Review of Parents Weekend by Alex Finlay
Happy publication day to Parents Weekend! 🎉✨ As someone who has been enthralled by Alex Finlay’s previous works, especially The Night Shift, I eagerly anticipated diving into his latest release. A story set in a small private school during an anxious Parents Weekend, with secrets lurking beneath the surface, sounded like a promise of an engaging read. Unfortunately, while Parents Weekend had a fascinating premise, the execution left me feeling somewhat disappointed.
The narrative revolves around five college families whose excitement takes a dark turn when their children, the Campisi Hall residents, mysteriously go missing during the Parents Weekend gathering. Initially dismissing their absence as typical college antics, anxiety quickly morphs into panic. What begins as a festive weekend spirals into a chilling investigation involving campus police and media frenzy. It’s a compelling setup, rich with potential for suspense and character exploration.
Finlay artfully portrays the complex relationship dynamics, exploring themes of family dysfunction and societal expectations. Through the lives of Libby, Blane, Mark, Felix, and Stella—collectively referred to as “The Five”—I expected insight into the trials of growing up. Yet, as the story unfolded, I found myself struggling to connect with these characters, who felt more like archetypes than fully realized individuals. The wealthy bureaucrat, the privileged plastic surgeon, the busy judge, and the beleaguered wife—all solid roles, yet they often felt like caricatures devoid of depth.
Normally, I relish multi-POV narratives, but here, the sheer volume of characters diluted their individual stories. I wanted to empathize with them, to understand the burdens they carried, but they never fully resonated with me. Perhaps it was the choice to excuse their questionable behavior with a “they’re just kids” mentality. We’re talking about young adults—college students—who should be held accountable. This disconnect made it difficult for me to invest in their fates.
However, there was a bright spot in the return of Agent Sarah Keller. Her presence was a welcome relief amidst an otherwise forgettable ensemble. Her well-crafted persona brought urgency and intrigue, giving readers a reason to keep turning pages, even when the story faltered.
While the pacing was brisk and the atmospheric tension palpable, the plot’s execution ultimately felt like a missed opportunity. The mystery remained compelling; the way Finlay weaves in past and present perspectives is a testament to his storytelling skills. Yet, I yearned for a deeper exploration of character motivations that would have heightened the impact of the narrative.
If you’re someone who enjoys tales tangled in familial complexities and college life with a side of mystery, Parents Weekend might resonate with you. Finlay’s keen observations about the interplay of expectations and reality certainly spark thoughts long after the last page is turned. As I close this chapter in my reading journey, I feel a mixture of appreciation for the creativity behind the plot and a lingering sense of “what could have been.”
If you love a good thriller that keeps you guessing, this book could still offer a delightful escape, especially for those familiar with the college experience or who relish intricate family dynamics. Happy reading! 📖✨
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