Lisa M. Matlin’s previous novel, The Stranger Upstairs, is one of my favorite books of the last few years. I can’t even remember all the details of the plot (which is more the fault of my poor memory than any flaw in Matlin’s writing); I just remember Matlin’s incredibly entertaining writing style, and the many intriguing plot twists.
All of this is to say, I was so excited to read Matlin’s latest novel, The Only One Who Knows, and I was not disappointed.
After a dramatic exit from her job on a toxic morning news show, Minnow returns to her hometown of Kangaroo Bay, a place fueled by toxic masculinity. Minnow’s parents both died under mysterious circumstances, and her only remaining family member is her brother Heath. Heath runs the family business, shark hunting. However, when dead bodies wash up, and shark attacks become more frequent, Minnow must don her journalist hat once again, and uncover some incredibly murky things beneath the water’s surface.
Matlin has written another engrossing, twisty novel, which I got through in about four sittings. The central character, Minnow, is strong and relatable; right from the start I was cheering her tenacity and determination to shed herself from her hateful past. The supporting characters are also well-drawn, especially Minnow’s brother Heath, and his nemesis Luke.
Imagine Jaws written by Liane Moriarty, but with a little more levity, and you’re pretty much there. Fun, engaging, and terrifying.
California Reading 