A review by mxmaxreads
The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I devoured this. This is the kind of crime fiction I long for. A diverse set of characters, tackles important themes such as misogyny and
police corruption
. It has a slow build suspense wise, but when the action kicks in, you’re hooked. I loved hearing the POVs from both the main characters, Chelsey and Ellie. The author allows some glimpses into the perspective of the art therapist who sees Ellie upon her return which I loved. And the writing was great—it felt like if Fredrik Backman wrote a thriller at times (but the author does have a unique writing style). Such empathy was put into this dark yet gripping novel. And the twists at the end will surprise you, especially one part (I’m usually great at figuring out the endings in crime fiction, but even I was shocked and blown away). Highly recommend this one! (This does contain brief mentions of sexual assault/rape, but is not too descriptive or graphic, just as a warning.) 

…the love I had for her would transcend the confines of my body. That one day, she would run wild across a meadow toward a bright future. And I’d be a distant memory…This was the only way to set us both free. 


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