The hook:
In the wake of a career disaster, Leah runs into her old friend Emmy, and the two decide to get a place together in quiet rural Pennsylvania. Leah gets a teaching position there, hoping to hide from her past. However, when Emmy vanishes, she begins unearthing disturbing secrets about her enigmatic friend. Did she really know Emmy at all?
My impressions:
As a dedicated fan of Megan Miranda’s work, I’m surprised it took me so long to get around to reading this book. In classic Miranda fashion, the characters and audience both are confronted with clues that challenge what they think they know, and as the story unfolds, it’s clear that you can’t assume anyone is telling the truth.
I must admit, I’m a big fan of this particular brand of mystery novel. The delicate midpoint between literary mysteries like Big Little Lies and old fashioned pulp detective stories, the sub genre Miranda inhabits is one of a tightrope act, balancing fast paced thrills with character arcs that would be just as at home in a much longer book. To maintain that kind of balance between dense, meaty narratives and the rollercoaster thrill casual and dedicated readers alike seek out takes a level of skill that is impressive.
As Emmy’s secrets unspool under the persistent tugging of Leah’s curiosity, readers are bound to find themselves tangled in the story and happy to be so. Readers who enjoy Ruth Ware and Megan Collins are bound to enjoy this twisty mystery.
Happy Reading!
Kat Pollock 