New Books Network Danielle Girard, "Pinky Swear" (Simon and Schuster, 2026)
Apr 11, 2026
Danielle Girard, novelist known for tense psychological thrillers, discusses her 2026 novel Pinky Swear and the seeds of its suspense. She talks about teenage choices that shape adult lives. She explores Cleveland and Midwest roots, surrogacy research, trust symbolized by a pinky promise, and how secrets and small‑town rules drive betrayal and redemption.
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How One Teen Moment Reshapes Adult Lives
- A single teenage decision can redirect entire adult lives in unexpected ways.
- Danielle Girard built Pinky Swear from one germinal scene and explored the long shadow of a senior-year tragedy on three friends.
Teen Choices Felt Like Adult Decisions
- Teenagers believe they're adults and make high-stakes choices with peers rather than parents.
- Girard notes those 'sliding doors' small decisions—getting in cars, drinking, experimenting—often determine much larger life outcomes.
Cleveland Shapes The Girls' Identities
- Girard set her three protagonists in Cleveland to reflect Midwestern family and community values.
- She drew on living in Ohio and other regions to shape how geography influenced their characters and stability.
