Review of Long Time Gone by Charlie Donlea
Sometimes, the books that grab us aren’t just about their covers or the catchy blurbs on the back. For me, Long Time Gone by Charlie Donlea drew me in with its intriguing premise—what happens when a woman discovers her whole identity is built on a lie? As a lover of thrillers that mess with your mind and keep you on your toes, I was excited to dive into this suspense-laden tale.
At the heart of the story is Dr. Sloan Hastings, a thirty-year-old woman who has just wrapped up her clinical pathology residency and is beginning her training as a medical examiner in Raleigh, North Carolina. While she embarks on a school project involving forensic genealogy, she sends in her DNA—an act that catapults her into a whirlwind of discovery and danger when she learns that she is actually Charlotte Margolis, a baby who went missing almost three decades ago from Cedar Creek, Nevada. This immediately gripped me; the idea that our futures could be shattered by a simple test feels haunting yet all too relatable in today’s world.
The themes of identity and family are deftly woven through the alternating timelines of the narrative, which effectively heightens the suspense. Donlea develops Sloan’s character with nuance, allowing us to feel her internal conflict as she grapples with her newfound identity amidst the chaos of media frenzy and family expectations.
The writing style is crisp and engaging, making it hard to put the book down. I particularly appreciated how Donlea shifts from present-day intrigue to the haunting events of 1995, steadily unveiling layers of secrets that bind the characters together. The pacing is just right—fast enough to keep the adrenaline pumping, yet thoughtful enough to allow for meaningful character development.
One moment that stood out was when Sloan finally meets her biological family. The mix of joy and trepidation was palpable, making me reflect on my own experiences of family and belonging. This is precisely the kind of emotional depth I crave in my thrillers.
Moreover, the subplot regarding the mysterious death of Sheriff Sandy Stamos adds an additional layer of complexity. His unsolved case intertwines with Sloan’s quest, enriching the narrative. Donlea skillfully sketches the socio-political intricacies of Cedar Creek, making the setting almost a character in its own right.
As I turned the final pages of Long Time Gone, I found myself not just entertained but also reflective. This novel is a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys unraveling family secrets, intricate plots, or thrillers that blur the lines between past and present. If you’ve ever wondered how your family’s history influences who you are today, this book will resonate deeply.
In conclusion, Long Time Gone is more than a thriller; it’s a compelling exploration of identity, legacy, and the truths we uncover about ourselves along the way. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of the genre and anyone looking for a gripping read that will keep them guessing until the last moment.
Thanks to NetGalley, Charlie Donlea, and Kensington for a copy of this thrilling novel! You can follow my reviews and join me for more literary discussions at Reviews by Barb Saffer.
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