I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Give Me Your Hand by Megan Abbott Published by Little, Brown on July 17, 2018
Genres: Contemporary Women, Crime, Fiction, Psychological, Suspense, Thrillers
Pages: 352
Format: eARC
Source: the publisher
In high school, Kit Owens' professional ambitions were minimal. Then Diane Fleming walked into her high school chemistry class. Diane was a brilliant student and it awakened a passion for science within Kit. The two developed a close friendship that only waned when Diane revealed a shocking secret that immediately changed things between them.
Now an adult, Kit has her dream job, working for her idol as they undergo groundbreaking new research surrounding premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Her past comes rushing back when she learns that Diane has obtained a position within the very lab in which she works. The two are forced to compete against one another for a position they both covet.Diane's secret comes rushing back from the past, proving that nothing can stop her from obtaining what she desires, no matter the consequences.
If you haven’t experienced the brilliant writings of Abbott, you are certainly missing out. She excels at capturing the female psyche and the brilliant (and simultaneously horrifying) relationships between women. Just when you think she’s reached the pinnacle of psychological suspense, she pushes the barriers yet again and proves that there is no stopping her talent.
I was particularly pleased with the underlying message regarding the disorder in which they are researching; study into just how much one’s body (and mind and soul) can be influenced by hormones is much needed. Women have long been victims of the monthly “curse” that causes havoc with their entire body. The premenstrual dysphoric disorder Abbott references is a valid medical disorder that is debilitating to its victims. The effects of such a disorder should not be ignored, but studied and understood.
That said, Abbott weaves this message in seamlessly, without making it a sermon or a pervasive aspect of the novel. Rather, she continues on her passion and talent: the complexity of female relationships. A paramount theme is the power of secrets, and whether or not the damage lies in telling them…or keeping them.
All in all, another outstandingly intense read! A must for this summer. Highly, highly recommended.
