Games for Dead Girls: A Thriller

⭐⭐⭐

Games for Dead Girls by Jen Williams is a chilling thriller that takes readers on a journey of dark secrets and hidden horrors. Told in alternating timelines, the story follows Charlie, who created a monster when she was just eleven years old. Charlie and her niece Katie find themselves in the quiet seaside town of Hithechurch, England, where Charlie is researching the local folklore for a book. However, her research uncovers a sinister secret: young women have been going missing for decades, with no answers or bodies left behind.

The book's cover is visually stunning, immediately capturing the reader's attention. While the writing is solid and the atmospheric setting is a highlight, the plot suffers from being slow-moving. The three timelines, although intriguing in concept, fail to seamlessly mesh together, leaving readers confused at times. Additionally, the inclusion of Katie's character seems unnecessary and doesn't contribute significantly to the overall story.

Furthermore, the ending feels rushed and lacks the depth and development that the rest of the book promises. It leaves readers feeling unsatisfied and wishing for more closure. Overall, Games for Dead Girls is a mixed bag. Although it has its strengths, such as the atmospheric setting and decent writing, the slow pacing and disjointed timelines prevent it from reaching its full potential.

ARC Via NetGalley