Three Little Truths by Eithne Shortall

3.5*

It was disappointing, having loved Grace After Henry, to find that I had so much trouble getting into this book. I put it down twice, forgetting about it, until I finally decided to commit to finishing it. I’m glad I did because it became a surprising and mostly satisfying whodunit as well as a compelling multi-character study. One problem were the confusing dialogue structures. There was the use of the WhatsApp texting format with a vast array of underdeveloped characters feeding each other gossip under the guise of concern, as well as the one-sided conversations (e.g., Martha’s answers to what we can assume are unrevealed questions from her therapist). Although gossip drove the story, it was really off-putting, and many of the neighbors were hard to stomach (a possibly demented hoarder, a couple of vindictive, power-hungry, controlling shrews, and two incredibly insecure young women). There were only a couple of the women I’d ever want to befriend. As for the criminal reveal, my feelings are mixed. It was a great twist but, although the resolutions were mostly satisfying and character motives were clear, it was still hard to accept that justice wouldn’t be served on the vile men who committed the crime. I’d also love to know what the Three Little Truths are! Due to the problems I mention, it’s a 3.5* that I’ve rounded up to a 4.

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from G.P. Putnam’s Sons through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.