Over the course of winter break, I had the opportunity to consume my life with reading. I always had a fascination with mystery novels and this one was a hit. New York Times Bestselling Author Gillian Flynn of “Gone Girl” captivated my life once again with “Dark Places.” 

It’s a chilling and twisted story about Libby Day, who, at seven years old, survived “the Satan Sacrifice of Kinnakee, Kansas.” She then had to testify against her brother, Ben for committing the murders. 

Years pass and tensions arise in Libby’s life by the Kill Club that shows interest in her family’s past. They find Libby and start asking her questions. Details from the murder were given and the Kill Club’s main purpose was to find information that will set Ben free from this crime. The search for the truth comes with a price for Libby, the Kill Club and the person who committed this awful crime. Libby runs from what actually happened on that day and also from the killer who wants to continue what was started. 

The characters described by Libby had some false input of the understanding of why her brother did it. Or did he? Escaping from the window after witnessing the murders by her brother had scarred her for life. 

The story development took place when Libby craved to find the truth and got closer to figuring out what happened. 

My life was turned upside down with not having the strength to put this book down. I was shocked at the ending and would recommended this book to students and staff. “Dark Places” is about not having the strength to go deep in your mind and coming to terms with the truth. I encourage everyone to read more and educate your mind with richer vocabulary. 

I was impressed by the detailed work shared with the readers and the final showdown for the truth that Libby searched for. Flynn wanted readers to relate to the importance of family and knowing that the truth will always come out in the long run. I would rate the novel a 4.7/5 because it was detailed enough to have a clear understanding, but nothing is ever perfect or completely finished in the author’s perceptive.