Pretty Things A Novel

Reviewers largely praise the book as a dark, smart, and engaging thriller, packed with delicious twists and shocking revelations that keep readers on a heart-throbbing ride. Many found the narrative layered with turnarounds, making it hard to distinguish between hunter and prey, and enjoyed the subjective perceptions and multiple narration points of view which added depth and intrigue. The writing style is frequently described as smart, sarcastic, and compelling, with particular appreciation for the well-developed and complex characters. Even when characters possessed flaws or irritating attributes, many readers found themselves empathizing with their backstories and motivations, enjoying the intricate character studies. The atmospheric setting, particularly a creepy old mansion, also contributed positively to the overall experience. The audiobook narration, featuring multiple acclaimed voices, was highlighted as excellent and perfectly cast.

Despite the praise, a common criticism among reviewers concerns the book's pacing and length. Many felt it was a slow burn, especially in the first half, with extensive backstory and character development that occasionally halted the story's forward momentum. Some described these sections as "filler" and suggested the book could have benefited from tighter editing, potentially reducing its nearly 500-page length. While the latter half often picked up speed with more twists, a few readers found the ending to be less surprising or impactful than anticipated, describing it as somewhat forced or merely "okay" rather than stunning. Additionally, at least one reviewer found a particular point-of-view character to be unlikeable, narcissistic, and self-serving, which detracted from their immersion in the story. Some found the repeated recounting of events from different perspectives to be occasionally repetitive.

Overall, the book is considered an entertaining and clever read, with many reviewers finding it a satisfying and even brilliant experience despite its noted pacing issues. It is frequently described as a character-driven psychological suspense, offering a unique blend of misdirection, betrayal, and revenge. Readers who enjoy intricate character studies, stories with complex, flawed protagonists, and a "cat and mouse" dynamic where loyalties shift will likely find this book appealing. It is particularly recommended for those who appreciate thrillers with a focus on social commentary, such as the impact of social media and the disparity between different socio-economic backgrounds, and who don't mind a longer, slow-burning narrative that builds to its revelations. It is also noted as a good choice for escapist reading and those who enjoy authors like Gillian Flynn or Ruth Ware.