I love when a book is good, then throws in a twist that makes it great. That is exactly what Fiona Barton has done with The Child. The chapters alternate to different points of views from different characters. This can become muddy and confusing if not done right. Fiona nailed it. It broadened the story and gave it the depth it needed.
Kate Waters is a reporter. Or, at least, she used to be. It seems anymore all she does is rewrites. As technology is evolving, the reporter way of life is as well. Soon, the senior reporters and journalists will be outcaste, replaced by the younger more tech savvy. The paper that once thrived on foot-to-pavement work, now draws more traffic to the website and the latest celebrity gossip. So when Kate sees an article in the paper about the body of a newborn found buried, in a construction site, her interest is piqued. Who is the baby? How did it die? Where is its mother?
Across town Emma is trying to focus on work. When she reads the paper her husband brought home, she comes across the article about the baby. She freezes, gripped with fear. As she tries to go on pretending everything is ok, her husband recognizes the changes. She can tell he is worried she is succumbing to her past demons.
Kate is the perfect protagonist for this novel. She is witty and cunning, but most of all she will stop at nothing to uncover the truth, even if it means stepping on some toes along the way. She becomes emotionally involved, which makes her easy to relate too. Emma is the opposite. She is emotionally broken and comes off as very timid and withdrawn. The ending was a bit predictable, but it was so beautifully written, I honestly didn’t mind. I look forward to reading more from Fiona Barton.
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