Who is this book for?
- Readers who enjoy literary fiction with elements of mystery and thriller will likely appreciate this book.
- Those who like character-driven stories that explore trauma, friendship, and resilience over long periods of time will find a lot to love.
- Fans of atmospheric small-town settings and beautifully crafted prose will be drawn in by the evocative writing.
- Readers who don't mind longer books and are willing to invest in a slower-paced, emotionally heavy story will be rewarded by the depth of character development and unexpected twists.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- This book may not appeal to readers looking for a fast-paced thriller or those who prefer shorter, more tightly plotted novels.
- Readers who are sensitive to depictions of trauma or prefer lighter subject matter may find the consistently dark tone challenging.
- Those who struggle with non-linear timelines or multiple perspectives may have difficulty following the story.
- Readers who need highly realistic plots or dislike having to suspend disbelief may be frustrated by some of the more implausible elements.
- The literary style and slower pacing may not work for those seeking a straightforward genre read.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Beautiful and evocative writing
- Complex and well-developed main characters (Patch and Saint)
- Emotionally powerful story spanning decades
- Excellent portrayal of trauma's long-term effects
- Compelling mystery/thriller elements
- Strong themes of friendship, love, and resilience
- Atmospheric small-town setting
- Unexpected plot twists and revelations
- Satisfying and emotional ending
- Short chapters make for quick pacing
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Very long at over 600 pages, could have been trimmed
- Slow pacing, especially in the middle section
- Too many characters and subplots for some readers
- Requires suspension of disbelief for some plot points
- Shifts in time and perspective can be confusing
- Overly descriptive writing in parts
- Some found the characters' actions unrealistic
- Religious overtones bothered some readers
- Depressing tone throughout with little levity
- Not enough focus on the central mystery for thriller fans
