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Twenty-year-old Declan O'Neill has just returned to Brighton after spending a year in America. Since his return, he has been burdened by troubling thoughts, including the fact that he killed two students in North Carolina, as well as the mysterious death of his older brother, Sean. It remains unclear whether Sean's death was a suicide or something else. Declan faces pressure from Suvo, who demands repayment of Sean's debts. This forces Declan into a dangerous decision: either pay the money or transport drugs from Serbia to London. Reluctantly, he chooses the drug run in hopes of escaping Suvo's grip. However, Suvo keeps harassing Declan for more work. As Declan investigates the circumstances surrounding his brother's death, he discovers more evidence suggesting that Suvo may be involved in the events leading up to Sean's demise.
In his novel, Polin examines how past actions shape present behavior. This exploration is particularly evident in Declan, whose backstory is intricately woven into the narrative, clarifying the circumstances that lead to his subsequent actions. Polin adeptly presents Declan's thoughts, feelings, and emotions, fostering a profound connection with readers and deepening their understanding of his experiences. Furthermore, the author investigates Declan's internal conflicts and motivations, offering insights into his psychological landscape. He also addresses the emotional complexities associated with ambiguous circumstances surrounding the death of a loved one, a subject to which readers who have faced similar challenges may relate. The narrative is enriched with numerous twists and turns that create an engaging reading experience and keep readers interested throughout. This multifaceted approach is likely to resonate with a diverse audience, enhancing the book's overall impact.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review