BookView Review

Paine’s latest novel is a taut, unflinching thriller that blends heart-pounding action with sharp social insight. Disgraced marine biologist Mattie’s dead-end job in Florida takes a turn when Lucía, a silent young woman with a branded number on her calf, slips her a cryptic note before being taken away by a dangerous man. Struggling with her past burdens, Mattie decides to track Lucía. Meanwhile, Lucía’s wealthy father hires PI Jack, who is already on the case. As they begin to dig deeper, they unravel a dark and unsettling conspiracy behind Lucia’s abduction.

Paine’s writing is lean and crisp. He keeps the pacing taut while leaving room for moments of real emotional depth. The multi-perspective narrative alternates between various characters’ viewpoints, placing readers directly into the characters’ heads and revealing their inner fears and struggles. Jack’s urgent need to protect, Mattie’s quiet strength, Lucía’s relentless fight for freedom, and Dmitri’s struggle with feelings of despair and insignificance are portrayed with understanding and empathy. The dialogue is sharp, and the characters’ interpersonal dynamic is rooted in authenticity. While the novel doesn’t shy away from the darkest aspects of its subject matter, including human trafficking and violence, Paine approaches them with sensitivity, never crossing into exploitation. Themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human endurance and moral choices are woven skillfully throughout. Riveting and thought-provoking, the novel is impossible to put down.

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