Suspenseful / Mysterious / Dark / Emotional

Readers who enjoy suspenseful mysteries and crime thrillers like Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn or The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins will be captivated by Summit Lake by Charlie Donlea. This novel caters to lovers of gripping, character-driven plots with complex investigations and dark secrets.

Summit Lake by Charlie Donlea is widely praised for its compelling narrative, intricate plot, and well-developed characters. Reviewers appreciate its gripping pace and unexpected twists. However, some find the ending predictable and critique occasional lapses in character depth. Overall, it’s a solid thriller that keeps readers engaged despite minor flaws.

Summit Lake, North Carolina / Contemporary

In Summit Lake by Charlie Donlea, a young investigative reporter named Kelsey Castle delves into the chilling murder of a law student, Becca Eckersley, in a small mountain town. As Kelsey uncovers secrets, she faces dangers revealing the complex facets of both Becca's life and the seemingly peaceful community.

**Kelsey Castle**  
A resilient journalist navigating professional and personal recovery, whose investigation into a supposed simple case leads her to unravel deeper truths.

**Becca Eckersley**  
A first-year law student with a seemingly perfect life who becomes the center of Kelsey's investigation, unveiling hidden aspects of her past.

**Brad Reynolds**  
A former college friend of Becca, whose intense feelings and misinterpretations lead to significant consequences.

**Jack Covington**  
Becca’s college boyfriend and secret husband, remembered through flashbacks, who symbolizes genuine and supportive love.

**Commander Stan Ferguson**  
The seasoned and instinct-driven local police chief who supports Kelsey by sharing critical information for her investigation.

**Dr. Peter Ambrose**  
A surgeon at the local hospital who becomes an important ally and personal support for Kelsey during the investigation.

**Rae**  
A perceptive and supportive manager of Millie’s Coffee House who aids Kelsey in her search for the truth.

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About Summit Lake

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of graphic violence, rape, sexual violence, emotional abuse, and death.

Part 1: “The Morning Falls”

Part 1, Chapters 1-8

Summit Lake Part 1, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of graphic violence and death.

Part 1: “The Morning Falls”- Part 2: “Self-Help”

Part 1, Chapter 9-Part 2, Chapter 14

Summit Lake Part 1, Chapter 9-Part 2, Chapter 14 Summary & Analysis

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death by suicide.

Part 2: “Self-Help” - Part 3: “Hello, Detective”

Part 2, Chapter 15-Part 3, Chapter 21

Summit Lake Part 2, Chapter 15-Part 3, Chapter 21 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Hello, Detective”

Part 3, Chapters 22-32

Summit Lake Part 3, Chapters 22-32 Summary & Analysis

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of graphic violence, rape, sexual violence, emotional abuse, death by suicide, and death.

Summit Lake

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