Macmillan masterfully paints a picture of a community fractured by suspicion. As the investigation into Ben's disappearance deepens, long-held assumptions about friends, neighbors, and even family members begin to crumble. Rachel, already vulnerable after her divorce, finds herself questioning everyone around her, highlighting how easily trust can be broken, especially in the face of unimaginable tragedy. The reader, alongside Rachel, is kept guessing until the very end, questioning each character's motives and actions.

The novel delves into the powerful influence of public opinion. Rachel's every move is scrutinized, her past mistakes magnified under the harsh glare of the media and the court of public opinion. Macmillan skillfully portrays the suffocating pressure of judgment that can arise when a parent's worst nightmare becomes public fodder. This theme explores the disparity between outward appearances and the complex realities hidden beneath the surface, prompting reflection on how quickly we are to judge others in times of crisis.

Despite her vulnerabilities and the relentless scrutiny, Rachel refuses to give up hope. Driven by an unwavering love for her son, she taps into a wellspring of strength and resilience, challenging the police narrative and conducting her own desperate investigation. This portrayal of a mother's fierce determination highlights the potent combination of love, fear, and instinct that can fuel even the most ordinary individual to extraordinary lengths in the face of unimaginable adversity.