What Happened to Nina? By Dervla McTiernan is a 2024 William Morrow publication.

Nina goes away with her boyfriend, Simon, on a little vacation- but she did not return home as scheduled. When her parents discover that Simon made it back okay, they try to find out why Nina wasn’t with him and where she might be, thus beginning a harrowing search for their missing daughter, and a wicked campaign by Simon’s parents to protect their son from any insinuation of wrongdoing….

Any true crime follower will recognize this familiar setup as it mirrors that of the Gabby Patito case. It’s a fictionalized version where we envision how the murder occurs, how each family approached their unique circumstances, and the view from the perspective of law enforcement as they try to find proof of their suspicions amid a social media onslaught of trolls and bots determined to sway the court of public opinion.

Overall, this is one of those ‘ripped from the headlines’ novels that, despite its familiarity, had me in its grip from start to finish. It’s very well executed, perfectly paced, and quite effecting.

4+ stars ( )

Riveting and thrilling domestic suspense.

Simon and Nina had been a couple since they were 16 years old. Once both went off to college, their relationship started to change. In an effort to regain their close bond, they take a week-long trip to do some climbing and hiking at Simon's family cabin in Vermont. Only Simon returns home. So, what happened to Nina? The police get involved and the investigation explodes as both families close ranks and the news goes viral on social media. Speculation, rumor, and innuendo create a disturbing subtext that makes the truth even harder to find. Nina's family wants answers and Simon's parents stonewall every attempt at discovery.

The narrative shifts in point of view primarily between each parent -- and all want only one thing. Simon's parents want him not to be responsible for whatever happened to Nina and her parents want her to come home.

I listened to the audiobook while also reading along in the e-book ARC provided by the publisher. The production was excellent with a very talented group of narrators who gave so much depth to the characters and the story.

I could not bear to put this down as it kept me totally on edge waiting to find out what would happen next. Also, I could not help but note the disturbing similarities between this plot and the true crime events surrounding the case of Gabby Petito who was murdered by her fiancé.

This is my penultimate favorite book so far this year and I fear that everyone I know will suffer my book stalking. I definitely give this 4.5 stars. It was emotionally gripping and I am sure I will be thinking about it for some time. ( )

I'm now watching for any new books by Dervla McTiernan. Her Cormac Reilly series got me hooked on her writing. This is a stand alone book about a young woman, Nina and her boyfriend of four years, Simon. When Nina disappears, Simon claims his innocence and his wealthy parents pull out all the stops to protect him. While this story certainly has the overtones of the Gabby Pettito case, the author does an excellent job showing both sides of the case and putting together a story that I couldn't stop listening to. I certainly hope Dervla McTiernan has another new book almost ready because I can't wait!!! ( )

Nina and Simon, a young couple attending separate universities in Vermont, go away together for a week's holiday, but at the end of a week Simon returns alone. He says he left Nina alone at the holiday cabin, but concerns are raised when Nina does not contact her parents. Simon says they broke up on their last night together, but gives differing versions of why it happened.

As Nina's parents become concerned the police become involved and the rumour mill begins.

This plot has lots of twists, and the compelling story is told through a number of voices.

Inside stories for both families are revealed for the reader.

Dervla McTiernan, Australian/Irish, is certainly one to watch ( )

McTiernan involves the reader in seeking answers and justice and different points of view bring the story to life. She shows how quickly opinions and loyalties, if they exist, can pivot quickly. The strain on both families is palpable and how money and distance can seem to influence and deflect was also very well done. ( )