River of Ashes

River of Ashes by Alexandrea Weis & Lucas Astor is a psychological thriller that is as enthralling as it is disturbing. The narrative follows a web of complex relationships featuring Beau Devereaux, Leslie Moore, and her twin sister, Dawn, all St. Benedict High School students. Beau, the charismatic and popular star quarterback, has a troubled past and a penchant for manipulation. The only child of a powerful family, he believes he owns the world and does unspeakable acts in the shadows. He threatens his victims and intimidates them. Now, his eyes are set on his girlfriend’s twin sister. But Leslie hates everything about him and knows he is dangerous. Will he have her as the prize, or can she outwit his machinations? 

The characters in River of Ashes are multi-dimensional and well-developed. Beau Devereaux is the quintessential bad boy with a charming exterior that hides his dark secrets. Leslie Moore is a strong-willed, intelligent character. Dawn, the twin sister, is portrayed as a manipulative and opportunistic character who uses her charm to get what she wants. The supporting characters, including Coach Brewer and Ms. Greenbriar, are also elaborately drawn. The novel is set in the small town of St. Benedict, Louisiana, where the characters are trapped in a web of social expectations and family legacies. The setting provides a rich backdrop for the story. The conflict is primarily internal, as each character struggles to understand their desires and secrets. The triangle between Beau, Leslie, and Derek creates tension and drama, while the toxic relationship between Beau and Dawn threatens to destroy the fragile ties between the characters.

The strength of narrative lies in its ability to create a sense of atmosphere and foreboding. The author's use of descriptive language paints a vivid picture of the small town and its characters, drawing the reader into the story's world. The pacing is well-balanced, with fast-paced action and slow-burning tension that keeps the reader engaged. Fans of The Secret History by Donna Tartt or The Poison Tree by Erin Kelly will enjoy this gorgeous offering from Alexandrea Weis & Lucas Astor. The authors deliver an excellent page-turner — quirky, dark, and utterly arresting.