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3.9 AVERAGE
3.9 AVERAGE
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
fast-paced
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
challenging
emotional
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
This book didn't quite live up to my expectations, and there are a few reasons why. I understand it was inspired by real events, but my review is purely based on the fictional aspects, which the author confirmed make up the majority of the story.
Throughout the book, I found myself constantly questioning the decisions of several characters; their actions often struck me as unbelievably foolish. It's problematic when a 12-year-old girl emerges as the bravest, smartest, and most compelling character, especially when the narrative follows multiple adults. The kidnappers, in my opinion, were dim-witted, and their plan seemed destined to fail from the start. The bus driver, who became one of the hostages and was the only adult present, proved to be completely useless from the outset. I also had an issue with the mother of one of the kidnapped children; her actions, despite her key role in the story, made me believe that different choices could have resolved the situation much sooner.
Ultimately, the book unfolded exactly as I anticipated. It lacked any significant twists, surprises, or substantial elements that would have elevated it beyond a basic thriller. It was a by-the-book read that left me wanting much more.
Throughout the book, I found myself constantly questioning the decisions of several characters; their actions often struck me as unbelievably foolish. It's problematic when a 12-year-old girl emerges as the bravest, smartest, and most compelling character, especially when the narrative follows multiple adults. The kidnappers, in my opinion, were dim-witted, and their plan seemed destined to fail from the start. The bus driver, who became one of the hostages and was the only adult present, proved to be completely useless from the outset. I also had an issue with the mother of one of the kidnapped children; her actions, despite her key role in the story, made me believe that different choices could have resolved the situation much sooner.
Ultimately, the book unfolded exactly as I anticipated. It lacked any significant twists, surprises, or substantial elements that would have elevated it beyond a basic thriller. It was a by-the-book read that left me wanting much more.
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
N/A
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Content Warnings
Graphic: Physical abuse, Kidnapping, Murder
medium-paced
There was no mystery therefore no tension to this story.
this book played a movie in my head - feeling very lifetime. I loved the way this book flowed, and thought it was super easy to get into. I really enjoyed the four different POV’s through this as I thought it really rounded out the story. this book being based off of a true story makes this read even more interesting!