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Book Review of Don't Go

Don't Go
Don't Go
Author: Lisa Scottoline
Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Book Type: Hardcover
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Not only is Don't Go Scottoline's 20th novel, but it's the first time she's writing from the point of view of a man. To my delight, I quickly fell in love with Don't Go and was fully engrossed in the plot from start to finish.

Many of Scottoline's recent books have focused on relationships between family members, and it's something at which she excels. What really struck me was her effortless ability to construct magnificently descriptive prose that spoke to me. It not only carried me through the story, but it made me feel what the characters felt. Unlike some of her contemporaries, Scottoline's writing comes off like she does in real life: Genuine.

This novel focuses on the tumultuous life of Dr. Mike Scanlon. His wife dies while he's serving as an army doctor in Afghanistan, and he's forced to pick up the pieces when he gets home. He not only has to come to terms with his wife's passing, he has to learn how to be a father to his daughter, who barely remembers him. It's an emotionally-charged tale that's peppered with Scottoline's signature humor. And it's filled with unpredictable twists and turns that kept me flipping through pages late into the night.

Don't Go was an excellent read, and I highly recommend it. It's a compelling thriller filled with nuanced characters you can't help but care about. Most of all, I loved how this novel had a theme weaved throughout. In addition to being the title of the book, the phrase "don't go" is something Mike Scanlon hears and ponders during his journey. It's a beautifully executed storytelling device that makes the title feel inspired and the plot cohesive.