Book Release Calendar » The Storm by Rachel Hawkins

St. Medard’s Bay, Alabama is known for three unforgettable things: the hurricanes that tear through town, the historic Rosalie Inn that has survived every storm for over a century, and the scandal of a local girl, Lo Bailey, who was accused of murdering her wealthy lover, Landon Fitzroy, during Hurricane Marie in 1984.

Landon was 30 years old, a lawyer, and the son of the Governor. He was also from a prominent family and his death made Lo Bailey infamous. She was tried in court but not convicted (it ended in a hung jury). But in the court of public opinion however, many viewed Lo Bailey as guilty of killing her married lover and trying to cover up the incident with the hurricane.

Now, decades later, Geneva Corliss is doing her best to keep the Rosalie Inn afloat as its current owner. When she hears a true crime writer is coming to town to investigate the famous case, Geneva sees an opportunity. A bestselling book could bring attention, tourists, and much-needed money to the inn. But Geneva is caught off guard when the writer, August Fletcher, arrives with the accused, Lo Bailey herself.

Lo claims she’s returned to finally clear her name and reveal what truly happened the night Landon died. Yet as Geneva grows closer to Lo and August, unease begins to settle in. Lo may want justice, but Geneva can’t shake the feeling that she also wants revenge.

As the summer grows hotter and a new hurricane starts building in the Gulf, tensions rise throughout the town. Old wounds reopen, secrets begin to surface, and Geneva realizes that the people of St. Medard’s Bay can be just as dangerous as any storm.

Age Recommendation: Adult (18+)
The Storm by Rachel Hawkins is an adult thriller, so it’s best for adult readers (18+) (not YA).