Book Review: What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena
From the moment I heard about What Have You Done?, I was buzzing with excitement. Shari Lapena has a remarkable way of weaving together intricate plots filled with suspense, mystery, and the kind of character dynamics that keep you guessing until the very last page. As a devoted fan, I eagerly anticipated this latest offering, especially with its haunting premise set in the quiet town of Fairhill, Vermont, where the peace is shattered by the shocking death of teenager Diana Brewer.
Diving into this story, I was immediately struck by the themes of community and the hidden darkness within familiar spaces. The small-town setting resonated with me, evoking that classic atmosphere where everyone knows each other—or at least thinks they do. The investigation into Diana’s death unfolds like a tangled web, as the characters are drawn into a world of suspicion and secrets.
However, I found myself somewhat overwhelmed by the sheer number of characters introduced throughout the story. While Lapena’s An Unwanted Guest deftly utilized its ensemble in a confined hotel, this felt a bit sprawling. It was challenging to keep track of who related to Diana and their ever-shifting friendships and enmities. This complexity occasionally pulled me out of the narrative, making me wish for a bit more clarity amidst the chaos.
Another notable element was the narrative choice to include Diana’s ghostly point of view in some sections. While I appreciate the creative endeavor, I struggled to understand its purpose, particularly as she herself was oblivious to her killer. Though it added an eerie layer, I felt it didn’t quite contribute to the story in a meaningful way.
On a brighter note, I was intrigued by the darker tone that Lapena explored. Tackling sensitive subjects with a deft touch is no easy feat, and she surely succeeded here, capturing the raw emotions and tensions within this close-knit community. The writing style remains as addictive as always, with quick chapters that had me flipping pages with gusto. Even when the story became repetitive in the middle, the pacing kept the adrenaline flowing.
However, the resolution felt a tad rushed. The build-up to the climax was engaging, yet the conclusion seemed to abruptly slam the door shut, leaving me wanting more answers. I often find myself yearning for a little more resolution, especially after investing so much in a story’s characters and conflicts.
What I Liked:
- Quick, compelling chapters that make it hard to put the book down.
- Lapena’s engaging writing style that effortlessly draws readers in.
- The emotional rollercoaster that left me feeling deeply connected to the characters.
What I Didn’t Like:
- An overabundance of characters created confusion.
- Repetitive sections that could have been more tightly edited.
- An abrupt ending that felt too hasty for my liking.
Ultimately, though What Have You Done? may not rank as my absolute favorite from Lapena, it’s still an enjoyable read—especially if you’re looking for a quick thriller to devour over the weekend. For fans of suspenseful tales steeped in small-town intrigue, this book won’t disappoint. I would recommend it to those who appreciate Lapena’s style and aren’t afraid of a story that stirs up emotions and keeps you on your toes.
In closing, thank you, Ms. Lapena, for enriching my vocabulary with the word "hubris." I look forward to whatever twists and turns you take us on next! I’ll be rating this one a solid 3.5 stars.
