Twenty-Seven Minutes by Ashley Tate

*** Review ***

Ashley Tate’s debut novel, Twenty-Seven Minutes, is a propulsive exploration of grief, guilt, and the corrosive power of secrets in a small town. The narrative kicks off with a gripping scene, drawing readers into the mystery of why it took Grant Dean twenty-seven minutes to call for help after the car accident that claimed his sister’s life. The anticipation for the big reveal propels the story forward, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

While the first half of the book captivates with its intensity and desire for answers, the second half loses a bit of steam for some readers. Personally, I found myself feeling slightly deceived by one aspect of the narrative. However, Tate shines in portraying the enduring impact of loss and guilt on a close-knit community. The novel adeptly navigates the complexities of grief, intertwining the lives of characters marked by tragedy and secrets.

One commendable aspect of the novel is Tate’s portrayal of the long memory of small towns. Loss, guilt, and hidden truths reverberate through the community, affecting not only those directly involved in the accident but also close friends and family members. The narrative is peppered with twists and turns, maintaining a level of intrigue as readers question who knows more about that fateful night and what roles they played.

The cast of characters adds depth to the story, featuring both likable and unlikable individuals. This dynamic keeps the narrative interesting as readers ponder who holds crucial information and who is concealing secrets. Tate’s debut showcases promise, with a well-executed mystery that keeps readers engaged.

The writing is both mysterious and intriguing, with a level of tension that is just right for an enjoyable read. Despite the flaw of not being able to relate to or like any of the characters, the book delivers a compelling experience, and the ending provides a satisfying conclusion with an unexpected twist.

The book’s synopsis initially piqued my interest, and the plot delivered on its promise with numerous twists and turns. The characters are well-developed, each offering a unique perspective that seamlessly weaves into the narrative. Although my inability to connect with the characters was a drawback, the overall quality of the book remained intact, offering a decent and enjoyable read. The unexpected twist in the ending added an extra layer of satisfaction to the conclusion.

Tate’s storytelling unfolds over three days, employing multiple perspectives to shed light on the lives of those closest to Phoebe and Wyatt. The examination of Grant and Becca’s relationship, marred by survivor’s guilt, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. The author deftly handles the suspense, meting out clues that build tension from the first page to the last. The result is a dark psychological thriller that captivates with its fast-paced narrative and well-crafted characters.

In conclusion, Twenty-Seven Minutes is a promising debut that delivers a compelling mystery with unexpected twists. Ashley Tate’s exploration of grief and secrets within a small town showcases her storytelling prowess, leaving readers eager for more from this talented author.