Who is this book for?
- Readers who enjoy domestic thrillers centered around family secrets and dysfunctional relationships would likely appreciate this book.
- It would appeal to those who prefer fast-paced, easy-to-read stories with multiple POVs and don't mind predictable plots if the journey is entertaining.
- Fans of 90s nostalgia and small-town settings in their thrillers might also find elements to enjoy.
- This book could be a good fit for readers who like exploring themes of addiction, grief, and sibling dynamics in their fiction, even if the treatment is somewhat surface-level.
Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?
- This book would likely disappoint readers seeking a complex, unpredictable thriller with deep character development.
- Those who prefer subtle writing with less exposition and more subtext would find the style frustrating.
- Readers looking for truly likable characters or expecting a high level of suspense and mystery might be let down.
- Additionally, experienced thriller readers or those who enjoy more literary fiction might find the writing style too simplistic and the use of clichés off-putting.
- Anyone hoping for a fresh, original take on the family secrets trope may find this too formulaic and predictable for their tastes.
Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book
- Fast-paced and suspenseful domestic thriller
- Intriguing premise with siblings uncovering family secrets via old VHS tapes
- Multiple POVs provide a comprehensive view of the story
- Explores heavy themes like addiction, death, and grief in a personal way
- Easy, simplistic writing style makes it a quick read
- Short chapters allow for easy binge-reading
- Compelling family dynamics and sibling rivalry
- Adrenaline-pumping climax and satisfying conclusion
- Gradually building tension and plot-charging drama
- Nostalgic 90s pop culture references in flashback chapters
Things people didn't like as much about this book
- Highly predictable plot with an obvious twist
- Underdeveloped, one-dimensional characters
- Lack of likeable characters
- Excessive exposition and explanation, leaving little to reader interpretation
- More family drama than thriller, with limited suspense or mystery
- Melodramatic at times
- Repetitive conversations and conflicts between siblings
- Slow pacing for much of the book before the climax
- Overuse of clichés and platitudes
- Simplistic writing style that may feel immature for adult thriller readers
