Review of 'Love You Gone' by Rona Halsall

Publication Date: 15 Nov 18

Luke Roberts' life and those of his children are devastated when his wife dies suddenly of a brain aneurysm. Previously estranged from his parents when he joined the military against his family's beliefs, Luke recognizes that he now has no-where else to turn as he spirals into depression. Old rivalries remain between Luke and his cousin Ted, raised as a brother when his own parents were killed in a car accident. Luke finds his parents and his sister held tightly under Ted's control and is also shocked to find out that the family has begun growing and selling marijuana. Initially used to help treat his mother's MS symptoms, Ted is determined to use this to save the "family farm". Luke tries to tamp his frustrations with Ted's constant anger and demeaning words and realizes that he has to move elsewhere. While doing so, he meets Mel, a beautiful, passionate woman who is independent and intelligent and who makes him feel more alive and hopeful than he has since his wife's passing. But Mel's persuasive and persistent in getting Luke to marry her quickly and the problems begin immediately, with her hitting him on their wedding night for the first time. The time that follows is a constant tightrope for Luke and as his children begin to show signs of Mel's abuse, he realizes that something has to change....and quickly. Arranging for the family to have a week away may be just what they need. Luke goes ahead with the children so that Mel can complete a business deal, and when she arrives, far later than intended, the family is no-where to be found. Mel contacts local authorities and as the hours and days tick by, her story begins to unravel. But is it true? A great read on one man's determination to do right by his children and his family at all cost.