"Evil is simple. It's a child's explanation for why people do bad things. The truth is always more complicated and worth pursuing."
There were many versions of Hattie Hoffman. To her parents, Hattie was the perfect child. She affably joked with her mother and father, doing her part to fill the void left by her military brother. At school, Hattie took on other roles. She earned solid marks in her classes and did her part to befriend her classmates. For her best friend Portia, Hattie played the part of trusted confidant. With her boyfriend Tommy, Hattie was the reliable arm candy. She accompanied him to all of his outings and did her part to agree with and encourage him.
Who is Hattie Hoffman? That's what Pine Valley Sheriff Del Goodman has been trying to figure out. Her mutilated body was discovered in an abandoned barn, and now Del has to identify her killer. For Del, the case is personal. Pine Valley is a small town that doesn't see much excitement. As such, the entire city is abuzz with the story of the brutal crime. To complicate matters, even more, Del is good friends with Hattie's father. As the details of Hattie's final hours come to light, Del precariously balances his professional and personal obligations while revealing the shocking truth behind the girl who everyone loved.
Everything You Want Me to Be is a remarkable novel by Mindy Mejia. Mejia employs shifting perspectives in each chapter to bring about a suspenseful reveal. I've grown a bit tired of this particular technique, but there is no denying that Mejia uses it to maximum effect. It's difficult to comment in detail on this novel without giving too much away. Suffice it to say, I was immediately grabbed by the story and breathlessly turned the pages until the novel concluded. While each character had their flaws, I feel it only added to the authenticity of the world that Mejia created. Everything You Want Me to Be is a brilliant character study and page-turner that fans of great mysteries are sure to enjoy.
For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2017, 4)
If this sounds like a novel you would like to read, enter to win a copy courtesy of Atria Books. US entries only. No P.O. boxes please. Winner will have 48 hrs from contact to respond.
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Everything You Want Me to Be by Mindy Mejia
I have heard a lot about this book and can't wait to read this one! A lot of people have mentioned how good the story line is, even though at times it is non-linear instead of chronological, which is often confusing.
ReplyDeleteFortunately, the chronology was managed very well. I just feel like the non-linear technique is becoming overused.
DeleteI love a good mystery and I've seen a few reviews of the book. Everytime I read a review of this book, I feel like it would make an interesting movie.
ReplyDeleteI could definitely see this one as a movie. They would have to maintain the shifting perspectives to keep the suspense.
DeleteThis looks like a great and suspenseful read. Will have to add this one to my pile.
ReplyDeleteI love a good mystery
ReplyDeleteLooks like my type of your book.A real thriller real page turner.
ReplyDeleteI like to read books by authors who are new to me.
ReplyDeleteNancy
allibrary (at) aol (dot) com
I've been wanting to read this book, so excited that there's a giveaway--thanks!
ReplyDeleteThis sound like a great read. Thank you for your review and for hosting this great giveaway.
ReplyDeleteMysteries for me. Love to read them.
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a good book that would be difficult to put down! I like the cover too.
ReplyDeleteThis book sounds so intriguing! I can't wait to read it. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a really interesting book! Thank you for the contest!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like an interesting read.
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