This one had me hooked from the start; missing kid, creepy orphanage, and a true crime writer who maybe gets a little too invested? Yes, please. The atmosphere is spot-on spooky, and I loved how the story weaves between the past and present. Alex is a flawed but interesting main character, and her obsession with the case felt believable (if a little over-the-top at times).

Some parts dragged a bit in the middle, and a few twists felt a little too perfectly timed, but overall, it kept me turning the pages. The ending definitely delivered some chills. A strong debut and a solid pick for anyone who likes their mysteries with a side of eerie small-town secrets.

Thank you to Bailey Seybolt, Atria Books, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ½  (3.5/5)

Author: Bailey Seybolt

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Publication Date: April 15, 2025