“I know the exact moment I went wrong.”
So begins a thumping good YA thriller by debut author SR Johannes.
Untraceable is about sixteen-year-old Grace Wells, a tomboy who loves the woods and tracking. When her father, a Wildlife Officer, disappears and the local sheriff gives up the search, Grace fights the authorities, tribal officials, and nature to find him.
Along the way, Grace learns terrible secrets that sever friendships and lives. And hers is about to change.
Ms. Johannes writes a convoluted story that leads to a surprising, and frankly moving end. It was a proverbial roller coaster ride, up and down and through many a tunnel. Humor was around every corner with tension a sidecar companion.
Excerpt:
Once inside, I peek through the thin, cheap drapes and watch her sitting in the truck with her head hanging. She opens the door slightly then slams it shut again.
She sits there until her shoulders start to shake.
I stand frozen, watching Mom cry, not knowing what to do, but wanting so much to run out and comfort her.
Just talk. Like we did before Dad went missing.
Like we haven’t done since.
With clever writing and excellent voice, Ms. Johannes made me care about Grace. In my opinion, adults and teens will enjoy this tale, but there are depictions of violence. I suggest reading Untraceable along with a child under ten.
I highly recommend this book, Untraceable by SR Johannes.
