Kristin Koval’s debut novel exceeds all expectations. It opens with the unthinkable, something that happens on the news, and most certainly not in the small town of Lodgepole, Colorado. Nora Sheehan, thirteen years old, murdered her brother Nico. Her parents, Angie and David have no idea what to do next and use Martine Dumont as legal counsel. Martine is not a criminal defense lawyer, but her son Julian is.
Decades earlier, Julian and Angie were young, in love and always together. Their untimely separation was due to another familial tragedy that is layered in protection and secrets. This story is beautifully crafted, with a compelling pace and emotional depth. It weaves together dual timelines and multiple points of view, keeping the reader fully engaged in each perspective. At its core, the narrative explores themes of grief, guilt, redemption, healing, forgiveness, and love.
The novel also offers a poignant reflection on the justice system, especially the juvenile justice system, leaving me with much to ponder. Even days after finishing the book, I find myself still thinking about sorrow and regret, and reflecting on things from my own past that I have done wrong.
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Purchase Penitence
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Barrington Books
Chapter 2 Books
Murder By The Book
Once Upon A Crime
The Book Dragon
The Poisoned Pen
