I knew going in that Notes on a Drowning was going to pack a punch. Having read Anna Sharpe’s historical fiction (written as Anna Mazzola), I expected strong storytelling, but wow – this debut thriller was something else entirely. Part legal drama, part political conspiracy, and all heart-stopping suspense, this book had me hooked from page one.
What I Loved
- Powerful Themes with Real Emotional Weight: At its core, this book isn’t just about solving a suspicious death; it’s about justice, grief, and fighting for those without a voice. Alex, a solicitor who can’t resist a pro-bono case (even if it risks her job), takes on the mystery surrounding Natalia’s tragic death in the Thames. Meanwhile, Kat, a high-flying advisor to the Home Secretary, uncovers disturbing information that ties back to Natalia. Both women are drawn into a web of corruption that feels all too believable. Sharpe taps into societal issues like abuse of power and exploitation of women, grounding her thriller in harsh realities.
- Complex Characters with History and Depth: I adored Alex and Kat. Alex is fiery, relentless, and clearly haunted by her sister’s disappearance years earlier. Kat, on the other hand, is cool-headed yet burdened by her own regrets. Their uneasy alliance added layers of tension to the plot. The fact that they shared a complicated past only intensified their differences, both women share a core determination to do the right thing even when it puts them in real danger.
- A Pacy, Twisty Plot with Real Stakes: The book doesn’t let up. The tension build relentlessly, and just when I’d caught my breath, Sharpe would toss in another revelation or twist that had me gripping the pages. The conspiracy they uncover is huge – full of cover-ups, powerful figures, and threats lurking around every corner. Every time Alex and Kat edged closer to the truth, I felt genuinely nervous for their safety. The action-packed climax had my heart racing.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes – if you love a thriller that combines sharp dialogue, political intrigue, and flawed but fantastic characters, Notes on a Drowning is an absolute must-read. Anna Sharpe has delivered a debut novel that feels bold, current and uncomfortably real.
Have you read this one yet? Let me know your thoughts!
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