What would have happened if Gypsy Rose Blanchard hadn't had her mother killed? This book, very loosely, explores that scenario. The set-up is very reminiscent of this famous case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy, but even if you are not familiar with it, you will enjoy this thriller.

The story alternates between Rose Gold's life while her mother, Patty, has been put in prison following years of poisoning and abusing her daughter, and the weeks immediately following Patty's release from prison when she comes to live with Rose Gold. If you are familiar with the Blanchards, the main plot arcs of this story will be very familiar to you. There were even times when I forgot I was reading about a fictional family (not sure if this is really a good thing). But the plot twists are so obviously different, if a bit predictable.

While not an exceptional book by any means, I found the study of the mental health of both women really interesting. You find yourself naturally rooting for Rose Gold but Wrobel makes you question if you really *should* be rooting for her. If you like thrillers with interesting characters, this one is for you. It was a great distraction from current events for me!

3 stars