Where You End by Abbott Kahler

From bestselling nonfiction author Abbott Kahler comes a spellbinding fiction debut inspired by true events: an unusual form of amnesia upends the lives of identical twins, forcing them to face the indelible, dangerous shadow of the past.

When 22-year-old Kat Bird wakes up from a coma, she sees her mirror image: Jude, her twin sister. Jude’s face and name are the only memories Kat has from before her accident. As Kat tries to relearn her history and identity, she trusts Jude will provide all the answers. But as the months progress, Kat begins to fear that, maybe, Jude has been lying to her.

Recruit. Hunt. Perform or Perish.

Growing up in a sophisticated New Age cult, isolated from society, the girls studied poetry and literature—but also played dangerous games of cunning and savagery, games with dark lessons that followed them into adulthood. Now, with Kat’s mind as a blank slate, Jude invents an idyllic childhood in the hope of erasing this history, and all the threats it still holds.

As Kat pulls at the threads of Jude’s elaborate tapestry, those threats draw closer. When the past and present finally converge, the twins must risk everything to save both their unique bond, and each other’s lives.

Intensely creepy and beautifully written, Abbott Kahler’s Where You End is an unforgettable tale of intrigue, revenge, and moral ambiguities in the quest for redemption.

Published by Henry Holt & Co
on January 16, 2024

Review:

I was initially drawn to this book by the creepy cover, and when I read the synopsis, I immediately added it to my TBR. I was so happy when Aardvark picked it as a January selection. This is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of identity, memory, and the disturbing effects of growing up in a cult. With a captivating premise and a unique narrative style, this book kept me engaged, but I had a difficult time with the cult aspect of the book. Something about it didn’t sit well with me.

The book begins with Kat and Jude in a car. The two are in a horrible accident, and Kat wakes up with little to no memory, but she does recognize her “mirror twin.” It’s up to Jude to help Kat regain her memory, but as days go by, Kat begins to wonder if what Jude is telling her is the truth. As she begins to dig into their past, she uncovers some pretty disturbing details.

One of the standout aspects of the book is the author’s ability to create a chilling atmosphere that permeates the entire story. From the eerie cover to the opening pages, I was immediately sucked into the world of Kat and Jude, eager to uncover the trauma from their past. It’s evident Jude is hiding something from Kat, but what exactly? As Kat tries to rediscover her own past and separate it from the lies she believes Jude has been feeding her, the tension builds with each passing chapter. The author’s ability to create doubt and uncertainty is impressive, and I found myself constantly questioning which twin to trust.

The cult aspect of the story is where I had some reservations. While I understand that it was meant to add to the overall suspense, I personally found it difficult to fully connect with that particular plotline. It didn’t make sense to me at all. I got the whole concept of the cult’s idea of controlling your thoughts and actions, but when the truth about the cult was revealed and the way they went about manipulating and controlling the kids, it left a weird taste in my mouth. I didn’t really get it. What was the point? What was the cult trying to achieve with this, and why? It felt weird to me and took away from the other elements that I found most intriguing. However, I do appreciate the author’s willingness to tackle such a heavy topic and explore the lasting effects it can have on individuals. I just wish it had made more sense to me.

Despite my reservations, the mystery aspect of the story kept me engaged until the very end. Kahler weaves an intricate web of secrets and revelations, slowly unraveling the truth behind Kat’s accident and the twisted games she and Jude played with the other cult children.

The relationship between Kat and Jude is a highlight of the story and is what kept me invested in the book. As their bond is tested and strained throughout the narrative, the emotional depth and complexity of their connection are fully explored. Kahler beautifully captures the essence of sisterhood, with all its flaws and strengths – especially the bond between twins. The moments of vulnerability and the intense loyalty between the twins truly hit home, making their journey all the more impactful.

Overall, this is a bold and creative psychological thriller that will keep readers glued to the pages. While the cult aspect may not sit well with everyone, the captivating mystery and engaging characters make this book a worthwhile read. I would recommend this book to fans of psychological thrillers and anyone looking for a gripping and thought-provoking read.