Monday, May 11, 2026

The Anniversary - Alex Finlay


 Title: The Anniversary

Author: Alex Finlay
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Psychological Thriller
Format: eARC
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5★)


Synopsis
On May 1st, 1992, the lives of Quinn Riley and Jules Delaney change forever. Quinn is arrested after trying to break up a fight that turns violent, while Jules survives an attack by the terrifying May Day Killer, a serial predator who strikes every year on the same date.

As the years pass, both remain haunted by that night and the unanswered questions surrounding it. But when their paths cross again, they begin uncovering clues that may finally connect their stories and lead them closer to the truth behind the killer who has remained hidden for years.


My Thoughts

I finished this book in one sitting, which honestly says everything.

This was such an easy, fast, and satisfying read, the kind where you keep telling yourself “just one more chapter” and suddenly it’s the middle of the night.

From the very beginning, the connection between Quinn and Jules pulled me in. On May 1st, 1992, their lives are changed forever in completely different circumstances, and at first it almost feels like a strange coincidence. But as the years pass, that date keeps resurfacing in both of their lives through trauma, grief, and unanswered questions.

What I really enjoyed is how the story unfolds over time. Even when Quinn and Jules are apart, their lives still feel connected in subtle ways, and when they eventually come together again, it feels natural and earned rather than forced.

The investigation surrounding the May Day Killer was gripping, but what made the story stand out for me is that it isn’t only focused on catching a serial killer. It also explores heavier themes like guilt, survival, grief, fate and how one single moment can completely shape the rest of a person’s life.

There’s a lot happening throughout the story, but it never felt messy or overwhelming. The pacing stays tight, the mystery keeps moving, and I stayed fully invested not only in the investigation itself, but also in Quinn and Jules as characters.


Final Thoughts

Overall, this was a really strong and compelling thriller that kept me turning pages without effort.

Fast-paced, emotional and engaging from start to finish, this is definitely one I’d recommend if you enjoy thrillers that balance mystery with more character-driven elements.


ARC Disclaimer
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

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The Anniversary - Alex Finlay

  Title: The Anniversary Author: Alex Finlay Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Psychological Thriller Format: eARC Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5★) Synopsi...