I was first introduced to Simone St. James a few years ago with her book Lost Among the Living. I still remember that story which is sometimes rare due to the fact I read so many books.
However, something struck me with the author’s writing and the plot that just affected me so greatly. So when I was given the chance to review her newest release, you can bet I was all over that.
Here are my thoughts on her new book. Another addition to her mystery suspense theme with a touch of romance.
The Broken Girls by Simone St. James
Publisher: Berkley (March 20, 2018)
ISBN-13: 978-0451476203
Vermont, 1950. There’s a place for the girls whom no one wants–the troublemakers, the illegitimate, the too smart for their own good. It’s called Idlewild Hall. And in the small town where it’s located, there are rumors that the boarding school is haunted. Four roommates bond over their whispered fears, their budding friendship blossoming–until one of them mysteriously disappears. . . .
Vermont, 2014. As much as she’s tried, journalist Fiona Sheridan cannot stop revisiting the events surrounding her older sister’s death. Twenty years ago, her body was found lying in the overgrown fields near the ruins of Idlewild Hall. And though her sister’s boyfriend was tried and convicted of murder, Fiona can’t shake the suspicion that something was never right about the case.
When Fiona discovers that Idlewild Hall is being restored by an anonymous benefactor, she decides to write a story about it. But a shocking discovery during the renovations will link the loss of her sister to secrets that were meant to stay hidden in the past–and a voice that won’t be silenced. . . .
Review of The Broken Girls by Simone St. James
The first thing that struck me about this story was the creep factor. I think everyone has an experience where you can just feel something’s not right. Something bad had happened or maybe you feel weird about a building.
That’s the feeling you get within the very first chapters of this book. Whether you believe in spirits or ghosts or not, this is a ghost story. A good one! It creeped me out a few times! But it is also a sad story on many levels too.
Told in chapters of alternating time, you get the story from the girls point of view that live at Idlewild Hall. Their fears, sadness, problems, and their fragile connections. Then we get today’s story. The renovation, after effects of Fiona’s sister’s murder, and Fiona’s diligence to find the truth, no matter the cost.
The author has an amazing talent to craft a story with haunting effects. She gives us a taste of history, a touch of tenuous romance, some great twists full of suspense, and a ending that may surprise you, or not.
The Broken Girls left me with different feelings on many levels. On one hand I hated for the book to end because it was engrossing and just so good. On the other hand, I was anxious to see how the author would wind it up and tie that pretty little bow.
St. James brings mystery suspense to a new level with this book. If you can handle a good mystery that will give you a few creeps, you need to read The Broken Girls. It will stay with you for a while!
PS.. Maybe not one to read before bed….
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.