Book Title: The Gift
Author: Louise Jensen
Series: None
Genres: Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Contemporary Fiction
Goodreads

Date Read: 01/31/17
Pub Date: 12/16/16

4 STARS

The perfect daughter. The perfect girlfriend. The perfect murder?

Jenna is seriously ill. She’s lost all hope of getting the heart transplant she needs to live. But just as her life is ebbing away, she receives a donor heart from a girl called Callie.
Who was Callie and how did she die? Jenna is determined to find out.

The closer Jenna gets to those who loved Callie, the more questions arise about her untimely death. Someone knows what happened to Callie. Why won’t they talk?

Jenna is about to uncover the truth, but it could cost her everything; her loved ones, her sanity, even her life.

Here I am desperately trying to catch up on reviews in the midst of the move. We are unexpectedly stuck in a hotel an extra week as the movers informed us last minute that our  stuff will not be arriving until this coming Friday, so I’m warily writing this with children climbing all over me and hair being pulled out. 🙂 Even though it’s been almost a week since I finished this book I still remember it vividly and my feelings haven’t changed in the slightest. If you enjoyed The Sister like I did, then I think you’ll be pleased as punch with The Gift. While the content of her latest was significantly different than her debut, I found that the style of writing, flow of plot line, and feeling the characters gave were comfortably consistent and similar.

***MINOR SPOILERS BELOW***

I’m not sure how deep to go into discussion as spoilers are easily let loose regarding the plot, but I was intrigued in the direction she chose to take this story. I’ll be honest, I have done little research on the subject of cellular memory, but found it so intriguing after finishing this book that I had to do more research on current beliefs surrounding it. While the plot was a bit far fetched (you are required to put aside realistic expectations while reading), I found it enjoyable and exciting! There were so many “what ifs” that really drew me in and caused me to constantly question what was going to happen. I’ve seen a spike in recent trends regarding psychological thrillers containing supernatural elements or magical realism aspects and I’m truly torn. I’ve been brought up by the industry to expect realistic and natural, yet fictional stories in this genre and these current books give me a simultaneous feeling of excitement and discomfort in feeling I was duped into reading something outside of the genre I selected. That being said, I’m really glad my expectations are being challenged and that I’m broadening my horizons. This was one of the best reads involving non-traditional thriller plot lines I’ve experienced yet, and may have had enough effect to sway my opinion on the matter.

If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that is different, fresh, and unique, pick this one up! I was considerably impressed and find after reading both of her books that Jensen’s novels are perfect when I need to grab something that I know will be enjoyable. If you’re new to her work, The Gift is just as perfect to start with as The Sister. I’m really thrilled to see what she produces next; I can see why everyone is raving about her books constantly! Once again Bookouture has signed another talented, multi-dimensional author who grabs our attention from first to last page (with gorgeous covers!). Recommended to thriller fans willing to put aside pre-conceived notions of the genre and those looking to spice up their reading routine.

*Many thanks to Bookouture for providing my copy via NetGalley; it was a pleasure to read it!