"Pretty Dead Things" Review: Thrilling Yet Imperfect

Quick Verdict

Kelsey Cox's "Pretty Dead Things" is a thrilling dive into the dark side of Texas beauty pageants, offering a chilling exploration of secrets and rivalries. While its dual timelines captivate, the complex narrative may occasionally confuse. Overall, it's an entertaining read for mystery lovers, though not without its flaws.

What It's About

"Pretty Dead Things" by Kelsey Cox is a psychological thriller set against the backdrop of Texas beauty pageants. The story unfolds through two timelines: the year 2000, when Isabelle Whitmore vanishes, and 2025, as the annual Lone Star Princess Pageant rekindles old animosities. Characters like Ingrid, who returns to confront her past, and Sarah Lynn, driven by family expectations, navigate a web of secrets. As a storm traps everyone under one roof, tensions rise, and deadly secrets emerge.

Writing & Style

Cox employs a dual-timeline structure, weaving a complex narrative that keeps readers guessing. Her style is evocative, capturing the sinister undercurrents of pageant culture. The book is narrated by multiple characters, offering diverse perspectives but sometimes leading to confusion about who is speaking. The audiobook format enhances clarity with distinct performances.

What Works

The novel excels in building suspense and mystery around Isabelle's disappearance. Cox's depiction of pageant culture is both fascinating and unsettling, highlighting the pressures and rivalries within. The emotional depth, particularly Ingrid's grief over her missing sister, adds weight to the thriller elements, making it more than just a superficial mystery.

What Doesn't

The complexity of multiple timelines and narrators can be disorienting, especially for those unfamiliar with the characters. Some readers may find the pacing uneven, with the first half setting up the story and the second half delivering the dramatic twists. Additionally, the portrayal of characters might feel stereotypical, particularly in their depiction of the pageant world.

Who Should Read It

"Pretty Dead Things" is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers and those intrigued by the dark side of beauty pageants. Readers who enjoy novels with intricate plots and multiple perspectives will find it engaging. However, those seeking straightforward narratives or who dislike complex character webs might struggle.

Final Score

7/10 - "Pretty Dead Things" delivers an engrossing mystery with a few narrative hurdles. It's worth reading for its compelling exploration of secrets and the pageant world's darker aspects.