Dervla McTiernan

I'm now watching for any new books by Dervla McTiernan. Her Cormac Reilly series got me hooked on her writing. This is a stand alone book about a young woman, Nina and her boyfriend of four years, Simon. When Nina disappears, Simon claims his innocence and his wealthy parents pull out all the stops to protect him. While this story certainly has the overtones of the Gabby Pettito case, the author does an excellent job showing both sides of the case and putting together a story that I couldn't stop listening to. I certainly hope Dervla McTiernan has another new book almost ready because I can't wait!!!… (mais)

Nina and Simon, a young couple attending separate universities in Vermont, go away together for a week's holiday, but at the end of a week Simon returns alone. He says he left Nina alone at the holiday cabin, but concerns are raised when Nina does not contact her parents. Simon says they broke up on their last night together, but gives differing versions of why it happened.

As Nina's parents become concerned the police become involved and the rumour mill begins.

This plot has lots of twists, and the compelling story is told through a number of voices.

Inside stories for both families are revealed for the reader.

Dervla McTiernan, Australian/Irish, is certainly one to watch… (mais)

The story begins with Nina telling us that we already know her story. She mentions her relationship with her boyfriend, Simon, a boy she grew up with and then fell in love with when she was 16. He becomes controlling, and sadly, that goes too far when they go on vacation together. Nina's mom is concerned when Nina doesn't respond to her texts or calls, and when she doesn't return from the vacation, her concern deepens. However, Simon's parents are very wealthy, and wage a campaign against Nina's family to protect their son. Yet, Nina's parents decide to fight back. When the law doesn't help them, they realize that they must get justice for Nina in their own way.
This is a powerful story of love, loss, and what a family will do for justice. Although I knew what happened to Nina, how her parents handled the situation was a surprise. I also liked how her younger sister, Grace, recognized Simon's faults and was able to stand up for herself. An interesting story and a warning to people in abusive situations - get out, before it is too late!… (mais)