The Note : A Novel

The Note follows three lifelong friends—May, Lauren, and Kelsey—reuniting for a weekend getaway in the Hamptons after years of drifting apart. What begins as a chance to reconnect turns explosive when a reckless prank spirals into chaos, drawing the attention of the police. May, once the “Little Sheriff” of their childhood trio, finds herself questioning everything she thought she knew about her friends. As secrets from their shared past resurface, loyalties are tested, and the line between truth and betrayal blurs.

Alafair Burke masterfully weaves a tale of friendship’s fragility, exploring how a single misstep can unravel decades of trust. The story delves into the complexities of female bonds, societal pressures, and the haunting weight of regret. Set against the backdrop of a tense police investigation, the narrative shifts between past and present, revealing how a tragic accident and personal scandals shaped the trio’s dynamics.

Burke’s sharp prose keeps readers guessing, with twists that challenge assumptions about guilt, innocence, and the masks people wear. The novel also critiques modern social dynamics, from viral shaming to the erosion of privacy in the digital age. As the investigation tightens, each character’s flaws and vulnerabilities come to light, painting a portrait of imperfect lives colliding.

The pacing is relentless, balancing intimate character studies with the urgency of a thriller. Fans of domestic suspense will appreciate the layered exploration of trauma and redemption, while the courtroom-ready plot twists showcase Burke’s expertise as a former prosecutor. The ending lingers, leaving readers to ponder the cost of loyalty and the secrets we bury to protect ourselves—and each other.