What Red Was

What Red Was is a dark campus literary novel by Rosie Price about university friends Kate and Max, the wealthy family whose world draws Kate in, and the sexual violence that shatters her life. Ideal for readers interested in trauma, friendship, privilege and power. Synopsis A powerful, unforgettable story about modern love, privilege and a young woman's journey after her life falls apart. When Kate meets Max in the first week of university, a life-changing friendship begins. Over the next four years, the two become inseparable. But loving Max means knowing his family: the wealthy Rippons, all generosity, social ease and quiet repression. Theirs is not Kate's world, and yet she finds herself drawn quickly into their gilded lives, and the secrets that lie beneath. Until one summer evening at the Rippons' home, just after graduation, her life is shattered in a bedroom while a party goes on downstairs. Perfect for readers who like... Literary fiction exploring sexual violence and its aftermath. University friendships shaped by class and privilege. Character-focused fiction about trauma, recovery and lasting emotional impact. Multiple characters' perspectives. Complex family dynamics and the effects of wealth and power. Books like What Red Was Acts of Desperation by Megan Nolan My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell Expectation by Anna Hope Themes and story elements Sexual violence Trauma and recovery Friendship Class and privilege Wealth and power Family dysfunction University life