Review of Summit Lake by Charlie Donlea
There’s something undeniably captivating about a setting that juxtaposes breathtaking beauty with dark secrets. That’s exactly what Charlie Donlea delivers in his debut novel, Summit Lake. As I turned the pages, I felt the pull of not only the lush North Carolina landscape but also the haunting mystery that unfolded within it. This book had caught my attention long before I cracked it open, thanks to the tantalizing premise of a young woman’s untimely death and an investigative reporter driven by both curiosity and her own tumultuous past.
The story revolves around Becca Eckersley, a promising law student whose brutal murder leaves a picturesque small town in shock. Kelsey Castle, the protagonist, initially views the assignment as a mundane fluff piece, but as she peels back the layers of Becca’s life, her quest for truth transforms into a deeply personal journey—a quest for closure and connection. I found myself rooting for Kelsey as she navigated dangers while wrestling with her own demons. The dual timelines effectively crafted by Donlea allow readers to witness Becca’s life through Kelsey’s eyes, and this connection made every revelation feel more profound.
Donlea’s writing style is crisp and engaging, creating a sense of urgency that propelled me from one chapter to the next. Each short chapter felt like a quick breath in a suspenseful dive, begging me not to resurface until I reached the bottom of this dark pool of secrets. This pacing made Summit Lake a swift, addictive read—perfect for those days when you just can’t put a book down.
What stood out most to me was Donlea’s ability to weave complex character dynamics into the narrative. The friendships, betrayals, and hidden truths felt authentic, and I appreciated the multi-dimensional portrayal of Becca; she’s not merely a victim, but a young woman with dreams, relationships, and a life that resonates beyond her tragic end. A quote from the book echoes within me: “Somewhere beneath the surface of that serene lake lies all the sorrow this town has tried to bury.” This encapsulates the essence of the story—the idea that beauty can conceal underlying turmoil.
While some plot details felt slightly implausible and there were a few minor inconsistencies, the overall experience kept me intrigued. I loved the twisty ending that caught many readers off-guard, proving that Donlea knows how to keep us on our toes.
I wholeheartedly recommend Summit Lake to fans of psychological thrillers and neat mysteries alike. If you enjoy tales that blend suspense with rich character development and a picturesque backdrop, this book is a perfect fit for you. It’s an engaging reminder that sometimes our darkest truths await us beneath the surface—even in the most beautiful places.
Ultimately, reading Summit Lake was not just an escape into fiction—it was a journey that lingered long after I flipped the final page. I look forward to seeing where Donlea takes us next; his promising debut has certainly left me wanting more.
You can find Summit Lake here >>