Missing Clarissa by Ripley Jones
Published: March 7, 2023
Wednesday Books
Genre: YA Thriller
Pages: 249
KKECReads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Ripley Jones is a person of interest.
Over twenty years later, Oreville high-school juniors and best friends Blair and Cameron start a true crime podcast, determined to unravel the story of what―or who―happened to this rural urban legend. In the process they uncover a nest of dirty small-town secrets, the sordid truth of Clarissa’s relationship with her charismatic boyfriend, and a high school art teacher turned small-town figurehead who had a very good reason for wanting Clarissa dead. Such a good reason, in fact, that they might have to make him the highlight of their next episode…
But does an ugly history with a missing girl make him guilty of murder? Or are two teenage girls about to destroy the life of an innocent man―and help the true killer walk free?
“Everybody loves a dead girl.”
Cam and Blair are best friends and have been for years. When Cam suggests they create a podcast investigating a 20-year-old case, Blair isn’t sure but knows arguing with Cam will only waste her time. But the deeper they probe, the murkier the water gets. And now, they may find themselves alone with a killer.
This book was excellent! Very intense and fast-paced. I enjoyed the build-up and how the story was told. Ripley is a gifted storyteller.
I loved Cam. She is so endearing. I loved that she was so bright, that she was awkward, and that most people misunderstood her. Blair was a stereotypical tee aw girl. Insecure and filled with self-doubt. But together, they brought out the best in each other.
This was a powerful story about friendship, family, and overcoming being told no or you can’t. I found the themes of this book excellent and relevant.
This fast-paced story takes off and builds intensity with each page. The free fall toward the end was so beautifully executed. The way everything came together was so seamless and smooth. But the facts had all been there.
This was such a well-written book. Ripley Jones has earned herself a new fan.