Then She Was Gone Book Review: A Gripping Psychological Thriller
“Then She Was Gone” by Lisa Jewell is a captivating and suspenseful psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. With its well-developed characters, intricate plot twists, and intense storytelling, this novel is a must-read for fans of the genre.
The story revolves around the disappearance of fifteen-year-old Ellie Mack, who vanished without a trace ten years ago. The aftermath of her disappearance shattered her family, leaving her mother Laurel devastated and her siblings struggling to find closure. As years pass, the case goes cold, and Laurel’s hope dwindles. However, everything changes when she meets a charming man named Floyd and begins to unravel the secrets that lie beneath the surface.
Lisa Jewell masterfully weaves together multiple narratives, shifting between past and present, to build a story that is equal parts heart-wrenching and chilling. The characters are incredibly well-written, with each one having their own distinct voice and motivation. Laurel, as the grieving mother, is relatable and sympathetic, while Floyd’s enigmatic nature keeps readers guessing about his true intentions. The supporting characters, such as Ellie’s sister and her new boyfriend, add depth and complexity to the overall storyline.
One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to keep readers guessing. The plot twists and turns in unexpected ways, making it nearly impossible to predict what will happen next. Just when you think you have it all figured out, Jewell throws another curveball, leaving you second-guessing everything you thought you knew. This element of surprise creates a sense of unease and suspense that keeps the pages turning.
Additionally, the exploration of themes such as loss, grief, and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones adds an emotional depth to the story. Jewell delves into the psychological aspects of trauma and the impact it can have on individuals and families, making the narrative all the more compelling.
Now, let’s uncover five unique facts about “Then She Was Gone”:
1. The inspiration for the story came from Lisa Jewell’s own teenage daughter, who often asked her mother what she would do if she went missing one day.
2. The author intentionally created flawed characters to highlight the complex nature of human behavior and the choices we make under pressure.
3. Lisa Jewell conducted extensive research on missing persons cases and the psychological effects of long-term disappearance to ensure the authenticity of the story.
4. The novel’s setting, a small town in England, was chosen to emphasize the claustrophobic and insular nature of the community, where everyone knows everyone else’s business.
5. “Then She Was Gone” has been praised for its realistic portrayal of grief and the impact it can have on both individuals and families, earning it numerous accolades and a loyal fan base.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is “Then She Was Gone” suitable for readers who are sensitive to graphic content?
Yes, while the novel deals with dark themes, it does not contain explicit or graphic content.
2. Are there any trigger warnings for this book?
Yes, some readers may find the themes of abduction and loss distressing.
3. Does the story have a satisfying conclusion?
Yes, the novel ties up loose ends and provides closure for the main storyline.
4. Is this book part of a series?
No, “Then She Was Gone” is a standalone novel.
5. How would you rate the pacing of the book?
The pacing is excellent, with a perfect balance of suspense and character development.
6. Are there any romantic elements in the story?
Yes, there are romantic subplots that add depth to the overall narrative.
7. Can you recommend similar books to “Then She Was Gone”?
Fans of Lisa Jewell may enjoy her other novels, such as “The Family Upstairs” and “I Found You.” Additionally, psychological thrillers like “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn and “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins might also appeal to readers.
8. Is the book suitable for young adult readers?
While the main character is a teenager, “Then She Was Gone” is more suitable for adult readers due to its dark themes.
9. How long does it take to read the book?
The average reader can finish “Then She Was Gone” in about a week, depending on their reading speed.
10. Are there any supernatural elements in the story?
No, the novel is entirely grounded in reality.
11. Is the book more character-driven or plot-driven?
It strikes a perfect balance between character development and an engaging plot.
12. Can you read this book as a standalone, or should you read Lisa Jewell’s previous novels first?
“Then She Was Gone” can be enjoyed as a standalone novel without any prior knowledge of the author’s works.
13. Does the book have a happy ending?
While the ending may be bittersweet, it provides closure and resolution for the main storyline.
In conclusion, “Then She Was Gone” is a gripping psychological thriller that will leave readers guessing until the final pages. With its well-crafted characters, intricate plot twists, and exploration of profound themes, Lisa Jewell’s novel is a must-read for any fan of the genre. Prepare to be captivated from start to finish as you unravel the secrets surrounding Ellie Mack’s disappearance and discover the shocking truth.
