xsummer_readsx's reviews
130 reviews

As always I kept track of my predictions for the story. I had one correct and I tried too hard to guess the twist with some wild theories. It was a fast-paced story and a decent listen. I had an inkling who may have been behind the disappearance but I wasn't too sure and I should have trusted my gut.

Of McFadden's work, I think this book is quickly taking a top spot for one of my favorites. This time I didn't have a any idea what was going to turn out and I was completely blindsided by the twist. Something I have noticed that is a common theme in these books is the mention of someone who is so pretty she doesn't need to wear makeup while talking down on people who choose to do so, and the "I drink black coffee because I'm not weak like those who need cream and sugar" I am so tired of these tropes in books. Otherwise, I loved this book and was shocked about 95% through the book. There are two characters I thought might have been the same person but I could not have been more wrong

I almost DNF'd this book but it was recommended based on other books I'd read and saw it popping up on other reader's lists. I got through the book but the whole time I was very annoyed by the actions of the characters, namely Chloe and her father. Chloe is a typical gaslighting narcissist meanwhile her father excuses her behavior and treats Jo poorly. I flagged this review for spoilers and if you clicked on it despite that, here is another spoiler warning:


Chloe is constantly exhibiting unwell behaviors. Her father can tell she's lying. He knows what she's done in the past, yet he jumps at the chance to demean his new wife whenever Chloe presents one of her lies. Why wouldn't he have her readmitted into a ward?? Why was she always with Roxanne? Does Roxanne know the type of person Chloe is? There is so much of this book that wasn't clear to me. It almost feels like rage bait. It was obvious from the beginning Chloe was guilty and jealous of anyone who got close to her father. And the only person in Jo's life that cared about her fully was Shelly. She believed her when she spoke off all the happenings since Chloe moved in and told Jo to trust her gut. If they had been able to get Chloe out of the house I still suspect Jo and Richard would have had a divorce in just a few years.

I really liked this book. I have the paperback but I chose to listen to the audiobook recording and I don't regret it! They used a full cast and great sound design. Being able to hear the phone calls with that tinny sound added to the immersion. The story itself continued to draw me in; leaving breadcrumbs throughout that would come into play at the very end when the full story reveals itself. I do have a least favorite event in the book but I won't post it here as it would be a spoiler. I recommend this book to the true crime and thriller fans.


PS The teen dialogue didn't have the cringe factor that can occur when an author tries to sound "hip" or "young" which is much appreciated!

I have avoided watching the movie so I could experience the book first. For those of us who also stayed away for as long as we could I will avoid spoiling the storyline, but I must admit I am equal parts in awe and disgusted by Amy. Sometimes I don't understand her actions and other times I'm just impressed by her forethought, determination. She has an aspiring work ethic. She sets her mind to something and knows no bounds. Her wit astounds me yet I don't want to root for her. She is so cunning though naïve which shows in her time in rural Missouri. Alright I'm trying very hard not to spoil anything so I'll stop while I'm ahead. If you have the chance, please read the book or watch the movie.

I was not as enthralled with this work of Freida’s, as I have been with some of her other ones. Parts of the story felt very similar to the coworker, which I enjoyed a lot more than this one

I'm a sucker for a murder mystery and psychological thriller. But this was longer than it needed to be. I think this could have been a book half the length. There was so much prattling on, usually Hannah's inner monologue. Which became repetitive. I was wrong about whom the killer was; that is to say there was great misdirection as is customary for stories of this kind. I really wish it wasn't such a slow pace until the last 5% of the book. I listened to the audiobook at 3x speed and it still took me much too long to finish.

The book started off very strong with difficult imagery. I thought maybe I wouldn't be able to make it through. I am glad I stuck it out. The book hits much harder if you survived CSA and have been affected by addiction, whether your own or someone else's. Many times I caught myself crying and applying the situations to my own life and the relationships I have with my abusers and family members. If you are sensitive to some topics being told with great detail I would maybe try to find some trigger warning for this one. Overall I enjoyed the book and I care deeply for these two sisters as if they are my own.