beauty_andbooks's reviews
532 reviews

I think I’m learning this author is just not for me. I started this book for bookclub and then didn’t finish it in time, but I don’t allow myself to dnf so I kept going. It was interesting but I’m just not a huge paranormal fan. The suspense was good though and I did like the character’s plot and actions. It was good I guess.

Also reminder that I’m in the worst slump of my life so my ratings are always more negatively affected by that.

As a former fan of 19 Kids and Counting, this was a highly anticipated read for me. I had first heard of this book release the day the 19 Kids documentary/tell-all released on Amazon prime. It was “fun” for me to read knowing all the scenes Jill was referring to, but obviously none of the content was fun. Especially for Jill and those she loves. This was really well done and a super quick read. 

TW: sexual assault/abuse/child abuse

What I liked:
✔️unique thriller-type plot that I’ve never really read before 
✔️loved the flashback story lines 
✔️majority of characters were interesting and enjoyable to read 

What I didn’t like:
❌I struggled with remembering the dates of the flashbacks, but you can blame my slow reading pace for that one😂

What I liked: 
✔️The multiple timelines were great!! Especially when the past timeline was told by the perspective of multiple people.
✔️The history aspect of the maps’ histories. I now know more about maps😂
✔️the settings were fun and described really well 

What I didn’t like: 
✖️I still struggle with magical realism. I suppose I’m just too realistic lol
✖️Wasn’t in love with the main protagonist

Good insight into what goes through Gypsy Rose’s head about the situation. I’ve seen countless docs and shows about the crime but for once I’m hearing from the source. I’m looking forward to her future memoir, since this is marketed as a sneak preview. Very quick read. Read it in like an hour. Really good insight into trauma. I am still confused on how I feel overall about Gypsy’s actions. This book didn’t help me much on that front.

What I liked:
✔️dark at the end and I wanted more of it
✔️I liked the family dynamics 
✔️as a good friend on IG said, hereditary vibes 
✔️I actually liked the ambiguous ending because I figured it out correctly 😂

What I didn’t like:
✖️the dreams. Boring
✖️the animal plot line of Black Mamba. Not spooky enough

Honestly I’ll make this short. I don’t like bashing books. But I’ve forgotten the plot and it’s only been 20 days. That’s telling. The only thing I remember is the use of mental illness as a reason for someone’s questionable actions. Not a fan of that. Ok I’m done