Dead of Summer by Jessa Maxwell
Sharp Focus, Shock Ending
As a rule, I’ll always seek out a new release from an author I’ve previously enjoyed, and my second deep dive into Jessa Maxwell’s work, The Dead of Summer, proves she’s a master of the modern thriller.
What I appreciate most is Maxwell’s disciplined plotting. The Dead of Summer utilizes a lean cast, preventing the common thriller pitfall of being overwhelmed by tertiary characters. The story remains tightly focused, free of conflicting or distracting backstories that might confuse the reader. This laser-like focus drives the book to a satisfying and classic Jessa Maxwell finale: it has a great, twisty structure that feels familiar, yet it manages to deliver a bombshell ending that you genuinely won’t see coming.
The narrative follows Orla and Alice, neighboring best friends on Hadley Island, New England, who are bound by a mutual passion for art and a shared plan to escape their small town for college in New York. That dream is fractured when Alice realizes her personal circumstances will block her path to New York. Orla, oblivious to the severity of the situation, can only watch as Alice begins to act erratically, change her style, and distance herself little by little.
Of course, a thriller set in a wealthy community needs a rich boy—a character you love to hate, or just plain love. I experienced both emotions with this one. It is undeniably a slow burn, but its deliberate pace pays off handsomely. It’s another strong 4-star read. I’ll happily continue my quest for the 5-star masterpiece from this excellent author!
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