The Broken Girls
A journalist uncovers the dark secrets of an abandoned boarding school in this chilling suspense novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Sun Down Motel.
Vermont, 1950. There's a place for the girls whom no one wants—the troublemakers, the illegitimate, the ones too smart for their own good. It's called Idlewild Hall, and local legend says the boarding school is haunted. Four roommates bond over their whispered fears, their friendship blossoming—until one of them mysteriously disappears....
Vermont, 2014. Twenty years ago, journalist Fiona Sheridan's elder sister’s body was found in the overgrown fields near the ruins of Idlewild Hall. And although her sister’s boyfriend was tried and convicted of the murder, Fiona can’t stop revisiting the events, unable to shake the feeling that something was never right about the case.
When Fiona discovers that Idlewild Hall is being restored by an anonymous benefactor, she decides to write a story about it. But a shocking discovery during renovations links the loss of her sister to secrets that were meant to stay hidden in the past—and a voice that won’t be silenced....
Vermont, 1950. There's a place for the girls whom no one wants—the troublemakers, the illegitimate, the ones too smart for their own good. It's called Idlewild Hall, and local legend says the boarding school is haunted. Four roommates bond over their whispered fears, their friendship blossoming—until one of them mysteriously disappears....
Vermont, 2014. Twenty years ago, journalist Fiona Sheridan's elder sister’s body was found in the overgrown fields near the ruins of Idlewild Hall. And although her sister’s boyfriend was tried and convicted of the murder, Fiona can’t stop revisiting the events, unable to shake the feeling that something was never right about the case.
When Fiona discovers that Idlewild Hall is being restored by an anonymous benefactor, she decides to write a story about it. But a shocking discovery during renovations links the loss of her sister to secrets that were meant to stay hidden in the past—and a voice that won’t be silenced....
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Community Reviews
This was a well written suspense novel that takes place in two time periods- the 1950âs and present day. I enjoyed reading about both time periods and the author really draws you into the setting. The mystery itself about who killed Fiona was well done. What I did not enjoy was the supernatural aspect of the book. The ghost, Mary Hand, is written as an actual character who has powers to show you things about your past.
You'll love the characters and the pace!
From the beginning, this book is a true page-turner! The back and forth in time ramp up the tension until you spend two nights in a row staying up late to find out what happens next! Superb!!
From the beginning, this book is a true page-turner! The back and forth in time ramp up the tension until you spend two nights in a row staying up late to find out what happens next! Superb!!
This story parallels different girls from different backgrounds at different ages from different times. It jumps perspective and from 1950 to 2014 and shines light on how little and how much the world has changed and how the roles of women differ between the two. Their is a spooky history and a compelling mystery to solve as you get to know the well developed and intricate characters along the journey. Great read, compelling, well paced, creepy and so very satisfying and unique.
If you like a little supernatural in your mystery, Simone St. James' books are for you! I enjoyed this story.
I have to say, thereâs a reason Iâve been captivated by Simone St. James! This latest book has solidified her status as my all-time favorite author. Every page turned was pure magic, and itâs clear she will always be my go-to choice when Iâm on the hunt for my next great read! I can't wait to dive into more of her incredible stories!
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