mmm I didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it either… one thing that andrea bartz does extremely well is the LGBTQ+ representation!! I really enjoy when queer characters are written as the norm, as they should be, and not centered in the story as the “standout queer character” 

when abby visits a small island outside mexico where her fiancée passed away, she discovers a town full of secrets, groupies & influence stretching wider than the tourists and gringos combined 👀 I loved getting to know the characters super well, and I found their characterization to be unique and fleshed out perfectly!!

the mystery of the story itself, what happened to eszter, was dragging for me. I knew the ultimate payout wouldn’t be an accident per se, but I doubted it was full of true nefarious intentions as abby feared. and abby herself constantly steamrolled over eszter in flashbacks, arguing with her about her introverted tendencies & her willingness to work with her father… 

there’s a difference between admiring someone and loving someone, and this story was a great example of that. however, the main plot didn’t really do it for me - especially when the secrets being kept were kind of silly being secrets to begin with 👀

thank you to ballantine books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!

rating: 3 stars
wine pairing: brazil chardonnay