REVIEW: KISS THE GIRLS & MAKE THEM CRY, BY MARY HIGGINS CLARK

When investigative journalist Gina Kane receives an email from a “CRyan” describing her “terrible experience” while working at REL, a high-profile television news network, including the comment “and I’m not the only one,” Gina knows she has to pursue the story. But when Ryan goes silent, Gina is shocked to discover the young woman has died tragically in a Jet Ski accident while on holiday.

Meanwhile, REL counsel Michael Carter finds himself in a tricky spot. Several female employees have come forward with allegations of sexual misconduct. Carter approaches the CEO, offering to persuade the victims to accept settlements in exchange for their silence. It’s a risky endeavor, but it could well make him rich.

As more allegations emerge and the company’s IPO draws near, Carter’s attempts to keep the story from making headlines are matched only by Gina Kane’s determination to uncover the truth. Was Ryan’s death truly an accident? And when another accuser turns up dead, Gina realizes someone—or some people—will go to depraved lengths to keep the story from seeing the light.

 An enticing MeToo story brings Gina Kane into the thick of a mystery that turns to murders in Kiss the Girls and Make Them Cry. Alternating narrators reveal the players, and we soon realize that what Gina has discovered is bigger than anyone could have imagined.

The story takes us into Gina’s personal life, too, with her relationship with Ted unexpectedly linked to some of these events. Her father, who has connections to someone who could turn his world upside down, may have a new happily-ever-after, or a disaster waiting to happen.

I like how the author gives us numerous layers to peel back before we find the answers about who is doing what to whom. And I enjoyed realizing that the identity of the murderer would be a surprising reveal. Another 5 star read for me.

 

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