I really enjoyed this book! Mysteries are often hit or miss with me, and this one was definitely a hit, for a few reasons. I shall list them!
- I really liked the characters. Tessa had been through a lot in her life, so coming back to town to visit her dying father in prison was just another crappy hand that life was dealing her. I loved that her friendship with Callie was something that had been so special to her, even if they hadn't managed to keep it together. Knowing how much she cared just made Tessa more likeable in general. And while I wasn't a fan of Callie at first, I warmed up to her. Also, Callie's mom was the best. More moms like her in YA, please and thank you! I loved that Tessa had such a strong relationship with her, especially since she had so many dysfunctional relationships in life.
- The plot was awesome. First, I am kind of a sucker for a Dateline-esque serial killer story, and this totally fit the bill. The story unfolded slowly, but not too slowly- just enough that things were being learned at a good pace. The beginning was a bit slow, and it did take me a little time to warm up to Tessa (and definitely Callie), but that was really more of a minor hiccup. As the story unfolded more, there was never too much downtime, the pacing was really wonderful.
- I absolutely did not guess how this would turn out! Nor did I guess how many twists there would be! It was great, because just when I thought I knew where the story was headed, NOPE, I was so wrong! I was guessing and on the edge of my seat until the very end.
Bottom Line: After a bit of a slow start, I ended up really enjoying- and being surprised by- this twisty book!
**Copy provided for review