Author: T. Jefferson Parker
Publisher: Forge Books
Released: January 11, 2021
Received: NetGalley

A Thousand Steps, by T. Jefferson Parker, is one part thriller and one part coming-of-age story. Given how much I adore novels that blend genres, I knew that I had to give this one a try!

The year is 1968, and Matt Antony lives in Laguna Beach, California. You’d think that would mean he has the world at his fingertips, but you’d be wrong. He’s just a kid – a teenager that has no idea what to do with his life, or even where his next meal will be coming from,

Unfortunately, his life is about to get even more complicated as his sister vanishes. One moment she was here, the next, she was yet another missing person poster. And it’s starting to feel like it’s up to Matt to find her.

I went into A Thousand Steps expecting a dash of coming of age mixed in with my thriller. I wasn’t expecting a heavy dose of historical fiction getting thrown into the mix. It was a pleasant surprise, one that set the scene nicely.

Despite the setting and some of the more extreme elements, this story’s elements could resonate with any reader. Matt is just a kid who wants to find his way in the world. More than that, he wants to find a place where he’s safe and loved. Who can’t sympathize with that?

Naturally, it’s easy to like and appreciate Matt’s character. Especially as his determination brings him out into the world looking for his missing sister. It’s an endearing move while also being the impetus needed for this novel.

Overall, I really enjoyed A Thousand Steps and would happily read anything else written by T. Jefferson Parker, given a chance.

Thanks to Forge Books and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.