Little Deadly Secrets

June 22, 2020
Two decades after becoming BFFs at college, Mackenzie Fischer, Robin Thompson, and Lily Santoro, the three suburban Pittsburghers at the center of this serviceably plotted but otherwise subpar domestic thriller from Crane (Pretty Ugly Lies), face an interlacing series of crises that threaten to destroy their bond—if not their lives. Homemakers Mackenzie and Robin are approaching breaking points in their marriages; Mackenzie has had it with explosive, abusive Owen, while Robin suspects Grant, whom she still loves, of fooling around at the same time she’s swamped taking care of their four kids. Meanwhile, personal trainer Lily, who’s separated from her husband, is tempted to sleep with Grant, who’s come on to her out of sexual frustration in his marriage. A disturbing incident involving Robin’s 18-year-old son and Mackenzie’s 15-year-old daughter could jeopardize Mackenzie’s relationship with Robin—and could anger Owen if he finds out about it. Though Crane does a good job keeping all these plates spinning and delivers a couple of 11th hour surprises, readers should be prepared for clichéd characters and credulity stretching coincidences. Other authors have done better with similar material.