A 1950s murder mystery filled with family secrets, a suspected serial killer, and a 12-year-old boy portrayed as a monster, on paper, this book has all the makings of a gripping thriller. Unfortunately, it didn’t fully work for me.
While I appreciated the courtroom testimonies that framed the story and the suspenseful trial, I found the characters unlikable and difficult to connect with—including young Thomas. The novel attempts to capture the era’s atmosphere, but the 1950s setting didn’t feel immersive. At times, the pacing dragged, and I struggled to stay engaged. However, I did enjoy the twist at the end, which added an extra layer of intrigue.
I know many readers loved this book, so it might just be a case of “it’s not you, it’s me.” If you enjoy psychological thrillers with a courtroom drama element, it may still be worth checking out.