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High Season
Never speak of that summer.
On a beautiful summer’s night twenty years ago, troubled seventeen-year-old Tamara Drayton was found floating face-down in the pool of her family’s idyllic mansion in the south of France, leaving her twin brother, golden-boy Blake, to pick up the pieces of their shattered family.
Also left behind was their sister Nina who, at six years old, became the youngest person ever to testify in a French murder trial. Because she’s the only one who saw what happened—who watched as her babysitter, Josie Jackson, pushed Tamara under the water, and held her there until she stopped breathing.
Didn’t she? Twenty years later, Nina's memories have faded, leaving her with no idea of what really transpired that night. When a new true crime documentary about her sister’s murder is announced, Nina thinks this might be her chance to finally find out.
But the truth always comes at a cost. Who will pay the price?
Set over two unforgettable summers two decades apart, High Season is a dark, tense exploration of the nature of memory, the enduring power of truth, and all the gray areas in between.
On a beautiful summer’s night twenty years ago, troubled seventeen-year-old Tamara Drayton was found floating face-down in the pool of her family’s idyllic mansion in the south of France, leaving her twin brother, golden-boy Blake, to pick up the pieces of their shattered family.
Also left behind was their sister Nina who, at six years old, became the youngest person ever to testify in a French murder trial. Because she’s the only one who saw what happened—who watched as her babysitter, Josie Jackson, pushed Tamara under the water, and held her there until she stopped breathing.
Didn’t she? Twenty years later, Nina's memories have faded, leaving her with no idea of what really transpired that night. When a new true crime documentary about her sister’s murder is announced, Nina thinks this might be her chance to finally find out.
But the truth always comes at a cost. Who will pay the price?
Set over two unforgettable summers two decades apart, High Season is a dark, tense exploration of the nature of memory, the enduring power of truth, and all the gray areas in between.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published August 12, 2025
311 people are currently reading
48947 people want to read
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August 12, 2025
Talk about a book that demands to be talked about. High Season is a fantastic book for book clubs as there are so many points to ponder, talk about, and absorb. Twenty years ago, seventeen-year-old Tamara Drayton was found dead in the pool at her family's mansion in the south of France. Her family, including her twin brother, Blake are devastated. Her six years old, sister, Nina was an eye witness and became the youngest person to testify in a French murder trial. Nina reported that it was her babysitter, Josie, who pushed her sister, Tamara into the water!
But memory can be a tricky thing. Now, Nina is an adult and she has vague memories of that time. She isn't quite sure what really happened the night her older sister, Tamara was found floating in their family's home. With a true crime documentary being made about her sister's murder, Nina is finally ready to take a look back at the past ...
High Season takes a look at family dynamics, memory, power, social class, relationships, and everything in between. Can a traumatized child's memory be trusted? how reliable is their testimony? How much does a small child understand about what they saw or does one's mind come up with solutions???? Was it real, what is the truth, what really happened?????
This book is told in two timelines and provides readers glimpses into all of the characters in both times. We see how they grew, how they changed, how the past affected their present lives. Readers get the POV"s of Nina, Josie, Tamara, and Josie friend, Hannah.
I found this book to be gripping, thought provoking, shocking, and evoking of emotion. I did not see the big reveal coming and loved the shock value of that reveal. I also enjoyed the many twists and turns as well. This is an exploration of memory, the truth, and tragedy.
Wonderfully written, gripping, thought provoking, and hard to put down!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
But memory can be a tricky thing. Now, Nina is an adult and she has vague memories of that time. She isn't quite sure what really happened the night her older sister, Tamara was found floating in their family's home. With a true crime documentary being made about her sister's murder, Nina is finally ready to take a look back at the past ...
High Season takes a look at family dynamics, memory, power, social class, relationships, and everything in between. Can a traumatized child's memory be trusted? how reliable is their testimony? How much does a small child understand about what they saw or does one's mind come up with solutions???? Was it real, what is the truth, what really happened?????
This book is told in two timelines and provides readers glimpses into all of the characters in both times. We see how they grew, how they changed, how the past affected their present lives. Readers get the POV"s of Nina, Josie, Tamara, and Josie friend, Hannah.
I found this book to be gripping, thought provoking, shocking, and evoking of emotion. I did not see the big reveal coming and loved the shock value of that reveal. I also enjoyed the many twists and turns as well. This is an exploration of memory, the truth, and tragedy.
Wonderfully written, gripping, thought provoking, and hard to put down!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
December 22, 2024
4.5 rounded up
The summer of 2004, The High Season, leaves many lives shattered when 17-year-old Tamara Drayton is found floating face down in the pool of her family mansion on the Côte d’Azur. Her six year old sister , Nina, becomes the key witness in the murder trial in France at which her babysitter Josie Jackson is convicted. What exactly did Nina see, never mind questions about how reliable the evidence of a six-year-old can be?? Twenty years on, all those involved live with the legacy of that night, some can party on, others are tortured by it or riddled with guilt. Can the truth finally emerge when a new documentary programme explores the notorious case?
As avid readers, you’ll understand that feeling when you just know you’re going to enjoy a book right from the start. That’s how I feel about High Season as Katie Bishop nails the follow-up to her successful debut ‘The Girls of Summer’. The different narratives and dual timelines work really well, allowing you to grow in understanding especially of the central characters and makes my mind work overtime trying to figure out the truth of THAT night, I don’t incidentally! The author drops little bombs into the storyline which makes me sit up very straight often with a sharp inhale of breath.
So, what is so good? Everything really! The plot explores so many things as well as the obvious one centring around Nina such as the true crime community, dynamics of family and friendship, those with wealth and potential power versus those who haven’t and so on.
The south of France location really is Location, Location, Location via Nina’s mother Evelyn’s somewhat jaded pink villa by 2024 though its former glory of 2004 is easy to see. The heat of 2004 which I clearly remember as coincidentally I’m in the south of France and it sure was a hot one, adds to the intensity as there seems to be no escape from it and it mirrors the increasing temperatures between the various characters.
The lifestyle, lifestyle, lifestyle of the high season looking at how the other half lives, the notoriety of Evelyn, the glamour, the romances, the gossip, the self-destruction, the death of Tamara all leads to atmosphere in abundance.
The characterisation is excellent, they’re all well portrayed from Tamara to Nina to Josie and so on what emerges is not a simple tale, the tension between them with the addition of teenage angst and being outsiders, the dysfunction and the dynamics are all fascinating. If you add in the true crime angle, you definitely have trouble in paradise. Some scenes are so intense they take my breath away and the ending is very good and moving.
Overall, this is a terrific follow-up and one I can highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK., Transworld, for the much appreciated arc return for an honest review.
The summer of 2004, The High Season, leaves many lives shattered when 17-year-old Tamara Drayton is found floating face down in the pool of her family mansion on the Côte d’Azur. Her six year old sister , Nina, becomes the key witness in the murder trial in France at which her babysitter Josie Jackson is convicted. What exactly did Nina see, never mind questions about how reliable the evidence of a six-year-old can be?? Twenty years on, all those involved live with the legacy of that night, some can party on, others are tortured by it or riddled with guilt. Can the truth finally emerge when a new documentary programme explores the notorious case?
As avid readers, you’ll understand that feeling when you just know you’re going to enjoy a book right from the start. That’s how I feel about High Season as Katie Bishop nails the follow-up to her successful debut ‘The Girls of Summer’. The different narratives and dual timelines work really well, allowing you to grow in understanding especially of the central characters and makes my mind work overtime trying to figure out the truth of THAT night, I don’t incidentally! The author drops little bombs into the storyline which makes me sit up very straight often with a sharp inhale of breath.
So, what is so good? Everything really! The plot explores so many things as well as the obvious one centring around Nina such as the true crime community, dynamics of family and friendship, those with wealth and potential power versus those who haven’t and so on.
The south of France location really is Location, Location, Location via Nina’s mother Evelyn’s somewhat jaded pink villa by 2024 though its former glory of 2004 is easy to see. The heat of 2004 which I clearly remember as coincidentally I’m in the south of France and it sure was a hot one, adds to the intensity as there seems to be no escape from it and it mirrors the increasing temperatures between the various characters.
The lifestyle, lifestyle, lifestyle of the high season looking at how the other half lives, the notoriety of Evelyn, the glamour, the romances, the gossip, the self-destruction, the death of Tamara all leads to atmosphere in abundance.
The characterisation is excellent, they’re all well portrayed from Tamara to Nina to Josie and so on what emerges is not a simple tale, the tension between them with the addition of teenage angst and being outsiders, the dysfunction and the dynamics are all fascinating. If you add in the true crime angle, you definitely have trouble in paradise. Some scenes are so intense they take my breath away and the ending is very good and moving.
Overall, this is a terrific follow-up and one I can highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK., Transworld, for the much appreciated arc return for an honest review.
December 14, 2024
This was a book that I was hesitant to read, because going by the synopsis it seems this book has been done many times before. However, this book was different and so much better than the others before it. The writing was stellar, I loved the characters current development and backstories, and the settings were described perfectly. But… the one problem I did end up having with this book was that it ended up being too lengthy.
This story starts off with Nina Drayton, who goes back to the south of France to her childhood home where her older sister Tamara was killed. Nina was only five years old at the time of the murder, and she decides to go back home to relive that day to see if her memories were right. Nina has struggled her whole life after her sister’s death, relied on several different medications to get through a day- never quite sure of herself. Nina now works as a child psychologist, and her mother and brother are not very happy about her new choice in life.
Josie Jackson is the girl who spent ten years in prison for the death of Nina’s sister, Tamara Drayton. Since being released from prison she has never found any stability in her life, and cannot go back to her hometown since she is shunned there. But was Josie really guilty of Tamara’s murder?
It isn’t until Imogen Faye, a true crime TikTokker reopens the case of Tamara Drayton that new evidence comes to light.
This book goes back and forth between 2004 and 2024, and you get a clear picture of all the characters lives. I was especially fond of Nina’s character, and I would have liked to have read more about her in this book.
This book was divided into Four Parts, and I will say that I really loved the first two parts- and then parts Three and Four seemed to drag on. I do feel that’s when the book started to get a bit too lengthy, and fill with unnecessary drama and details. However, I did mostly enjoy this book and I do plan on reading more from this author in the future.
(3.5 stars)
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure of reading. Publication date: August 12, 2025
Genre~ General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers, New Adult
This story starts off with Nina Drayton, who goes back to the south of France to her childhood home where her older sister Tamara was killed. Nina was only five years old at the time of the murder, and she decides to go back home to relive that day to see if her memories were right. Nina has struggled her whole life after her sister’s death, relied on several different medications to get through a day- never quite sure of herself. Nina now works as a child psychologist, and her mother and brother are not very happy about her new choice in life.
Josie Jackson is the girl who spent ten years in prison for the death of Nina’s sister, Tamara Drayton. Since being released from prison she has never found any stability in her life, and cannot go back to her hometown since she is shunned there. But was Josie really guilty of Tamara’s murder?
It isn’t until Imogen Faye, a true crime TikTokker reopens the case of Tamara Drayton that new evidence comes to light.
This book goes back and forth between 2004 and 2024, and you get a clear picture of all the characters lives. I was especially fond of Nina’s character, and I would have liked to have read more about her in this book.
This book was divided into Four Parts, and I will say that I really loved the first two parts- and then parts Three and Four seemed to drag on. I do feel that’s when the book started to get a bit too lengthy, and fill with unnecessary drama and details. However, I did mostly enjoy this book and I do plan on reading more from this author in the future.
(3.5 stars)
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure of reading. Publication date: August 12, 2025
Genre~ General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers, New Adult
August 12, 2025
Happy release day to this wonderful book! This would be a perfect mystery for you to check out for fall. :)
If you liked Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid or Night Swim my Megan Goldin you will probably like this.
TikTok true crime vids? Interviews? Down to earth writing? Compelling characters? This book has pretty much everything I love in a mystery/thriller.
I honestly loved this. I love how the author says so much without fully saying it. The way that so many time crime content creators speak disrespectfully about cases, forgetting that the people and victims involved are actually real people. I was interested in the way a case blowing up can really affect the victims, and not in the best ways. Many true crime content creators want to bring light to cases and get attention to them, but is that actually helping every time?
I loved how this was written as well. The multimedia format really modernizes this kind of story, making this a digestible read for members of any generation. I will say this is very much a mystery and not so much a thriller.
I only knocked off a star due to pacing and some repetitiveness.
Definitely give this one a shot when it releases! I very much enjoyed it.
Received a complementary copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Excited to check this out!
If you liked Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid or Night Swim my Megan Goldin you will probably like this.
TikTok true crime vids? Interviews? Down to earth writing? Compelling characters? This book has pretty much everything I love in a mystery/thriller.
I honestly loved this. I love how the author says so much without fully saying it. The way that so many time crime content creators speak disrespectfully about cases, forgetting that the people and victims involved are actually real people. I was interested in the way a case blowing up can really affect the victims, and not in the best ways. Many true crime content creators want to bring light to cases and get attention to them, but is that actually helping every time?
I loved how this was written as well. The multimedia format really modernizes this kind of story, making this a digestible read for members of any generation. I will say this is very much a mystery and not so much a thriller.
I only knocked off a star due to pacing and some repetitiveness.
Definitely give this one a shot when it releases! I very much enjoyed it.
Received a complementary copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Excited to check this out!
August 18, 2025
First of all, this cover is gorgeous. Doesn’t it scream the coast of France in the summertime?
I really sailed through this book. It had all the hallmark markings of a great summer read. Told within two timelines, a sister was found murdered in 2004 and Josie, the young adult that served time for the murder is now back in her old roots in 2024, trying to reclaim her life after prison.
Meanwhile, the main witness of the murder was an impressionable 5 year old sister, Nina.
Nina, whom is now grown, is questioning what exactly she saw that night that her older sister died. How accurate were her memories? Fueled by alcohol, sex and drugs, all the teenagers have hazy memories of that night. (The adults were no better.)
The true crime fanatics are reporting from the anniversary and digging up old bones. Just a fun summer read that is entertaining and well worth the time. I just finished, These Summer Storms, and I have to say I found this one more enjoyable if you are looking for something to gauge it against.
4.25 stars ⭐️
I really sailed through this book. It had all the hallmark markings of a great summer read. Told within two timelines, a sister was found murdered in 2004 and Josie, the young adult that served time for the murder is now back in her old roots in 2024, trying to reclaim her life after prison.
Meanwhile, the main witness of the murder was an impressionable 5 year old sister, Nina.
Nina, whom is now grown, is questioning what exactly she saw that night that her older sister died. How accurate were her memories? Fueled by alcohol, sex and drugs, all the teenagers have hazy memories of that night. (The adults were no better.)
The true crime fanatics are reporting from the anniversary and digging up old bones. Just a fun summer read that is entertaining and well worth the time. I just finished, These Summer Storms, and I have to say I found this one more enjoyable if you are looking for something to gauge it against.
4.25 stars ⭐️
August 14, 2025
Twenty years ago 17-year-old Tamara Drayton was found floating face-down in the pool of her family’s idyllic mansion in the south of France, leaving behind her twin brother Blake and their sister Nina who, at 5 years old, became the youngest person ever to testify in a French murder trial. Twenty years later, Nina's memories have faded, leaving her with no idea of what really transpired that night. When a new true crime documentary about her sister’s murder is announced, Nina thinks this might be her chance to finally find out.
Even though I keep saying I'm done with 20-year-old murder investigations, I grabbed the opportunity to read High Season prior to publication. When the story started out I thought I was going to love it, especially after reading descriptions of the Cote d’Azur and knowing that I do love to read about rich people drama. The story takes place over two timelines - 2004 and 2024 - and, although the book is well written with many interesting characters, it was too slow for my liking until nearly 75% when the action suddenly picks up and we're treated to many angles on what actually happened 20 years ago. Possibly there are too many characters because I kept forgetting who one or the other of them was. All the loose ends were tied up at the end perhaps a little too neatly. I'd still recommend this read even though I'm a bit of an outlier on my rating.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, via Netgalley, for inviting me to read an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. This review will be published on Goodreads on August 13, 2025 and on amazon.ca on or after August 13, 2025.
Publication Date: August 12, 2025
Even though I keep saying I'm done with 20-year-old murder investigations, I grabbed the opportunity to read High Season prior to publication. When the story started out I thought I was going to love it, especially after reading descriptions of the Cote d’Azur and knowing that I do love to read about rich people drama. The story takes place over two timelines - 2004 and 2024 - and, although the book is well written with many interesting characters, it was too slow for my liking until nearly 75% when the action suddenly picks up and we're treated to many angles on what actually happened 20 years ago. Possibly there are too many characters because I kept forgetting who one or the other of them was. All the loose ends were tied up at the end perhaps a little too neatly. I'd still recommend this read even though I'm a bit of an outlier on my rating.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, via Netgalley, for inviting me to read an advance copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. This review will be published on Goodreads on August 13, 2025 and on amazon.ca on or after August 13, 2025.
Publication Date: August 12, 2025
August 12, 2025
Mediocre mystery.
I had high expectations for this one, but sadly it didn’t make a lasting impression on me.
Twenty years ago, seventeen-year-old Tamara Dayton was found dead in the family’s pool in France. Only one person may have seen what happened, her five-year-old sister Nina. Nina testifies in the murder trial of her babysitter Josie Jackson that she saw her push her sister under water and hold her there until she stopped breathing. Twenty years later, Nina is questioning her memory. Did Josie Jackson deserve to go to jail for ten years? Consumed with guilt, Nina returns to the family mansion to help with a documentary about the murder to figure out if she told the truth all those years ago.
The plot unfolds through the past and present timelines, exploring memory and class expectations. I didn’t really connect with any of the characters and found the explanations for their actions very weak and unsuccessful. I enjoyed the present timeline more than the past, but it heavily dwells in the life of seventeen-year-olds, which didn’t interest me as much. The ending also felt too unrealistic and I had a difficult time believing this would happen in real life.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Alix Dunmore. I enjoyed this format and do recommend it. However, I seem to be in the minority here, so please check out other reviews as well!
3/5 stars
Expected publication date: 8/12/25
Trigger warning: Sexual assault
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC of High Season in exchange for an honest review.
I had high expectations for this one, but sadly it didn’t make a lasting impression on me.
Twenty years ago, seventeen-year-old Tamara Dayton was found dead in the family’s pool in France. Only one person may have seen what happened, her five-year-old sister Nina. Nina testifies in the murder trial of her babysitter Josie Jackson that she saw her push her sister under water and hold her there until she stopped breathing. Twenty years later, Nina is questioning her memory. Did Josie Jackson deserve to go to jail for ten years? Consumed with guilt, Nina returns to the family mansion to help with a documentary about the murder to figure out if she told the truth all those years ago.
The plot unfolds through the past and present timelines, exploring memory and class expectations. I didn’t really connect with any of the characters and found the explanations for their actions very weak and unsuccessful. I enjoyed the present timeline more than the past, but it heavily dwells in the life of seventeen-year-olds, which didn’t interest me as much. The ending also felt too unrealistic and I had a difficult time believing this would happen in real life.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Alix Dunmore. I enjoyed this format and do recommend it. However, I seem to be in the minority here, so please check out other reviews as well!
3/5 stars
Expected publication date: 8/12/25
Trigger warning: Sexual assault
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC of High Season in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2024
Katie Bishop’s High Season is a captivating exploration of memory’s fragility, family secrets, and the ripple effects of trauma. Set against the lush, sun-soaked backdrop of the Côte d'Azur, the story alternates between two pivotal summers—2004, when Tamara Drayton’s tragic death shattered her privileged family, and 2024, as a true crime documentary resurfaces unanswered questions about that fateful night.
At the heart of the narrative is Nina Drayton, who, as a five-year-old, became the youngest witness in a French murder trial after claiming she saw their babysitter, Josie, drown her sister. Tamara. Decades later, Nina’s recollections blur, forcing her to confront the ghosts of her past and the layers of deception that enveloped her family. Bishop masterfully intertwines perspectives, painting a rich tapestry of characters, from Josie and her friend Hannah, to Tamara and Blake, whose golden-boy façade conceals a darker side.
The dual timelines are a triumph, building tension as they delve into themes of privilege, manipulation, and the power of perception. The story’s slow-burn pacing in the earlier chapters mirrors the oppressive heat of the French Riviera, while the present-day chapters, with their true-crime podcast vibes, feel refreshingly modern. The twists, though subtly hinted at, pack an emotional punch, especially as the narrative exposes the flawed humanity of its cast.
Bishop’s evocative prose captures both the beauty of the South of France and the stark realities of fractured relationships, creating a hauntingly atmospheric read. High Season is a deeply layered domestic thriller that will linger long after the final page, cementing Katie Bishop as a master of intricate, character-driven mysteries.
I truly enjoyed the balanced pacing and well-developed characterization, as well as how the mystery keeps you hooked until the very end, urging you to make guesses and savor the thrilling ride. Additionally, the city setting is another intriguing aspect that makes this book a must-read.
A huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this thrilling novel's arc copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
At the heart of the narrative is Nina Drayton, who, as a five-year-old, became the youngest witness in a French murder trial after claiming she saw their babysitter, Josie, drown her sister. Tamara. Decades later, Nina’s recollections blur, forcing her to confront the ghosts of her past and the layers of deception that enveloped her family. Bishop masterfully intertwines perspectives, painting a rich tapestry of characters, from Josie and her friend Hannah, to Tamara and Blake, whose golden-boy façade conceals a darker side.
The dual timelines are a triumph, building tension as they delve into themes of privilege, manipulation, and the power of perception. The story’s slow-burn pacing in the earlier chapters mirrors the oppressive heat of the French Riviera, while the present-day chapters, with their true-crime podcast vibes, feel refreshingly modern. The twists, though subtly hinted at, pack an emotional punch, especially as the narrative exposes the flawed humanity of its cast.
Bishop’s evocative prose captures both the beauty of the South of France and the stark realities of fractured relationships, creating a hauntingly atmospheric read. High Season is a deeply layered domestic thriller that will linger long after the final page, cementing Katie Bishop as a master of intricate, character-driven mysteries.
I truly enjoyed the balanced pacing and well-developed characterization, as well as how the mystery keeps you hooked until the very end, urging you to make guesses and savor the thrilling ride. Additionally, the city setting is another intriguing aspect that makes this book a must-read.
A huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this thrilling novel's arc copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
August 19, 2025
High Season
By Katie Bishop
Narrated by Alix Dunmore
How does our memory help or hinder us in our lives?
This psychological thriller is set against the beautiful but haunting backdrop of the French Riviera, unfolding over two summers, two decades apart. Six-year-old Nina witnesses a tragedy involving her seventeen-year-old sister, Tamara—something she believes was caused by their babysitter, Josie. Now, 20 years later, a true-crime documentary forces Nina to question everything she thought she remembered. How reliable is a child’s memory? How reliable is any memory, decades later?
High Season is a dark and intense exploration of how memory works, why truth matters, and the murky space in between.
This was my first read by Katie Bishop, and I was drawn in by her lyrical, descriptive prose. The story takes a slow-burn approach, gradually building tension as the layers of truth are peeled back. The characters are well developed and feel real and relatable, flaws and all. Bishop does a great job showing how past experiences shape present actions.
The novel delves into complex themes like memory, trauma, and identity.
The narrator did a fine job of capturing the essence and emotion of the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
By Katie Bishop
Narrated by Alix Dunmore
How does our memory help or hinder us in our lives?
This psychological thriller is set against the beautiful but haunting backdrop of the French Riviera, unfolding over two summers, two decades apart. Six-year-old Nina witnesses a tragedy involving her seventeen-year-old sister, Tamara—something she believes was caused by their babysitter, Josie. Now, 20 years later, a true-crime documentary forces Nina to question everything she thought she remembered. How reliable is a child’s memory? How reliable is any memory, decades later?
High Season is a dark and intense exploration of how memory works, why truth matters, and the murky space in between.
This was my first read by Katie Bishop, and I was drawn in by her lyrical, descriptive prose. The story takes a slow-burn approach, gradually building tension as the layers of truth are peeled back. The characters are well developed and feel real and relatable, flaws and all. Bishop does a great job showing how past experiences shape present actions.
The novel delves into complex themes like memory, trauma, and identity.
The narrator did a fine job of capturing the essence and emotion of the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio
August 17, 2025
I came to this on the back of Bishop's The Girls of Summer which I loved and which had real substance to it. This second book plays in some of the same spaces of 17-year old girls, naivety and complicity but it is far less convincing and, in places, becomes sensationalist and melodramatic.
It's a shame as Bishop can write: her evocation of the pink house, for example, has ominous vibes together with the passages between the walls - but then the text doesn't make anything of the house as a setting.
I kept forgetting this is set in the south of France, it feels like Cornwall. And the mysterious death in a swimming pool is a cliched scene, even if Bishop does something interesting with the child witness.
But overall this feels messy: the two timelines, the multiple points of view, the TikTok true crime podcast that adds nothing substantial, the unbelievability of a 10 year prison sentence on the back of a 5-year old's testimony, the neat ending and forgiveness all round - this worked well enough as a holiday read in the sun but feels forgettable.
I'd try Bishop again though on the back of her first book as her potential promises good things.
It's a shame as Bishop can write: her evocation of the pink house, for example, has ominous vibes together with the passages between the walls - but then the text doesn't make anything of the house as a setting.
I kept forgetting this is set in the south of France, it feels like Cornwall. And the mysterious death in a swimming pool is a cliched scene, even if Bishop does something interesting with the child witness.
But overall this feels messy: the two timelines, the multiple points of view, the TikTok true crime podcast that adds nothing substantial, the unbelievability of a 10 year prison sentence on the back of a 5-year old's testimony, the neat ending and forgiveness all round - this worked well enough as a holiday read in the sun but feels forgettable.
I'd try Bishop again though on the back of her first book as her potential promises good things.
August 9, 2025
I really enjoyed this! I have enjoyed this author’s writing so much and I will absolutely pick up another of her books if she writes more. I love the ways her stories unfold. I wasn’t able to predict what the outcome was and I really enjoyed the characters, flaws and all.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free early copy to read and review!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free early copy to read and review!
May 12, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Aug. 12, 2025
I loved Katie Bishop’s red-hot escapist, vacation getaway novel, “The Girls of Summer” and, just in time for summer 2025, her new novel, “High Season” delivers another glorious summertime scandal among the rich and (in)famous.
In 2005, the rich and powerful Drayton family were spending their summer at their palatial estate in the South of France. Tamara, her twin brother Blake, their young sister Nina along with their mother, the ubiquitous Evelyn and her fourth husband, Harrison. That summer was also the summer that Tamara Drayton drowned in the family’s pool. Five-year-old Nina was the only witness, and she stated that Tamara had been pushed into the pool by her babysitter, local townie Josie Jackson. Twenty years later, Josie is out of prison and Nina is still haunted by the memories of that day. When a local true crime podcaster reaches out, wanting to bring their story into the limelight once again, Tamara and Nina come face-to-face with their memories of what happened, or didn’t happen, that summer.
“High Season” is a multiple-viewpoint, dual-timeline novel, with each chapter rotating between Nina, Tamara, Josie and Hannah (Josie’s best friend from that time), both in the current year and twenty years ago, when the accident happened. Although it seems like a complicated format to keep track of, Bishop easily flows from one protagonist to the other, keeping the plot moving seamlessly from one suspenseful twist to another.
Bishop’s writing is delectable, and I love how she chooses exotic locations for her novels. From Greece (in “Girls”) to Cote d’Azur in France (in “Season”), I appreciated the sandy beaches, azure blue water and stick sweet temperatures that complimented the gripping plot.
The mystery in “Season” focuses on the death of Tamara Drayton. Was it an accident? Was Nina’s memory, at five years old, accurate enough to still be believed twenty years later, even when she doubts it herself? Throughout the entirety, I was devouring the novel for clues, determined to figure out what happened to the lonely, seventeen-year-old outcast and although I had my speculations, I was unable to predict what really happened. Bishop crafted an ending where everything came together and revenge was served.
I look forward to seeing where Bishop takes readers next (geographically as well), but one thing is for sure, I will no doubt be reading her next novel and I have no doubt I will love it as much as I have her previous two.
Expected publication date: Aug. 12, 2025
I loved Katie Bishop’s red-hot escapist, vacation getaway novel, “The Girls of Summer” and, just in time for summer 2025, her new novel, “High Season” delivers another glorious summertime scandal among the rich and (in)famous.
In 2005, the rich and powerful Drayton family were spending their summer at their palatial estate in the South of France. Tamara, her twin brother Blake, their young sister Nina along with their mother, the ubiquitous Evelyn and her fourth husband, Harrison. That summer was also the summer that Tamara Drayton drowned in the family’s pool. Five-year-old Nina was the only witness, and she stated that Tamara had been pushed into the pool by her babysitter, local townie Josie Jackson. Twenty years later, Josie is out of prison and Nina is still haunted by the memories of that day. When a local true crime podcaster reaches out, wanting to bring their story into the limelight once again, Tamara and Nina come face-to-face with their memories of what happened, or didn’t happen, that summer.
“High Season” is a multiple-viewpoint, dual-timeline novel, with each chapter rotating between Nina, Tamara, Josie and Hannah (Josie’s best friend from that time), both in the current year and twenty years ago, when the accident happened. Although it seems like a complicated format to keep track of, Bishop easily flows from one protagonist to the other, keeping the plot moving seamlessly from one suspenseful twist to another.
Bishop’s writing is delectable, and I love how she chooses exotic locations for her novels. From Greece (in “Girls”) to Cote d’Azur in France (in “Season”), I appreciated the sandy beaches, azure blue water and stick sweet temperatures that complimented the gripping plot.
The mystery in “Season” focuses on the death of Tamara Drayton. Was it an accident? Was Nina’s memory, at five years old, accurate enough to still be believed twenty years later, even when she doubts it herself? Throughout the entirety, I was devouring the novel for clues, determined to figure out what happened to the lonely, seventeen-year-old outcast and although I had my speculations, I was unable to predict what really happened. Bishop crafted an ending where everything came together and revenge was served.
I look forward to seeing where Bishop takes readers next (geographically as well), but one thing is for sure, I will no doubt be reading her next novel and I have no doubt I will love it as much as I have her previous two.
March 13, 2025
Loved, loved, loved this one.
High Season tells the story of the death of Tamara Drayton, the daughter of socialite Evelyn Drayton. When Tamara is found dead in a pool during a party, occasional babysitter Josie is found guilty of the murder - largely based on the evidence of 5-year old Nina, the youngest person to give evidence at a trial.
20 years later, the death is brought back into the public imagination through a podcast which casts doubt on Josie's death. With Nina unable to remember much about the fateful day, what did she really see that day and was Josie actually innocent?
Firstly, I know what you're thinking. Cold or historic crime, podcaster casting doubts on conviction, true crime community become interested. Haven't I read this before? I sort of agree. I think there are so many books with this trope however this one is so expertly written I would encourage everyone to read it.
It tells the story over a dual timeline, the present day and the lead up to the fateful party. The book teases away nuggets of information in both timelines which come to a dramatic conclusion.
I loved it and would recommend to all.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers | Bantam for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
High Season tells the story of the death of Tamara Drayton, the daughter of socialite Evelyn Drayton. When Tamara is found dead in a pool during a party, occasional babysitter Josie is found guilty of the murder - largely based on the evidence of 5-year old Nina, the youngest person to give evidence at a trial.
20 years later, the death is brought back into the public imagination through a podcast which casts doubt on Josie's death. With Nina unable to remember much about the fateful day, what did she really see that day and was Josie actually innocent?
Firstly, I know what you're thinking. Cold or historic crime, podcaster casting doubts on conviction, true crime community become interested. Haven't I read this before? I sort of agree. I think there are so many books with this trope however this one is so expertly written I would encourage everyone to read it.
It tells the story over a dual timeline, the present day and the lead up to the fateful party. The book teases away nuggets of information in both timelines which come to a dramatic conclusion.
I loved it and would recommend to all.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers | Bantam for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 13, 2025
I know what you did that summer... I think?
In the summer of 2004, the body of privileged seventeen-year-old Tamara Drayton was found floating in the pool of her family’s lavish French Riviera home. Her younger sister Nina’s testimony put a local girl behind bars for Tamara's murder - because Nina saw Josie push Tamara under the water… didn’t she? Two decades later, as a true crime documentary revisits the case, Nina has started to doubt her own recollections, and hopes the renewed interest will allow her to finally answer the question of what really happened that night.
While the “cold case revived by a modern true crime project” premise may sound familiar, "High Season" not only delivers but exceeds expectations, standing out among similar stories in the sub-genre. One reason is the book's stellar writing, coupled with with short, intense chapters and a perfectly executed dual timeline. Another reason are its richly drawn, flawed and complex characters, all of which added to the intrigue and the mystery. Finally, the Côte d’Azur setting, spanning two sweltering summers, provides a gorgeous backdrop for the story’s darker undercurrents, making this book the perfect summer read.
"High Season" is a well-paced, character-driven mystery with just the right dose of suspense and a satisfying conclusion. Proving the past never stays buried, especially when true crime sleuths become involved, it weaves fractured memories, tangled family loyalties, and the long shadows of trauma into a compelling whole.
The audiobook, narrated by Alix Dunmore, is highly enjoyable and a perfect match for the novel. Dunmore shifts effortlessly between time periods and characters, and her flawless narration adds an extra layer of atmosphere.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
"High Season" was first published on August 12, 2025, and is available now.
In the summer of 2004, the body of privileged seventeen-year-old Tamara Drayton was found floating in the pool of her family’s lavish French Riviera home. Her younger sister Nina’s testimony put a local girl behind bars for Tamara's murder - because Nina saw Josie push Tamara under the water… didn’t she? Two decades later, as a true crime documentary revisits the case, Nina has started to doubt her own recollections, and hopes the renewed interest will allow her to finally answer the question of what really happened that night.
While the “cold case revived by a modern true crime project” premise may sound familiar, "High Season" not only delivers but exceeds expectations, standing out among similar stories in the sub-genre. One reason is the book's stellar writing, coupled with with short, intense chapters and a perfectly executed dual timeline. Another reason are its richly drawn, flawed and complex characters, all of which added to the intrigue and the mystery. Finally, the Côte d’Azur setting, spanning two sweltering summers, provides a gorgeous backdrop for the story’s darker undercurrents, making this book the perfect summer read.
"High Season" is a well-paced, character-driven mystery with just the right dose of suspense and a satisfying conclusion. Proving the past never stays buried, especially when true crime sleuths become involved, it weaves fractured memories, tangled family loyalties, and the long shadows of trauma into a compelling whole.
The audiobook, narrated by Alix Dunmore, is highly enjoyable and a perfect match for the novel. Dunmore shifts effortlessly between time periods and characters, and her flawless narration adds an extra layer of atmosphere.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
"High Season" was first published on August 12, 2025, and is available now.
August 18, 2025
I won’t reveal too much because this one is best experienced with no expectations - just let the slow-burn mystery unfold. If you love atmospheric reads, tangled pasts, unreliable memories, and characters haunted by what they think they remember…this one’s for you.
Tamara Drayton’s death 20 years ago still casts a long shadow. Now, a true crime podcaster starts digging into what really happened, and secrets tied to guilt, privilege, and class start surfacing.
I loved the group of messy teenagers at the heart of the story - now adults, still trapped by the choices they made that summer. It’s about memory, trauma, and the weight of long-buried truths. I didn’t guess the big reveal, but looking back, the breadcrumbs were there! I was so immersed in the family and friend dynamics (read: dysfunction) that I missed them. But mystery-solvers will love the clues.
I also loved the setting - a seaside mansion on the French Riviera - feels like a character of its own. Glamorous and indulgent, but with something darker lurking just below the surface.
🎧 Narration Note: Alix Dunmore is fantastic. She perfectly captures the teens' vulnerability and the adults' guilt-ridden uncertainty. Her handling of multiple voices and accents made it super easy to follow, even with a big cast.
Final Verdict: 👍 A perfect end-of-summer read - compelling, moody, and emotionally layered. I binged it in just a couple of days, about 50/50 between print and audio. Both formats are excellent. 4.5⭐️
Tamara Drayton’s death 20 years ago still casts a long shadow. Now, a true crime podcaster starts digging into what really happened, and secrets tied to guilt, privilege, and class start surfacing.
I loved the group of messy teenagers at the heart of the story - now adults, still trapped by the choices they made that summer. It’s about memory, trauma, and the weight of long-buried truths. I didn’t guess the big reveal, but looking back, the breadcrumbs were there! I was so immersed in the family and friend dynamics (read: dysfunction) that I missed them. But mystery-solvers will love the clues.
I also loved the setting - a seaside mansion on the French Riviera - feels like a character of its own. Glamorous and indulgent, but with something darker lurking just below the surface.
🎧 Narration Note: Alix Dunmore is fantastic. She perfectly captures the teens' vulnerability and the adults' guilt-ridden uncertainty. Her handling of multiple voices and accents made it super easy to follow, even with a big cast.
Final Verdict: 👍 A perfect end-of-summer read - compelling, moody, and emotionally layered. I binged it in just a couple of days, about 50/50 between print and audio. Both formats are excellent. 4.5⭐️
August 11, 2025
High Season by Katie Bishop is a psychological thriller set over two summers, twenty years apart, on the Côte d’Azur. The story follows Nina Drayton, who, at six years old, witnessed her seventeen-year-old sister Tamara found dead in their family’s villa pool. Her witness testimony lead to the conviction of their babysitter, Josie Jackson. Two decades later, as a true crime documentary revisits the case, Nina’s faded memories and doubts prompt her to return to the villa to uncover the truth about that fateful summer, questioning whether she sent an innocent woman to prison or if the real killer remains free.
The characters in High Season are fully developed with each one crafted and relatable. I was able to connect with Nina’s struggle, Blake’s charm, and the nuanced supporting cast, making every interaction feel authentic.
The whodunit trope is masterfully executed, with surprising plot twists that kept me guessing. Backed by believable motives, it added depth to the mystery. The finale was surprising, delivering a thrilling resolution that made skipping to the last chapters irresistible. However, the pacing felt sluggish, especially around the midpoint, where the slow build led me to skip ahead to the gripping final chapters.
While the ending was fantastic, it didn’t motivate me to revisit the skipped sections. Overall, High Season earns 4 stars for its compelling characters, clever twists, and an intense conclusion. Despite the pacing hiccup, it’s a thought-provoking read about memory and truth that lingers long after the last page.
I received a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
The characters in High Season are fully developed with each one crafted and relatable. I was able to connect with Nina’s struggle, Blake’s charm, and the nuanced supporting cast, making every interaction feel authentic.
The whodunit trope is masterfully executed, with surprising plot twists that kept me guessing. Backed by believable motives, it added depth to the mystery. The finale was surprising, delivering a thrilling resolution that made skipping to the last chapters irresistible. However, the pacing felt sluggish, especially around the midpoint, where the slow build led me to skip ahead to the gripping final chapters.
While the ending was fantastic, it didn’t motivate me to revisit the skipped sections. Overall, High Season earns 4 stars for its compelling characters, clever twists, and an intense conclusion. Despite the pacing hiccup, it’s a thought-provoking read about memory and truth that lingers long after the last page.
I received a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
July 26, 2025
Many thanks to Macmillan audio for my #gifted copy.
I really had fun with HIGH SEASON. It had a great cast of character. Some of the characters you will probably like and others may surprise you. I enjoyed how it flipped back and forth from present day to 2004 when Nina was just a little girl. The pacing was good and kept me intrigued. If you're looking for a mystery/thriller to add to your summer collection. HIGH SEASON is a great choice!
I really had fun with HIGH SEASON. It had a great cast of character. Some of the characters you will probably like and others may surprise you. I enjoyed how it flipped back and forth from present day to 2004 when Nina was just a little girl. The pacing was good and kept me intrigued. If you're looking for a mystery/thriller to add to your summer collection. HIGH SEASON is a great choice!
August 20, 2025
An interesting mystery concept. The beginning and the ending are both really good. The middle is a bit slow but worth it for the ending. Fun to try to guess along the way. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
December 26, 2024
I was a big fan of Katie Bishop's debut novel so was very excited to get my hands on 'High Season' and it didn't disappoint!
I loved the way in which the story of Tamara's murder was told over two summers twenty years apart as Bishop balanced the pacing and time switches effortlessly. The way the tension built between the characters in the present but the backstory unravelled in the past flowed so well across the entirety of the novel.
The synopsis of this story feels familiar but this approach is fresh and vivid, I can really see how Bishop has progressed in style and confidence since her debut, whilst also a willingness to try and play with tone and structure. 'High Season' is the perfect summer read with layers of intrigue and a setting of high lux for this thriller. A gorgeous page turner beginning to end.
I loved the way in which the story of Tamara's murder was told over two summers twenty years apart as Bishop balanced the pacing and time switches effortlessly. The way the tension built between the characters in the present but the backstory unravelled in the past flowed so well across the entirety of the novel.
The synopsis of this story feels familiar but this approach is fresh and vivid, I can really see how Bishop has progressed in style and confidence since her debut, whilst also a willingness to try and play with tone and structure. 'High Season' is the perfect summer read with layers of intrigue and a setting of high lux for this thriller. A gorgeous page turner beginning to end.
August 18, 2025
"The High Season" by Katie Bishop transports the reader to the south of France in this multi-timeline high/low mystery. The story orbits around the death of a wealthy teenager found face-down in her family’s pool. Any witnesses you ask? Well yes, the victim's five-year-old sister, who identifies her babysitter as the killer...But did the witness get it right? Told through alternating summers, one twenty years ago and the other present day, as the tangled lives of locals and wealthy summer visitors gradually expose just how intertwined upstairs and downstairs truly were.
Reading "The High Season" feels like being on vacation along the French coast while secretly eavesdropping on the social strata. Bishop captures both sides of the divide: the jet-set crowd who descend for the summer with little regard for the locals, and the residents forced to tolerate, serve, and depend on them. It’s voyeurism, but from a sharp sociological lens: topical, biting, and hard to look away from.
I devoured every page, certain I had solved the central mystery early on. Spoiler: I hadn’t. When my theory unraveled late in the game (womp, womp), the suspense only intensified. The final act plunges headfirst into darker territory before cresting into a shocking, unforgettable conclusion.
"The High Season" is Downtown Abbey meets Amanda Knox where memory and truth are put on trial and the reader has a front row seat. Who's side are you on?
Thank you to Katie Bishop, St. Martin's Press, & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my authentic review.
Reading "The High Season" feels like being on vacation along the French coast while secretly eavesdropping on the social strata. Bishop captures both sides of the divide: the jet-set crowd who descend for the summer with little regard for the locals, and the residents forced to tolerate, serve, and depend on them. It’s voyeurism, but from a sharp sociological lens: topical, biting, and hard to look away from.
I devoured every page, certain I had solved the central mystery early on. Spoiler: I hadn’t. When my theory unraveled late in the game (womp, womp), the suspense only intensified. The final act plunges headfirst into darker territory before cresting into a shocking, unforgettable conclusion.
"The High Season" is Downtown Abbey meets Amanda Knox where memory and truth are put on trial and the reader has a front row seat. Who's side are you on?
Thank you to Katie Bishop, St. Martin's Press, & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my authentic review.
August 12, 2025
4.5 stars. Five-year-old Nina witnessed the tragic drowning of her 17 year-old sister Tamara, testifying in court their babysitter Josie had held her under. Fast forward twenty years, Josie is released from prison + a true-crime podcaster shows up for the real story by casting doubt on Josie’s guilt. Nina herself now being unsure of what she actually saw that night, seeks to find if her memory was all that or if the real murderer is still out there.
What a slow-burning suspensive tale of memory, mystery and messy family secrets.. all set against the golden sun-drenched French Riviera. Told in two timelines shifting between 2004 + 2024 with several POVs, Bishop slowly reveals pieces of the puzzle that kept me chomping at the bit to the very end. If you enjoy a domestic mystery/thriller loaded with tension, twists, a sense of unease and an immersive storyline add this one to your list. Fantastic. Pub. 8/12/25
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
What a slow-burning suspensive tale of memory, mystery and messy family secrets.. all set against the golden sun-drenched French Riviera. Told in two timelines shifting between 2004 + 2024 with several POVs, Bishop slowly reveals pieces of the puzzle that kept me chomping at the bit to the very end. If you enjoy a domestic mystery/thriller loaded with tension, twists, a sense of unease and an immersive storyline add this one to your list. Fantastic. Pub. 8/12/25
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2025
High Season completely swept me away. Katie Bishop writes with such atmosphere that I felt like I was right there—sun on my skin, salt in the air, heart tugged in a dozen directions.
What I loved most is how this book isn’t just about a summer fling or an escape; it’s about the way certain seasons of our lives leave an imprint we can never shake. The story felt tender and raw in places, like Bishop was holding up a mirror to memory, nostalgia, and the bittersweet pull of what-ifs.
It’s the kind of novel that lingers quietly, long after you close it—like the memory of a summer you wish you could relive, even knowing it changed you forever.
What I loved most is how this book isn’t just about a summer fling or an escape; it’s about the way certain seasons of our lives leave an imprint we can never shake. The story felt tender and raw in places, like Bishop was holding up a mirror to memory, nostalgia, and the bittersweet pull of what-ifs.
It’s the kind of novel that lingers quietly, long after you close it—like the memory of a summer you wish you could relive, even knowing it changed you forever.
October 2, 2024
A well-written book that features effortlessly distinguishable characters, appropriate pacing, and a clear, easy to follow storyline.
August 24, 2025
4 Stars ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Kate Bishop's second novel High Season was an amazing read from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I was hooked instantly, and extremely engaging, compelling psychological thriller. Full of depth, emotion, mystery, suspense and excellent characterization.
Set in France and England, High Season tells a story that spans 20 years, jumping between 2004 and 2024, told in four parts. Nina Drayton was 5 years old when her whole life including her families shattered. when she found the body of her 17 year old sister Tamara floating in the pool of their lovely pink house. Nina's statement lead to the conviction of her occasional babysitter Josie for Tamara's murder. 20 years later new evidence emerges from a TikTokker known as truecrimefangirl_2002 or Imagine Faye, suggesting that Josie is actually innocent and was wrongly convicted. Nina now begins to question the accuracy of her memorial, did she really see Josie push Tamara Drayton? What actually happened to her sister on that hot summer day? During that high season.
Packed with dysfunctions, family dynamics, twists and turns that will keep your eyes glued on the pages. Kate Bishop dis a brilliant job of establishment the characters and jumping between the past and the present. You get to see the key characters in this story from their early teenage years, the contrasts of the social backgrounds that characters such as Josie, Hannah, Nina, Blake and Tamara come from. The tense exploration of memory, truth, elitism, guilt, shame, forgiveness, envy, jealousy, power, control and selfishness.
Excellently written in a narrative form, with beautiful storytelling, Kate Bishop delivers a fantastic novel that explores powerful themes and touches on real world circumstances. Such as wrongful convictions, people who have spent years in prison, having to start over, after the justice system spat them out. As well as touching on topics such as the fear of bringing a child into the world, and being fearful of the kind of person they could grow up into.
High Season is a book I highly recommend reading, you simply will not be left disappointed. The story grabs you, the characters are excellently written, there is also a sense of unease after each chapter or page. You will want to find out the truth, actively seek it, page after page. If you are a fan of mystery and psychology thrillers with a good twist, then I highly recommend reading Kate Bishop's High Season.
Kate Bishop's second novel High Season was an amazing read from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I was hooked instantly, and extremely engaging, compelling psychological thriller. Full of depth, emotion, mystery, suspense and excellent characterization.
Set in France and England, High Season tells a story that spans 20 years, jumping between 2004 and 2024, told in four parts. Nina Drayton was 5 years old when her whole life including her families shattered. when she found the body of her 17 year old sister Tamara floating in the pool of their lovely pink house. Nina's statement lead to the conviction of her occasional babysitter Josie for Tamara's murder. 20 years later new evidence emerges from a TikTokker known as truecrimefangirl_2002 or Imagine Faye, suggesting that Josie is actually innocent and was wrongly convicted. Nina now begins to question the accuracy of her memorial, did she really see Josie push Tamara Drayton? What actually happened to her sister on that hot summer day? During that high season.
Packed with dysfunctions, family dynamics, twists and turns that will keep your eyes glued on the pages. Kate Bishop dis a brilliant job of establishment the characters and jumping between the past and the present. You get to see the key characters in this story from their early teenage years, the contrasts of the social backgrounds that characters such as Josie, Hannah, Nina, Blake and Tamara come from. The tense exploration of memory, truth, elitism, guilt, shame, forgiveness, envy, jealousy, power, control and selfishness.
Excellently written in a narrative form, with beautiful storytelling, Kate Bishop delivers a fantastic novel that explores powerful themes and touches on real world circumstances. Such as wrongful convictions, people who have spent years in prison, having to start over, after the justice system spat them out. As well as touching on topics such as the fear of bringing a child into the world, and being fearful of the kind of person they could grow up into.
High Season is a book I highly recommend reading, you simply will not be left disappointed. The story grabs you, the characters are excellently written, there is also a sense of unease after each chapter or page. You will want to find out the truth, actively seek it, page after page. If you are a fan of mystery and psychology thrillers with a good twist, then I highly recommend reading Kate Bishop's High Season.
August 11, 2025
I was really excited for this book because it sounded so exciting and fun - I just love reading about rich people drama, especially when there is crime involved.
About two decades ago, a body was found in the pool of a mansion in the south of France...and the only witness was only 4 or 5 years old (I cannot remember the exact age off the top of my head, sorry, but a preschooler basically).
And now, as an adult with a fully adult life, she is starting to question her memory of what really happened that night. And so she decides to help work on a documentary that is following that case.
I really thought that this sounded like such a fun and intriguing story, but I found it to fall a bit flat for me. It took me quite a while to get invested, and even then, I wasn't that invested. I think it was because of the characters. I didn't find the characters likable or that interesting, they lacked the depth that would've made me curious as to what was happening/had happened.
I think plenty of people will still like this, I know that I am the odd one out with how much depth I like in characters in mysteries or thrillers, and everyone likes rich people drama.
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
About two decades ago, a body was found in the pool of a mansion in the south of France...and the only witness was only 4 or 5 years old (I cannot remember the exact age off the top of my head, sorry, but a preschooler basically).
And now, as an adult with a fully adult life, she is starting to question her memory of what really happened that night. And so she decides to help work on a documentary that is following that case.
I really thought that this sounded like such a fun and intriguing story, but I found it to fall a bit flat for me. It took me quite a while to get invested, and even then, I wasn't that invested. I think it was because of the characters. I didn't find the characters likable or that interesting, they lacked the depth that would've made me curious as to what was happening/had happened.
I think plenty of people will still like this, I know that I am the odd one out with how much depth I like in characters in mysteries or thrillers, and everyone likes rich people drama.
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
August 24, 2025
Let's be honest: it's a little more difficult lately to tolerate books that revolve around the lifestyles of the ultra wealthy, so I was a little uncertain about picking up "High Season." Thankfully, I found that Katie Bishop delivered far more than just the usual story of rich people behaving badly. Instead, this story delivered complex characters, satisfying character growth, and genuine intrigue.
As a slow burn, it did take me a little bit to warm up to the story of Nina, who as a young woman is still trying to come to terms with the murder of her older sister decades before — and her own role in sending her babysitter to jail for the crime. Now questioning if her testimony at five years old was truly accurate, Nina teams up with a true crime documentary podcast to dig deeper into the events twenty years prior.
My only wish for this book is that there had been a handful more red herrings scattered throughout. I found myself wanting to deeply supsect many of them, and feel equally convinced that each had been guilty of the crime.
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Katie Bishop for an advance copy for honest review.
As a slow burn, it did take me a little bit to warm up to the story of Nina, who as a young woman is still trying to come to terms with the murder of her older sister decades before — and her own role in sending her babysitter to jail for the crime. Now questioning if her testimony at five years old was truly accurate, Nina teams up with a true crime documentary podcast to dig deeper into the events twenty years prior.
My only wish for this book is that there had been a handful more red herrings scattered throughout. I found myself wanting to deeply supsect many of them, and feel equally convinced that each had been guilty of the crime.
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Katie Bishop for an advance copy for honest review.
August 16, 2025
A slow burn set against the backdrop of the French Riviera.
A great cast of characters! None of which I particularly liked but I'm not sure I was supposed to, haha! The dual timelines between past and present were great. There's even a bit of mixed media thrown in there which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Overall, High Season is a great summer read.
My thanks to St. Martin's Press for this gifted copy.
A great cast of characters! None of which I particularly liked but I'm not sure I was supposed to, haha! The dual timelines between past and present were great. There's even a bit of mixed media thrown in there which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Overall, High Season is a great summer read.
My thanks to St. Martin's Press for this gifted copy.
August 26, 2025
Decent, just entirely too slow..
September 5, 2025
DNF-it wasn't really bad, it was just very slow and hard to get into. I think if this story was condensed, and there was less meaningless description it could have been much better!
August 2, 2025
Not the story I expected or hoped for. I went into High Season expecting a tightly wound psychological thriller, but this felt more like a drawn-out internal character study. While I appreciate emotional depth, the pacing here was just too slow — most of the book was spent circling the same thoughts, the same memories, without much actual movement.
Rachel’s reflections became repetitive quickly, and even though I understood what the author was going for-exploring trauma, memory, and denial-it started to feel like I was reading the same page over and over. I found myself wanting the story to push forward, but it never really did.
The dual timelines didn’t help either. The past and present weren’t always clearly separated, and the structure felt choppy. I kept waiting for something to shift, for a turning point or emotional breakthrough, but it all stayed kind of flat for me.
And honestly, this just wasn’t a thriller. At least not in the way it was marketed. There’s no real suspense, twist, or urgency. It’s very introspective, which some readers will love, but I was expecting something with more narrative tension and less emotional looping. It had the potential to be powerful, but for me, the execution just didn’t land.
Although this book wasn’t for me, I am grateful to Net Galley and Macmillan Audio for gifting me an advance audiobook in return for my honest review.
Rachel’s reflections became repetitive quickly, and even though I understood what the author was going for-exploring trauma, memory, and denial-it started to feel like I was reading the same page over and over. I found myself wanting the story to push forward, but it never really did.
The dual timelines didn’t help either. The past and present weren’t always clearly separated, and the structure felt choppy. I kept waiting for something to shift, for a turning point or emotional breakthrough, but it all stayed kind of flat for me.
And honestly, this just wasn’t a thriller. At least not in the way it was marketed. There’s no real suspense, twist, or urgency. It’s very introspective, which some readers will love, but I was expecting something with more narrative tension and less emotional looping. It had the potential to be powerful, but for me, the execution just didn’t land.
Although this book wasn’t for me, I am grateful to Net Galley and Macmillan Audio for gifting me an advance audiobook in return for my honest review.
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