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A review by x_miss_mcrae_x
The First Girl by Claire McGowan
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Up until 10 years ago, Karen Walker was the best friend of notorious serial killer The Bagman, aka Aaron Hughes, until her evidence sent him to prison. Now, a girl has gone missing, and with the only clue being the Bagman symbol, Karen must return home to discover the truth.
I must admit the plot reeled me straight in, and it was a thoroughly entertaining ride. It was interesting to read a mixture of extracts from both Karen's memoir and present-day POV, although it's clear (she admits this) from the start that she is a VERY unreliable narrator. The story did drag slightly in the beginning, but once the drama kicks in, it doesn't stop! Almost none of the characters are likeable, but i really liked how true crime sleuths were added into the mix, and I would have liked to have seen a bit more of that. Plus i do enjoy rooting for the "bad guy" for a little while😂 Overall it was a gripping read, full of suspense, and I'm so glad i had the readalong group to chat to because it was a thrilling mind f**k, (in a good way, if there is such a thing), and my head would of probably exploded with theories😅
I must admit the plot reeled me straight in, and it was a thoroughly entertaining ride. It was interesting to read a mixture of extracts from both Karen's memoir and present-day POV, although it's clear (she admits this) from the start that she is a VERY unreliable narrator. The story did drag slightly in the beginning, but once the drama kicks in, it doesn't stop! Almost none of the characters are likeable, but i really liked how true crime sleuths were added into the mix, and I would have liked to have seen a bit more of that. Plus i do enjoy rooting for the "bad guy" for a little while😂 Overall it was a gripping read, full of suspense, and I'm so glad i had the readalong group to chat to because it was a thrilling mind f**k, (in a good way, if there is such a thing), and my head would of probably exploded with theories😅
Graphic: Murder
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Toxic relationship, Kidnapping, Stalking, Toxic friendship, and Injury/Injury detail