Mitzner builds his story and his characters slowly, and the reader begins to feel part of this town and the people in it. It took me a little time to get into the rhythm of the book, because he spent the first third jumping back and forth between the present and the months that led up to it. Once I realized what he was doing though, I couldn't put it down. His ability to show his character's emotions kept me mesmerized. Jackie's feelings for Jonathan and fear of her husband were both strongly depicted, and Jonathan's character growth was interesting to watch develop. Mitzner does not present his protagonist as a warm and cuddly character, but the reader slowly begins to understand him.
There is definitely suspense in this book, as we watch Jackie's abusive husband become more terrifying and realize that both Jonathan and Jackie will do anything to stop his violent behavior. The tension builds, and Mitzner, once again, delivers a novel that keeps the reader anxiously turning pages until a satisfying conclusion.
- Beverly
Publisher - Gallery Books
Date of Publication - April 5, 2016