Samantha Downing's Too Old for This is a gripping exploration of the complexities of identity, morality, and the inescapable shadows of one's past. With a premise that immediately hooks the reader—a retired serial killer trying to maintain a low profile—Downing crafts a narrative that is as thrilling as it is introspective.

The protagonist, Lottie Jones, is a fascinating character study. Having left her murderous past behind, she now leads a seemingly mundane life in a small town, where her biggest thrills come from church bingo nights and idle gossip. This stark contrast between her past and present life is one of the novel's most compelling elements. Downing skillfully portrays Lottie's internal conflict, as she grapples with the tension between her desire for a peaceful existence and the instinctual pull of her darker inclinations.

When investigative journalist Plum Dixon arrives, the story takes a sharp turn. Plum's presence is a catalyst that forces Lottie to confront her past, and the ensuing cat-and-mouse game between the two women is both suspenseful and thought-provoking. Downing uses Plum not just as a plot device, but as a mirror reflecting Lottie's fears and regrets. The dynamic between these two characters is electric, driving the narrative forward with relentless momentum.

One of the novel's most intriguing themes is the concept of identity. Lottie has reinvented herself, but the question remains: can one ever truly escape their past? Downing delves into this theme with nuance, exploring how Lottie's past actions continue to shape her present identity. The novel raises important questions about redemption and whether it is ever truly attainable for someone with a history as dark as Lottie's.

Another significant theme is the idea of aging and its impact on one's capabilities and desires. Lottie is not the typical protagonist of a thriller; she is older, and her age adds a layer of complexity to her character. Downing does not shy away from depicting the physical and mental challenges that come with aging, and this realism adds depth to the narrative. Lottie's struggle to commit another murder, despite her age, is both darkly humorous and poignant, highlighting the absurdity and tragedy of her situation.

Downing's writing is sharp and engaging, with a keen eye for detail that brings the small-town setting to life. The pacing is expertly handled, with tension building steadily as Lottie's carefully constructed world begins to unravel. The novel's structure, alternating between Lottie's perspective and Plum's investigation, keeps the reader on edge, constantly questioning what will happen next.

In terms of character development, Downing excels at creating complex, multi-dimensional characters. Lottie is a particularly compelling protagonist, and her internal monologue provides insight into her psyche, revealing the layers of guilt, fear, and defiance that define her. Plum, too, is a well-drawn character, driven by her own motivations and haunted by her own past. The supporting characters, though less developed, serve to enrich the narrative, providing context and depth to Lottie's world.

Comparatively, Too Old for This shares thematic similarities with works like Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Patricia Highsmith's The Talented Mr. Ripley, both of which explore the darker aspects of human nature and the complexities of identity. However, Downing's novel stands out for its unique protagonist and the way it addresses the theme of aging, offering a fresh perspective in the psychological thriller genre.

Overall, Too Old for This is a masterful blend of suspense and introspection, offering readers a thrilling ride while also prompting them to reflect on deeper questions about identity and redemption. Samantha Downing has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with a protagonist who is as memorable as she is morally ambiguous. For fans of psychological thrillers, this book is a must-read, offering a unique twist on the genre that will linger in the mind long after the final page is turned.