Give Me Your Hand

Kit Owens and Diane Fleming are research scientists competing for coveted positions on a groundbreaking study of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. When Diane joins Kit's lab as a new hire, their shared past threatens to upend both their professional and personal lives. The narrative moves between present-day scenes in the high-pressure research lab and the pairs' earlier encounters in high school, where they first formed an intense academic rivalry and friendship. Their relationship becomes complicated by a devastating secret that binds them together. The story unfolds in the stark setting of a competitive research facility, where ambitious scientists vie for limited positions and resources. The complex dynamics between the researchers create mounting tension as they pursue their work on a controversial women's health condition. Abbott's novel explores the intersection of ambition and morality, particularly in spaces where women must compete for power and recognition. The book examines how secrets, loyalty, and betrayal shape relationships between women who navigate male-dominated scientific institutions.

Readers describe this as a slow-burning psychological thriller that examines female ambition and rivalry in science labs. Many note the dark, taut atmosphere and complex portrayal of women's competitive relationships. Readers appreciated: - Scientific lab setting details and accuracy - Character development of Kit and Diane - Writing style compared to "literary fiction" - Exploration of women in STEM fields Common criticisms: - Pacing feels too slow in middle sections - Some plot points strain credibility - Ending left questions unanswered - Flashback structure confuses some readers Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (23,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4/5 (300+ reviews) LibraryThing: 3.8/5 (400+ ratings) "The writing is excellent but the plot drags" appears in multiple reviews. Several readers noted they "couldn't connect with any characters." A frequent comment praises Abbott's "unflinching look at female friendship and betrayal."

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🔬 The complex condition PMDD, featured prominently in the novel, affects 3-8% of women and was only officially recognized by the American Psychiatric Association in 2013. 📚 Before writing psychological thrillers, Megan Abbott earned a Ph.D. in English and American literature from New York University, specializing in hardboiled crime fiction and film noir. 🧪 The book's portrayal of women in STEM reflects reality - while women earn about 50% of science degrees, they hold only 28% of leadership positions in scientific research institutions. 🏆 "Give Me Your Hand" was named one of the best books of 2018 by Entertainment Weekly, Washington Post, and Crime Reads, cementing Abbott's reputation in psychological suspense. 📖 Abbott drew inspiration for the lab scenes from extensive interviews with female scientists and her own family connection - her sister is a research scientist who provided technical insights.