I don't read a lot of suspense novels, but listening to Stacy Willingham's newest story has become a fun tradition every January. I definitely associate narrator Karissa Vacker's voice with this author's books. This year's title, Only If You're Lucky, is a campus novel set in South Carolina.

Margot's freshman year was difficult because she's mourning the tragic death of her best friend who was to attend Rutledge College with her. Just before summer break, Lucy invites Margot to share a house with her and two friends which changes everything. Lucy's big, charismatic personality encourages Margot to step (way) outside her freshman year routines and party with the fraternity guys who live next door. Margot's having the best summer of her life ... until someone from her hometown shows up at Rutledge and her worlds collide.

This was almost equal parts character-driven and plot-driven; I enjoy both types of stories so this worked for me. It held my attention throughout although it felt a bit slow in the middle. I could relate to some of Margot and Lucy's emotional struggles even though (thankfully) I'm decades past my college years. This is definitely slow burn and won't appeal to readers who prefer fast-paced thrillers.

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for access to the audiobook.

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