The Collective

A Novel

By: Alison Gaylin

Narrated by: Vivienne Leheny

"Chilling...this terrific novel is...propelled by an iron-tight plot that becomes increasingly tense." --New York Times Book Review

"It’s a nerve-shredding, emotionally harrowing ride. Don’t miss it.” —Megan Abbott, New York Times bestselling author

The USA Today bestselling and Edgar Award–winning author of Never Look Back and If I Die Tonight asks how far a grieving mother will go to right a tragic wrong in this propulsive novel of psychological suspense.

Camille Gardener is a grieving—and angry—mother who, five years after her daughter’s death, is still obsessed with the privileged young man she believes to be responsible.

When her rash actions draw the attention of a secret group of women—the collective— Camille is drawn into a dark web where these mothers share their wildly different stories of loss as well as their desire for justice in a world where privilege denies accountability. Fueled by mutual rage, the collective members devise and act out retribution fantasies via precise, anonymous, highly coordinated revenge killings.

As Camille struggles to comprehend whether this is a role-playing exercise or terrifying reality, she must decide if these women are truly avenging angels or monsters. Becoming more deeply enmeshed in the group, Camille learns truths about the collective—and about herself—that she may not be able to survive

Outstanding!

The best book I've read this year. Can't wait for Alison's next one. The narrative really brought the story to life.

Quick read

Enjoyed this book very much! Great narration and great pacing!! Not really a twist of an ending but still somewhat of a surprise

Meh…

This book was another suggestion from the reader of TikTok. It was ok from the beginning and got interesting midway. Then flat line at the last two hours of the book. I finished it in three days not that it’s a good thing. It was a bit annoying after 6 hours into it. Disappointed that it went that direction. I thought about all the way it could of play out but no where except the obvious. Pretty disappointing and what a waste of a great idea for a book.

Not horrible

Could not get behind the main character. Somewhat predictable storyline. Didn’t hate it but would not recommend.

I was hooked!

Loved everything about this. The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat!