IN THE BLOOD

An Oregon teen embarks on a journey, determined to discover her identity—regardless of what she may find.

Adopted as a newborn, Tessa Lundgren, who’s cued white, has always wondered about her birth parents. For her 18th birthday, her best friend, El, who has a fondness for bright hair colors, offers her the opportunity to find them by gifting her an Ancestry DNA kit. In biology class they’re studying genetics, and Tessa opens up to her new lab partner, Victor Lopez, about her history and the testing kit. Meanwhile, local authorities are tracking the Portland Phantom, a serial killer who’s been on the loose for 15 years—and it seems that Tessa might be the link they need. Intrigue surrounds likable Tessa, who’s complex and well developed. The story’s multiple perspectives keep readers engaged as the tension builds. The serial killer plotline includes classic mystery and thriller genre tropes, but the killer’s chapters present his abhorrent beliefs about women and other marginalized groups without additional context. This disturbing element meshes poorly with the novel’s strong exploration of adoption and the experience of adoptees. Henry captures both the hope and idealism surrounding reunification. Seeing how Tessa and her family members engage with her adoption highlights the beauty and challenges of creating identity and family in an honest and emotional way.

A sensitive and insightful adoption story that sits uneasily alongside a shocking thriller.