Book Review: By the Time You Read This by Brianna Labuskes
As an avid reader and blogger, I always find myself drawn to stories that delve into the human psyche, especially when they wrap their complexities in the guise of a gripping thriller. Brianna Labuskes’s By the Time You Read This—the third installment in the Raisa Susanto series—absolutely captivated me from the first page. With its intricate blend of psychological depth and chilling narrative, I couldn’t help but immerse myself in Raisa’s world once more, eager to see how she would confront the haunting legacy of her sister Isabel.
In this novel, Labuskes revisits themes that we’ve come to know well—family trauma, psychological manipulation, and the exploration of identity. The narrative kicks off with Raisa attempting to find a semblance of normalcy after years of upheaval. Just when it seems she can breathe easy, a chilling note from Isabel—a notorious psychopath even in death—sets the stage for a dark, twisted journey. The phrase, "By the time you read this, I’ll be dead," echoes ominously throughout the storyline, underscoring the complex web of familial bonds that refuse to fray, even when strained by death.
The central dynamic between the Parker sisters—Raisa, Isabel, and their middle sister Delaney—creates an emotional heartbeat in the narrative. Raisa serves as the moral compass, yet finds herself grappling with the fear that Isabel’s darkness resides within her. Delaney’s character arc especially resonated with me as she wrestles with the shadows of her sisters, standing at the crossroads of light and dark. Labuskes skillfully portrays the multiplicity of trauma responses, allowing readers to explore the gray areas of morality and legacy.
The writing is sharp and astutely paced, a hallmark of Labuskes’s style that keeps the adrenaline flowing. The dual timelines enhance the story’s intrigue, as we simultaneously uncover details about Isabel’s demise while navigating the present-day mystery. Occasionally, the pacing stutters in the middle, still, I found myself enthralled by Raisa’s linguistic puzzles that unravel mysteries hidden in letters, an exploration that feels both informed and deceptively accessible.
One striking aspect was the authentic portrayal of true crime, particularly through characters like Detective Maeve St. Ivany and true crime enthusiast Gabriela Cruz. Their depth and dimension added layers of realism that made the narrative even richer. The exploration of themes like nature versus nurture and the ethics of vigilantism sparked introspection, leaving me pondering long after I closed the book.
While I adored the intricate plotting, some twists felt predictable to seasoned thriller fans. Those new to the series might also find themselves a bit lost among the established backstories. A brief recap could have provided a smoother entry point. Yet, despite these minor shortcomings, the book ultimately solidifies Labuskes’s voice in psychological thrillers.
By the Time You Read This is a worthy addition to your bookshelf, especially if you enjoy the works of Tana French or Lisa Gardner. It’s an engrossing exploration of moral ambiguity, familial ties, and the shadows that linger, even after death. This book left a lasting impression on me, not just as a thrilling read, but as a poignant reminder of the complexities of our connections.
If you’re looking for a psychological thriller that challenges not only the intellect but also the heart, do yourself a favor and dive into the intricate world of Raisa Susanto. You won’t regret it.
Discover more about By the Time You Read This (Raisa Susanto, #3) on GoodReads >>