Book Review: What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena
What is it about Shari Lapena’s thrillers that always manages to hook me? Perhaps it’s her knack for crafting suspenseful narratives that delve into the darker shades of human nature. When I heard about her latest release, What Have You Done?, I was both excited and apprehensive. A small town in Vermont, a tragic death of a teenager—these elements screamed intrigue. Yet, as someone who often revels in Lapena’s storytelling, I wondered if this latest installment could measure up to her previous hits.
Set in the quiet community of Fairhill, Vermont, What Have You Done? kicks off with the mysterious death of Diana Brewer. Foul play is suspected, and the small-town dynamics—it seems perfect for a gripping psychological thriller. However, I have to confess: while I initially dove into the twists and turns with enthusiasm, I found myself struggling with the sheer number of characters. When a book introduces a vast cast, it can sometimes detract from the main storyline. In this case, I felt like I was playing a constant game of "who’s who," and recalling relationships and motivations became a bit overwhelming rather than engaging.
Lapena’s decision to include Diana’s ghost as a point of view was a brave gamble. While it added a layer of haunting inquiry into her own demise, I couldn’t quite grasp how her perspective enriched the narrative, especially since Diana herself is clueless about who killed her. It made me question the necessity of that angle. Yet, despite these quirks, I appreciated Lapena’s bold exploration of darker themes, particularly sensitive subjects that wound their way through the plot. It certainly provoked thought and yes, even some healthy rage!
On the topic of pacing, I must mention that the writing style is, as ever, addictive. Lapena has a way of making her chapters fly by, encouraging late-night reading sessions that you simply can’t resist. The quick chapters are like little jabs, keeping you hooked and wanting to know more. However, in some stretches, particularly in the middle, it felt repetitive. The buildup seemed to stall at times, leaving me eager for resolution but disappointed with how abruptly the ending arrived. It felt more like a blaring horn than a gentle resolution—a wham bam thank you ma’am moment that left me craving a deeper conclusion.
Despite the bumps in the road, the book delivers a whirlwind of suspense that’s perfect for a weekend escape. For dedicated Lapena fans like myself, this book remains an enjoyable ride, though it wouldn’t be my top recommendation for those new to her works.
In the end, What Have You Done? is a mixed bag—ideal for those who appreciate a fast-paced thriller that keeps you on your toes, even if the execution may stumble at times. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just dipping into Lapena’s world for the first time, this book is a compelling entry worth considering, albeit with some caveats. For me, it was a valuable experience, one that ultimately reaffirmed my appreciation for Lapena’s ability to blend psychological complexity with a story that grips you, even when it occasionally trips over its own plot twists. Here’s to hoping for a future read that hits all the right notes!
Overall Rating: 3.5 ⭐
P.S. Ms. Lapena, thank you for introducing me to a new word: ‘hubris.’ Always a lesson in creativity, aren’t you?