Review: The Whole Golden World by Kristina Riggle

 

An astonishing novel from the acclaimed author of Keepsake that pushes the boundaries of storytelling. At turns shocking, provocative, and heart-wrenching, and inspired by a true story The Whole Golden World forces us to ask the question "How well do we really know our children?"

To the outside Dinah and Joe have a perfect family-three lovely children, a beautiful home, and a café that's finally taking off. But their world is rocked when it's discovered that their oldest daughter, 17-year-old Morgan is having an affair with her married teacher, TJ Hill.

Their town rocks with the scandal. When the case goes to trial, the family is torn further apart when Morgan sides not with her parents-as a manipulated teenage girl; but with TJ himself-as a woman who loves a 30-year-old man.

Told from the perspectives of Morgan, Dinah, and TJ's wife, Rain, this is an unforgettable story that fully explores the surprising, even shocking, events that change the lives of two families.

Riggle writes stories that evoke a reaction.  Affairs between students and teachers happen.  Riggle brings to light the characters behind these situations...their voices, their thoughts and their circumstances.  She writes in a way that pulls you in...with truth, great voices and an intriguing story line.  Sometimes the best reads are those that take us out of our comfort zones and push us into the reality of the world around us!  The Whole Golden World will do that and so much more... 4 stars!