Lisa Jewell’s latest novel, Then She Was Gone, is a masterclass in psychological suspense. This gripping thriller follows the story of Laurel, a mother who has been searching for her daughter, Ellie, for 10 years. When a young woman named Clare is found dead, Laurel’s world is turned upside down as she becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Clare’s death.
Jewell’s writing is, as always, superb. Her prose is evocative and engaging, drawing the reader into the world of the story. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with Laurel’s desperation and grief being particularly well-portrayed.
One of the standout aspects of Then She Was Gone is its expertly crafted plot. Jewell expertly weaves together multiple timelines and perspectives, slowly revealing the truth about Clare’s death and the connections between the characters. The twists and turns are expertly paced, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as they piece together the puzzle alongside Laurel.
If there is a criticism to be made, it is that the novel’s pacing can be somewhat uneven at times. Some sections feel a touch slow, as Jewell takes the time to meticulously build the tension and suspense. However, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise exceptional novel.
Then She Was Gone is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that will appeal to fans of Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins, and Tana French. Lisa Jewell has once again demonstrated her mastery of the psychological thriller genre, crafting a novel that is both a page-turner and a deeply moving exploration of the human condition.
