Compelling Blend of Contemporary Drama and Eerie Thriller

This book kept my attention from page 1 to the end, though I must admit that the details of the opening murder was very disturbing; in addition, as an animal lover, I am, truly disturbed with the inclusion of animal abuse scenes. The characters were- mostly- believable, and the author found a perfect balance between a contemporary small-town-drama story and a frightening thriller. Even if readers have never lived or worked in a small town, this novel conveys the emotions of a setting that seeps into the fabric of one’s life. This is a home where you are enmeshed in the knowledge of everyone who dies, every financial struggle of town families, and every irritation of constant interaction with an ex-spouse that you’d prefer to forget you ever met.
The opening scenario of the skateboarding boys was so upsetting that I initially wondered if this book was really for me; it absolutely was ! I have recommended this book to my friends who can handle some disturbing elements in a thriller, and I would be interested in furture books by this author. Rounded up to a 5.