Dare to Remember is skilfully crafted right through into a book which kept me reading hour after hour, with a final stint which had four hours passing in the blink of an eye - a compelling and suspenseful read. Don't expect a blood and guts book (which I dislike) but a careful psychological drama.
Felt great anxiety for the main character Lisa and shed tears in a couple of places. Her trauma unfolds gradually and convincingly and everything that happens around that process is timely and credible. This story contains a very realistic account of PTSD, which I have heard professional psychologists describe and nothing in Susanna's writing struck a discordant note. The experience of reliving trauma was beautifully handled as a key theme for me, with compassion and insight from the author. It seemed well researched right through.
Loved the small details which gave the writing colour and depth. The author uses Lisa’s relative isolation and daily routine to bring a quiet rhythm to the story. Subtle characterisation built a clear picture of each person for me; the therapist, for example, wonderfully named and the dialogue made him so like therapists I’ve met! And Riley: I don’t remember a dog character being so central and so significant as an ally and a comfort to a character.
I also liked the way the author brought in the restorative justice approach which isn’t known about. Hopefully it will become better understood if this book gets the readership it deserves. Strong recommend from me. When's the next one out?