The Resemblance
The Resemblance by Lauren Nossett (McMillian Publishing/audio)
Set in a Southern University with a dark past of privilege, secrets, and death. Detective Marlitt Kaplan happens to be on the University campus when a hit and run takes place. She runs outside to find the victim dead in the crosswalk. Though there are many witnesses, they can only agree on three things- the driver looked identical to the victim, he was driving the victim’s car and he was smiling.
This story is part police procedural, part general critique of the Greek system. Marlitt has a long-standing grudge against fraternities and all the avoidable tragedies that happen under their watch.
I felt that the story relied too heavily on stereotypes, leading the characters to become misrepresented at times. The flashback scenes are far and few between, not allowing the reader to fully comprehend, and possibly empathize with why Detective Kaplan distrusts of fraternities and the Greek system. I felt as a reader, not being able to connect with our Protagonist and ended up disliking her. The reveal comes out of nowhere and denies the reader of any opportunities to put the pieces together for themselves.
Finally, the ending is just so abrupt. I felt like I had questions still burning in my mind. Overall, it was a fun read with some surprising twists that will keep readers on their toes. This being a debut, it is objectively a great thriller and a page turner.
