What Lies Buried - Book Review

"What Lies Buried" by Leslie Kain is a propulsive, mind-bending thriller about how we deal with guilt and psychological trauma. The actor, Drew Lachey, is quoted as saying, "Some secrets are meant to be taken to the grave, and that's what I plan on doing with all mine." Probably a good piece of advice that could have helped our protagonist, Gavin DiMasi, who was struggling with Complex PTSD, guilt, and self-loathing. His life had been very challenging. As a young boy, he competed with his twin brother for their father's attention, but instead of love, his father rewarded him with ridicule and rejection. This constant rejection and emotional abuse had a lasting impact on Gavin, leading to his struggles later in life. Even his relationship with his twin was tumultuous and degrading. 

"Kain's writing style is very unique. She starts, by introducing Chef Gavin DiMasi, who's been struggling with the loss of his twin brother, feeling guilt and confusion as he hears the words of his brother Devon playing in his head, "Dad was right. You're a wimp, a loser. Can't even take care of your wife and kid. You just can't live without me, Twinkie. It sets the book's tone and the darkness of what will come. The narration is complemented by the use of surround sound materials that give more depth to the story. The plot had many unexpected twists and turns, which makes it very engaging. The character development was excellent, not just for the DiMasi Family but also for all the supporting characters.".

Gavin finds himself entangled in a web of family estate matters in Boston, where his ominous past resurfaces, putting his life at stake. The glaring issue he confronts is his family's previous affiliation with the mafia. Another burden that weighs heavily on him is the haunting memory of taking someone's life. Despite his father's cruelty, Gavin is tormented by his murder. With his mother, father, and twin brother all deceased, his world now revolves around his wife, Katie, and their daughter, Maggie. As Gavin embarks on his journey back to Boston, a floodgate of unresolved problems is unleashed, exposing them all to perilous jeopardy. How far will his enemies go to seek revenge, and how far will Gavin be willing to go to stop them? A man afflicted by Complex PTSD can exhibit dangerous tendencies when provoked.

Gavin's wife stands by her haunted husband, providing unwavering support despite her own struggles and traumas. She bravely assumes the role of the anchor for their family, striving to keep them united, secure, and to serve as Gavin's guiding light.

Kain casts a brilliant spotlight on the unfolding events within "What Lies Buried," propelling the action forward with great momentum. With themes of paternal transgressions, murder, and kidnapping, accompanied by a constant sense of anticipation, this captivating narrative will effortlessly consume your attention, causing time to slip away unnoticed—a telltale sign of a truly exceptional book.