It’s not very often that a book grabs hold of you and won’t let go. It’s even more rare that a virtually unknown writer is the one to do the grabbing. However, The Girl Before, Rena Olsen’s debut novel, did just that.
By her own admission, Rena Olsen is “a writer, therapist, teacher, sometimes singer, and eternal optimist. By day she tries to save the world as a school therapist, and at night she creates new worlds in her writing.”
This book is haunting, beautifully written and a thrilling ride. It’s also an eye opener into the grittier side of human nature.
It opens with a raid and takes you on a wild ride of innocence broken. Told in alternating then and now snippets, the story of a young woman used and abused unfolds, revealing a tale of utmost strength and survival.
The Girl Before has been chosen for the October reads for both book clubs. We will also use it as a Community Read which will culminate with an author visit by Ms. Olsen on November 12.
- Books-n-Brew meets at 6:30pm on October 14th.
- Early Bird Book Club meets at 8:30am on October 18.
Stop by the library to reserve your copy today, and stay tuned on our blog for other events surrounding our Community Read.
