The best thing about the Return of Elkie Black is how skillfully Emiko Jean plays with her narrative style in her debut thriller. The story begins with short, clipped sentences, immersing us in the life of Chelsea Calhoun, a police detective, who is juggling the task of emptying her parents' house while also grappling with personal challenges. She is jolted out of her worries, the moment news breaks that Elkie Black, a teenager missing for two years, is found wandering in the woods. And Chelsea’s pushes her personal life to the side, fixing her gaze on uncovering the truth behind Elkie's silence. 

As the novel unfolds, the language evolves; it grows more intricate and powerful, mirroring the deepening plot. Elkie remains tight-lipped, refusing to cooperate with the police, adding to the mystery. Fortunately, we, as readers, slowly piece together her harrowing tale of abuse, control, and intimidation. Elkie has endured unspeakable horrors while being held captive with other girls, experiencing far worse than one could ever imagine. 

What I particularly appreciated about this novel is the contrast between the lyrical, fragmented, and somber sections of Elkie's story and the fast-paced excitement of Chelsea's investigation. This blend allows the narrative to breathe. While many stories focus on detectives pursuing kidnapped girls in a typical "Save the Girl" scenario, few delve into the complexities of a strong girl grappling with her environment, driven by rage and a yearning for freedom, yet heavily scarred by the manipulations of a damaged man. 

This book does not shy away from exploring challenging themes: generational trauma, the deep-seated impact of abuse, and the pain caused by broken individuals. Yet, it also highlights the resilience of women who endure. All of this is woven into a beautifully written, taut, and lyrical thriller, complete with shocking twists that will keep you on your toes. An excellent read from a true literary talent!