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Pepper's life has changed drastically since her mother's passing. Her brother, Red, is angry all the time. Still, he takes good care of his sister. He has to, as their father, Frank, is barely at home and working all the time. So Red takes it upon himself to act like a father figure to Pepper. One day, Pepper realizes that her brother has gone missing. Frank reports his disappearance to the police. Suddenly, the police show up and arrest Frank. They believe he is involved in his son's disappearance. Months later, Red's body is found, and Frank is officially charged with his murder. During Red's funeral, Pepper discovers that Frank's mother is still alive. Her father had always said that she died in a car accident. The more Pepper unravels her family's secrets, the more questions she has.
Shaye dives deeply into Pepper’s emotions and psychological state as her protagonist tries to process all the events happening in her life. Shaye effectively creates a pervasive mood of disquiet in the narrative by having Pepper sense that things are not quite as they seem. The main character wrestles internally, never knowing how to rid herself of the emotions that swirl inside her, and the reader vicariously experiences her frustration and anxiety. The author gives a realistic account of how a person can struggle when confronted with confusing and highly emotional situations. The suspense rises as it becomes clear that Pepper must piece together this puzzle or forever lose her peace and sanity. Readers will appreciate this book because it ultimately conveys the message that seeking the truth can free one's mind. Shaye’s novel will likely be an enjoyable read for many.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review