The Anniversary - two people's lives are altered on an infamous anniversary.

On May 1, 1992, Jules Delaney, a popular high school student, is violently attacked after leaving a concert by herself. The people in her small Nebraska town have been on edge since a local girl was killed by the notorious May Day Killer, who has been attacking girls and women across the Midwest annually on May 1st, since the 1980s. Jules survives but doesn't tell anyone, fearing another attack. Quinn Riley, who is not as popular as Jules, became friends with her during study hall. He also attended the concert and is arrested after intervening in a fight. While he is serving time at a juvenile center, Quinn's mother is murdered. Over the next decade, Jules struggles with her trauma, especially as the May 1st anniversaries approach. Meanwhile, Quinn dedicates himself to uncovering who killed his mother. As Jules and Quinn mature and move into adulthood, their paths cross once again.

The Anniversary by Alex Finlay is an intriguing mystery thriller that is also a moving coming-of-age story about two individuals whose lives have been changed by tragic events. The appeal of the story lies in the heartfelt personal development of the two main characters as the puzzle pieces fall into place. Finlay is a talented author who consistently offers something fresh and unique with each book. 

Many thanks to Minotaur Books | St. Martin's Press for the advance. 

Rated 4.25 out of 5 stars.

Mystery Thriller.

Publication Date: May 12, 2026.

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