[Review] — "AFTER THAT NIGHT" is a Dreaded, Misguided Thriller

It came to my revelation that New York Times bestselling author Karin Slaughter was soon to publish a new novel, This Is Why I Lied, and it dawned on me that I should probably write my thoughts on her previous books, AFTER THAT NIGHT—published nearly a year ago by William Morrow.

The characters Will Trent and Sara Linton return in AFTER THAT NIGHT. Sara Linton's world was shattered fifteen years ago by a brutal attack that ended a festive night out. Sara has rebuilt her life since then. She's a successful doctor, engaged to her true love, and moved on from her past. Then everything changed one evening while on call at the ER. Sara fights to protect a broken young woman who is a victim of a vicious assault. However, it becomes evident as the investigation—headed by GBI Special Agent Will Trent—shows that Dani Cooper's assault and Sara's are somehow connected. It appears that the past will not stay buried forever.

AFTER THAT NIGHT is either the second or third book—my mind seems to be slipping—that I've read by Karin Slaughter—though I own several other titles by her—and the #1 thing I like about her is her devoted love for detailed descriptions, something that's sadly missing for most modern authors. But... Yep, there's a but! The dialogue for the characters felt sloppy compared to Slaughter's other book (or two) that I've read by her. There were moments—chapters—that felt rushed, throwing the pacing off. Because of those pacing issues, it took me longer than usual—way too long—to read this book. I cared for the protagonists, but the dialogue and pacing problems stopped me from enjoying my read. I shouldn't dread reading a book, but that's exactly how I felt when reading AFTER THAT NIGHT—dread.

It's just my opinion, and I'm guessing—and going by other reviews—different from most readers, whom I assumed didn't find the same issues I found with AFTER THAT NIGHT. There's nothing wrong with the plotline; there were enough twists and turns to keep me at least invested in the story—because if I'm not interested in the plot—I'm automatically closing the book and moving on to other better reads. 

Overall, AFTER THAT NIGHT is a misguided, flawed, by-the-book thriller that could have been decent if it had a few rewrites. ╌★★½✰✰

Just a quick reminder: This book is available for purchase on Amazon.com. I am an Amazon affiliate, so if you buy the book through the link above, I will receive a small commission. All earnings will help to support future reviews.