The tentative friendship [Bettina] develops with Eugenia is part character expansion, part thesis statement in an attempt at commentary on solidarity between women, and adds to a twisty plot. The execution of this thriller finds more success in the latter, a success largely due to subtle authorial machinations that drag everyone’s motivations—including Bettina’s—into question. Even seasoned thriller readers will find the open-ended conclusion spine-tingling.
Clunky dialogue, an obvious red herring that drives the plot, and an ending that shies away from the moral complexities Bett seemed poised to confront detract from the central puzzle ... An also-ran in the crowded YA mystery/thriller space.
