THE EVIDENCE

5 stars out of 5

Does having read six of the author's previous books qualify me as a die-hard fan? You bet. And here's another sure thing: This one is further evidence that she's still a winner in my book.

It begins as Esme Fox, a journalist who left a day job to start a podcasting company with her sister, Michelle, is recording a podcast session with Simone Fischer, a woman convicted of murdering her husband. During her years in prison - where she remains - she's never spoken to anyone the details of how (and more important, why) she committed the crime. But for whatever reason, she's agreed to open up to Esme.

During their relatively brief first conversation, Esme is won over; Simone, she believes, is speaking the truth and her case needs to be reviewed with fresh eyes. But while the first podcast goes viral - virtually guaranteeing that Simone's fledgling company will be successful - not everyone is delighted that the case may be rehashed, including Simone's brother and now-grown son.

Behind the scenes, Esme has a 9-year-old son, Zachary, who suffers physical and mental injuries sustained in an earlier hit-and-run incident. She's also parted ways with her husband Owen, who's moved to a flat but keeps trying to get back in Esme's good graces. Esme's sister has moved in to help with Zachary, and the future is looking bright.

Until somebody hits the dimmer switch. With no warning, Michelle bails on an important meeting with a company prominent in the podcasting field. When she's found brutally beaten and dumped in a wooded area, Esme is devastated. The only person she can rely on now - albeit reluctantly - is the controlling husband (and his equally controlling parents) who'd love nothing better than to get back to doing their thing in her life. More to the point, Esme suddenly sees parallels with her life and Simone's, making her question everything that's happened up to this point.

From here on, you'll have to read the book to find out more. There's plenty of action complete with twists and turns (although I must say they're coupled with a fair amount of predictability). All told, it makes for an entertaining, easy to read story I think will hold your attention throughout as it did mine. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.

The Evidence by K.L. Slater (Bookouture, July 2021); 370 pp.