Wholly unpredictable story

I didn't read the publisher's synopsis before diving into this book but it barely scratches the surface and only gives a tiny taste of what goes on in the story, the town where it takes place and its inhabitants. The cover of the book gives little to nothing away as well so be prepared to be surprised and to have questions as you read, questions that pile up faster than answers for them. The murders and crime kept me guessing, not knowing whodunnit all thru the book, and being surprised by twists in the plot and reveals around the crimes. Most of the characters are quirky or odd or downright awful personality- and behavior-wise and there are lots of them so those keen to solve all the mysteries may want to take notes as they read. (I thought to do that when I was already too far along in the book for it to be fruitful or of use). Margaret is an ice queen of sorts and clashes with Bess's intentionally optimistic outlook but both are formidable and complex characters in their own right; theirs is an unusual rapport to say the least. Numerous characters' traits reveal themselves as the story unfolds so the reader's feelings about them may shift or change radically from start to finish. The teenagers and animals in this story defy expectations and one animal in particular has a moment of heroism that was both amazing and totally unexpected; all the characters defy stereotypes and are atypical in one way or another so they're fascinating and refreshing to read.

I read this book slower than I normally would in order to try and monitor the characters, watch for clues and guess what would happen next but guessed nothing accurately which made for exciting reading. The story is funny, scary, creepy, mysterious, sensual and so much more.
The goings on in the book are difficult to summarize without spoiling any of it, but if you're wanting a change in your lesfic reading to something wholly unpredictable, dramatic, romantic, quirky, mysterious and suspenseful, this will satisfy that need and pull you into this weird town, its unusual museums and eccentric inhabitants and visitors.
(Reviewed April 14, 2019)