DNF.

I went into this blind. But when I read the first "chapter" for Try A Chapter I knew I had to pick this up and read it ASAP. I had questions from chapter one. I needed answers. I did think going in blind helped make me more intrigued by that chapter. Due to this I predicted a possible four star read.
As I went in blind I was confused for a moment when Elissa POV started. I didn't know why she was important to the story. But after some chess tournament action that I really didn't care about, something happened that made me wonder more how she connects with Elijah.
I found myself caring less as I got through this. I felt for the characters held captive but something was missing for me to really stay interested.
Mairéad POV just did nothing for me. I get why it was there. But I just preferred reading Elissa and Elijah POV instead. Until part two. Where it makes the story work so much better. You learn much more about the history.
At around 60% the atmosphere felt more dark and intense. As if from nowhere. Suddenly I found myself more intrigued. I had no idea what was happening which I liked.
The ending itself wasn't what I expected. In fact I don't know what I expected. But at the same time it was messy in a way, so much was happening. You had so much to take in at once I felt a little confused until I sat and thought about it once I finished.

I didn't know anything about this going in. I just saw it was a Reese Witherspoon book club pick. Then I was offered an Arc and decided to give it a go.
After reading the synopsis I was interested.
Despite feeling like it would be a quick read I quickly realised I just didn't care or like the main characters. I read the first 25% in the first sitting. When I was finished that part I knew I would dislike this book. Since its character driven and I didn't like any of them.
Each character has issues. Serious issues. But the writing felt very light compared to the issues at hand.
The casual bodyshaming early on kind of annoyed me.
I found myself skim reading this then at 60% I just decided to give up. I was not liking anything. Which is a shame

I went into this intrigued. However despite starting off somewhat strong I soon lost interest.
I needed something more I felt not enough had happened by 40%. Which is where I decided to DNF. I couldn't force myself to carry on reading.
I felt like I had figured things out early on and had no interest in finding out if I was right or not.