53 pages • 1 hour read
The Life We Bury
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Book Brief
303
Novel • Fiction
Minnesota • Contemporary
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens, Joe Talbert, a college student, seeks to write the biography of Carl Iverson, a Vietnam veteran convicted of a young girl's murder 30 years ago. As Joe investigates with the help of his neighbor Lila Nash, they uncover evidence suggesting Carl's innocence and expose the real murderer, all while Joe manages personal challenges involving his brother Jeremy and their abusive mother. The narrative includes sensitive topics such as abuse and violence.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Emotional
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
173,936 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Allen Eskens’ The Life We Bury receives high praise for its gripping narrative and well-developed characters, particularly the protagonist Joe. Reviewers commend its suspenseful plot and emotional depth. However, some criticize the pacing and certain predictable elements in the story. Overall, it’s lauded as a compelling mystery that balances intrigue with human drama effectively.
Who Should Read The Life We Bury?
Readers who relish suspenseful mysteries with deep character development will enjoy The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens. Fans of works like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Sharp Objects will find Eskens' novel equally compelling, with its combination of crime, human drama, and an intricate plot.
173,936 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
303
Novel • Fiction
Minnesota • Contemporary
2014
Adult
18+ years
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