Witch Words

What makes Long Way Back a great summer read: It’s a good one to hit the open road for an adventure, whether it is something to read while you are on a road trip or traveling with the characters here on their experience. Either way, it will be one thrilling adventure

What is going on between the covers

Charlie creates what she thinks is the perfect Instagram life for herself and her teenage daughter Eva as a way for them to bond. The two traveled the county in their airstream while chronicling their adventures. She thinks she is being smart by not posting their faces and not identifying their location till they have moved on until Eva goes missing. She begins to realize the cost of media fame.

My Two Cents

I am not a big fan of the Instagram storyline, but Nicole Baart gives us something different here than those overused dark sides of social media tropes. Themes of the danger of parents sharing information about their children are explored, opening up questions about our children’s privacy. Nicole Baart weaves in themes of mother/daughter relationships while opening up questions of how dependent a mother is on their children for their happiness and keeping their adult children dependent on them instead of encouraging them to venture out on their own. There are also themes of how well you know your children and the secrets they keep from you to have independence from their parents.

The story is about more than what I have mentioned. It takes a surprising turn that I am sure no one will see coming. I have plenty to say about that, but I won’t because I like to avoid spoilers. It was fresh, timely, different, bold, and explored well.

There is a thrilling element with the danger for the characters. The tension and suspense increased to the exciting climax and showdown with a believability element that could make you think it can happen that way in the story. The conclusion is rewarding and pays off, making it a satisfying read.

If you are out on your own adventure, Always take the way back!!

I received a copy from the publisher through Edelweiss