Book review: The Witness

THE WITNESS

Nora Roberts

Piatkus, $32.99

CONFESSION. Before reading Nora Roberts’ latest novel, The Witness, I had no idea who she was. But the fact that The Witness is Roberts’ 200th novel is a testament to her worldwide popularity.

It tells the story of 16-year-old Elizabeth Fitch, the genius daughter of a controlling mother, who witnesses a shocking Mafia murder and is forced to go on the run. We meet Elizabeth again 12 years later as Abigail Lowery, a semi-recluse living in a quiet rural town.

When she attracts the attention of the local police chief, Abigail gradually realises there’s room in her life for love. After an exciting opening chapter, I was expecting more action but I gradually realised it was never going to happen … this book is more romance than thriller.

Although it never quite lives up to its off-the-blocks start, it’s an enjoyable read with well-developed characters. And everyone loves a good love story.