Captivating and engrossing debut thriller!
First of all, this Texan is delighted to read a Texas writer's debut (partially) set in my home state! Both point-of-view characters are fully realized and relatable high school students. Gabe may project a tough demeanor, yet that facade only makes him more appealing to his manipulative girlfriend Sasha as a tool to aggravate her parents. The conflict between his attraction to her and a very clear sense that their relationship is not healthy makes him not just sympathetic, but realistic. We can all remember the struggle of satisfying our wants and curiosity with what's actually best for ourselves. Their relationship also has a dangerous, reckless edge that brims with tension. The first few chapters don't tip their hand as to exactly what misfortune might befall Gabe, but it's clear that something bad will come from his dating Sasha eventually.
Meanwhile, a seemingly disconnected plot with Elyse unfurls in the Pacific Northwest. A little quieter and shyer than Gabe, she's struggling to accept that her audition for the school play really was better than that of her best friend and theater buff Brynn. Her tentative strides towards confidence make her perspective a nice counterpoint to the more dramatic early developments in Gabe. Given the promise of a massive twist, however, I'm both scared and excited to see how Brynn's current happiness might be disrupted as the book goes on. This sneak peek was definitely too short and I'm already dying to read the rest of the story!
Meanwhile, a seemingly disconnected plot with Elyse unfurls in the Pacific Northwest. A little quieter and shyer than Gabe, she's struggling to accept that her audition for the school play really was better than that of her best friend and theater buff Brynn. Her tentative strides towards confidence make her perspective a nice counterpoint to the more dramatic early developments in Gabe. Given the promise of a massive twist, however, I'm both scared and excited to see how Brynn's current happiness might be disrupted as the book goes on. This sneak peek was definitely too short and I'm already dying to read the rest of the story!