Resenhas - Only The Trees Know

Thales Moreira 29/02/2024

Heather Hansen's "Only the Trees Know" is a gripping and dark exploration of a group of morally ambiguous late teens, each facing their own demons and contributing to a toxic dynamic that ultimately leads to tragedy. The novel provides a character-driven narrative, delving into themes of abuse, substance addiction, and the consequences of terrible decision-making.

The story revolves around four individuals—Josiah, Zoe, Parker, and Liam—who embark on a spring break trip to Yosemite, their already unstable relationships spiraling into a vortex of communal psychopathy. Hansen masterfully crafts each character, making them detestable yet intriguing, and their dysfunctional interactions keep readers hooked.

The narrative unfolds with time jumps, revealing the aftermath of the group's disastrous trip. The pacing, admittedly slow in the initial chapters, gains momentum around the 40% mark, propelling the story forward. Despite some editing issues, the author's writing skillfully builds tension, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that lingers until the very end.

The characters, portrayed as morally gray and leaning towards corruption, evoke a range of emotions from readers. The toxic dynamics among the group are palpable, prompting the question of why none of them chose to leave. The novel, while delving into the darkness of its characters, doesn't shy away from addressing trigger-worthy subjects like domestic abuse, homophobia, self-harm, and substance abuse.

Despite the characters being unsavory, the author's ability to keep readers invested in their story is commendable. The book offers a small speck of romance, solid plotting, and a satisfying ending, albeit not in the expected manner. Hansen successfully creates an emotional rollercoaster, making readers sympathize with the characters' struggles while despising their actions.

While some may find the ending predictable, it is the rushed execution that leaves a sense of frustration. The last 10% feels hurried, as if the author lost interest in the narrative, resulting in an abrupt conclusion. Nevertheless, "Only the Trees Know" remains an engaging piece of crime fiction, with its share of horror and mystery, offering a quick and absorbing read for those who can stomach the darkness within its pages.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.