The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water

(From Goodreads)

When Kendra Brennan moves into her grandfather’s old cabin on Hidden Lake, she has a problem and a plan. The problem? An inflammatory letter from A Very Disappointed Reader that’s keeping her from writing her next novel as long as its claims go unanswered. The plan? To confront Tyler, her childhood best friend’s brother–and the man who inspired the antagonist in her first book–in order to prove to herself that she told the truth as all good novelists should.

What she discovers as she delves into the murky past is not what she expected. Facing Tyler isn’t easy, but facing the truth of her failed friendship with his sister, Cami, may be the hardest thing she’s ever had to do.

This novel had many high points for me. Bartels’ writing, as always, is engaging and enjoyable to read. Her style in The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water has an almost lyrical quality, adding to the haunting and emotive atmosphere of Kendra’s story. The first-person perspective and “letter to a friend” format takes you right to the emotional heart of the main character’s struggles and journey. I also found Kendra to be a unique protagonist, and as a creative myself, I could relate to her challenges — as well as the frustration created by the “Very Disappointed Reader” letter.

Although not a typical mystery novel, this book includes many surprises and the revelation of several secrets as it moves between past and present. I was intrigued by the slow unveiling of past events and the way informed character actions in the present. I also appreciated Kendra’s growth through the story, as she came to realize she was not the only one negatively impacted by past events.

The Girl Who Could Breathe Under Water does have some outcomes that lean positive, it definitely covers some difficult topics and situations that become darker as the novel goes on. The topic of sexual assault, which is central to the novel, was unexpected based on the book description — and I think many readers might have appreciated some warning for that. Although the novel highlights real topics deserving of discussion, some of the descriptions of events were more detailed than I felt necessary for clarity on what was happening.

I also found Kendra’s story to be lacking the light of hope that it truly needed — which comes through faith in Jesus Christ.  seemingly replacing it with a romance that was sweet, but also had its questionable aspects. I was disappointed that this was only mentioned in the author’s letter at the end, rather than being part of Kendra’s journey.