Question J

[Jonetta]

Josie and Gretchen go to meet Lance Fraley, Noah’s father and find that he’s remarried with two teenage sons. When she tells Noah of the visit, he explodes. What did you make of his reaction considering that Lance provided useful information to the case? Your guesses as to why after all these years they’re still estranged?

[Anita]

His reaction was over the top. In fact, Noah has been so out of character about this whole case, even if it is his mother's murder, that I barely recognize him. I get that dad cheated and basically abandoned his family. That had a profound impact on all of them and it doesn't look like daddy dearest made much effort to repair the relationship.

[Sharon]

I agree with Anita. Noah is dealing with abandonment issues, but his reaction to this and everything else in this book is out of character for him. It is good that this book doesn't introduce Noah, or I wouldn't like him at all.

[Jonetta]

His explosion was confusing. I’m not sure why he reacted like it was a betrayal, like she needed his permission. Something just occurred to me…he’s normally the one that’s got her back. Now the roles are reversed and he’s lashing out. Is he struggling to accept her in this role?

[Anita]

Noah struggled throughout this whole book with every issue presented. His reactions were really off on just about everything. Jonetta is right, he is struggling to accept that he needs the support he usually gives to Josie.