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marvsbooks's review against another edition
emotional
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
This was a good, twisty read. Not my favorite of the year—but overall enjoyable.
I didn’t understand why there were two storylines that didn’t ever actually intersect in a meaningful way. I’m sure some would argue that the level of sacrifice shown is a “meaningful way”—but I went into this expecting a suspenseful read, and the secondary storyline didn’t add anything to the primary story with that in mind. I think if I had gone into it thinking that it was a family saga, the secondary storyline would have felt more relevant.
I also thought there were holes in the POV’s. We heard a lot from Bev, but very little about what her actions meant to any of her children. We didn’t see closure for June in terms of finding out the truth, and we abandoned David midway through the story.
I really liked the premise of this story, but was just a little underwhelmed with the execution. I would read other books from this author!
I didn’t understand why there were two storylines that didn’t ever actually intersect in a meaningful way. I’m sure some would argue that the level of sacrifice shown is a “meaningful way”—but I went into this expecting a suspenseful read, and the secondary storyline didn’t add anything to the primary story with that in mind. I think if I had gone into it thinking that it was a family saga, the secondary storyline would have felt more relevant.
I also thought there were holes in the POV’s. We heard a lot from Bev, but very little about what her actions meant to any of her children. We didn’t see closure for June in terms of finding out the truth, and we abandoned David midway through the story.
I really liked the premise of this story, but was just a little underwhelmed with the execution. I would read other books from this author!
reader550's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
andykrahling's review
4.0
I quite enjoyed this. The timelines were a little confusing for me, but I got over it quickly. There were several unexpected twists, which were much appreciated. One of the twists for me was a total dud, but I won't spoil the fun. All in all, this was a pretty good read, and I would read more from the author.
I really enjoyed the wine terminology and knowledge which was sprinkled throughout the book.
I received a complimentary copy of the novel from the publisher and NetGalley, and my review is being given freely.
When oh when is somebody going to allow reviewers to choose half or quarter stars? It can't be that difficult, and would allow for a much more precise rating.
I really enjoyed the wine terminology and knowledge which was sprinkled throughout the book.
I received a complimentary copy of the novel from the publisher and NetGalley, and my review is being given freely.
When oh when is somebody going to allow reviewers to choose half or quarter stars? It can't be that difficult, and would allow for a much more precise rating.
nlestage's review against another edition
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
aaliya87's review against another edition
challenging
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Unhinged. The plot reveal is left until the epilogue.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Infidelity, Grief, Gaslighting, and Alcohol
Moderate: Rape, Toxic relationship, Stalking, Murder, and Sexual harassment
jenniferjreads's review against another edition
3.5
I enjoyed reading this but was not a fan of Bev, the mother in law. I found her to be a bit shallow and selfish. She was so whiny and poor me boo who who.... She drove me nuts.
Had a couple of twists that I found eye opening especially how it ended. I did kind of guess what had happened but wasn't for sure until the end. I still found it to be a fun read and it did wrap up nicely which I loved because I hate stories that are open ended and don't tie up everything for the reader.
I would like to read more from Laurie Flynn!
Had a couple of twists that I found eye opening especially how it ended. I did kind of guess what had happened but wasn't for sure until the end. I still found it to be a fun read and it did wrap up nicely which I loved because I hate stories that are open ended and don't tie up everything for the reader.
I would like to read more from Laurie Flynn!
laurenslibraryreads's review against another edition
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
spogoh's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Twisty, wasn't expecting that!