This is a "write the review then figure out the star rating" kind of situation. .

The good: this is a very easy and accessible read. Like a "shut off my brain a bit and enjoy the ride" kind of thriller. Easy to skim, pages turn quickly, suspense builds when it should build. This thriller remains engaging and fun to read.

The bad: the writing is a bit stiff with lots of familiar cliches or moments that remind you that you're reading (and not in a good way). The word "flicker" is overused a lot. The resolution is ultimately quite predictable and the red herrings are bright red.

The ugly: weird and illogical things happen and some inconsistencies jump out at me. A few other reviews mention the line about getting a PhD first and then a master's, or the fact that our main character has "separated herself from her past" in words but not at all in actions, and that several familiar tropes are overused. While a lot of the mental health stuff was questionable, I'd still compare it favourably to the Silent Patient (which I loathed).

Ultimately, this was a quick read and felt like watching a "straight to dvd" thriller. Comforting and engaging, but not novel or particularly memorable. With that, I think I'll settle for 2.5 stars rounded down.

Recommended if you don't mind being able to predict where the thriller goes, enjoyed the Silent Patient (can't relate but hey, it's widely popular), and are looking to be entertained.

More thoughts here: https://youtu.be/vMa3vzClYkA