The Day I Died: A Novel

The Day I Died follows the story of Anna Winger, a handwriting expert who consults for the FBI. Anna and her thirteen-year-old son have recently moved to a small town when a two-year-old boy goes missing and she’s called in by the sheriff to examine what might be a ransom note. Everyone believes the mother just took the boy, which brings back memories for Anna since that’s what she did when she was pregnant with her son. Then Anna’s son goes missing, and she has to come face-to-face with her past and all her mistakes and discover if there’s anyone she can trust in this life of deception she’s been leading.

While there is a kidnapping in this book, I wouldn’t exactly classify it as a mystery or a thriller. This story is more about one woman’s growth out of bitterness and a life of fear and hiding after leaving an abusive relationship. It is definitely more about Anna than it is about finding the boy. It is still a great look into what life is like for someone who does manage to get away. Anna is unlikable at the beginning, and then you slowly find out what she’s been through, and you start to understand. Then you watch her learn that people can change and forgiveness is possible. I enjoyed it, and I think you will, too.