I could feel some level of sympathy and understanding for most of the characters in this family even as they hurt each other or cave to their weaknesses. They were all given the depth to show where their dysfunctions and their faults come from and why they still care for each other. Their family dynamic and behavior felt realistic even in the more extreme circumstances— potential murder, hidden bodies, and all. Even though she was something of an antagonist in portions of the book and certainly could have been a better parent, I found myself especially enjoying Joseph's family mother’s, Elise’s, character and relationships.
The mystery aspect took more of a backseat than I was expecting based on the early reveal of the body in the attic and suspicion of foul play, however, I enjoyed the family drama we got as well.
The pacing was rather slow-moving and the mood reflective, but it was still fairly easy to get into and was a quick read for me.
The mystery aspect took more of a backseat than I was expecting based on the early reveal of the body in the attic and suspicion of foul play, however, I enjoyed the family drama we got as well.
The pacing was rather slow-moving and the mood reflective, but it was still fairly easy to get into and was a quick read for me.