Title: Over the Devil’s Back
Author: Melva Haggar Dye
Publisher: West Point Print and Media LLC
ISBN: 978-1956001419
Pages: 456
Genre: Suspense / Thrillers
Reviewed by: Jack Chambers

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Childhood is one of the most defining periods of time in a person’s life. It is a time of innocence, a time of education and friendships blooming in the wake of new experiences. Yet if a person experiences something traumatic or negative in their childhood, the impact can last far longer than one can imagine, shaping the path which a person walks along and haunting them for years to come.

In author Melva Haggar Dye’s Over the Devil’s Back, the author explores the trauma of childhood through the lens of two childhood friends. Gabrielle, the white daughter of a wealthy family, and Leander, an African-American boy from a family of modest means, who develop a deep platonic friendship which knows no bounds, and vow to one another to always be honest. Yet that vow is put to the test when Leander witnesses a horrible crime committed by one of Gabrielle’s relatives, and must hold onto the secret out of fear and protection for his best friend. Yet as the years go on and the haunting memories of that fateful day plague him, the revelation of the crime years later leaves Leander feeling vulnerable, and the revelation of his knowledge of the crime threatens to upend the most heartfelt relationship he has ever known.

The vivid imagery the author utilizes in the writing to bring the settings of this novel to life, from the American South, and North East ,to the Cayman Islands, and beyond, was a juxtaposition of beauty against the horrors and haunting memories of protagonist Leander. The shifting perspectives between the two protagonists and the gripping tension which builds over time as the author showcases how these events shaped Leander’s life, as well as how the revelations would unravel Gabrielle’s family, make this a compelling and brilliant novel. The profound drama kept me invested not only in the mystery of the perpetrator of this horrible crime, but the more emotional and mental impact that the crime had on the victim, the witness, and the families involved.

This is a must-read book for those who enjoy suspense thrillers, especially those set against the backdrop of family dynasties – with an added flair of family drama and close friendships. The novel is not only well written, but has powerful themes that explore family dynamics, the powerful nature of secrets, class and race relations, and so much more, giving a well-rounded story that felt both impactful and unique at the same time.

Memorable, thoughtful, and emotionally-driven, author Melva Haggar Dye’s Over the Devil’s Back is a must-read suspense thriller which will keep readers engaged and haunted all at once. The exploration of childhood trauma and the cruel nature of secrets which can impact a relationship are well thought out and displayed.  The author does a remarkable job of not only drawing the reader in, but creating a narrative which is both shocking yet thought-provoking all at once.  This book is waiting for readers seeking to spend some time to immerse themselves in a story which will open many thoughts.