In my opinion, this novel starts off slow but gathers momentum towards the middle and end.
The central conflict between Beth and Justin is well drawn out and their relationship highs and lows are interesting and exciting. Beth, the protagonist is a talented swimmer. She’s also the granddaughter of a well known poet, Benjamin Crowe. The book focuses at times on aspects of Crowe’s life and I found these, at times, slightly tedious. Justin is an academic who wants to go through Ben’s papers and Beth becomes entangled in a relationship with him.
The climax of the book is gripping, the denouement graceful. Holding Her Breath is a pleasant, absorbing read.