If I could describe this story in one word, it would be the letter Z. This book had so many twists and turns. I kept trying to guess what they would be; I was wrong most of the time. Rachel Hawkins kept me guessing.
The characters are relatable (or at least understandable), smart and funny. How Jane and Eddie met is cute. Their chemistry is electric. She has secrets, and so does he. There is a hint of what is to come at the midpoint.
Jane is a dog walker escaping her past while trying to class climb the old-fashioned–a rich single man.
Eddie is an affluent and alleged widower with a past of his own that on the surface seems innocuous.
And John Rivers is an annoying opportunist who preys on single women in a bind.
These three characters together make for a great thriller, that is–if Rachel Hawkins is writing it. The pace of this book was perfect; I was never bored. The way the characters conversed with each other and the plot, kept me engaged. The short length of this story made me hesitant that it could be interesting. Boy was I wrong.
I love the small town trope. How everyone knows everyone, and is always in each others’ business served well. I don’t know much about Alabama, but for it to be the setting, gave the story a different feel. It’s not the typical book setting and it worked.
I have never read the classic novel, Jane Erye by Charlotte Bronte. This story was inspired by it and updated with an Alabama setting and 21st century themes to fit in the Southern Gothic subgenre. I highly recommend this story.
Junkie 4 A Story 