Before We Were Innocent, a Reese's Book Club selection, has sparked diverse reactions among readers. Here's a balanced look at what to expect.

Engaging Yet Divisive Plot: Many found the story captivating, with moments that made it hard to put down. However, some felt the ending was abrupt or unsatisfying, leaving key questions unanswered.

Character Depth: Opinions vary widely on the characters. Some readers connected deeply with the portrayal of teenage friendships and heartaches, while others found the characters unlikable or underdeveloped.

Pacing Issues: The book starts slow, which nearly led some to abandon it early on. However, most agree it picks up significantly around the middle.

Book Club Potential: Despite its flaws, many reviewers noted this would spark excellent book club discussions due to its ambiguous ending and complex themes.

Writing Style: The prose received consistent praise for being well-crafted and accessible, even for non-native English speakers.

Final Verdict: If you enjoy character-driven stories about complex relationships with an air of mystery (think We Were Liars or Gone Girl), this might be worth your time. But if you prefer neatly resolved plots or uplifting themes, you might want to skip this one.