Before I Let Go

 Before I Let Go by Marieke Nijkamp

A Book Review by Kianna from the Altona Branch

Genre: Mystery/Thriller | Pages: 349 | Stars: 5/5
Tears: 4/5 | Empowering: 4/5 | Thought-Provoking: 5/5

Would you recommend this book to someone, why or why not?

I would definitely recommend "Before I Let Go". It's a really powerful and emotional read, and I think it's a great choice for anyone who likes mystery/thrillers or is looking for a thought-provoking story. The writing is very engaging, and the characters are well-developed. 

How did the author keep you interested throughout the story?

What really kept me interested was the way Marieke Nijkamp wove together the different story lines and didn't give away too much too quickly. It was a slow burn, but once it picked up, I was hooked. The author also did a great job of exploring the complexities of the characters and their emotions, which made it feel very real and immersive.

How did this book challenge or change your perspective or opinion on something?

Reading 'Before I Let Go' made me think about the way we process trauma, and how it can affect people's lives. It challenged my perspective on the idea that survivors of abuse or traumatic events are somehow "broken" or that they're to blame for what happened to them. The book showed me that it's so much more complex, and that survivors deserve compassion, understanding, and support. 

It also helped me realize that people's perceptions of reality can be really skewered, and just because someone seems to believe something, doesn't mean it's true. This book made me think about the dangers of blindly following authority or ideology, and how that can lead to some pretty dark consequences. it was a real eye-opening read, for sure. 

How does this book compare to other books by the same author or in the same genre?

'Before I Let Go' is my personal favourite book by Marieke Nijkamp, and I'd say it's also her most intense, thought-provoking, and well-written book. From the few books of hers that I've read, I know she has a knack for crafting stories that explore complex themes and emotions. It think that's what makes 'Before I Let Go' so compelling - it's a really raw and honest portrayal of trauma and it's aftermath.

Who was your favourite character and why?

I really loved Kyra's character. She's so strong and resilient, and she's just trying to survive in a really tough world. I think what resonated with me the most was her desire to hold on to her sense of self, even when everything around her was falling apart. 

Who was the character you disagreed with the most, and why?

I very much disagreed with the citizens of Lost, and how they treated Kyra. Her entire childhood, she was ignored simply because they didn't understand her. Everyone was afraid of her because she was different. As it says on the book cover, "In Lost, different comes at a price." 

But, as soon Kyra becomes useful to them, they treat her like a god of sorts. Still, they never fully accept her for who she is, and instead use her for their own gain. This is what makes me dislike the people of Lost. The entire story, all they care about is themselves, and Kyra ends up being the one who suffers the consequences.

How did you feel about the ending? Was it satisfying or did you want more?

I think the ending was really satisfying, but also a bit open to interpretation. It didn't tie everything up with a bow, but I think that's part of what makes the book so thought-provoking. It left me thinking about the characters and themes long after I finished reading.

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