tashreads2manybooks's Reviews (1.06k)

I loved the vast majority of this book. It wasn't really about a killer clown, it was about childhood and friendship and adventure. It was about facing your fears and retaining your innocence. The magic is real.

It would have been five stars if not for a really disturbing and totally unnecessary part near the end - the way out (if you have read it you will know of which I speak).

3.5 stars. I went into this expecting to be blown away, and in this case it was the high expectations that probably led to disappointment. It was a page turning, easy read, but I feel more could have been done with 'the haunting presence.' I also wish more time was spent with the Idlewild girls because I found them fascinating. It was nothing I hadn't seen before. I fear I am becoming a jaded thriller reader. Maybe a break from the genre?

Kristin Hannah - the queen of emotional manipulation - has done it again. I cried. Congratulations Ms Hannah on making me feel the feelings. I was going to give this 5 stars, but then it went on... and on.. and then it went on some more. There was a perfect ending to this novel and it should have stopped there. But all in all a lovely story with big heart.

DNF @ 50% No, I just can't. This reads like Jurassic Park fan fiction, with all the usual tropes - beautiful yet damaged (only slightly) heroine who somehow manages to pull an Indiana Jones and saves her little party from some ferocious creatures hell bent on human blood. There is zero character development, dialogue reads like a very cheesy movie script and the story line is basically the same scene on repeat. Dragon-EEk-RUN-Fight/Hide-Phew-that was a close one! Oh dear Mr X didn't make it (insert cheesy throwaway line here).

Very one dimensional - very not for me. But hey, I don't think Mr. Reilly cares too much what I think, he sells and laughs all the way to the bank. And good for him i say...

3.5 stars. I listened to this audiobook, and I didn't really like the narrator. Think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read it.

I went into this with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed the writing and the characters. It felt like a different take on the domestic thriller, not so formulated and predictable.

I loved everything about this. Definitely one of my favourite books of the year.

This is a beautiful, sorrowful, devastating read. And that last page... wow. The imagery was haunting and the characters vivid and real.