49 pages • 1 hour read
The Lost Man
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Book Brief
362
Novel • Fiction
Australian Outback • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Lost Man by Jane Harper, Nathan Bright lives in the Australian outback and investigates his brother Cam's mysterious death near a landmark called the stockman’s grave, fearing the culprit might be a family member. As they delve deeper, Nathan and his son Xander uncover buried family secrets, revealing that Cam had a darker side, ultimately reconnecting with each other and their community amidst the tragedy. The book contains depictions of sexual assault, physical and psychological abuse, death by suicide, and abortion.
Mysterious
Dark
Contemplative
Melancholic
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
126,649 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jane Harper’s The Lost Man receives praise for its compelling narrative, atmospheric setting, and nuanced character development. Critics commend the author’s ability to intertwine mystery with profound family dynamics. Some reviewers note a slow pace in parts, but the novel's tension and emotional depth keep readers engaged. An evocative, well-crafted mystery.
Who Should Read The Lost Man?
Fans of gripping, character-driven mysteries set in desolate landscapes will find themselves captivated by The Lost Man by Jane Harper. Similar in atmosphere to Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Tana French's In the Woods, this novel is ideal for readers who appreciate complex family dynamics, psychological depth, and a haunting sense of place.
126,649 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Xander Bright
Xander Bright
Nathan's 16-year-old son who lives in Brisbane with his mother. Despite a strained relationship with Nathan, he shows maturity as he supports his father and suggests he move closer.
Bub (Lee) Bright
Bub (Lee) Bright
Nathan's youngest brother, considered the "baby" of the family. Bub grapples with memories of past abuse and seeks to determine his own future away from the family ranch.
Ilse Bright
Ilse Bright
Cam's wife, originally from Holland, who manages the administration of Burley Downs. She shares a past with Nathan and seeks to overcome the effects of an abusive relationship.
Liz Bright
Liz Bright
The mother of Nathan, Cam, and Bub, who survived an abusive marriage. Her experiences shape her desire to break the cycle of trauma within the family.
362
Novel • Fiction
Australian Outback • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
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