Ruby is back.  The neighborhood thought they had 20 quiet years ahead.  But her conviction was overturned, and she’s settled back in just like before the Truetts were murdered.  Now everyone is a buzz.  This idyllic, quaint community is upended.  Speculation.  Fear.  Anxiety.  Judgment.  A convicted murderer in their midst.  What does she want?  Why is she back?  But maybe the most pressing question should be…is she really the murderer?   

 

This is an easy to follow mystery, albeit a bit of a bumbling one.  Ultimately the wild assumptions and utter lack of logic exhibited by every single character detracted from my overall enjoyment.  If even one character had sought out factual information or asked a modicum of questions, the whole premise of this story would have unraveled.  Unfortunately, I think Miranda’s portrayal isn’t that off the mark.  In the social media age, it seems more people lead by assumption and less seek truth.

 

So… the lesson is a necessary one:  assuming the worst in others, judging people harshly…that almost always ends with devastating consequences.  That evil that lurks might not be a monster at all.  It might simply be the people next door with ill intentions and some gossip. 

 

Overall, this is a light, easy read.  The premise is interesting, and the lesson is one to take to heart.  

 

Thank you Megan Miranda, Simon & Schuster, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this book.