March 10, 2026
NetGalley
Mariner Books
Mystery, fiction, thriller, psychological, lgbtqi, library loan, audio book
384 pages
6/26/26-6/28/26
4/5
This book is not for everyone. The whole book is loaded with triggers which the author blatantly warns with explanation. It is a difficult read because of the truth behind the words which likely resonate with anyone affected by assault.This is her first book of fiction following her memoir which mirrors events in this book.
The story is written with intention regarding the several POV of different characters. In particular, Birdie Chang who is a survivor of sexual assault as a child. She escapes to Whidbey Island for respite when she learns that her abuser, Calvin Boyer was released from prison. Mary-Beth Boyer is his mother who valiantly stands by her son through all the accusations and prison sentences. Her point of view will likely be uncomfortable for people to read as it’s an ignorant blatant opinion of the son she believes is innocent. Then, Linzie Gwendolyn King explains how she was also sexually assaulted by Calvin as well as several other victims she wants to represent in her tell-all book.
When Calvin is found dead in the side of the road appearing to have been run over several times, most people are relieved to have the offender off the streets. This event stirs up anger and frustration in Mary-Beth whose only concern is who murdered her son. The story alternates between the characters and the people in their lives who overlap given the complexity of the story. There were many people who wanted Calvin dead for the trauma he caused in many trusting naïve girls.
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