What She Knew by Gilly MacMillan

by:  Gilly MacMillan
published by:  William Morrow
publish date:  December 1, 2015

Rachel Jenner is walking in a Bristol park with her eight-year-old son, Ben, when he asks if he can run ahead. It’s an ordinary request on an ordinary Sunday afternoon, and Rachel has no reason to worry—until Ben vanishes.  

Police are called, search parties go out, and Rachel, already insecure after her recent divorce, feels herself coming undone. As hours and then days pass without a sign of Ben, everyone who knew him is called into question, from Rachel’s newly married ex-husband to her mother-of-the-year sister. Inevitably, media attention focuses on Rachel too, and the public’s attitude toward her begins to shift from sympathy to suspicion.

This book reminded me of so many real life kidnapping stories.  Initially, the entire country is captivated and there is a collective heartfelt reaction for the mother.  Everyone suffers with her.  Then, inevitably, everyone turns against her.  It seems like it always happens.  Why didn't she take better care?  Did she kill her child and this is all a cover up?  It seems easier to believe that than there are really bad people out there.

What She Knew is one of those books where everyone is questionable.  I'm usually pretty good at figuring these mysteries out, but this one had me guessing.  I didn't see the ending of this one coming.  

I definitely recommend this one!  Great job Gilly Macmillan on your debut novel!