
02 Feb Book Review: Tall Bones by Anna Bailey
I recently picked up Tall Bones by Anna Bailey, intrigued by its promise of a gripping psychological thriller set in a small American town. As someone who enjoys character-driven stories with well-researched plots, I was eager to dive into this debut novel.
What’s it about?
Set in the tight-knit community of Whistling Ridge, Colorado, Tall Bones centers on the disappearance of seventeen-year-old Abigail “Abi” Blake. After attending a party at a local landmark known as the Tall Bones—a circle of white stones on the outskirts of town—Abi vanishes without a trace. Her sudden disappearance sends shockwaves through the town, unearthing long-buried secrets and tensions among its residents.
The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, primarily focusing on Abi’s best friend, Emma Alvarez, and the Blake family. Emma, who was the last person to see Abi that night, is consumed by guilt and determination to uncover the truth. Her quest leads her to form unlikely alliances, including with Rat, a Romanian immigrant living in a local trailer park, and Hunter, the son of a prominent town figure. Together, they navigate the town’s undercurrents of prejudice and hypocrisy in their search for answers.
The Blake family is portrayed as deeply dysfunctional. Samuel Blake, the patriarch, is an abusive alcoholic who uses religious fervor to justify his actions, instilling fear in his wife, Dolly, and their children—Noah, Abi, and Jude. Dolly, trapped in a loveless marriage, struggles with her own sense of failure and desperation. The children, each bearing the scars of their upbringing, grapple with their identities and desires for escape.
As the investigation into Abi’s disappearance progresses, the facade of Whistling Ridge begins to crumble. The town’s veneer of piety, largely upheld by figures like Pastor Lewis, reveals underlying bigotry, oppression, and brutality. Long-held grudges and resentments surface, painting a vivid picture of a community shackled by its past and resistant to change.
Through flashbacks and shifting timelines, Bailey gradually unveils the complex web of relationships and secrets that define the town. Each character’s backstory is meticulously explored, providing insight into their motivations and the societal pressures they face. The narrative structure keeps readers engaged, as revelations are strategically placed to maintain suspense and deepen the emotional impact.
What This Chick Thinks
Diving into Tall Bones, I was immediately struck by Anna Bailey’s evocative prose and her ability to create a palpable sense of place. The depiction of Whistling Ridge is so vivid that the town itself feels like a character, with its oppressive atmosphere and simmering tensions.
The characters are richly drawn, each grappling with their own demons and desires. Emma’s determination and vulnerability make her a compelling protagonist, and her interactions with Rat and Hunter add depth to the narrative. The Blake family’s portrayal is particularly haunting, highlighting the devastating effects of abuse and religious fanaticism.
Bailey masterfully explores themes of prejudice, hypocrisy, and the claustrophobia of small-town life. The novel delves into the darkness that can lurk beneath a community’s surface, challenging the notion of outward appearances versus hidden truths.
The pacing is deliberate, allowing for a thorough exploration of character dynamics and societal issues. While some readers might find the subject matter heavy, the narrative is compelling and thought-provoking, shedding light on the complexities of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power and prejudice.
Final Thoughts
Tall Bones is a haunting and powerful debut that lingers long after the final page. Anna Bailey has crafted a nuanced and emotionally resonant story that delves deep into the human psyche and the intricacies of community dynamics. For its compelling characters, atmospheric setting, and unflinching examination of societal issues, I’d rate it an 9.5 out of 10.
Try it if you like:
- “The Dry” by Jane Harper
A suspenseful mystery set in a small Australian town, exploring hidden secrets and community tensions. - “Sharp Objects” by Gillian Flynn
A dark psychological thriller that delves into family dynamics and the haunting effects of past traumas. - “Everything I Never Told You” by Celeste Ng
A poignant exploration of family, identity, and the pressures of societal expectations in a close-knit community.
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