Mystic River

by Dennis Lehane
Mystic River cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £10.99
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Format • £10.44
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Technical
  • ID: 4663
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780553818246
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2006-01-01
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 4

Mystic River is a gripping tale of friendship, loss, and redemption. The story begins with three boys—Sean Devine, Jimmy Marcus, and Dave Boyle—whose lives are irrevocably altered by a single, horrifying event. Twenty-five years later, Sean is a homicide detective, Jimmy is an ex-con running a corner store, and Dave struggles to keep his life together while battling his inner demons. When Jimmy's daughter is murdered, Sean is assigned to the case, drawing him back into the world he thought he had left behind. The novel explores the complex relationships and the lingering effects of trauma on the characters' lives. /n/n The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of the characters, highlighting the impact of the past on the present. As Sean investigates the murder, he must confront not only the violence of the present but also the nightmares of his past. The story is a profound examination of guilt, redemption, and the enduring bonds of friendship, set against the backdrop of a community grappling with its own dark secrets.

Reviews
Readers Lane · 2022-08-13
mixed 3.00

The story is well told and the drama is well-laid, but something feels amiss. There's an appreciation for the quality but it doesn't fully satisfy.

They enjoyed the book to some extent, acknowledging the quality of the writing and the way the drama unfolds. However, they felt that something was missing, preventing them from fully connecting with the story. It's a book that they recognize as well-crafted but ultimately leaves them wanting more. The characters and plot are engaging, but there's a sense that the story doesn't quite reach its full potential.

Quick quotes

    The story is well told, the drama laired, but something here just isn't quite right.

    We enjoy it, a little, we recognize quality, but ultimately ...

    There's a sense that the story doesn't quite reach its full potential.

Nishita K · Nishita K · 2021-05-31
great 4.50

The book is emotionally draining and very sad, but it's one of the best reads of the year. It leaves a lasting impression.

They loved the book and considered it one of the best they've read this year. However, it left them feeling emotionally drained and very sad. The story's depth and emotional impact are significant, making it a memorable read. They appreciated the well-crafted narrative and the way it explores complex themes, but the emotional toll was substantial. It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

Quick quotes

    I loved the book; it's probably the best book I've read this year, but it also left me feeling emotionally drained and very, very sad.

    The story's depth and emotional impact are significant, making it a memorable read.

    It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished reading.

Too Much Berard · 2020-06-14
mixed 3.00

The structure and writing are solid, but there are elements that may not resonate with all readers. The story of three men from East Buckingham is compelling but flawed.

This reviewer found the book to have a strong foundation with its multi-strand narrative and well-realized characters. However, they also noted that there are aspects that might not appeal to everyone, particularly the portrayal of the characters and their relationships. They appreciated the immersive plot but felt that some parts of the story were not as engaging as others. Overall, it's a mixed bag with some truly standout moments.

Quick quotes

    There's a lot to dislike but a fairly sound structure and solid writing.

    This is the story of three men from 'East Buckingham' (still not sure what that's about).

    The writing is solid, but some of the character development feels a bit off.

Goodreads · 2001-01-01
excellent 4.20

The book is a tense and unnerving psychological thriller that also explores themes of love, loyalty, faith, and family. It is praised for its epic narrative and gripping plot.

This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending the suspense of a psychological thriller with the depth of an epic novel. The story delves into the lives of its characters, exploring their relationships and the impact of past traumas. The narrative is gripping, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its tense and unnerving plot. The exploration of themes like love, loyalty, faith, and family adds a layer of depth that makes the book a compelling read. It's a story that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    A tense and unnerving psychological thriller

    An epic novel of love and loyalty, faith and family

    A gripping and immersive plot

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