Stillwater Rising by Steena Holmes

Holmes new book deals with the aftermath of a school shooting. Fans of Jodi Picoult’s 19 Minutes might worry that Holmes book may be similar and thus unworthy. Rest assured, this is a solid book that stands on its own.

Most of the book focuses on two women, friends, who react differently to the shooting; the mayor, Charlotte Stone whose husband is the school principal and Jennifer Crowne who lost a son in the violence. Charlotte wants the town to heal, to move forward, and to understand that the shooter’s mother is a victim also. Jennifer wants the school torn down and blames the shooter’s mother for the violence. The schism this causes between these women overflows to encompass everyone around them. It is Holmes ability to make these women come alive that makes this a great book.

While the book does have a resolution, Holmes throws one last curve ball on the last page, and it is masterful!

Due to be published November 11^th, this is a book to buy as soon as it comes out.                                           

I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.