These Things Hidden

Oh. My. Goodness.  Heather Gudenkauf draws you in and has you begging for answers before you finish the first page of this gripping novel.  These Things Hidden explores the difficulties surrounding 21 year old Allison and her release from prison.  By court order, Allison moves into a halfway house in Iowa.   Once her hometown, Linden Falls is a small place where your past is always sure to haunt you… especially when it involves heinous crime.  This is a book that makes you want to kiss your babies, hug your parents, and never trust another human being.  (Don’t worry.  That feeling passes. ;) 

Let’s break it down…

*Note:  Like The Weight of Silence (also by Gudenkauf), each chapter is titled for and written from the perspective of one of the four main characters.  I couldn't read books in this format all the time, but it is a pleasant change every now and then.  

Allison

Once the perfect daughter, student, and athlete, Allison has just been released after serving five years of a ten year prison sentence.  Her past catches up with her in unexpected ways as she learns to live in the real world again.  Only 21 years old, this character’s youthfulness will draw you in; however, along with the residents of Linden Falls, you’ll find yourself disliking her for her past.  

Brynn

As Allison’s younger sibling, Brynn was always forced to live in the shadow of her sister’s greatness.  That is, until the day she was forced to live in the shadow of her sister’s horrific crime.  Gudenkauf’s writing will make you feel torn right alongside Brynn as she struggles with the choices she must make now that Allison is free.    

Claire

Wife, mother, and bookstore owner, Claire is a character whose feelings you’ll share throughout this book.  You’ll feel the love for her store, the love for her son, and the sadness she carries from her past.  

Charm

Although you may question some of her actions, Charm will have your respect during the course of this story.  She is a full time nursing student with a flaky mother and a dying ex-stepfather who was kind enough to take her in years earlier.  When Charm’s selfish mother discovers a secret, will the lives of others be ruined?

RATINGS

Writing Style:   8/10

Characters:     8.5/10

 Storyline:        9/10

OVERALL:  8.5/10

Whether you love suspense novels or usually pass them by, you must read These Things Hidden.  Suspense fans are sure to love it; and those who aren’t fans just may be after this extraordinary read!

*Kindle Users:  Get it here!*