Secrets of Southern Girls by Haley Harrigan: A Review

Julie is a single mother and struggling to come to terms with her part in the tragic death of her friend, Reba.  Sweet, innocent Reba's death was ruled a suicide but Julie believes that she may have killed her friend.  When Reba's old boyfriend, August, shows up with questions and tells her that Reba kept a diary, she travels back to home with August to find the diary and find out what really happened to Reba.

This book had a great beginning.  It takes place in a town full of racism and Reba and August were the star-crossed lovers there.  Julie was an orphan who lacked the love she needed from her new family and looked for it elsewhere.  In addition, there seemed to be an element of a mystery that was unfolding.  It lacked any kind of surprise and the ending was very predictable, though.  While the writing was fluid and kept me moving in the beginning, that lack of a complex story line made it difficult for me to enjoy the book towards the end.  The characters were very stereotypical and lacked authenticity.  I think that the theme of the problematic relationship between Reba and August would have done better if the story were to take place during the civil rights movement.  It would have made it more believable.  While I did enjoy the first half of the book and don't regret reading this, it wasn't my favorite. 

My rating:
★★★☆☆

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I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher in order to review it but that did not have an effect on my review of the book.  This is my honest opinion of this book.  I am a participant in the Amazon Affiliates program.  By clicking on the Amazon link and purchasing this product, I receive a small fee.  I am not associated with Goodreads or Barnes and Noble in any way and the links provided are available strictly for your convenience and not to imply a relationship of any kind.