Rock climbing is no small feat. It demands athleticism, skill, and unwavering focus. Finn knows this well. An experienced climber, she respects the risks that come with the sport she loves. As she prepares for her latest ascent into the Australian wilderness, Finn isn’t just checking the strength of her ropes and gear—she’s also bracing herself for a different kind of challenge.
For years, Finn and her best friend Daphne were inseparable, bonded by a heartbreaking connection. Both lost their sisters to suicide. That shared grief became the foundation of a deep friendship. Time marches on, though, and now Finn is in a new chapter of her life, building a relationship with her girlfriend, Magdu.
Hoping to bridge the gap between past and present, Finn invites both women on a celebratory climb. She’s triple-checked the gear and done her best to prepare emotionally. But nothing could prepare her for what happens next.
As the book’s title ominously suggests, Magdu's rope snaps. In an instant, a joyful adventure turns into a nightmare. Stunned and grieving, Finn must reckon with the possibility that this wasn’t just a tragic accident. As doubts creep in and secrets rise to the surface, she’s forced to question everything she thought she knew about the people she loves, the life she’s built, and what really happened on that cliff.
Girl Falling sees Hayley Scrivenor explore the fragile threads of friendship, family, and the trust we place in those closest to us. The tragic accident that opens the novel is merely the spark for a series of thrilling and deeply emotional revelations. Scrivenor masterfully weaves between past and present, giving readers glimpses into Finn’s relationships with both Daphne and Magdu, even as we watch her navigate the grief and uncertainty that follows Magdu’s death. This dual timeline adds a richness that pushes the story beyond a typical mystery.
There’s also a powerful commentary on the relationship between Finn and Magdu, particularly in the way Magdu’s parents struggle to accept their daughter’s sexuality. Scrivenor touches on this with nuance, offering an important reminder that LGBTQ+ rights aren’t just about love or marriage. They’re about the right to grieve, to be acknowledged, and to be treated with dignity in every corner of life.
Ultimately, Girl Falling delivers a suspenseful mystery with real emotional heft. While the twist at the end didn’t entirely land for me, it didn’t take away from the novel’s overall impact. It’s a solid, thoughtful read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2025, 29)
"an important reminder that LGBTQ+ rights aren’t just about love or marriage. They’re about the right to grieve, to be acknowledged, and to be treated with dignity in every corner of life" - yes! I like that this book touches on that.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure that this book is the right fit for my reading mood at the moment, but you know I'll be checking it out when the mood is right.
It's an important topic that's been made all the more timely!
DeleteI like the rock climbing element in this one, though I can't imagine watching a loved one fall like that! This one is probably not the right book for me right now, but I'm glad you enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteYou definitely need to be in the right mindset for this one.
DeleteI have no doubts that this would be emotional. I gasped at points when I read your review.
ReplyDeleteIt's a book filled with big emotions. It makes for a pretty powerful read!
DeleteThat does sound good and I can see why this would be an emotional read.
ReplyDeleteVery much so!
DeleteThis sounds like an emotional and important read. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Great review!
ReplyDeleteThanks!
DeleteThis sounds like a gripping tale Ethan!
ReplyDeleteVery much so!
DeleteYikes, I mean I saw the rope but still did not think...
ReplyDeleteYeah, it starts with a real bang.
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