Glad you were able to elaborate here. I can get a better idea from this why you feel the way you do about the book.

I also think it was, if not pointless, at least uneccesary to have the accident turn out to be murder (although I would hardly agree that "her parents really WERE perfect!" I mean, her father at least was guilty of some rather shady actions; covering up his friend's crime).

I was also disappointed by Mary's actions. I had come to rely on her as a strong, clear-headed character. She has major issues, yes, but her characterization in this book made her seem weak to me.