The Divide somehow magically contains every element I love in a thriller:
- An usual premise
- A fascinating protagonist who, despite not being a detective, slowly unravels a mystery
- Great supporting characters
- An atmospheric setting
- Endless twists leading to an unexpected ending
- A lasting emotional resonance that isn't just connected to the mystery, but the story itself.

Many thrillers aren't as good as their marketing blurb. This one far, far exceeded it. Jenny's story was so intriguing and I love how she used her skillset at different points. Even the climactic scenes in the book were unpredictable. I don't know what else to say other than I utterly loved this book and I'm so sad I finished it.

Morgan Richter crafts a compelling, slow-burn neo-noir set in the backdrop of Los Angeles - who I'd argue is co-star to this tale.

Jenny St John, a nearly destitute fake psychic ... sorry 'intuitive counsellor' becomes embroiled in a murder investigation involving Serge, her ex-lover and director of The Divide, her first and only film. To her shock his missing ex-wife Gena, could be her doppelgänger and claims to have starred in The Divide. Jenny finds herself enmeshed in Gena and Serge's social circle, trying to find Gena and whoever murdered Serge.

This was neo-noir in the best way. Though at times I sometimes found it a teensy bit too slow, it was well written with strong characters and plot development. I loved Jenny and hoped her luck turn would around. She was relatable and self-aware about her motivations for getting involved. The case forced her to start dealing with unresolved grief over her failed career and a violent attack as a teenager. For her, Gena being a successful artist represented the life that Jenny wished she had. I got to the end of The Divide and was immediately greedy for knowing what happens next for Jenny St John. I could easily see this as a series of books and as a TV series. I really hope this happens. Either way Morgan Richter is now an auto-buy.

Thanks to Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor, Knopf and NetGalley for the ARC.

I really enjoyed this! I couldn’t put it down and loved every second of it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC.