My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is one of those books that takes you away so completely that you totally forget about reality. The twisty storyline lulled me into its clutches until I questioned everything. I don’t know why I fell so hard into this book, but I loved it! The plot is so clever and well crafted. The driving momentum is for washed up, investigative reporter Scott McGrath to uncover the truth behind the death of Ashley Cordova, the daughter of a controversial horror film maker and recluse. Don’t let anyone tell you much more about the plot! This is a book you don’t want to ruin with spoilers.
The mystery surrounding the Cordova family is brilliant, dark and imaginative. I was totally captivated by the way it all unfolded. There’s so much I want to say… but I don’t want to ruin your experience. I’ll just say I wish I could go back and read it again for the first time. I’ve read a lot of books this year and this is one of my favorites because I’ve never read anything like it. I also really loved Scott’s unlikely sidekicks- especially bad-boy Hopper.
This book is a hefty read, but all the details add another rich dimension to this story, making it come alive. I don’t really like things that deal with horror so I was a little leery that this might tread in areas I don’t like, but I didn’t find it to be that way at all. It was definitely eerie and there’s a few harder topic matters, so sensitive readers beware. This would be a great book to read around Halloween. There’s also a lot to discuss, so it would be a fun Book Club book.
I listened to the audio version and thought it was delivered brilliantly. Now I’m excited to read Marisha Pessl’s other book! I loved her writing! I have no idea how she came up with this plot. Seriously, it was crazy and brilliant. LOVED IT!