This new release about a man missing in a terrorist attack after an explosion in Penn Station is not quite a thriller but rather a fast-paced novel dealing with the aftermath.

Julia Swann speaks to her husband on his way home from an interview, only to have the call dropped.  Fearing the unknown, Julia does everything in her power to make contact again.  When the news reports a terrorist attack, she is gripped by fear and uncertainty as to if her husband, Michael, survived.

I will say that it took me about a quarter to one-third of the book before I was completely invested.  However, once I was, it seemed the pages were turning themselves.  The story alternated between Julia and Michael.  It was also a story of a marriage, and the readers were treated to their connection before kids as a way to come to grips with the current reality they are both facing.

I think my favorite part of this novel was the epilogue, where Reardon was able to insert political commentary, all the while remaining true to the fictionalized story and the thoughts of the characters.

Book clubs will also find this to be an engaging read with lots of hot topics to discuss.  It’s timely, especially given our political climate, and I imagine everyone would act differently if they were in Julia’s shoes.

My thanks to Dutton for the review copy.

About the author: Bryan Reardon is the author of the New York Times best selling novel, Finding Jake. For the past decade, he has also worked as a freelance writer specializing in medical communications, and as a ghost writer. He co-wrote Ready, Set, Play with retired NFL player and ESPN analyst Mark Schlereth and Cruel Harvest. Prior to becoming a full-time writer, Bryan worked for the State of Delaware for over a decade, starting in the Office of the Governor. He holds a BA in psychology from the University of Notre Dame and lives in West Chester, Pennsylvania, with his wife, kids, and rescue dog, Simon.

Thanks to the publisher, I have one copy to give away to a lucky reader.  Enter on the Rafflecopter.  U.S. only, please.
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