PLOT & PACING
The setup moves slowly, bogged down by over-detailed scenes and little plot momentum. But around the halfway mark (page ~180), the pieces begin to lock into place, driving toward a more engaging—and even educational—reveal.

CHARACTER & VOICE
Jewell populates this novel with damaged, complicated characters, but few are easy to root for. The misogyny, selfishness, and questionable choices make for a difficult cast. Still, by the end, some key characters undergo meaningful change, which salvages part of the journey.

STYLE & ATMOSPHERE
Jewell’s prose is straightforward, with enough atmospheric detail to set the scene without becoming lyrical. At times, the focus on grit and discomfort outweighs the narrative drive.

THEMES & DEPTH
This is where the novel succeeds: it tackles issues of sexual violence, predatory behavior, and gendered power imbalances. While uncomfortable, it forces readers to confront these realities, and the ending provides a sliver of growth and reflection.

PERSONAL TAKE
The first half was a slog, and I nearly set it aside. But pushing through paid off—the second half proved much stronger. I didn’t love this book, but I’m glad I finished it; it reminded me that sometimes character growth and thematic weight only reveal themselves after patience.