Drawn from Life: A Psychological Suspense

Drawn from Life: A Psychological Suspense by Sarah P. Blanchard is a gripping tale that examines guilt, trauma, and family dynamics, a mystery that will keep readers guessing as they race through the pages. Blanchard's narrative focuses on the inner turmoil of protagonist Emma Gillen, a young woman haunted by the aftermath of a tragic accident she believes she caused despite having no memory of the event. Emma’s struggle with survivor's guilt, PTSD, and the physical limitations resulting from her injuries is portrayed with rawness, and readers are pulled into her world of pain and uncertainty. Emma's volatile cousin, Lucy, returns after eight years of absence, and her presence in the story creates strong layers of suspense and intrigue. Lucy's manipulative nature and ulterior motives keep readers guessing her true intentions as Emma considers whether to trust her.

Blanchard's rich character development shines through in her portrayal of Emma and Lucy's complex relationship, fraught with tension, resentment, and a deep-seated sense of obligation. As Emma wades through the murky waters of her cousin's schemes and manipulations, she must confront her inner demons and find the strength to stand up against Lucy's destructive influence. The novel's atmospheric setting increases the sense of unease and suspense, with Blanchard's evocative descriptions bringing each scene to life with vivid detail. From the remote Appalachian Mountain where the accident occurred to the small town where Emma struggles to rebuild her life, the sense of place is palpable. Blanchard's prose is poetic and gorgeous, littered with terrific descriptions and sparkling dialogues. She writes about emotionally rich and psychologically intriguing characters while keeping them real and relatable. Drawn from Life is a compelling psychological thriller that captivates readers from start to finish. I was wholly invested in this tale with finely drawn characters and an intriguing plot.