50 pages • 1 hour read
Allen EskensThe Life We Bury
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens, Joe Talbert, a college student, seeks to write the biography of Carl Iverson, a Vietnam veteran convicted of a young girl's murder 30 years ago. As Joe investigates with the help of his neighbor Lila Nash, they uncover evidence suggesting Carl's innocence and expose the real murderer, all while Joe manages personal challenges involving his brother Jeremy and their abusive mother. The narrative includes sensitive topics such as abuse and violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Allen Eskens’ The Life We Bury receives high praise for its gripping narrative and well-developed characters, particularly the protagonist Joe. Reviewers commend its suspenseful plot and emotional depth. However, some criticize the pacing and certain predictable elements in the story. Overall, it’s lauded as a compelling mystery that balances intrigue with human drama effectively.
Who Should Read The Life We Bury?
Readers who relish suspenseful mysteries with deep character development will enjoy The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens. Fans of works like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and Sharp Objects will find Eskens' novel equally compelling, with its combination of crime, human drama, and an intricate plot.