49 pages • 1 hour read
We Begin at the End
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
California • Contemporary
2020
YA
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Chris Whitaker’s We Begin at the End, Vincent King returns to Cape Haven, California, after 30 years in prison for killing his girlfriend's younger sister in a hit-and-run accident, only to find his former girlfriend, Star, murdered. His childhood friend, Walk, now the town’s police chief, is convinced of Vincent’s innocence and investigates the crime. The story alternates between Walk’s perspective and that of Star's 13-year-old daughter, Duchess, who fiercely protects her younger brother, Robin. As Duchess and Robin are sent to live with their estranged grandfather, Hal, secrets of the past resurface, revealing complex family dynamics and the devastating impact of buried truths.
Mysterious
Emotional
Gritty
Bittersweet
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
145,780 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Chris Whitaker's We Begin at the End is widely praised for its compelling characters and evocative prose, with reviewers highlighting the depth and emotional resonance of its storytelling. However, some critics note the plot as occasionally convoluted. Overall, the novel's blend of crime and drama delivers a poignant, unforgettable read.
Who Should Read We Begin at the End?
Readers who would enjoy We Begin at the End by Chris Whitaker are fans of deep, emotionally resonant crime thrillers with rich character development. They often appreciate works like Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty, which blend mystery with profound human stories.
145,780 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Vincent King
Vincent King
A man who struggles with guilt over a past accident and maintains a life of isolation, he is connected to Duchess and Robin in important, undisclosed ways.
Sheriff "Walk" Walker
Sheriff "Walk" Walker
The sheriff of Cape Haven, who juggles his sense of justice with personal loyalty, often bending the rules in his attempts to protect others.
Dickie Darke
Dickie Darke
An intimidating and shadowy figure involved in dubious real estate activities, known for his intimidating presence and complex motivations.
384
Novel • Fiction
California • Contemporary
2020
YA
18+ years
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