Baby Doll is a psychological thriller written by Hollie Overton, published in 2016. The book became a New York Times bestseller and has been praised for its gripping plot and fascinating characters. Hollie Overton is an American author and screenwriter. She has also written other notable works, such as The Runaway and The Walls.
Plot Summary:
The story revolves around Lily Riser, a 17-year-old girl who has been kidnapped and held captive for eight years by her former high school teacher, Rick. During this time, she has given birth to a daughter, Sky, and has been subjected to physical and emotional abuse. After being held captive for so long, Lily finally finds an opportunity to escape with her daughter. She must now navigate the world outside, face the trauma she experienced, and find a way to rebuild her life.
Character Analysis:
The characters in Baby Doll are complex and well-written. Lily is a survivor, but she also struggles with the trauma of her experience. Her daughter, Sky, is her reason for living, but Lily is also haunted by the knowledge that her daughter was born in captivity. Rick, the kidnapper, is a manipulative and violent character whose motivations are slowly revealed throughout the story. Lily’s family and the detective assigned to her case are also well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Themes and Symbolism:
The themes of trauma, survival, and family are prevalent throughout Baby Doll. The book explores the long-lasting effects of trauma and the different ways people cope with it. It also highlights the power of the human spirit to persevere in the face of unimaginable circumstances. The symbolism of the baby doll, which represents both Lily’s daughter and her own lost innocence, is also significant to the story.
Writing Style and Pacing:
Hollie Overton’s writing style is both engaging and evocative. The book is written from the perspectives of different characters, which allows for a deeper understanding of their motivations and experiences. The pacing of the story is excellent, with just the right amount of tension and suspense to keep the reader engaged. The book is a page-turner and keeps the reader guessing until the very end.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, Baby Doll is an excellent book that delves into the psychological impact of trauma and the resiliency of the human spirit. The characters are well-developed and the writing is engaging, making it a gripping and emotional read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers.
If you enjoyed Baby Doll, I recommend checking out Hollie Overton’s other books, such as The Runaway and The Walls. They are also well-written psychological thrillers that explore complex characters and themes.
