The Perfect Place to Die by Bryce Moore - NO

The Perfect Place to Die by Bryce Moore, 320 pgs. Sourcebooks, 2021. $11

Language: G (No Swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG-13 (murder and violence against women)

BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS - NO

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Zuretta’s sister, Ruby,  has run away to the big city of Chicago. Fearing for her safety, Zuretta leaves small town life to find her. Soon Zuretta will discover that dangers lurk in the fast paced excitement of the big city. Between the chaos of the World Fair and an unnamed terror stalking young women, Zuretta must find her sister before it is too late. 

Blatant historical mistakes, a plot that is dependent on coincidence and convenience, and a main character who is presented as strong and brave, but whose actions and behavior are in fact ridiculous, create a story that is not worth the reader’s time. Knowing that the intended audience is young and more than likely unaware of one of the most infamous serial killers in the history of the United States does not entirely excuse the unmasking of said serial killer being the “twist” that is supposed to leave the reader stunned. 

Reviewer: AEB