We Begin at the End

thenextgoodbook.com
We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker
367 pages

What’s it about?
Duchess is a 13 year-old girl just trying to keep her mom (Star) and her brother (Robin) safe. Her only ally is a local sheriff named Walk. Walk grew up with Star and does his best to keep her sober and watch out for her two kids. When Star and Walk’s old friend Vincent is released from prison after 30 years everyone is put on edge. This whole story hinges on one question- is Vincent a good man?

What did it make me think about?
Justice.

Should I read it?
This was a plot driven thriller and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Set in both California and Montana this story has a western feel to it. Occasionally some of the sentences seemed a little stilted, but can you argue with being too poetic? Part hard luck story, part who-dun-it, but always full of heart. I highly recommend this book. One of my favorites this summer.

Quote-
“You’re like a kid. Better and worse. Bad and good. None of us are only one thing. We’re just a collection of the best and worst things we’ve done.”

If you liked this try-
Fourth of July Creek by Smith Henderson
Idaho by Emily Ruskovich
My Absolute Darling by Gabriel Tallent
Out Stealing Horses by Per Petterson

This is a beautifully written, character driven novel. Very thought provoking.

There were almost too many twists and turns in this story. I found myself losing focus and then struggling to figure out what the heck had just happened. Ultimately I think it all came together but the windy road to get there was too long and depressing.

Beautiful story. One of my all time favorites

Oh, my goodness, I can't remember the last book that made me laugh out loud and have tears rolling down my face on the next chapter. I'm not even sure I can describe this book or "accurately sum it up". It's a coming of age story mixed with a murder mystery full of guilt, grief and secrets. There are a lot of characters and part one was slow for me and I didn't like the writing style (why I only gave 4.5 stars). Either the writing got better or I just got used to it. :) Set in small town Cape Haven, CA and Copper Falls, Montana, this character driven book introduces us to Duchess Day Radley, a spunky, unforgettable feisty 13 year old girl who has been dealt the lousiest hand in life. She does her best to care for and protect her younger brother, Robin while also looking out for her single mom, Star, who has her own troubles. Robin is shy and sweet, while Duchess is sassy and calls herself an outlaw.

Thirty years earlier, a 15 year Thomas King was responsible for the death of Star's sister, Sissy. King is now being released and his longtime friend, Walker is now the chief of police. Walk has always believed in the goodness of King. Through the years, Walk has done all to can to keep an eye on Duchess and Robin. When tragedy strikes the Radley family, Duchess and Robin go to live with their estranged grandfather in Montana. Unfortunately, the past keeps repeating itself and follows them to Montana.

This story is heartbreaking, full of broken people, secrets, murder, revenge, family tragedy & compassion. It may sound depressing, and I suppose it is but is also has promise and hope for a better future. Duchess will make you laugh out loud (especially when she is with Thomas Noble) and will pull on your heartstrings (especially with her Grandfather and when she puts Robin's needs above her own).