Book Review

Penitence by Kristin M.E. Koval

Published Jan 28, 2025 by Celadon Books

A stunning and emotional debut novel about family, tragedy, mistakes and living with the heavy burden of guilt that comes from the choices we make. When thirteen year old Nora shoots and kills her brother, Nico, her parents cannot afford a defense attorney and turn to Julian, a criminal defense attorney, and ex-boyfriend of Nora's mother, Angie. Julian agrees to help the family despite his ties to Angie and their past involvement in a terrible accident that claimed Diana's life, Angie's younger sister.

Nico, whom Nora loved very much, was diagnosed with juvenile Huntington's disease, A heartbreaking diagnosis that would inevitably cut short his life. I originally thought this story may take a similar path to My Sister's Keeper by Jodie Picoult, but instead goes in a very different direction. The story focuses on Nora's case, the past tragedy of Diana, the lies, guilt and secrets everyone is carrying. All of the characters are flawed, and cope with their pain and sins in their own way, whether through denial, alcohol, or work, and this makes them feel very real and authentic. Koval did a fantastic job. This book was gripping, emotional and as hard to put down as it is to forget.

Thank you, Celadon Books, and BookishFirst for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book.

Rating: ★★★★