The Edge of Normal

Starred review from July 1, 2013
True crime writer Norton (Perfect Victim) makes her first foray into fiction with a compelling—and timely—story about a woman kidnapped when she was 12 and held for four years. Now 22 and living in San Francisco, Reeve LeClaire depends on strict routines and sessions with compassionate therapist Ezra Lerner, an authority on “captivity syndrome.” Now Dr. Lerner needs Reeve’s help in treating Tilly Cavanaugh, a 13-year-old found a year after her kidnapping in Jefferson City, Calif. Reeve, a self-educated expert on longtime captivity, knows exactly how Tilly feels. But Reeve’s kidnapper was caught. Tilly’s abductor is not only still at large but also connected to the Jefferson City police. Norton skillfully keeps the suspense taut with myriad surprises while giving a tender look at victims whose ordeals are rehashed by lawyers, the media, and pop psychologists. Reeve’s realistic maturation into a woman who refuses to remain a victim adds to the intriguing story. 100,000-copy first printing. Agent, Liza Dawson, Liza Dawson Associates.