The Lost Man

Synopsis:

Generations have grown up with the mystical tale of the Stockman's grave but no one actually knows who is buried there or how he met his untimely demise. The childhood tale suddenly becomes real for the Bright family when a body is found in front of the grave.

Nathan Bright is the oldest of three brothers who have all grown up in the rough conditions and harsh labor that comes with living and running a station in the Queensland outback. A loner and outcast, Nathan lives with his past decisions on his own station several miles from the family land where he grew up. When middle brother, Cameron is found dead next to the Stockman's grave, Nathan suddenly has to be a part of the family again and all the toxicity that comes along with it. Despite evidence to the contrary, Cameron's death is ruled an accident. Nathan knows something else is going on but should he go digging for answers? Or should what really happened remain buried under the Stockman's grave?

Suspense Characteristics:

Dark menacing atmosphere: The story kicks off with a heavy and dark atmosphere with the death of Cameron Bright. His body is found by his two brothers, Nathan and Bub. Bub was supposed to meet Cameron the night before his death but never showed. His answer as to his whereabouts is shaky and very suspicious. The reader has their first suspect within the first few pages.

Soft-edge vs. Hard-edge: The Lost Man would be considered a soft-edge suspense novel. Harper focuses on developing a sense of place, character building, and background knowledge.

Pace: The book begins with action: the death of Cameron Bright and the consequences to the family. The story goes back and forth between past and present, filling in the gaps of the story. The reader learns that first impressions aren't always right, even going as far as to cast suspicion on each character in turn. The toxic family dynamic creates a low hum of stress and anxiety, which adds to the slow burn and build of the plot. The how and why of Cameron's demise is finally revealed, leaving the reader surprised despite the intricate character building.

Empathy: The reader learns early on that Nathan Bright has had a difficult few years and can empathize with him, despite the fact that his troubles were brought on by his past actions and decisions. He is a likeable guy, who has his family's best interests at heart. His interactions with his son, Zander, also endear him to the reader.

Personal side note: I listened to The Lost Man on audio and it was extremely well done! Steven Shanahan has narrated all three of Harper's books. It really adds to the experience that he's an Australian narrator!

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