Pamela was the president of Chi Omega, her sorority at Florida State University the night of the tragedy. Tina was Ruth’s best friend in Seattle. Now these unlikely allies have joined forces to make sure the Defendant finally sees justice for his crimes against those they loved.

Oh, I loved this book, just as I loved the author’s LUCKIEST GIRL ALIVE. First and foremost, bless the author a million times for never once using the bastard’s name, for time and time again pointing out what a loser he was, how average (or below average) he was, and for making clear how interviews painting him as intelligent were likely either attempts to kiss up to him in hopes of getting an exclusive interview or attempts to minimize the culpability of law enforcement officials who allowed him to escape or who couldn’t manage to catch him. He wasn’t that smart. He wasn’t that good looking. He was a malevolent POS who had a lot of luck.

And, then, these phenomenal women. Pamela, who overcame uncaring parents and a boyfriend who kept her firmly in her place. Tina, who chafed against the rules that society set for her. And lest we forget, the lost women who did the same. They, collectively, stood up to this horror and they won. This book, though fiction, wants us to examine them and their stories, not his. And not the other men who tried to tear them down, didn’t believe them, ridiculed them. Because, sadly, the Defendant is not the only villain they come up against. But theirs are the names we’ll remember at the end. As it should be.

Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll is a stunning dark crime mystery novel, inspired by real serial killer Ted Bundy and his coast to coast crime spree in the 1970s.
This is very much a character driven story. Central figure Pamela Schumacher is the linchpin, as the reader is introduced to her in present day, and then hears her account of surviving the horror of her sorority sisters’ murders at Florida State University in 1978, and then, a few years later, hears her testimony in the trial of the murderer, known through most of the book as The Defendant.
Pam is a strong, organized young woman who is relentless in her pursuit of the truth about her friends’ killer. Along the way, she crosses paths with other strong women and mentors, particularly Tina, who is a college lecturer and teaches classes on handling impossible (unresolved) grief. Tina’s life was also affected by the same killer, and her character is the vehicle for the story to inspect the killer’s background and motivations for murdering women.
The author deftly juggles three timelines, involving multiple characters and locations for each. The time periods/chapters are labeled, and it is not hard to become fully immersed in each thread, as they are woven together and end with a satisfying conclusion.
The ‘70’s were a time of onerous misogynistic attitudes and mores, punctuated by the emerging voices of fearless women, vocalizing their desire for more recognition and respect for all the smart, independent women across America’s diverse cultural landscape.
Kudos to Jessica Knoll for writing an excellent criminal investigative story, which is enhanced by her also illuminating the power of women as they support and lift up each other.

Thank you to Marysue Rucci Books/Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC.
All the opinions are my own.

I loved this book. So clever to weave a famous actual killer into a fictional narrative with assurance and depth. It’s fantastic, and a real rip roaring read, I’m going to share with all.

3.5 stars. Definitely an engaging read that kept me turning the pages. The dialogue and prose were excellent. Perhaps I should have known this before picking up the book, but the fact that this was mostly fictional while maintaining key events and details of Ted Bundy’s killings sort of bothered me and made me wonder how the victims’ families feel. The dueling timelines did get a bit messy at times, especially when modern-day Pamela was describing past events and then jumping in and out of that past and present from paragraph to paragraph.
I prefer the book Notes on an Execution, which was wholly fiction, more clear, and the author’s goal of shedding light on the absurdity of the true crime industry was accomplished beautifully.
Overall, BYW is not a book that I regret reading but also not one I’d recommend.

Thank you Net Galley and S&S/Marysue Rucci Books for the eARC!

3.5 stars

Bright Young Women tells the fictionalized version of serial killer Ted Bundy's cross country murder spree. However, the defendant as he's known throughout the story is not the focus but instead a background character.

Instead the novel focuses on Pamela Schumacher sorority president and aspiring lawyer with a difficult childhood and a pressure to be perfect. Pamela's story intersects with Martina "Tina" Cannon, a lesbian, therapist and former housewife with childhood trauma. Two of Pamela's sorority sisters are killed by the defendant while Tina's "friend" Ruth went missing with the defendant the prime suspect. The two work together to try to find justice for their friends constantly thwarted by inept police, meddling journalists and even family members.

While Pamela and Tina are fictional the crimes committed are very real and those familiar with the story will see the ending coming. Knoll still manages to add some twists and turns.

I really enjoyed the story and really liked getting deep into the backstories of Pamela and Tina. I did feel like there were some details Knoll mentioned that weren't really followed up on especially regarding Pamela.

Overall I would recommend to fans of Jessica Knoll or true crime aficionados.

I was provided a free copy of this book through NetGalley.

I loved this one so much that I chose it as my Book of the Month for October so I could have a hard copy! Jessica Knoll gets better and better with every book she writes, and this one took storytelling to the next level. Intricate and twisty without being confusing or overcomplicated, the mature writing and character development is what sets this book apart from other thriller/mystery/murder novels that are out there right now. Highly recommend!

Bright Young Women is the exploration of the aftermath of a notorious crime, and the lives of the women touched by it.

Pamela Schumacher is the straight-laced president of her sorority, serious and studious, when her life is forever changed by an encounter with a serial killer. This shocking occasion brings Pamela into the sphere of Tina Cannon, who is also struggling in the wake of the disappearance of her closest friend, whom Tina is sure was a victim of the very same criminal. Pam and Tina are united under a single purpose, to ensure he answers for his crimes.

First, I want to point out this book is not a thriller. It may delve into some dark places, namely the public's appetite for salacious and violent crime, but it's a slow exposition. I think I'd classify Bright Young Women as literary crime fiction, just to set expectations. That isn't to say there's no tension or suspense, but most of the book is methodical and measured. I really liked that there is almost no focus on the notorious killer, but instead the women who stand in defiance to him. I've been thinking about this book endlessly since finishing, which is the hallmark of a truly terrific story, in my opinion. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to review this advance copy. Bright Young Women is available for purchase everywhere you buy books now!

"Bright Young Women" by Jessica Knoll is a gripping and intense thriller that skillfully blends elements of psychological suspense and true crime. With its well-crafted narrative, complex characters, and compelling plot, it's a must-read for fans of the genre.

The story begins in 1978 on a fateful Saturday night, just before a notorious murderer strikes a Florida sorority house, forever altering the lives of those who survive. Among them is Pamela Schumacher, the sorority president and a key witness to the horrifying events. Simultaneously, Tina Cannon, living across the country, is convinced that her missing friend fell victim to the same killer, referred to in the media as the All-American Sex Killer. As Pamela and Tina's paths intersect, they form an alliance to seek justice and closure, leading to a dramatic and shocking confrontation.

Jessica Knoll masterfully constructs a narrative that is both fast-paced and emotionally resonant. The tension and suspense are palpable, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The alternating perspectives of Pamela and Tina provide depth and insight into their characters and motivations, and their journey from fear and trauma to empowerment is both engaging and thought-provoking.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the sensationalism and media frenzy that often surround high-profile crimes. Knoll delves into the idea that the public's fascination with evil can overshadow the stories and experiences of the survivors and the real heroes who seek justice. This theme adds depth to the narrative and encourages readers to reflect on the societal dynamics at play.

The writing is evocative and vivid, creating a sense of time and place that immerses the reader in the 1970s setting. Knoll's ability to capture the essence of the era and the characters' emotions adds authenticity to the story.

Overall, "Bright Young Women" is a riveting and thought-provoking thriller that explores themes of resilience, justice, and the impact of media sensationalism. Jessica Knoll's storytelling prowess is on full display, making this novel a compelling and unforgettable read for fans of the genre. It's a testament to the strength of women and their ability to overcome adversity in the face of darkness.

#FirstLine ~ You may not remember me, but I have never forgotten you, begins the letter written on good navy-bordered stationery.

Bright Young Women is a riveting thriller by Jessica Knoll that promised an enthralling combination of psychological suspense and true crime. The novel tells the story of two women, Pamela Schumacher and Tina Cannon, whose lives collide in the wake of a heinous series of crimes committed by the same man. As they unite to seek justice, readers are in for a rollercoaster ride of suspense, intrigue, and unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of tragedy.

Knoll skillfully weaves two women's stories together, crafting a narrative that is both emotionally charged and pulse-pounding. Readers will find themselves invested in the characters of Pamela and Tina, two survivors whose strength and resilience shine through amidst the darkness that surrounds them.

The novel excels in its portrayal of the psychological toll that traumatic events can take on survivors. Pamela and Tina's experiences are visceral and haunting, making it impossible not to root for them as they seek closure and retribution. The author's meticulous research and attention to detail in crafting the true crime elements of the story lend an air of authenticity that adds to the chilling atmosphere.

Bright Young Women keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its relentless pace, unexpected twists, and a steadily building sense of dread. Jessica Knoll's storytelling prowess shines through, proving once again why she is a master of the thriller genre. The book's tension and suspense are palpable, making it nearly impossible to put down.

As the story hurtles toward its shocking and climactic confrontation, readers will find themselves holding their breath, eager to see justice served but also dreading what revelations may come to light. Bright Young Women is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and the unbreakable bonds that can form in the face of unspeakable evil.

Bright Young Women is an exceptional thriller that lives up to its acclaim and anticipation. Jessica Knoll's narrative prowess, combined with a gripping plot and well-drawn characters, makes this novel a must-read for fans of psychological suspense and true crime. It is a haunting and unforgettable tale of survival, justice, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit.

I really enjoyed this book. Loosely inspired by the crimes of Ted Bundy, Jessica Knoll's book inverts the discourse we're used to and focuses on the women whose lives were cut short, and on those who survived and thrived despite Bundy's best efforts. I loved the way Knoll shows the myriad ways men enact violence on women, both actively and passively. I felt this was a really lovely antidote to the current obsession with true crime. Though sometimes a little heavy handed and didactic, the message that Bundy (and all mythologized killers) are nothing special is timely and important. 4.5 rounded up to 5 stars.

Thanks to NetGalley and Simon Element, S&S/ Marysue Rucci Books for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Some many words of praise for this
Book. The topic of this book is not an easy one for many to want to read. It’s based loosely off the serial killings in the 1970s. Names and characters have been changed but the dates and locations are a reflection of actual events. This book never states the killers name but only calls him as the defendant. It focuses more on the survivors and the years following the events they went through. How those moments shaped the rest of their lives and become something that empowered them to do better for the world. For this fact this story is well written to document those characters. It’s told in dual point of views one of sorority house president Pamela and then a young woman by name of Ruth. Many thanks to Simon Element, S&S/ Marysue Rucci Books and NetGalley for the digital review copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Bright Young Women was fascinating and shocking. The material can be a little hard to read at times because it is so real. I went in reading it blind and was shocked to find out that it was based on Ted Bundy’s case. Now, there is a lot of Ted Bundy material out there but this book was very unique and brought up some very interesting concerns. Loved this book and can’t wait to see what this author writes next!

Wow, this was such a captivating read. It went back and forth in time with dual POVs and I couldn’t put this one down. Beautifully written and truly does the tragic event justice.

This book was so good! I didn't realize it was based on Ted Bundy's case before I started and that made me enjoy it even more. This is a great book for true crime lovers.

Heartbreaking and heart racing, this is one of the best novels of the year. Told from the perspective of the women murdered and the women who loved them, the killer (Ted Bundy) is never mentioned by name. Instead, a refreshingly feminist and realistic telling of the damage done by so called good looking and charming killers. I could not stop reading this and the women stay with you long after the last page.

Thank you for allowing me to read this book! I might be in the minority here, but it just didn’t grab my attention and felt a bit fabricated? The authors writing style just didn’t captivate me like others do. It felt like she took the story and added in her own bits that aren’t factual. Didn’t finish the book

I did not expect this type of book from Jessica Knoll. Her first book is one of my all time favorites, but her second release definitely suffered from sophomore slump. She fully redeemed herself with Bright Young Women. While it’s fiction, it gives a voice to victims in the not so fiction Ted Bundy story, and humanizes them in a way I didn’t expect. It also shows how often women are ignored and gaslight, when telling about their OWN experiences. Enraging, but insightful, this is a must read for sure.

4.5 stars rounded up. I really love these kind of genre mash up books that don't fall neatly into a category. Part true crime, part literary fiction, part psychological suspense. This was a more literary slow burn type of novel that follows two woman trying to get at the truth of their friends murders. Pamela the sorority president who was in the sorority house during the murder of two of her sisters. And Tina who is convinced the same man was involved in her friend's Ruth disappearance across the country.

Pulled from the headlines and history of Ted Bundy this novel concentrates not on the "defendant" but rather on the woman who's lives he ended too soon and the mystery surrounding their deaths. There is so much here that is hard to adequately put into words. This was not a fast paced thriller but due to the slow burn nature of the story telling we get a very in depth look into the lives of these complex nuanced characters.

This telling was done brilliantly and is sure to be one of my top 10 reads for the year.

This book was told in a unique way but that made me want to read more and learn the conclusion. I enjoy reading about the aftermath of crime and how the main characters dealt with what happened and how they move on. I liked both characters and love the sorority thriller aspect.

*Thank you NetGalley and Simon Element, S&S/ Marysue Rucci Books for giving me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed this chilling and haunting story about the true events of a serial killer in which the author focused on the victims instead of the killer, even calling him “the Defendant” rather than by his name. Rightfully so! The story was told using a dual timeline and by multiple POVs. A page turner about two women whose lives intersect by the acts of a depraved killer that set out to seek justice.

“…I’d been exactly who and where I needed to be, that I was the only person on the face of the earth who could have sent Denise’s killer to the electric chair.”