Sharp Objects

Camille Preaker works as a journalist at The Daily Post in Chicago, covering crimes and stories about human suffering, which she finds unfulfilling. She has a history of self-harm and hallucinations, which adds to her emotional struggles. Her boss, Frank Curry, supports her after a recent hospitalization for self-harm.

Frank Curry assigns Camille to cover the case of a murdered girl, Ann Nash, and a missing child, Natalie Keene, in her hometown of Wind Gap, Missouri. This marks her return to her troubled hometown to investigate the local crimes. The case becomes increasingly complex as more victims are found.

Camille gathers information from Wind Gap residents and talks with the police, who provide little insight. Sheriff Vickery confides off the record that he suspects a local resident is responsible for the murders. The investigation reveals the brutality of the crimes committed in the town.

Natalie Keene's body is found strangled and with her teeth removed, deepening the mystery. This gruesome discovery prompts Camille to stay longer in Wind Gap to follow the case, with her editor Curry urging her to continue reporting on the unfolding events.

Camille reconnects with her mother, Adora, and her half-sister, Amma, both of whom have troubled relationships with her. She uncovers that her mother, Adora, has a manipulative side, and that Amma hides rebellious tendencies. Their interactions reveal hidden family tensions.

Camille develops a romantic relationship with Richard Willis, a detective investigating the murders. She hides her scars during their affair, while Richard suspects her mother Adora's involvement in the crimes. The relationship adds emotional complexity to Camille's investigation.

Camille learns that her mother, Adora, suffers from factitious disorder imposed on another and was responsible for her sister Marian's death. A nurse's letter confirms her suspicions, revealing Adora's manipulative and dangerous nature. This discovery shifts Camille's understanding of her family.

Camille returns home to confront her mother, who poisons her and tries to care for her. Camille passes out but is rescued by Richard and the police. Adora is arrested and charged with the murders of Marian, Ann Nash, and Natalie Keene, exposing her as the true killer.

Following her mother's arrest, Camille's relationship with Richard ends as her scars are revealed. Amma is sent to live with Camille in Chicago, and Camille begins to rebuild her life. Amma initially adjusts but begins to reveal her dark side later in the story.

After a classmate is murdered with six teeth pulled, it is revealed that Amma was responsible for the murders of Ann and Natalie. Driven by jealousy and manipulation, she is arrested, exposing her as a dangerous killer. Camille faces the trauma of her sister's dark deeds.

Distraught by the events, Camille resumes self-harming but is stopped by Curry and his wife, who take her in as their own daughter. This marks a turning point in her recovery, as she begins to heal emotionally with newfound support.