A review by pollyem
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll

challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

“Law enforcement would rather we remember a dull man as brilliant than take a good hard look at the role they played in this absolute sideshow, and I am sick to death of watching them in their pressed shirts and cowboy boots, in their comfortable leather interview chairs, in hugely successful and critically acclaimed crime documentaries, talking about the intelligence and charm and wiliness of an ordinary misogynist."
This book is a peak behind the curtain into 'impossible grief'. Pamela loses her best-friend to someone whom reporters portray as a cunning, attractive man who used these skills to his advantage when women fell at his feet. This couldn't be further from the truth.
A page-turning dive into the misogyny towards victims and the discovery that there is no perfect way to be a victim. This is a fictionalised account of the story that is so often glossed over in the obsession with 'The Defendant'. The power of survivors and their hunger for truth and justice. 
Knoll's writing style was captivating, leaving me wanting to read on, even as rage boiled within me. If you want a read with a darker side, that will light a spark in your belly, this book could be for you.
To my fellow survivors, I see you.
Tread carefully.
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