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Book Review: The Neighbors by Hannah Mary McKinnon
Tuesday, May 22, 2018Brief synopsis: Abby's brother tragically died in a car wreck which she survived because of the kindness and bravery of a stranger, Nate, who is now her husband and father to their teenage daughter, Sarah. It's been over 20 years since the wreck, but it's something that still haunts Abby daily. When a family moves in next door, complete with happy husband and wife and a teenage son close to Sarah's age, the past comes creeping in closer to Abby, bringing up ideas and memories from before.
I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from The Neighbors. I'm a big fan of not actually reading novel synopses before reading the book and I'm so glad I didn't. I read the synopsis after I finished the book and I felt like it definitely gave too much information that would've ruined some of the shock factors within the story - which, granted, some were fairly easy to identify (which is totally fine, since they're in the synopsis anyways).
This book is full of twists and turns though. I really love a book that switches between different time periods, so you gradually find out the truth. I also enjoy books with chapters from alternating perspectives. This novel had both of those elements and they were done so well.
I wouldn't necessarily say this is a fast-paced thriller - it's more of a steady pace. But I don't mean that in a negative way. I very much enjoyed the novel and just felt really invested in the characters (even if I didn't necessarily condone their choices). While I understand Abby is the focal character of the entire story, I would have loved to see a bit more character development for the other characters, as well - especially Nancy and Zac (they're minor characters, but are still fairly important to the storyline).
Anyways, final thoughts are I really enjoyed The Neighbors, and it's definitely one I would recommend for quick, twisty read.
I received this novel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions, as always, are 100% my own.
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