A review by amberreadsromance
Back of Beyond by C.J. Box

adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I have mixed feelings about this book. The pace was great. The mystery and thriller aspects were on point. I didn't even mind all the different perspectives. They were perfectly woven into the puzzle. The wilderness guide adventure theme and Yellowstone setting were especially intriguing. It's so hard to find books that convey teenage girls as skillfully as this one did. I especially enjoyed the character of Gracie and the role she played throughout. However, I was disappointed by the character of Cody. It takes a strong writer like CJ Box to make a character who is as flawed as Cody likeable. The reluctant hero worked for me until the "interrogation" scene toward the end where Cody uses excessive force. I understand that Cody's withdraws for alcohol and nicotine and his worry over his son's fate pushed him to a certain point but I wish it hadn't gone that far.