space
Reader Reviews | |
Review by Denise M. Clark (050303) Rating (7/10) Review
by Denise M. Clark Puppet Child is author Talia Carner’s first novel; a unique and daring venture into the world of the criminal justice system and the sexual and emotional abuse of children. The story revolves around Rachael Belmore, her daughter Ellie, and her surgeon husband, Wesley. For some reason, ever since little Ellie was an infant, Rachael has experienced feelings of disquiet whenever her husband is with Ellie alone. She has nothing to base her gut instinct on, she’s never caught him doing anything, and it’s just a nagging concern. A year later, when her daughter is nearly two years old, Rachael is shocked and horrified to discover that her instincts were correct when she walk in on her husband abusing the child. What follows is a nightmare of accusations, flight, injustice and outrage. Rachael vows to protect Ellie at all costs despite the judges, lawyers and psychologists she must contend with every step of the way.
While the theme of child abuse is extremely disturbing and at
times difficult to read, especially in regard to vivid descriptions
rendered in painful detail by the author, Ms. Carner has written
a book that encourages a sense of outrage and a demand for justice
for her tiny victim. Excellent narrative blends with compelling
dialog to create a thoroughly professional tale for this new author.
Puppet Child is an intensely disturbing read. It is also a must
read. |
|
Column Ends |
space