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Long Bright River summary
Brief summary
Long Bright River by Liz Moore is a gripping thriller that follows police officer Mickey as she searches for her missing sister Kacey, while also delving into the devastating impact of the opioid crisis in their Philadelphia neighborhood.
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Long Bright River
Summary of key ideas
Two Sisters, Two Different Paths
In Long Bright River by Liz Moore, we are introduced to two sisters, Mickey and Kacey, who grew up in Philadelphia. The story is set against the backdrop of the opioid crisis, and the sisters' lives have taken drastically different paths. Mickey becomes a police officer, while Kacey falls into a life of addiction and ends up living on the streets.
As Mickey patrols the streets, she keeps an eye out for her sister, who she hasn't spoken to in years. The narrative is interspersed with flashbacks to their childhood, revealing the close bond they once shared. Mickey's obsession with finding Kacey is fueled by her fear that her sister might be the next victim of the serial killer targeting women in the area.
A City in Crisis
Moore paints a vivid picture of a city in crisis, where addiction and poverty are rampant. The opioid epidemic is not just a backdrop but a central character in the story, shaping the lives of everyone it touches. Mickey's job forces her to confront this reality daily, and her personal connection to it through Kacey makes it all the more painful.
As Mickey delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers shocking truths about the victims and their connection to Kacey. She also learns that Kacey has been attending a rehab program, giving her hope that her sister might still be alive. However, her hope is short-lived when Kacey goes missing, and Mickey is left to grapple with the possibility that her sister might be dead.
Reconciliation and Redemption
Amidst the chaos, Mickey's personal life is also in turmoil. She is a single mother to a young son and is still reeling from the death of her father, who was also an addict. Her strained relationship with her mother adds another layer of complexity to the story. Mickey's journey is not just about finding her sister but also about coming to terms with her past and finding a way to move forward.
As the novel progresses, we see Mickey's resolve to find Kacey strengthen. She takes increasingly risky actions, putting her job and her life in danger. However, her determination pays off when she finally locates Kacey, who is alive but in a dire state. The sisters' reunion is bittersweet, filled with regret and missed opportunities.
The Long Bright River
In the end, Long Bright River is a story of resilience and the enduring bond between sisters. It is a poignant exploration of addiction, loss, and the lengths we go to for the people we love. The title, Long Bright River, refers to the Schuylkill River that runs through Philadelphia, a symbol of the city's enduring spirit despite its many challenges.
As the story concludes, Mickey and Kacey are on the long, bright road to recovery. Their journey is far from over, but they are taking the first steps towards healing and reconciliation. The novel ends on a note of hope, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is always a chance for redemption.
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What is Long Bright River about?
Long Bright River (2020) by Liz Moore is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of family, addiction, and the opioid crisis. Set in Philadelphia, the story follows two sisters, Mickey and Kacey, whose lives have taken very different paths. When Kacey goes missing amidst a series of mysterious murders, Mickey, a police officer, embarks on a desperate search for her sister.
Long Bright River Review
Long Bright River (2020) is a gripping novel that explores family, addiction, and the pursuit of justice. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its compelling mystery, it keeps readers hooked from beginning to end, eager to uncover the truth behind a string of mysterious murders.
- The book delves deep into the complex relationships between two sisters, highlighting the impact of addiction and the resilience of familial bonds.
- Through its vivid portrayal of a neighborhood plagued by drugs, poverty, and crime, the book presents a searing depiction of society and its challenges.
Who should read Long Bright River?
- Readers who enjoy suspenseful crime novels
- Those who are interested in exploring the impact of addiction on individuals and communities
- People who appreciate complex and well-developed characters
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Long Bright River FAQs
What is the main message of Long Bright River?
Family, addiction, and the complexities of love are explored in Long Bright River.
How long does it take to read Long Bright River?
The reading time for Long Bright River varies, but the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Long Bright River a good book? Is it worth reading?
Long Bright River is a captivating story that will keep you hooked till the end.
Who is the author of Long Bright River?
Liz Moore is the author of Long Bright River.
What to read after Long Bright River?
If you're wondering what to read next after Long Bright River, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright