Flashback by Iris Johansen is a thrilling entry into the genre of suspense, merging elements of mystery and family drama into a compelling narrative that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. The novel centers around the life of Kendra Michaels, whose extraordinary observational skills, honed during the years she spent blind and then later restored, place her in the center of a complex case tied deeply to her own past. Johansen’s skillful development of her protagonist and the intricate plotting contribute to a narrative that is both gripping and emotionally resonant.

The story opens with a riveting scene showcasing Kendra’s remarkable talents in crime scene analysis, immediately setting the stage for a mystery that is uniquely tied to her personal history. The main plot follows Kendra as she navigates a series of murders that shockingly point to her late mother’s involvement. This revelation thrusts her into a whirlwind of emotion and danger, propelling the narrative at a brisk pace that Johansen manages skillfully. The stakes are high and personal, allowing readers to feel a strong connection with Kendra’s plight.

Johansen excels in her characterization, particularly with Kendra, who is depicted as not just a beacon of intellectual prowess but also as a profoundly multidimensional character. Her strengths and vulnerabilities are portrayed with equal prowess, creating a heroine who is both formidable and deeply relatable. This balance of traits makes her journeys—both professional and personal—feel genuinely significant and emotionally taxing. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, contributing to the richness of the story. From Kendra’s romantic interest, ex-FBI agent Adam Lynch, to her close friends and allies, each character adds depth and intrigue to the plot.

The novel also excels in maintaining suspense and complexity in its plot. The twists are unpredictable but fair, with clues ingeniously laid out to build tension. Johansen masterfully intertwides several subplots, each enriching the main storyline and adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Her description of settings, situations, and emotional undercurrents is vivid, making the scenes leap off the page and enhancing the suspenseful atmosphere. However, there are moments when the pace feels somewhat bogged down by excessive details or minor subplots that seem to sidetrack the main narrative thrust.

One of the most compelling aspects of Flashback is its emotional depth. The revelations about Kendra’s past and the intricate familial ties explored in the book add a poignant layer to the story. There are scenes filled with intense emotion that are written with sincerity and power, engaging the reader’s empathy and making the characters' experiences feel deeply personal. The psychological complexity explored through these familial connections provides a satisfying depth to the overall suspenseful narrative.

In terms of themes, Flashback delves deep. It explores themes of familial duty, the impact of the past on the present, and the moral ambiguities involved in the pursuit of justice. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, enhancing the story’s resonance and complexity. The dialogue is sharp and often filled with emotional insights, though it occasionally slips into exposition, which might disrupt the flow for some readers.

The climax of the novel is both thrilling and satisfying. Johansen manages to tie up the numerous strands of the plot convincingly, providing closure while still leaving some questions intriguingly open for the reader’s interpretation. The resolution to Kendra’s emotional journey is particularly well-executed, providing a sense of catharsis that is both earned and heartening.

Overall, Flashback is a robust addition to Iris Johansen’s repertoire. It is a novel that not only offers a thrilling mystery but also tackles complex emotional and ethical dilemmas. Johansen’s narrative prowess is on full display as she crafts a story that is as intellectually engaging as it is emotionally compelling. For fans of thrillers with a strong psychological component and for those who admire well-constructed characters, this book is a definite recommend.

The combination of a strong, likable protagonist, a layered narrative full of intrigue, and a well-maintained tension makes Flashback a memorable read. This book is sure to satisfy both longtime fans of Iris Johansen and newcomers to her work, providing both a thrilling ride and a thoughtful exploration of deep emotional landscapes.