When We Were Bright and Beautiful: A Novel

**A Gripping Family Drama of Privilege, Secrets, and the High Cost of Truth: Dive into Jillian Medoff's "When We Were Bright and Beautiful"** Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Manhattan's Upper East Side with Jillian Medoff's "When We Were Bright and Beautiful," a thrilling novel that explores the intricate tapestry of family, loyalty, and the devastating consequences of hidden truths. This isn't just another suspense novel; it's a deeply human story that grapples with complex moral questions and the ever-present shadows lurking beneath the glittering surface of wealth and privilege. Prepare to be ensnared in a narrative reminiscent of "Gone Girl" and "Notes on a Scandal," as Jennifer Weiner of USA Today aptly describes it, a comparison that speaks volumes about the novel's clever twists and turns. The Quinns, a seemingly perfect family, find their world shattered when Billy, the youngest son and a Princeton junior, is accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend. As Cassie Quinn, Billy's sister, a 23 year old tries to navigate the chaos that follows, but she quickly realizes that it is not that simple. Cassie, the protagonist, understands the power of money, and while she is not necessarly after happiness, she knows that it is a great advantage to have it. She also stands firm that Billy is not a rapist, but will she have to go to great lengths to prove his innocence? The Quinns immediately mobilize their resources, hiring top-tier lawyers to defend Billy. But as the media frenzy intensifies, they face an uphill battle. Billy embodies the very profile that incites public outrage: white, athletic, and privileged. The book does an amazing job at describing how people behave in the light of big catastrophes, and what actions they are willing to take to protect their own. Cassie finds herself questioning Diana's motives, the ex-girlfriend that has accused Billy. Cassie is sure that Diana's claims must have ulterior motives, since Cassie herself has experienced the devastating aftermath of a broken heart. A painful past affair with an older, influential man has left her scarred, and she's only recently begun to heal. This provides Cassie with a deep understanding of love and heartbreak, allowing her to think from Diana's perspective. As the trial approaches, the Quinns brace themselves for a relentless media onslaught. Cassie, determined to clear her brother's name, vows to do whatever it takes. However, this mission comes at a steep price. She is faced with the agonizing possibility of exposing her own closely guarded secrets, the same secrets she has worked hard to keep away from the scrutiny of the world. "When We Were Bright and Beautiful" is a lightning-paced, psychologically rich novel that races towards a shocking conclusion. Medoff masterfully explores the dark undercurrents of a seemingly idyllic family, raising profound questions about accountability, the price of truth, and the lengths we'll go to protect those we love. This large print edition of "When We Were Bright and Beautiful," published by Harper Large Print, offers an accessible and enjoyable reading experience. Published in 2022, this book will keep you glued to the pages. Perfect for readers who enjoy: * Family dramas with suspenseful twists. * Novels exploring the complexities of wealth and privilege. * Psychologically astute character studies. * Stories that grapple with moral ambiguities. * Authors like Lisa Jewell, Megan Miranda, and Ruth Ware. Get ready to be captivated by Jillian Medoff's "When We Were Bright and Beautiful," a compelling novel that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about family, loyalty, and the true meaning of justice.