Gillian Flynn has an impressive debut. Although a relatively short book, the unfolding of the story was very well done. The characters - even the sadistic ones - were three dimensional and seemed tangible. I loved the dialogue, especially between Adora and Camille; Adora's passive aggressive pointed remarks stung me with their ability to incapacitate and belittle. The plot was fashioned well, with good build up, although the end left me feeling a little rushed. With such a steady build up, it seemed the storm only lasted for a good fifteen pages. I was really dissatisfied by the lack of time taken to delve into Amma towards the end of the book; I thought her motivation(s) and psyche - especially considering what is discovered in the novel - were arguably more interesting than her mother's.

Nevertheless, the first three quarters of this book were stellar - if the ending had been paced a little better, it could have easily received a five star rating. Alas, the lack of a fully satisfying climax (it delivered, but not as fully as it could have) knocked it down a star, in my opinion. Definitely still worth the read.