Book Review: We Were Never Here by Andrea Bartz
As a book blogger, I often find myself drawn to stories that weave suspense into the fabric of everyday relationships. When I picked up We Were Never Here by Andrea Bartz, I was particularly intrigued by the promise of a psychological thriller centered around the simmering turbulence of friendship. With glowing endorsements from Reese Witherspoon and a backdrop of stunning Chilean mountains, I was eager to dive in.
The premise immediately captivated me: two lifelong friends, Emily and Kristen, embark on their annual backpacking trip, only to find their bond tested in the most horrific of ways. When Kristen claims she acted in self-defense after a backpacker is found dead in their hotel room, it’s a gripping setup that had me questioning everything from friendship dynamics to the very definition of loyalty. The eerie parallel to a similar incident from their previous trip only added to the tension, making me ponder whether history indeed has a terrifying way of repeating itself.
What struck me most in Bartz’s writing was her ability to create a palpable sense of unease, akin to the best Hitchcockian tales. The lush descriptions of the Chilean landscape contrasted sharply with the underlying horror, drawing me into Emily’s tumultuous mind as she navigates the aftermath of trauma. There are moments of sharp dialogue and introspective moments that made me reflect on how friendships can become labyrinthine, often leading one down a dark path fueled by shared secrets. Though some readers found Emily’s character somewhat unlikable, I saw layers of complexity in her struggles and profound fear.
Bartz’s pacing kept me on my toes—there’s an urgency that builds as secrets unravel, often leading to twists that left me breathless. While the narrative surged with tension, some elements felt rushed, particularly towards the conclusion, where the intricate setup seemed to hurtle towards a somewhat abrupt finish. Yet, just when I thought I had it all figured out, Bartz delivered a final twist that made me reconsider everything I thought I knew.
A quote that resonated with me reflects the novel’s central theme: "Can we ever truly outrun our past?" This encapsulates the haunting nature of their experiences and the inevitable pull of unresolved guilt and trauma.
In conclusion, We Were Never Here is an engaging read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and intricately woven friendship dynamics. It poses challenging questions about loyalty, truth, and the lengths we go to protect those we care for. If you relish a story that creeps under your skin, urging you to stay awake just to turn another page, then this book is for you. Just be prepared for an unsettling journey that may linger long after you put it down.
So grab a comfy blanket, find a quiet corner, and get ready for a thrilling ride with Emily and Kristen—because once you start, you might find it impossible to look away. Happy reading!
You can find We Were Never Here: A Novel here >>