A mother living a parent’s worst nightmare, a cop struggling to come to terms with her past and a woman allegedly wronged by the justice system. This is Forgotten, the sixth novel by Australian author Nicole Trope.
When Malia left five-month-old baby Zach in the backseat asleep one morning when she stopped for milk, she didn’t expect to return and find her whole world shattered. In the five minutes that he was out of her sight, Zach was snatched. So begins the race to find him before it’s too late. But when all she knows is proven false, who is there to trust?
Regarded by contemporaries and critics alike as “the Australian equivalent of Jodi Picoult”, it’s hard to imagine that a novel of Trope’s would be anything other than a best-seller, regardless of my opinion. As a fan of her American counterpart, I approached Forgotten with cautious excitement, unsure if she would indeed live up to the high praise she has garnered.
The comparison may come from Trope’s ability to shine a light on the human psyche, but really, her style is utterly unique. Part literary fiction, part thriller Forgotten is completely entertaining and often quite light, despite the dark themes. Only a few pages in and I was hooked.
With this book, Trope holds readers in the palm of her hand, weaving a compelling tale that will satisfy readers of various genres as she draws us in like only the best storytelling magicians can. Skilfully, she combines the stories of three complex and strong women into one, creating a plot told with a heavy dose of human heart, forcing one to question what they would do in similar circumstances. Is the answer truly black and white?
Once you start Forgotten, you’re in for the long haul … and believe me, it’s an awesome ride.
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