Let me start by saying this: if you're a fan of crime and mystery novels that keep you guessing until the very end, *The God of the Woods* is an absolute must-read. Liz Moore has crafted something truly special here - a book that transcends the typical genre tropes while delivering all the suspense and intrigue we crave.

What sets this novel apart is its incredible character development. Unlike many mysteries where characters feel like mere plot devices, every principal character in *The God of the Woods* has substantial depth and background. You'll find yourself genuinely caring about their fates, which makes the unfolding mysteries all the more compelling.

The structure is brilliant - alternating between two time periods to slowly reveal hidden secrets and motivations. Moore's meticulous attention to detail in building her world and characters makes this more than just a page-turner (though it certainly is that too!). The way class divisions and sexism are woven into the narrative adds layers of social commentary that elevate the story.

Now for some real talk: The ending might frustrate some readers. While I appreciate that not every thread needs to be neatly tied up, there were definitely some character arcs I wished had more resolution. Alice's story in particular left me wanting more closure. That said, the ambiguity does leave room for interesting discussions and interpretations.

The audiobook version deserves special mention - the narrator does an exceptional job bringing each character to life with distinct voices that feel authentic to their personalities. Whether you choose to read or listen (or do both like I did), you're in for a treat.

At nearly 500 pages, this isn't a quick read, but every page earns its place. The prose is excellent - smart without being pretentious, descriptive without being flowery. It's one of those rare books where both the journey and destination satisfy.

For mystery lovers looking for something fresh yet familiar, *The God of the Woods* delivers in spades. Just be prepared to lose some sleep - once you start, putting it down becomes nearly impossible!