Place Last Seen

This is a book that will stay with you well beyond the final page. This is not escapist reading. This novel deals with the blunt reality that we will all, in our time, have to deal with fear and grief. Yet, although the subject is somber and thought provoking, the author handles it adroitly, interweaving just enough humor and humanity to keep it from slipping into mushy sentimentality. It is an uplifting book that celebrates the indominable human spirit. A must read for anyone who has the courage to love.

An excellent novel. Lovely writing and fine dialogue. Infact,it rang so true, it felt more like nonfiction. I agree with onereviewer who warned parents. The emotional power of this book -and the anxiety it produces - is powerful. A very confident novel, an ultra-confident debut. Mink was moved.

The author of this book seems to have had perfect pitch when she created her characters. Every one of the variety of people in this story, the mom, dad, brother, grandmother, of the lost child, the searchers, etc. are believable, complex people. The dialogue is dead-on, and the conflicts are real. It was heartfelt without sentimentality. Very good novel.

I just finished reading Charlotte's book. Couldn't put it down. It is thoughtful, well-written, gripping, and has an extremely tight story line. Even the minor characters are well developed. Leaves one with lots of questions, what ifs, could ifs, should ifs, and thoughts---like a good book should. (I have recently read so many books that started strongly and ended as damp squibs that it was refreshing to read one that ends strongly.) I really recommend it.

As trite as it sounds, I was glued to this book from the very first line. The story moves swiftly, and the sense of restrained panic experienced by the family of the missing child feels authentic. The prose is clean and at times, quite beautiful. If I had children, I expect I would describe this book as nightmarish -which is a compliment. The author truly seems to have a keen understanding of the emotions her characters go through during their ordeal, and she certainly seems to understand the fine points of a search and rescue mission in the wilderness. It's an impressive book, let alone first novel.