Gone to Ground, by Morgan Hatch, is an intricate tale of life on the edge, weaving together the lives of a high school student navigating familial and community pressures, a political operative balancing ambition and scandal, and shadowy figures pulling strings behind the scenes. Set against the gritty backdrop of East San Fernando Valley, the story unfolds through sharp prose and a cast of characters as diverse as the urban sprawl they inhabit. From Javier’s fraught attempts to keep his younger brother Alex from the clutches of gang life, to the machinations of power players like Jones, the novel paints a vivid and unflinching portrait of contemporary struggles.

Hatch’s writing is a highlight of this novel. The dialogue feels so real you can almost hear it echoing through a high school hallway. The humor is dry but frequent, as seen in moments like Javier’s sardonic observations about his economics teacher, Mr. Patel, who “recaps markers more than he teaches.” Jones, the principal antagonist, is a chillingly effective character. His calculated ruthlessness feels simultaneously inhuman and disturbingly relatable, making him a formidable force. Despite the overwhelming odds, Javier and Gio—an especially standout character—refuse to back down. Their determination and grit resonate deeply, keeping readers invested and rooting for their success.

Family loyalty versus personal ambition is a recurring theme, as Javier sacrifices his own future to protect Alex, whose flirtation with gang life is portrayed with chilling realism. The journey is harrowing, and the struggle often feels insurmountable, yet the emotional stakes are what drive the story forward. Readers are drawn into the desperate hope that the characters will prevail. Gone To Ground is a story that lingers long after the final page.

Gone to Ground is an engrossing read for anyone who appreciates layered storytelling with heart and edge. It’s a gritty, honest look at life in Los Angeles that doesn’t flinch from the darker realities but also finds moments of hope and resilience.