Charlie, Presumed Dead

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: January 12, 2016

Review

Lena and Aubrey, the girlfriends, meet for the first time at Charlie's funeral. Charlie has been in an airplane explosion and presumed dead. Neither girl knew about the other, but they each believe that Charlie is still alive and develop a rocky partnership as they piece together their different experiences with Charlie. Their complex involvement with Charlie, their own secrets and various clues leads them through Europe and India to a sinister end that seems like a cliff hanger. Lena, Aubrey and Charlie's character are exposed at a pace that will keep readers turning the pages. Do we really know who we are dating? Is a relationship that feels safe really dangerous? In Bangkok, the girls are introduced to the ladyboy culture. There is some alcohol and drug use as part of the jet-setting culture. Heltzel provides vivid details of the various exotic settings along that way that adds a rich layer to this psychological thriller.

Overall Book Score: excellent