I have to say I hesitated when I was asked to review this book. Reading the synopsis, I wasn’t sure if I could deal with a story about the death of a child.
But after I thought about it, I was compelled to accept and, oh my gosh, this book is so totally worth the read! Just be prepared with tissues by your side! Here are my thoughts on this new release that is coming in February.
The Night Olivia Fell by Christina McDonald
Publisher: Gallery Books (February 5, 2019)
ISBN-13: 978-1501184000
ABOUT:
A search for the truth. A lifetime of lies.
In the small hours of the morning, Abi Knight is startled awake by the phone call no mother ever wants to get: her teenage daughter Olivia has fallen off a bridge. Not only is Olivia brain dead, she’s pregnant and must remain on life support to keep her baby alive. And then Abi sees the angry bruises circling Olivia’s wrists.
When the police unexpectedly rule Olivia’s fall an accident, Abi decides to find out what really happened that night. Heartbroken and grieving, she unravels the threads of her daughter’s life. Was Olivia’s fall an accident? Or something far more sinister?
Christina McDonald weaves a suspenseful and heartwrenching tale of hidden relationships, devastating lies, and the power of a mother’s love. With flashbacks of Olivia’s own resolve to uncover family secrets, this taut and emotional novel asks: how well do you know your children? And how well do they know you?
The Night Olivia Fell by Christina McDonald: Review
I have to say that I don’t think I’ve ever cried as much while reading a story as I have in this one. To say this novel is an emotional ride is an understatement. If you have a child, this would have to be a nightmare.
The author did an amazing job building the story. Strong, believable characters, each with amazing personalities, just stepped out of pages. They are the kids next-door. They are your child’s best friends. How could any of them have anything to do with the accident?
But one thing the story brings to the forefront is that while we think we know our child, do we really know what’s going on behind the scenes? And what do we have hidden from them that could back and haunt you?
I cried for the emotional ups and downs this parent had to go through. I cried because the police didn’t do enough. I cried for the lost opportunity of this young child and the life she left behind. I cried for the broken hearts but also for the new life that had begun and the future for all involved.
The ending was amazing, and quite simply, it was a perfect way to end the story. While inside we are gutted, we are left with a bit of hope and happiness for the future, like spring anew.
I was scared to read this book because I have a young adult son. But in the end I’m so glad that I did because The Night Olivia Fell is a remarkable story written in such a way that you will never, ever forget it.
Impactful, engrossing, and written with emotion and deep passion. Definitely make time in your day before reading this one because once you start you simply cannot put it down.
5 flipping stars!
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.
