My Thoughts
At the age of 37, Lenny does not seek a life of excitement and romance but rather one of routine and control that provides her comfort in the form of order. She is a teacher at a local school, and her nights are devoted to solitary activities such as Scrabble, TV, and arranging her The Hobbit books collection. But with the encouragement of her loving foster mother, Lenny has unwillingly made up her mind to spice up the mundane but safe life she has.
As Lenny embarks on this tentative journey, her world is transformed by a letter from the Adult Parole Board, likely concerning her stepfather. This brings back the childhood memories and pain Lenny has been suppressing for so long. As she tries to look away from the events, we feel that the very groundwork of Lenny’s carefully planned life starts to crumble.
Lenny’s psychological struggle to come to terms with her traumatic past is at the core of Mayne’s spare yet stirring prose, which creates an intriguing story. We hurt for young Lenny and cheer on 37-year-old Lenny as she faces this internal conflict. This book is sure to strike a chord with people from all walks of life, considering its revelations about dealing and recovery. “Lenny Marks Gets Away With Murder” is a delightful and captivating debut novel that offers readers an immensely enjoyable and charming story.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
