“Twenty Years Later” by Charlie Donlea
Every so often, a thriller comes along that grabs you by the ba… uhh… lapels. It yanks you into its twisted plot like a kid in a candy store, and leaves you questioning everything you thought you knew about justice, memory, and the passage of time. Charlie Donlea’s “Twenty Years Later” is one such novel. It masterfully mixes the cold case genre with psychological mind games, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good puzzle and doesn’t mind losing a few nights of sleep over it.
Confession time.. I was a little bit bored throughout a good portion of this book. I let my inner “know-it-all” out to play and was convinced that I knew where the author was going with the twist. Wroooong! So-so wrong! In fact, after I turned the last page, I immediately went back to the beginning and started the book fresh; locking my inner “know-it-nothing” smugly back in her cage.
The Premise
“Twenty Years Later” kicks off with a scenario that instantly draws you in. A high-profile murder case that has gone cold for two decades is suddenly thrust back into the spotlight. The protagonist, Avery Mason, is a determined and savvy television producer, always on the hunt for stories that will captivate her audience. When she stumbles upon new evidence related to the unsolved murder of Victoria Ford, a victim of the 9/11 attacks, Avery sees an opportunity not just for a compelling segment, but for justice.
Avery Mason: The Relentless Investigator
Avery Mason is not your average heroine. She’s sharp, resourceful, and possesses an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth—like a dog with a bone or me with a bag of cookies. Donlea paints her as a complex character, one with her own secrets and motivations, which adds depth to her relentless pursuit of the story. As Avery digs deeper into Victoria Ford’s past, she uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and hidden agendas, each revelation more shocking than the last.
Victoria Ford: The Victim with a Voice
Victoria Ford, even in death, is a character that resonates deeply. Her story is one of tragedy and mystery. Accused of the brutal murder of her lover, Ford’s life was marred by scandal and speculation. The novel does an excellent job of portraying Victoria not just as a victim, but as a multifaceted individual whose life and death were shrouded in layers of complexity. As Avery peels back these layers, the reader is drawn into a narrative that is as heartbreaking as it is intriguing.
The Art of the Cold Case
One of the standout elements of “Twenty Years Later” is how the author handles the cold case aspect. He is meticulous in the way he lays out the investigation, balancing the present-day hunt for answers with flashbacks that provide crucial context. This dual timeline approach keeps the narrative fresh and engaging, allowing readers to piece together the mystery alongside Avery… however wrong they may be… *insert giant eyeroll at myself.
The tension builds steadily, with each chapter bringing new clues and questions, maintaining that sense of urgency necessary to propel the story forward.
Beyond the thrill of the chase, “Twenty Years Later” explores the themes of redemption, the impact of trauma, and the relentless march of time like a parade that never ends. Donlea’s exploration of these themes is subtle yet poignant, adding an emotional depth that hits you right in the feels. The novel prompts readers to reflect on how the past shapes our present and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets—like hiding chocolate from your kids or pretending you never had a perm that made your head look like a lightbulb.
A Masterclass in Suspense- Twenty Years Later
This was the first book I have read by Charlie Donlea. I think his writing is sharp. It’s evocative. And he definitely has a knack for building suspense and taking you on one hell of a ride. His characters are well-drawn, and the dialogue crackles with authenticity. The novel’s pacing is pretty impeccable, with twists and turns that are clearly as unexpected as they are satisfying. “Twenty Years Later” is a testament to Donlea’s skill as a storyteller, a masterclass in crafting a thriller that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
“Twenty Years Later” is more than just a mystery novel; it’s a profound exploration of human nature and the shadows that linger over our lives. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Charlie Donlea or new to his work, this book is sure to captivate and entertain. It’s a journey into the heart of a mystery, one that will leave you questioning the nature of truth and the ghosts of the past long after you’ve turned the final page.
If you still need to grab your copy of this book you can get it here on Amazon. Or get it for free when you sign up for a free trial from Audible.
Until next time, keep it brash, keep it bookish and as always, keep it true to beautiful you!
