Amanda Brittany writes a powerful story, with excellent characterisation and a gripping plot.
I was instantly drawn to the cover of the book and just knew I had to read 'Traces of Her' before I had even cast my eye over the synopsis! The story opens with a prologue that immediately sets the tone of the book. It is all-consuming and chilling and from this point onwards, Amanda had me totally engrossed in this story.
Told from the perspectives of Rose and Ava, this book crackles with tension. With alternating chapters between Rose in the present, and Ava in the past, Amanda Brittany's cleverly crafted and intriguing plot follows two sisters, Willow and Rose, in Willow's journey to root out the truth, having discovered that she was adopted, also learning that her birth mother, Ava, died in tragic circumstances.
When the irresponsible, flighty Willow disappears to Cornwall, Rose later receives a package from her, containing four Polaroids of different men, and she is sure that Willow is in trouble. Each of the men are possible murder suspects in relation to the death of Willow's mother. And so, their family life begins to unravel, leaving some crucial questions unanswered…who killed Willow’s mother and where is Willow now?
There were a fair few characters in this book that had me baffled, initially, as to exactly how they fitted into the story, although I managed not to become overwhelmed by this. I think it actually enhanced the story and kept me second-guessing precisely to what degree each was involved. I felt an instant connection with the three main players of Rose, Willow and Ava, who were well-drawn and 100% convincing. However, as befits all of the best thrillers, there were some less personable ones, though each had their relevant roles to play (once I had established what they were).
I totally adored Amanda Brittany’s emotive and descriptive writing style. It flowed effortlessly and the narrative was very well structured. 'Traces of Her' was a story that was rammed with suspense, mystery, and twists as it spiralled it way to the surprise denouement. It is a must-read for fans of the psychological thriller genre. A new author for me, Amanda is definitely now on my list of go-to authors and I look forward to reading many more books from her. I read 'Traces of Her' with enormous relish and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my request, from HQ Digital via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.