Book Review: Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell
When I first picked up Then She Was Gone, I was drawn in not just by the captivating cover, but also by the alluring promise of a psychological thriller penned by Lisa Jewell, an author I had heard much about but had yet to discover for myself. I found myself yearning for a compelling narrative that would keep me guessing, and boy, did this novel deliver an emotional journey I wasn’t fully prepared for.
The storyline revolves around the haunting disappearance of fifteen-year-old Ellie Mack, a beloved daughter and friend, who seemingly vanished into thin air, leaving her mother, Laurel, grappling with grief over the past decade. The narrative expertly navigates the ripple effects of loss, threading through Laurel’s life as she slowly tries to rebuild and heal. Here, Jewell dives deep into the intricacies of family dynamics, the raw pain of losing a child, and the uncanny ties that bind past and present.
Laurel, our protagonist, is imperfectly relatable. Her grief is palpable, and her determination to find answers makes her a compelling character. As she navigates new relationships, particularly with Floyd, and encounters his charismatic daughter Poppy, readers are reminded of how grief can cloud judgment and ignite the most profound revelations. It’s in these moments of connection and reflection where Jewell’s writing truly shines. The delicate yet poignant prose lured me in; I felt every heartbreak, confusion, and flicker of hope. One quote that lingered with me was Laurel’s realization that "grief is a monster," a sentiment that encapsulates the essence of this tale.
The pacing of the novel was spot on; while it takes time to unfold the layers of mystery surrounding Ellie’s disappearance, the gradual build-up only heightened the suspense. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat, each page igniting new questions. The emotional depth Jewell infuses into her characters makes them feel deeply human; as one reviewer lamented, the story was unsettling yet utterly captivating.
Of course, I can’t ignore some readers’ critiques on pacing; for some, it felt a tad slow at the start. I found it wise, as it allowed for character development, which ultimately enriched my connection to their journey. It’s a testament to Jewell’s craftsmanship that she builds such complex characters that readers can empathize with their flaws and fears.
The darkness and complexity of human nature explored in this novel aren’t easy—but it is this very challenge that makes Then She Was Gone a profound read. I left the story with a lingering sense of both despair and revelation, pondering the fragile thread of our relationships.
I would recommend this book to readers who crave emotional depth and enjoy psychological thrillers that explore the nuances of human connection and loss. Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Jewell or discovering her work for the first time, prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey that forces you to confront the messy realities of life and grief.
So if you’re in the mood for a book that will keep you engaged, provoke thought, and perhaps even leave a bittersweet aftertaste, I highly suggest picking up Then She Was Gone. It’s a haunting tale that will stick with you long after the final page is turned.
You can find Then She Was Gone: A Novel here >>