kimily 's review for:

Right Behind You by Lisa Gardner

4.0

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I believe this is the first novel I’ve read by Ms. Gardner, and, based on this book, it won’t be the last. The story is very fast paced, with most of the action (barring flashbacks) occurring within a 24-hour period. I enjoy books that are paced this way, though oftentimes a quickly moving plot equals poorly developed characters. That is not the case here. Sharlah, Quincy, and Rainie are brought to life without the use of long exposition. Additionally, the author’s use of flashbacks helps to flesh out Telly and his foster parents. The reader finds themselves in a position of having a better understanding than the investigators of the relationship between the troubled teen and the Duvalls, who he stands accused of murdering. Even with that knowledge, however, there are still twists and turns that keep the reader off-balance and continually guessing. Not to brag, but I normally figure out twist endings well in advance of the end of the book, but not this time. I had bits and pieces worked out, but was still surprised at the climax. I was also impressed by the obvious research the author did on the mindset of not only long-term foster children, but of children affected by trauma.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fast-paced books with lots of twists and turns.