July has been full of some really great reads for me. This is one that I have been looking forward to since I first heard about it. I ended up really enjoying it, but I wasn’t totally blown away by it like many have been. I think part of that might have to do with the fact that I read “All the Colors of the Dark” just before I read this one, and that book was still firmly lodged in my head (and will be for a while). It’s going to be tough for any book to beat out that one. Still, I really enjoyed this one.

The story begins in the summer of 1975 when thirteen-year-old Barbara Van Laar goes missing from her family’s summer camp. What makes her disappearance all the more tragic is that Barbara’s brother also disappeared in these woods fourteen years prior. As the search for Barbara intensifies, the secrets of the Van Laar family and the community they inhabit begin to unravel. Moore’s narrative unfolds through multiple viewpoints, allowing readers to delve deep into the complex dynamics of privilege, wealth, and power. From the moment Barbara goes missing, the tension is palpable. Moore skillfully weaves together the perspectives of various characters, from the camp counselor who discovers Barbara’s disappearance to Barbara’s own family members to an escaped serial killer, and finally, a young female detective eager to figure out what happened to the missing girl. Each character brings a unique perspective to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of emotions, motivations, and revelations.

Moore’s writing is vivid and atmospheric, bringing to life the lush, wooded summer camp setting and the large, imposing chateau at the other edge of the woods where the Van Laars live – a house as imposing and secret-filled as the family that owns it. Through the lens of the Van Laar family, Moore examines the impact of wealth and status on individuals and communities, delving into the murky waters of inequality and entitlement. As the characters grapple with their past traumas and present struggles, they must confront the ways in which their actions have shaped their lives and the lives of those around them. Moore handles these complex themes with nuance and sensitivity, never shying away from the darker aspects of human nature.

The novel jumps back and forth in time, offering a deep look at the Van Laar’s troubled past. The Van Laar family, with their secrets and lies, is at the center of the mystery. As their secrets are slowly revealed, readers are drawn deeper into the web of deceit that has been woven over the years. The multiple viewpoints and timelines add depth and complexity to the story, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level and both empathize and question their decisions and motivations.

Overall, I found this to be a riveting read that will leave you questioning the nature of truth and the lengths people will go to protect their legacy. With its expertly drawn characters and atmospheric setting, this novel is a must-read for fans of literary fiction and suspense. If you’re in the mood for a gripping mystery that will keep you guessing, this might be the book for you.