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The Birdwatcher: A Zibby's Most Anticipated Murder Mystery and Legal Thriller
A Zibby's Most Anticipated Book of Fall 2025!
From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Mitchard comes a page-turning drama that explores the beauty of female friendship; the relationship between money, power, and sex; and the very human desire to protect the ones we love most.
When she is convicted of a double murder, Felicity Wild, a brilliant grad student turned high-priced escort, declares, “I may not be innocent, but I’m innocent of this.”
Reenie Bigelow never doubted it. A jury may have given Felicity a life sentence, but Reenie knows that her childhood best friend is not capable of murder. And so Reenie, a journalist, decides to use her deep connections to Felicity’s past to unravel the truth.
The more she uncovers, the more Reenie is convinced that the story the prosecution told is wrong, despite the puzzling fact that Felicity said not one single word in her own defense. But there's one thing Reenie knows for Felicity would never lie.
From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Mitchard comes a page-turning drama that explores the beauty of female friendship; the relationship between money, power, and sex; and the very human desire to protect the ones we love most.
When she is convicted of a double murder, Felicity Wild, a brilliant grad student turned high-priced escort, declares, “I may not be innocent, but I’m innocent of this.”
Reenie Bigelow never doubted it. A jury may have given Felicity a life sentence, but Reenie knows that her childhood best friend is not capable of murder. And so Reenie, a journalist, decides to use her deep connections to Felicity’s past to unravel the truth.
The more she uncovers, the more Reenie is convinced that the story the prosecution told is wrong, despite the puzzling fact that Felicity said not one single word in her own defense. But there's one thing Reenie knows for Felicity would never lie.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2025
249 people are currently reading
9376 people want to read
About the author
Jacquelyn Mitchard
68 books1,262 followersJacquelyn Mitchard’s first novel, The Deep End of the Ocean, was named by USA Today as one of the ten most influential books of the past 25 years – second only to the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling (but second by a long shot, it must be said.)
The Deep End of the Ocean was chosen as the first novel in the book club made famous by the TV host Oprah Winfrey, and transformed into a feature film produced by and starring Michelle Pfeiffer.
Most of Mitchard’s novels have been greater or lesser bestsellers – and include The Most Wanted, A Theory of Relativity, Twelve Times Blessed, The Breakdown Lane, The Good Son, and Cage of Stars. Critics have praised them for their authentic humanity and command of story. Readers identify because they see reflected, in her characters – however extreme their circumstances – emotions they already understand.
Mitchard also has written four novels for young adults.
The first, Now You See Her, from HarperTeen, is the story of a pampered, driven young actress who fakes her own abduction.
All We Know of Heaven told the story of lifetime best friends Bridget and Maureen, who are just sixteen when a fatal crash on an icy road and a poignant case of mistaken identity divide their small Minnesota town forever.
The Midnight Twins was the first in a trilogy of teen mysteries about identical twin sisters born on New Year’s Eve – one a minute before and a minute after midnight – Meredith and Mallory Brynn learn on the night they turn thirteen that their psychic abilities will force them to intervene in dire events, although one twin can see only the future and one can see only the past. The Midnight Twins is in development as a TV series by Kaleidoscope Entertainment.
Mitchard's newest novel for adult, A Very Inconvenient Scandal, out in November 2023 from Mira/HarperCollins, is the story of an acclaimed young underwater photographer whose famed marine biologist father shatters their family by marrying her best friend., a woman 35 years his junior.
At the local coffee shop, Mitchard is best-known as the mother of Rob, Dan, Marty, Francie, Mia, Will and Atticus , as the grandma of Hank and Diana and the wife of handsome Chris Brent.
Her favorite color is periwinkle blue; her favorite holiday is Halloween; her favorite flower is freesia; her favorite word is "smite," and her second favorite is "Massachusetts"; her lucky number is 119 (anyone who can guess where that comes from wins free first editions of her novels for life). She lives in her favorite place on earth, Cape Cod, summering in a villa on the Amalfi Coast. (Guess which part of that sentence is fiction.)
Her essays have appeared in publications including the New York Times, Chicago Tribune Magazine and Reader's Digest, and are widely anthologized and used in school curricula. She has taught in MFA programs in Vermont, Ohio, and Massachusetts, and is part of the faculty at the Summer Writers Institute at Yale University. She is a member of the Tall Poppies Writers and has been a fellow at the MacDowell Colony, Yaddo, and the Ragdale Foundation.
Her pet peeves are known authors and editors who cannot and will not learn the difference between “lie” and “lay” and family signs pluralized with apostrophes.
She would love to appear on just ONE episode of any incarnation of ‘Law and Order,’ as has everyone else in America. She still is willing to play the role of a murder victim – except one found by earth-moving equipment in a landfill – though she would do that in a pinch.
Mitchard would like to have a swimming pool, because, although she lives near the ocean, she is afraid of the dark water and hates sand. She would love to have a clawfoot tub, or any tub.
She believes that stories are the ways that human beings make sense of life and that our stories will save us.
The Deep End of the Ocean was chosen as the first novel in the book club made famous by the TV host Oprah Winfrey, and transformed into a feature film produced by and starring Michelle Pfeiffer.
Most of Mitchard’s novels have been greater or lesser bestsellers – and include The Most Wanted, A Theory of Relativity, Twelve Times Blessed, The Breakdown Lane, The Good Son, and Cage of Stars. Critics have praised them for their authentic humanity and command of story. Readers identify because they see reflected, in her characters – however extreme their circumstances – emotions they already understand.
Mitchard also has written four novels for young adults.
The first, Now You See Her, from HarperTeen, is the story of a pampered, driven young actress who fakes her own abduction.
All We Know of Heaven told the story of lifetime best friends Bridget and Maureen, who are just sixteen when a fatal crash on an icy road and a poignant case of mistaken identity divide their small Minnesota town forever.
The Midnight Twins was the first in a trilogy of teen mysteries about identical twin sisters born on New Year’s Eve – one a minute before and a minute after midnight – Meredith and Mallory Brynn learn on the night they turn thirteen that their psychic abilities will force them to intervene in dire events, although one twin can see only the future and one can see only the past. The Midnight Twins is in development as a TV series by Kaleidoscope Entertainment.
Mitchard's newest novel for adult, A Very Inconvenient Scandal, out in November 2023 from Mira/HarperCollins, is the story of an acclaimed young underwater photographer whose famed marine biologist father shatters their family by marrying her best friend., a woman 35 years his junior.
At the local coffee shop, Mitchard is best-known as the mother of Rob, Dan, Marty, Francie, Mia, Will and Atticus , as the grandma of Hank and Diana and the wife of handsome Chris Brent.
Her favorite color is periwinkle blue; her favorite holiday is Halloween; her favorite flower is freesia; her favorite word is "smite," and her second favorite is "Massachusetts"; her lucky number is 119 (anyone who can guess where that comes from wins free first editions of her novels for life). She lives in her favorite place on earth, Cape Cod, summering in a villa on the Amalfi Coast. (Guess which part of that sentence is fiction.)
Her essays have appeared in publications including the New York Times, Chicago Tribune Magazine and Reader's Digest, and are widely anthologized and used in school curricula. She has taught in MFA programs in Vermont, Ohio, and Massachusetts, and is part of the faculty at the Summer Writers Institute at Yale University. She is a member of the Tall Poppies Writers and has been a fellow at the MacDowell Colony, Yaddo, and the Ragdale Foundation.
Her pet peeves are known authors and editors who cannot and will not learn the difference between “lie” and “lay” and family signs pluralized with apostrophes.
She would love to appear on just ONE episode of any incarnation of ‘Law and Order,’ as has everyone else in America. She still is willing to play the role of a murder victim – except one found by earth-moving equipment in a landfill – though she would do that in a pinch.
Mitchard would like to have a swimming pool, because, although she lives near the ocean, she is afraid of the dark water and hates sand. She would love to have a clawfoot tub, or any tub.
She believes that stories are the ways that human beings make sense of life and that our stories will save us.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
December 15, 2025
I am at the 60% and I just cannot anymore. It was such a chore to pick up this book every night. I am so lost on the plot, literally, lost. I have gone back and re read sections and I still haven't a clue what is going on. I also do not understand the start of each chapter with the birds.....do those references come full circle or wth?
November 28, 2025
3.75 stars A Zibby's Most Anticipated Book of Fall 2025!
From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Mitchard comes a page-turning drama that explores the beauty of female friendship; the relationship between money, power, and sex; and the very human desire to protect the ones we love most.
When Felicity Wild, a high end escort is convicted of a double murder, journalist Reenie Bigelow is convinced that the prosecution's story is false. She doesn't believe her best friend growing up is capable of murder. But when Felicity refuses to speak with her and clear her name, Reenie teams up with the defense attorney, Sam to uncover the truth.
This is a slow-burn literary mystery so don't go into it expecting a legal thriller. The character development is superb and themes of female friendship, and control through money, power, and sex are beautifully threaded throughout the novel. Each chapter begins with a description of a unique species of bird, their behavior and attributes that relate to what is happening in the novel. That was my favorite part of the book.
I read the book and supplemented with the audiobook for an immersive experience. The audiobook performance by Gail Shalan is excellent. If you enjoy reading literary mysteries, this is one to add to your TBR.
Many thanks to NetGalley, HTP Books - MIRA, and Jacqueline Mitchard for the advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the advance listening copy.📚🎧
From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Mitchard comes a page-turning drama that explores the beauty of female friendship; the relationship between money, power, and sex; and the very human desire to protect the ones we love most.
When Felicity Wild, a high end escort is convicted of a double murder, journalist Reenie Bigelow is convinced that the prosecution's story is false. She doesn't believe her best friend growing up is capable of murder. But when Felicity refuses to speak with her and clear her name, Reenie teams up with the defense attorney, Sam to uncover the truth.
This is a slow-burn literary mystery so don't go into it expecting a legal thriller. The character development is superb and themes of female friendship, and control through money, power, and sex are beautifully threaded throughout the novel. Each chapter begins with a description of a unique species of bird, their behavior and attributes that relate to what is happening in the novel. That was my favorite part of the book.
I read the book and supplemented with the audiobook for an immersive experience. The audiobook performance by Gail Shalan is excellent. If you enjoy reading literary mysteries, this is one to add to your TBR.
Many thanks to NetGalley, HTP Books - MIRA, and Jacqueline Mitchard for the advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the advance listening copy.📚🎧
January 8, 2026
The best part of this book was the bird description at the start of each chapter. That apparently have nothing to do with this very drawn out, very wordy, very boring story told by an uninteresting person about another uninteresting person. That's really saying something considering the subject matter and characters. DNF after about 50%
December 12, 2025
I admit I only picked this book up at first because of the author and the beautiful book cover. My husband and I have fallen in love with watching all the different species of birds in our backyard feeders, as we live in the peace and quiet of the woods. The descriptions of the birds at the beginning of every chapter were fascinating and I began to notice a subtle tie-in to where the story was taking me. The story is of friendship with a little romance, courtroom drama, and mystery. It took me awhile to get into the story, but I kept with it because I wanted to know what happened and why. Overall I really enjoyed the book (even though I guessed who did it just past halfway 😆)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
February 19, 2026
I have read and loved every other book by Jacquelyn Mitchard. I have always found her to be a gifted writer. However, I just did not care for this one. I felt like there was so much jumping around that I couldn't keep track of what was going on. I even tried re-reading chapters. I hope others can enjoy this book, but it just wasn't for me.
January 10, 2026
What the fresh h*ll was this?? I really enjoyed many of this author’s early work, but this was … awful. Completely incomprehensible story, inconsistencies (did anyone even proofread this?) improbable scenarios that made my eyes almost roll out of my head. I finished it in hope that maybe it would make sense in the end, but nope. Skip this one.
December 10, 2025
The Birdwatcher by Jacquelyn Mitchard totally missed the mark for me, and I struggled to finish. This novel is all over the place, a mystery and courtroom drama with a bit of a love story and friendship saga. I still don't understand completely the title and use of bird descriptions at the beginning of each chapter; the author refers to Felicity's lifelong interest in birds and birdwatching, but that hobby plays absolutely no role in the story beyond the reference. The novel also skips any type of lead up to the romantic involvement of two main characters, I had to reread a few sections because I was sure I had missed something...I had not.
The most compelling aspect of the story was the mystery of who had murdered the two men, if not Felicity, and even though I had it figured out at the midpoint of the novel, it was interesting to find out why it was done.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the digital ARC of The Birdwatcher by Jacquelynn Mitchard. The opinions in this review are my own.
The most compelling aspect of the story was the mystery of who had murdered the two men, if not Felicity, and even though I had it figured out at the midpoint of the novel, it was interesting to find out why it was done.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the digital ARC of The Birdwatcher by Jacquelynn Mitchard. The opinions in this review are my own.
January 26, 2026
A lot of words but doesn't say much of anything.
December 29, 2025
This novel confused me- I didn’t know what the author intended it to be - a mystery, a coming of age or finding one’s true path kind of book or a novel about deep friendship?
This book was so slow paced for me that I put it down many times and contemplated not finishing it. The plot strand that kept me returning was to solve the murder mystery at the center of it, but I solved it before the halfway mark based on the obvious clues- I needed to know the motive and method so I hung in for this.
It was a strange book and I did not find the characters very relatable- Reenie was a very odd character- maybe if the POV would have been from Felicity’s side of the story as an unreliable narrator- it would have made more sense? It seemed like Reenie was trying to figure herself out instead of getting to the bottom of the mystery, and she was more concerned with her love life and life rather than her friend’s trial- I didn’t think she did very much to uncover the truth. It’s a good thing that the truth practically slapped her in the face so that I could find out what really happened (I knew who did it all along).
The conclusion of the novel was better than the beginning, but I’m not sure this is a must read.
I’m also very confused about the bird descriptions- I could not understand the connection- was this related to each chapter or was this Felicity’s voice because she couldn’t think anything else? I never understood the juxtaposition of the bird description beginning each chapter, and this was frustrating as well. I could not have read this any slower and found myself rereading to try to make sense of the descriptions.
Thank you Harlequin Books Mira for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book was so slow paced for me that I put it down many times and contemplated not finishing it. The plot strand that kept me returning was to solve the murder mystery at the center of it, but I solved it before the halfway mark based on the obvious clues- I needed to know the motive and method so I hung in for this.
It was a strange book and I did not find the characters very relatable- Reenie was a very odd character- maybe if the POV would have been from Felicity’s side of the story as an unreliable narrator- it would have made more sense? It seemed like Reenie was trying to figure herself out instead of getting to the bottom of the mystery, and she was more concerned with her love life and life rather than her friend’s trial- I didn’t think she did very much to uncover the truth. It’s a good thing that the truth practically slapped her in the face so that I could find out what really happened (I knew who did it all along).
The conclusion of the novel was better than the beginning, but I’m not sure this is a must read.
I’m also very confused about the bird descriptions- I could not understand the connection- was this related to each chapter or was this Felicity’s voice because she couldn’t think anything else? I never understood the juxtaposition of the bird description beginning each chapter, and this was frustrating as well. I could not have read this any slower and found myself rereading to try to make sense of the descriptions.
Thank you Harlequin Books Mira for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 2, 2026
Too many inconceivable & rushed relationships. Also was confusing/random how the protagonist referred to her parents by their first names at times and other times she referred to them as Mom & Dad -- sometimes in the same paragraph. Quotes were also frequently disjointed. Best part of the book was the little snippets about birds at the start of each chapter.
January 17, 2026
I love Jacquelyn Mitchard and I couldn't wait to read her new book. But this was just a big mess. It had nothing to do with birdwatching or birds except I guess the author likes birds so decided to put some facts about them at the beginning of each chapter. The bird facts didn't tie into anything. The "birdwatcher" wasn't even the main character; it was a totally immature, unrealistic, annoying, totally unlikeable young woman who had everything fall into her lap in the most abrupt, unrealistic way.
The writing was terrible and only in the last few pages did the author circle back to the weak "mystery", revealing the perpetrator to be the most obvious character.
The writing was terrible and only in the last few pages did the author circle back to the weak "mystery", revealing the perpetrator to be the most obvious character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2026
I listened to the audiobook of The Birdwatcher and it is exactly what a great audiobook should be: absorbing, emotionally sharp, and impossible to tune out. I read it while walking the dogs, doing laundry, grocery shopping and I definitely washed my whites with some darks by accident and bought the wrong brand of cereal because I was so absorbed (the dogs are okay though!).
This story sneaks up on you. What starts as a quiet, almost meditative setup turns into a deeply human mystery about grief, guilt, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive. Mitchard writes with restraint and obvious confidence – you are in the hands of a master storyteller. The author crafts steady, intelligent tension that keeps tightening.
The audiobook narration by Gail Shalan is excellent. Her voices are strong, and distinct, and the pacing is spot-on. She adds depth without overacting. This matters here because this particular novel lives in subtext. Instead, the performance amplifies the isolation, unease, and moral complexity at the heart of the book. Her work is very engrossing.
If you like character-driven suspense that respects your intelligence and lets silence do some of the work, this delivers. It is thoughtful, unsettling, and quietly devastating in the best way.
Highly recommended.
This story sneaks up on you. What starts as a quiet, almost meditative setup turns into a deeply human mystery about grief, guilt, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive. Mitchard writes with restraint and obvious confidence – you are in the hands of a master storyteller. The author crafts steady, intelligent tension that keeps tightening.
The audiobook narration by Gail Shalan is excellent. Her voices are strong, and distinct, and the pacing is spot-on. She adds depth without overacting. This matters here because this particular novel lives in subtext. Instead, the performance amplifies the isolation, unease, and moral complexity at the heart of the book. Her work is very engrossing.
If you like character-driven suspense that respects your intelligence and lets silence do some of the work, this delivers. It is thoughtful, unsettling, and quietly devastating in the best way.
Highly recommended.
January 31, 2026
When I was about 2/3 of the way through with this book I almost dnfed it. It felt like I was looking through a pinhole at the story. It was disjointed, unorganized, and I didn’t feel any connection to the characters, nor the story. Most of the book was intangible substance, not actual storyline but thoughts from the main character’s (Irene, or Reenie) head. The story line was jumbled and I had difficulty keeping a timeline in my head. The ending was abrupt, but satisfying in the sense that it mostly made sense. It had a nice ending.
Overall, three stars is probably generous.
Overall, three stars is probably generous.
April 30, 2026
What a terrific find on the new book shelf at the library. A new author for me and a great story. Interesting and intriguing plot lines and styles. Loved it and can’t wait to read more from this prolific author and will start with The Deep End Of The Ocean.
Sidebar: read the author’s bio. She was a journalist, has written many books of various genres, teaches a writing course at a local college and has NINE children! So a go getter haha
Sidebar: read the author’s bio. She was a journalist, has written many books of various genres, teaches a writing course at a local college and has NINE children! So a go getter haha
March 7, 2026
I am a Jacqulyn Mitchard fan. This book missed the mark in so many ways. It was confusing; I kept having to go back and figure out what was being talked about; I didn't understand the plot. The love story made absolutely no sense and that was the best part of the book. I kept wondering if this was an early draft that never got edited and accidentally got released as the final copy. I've never felt that way about a book and I'm an avid reader. Very disappointing.
February 10, 2026
a beautiful novel by a loved author. the story is of love reconcilation vulnerability and community all gathered round a murder in Wisconsin and bird watching.
January 31, 2026
I've read several of Ms Mitchard's books, and this has to be the best one of all. This novel has a very strong woman as the central character. Her best friend from childhood is another character, but she's fraught with flaws among the good merits she has. Boy, does this story weave a beautiful, complicated tale of good and evil, friendships, marriages, lawyering and much more. This is such an entertaining book.
May 2, 2026
Excellent!
February 17, 2026
Honestly I really wanted to like this book, but there were too many things that really interrupted the experience for me. I thought this was going to be a crime thriller, but there was a needless romance shoved in the middle there, like her editor said "romance is really in right now, let's add something in here." People did things I wasn't convinced real people would do, despite the constant reiteration of the "if this were a novel, I wouldn't believe this, but it's a news story, and sometimes life is messy *shrug*" trope here. Except this IS a novel, and these characters were not believable! And I had a lot of trouble following timelines and conversations. A lot of the past and future bled together with the present and it was hard to keep up. I got very confused in a passage toward the end, where Mitchard says they're in Sheboygan, but they go grocery shopping on a "tropical day in one of those vivid stores that only exist in Florida," one character fully in a swimsuit and coverup. But then the next day they're still in Sheboygan? And they don't fly to Florida for another few days? It was just very hard to follow, very frustratingly NOT what I thought I was getting, and not very convincing, even with the plot twist. I don't buy into "they were just crazy" as a motive for murder. If you don't know why your character committed a murder, they're not developed enough as a character.
Very pleased that my book club agreed with me on this one. Sorry to pick a stinker, guys.
Very pleased that my book club agreed with me on this one. Sorry to pick a stinker, guys.
December 29, 2025
This one’s tricky to rate. This book is, at its heart, a mystery, but around that core is an in depth story about the supposed murders’s best friend and her quest to write/solve/resolve the murder. At times that story line felt like a deviation from the real plot. However, I especially like the way the story was framed and it definitely kept me reading so…4 stars.
January 14, 2026
Mitchard has a distinctive author's voice. Think of your trusted best friend talking to you over coffee, sometimes lightly casual, sometimes deadly serious.
In The Birdwatcher, we follow Reenie Bigelow, a young woman early in her journalism career, shocked to learn that her best friend from childhood, Felicity Wild, has become a sex worker and is charged with a double murder. How does she deal with this blow and how does she use her skills as a journalist to get to the bottom of the mystery? Against all logic, Felicity refuses to talk with Reenie. Why? Did Felicity actually kill two men? How can she discover the truth? Can the truth set her friend free?
Mitchard takes us through Reenie's journey as she tries to remain objective, while fervently hoping that she can discover enough information to save her friend from the terrible fate or, if the facts go the other way, to understand why her friend did this and be able to accept it. What is the startling secret that Felicity has hidden even from Reenie?
The answers are there, and the trip to find them is a worthwhile reading experience.
In The Birdwatcher, we follow Reenie Bigelow, a young woman early in her journalism career, shocked to learn that her best friend from childhood, Felicity Wild, has become a sex worker and is charged with a double murder. How does she deal with this blow and how does she use her skills as a journalist to get to the bottom of the mystery? Against all logic, Felicity refuses to talk with Reenie. Why? Did Felicity actually kill two men? How can she discover the truth? Can the truth set her friend free?
Mitchard takes us through Reenie's journey as she tries to remain objective, while fervently hoping that she can discover enough information to save her friend from the terrible fate or, if the facts go the other way, to understand why her friend did this and be able to accept it. What is the startling secret that Felicity has hidden even from Reenie?
The answers are there, and the trip to find them is a worthwhile reading experience.
January 21, 2026
Not what I expected but in a really good way. I loved the writing and insights. Salacious at times and yet reserved. This one hooked me. The links to birds and how each bird explained at the start of the chapter then linked into the story in off beat way was well done.
February 8, 2026
I almost feel bad for what I’m about to write. But this was terrible.
I started out hopeful. The poems in the beginning. The starting of each chapter with a little bird info. The lead into what was bound to be a mystery. Then came chapter 2.
Queue the insanely long irrelevant happenings, literally pages and pages droning on about a small mostly boring convo with an old college professor. I started skimming.
I kept skimming until I saw the name Felicity (the woman on trial) and just started reading those parts.
Then, this wildly random love affair between the main character (hell I just closed this book and have already forgotten her name) and Felicity’s lawyer starts. It lasts less than a week, but you’d better believe the highly unlikeable main character is going to whine about losing the love of her life for the majority of the remainder of the book.
Then you circle back around to the trial finally, and quickly you learn the verdict. Then you start to get some answers.
Also other things I hated:
-names are dropped like you’re supposed to know who they’re talking about.
-she calls her mom by her first name
-wording is weird in a lot of places, to the point I would reread a few times and give up and move on.
Why I bothered finishing this, I’ll never know. 0 stars.
I started out hopeful. The poems in the beginning. The starting of each chapter with a little bird info. The lead into what was bound to be a mystery. Then came chapter 2.
Queue the insanely long irrelevant happenings, literally pages and pages droning on about a small mostly boring convo with an old college professor. I started skimming.
I kept skimming until I saw the name Felicity (the woman on trial) and just started reading those parts.
Then, this wildly random love affair between the main character (hell I just closed this book and have already forgotten her name) and Felicity’s lawyer starts. It lasts less than a week, but you’d better believe the highly unlikeable main character is going to whine about losing the love of her life for the majority of the remainder of the book.
Then you circle back around to the trial finally, and quickly you learn the verdict. Then you start to get some answers.
Also other things I hated:
-names are dropped like you’re supposed to know who they’re talking about.
-she calls her mom by her first name
-wording is weird in a lot of places, to the point I would reread a few times and give up and move on.
Why I bothered finishing this, I’ll never know. 0 stars.
April 13, 2026
The most vile characters are the “Christians”. That stereotype is getting tiresome. The plot is a meandering mess, but I stuck it out, hoping for a solution to the crime, and the motivations of the characters. Disappointing.
January 16, 2026
A good book that overlays birds and their characteristics with a murder and life mystery and drama. What would you do to protect your children?
December 11, 2025
In Jacquelyn Mitchard's gripping novel, THE BIRDWATCHER, a suspenseful and emotionally charged narrative unfolds through the perspective of a tenacious journalist.
As she immerses herself in the harrowing double murder case of her childhood best friend, she unearths a labyrinth of hidden truths and shattered connections. The bond they once shared, fragile and complex, begins to unravel, revealing the darker undercurrents of their intertwined lives and the haunting shadows of the past.
Driven by an unwavering conviction of her friend's innocence—despite the silence that surrounds her during the trial—she embarks on a gripping quest for the truth. This narrative unfolds like a rich tapestry, intertwining themes of friendship, power, loyalty, and the hidden nuances of human relationship dynamics.
Moreover, the avian world serves not only as a backdrop but also as a poignant thematic guide throughout the story. The behavior of birds, woven seamlessly into the narrative, reflects the intricate complexities of friendship, betrayal, and unspoken secrets, offering readers a profound commentary on the nature of trust and human connection within this mesmerizing literary mystery.
About...
Felicity Wild, a former brilliant biology student who became a high-priced escort, is convicted of the double murder of two of her clients. The victims were an economics professor and a dairy salesman, both of whom had named Felicity as a beneficiary on their life insurance policies.
Reenie Bigelow, a fashion journalist with no crime reporting experience, gets permission to cover the story for her magazine and use her personal connection to Felicity to find the truth. Reenie is determined to prove her friend's innocence and clear her name.
A major point of intrigue is that Felicity, while declaring her innocence of this specific crime, refuses to say a single word in her own defense during the trial, confounding her attorney and the public.
Reenie returns to their shared hometown in Wisconsin to investigate Felicity's past and the circumstances of the murders, interviewing old acquaintances and family members.
As part of her investigation, Reenie takes a job as a bartender at "Ophelia," the strip club where Felicity worked, and uncovers details about the club's criminal underbelly and the interplay between sex, money, and power. How did her brilliant friend become involved in this industry and get caught up in a double murder?
Reenie faces opposition from her boss, Felicity's attorney, and others who don't want her to proceed. Her investigation leads to a shocking discovery that ultimately changes everything she thought she knew about her friend and their shared past.
The story builds tension around the question of why Felicity is protecting the real murderer or what secret she is hiding, culminating in a dramatic, shocking discovery that reveals the actual circumstances of the crimes.
My Thoughts...
In THE BIRDWATCHER, an intricate web of mystery envelops Felicity, whose silence during her dramatic murder trial serves as a haunting veil over a deep, buried secret. What truths is she shielding from the world, and what sacrifices is she willing to endure to protect them?
The narrative crescendos with tension as Reenie, a determined journalist, embarks on an investigative journey to peel back the layers of Felicity’s enigmatic life. It’s a quest driven by loyalty and an unshakeable belief that her friend would never deceive her.
THE BIRDWATCHER is a beautifully crafted novel, richly layered with symbolism and metaphor. The title resonates deeply within the story, as birds take center stage, intertwined with both thematic and structural elements.
Each chapter begins with an enchanting, imaginative description of a unique bird species—details that not only fascinate but also mirror the events and emotional undertones within that chapter.
From the majestic Sandhill cranes to the familiar robins and the mysterious crows, each avian metaphor serves to illuminate human behavior through the discerning eye of a birdwatcher. Reenie becomes the observer, painstakingly surveying those around her to unlock profound truths hidden beneath the surface.
Patience and observation emerge as the primary connections between the birds and the narrative, reflecting the painstaking process of uncovering mysteries. This slow-burning literary mystery invites readers to take their time, much like a dedicated birdwatcher who must remain still and silent, waiting with bated breath for the elusive beauty of nature to reveal itself.
As Reenie Bigelow delves deeper into her investigation, her journey mirrors that of a birdwatcher traversing the wild, uncovering secrets through careful observation of human actions and motivations. Felicity’s trial silence demands the same patient understanding from those around her, emphasizing the complexities that define her true motivations—challenges similar to deciphering the subtle behaviors of a wild bird.
Mitchard's portrayal of female friendship within THE BIRDWATCHER enriches the narrative’s themes, showcasing a bond so profound that it eclipses reason and external evidence. It underscores notions of unwavering loyalty, identity, and the hidden sacrifices women often bear, crafting layers of connection that bind the characters tightly together.
Key Themes...
~ Unquestioning Loyalty
~Unwavering Friendship
~ The Power of Shared History and Memory
~ The Nuances of Trust and Betrayal
~ Secrets and Protection
~ Identity and Perception
~ Contrast and Class Distinction
~ A Return to Roots
~ Small Town Secrets
The relentless drive of loyalty propels Reenie forward, compelling her to risk her career and safety in the pursuit of truth. This investigation transcends mere procedural detail; it is a profound journey back to the roots of the people and places that shaped their intertwined lives. It suggests that our deepest understanding of another often comes from a history woven over a lifetime, not solely from the cold confines of a courtroom.
The Audiobook...
I had the pleasure of listening to the spectacular audiobook. You’ll find yourself irresistibly drawn to every mention of birds and quotes intricately woven throughout the narrative. The audiobook, in particular, is a true gem, brought to life by the talented and award-winning narrator, Gail Shalan, who happens to be one of my personal favorites. I am continually amazed by her remarkable ability to breathe life into the characters with distinct, (with many unique voices), each so perfectly crafted that it feels as if you’re conversing with them directly. Her enchanting performance pulls you into the immersive story from the very first word, creating a spellbinding atmosphere. With expert pacing and rich expression, she transforms the listening experience into an exhilarating journey filled with suspense, mystery, and an ever-present intrigue that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Recs...
For those captivated by the rich tapestry of mystery, complex female friendships, and deep-seated secrets in THE BIRTHWATCHER, I recommend exploring these compelling titles:
- The Good Son by Jacquelyn Mitchard
- None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell
- Friends and Liars by Kit Frick
- Best of Friends by Kamila Shamsie
- Sadie by Courtney Summers
- When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain
Each of these selections offers a unique blend of suspense and emotional depth, sure to resonate with readers who appreciate the intricacies of the human experience.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Dec 09, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars
Dec 2025 Must-Read Books
Dec Newsletter
As she immerses herself in the harrowing double murder case of her childhood best friend, she unearths a labyrinth of hidden truths and shattered connections. The bond they once shared, fragile and complex, begins to unravel, revealing the darker undercurrents of their intertwined lives and the haunting shadows of the past.
Driven by an unwavering conviction of her friend's innocence—despite the silence that surrounds her during the trial—she embarks on a gripping quest for the truth. This narrative unfolds like a rich tapestry, intertwining themes of friendship, power, loyalty, and the hidden nuances of human relationship dynamics.
Moreover, the avian world serves not only as a backdrop but also as a poignant thematic guide throughout the story. The behavior of birds, woven seamlessly into the narrative, reflects the intricate complexities of friendship, betrayal, and unspoken secrets, offering readers a profound commentary on the nature of trust and human connection within this mesmerizing literary mystery.
About...
Felicity Wild, a former brilliant biology student who became a high-priced escort, is convicted of the double murder of two of her clients. The victims were an economics professor and a dairy salesman, both of whom had named Felicity as a beneficiary on their life insurance policies.
Reenie Bigelow, a fashion journalist with no crime reporting experience, gets permission to cover the story for her magazine and use her personal connection to Felicity to find the truth. Reenie is determined to prove her friend's innocence and clear her name.
A major point of intrigue is that Felicity, while declaring her innocence of this specific crime, refuses to say a single word in her own defense during the trial, confounding her attorney and the public.
Reenie returns to their shared hometown in Wisconsin to investigate Felicity's past and the circumstances of the murders, interviewing old acquaintances and family members.
As part of her investigation, Reenie takes a job as a bartender at "Ophelia," the strip club where Felicity worked, and uncovers details about the club's criminal underbelly and the interplay between sex, money, and power. How did her brilliant friend become involved in this industry and get caught up in a double murder?
Reenie faces opposition from her boss, Felicity's attorney, and others who don't want her to proceed. Her investigation leads to a shocking discovery that ultimately changes everything she thought she knew about her friend and their shared past.
The story builds tension around the question of why Felicity is protecting the real murderer or what secret she is hiding, culminating in a dramatic, shocking discovery that reveals the actual circumstances of the crimes.
My Thoughts...
In THE BIRDWATCHER, an intricate web of mystery envelops Felicity, whose silence during her dramatic murder trial serves as a haunting veil over a deep, buried secret. What truths is she shielding from the world, and what sacrifices is she willing to endure to protect them?
The narrative crescendos with tension as Reenie, a determined journalist, embarks on an investigative journey to peel back the layers of Felicity’s enigmatic life. It’s a quest driven by loyalty and an unshakeable belief that her friend would never deceive her.
THE BIRDWATCHER is a beautifully crafted novel, richly layered with symbolism and metaphor. The title resonates deeply within the story, as birds take center stage, intertwined with both thematic and structural elements.
Each chapter begins with an enchanting, imaginative description of a unique bird species—details that not only fascinate but also mirror the events and emotional undertones within that chapter.
From the majestic Sandhill cranes to the familiar robins and the mysterious crows, each avian metaphor serves to illuminate human behavior through the discerning eye of a birdwatcher. Reenie becomes the observer, painstakingly surveying those around her to unlock profound truths hidden beneath the surface.
Patience and observation emerge as the primary connections between the birds and the narrative, reflecting the painstaking process of uncovering mysteries. This slow-burning literary mystery invites readers to take their time, much like a dedicated birdwatcher who must remain still and silent, waiting with bated breath for the elusive beauty of nature to reveal itself.
As Reenie Bigelow delves deeper into her investigation, her journey mirrors that of a birdwatcher traversing the wild, uncovering secrets through careful observation of human actions and motivations. Felicity’s trial silence demands the same patient understanding from those around her, emphasizing the complexities that define her true motivations—challenges similar to deciphering the subtle behaviors of a wild bird.
Mitchard's portrayal of female friendship within THE BIRDWATCHER enriches the narrative’s themes, showcasing a bond so profound that it eclipses reason and external evidence. It underscores notions of unwavering loyalty, identity, and the hidden sacrifices women often bear, crafting layers of connection that bind the characters tightly together.
Key Themes...
~ Unquestioning Loyalty
~Unwavering Friendship
~ The Power of Shared History and Memory
~ The Nuances of Trust and Betrayal
~ Secrets and Protection
~ Identity and Perception
~ Contrast and Class Distinction
~ A Return to Roots
~ Small Town Secrets
The relentless drive of loyalty propels Reenie forward, compelling her to risk her career and safety in the pursuit of truth. This investigation transcends mere procedural detail; it is a profound journey back to the roots of the people and places that shaped their intertwined lives. It suggests that our deepest understanding of another often comes from a history woven over a lifetime, not solely from the cold confines of a courtroom.
The Audiobook...
I had the pleasure of listening to the spectacular audiobook. You’ll find yourself irresistibly drawn to every mention of birds and quotes intricately woven throughout the narrative. The audiobook, in particular, is a true gem, brought to life by the talented and award-winning narrator, Gail Shalan, who happens to be one of my personal favorites. I am continually amazed by her remarkable ability to breathe life into the characters with distinct, (with many unique voices), each so perfectly crafted that it feels as if you’re conversing with them directly. Her enchanting performance pulls you into the immersive story from the very first word, creating a spellbinding atmosphere. With expert pacing and rich expression, she transforms the listening experience into an exhilarating journey filled with suspense, mystery, and an ever-present intrigue that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Recs...
For those captivated by the rich tapestry of mystery, complex female friendships, and deep-seated secrets in THE BIRTHWATCHER, I recommend exploring these compelling titles:
- The Good Son by Jacquelyn Mitchard
- None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell
- Friends and Liars by Kit Frick
- Best of Friends by Kamila Shamsie
- Sadie by Courtney Summers
- When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain
Each of these selections offers a unique blend of suspense and emotional depth, sure to resonate with readers who appreciate the intricacies of the human experience.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Dec 09, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars
Dec 2025 Must-Read Books
Dec Newsletter
January 3, 2026
A slow start but worth the time to get all the connections, the players, and the story to come full circle. I enjoyed each lesson on birds that began each chapter. Reenie's best friend has been arrested for 2 murders. Felicity refuses to see Reenie. Reenie gets approval from her boss to write a story about the murders/trial for the magazine. Is she doing it to prove Felicity is innocent, to understand how her friend changed after high school, to understand the life choice is chose? Intrigue, suspense, romance, friendship, and family (the good and the bad) are all wrapped up in this engaging story.
December 22, 2025
“The Bird Watcher,” by Jacquelyn Mitchard. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ NOT A SPOILER. This is a heartbreaking book about love; the love of childhood friends now grown, of maternal love, of all consuming romantic love. it’s a book about secrets, lots of secrets. It raises questions that every parent would have to answer if their chuld(ren) didn’t grow up like the kids on Little House of the Prarie, a tv shiw I actually haven’t seen, but I think the kids were like little human obedient angels. This book’s twists and turns seem like they are the obvious turns a story might take; but they’re much more than that. It’s veey much a psychological thriller disguised as fluff. it’s absolutely NOT fluff.
January 7, 2026
I found this book to be hard to follow at times. The story seemed to jump around and there were several times where something was happening that had me completely lost. Things were referenced that were never brought up before. I had to go back and figure out if I had missed something. I really felt early on that this wasn’t a book for me, but I don’t like to eave something unfinished. Ended up disappointed in myself for not going with my gut.
February 3, 2026
1.5 stars
I'm kind of surprised that I finished the book. The murder plot meandered all over the place. The "romance" part was so preposterous that I constantly rolled my eyes. But, I needed to find out "who done it" so I hung in there.
I'm kind of surprised that I finished the book. The murder plot meandered all over the place. The "romance" part was so preposterous that I constantly rolled my eyes. But, I needed to find out "who done it" so I hung in there.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews