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3.69 AVERAGE
3.69 AVERAGE
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
Fun and true to its title. I might’ve liked this better if there’s less focus on Chapel House and Sam, and more on the mystery instead. The fact that everyone, even the adults, seems to hate Annie could’ve been expanded upon, but it wasn’t so it felt underdeveloped. Loved Annie as a protagonist though.
I had so much fun reading this book. BUT, a lot of details were missed and i have a lot of unanswered questions!! The ending was kind of predictable too and there were moments where I feel like the author was kid of lost— like she’s unsure what to tell us next and it bothered me quite a bit.
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
relaxing
fast-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
Solid plot and a fun mystery, but I cringed nearly every time the characters spoke. Definitely for the young adult crowd, but a decent read overall.
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book is a gripping and darkly humorous debut that takes readers on a thrilling ride with Annie Lane, a murder victim back from the grave, hellbent on uncovering her killer and exacting revenge. This fast-paced thriller masterfully blends elements of horror and feminism, resulting in a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
Annie Lane is unapologetically brash, and while she starts off as a seemingly unlikeable character, her relentless drive for justice and her raw, unfiltered personality gradually make her someone readers can’t help but root for. The initial distaste for her abrasive nature gives way to admiration for her tenacity and resilience. Crowley’s skillful characterization makes Annie’s journey compelling, turning her quest for vengeance into a cathartic experience for the reader.
The novel’s central mystery—who killed Annie and why—serves as the driving force behind the story. Crowley keeps the tension high and the plot moving swiftly, with each revelation and twist deepening the intrigue. Annie's interactions with the other townspeople, each as flawed and vivid as she is, add layers to the narrative and keep the reader guessing until the very end.
One notable aspect of the book is its language. The frequent use of bad language is not to everyone's taste, but it undeniably adds authenticity to Annie's character and the gritty environment of the town. It paints a vivid picture of a place and people hardened by their circumstances, enhancing the story’s raw and unfiltered tone. While the coarse language might be off-putting to some, it ultimately serves a purpose, contributing to the darkly comedic and fiercely feminist undertones of the novel. Annie’s profanity-laden tirades and the blunt dialogue of the townspeople underscore the book’s critique of societal norms and the treatment of “unlikeable” girls.
This book stands out not just for its thrilling plot, but for its bold take on gender dynamics and societal expectations. Annie is a protagonist who, despite—or perhaps because of—her flaws, embodies a powerful statement about taking control of her narrative and seeking justice on her own terms.
This book is a darkly satisfying thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat while offering a biting commentary on societal judgment. It’s a must-read for those who enjoy their mysteries served with a side of horror and a strong dose of feminist fury. There were a couple of unanswered questions I have, but I would still recommend it.
Annie Lane is unapologetically brash, and while she starts off as a seemingly unlikeable character, her relentless drive for justice and her raw, unfiltered personality gradually make her someone readers can’t help but root for. The initial distaste for her abrasive nature gives way to admiration for her tenacity and resilience. Crowley’s skillful characterization makes Annie’s journey compelling, turning her quest for vengeance into a cathartic experience for the reader.
The novel’s central mystery—who killed Annie and why—serves as the driving force behind the story. Crowley keeps the tension high and the plot moving swiftly, with each revelation and twist deepening the intrigue. Annie's interactions with the other townspeople, each as flawed and vivid as she is, add layers to the narrative and keep the reader guessing until the very end.
One notable aspect of the book is its language. The frequent use of bad language is not to everyone's taste, but it undeniably adds authenticity to Annie's character and the gritty environment of the town. It paints a vivid picture of a place and people hardened by their circumstances, enhancing the story’s raw and unfiltered tone. While the coarse language might be off-putting to some, it ultimately serves a purpose, contributing to the darkly comedic and fiercely feminist undertones of the novel. Annie’s profanity-laden tirades and the blunt dialogue of the townspeople underscore the book’s critique of societal norms and the treatment of “unlikeable” girls.
This book stands out not just for its thrilling plot, but for its bold take on gender dynamics and societal expectations. Annie is a protagonist who, despite—or perhaps because of—her flaws, embodies a powerful statement about taking control of her narrative and seeking justice on her own terms.
This book is a darkly satisfying thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat while offering a biting commentary on societal judgment. It’s a must-read for those who enjoy their mysteries served with a side of horror and a strong dose of feminist fury. There were a couple of unanswered questions I have, but I would still recommend it.
I read this in one sitting, drawn in immediately and unable to put it down. I would read so many more books about this gang of sort-of ghosts. (…especially if Sam’s in them.)
dark
mysterious
tense
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
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Loveable characters:
Yes
I'm really looking forward to reading more from Codie Crowley! I found her on TikTok and was so excited for this book. The story feels like such a fresh take on such an important topic. Great world-building, too!