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nuha_hassan 's review for:

Friends with Secrets by Christine Gunderson
3.75

Thank you Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.

I was pleasantly surprised by this book being Christine Gunderson's debut novel. The book explores the myths of the 'perfect mother' and the bonds between female friendships with its central characters Ainsley and Nikki. Both of these characters have secrets. Most importantly, the book is also about the consequences of keeping secrets from people.

I think the story is interesting. I was drawn to Ainsley and Nikki's characteristics, especially the former who had a stronger background and story. Through her character, I got to understand society's deep stigma around sex work and how when women are part of this line of work, they are constantly being ridiculed. The investigative aspect was well-written. Everything concluded perfectly, although I did think that the ending was a bit rushed.