Girl, 11

This is a debut novel? WHAT? I’m completely blown away… Before I get into this review, let me take a moment to appreciate this fabulous cover—so pretty and eye catching! Kudos to the jacket designer. ? All right, here we go—let’s talk about this incredible debut. Girl, 11 is a Twin Cities based “true” crime suspense that breaks down the murders of The Countdown Killer, a serial killer that sprung in the late 90s (fictional). The MC, Elle, a former CPS worker and now the host of a popular crime podcast, Justice Delayed, finds herself immersed in the TCK’s history and story. She’s much closer to the investigation than she wants to let on. This book is such a great representation of Minnesota (aside from the whole serial killer thing ?)—it’s evident the author is familiar with the area and its landmarks and as a lifelong Minnesotan myself, it was such a treat to read. Told as part podcast, part narrative, the two blended together effortlessly. Such an ingenious way to break things up and keep the reader engaged. I could not put this book down! An absolutely outstanding debut from a fellow (former) Minnesotan. I already know I’ll be first in line for whatever she puts out next. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Bought this based on an utterly misleading NYT review, as noted by a recent Amazon reviewer. This author, whose writing is serviceable if not inspiring, proposes that a social worker turned podcaster has a “career” investigating serial killings and “catching” their perpetrators. While she sees nothing wrong with contaminating a crime scene because of her “need” to know, she claims to have a moral obligation to a murdered possible informant to continue her inquiries. She admonishes her worried husband by insisting that risk-taking is required in her pursuit of the killer. What??? Has a true crime (sort of) podcaster ever caught a murderer? Is this plot even remotely plausible? What’s portrayed here is not a clever, determined and resourceful hero, but the kind of fantasy which might infect the sort of egomaniac who flourishes all over the internet. What’s next, an “influencer” who turns vigilante against poorly dressed criminals? Yes, I know we’ve been assaulted for many years by the cliche private eye who nabs felons while protecting dames and selflessly donating his fees to widows and orphans, but this is a new low.

Nice concept and I enjoyed the podcast sections of the book. However, Elle, the main character, is a very messed up person, and I didn’t enjoy the sections where she is the focus. Her husband is a caricature, her behavior annoying/irrational and the idea that any important police figure would take her seriously and allow her to be involved in their cases just absurd. Liked the story, disliked and disbelieved the main character. Plus, background of the killer was incredibly trite and implausible. The New York Times review really lead me astray. I do not consider this worthy of all the attention it’s gotten. Three stars.

I am in a quandary. As a lover of true crime and suspense novels, I read the review of this book in the NYT Book Review and immediately ordered it. I am wondering if the critic and I read the same book. If a book is well written, with realistic characters and a plot that slowly reveals its ending, I find it hard to put down. This was a difficult read and without giving away the plot, was easy for a reader to \”write\” 20 pages into the book. The author fictionalized Michelle McNamara, and threw her in a plot that wouldn\’t stand up to a Lifetime movie script. This one is going into the free book stand at work on Monday. Dissapointing.

This book helps my interest from beginning to end. A solid plot, good characters, and some twists along the way propel the story to its harrowing climax. If you enjoy dark and twisty, you’ll love Girl, 11.

Galaxyaudiobook Member Benefit

- Able to comment

- List watched audiobooks

- List favorite audiobooks

- Bookmark will only available for Galaxyaudiobook member