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Known to the Victim
From nationally bestselling author K.L. Armstrong comes a new heartstopping, propulsive, race-against-the-clock thriller.
How far will you go to protect the only family you have?
When Amy Gibson's mother is brutally murdered by her boyfriend, Amy's world is completely undone. Overcome with grief and heartache, she withdraws from everything around her—college, her friends, her entire life. Until her estranged half-brother, Oliver, saves her, pulling her back into her life and giving her family. Giving her a home.
Eight years later, she's picked herself up and has worked hard to move forward. She’s the host of a popular true crime podcast that focuses on crimes against women committed by their partners and is finding purpose and healing through helping women in ways she couldn't help her mother.
And then Oliver is accused of the unthinkable—something that is so unlike him. Something that horrifies Amy. But desperate to save the only family she has, she sets out to prove her brother's innocence.
But as the days pass and more information about Oliver and his past slowly comes to light, Amy begins realizing that nothing is ever as it seems—especially when it comes to family.
How far will you go to protect the only family you have?
When Amy Gibson's mother is brutally murdered by her boyfriend, Amy's world is completely undone. Overcome with grief and heartache, she withdraws from everything around her—college, her friends, her entire life. Until her estranged half-brother, Oliver, saves her, pulling her back into her life and giving her family. Giving her a home.
Eight years later, she's picked herself up and has worked hard to move forward. She’s the host of a popular true crime podcast that focuses on crimes against women committed by their partners and is finding purpose and healing through helping women in ways she couldn't help her mother.
And then Oliver is accused of the unthinkable—something that is so unlike him. Something that horrifies Amy. But desperate to save the only family she has, she sets out to prove her brother's innocence.
But as the days pass and more information about Oliver and his past slowly comes to light, Amy begins realizing that nothing is ever as it seems—especially when it comes to family.
335 pages, Paperback
First published June 25, 2024
231 people are currently reading
3210 people want to read
About the author
K.L. Armstrong
7 books479 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Pen name of author Kelley Armstrong.
Pen name of author Kelley Armstrong.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 306 reviews
June 27, 2024
Known to the Victim by K L Armstrong
Psychological mystery / thriller.
Amy Gibson’s mother is brutally murdered by her new boyfriend. Amy is overcome with grief and basically withdraws from life until her estranged step-brother OlUber helps her return to normal.
Eight years later, Amy has worked hard to help victims with a true crime podcast that focuses on crimes against women, committed by their partners. She’s finding purpose in helping women in ways she couldn’t help her mother.
Suddenly Oliver is being accused of murdering his wife when witnesses at the time testified he wasn’t responsible. Then question arise about his girlfriend from college.
Amy does a podcast advising women about crimes and hidden agendas. She’s positive Oliver is a good guy. So what else can be going on?
You think you know who your friends are and who you can trust. You think, my accounts are safe. You think you’re protected from the darker elements. Until something happens. Then who do you listen to? Who do you trust to tell you the truth?
This thriller will asks those questions and takes you along for the ride of discovery and awareness.
I wanted to believe in the good.
Compelling thriller. More twists than expected through the very end. Who has your back?
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Psychological mystery / thriller.
Amy Gibson’s mother is brutally murdered by her new boyfriend. Amy is overcome with grief and basically withdraws from life until her estranged step-brother OlUber helps her return to normal.
Eight years later, Amy has worked hard to help victims with a true crime podcast that focuses on crimes against women, committed by their partners. She’s finding purpose in helping women in ways she couldn’t help her mother.
Suddenly Oliver is being accused of murdering his wife when witnesses at the time testified he wasn’t responsible. Then question arise about his girlfriend from college.
Amy does a podcast advising women about crimes and hidden agendas. She’s positive Oliver is a good guy. So what else can be going on?
You think you know who your friends are and who you can trust. You think, my accounts are safe. You think you’re protected from the darker elements. Until something happens. Then who do you listen to? Who do you trust to tell you the truth?
This thriller will asks those questions and takes you along for the ride of discovery and awareness.
I wanted to believe in the good.
Compelling thriller. More twists than expected through the very end. Who has your back?
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
June 29, 2024
Amy’s mother is brutally murdered and left for dead. They found a man responsible and he’s been serving his time. This crushes her and she lives a depressed life.
One day Amy’s estranged half brother, Oliver reaches out to her and they reconnect. Fast forward eight years later, Amy has her own podcast that’s called Known To The Victim. Her podcast supports women who are victims of abuse. During one of her live shows, a woman shouts some disturbing stuff accusing her brother of being a murderer. Why? Oliver has had a few women in his life who have died. One a suicide and another a mysterious drowning during a boating accident.
As time goes by, Amy is sure her brother is innocent. She just knows it. Is Oliver really the brother she thought he was?
This book has lots of twists and turns. Yes, some of it is hard to believe so you just have to roll with it. However, if you enjoy a twisty story and can suspend your disbelief, check it out. Out now.
3.5 ⭐️
One day Amy’s estranged half brother, Oliver reaches out to her and they reconnect. Fast forward eight years later, Amy has her own podcast that’s called Known To The Victim. Her podcast supports women who are victims of abuse. During one of her live shows, a woman shouts some disturbing stuff accusing her brother of being a murderer. Why? Oliver has had a few women in his life who have died. One a suicide and another a mysterious drowning during a boating accident.
As time goes by, Amy is sure her brother is innocent. She just knows it. Is Oliver really the brother she thought he was?
This book has lots of twists and turns. Yes, some of it is hard to believe so you just have to roll with it. However, if you enjoy a twisty story and can suspend your disbelief, check it out. Out now.
3.5 ⭐️
June 24, 2024
4.5/5 stars
This is a riveting thriller! I absolutely loved it!
Kelley Armstrong is my favorite author. So I had very high hopes for Known to the Victim. And I was not disappointed. From the first intense paragraph to the last sentence I was completely enthralled by this amazing read.
The narrator is Amy Gibson. The prologue is so powerful. And then the story moves forward eight years. Twenty-eight year old Amy is now a true crime podcaster, which is such an amazing job in a thriller.
This book was chilling and I could not put it down. There is a fascinating mystery. And I honestly could not wait to see how everything played out. And the hint of romance was perfection.
Known to the Victim is an incredible thriller. If you enjoy true crime this book will be for you.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada/Doubleday Canada and netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
This is a riveting thriller! I absolutely loved it!
Kelley Armstrong is my favorite author. So I had very high hopes for Known to the Victim. And I was not disappointed. From the first intense paragraph to the last sentence I was completely enthralled by this amazing read.
The narrator is Amy Gibson. The prologue is so powerful. And then the story moves forward eight years. Twenty-eight year old Amy is now a true crime podcaster, which is such an amazing job in a thriller.
This book was chilling and I could not put it down. There is a fascinating mystery. And I honestly could not wait to see how everything played out. And the hint of romance was perfection.
Known to the Victim is an incredible thriller. If you enjoy true crime this book will be for you.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Canada/Doubleday Canada and netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
June 5, 2024
I can't believe this is my first Armstrong book under this name. I absolutely adore her writing and don't know how I have missed her writing under this name. I can say, without a doubt, this will not be my last. I loved this. It had everything I love in a really good mystery that keeps me on my toes, and more importantly, turning the pages. This was so much fun, interesting, and a great read. I will be searching out her others now for sure.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
July 22, 2024
2.75✨ The plot fell a little short of being interesting and the ending was far too rushed. Would have liked a little more depth to the characters in this one.
September 24, 2024
So good!
March 7, 2024
Loved it!!
This book is an irresistible page turner I could not put down! This book is an action-packed thriller!
Amy has a podcast about crimes against women and is put right in the middle of a crime- mystery about her own brother. Great paced surprises and twists throughout the book.
Thank you Netgalley for this eArc for my honest review!!
This book is an irresistible page turner I could not put down! This book is an action-packed thriller!
Amy has a podcast about crimes against women and is put right in the middle of a crime- mystery about her own brother. Great paced surprises and twists throughout the book.
Thank you Netgalley for this eArc for my honest review!!
August 15, 2025
This book was a psychological thriller (my fav kind) It follows Amy who is a true crime podcaster for woman who are murdered by people they know. Her mother was one of those people and she does this for her and to help other woman see the red flags before something bad & terrible happens.
While warning other woman about the dangers she missed some red flags by someone in her own life.
The plot was gripping and beautifully written (love you Kelly) it had a strong start and a strong ending. This was a book with a plot that was realistic which is something i love in books.
While warning other woman about the dangers she missed some red flags by someone in her own life.
The plot was gripping and beautifully written (love you Kelly) it had a strong start and a strong ending. This was a book with a plot that was realistic which is something i love in books.
March 3, 2024
An intricate and continually shifting plot from one of my favorite authors.
Thank you NetGalley and @KelleyArmstrongAuthor for the ARC of this book.
Thank you NetGalley and @KelleyArmstrongAuthor for the ARC of this book.
June 20, 2024
The Prologue was soooo good , hooked me immediately I was in for the long haul .
Amy Gibson is a up and coming true crime podcaster and focuses on crimes against woman and she didn’t stumble into this career by accident…her mother was murdered 8 years ago .
Now with Amy’s Podcast Known to The Victim , life seems good. With the help from her step brother Oliver he brought her out of her depression and helped her get set up in a new place .
Then at about 30% things start to get interesting and Amy is caught in the middle of a potential crime and the accused is a family member.
Amy is faced with making decisions between what’s factual and false and is persuaded into adding this active crime case to her podcast , but will she get caught in the middle of the crossfires ??
How far would you go to protect the only family you have ?
My only wish is that there was actual podcast interviews for some more deeper discussions , instead of talk of Amy having a podcast and I felt at times the narrator lost us in her thoughts and had us all over the place , jumped around to much and threw the reader off .
I think fans of B.A. Paris , Shari Lapena, and Mary Kubica will enjoy this read !
Thank you NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada and K.L . Armstrong for this ARC!
Respectfully Another Read by Angie
Amy Gibson is a up and coming true crime podcaster and focuses on crimes against woman and she didn’t stumble into this career by accident…her mother was murdered 8 years ago .
Now with Amy’s Podcast Known to The Victim , life seems good. With the help from her step brother Oliver he brought her out of her depression and helped her get set up in a new place .
Then at about 30% things start to get interesting and Amy is caught in the middle of a potential crime and the accused is a family member.
Amy is faced with making decisions between what’s factual and false and is persuaded into adding this active crime case to her podcast , but will she get caught in the middle of the crossfires ??
How far would you go to protect the only family you have ?
My only wish is that there was actual podcast interviews for some more deeper discussions , instead of talk of Amy having a podcast and I felt at times the narrator lost us in her thoughts and had us all over the place , jumped around to much and threw the reader off .
I think fans of B.A. Paris , Shari Lapena, and Mary Kubica will enjoy this read !
Thank you NetGalley, Penguin Random House Canada and K.L . Armstrong for this ARC!
Respectfully Another Read by Angie
April 27, 2024
This was a good psychological thriller that's filled with twists and turns. The book follows Amy, who is a true crime podcaster. She starts the podcast after her mother is murdered by a man that she briefly dated. The podcast focuses on victims who have known their attackers and tries to help people see warning signs of abuse. But while she's been warning others, Amy has missed the warning signs about someone in her own life.
This book had me hooked from page one with its wonderful plot. It's fast-paced, but at times, I needed to step away from it because it made me feel incredibly anxious. At times, I just wanted to yell at Amy that she was being stupid, and I would get frustrated and put the book down. It ended up taking me almost two weeks to read it, and even though I enjoyed the book, I was kind of annoyed with the characters throughout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This book had me hooked from page one with its wonderful plot. It's fast-paced, but at times, I needed to step away from it because it made me feel incredibly anxious. At times, I just wanted to yell at Amy that she was being stupid, and I would get frustrated and put the book down. It ended up taking me almost two weeks to read it, and even though I enjoyed the book, I was kind of annoyed with the characters throughout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 1, 2025
4.5 stars
Such a well done thriller style mystery. The motives of everyone are questioned for one reason or another and in the best way. The premise is Amy's mother was murdered 8 years ago by a man she briefly dated. Afterwards Amy fell into a depression and was pulled out by her estranged half brother.
She goes on to make a podcast about those who are murdered or other violence by those they know. Particularly women who are attacked by their partners. Controlling behaviour and those little red flags are looked into. And how its rarely a person who looks like they could be a predator. Gaslighting, and emotional abuse are talked about here too. There are some very serious topics dealt with and done well here.
While she has been warning others of potential warning signs, has she missed them in her own life? Or is someone using this as a chance for blackmail or something darker?
Loved this book, love this author. Definitely recommend. Narrator did a great job.
Such a well done thriller style mystery. The motives of everyone are questioned for one reason or another and in the best way. The premise is Amy's mother was murdered 8 years ago by a man she briefly dated. Afterwards Amy fell into a depression and was pulled out by her estranged half brother.
She goes on to make a podcast about those who are murdered or other violence by those they know. Particularly women who are attacked by their partners. Controlling behaviour and those little red flags are looked into. And how its rarely a person who looks like they could be a predator. Gaslighting, and emotional abuse are talked about here too. There are some very serious topics dealt with and done well here.
While she has been warning others of potential warning signs, has she missed them in her own life? Or is someone using this as a chance for blackmail or something darker?
Loved this book, love this author. Definitely recommend. Narrator did a great job.
May 31, 2025
3.5
Kept me hooked. Armstrong was always a good writer under both names. I for some reason was not crazy on the main character but no biggie. It definitely held some surprises. Despite being "podcast story", the podcast took a major backseat in the story so it wasn't what I was thinking. There were many holes, though. Not enough is explained on the end reveal's reasoning and profile and why and who and how indepth. Also, there is a lot of confusion to me on one character that pops up and it seems flaky.
Kept me hooked. Armstrong was always a good writer under both names. I for some reason was not crazy on the main character but no biggie. It definitely held some surprises. Despite being "podcast story", the podcast took a major backseat in the story so it wasn't what I was thinking. There were many holes, though. Not enough is explained on the end reveal's reasoning and profile and why and who and how indepth. Also, there is a lot of confusion to me on one character that pops up and it seems flaky.
September 24, 2024
Amy's mother was murdered several years ago by a man she had casually dated. During this very dark time in her life, her half brother, Oliver, was her support. Fast forward to present day and Amy is a popular podcast host focusing on men who are charmers on the surface and dangerous once they have established a relationship with a woman. Amy's goal is to educate women on recognizing behaviours that are warning signs. Now Oliver is under scrutiny, how does she protect her brother and her livelihood?
This thriller kept me engaged and focused on the audiobook which is always a good sign. Twists and turns galore right to the end.
Kelley Armstrong has a storytelling style that works well for me. She writes across genres and is extremely prolific. I'm game to try anything by her (even though embarassingly I'm still working through her Otherworld series).
This thriller kept me engaged and focused on the audiobook which is always a good sign. Twists and turns galore right to the end.
Kelley Armstrong has a storytelling style that works well for me. She writes across genres and is extremely prolific. I'm game to try anything by her (even though embarassingly I'm still working through her Otherworld series).
July 7, 2024
I enjoyed Known to the Victim. I have been really into thrillers that have podcasts as part of the plot lately, and this one was a great addition to the others I have read with the same inclusion.
It was an easy and quick read with a few twists, but overall, the ending was pretty predictable considering everything was laid out to point to the way it ended...and then that's exactly what it was.
The twists in the middle made me feel like maybe the ending was going in a different direction, but it got back on the path it was already headed down quickly after.
It was a good read though and I liked it. I do wish there was more of the podcast included instead of just mentioning she had one. Maybe a script or letting us 'listen' to it a little.
It was a good insight into how the people closest to us can not be who we thought they were, as well as a look into gaslighting and control.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC.
It was an easy and quick read with a few twists, but overall, the ending was pretty predictable considering everything was laid out to point to the way it ended...and then that's exactly what it was.
The twists in the middle made me feel like maybe the ending was going in a different direction, but it got back on the path it was already headed down quickly after.
It was a good read though and I liked it. I do wish there was more of the podcast included instead of just mentioning she had one. Maybe a script or letting us 'listen' to it a little.
It was a good insight into how the people closest to us can not be who we thought they were, as well as a look into gaslighting and control.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2024
I really love Kelly Armstrong and not sure why the pseudonym. This is the first book by her that I am unimpressed by. I thought maybe it was an older book. The story itself is really good and the characters are great. I had issues with the repetition which could have been solved with better editing.
November 14, 2025
This one had me hooked by the end of the prologue. My first Armstrong read and I very much enjoyed the writing. I wouldn’t say it was super suspenseful or thrilling but the story was great nonetheless. Love a Canadian author and a KW cameo. GURL ALMOST HAD ME THINKING IT WAS DEAN FOR A SECOND THERE😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
OMG! What a Twisty, Turny, What-the-Hell-is-Happening book this turned out to be! I bow down to Ms KL Armstrong for this heart pounding psychological thriller! This what our Sister's Book Club first pick of the year (my sister's pick) and it did not disappoint! Five stars and a Bravo!
Amy Gibson's mother was murdered by a boyfriend 8 years ago. Amy was completely destroyed by her death and pulled away from everyone and everything around her--college, friends, family. Her half-brother, Oliver, who she hasn't seen in years finds her and saves her before she does something drastic and takes her to his place and gives her a safe place to grieve and heal. With his help, she does heal and 8 years later finds her hosting a popular podcast that focuses on violence against women committed by someone they knew.
Then the worst thing possible happens--her half-brother is accused of violence against his girlfriend --something that can't possibly be true! There's no way! Everything Amy believes in suddenly is called into question! Who can she trust? A nailbiter to the very end! And now I am sipping on a cup of tea to settle my nerves!
Amy Gibson's mother was murdered by a boyfriend 8 years ago. Amy was completely destroyed by her death and pulled away from everyone and everything around her--college, friends, family. Her half-brother, Oliver, who she hasn't seen in years finds her and saves her before she does something drastic and takes her to his place and gives her a safe place to grieve and heal. With his help, she does heal and 8 years later finds her hosting a popular podcast that focuses on violence against women committed by someone they knew.
Then the worst thing possible happens--her half-brother is accused of violence against his girlfriend --something that can't possibly be true! There's no way! Everything Amy believes in suddenly is called into question! Who can she trust? A nailbiter to the very end! And now I am sipping on a cup of tea to settle my nerves!
February 8, 2025
This was my pick for the first 2025 Sisters bookclub read, and what a great start to the year! While I love Kelley Armstrong's series sometimes you just want to read a standalone and her books written under K.L. Armstrong is perfect for those who want a great thriller with twists, and no cliffhangers! Amy has a podcast dedicated to women who have been victims of their partners. She tries to help them heal, something she couldn't do for her Mom. Her world is turned upside down when someone accuses her brother of the same crime. Amy is desperate to prove her brother Oliver is innocent. With the help of a grumpy private investigator she tries to unravel the mystery, but will she be able to tell the truths from lies?
I really enjoyed the relationship Amy has with Dean. While there is some chemistry between them, this is not a romantic suspense. And after saying I love the fact it's a standalone, I would really love to see these characters again!
I really enjoyed the relationship Amy has with Dean. While there is some chemistry between them, this is not a romantic suspense. And after saying I love the fact it's a standalone, I would really love to see these characters again!
August 8, 2024
When Amy Gibson's mother is brutally murdered by her boyfriend. Amy's world is turned completely upside down. Overcome with all her emotions, she withdraws from everything in her life, school, friends. Then comes her estranged half - brother, Oliver who comes to save her.
8 years later she has picked herself back up and worked hard for the life that she has. She hosts a popular true crime podcast that focuses on crimes against women committed by their partners, and they are trying to the purpose and healing through helping the women in way she couldn't help her mom. Something else happens though Oliver is accused of something by one of his own girlfriends. Him being the only family that she has, she set's out to prove that her brother is innocent. However days pass and other things about her brother come to light. Will she b able to save her brother from these accusations or will her world crumble all over again.
Thank you to Goodreads for choosing me as a winner for this giveaway I greatly appreciate it.
I did not know that Kelley Armstrong had another name that she wrote books under, so when I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway I did some research was pleasantly surprised. Everyone knows that I am a big fan of Kelley Armstrong and her books that she writes. I have now bought some of her other books under this name. I also love that Kelley Armstrong is a Canadian author.
I did enjoy this book and how she wrote it and how it flowed, her mystery books have always been my favourite because they are just so good. This book is filled with twists and turns and I enjoyed that very much. I felt like she was a little blind to her brother doing some of this stuff, but she was also going through a hard time with losing her mother and everything that happened to her during that time. Also can we take about Castillo oh my god did the man sound gorgeous. I also just really loved his character and how he brought her food, that he cared for her without letting her know that he cared. I love how the author throw little hints of romance in the book. This book was a little predictable, but it was still good. I honestly kind if figured it out near the beginning of the book. I still enjoyed this read none the less. The great thing about this book was how fast paced it was I love books that are fast paced and you can get through so easily. I can't wait to read more of her books and get through some of the series that she has put out their, I have been collecting and reading her books I think for the past year now. The characters and the storyline really hook you into this story and everything just flows together really well.
I have many other books to read from her on my TBR and I can't wait. She is also coming out with a short little novella in December I think it's part of the series called "A Rip Through Time" the novella is called "Schemes and Scandals." I am very excited because so far it has been one of my favourite series she has written also the Rockton series has also been one of my favourite series. Can't wait to read more!!!!
8 years later she has picked herself back up and worked hard for the life that she has. She hosts a popular true crime podcast that focuses on crimes against women committed by their partners, and they are trying to the purpose and healing through helping the women in way she couldn't help her mom. Something else happens though Oliver is accused of something by one of his own girlfriends. Him being the only family that she has, she set's out to prove that her brother is innocent. However days pass and other things about her brother come to light. Will she b able to save her brother from these accusations or will her world crumble all over again.
Thank you to Goodreads for choosing me as a winner for this giveaway I greatly appreciate it.
I did not know that Kelley Armstrong had another name that she wrote books under, so when I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway I did some research was pleasantly surprised. Everyone knows that I am a big fan of Kelley Armstrong and her books that she writes. I have now bought some of her other books under this name. I also love that Kelley Armstrong is a Canadian author.
I did enjoy this book and how she wrote it and how it flowed, her mystery books have always been my favourite because they are just so good. This book is filled with twists and turns and I enjoyed that very much. I felt like she was a little blind to her brother doing some of this stuff, but she was also going through a hard time with losing her mother and everything that happened to her during that time. Also can we take about Castillo oh my god did the man sound gorgeous. I also just really loved his character and how he brought her food, that he cared for her without letting her know that he cared. I love how the author throw little hints of romance in the book. This book was a little predictable, but it was still good. I honestly kind if figured it out near the beginning of the book. I still enjoyed this read none the less. The great thing about this book was how fast paced it was I love books that are fast paced and you can get through so easily. I can't wait to read more of her books and get through some of the series that she has put out their, I have been collecting and reading her books I think for the past year now. The characters and the storyline really hook you into this story and everything just flows together really well.
I have many other books to read from her on my TBR and I can't wait. She is also coming out with a short little novella in December I think it's part of the series called "A Rip Through Time" the novella is called "Schemes and Scandals." I am very excited because so far it has been one of my favourite series she has written also the Rockton series has also been one of my favourite series. Can't wait to read more!!!!
April 24, 2025
What a great read! A true thriller!
January 17, 2025
UGH Kelley, my girl, what is going on?? I always love her stuff, but this thriller is a 2.5 star read at best and I'm giving it 3 because I'm a KA stan, ok??
This book started off really strong with Amy Gibson's backstory of her mother getting abducted/murdered in broad daylight by an ex that couldn't take no for an answer, so then she starts her own podcast to try to help women see signs/red flags to help prevent others from dealing with controlling/murderous partners. But then about half way thru this book, the wheels come totally off. There are twists in the middle that weren't that shocking, then the ending the bad guy turns out who you assumed it to be all along, and his reasons for doing all these things?? I have no f*cking idea. The ending was super rushed. If I could rewrite this book from the 40% mark with Kelley I think we could have made it better LMAO
This book started off really strong with Amy Gibson's backstory of her mother getting abducted/murdered in broad daylight by an ex that couldn't take no for an answer, so then she starts her own podcast to try to help women see signs/red flags to help prevent others from dealing with controlling/murderous partners. But then about half way thru this book, the wheels come totally off. There are twists in the middle that weren't that shocking, then the ending the bad guy turns out who you assumed it to be all along, and his reasons for doing all these things?? I have no f*cking idea. The ending was super rushed. If I could rewrite this book from the 40% mark with Kelley I think we could have made it better LMAO
January 29, 2024
I thought I had this plot figured out early on. Boy, was I wrong. I won't go in-depth on the story because I don't want to risk revealing any spoilers. Here's what I will say: Known to the Victim is so packed with twists, unreliable characters, and suspense that readers are going to be flying through it as fast as they can. I know I was.
K.L. Armstrong wrote in one of my favorite narrative styles — a first-person armchair detective of sorts, unraveling in the mystery in one timeline. This really allowed me to put myself in Amy's shoes, solving the mystery alongside her. It was incredibly effective, as I felt completely immersed in the storyline.
K.L. Armstrong wrote in one of my favorite narrative styles — a first-person armchair detective of sorts, unraveling in the mystery in one timeline. This really allowed me to put myself in Amy's shoes, solving the mystery alongside her. It was incredibly effective, as I felt completely immersed in the storyline.
June 30, 2024
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
I am so behind on my Kelley Armstrong books that when I got an opportunity to review her latest thriller, Known to the Victim, written as K.L. Armstrong, I jumped at the chance! Kelley has been one of my favorite authors since nearly day 1 and I've loved just about everything she's written, and that has been a lot! I swear she must not sleep because she keeps decking out all the books every year and I am forever behind! But it was nice to be able to pickup one of her standalones and get some enjoyment out of it without worrying about series information for later.
This was a decidedly spooky thriller, in the very realistic way that thrillers can be utterly terrifying. When Amy was a sophomore in college, her mother was murdered. Not by accident, not by some random mugging or serial killer rampage, but by someone she knew. Her mother was murdered by a man she had just started dating and if that's not enough to terrify any young single woman, I don't know what will. It had a huge impact on Amy's life, naturally. So much so that she changed her major and started a blog that turned into a podcast that looked into similar situations to her mother's. How sometimes a woman gets murdered by the person she was closest to and what signs might have been missed. She does it as a sort of tribute to her mother, and to help educate other young woman.
When Amy is doing a live, in-person presentation about her podcast, she is confronted by an audience member who accuses her brother do unspeakable things. Things that Amy talks about in her podcasts with other dangerous predators. Amy is sideswiped by this information, but handles it as professionally as possible, but yet she reaches out to her brother to give him the heads up, but is unable to reach him.
Then the unthinkable happens, the (half) brother who helped get her out of her depression after her mother's death and who was always there for her, has been accused of attempted murder. When her brother, Oliver's girlfriend is shot, she was convinced that it was Oliver who did it and Oliver is taken into custody and so, Amy is determined to prove his innocence. She has a PI friend she's used for help with her podcasts, but when she's out of town on another case, she's left with the partner, Dean Castillo. She and Dean have had what you can call a prickly business relationship but he's willing to help her out for a price...he is running a business after all.
Soon Amy and Dean are deep into the investigation about Oliver and his past relationships, because they are naturally brought up. Amy starts to see disturbing patterns and signs that she clearly missed over the years and not everything is adding up to what she thought she always knew. And the plot only thickens from there!
This book, was so twisty and so mysterious that I just ate up the pages. While I did have a busy weekend, I ended up finishing it long before Monday arrived and I honestly was not expecting that! Armstrong has always known how to draw her reader in, no matter the genre, and that only continues to remain true with this reader. What started out as simple facts and questions, I soon got so caught up into all the secrets and possible lies popping up and chance encounters that I just kept reading and reading and then I realized I finished it! It was simply unputdownable! It's a mystery so intricately woven that I was mesmerized and had to know all the answers, I was starting to make my own speculations and most of them proved to be right, so it was good to know I was on the right track!
What made this book feel even a little scarier is how realistic it felt. You think you meet the perfect guy and then little things start happening and then they get bigger, and then they get scarier. I really related to Amy and all her cautious traits, as I can be a bit paranoid and overly cautious myself. I appreciated how seriously Amy took things like that.
The working relationship between Amy and Dean was a delight! Dean comes off as this prickly grump, and while I wouldn't call Amy, Little Miss Sunshine, for that Grumpy/Sunshine vibe, they did like to butt heads more often than not. But this case kind of forced to them to work together and get a better understanding of one another. There are things to be worked out to between these two and all that comes to light as well. This is not a romantic suspense book, so don't worry about that if that's not your thing. There's very little romance between these two other than seeing them bond friendly together with the hint or spark of something maybe being there.
The ending was pretty much how I predicted it, but the whys of it all were another matter. I don't feel like I got the answer I anticipated, but at the same time, I didn't think we could ever really know the whys. Like with most mysteries, sometimes that will forever be the question. So I wasn't disappointed with that. The characters were what really kept me going! I enjoyed Amy and Dean so much! They had a nice camaraderie going. And even some of the other characters, namely suspects or persons of interest were well written too for the parts that they played.
Needless to say, Known to the Victim kept me on my toes and turning the pages! It was the literal definition of pageturner as I was desperate to know what was going to happen next and I would not be satisfied until I reached the end, which was in itself, very satisfying! Armstrong has once again bespelled me with her magical words even if the story involved no magic whatsoever. She pretty much has a fan for life out of me! If you're a fan of heart-racing thrillers with twisty secrets, then this is the read for you!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
I am so behind on my Kelley Armstrong books that when I got an opportunity to review her latest thriller, Known to the Victim, written as K.L. Armstrong, I jumped at the chance! Kelley has been one of my favorite authors since nearly day 1 and I've loved just about everything she's written, and that has been a lot! I swear she must not sleep because she keeps decking out all the books every year and I am forever behind! But it was nice to be able to pickup one of her standalones and get some enjoyment out of it without worrying about series information for later.
This was a decidedly spooky thriller, in the very realistic way that thrillers can be utterly terrifying. When Amy was a sophomore in college, her mother was murdered. Not by accident, not by some random mugging or serial killer rampage, but by someone she knew. Her mother was murdered by a man she had just started dating and if that's not enough to terrify any young single woman, I don't know what will. It had a huge impact on Amy's life, naturally. So much so that she changed her major and started a blog that turned into a podcast that looked into similar situations to her mother's. How sometimes a woman gets murdered by the person she was closest to and what signs might have been missed. She does it as a sort of tribute to her mother, and to help educate other young woman.
When Amy is doing a live, in-person presentation about her podcast, she is confronted by an audience member who accuses her brother do unspeakable things. Things that Amy talks about in her podcasts with other dangerous predators. Amy is sideswiped by this information, but handles it as professionally as possible, but yet she reaches out to her brother to give him the heads up, but is unable to reach him.
Then the unthinkable happens, the (half) brother who helped get her out of her depression after her mother's death and who was always there for her, has been accused of attempted murder. When her brother, Oliver's girlfriend is shot, she was convinced that it was Oliver who did it and Oliver is taken into custody and so, Amy is determined to prove his innocence. She has a PI friend she's used for help with her podcasts, but when she's out of town on another case, she's left with the partner, Dean Castillo. She and Dean have had what you can call a prickly business relationship but he's willing to help her out for a price...he is running a business after all.
Soon Amy and Dean are deep into the investigation about Oliver and his past relationships, because they are naturally brought up. Amy starts to see disturbing patterns and signs that she clearly missed over the years and not everything is adding up to what she thought she always knew. And the plot only thickens from there!
This book, was so twisty and so mysterious that I just ate up the pages. While I did have a busy weekend, I ended up finishing it long before Monday arrived and I honestly was not expecting that! Armstrong has always known how to draw her reader in, no matter the genre, and that only continues to remain true with this reader. What started out as simple facts and questions, I soon got so caught up into all the secrets and possible lies popping up and chance encounters that I just kept reading and reading and then I realized I finished it! It was simply unputdownable! It's a mystery so intricately woven that I was mesmerized and had to know all the answers, I was starting to make my own speculations and most of them proved to be right, so it was good to know I was on the right track!
What made this book feel even a little scarier is how realistic it felt. You think you meet the perfect guy and then little things start happening and then they get bigger, and then they get scarier. I really related to Amy and all her cautious traits, as I can be a bit paranoid and overly cautious myself. I appreciated how seriously Amy took things like that.
The working relationship between Amy and Dean was a delight! Dean comes off as this prickly grump, and while I wouldn't call Amy, Little Miss Sunshine, for that Grumpy/Sunshine vibe, they did like to butt heads more often than not. But this case kind of forced to them to work together and get a better understanding of one another. There are things to be worked out to between these two and all that comes to light as well. This is not a romantic suspense book, so don't worry about that if that's not your thing. There's very little romance between these two other than seeing them bond friendly together with the hint or spark of something maybe being there.
The ending was pretty much how I predicted it, but the whys of it all were another matter. I don't feel like I got the answer I anticipated, but at the same time, I didn't think we could ever really know the whys. Like with most mysteries, sometimes that will forever be the question. So I wasn't disappointed with that. The characters were what really kept me going! I enjoyed Amy and Dean so much! They had a nice camaraderie going. And even some of the other characters, namely suspects or persons of interest were well written too for the parts that they played.
Needless to say, Known to the Victim kept me on my toes and turning the pages! It was the literal definition of pageturner as I was desperate to know what was going to happen next and I would not be satisfied until I reached the end, which was in itself, very satisfying! Armstrong has once again bespelled me with her magical words even if the story involved no magic whatsoever. She pretty much has a fan for life out of me! If you're a fan of heart-racing thrillers with twisty secrets, then this is the read for you!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
August 29, 2024
4.5/5
What an incredibly engaging thriller that took me by surprise with every twist!
Known to the Victim was such an exciting mystery-thriller set in Canada about Amy Gibson, who, after the murder of her mother, starts a successful podcast on detecting warning signs and red flags of being in a controlling and potentially dangerous relationship. Afterall, most crimes against women are committed by their sexual partners, as evidenced by the murder of Amy's mother at the hands of a jilted lover.
As Amy was grieving for the loss of her mother, she reconnected with her long lost half-brother, Oliver who helped her get back on her feet. 8 years later, Amy is thriving - she has her podcast, is working on her PhD, and she has a great relationship with the only family that she has left (her brother).
But when her brother was suddenly being accused of having murdered his late wife and for assaulting his current girlfriend, Amy starts questioning everything that she knew about her brother. She is certain that her brother is innocent and would never be capable of harming these women but blindly supporting her brother would make her a hypocrite and would go against everything that she's been preaching in her podcast.
And so, with the help of a private investigator, Dean Castillo, Amy starts investigating the matter herself.
This book had so many unexpected and wild twists that left me shocked and thoroughly entertained. Although this wasn't a thriller romance, I couldn't help but keep rooting for Amy and Castillo to get together - I loved their grumpy vs sunshine dynamic and wouldn't have minded if this book took a more romantic turn.
Audiobook Comments:
The audiobook narration by AJ Bridel was great. I listened to the audiobook at x1.45 speed.
_______________________________
If you like the following, then you might enjoy Known to the Victim or vice-versa:
What an incredibly engaging thriller that took me by surprise with every twist!
Known to the Victim was such an exciting mystery-thriller set in Canada about Amy Gibson, who, after the murder of her mother, starts a successful podcast on detecting warning signs and red flags of being in a controlling and potentially dangerous relationship. Afterall, most crimes against women are committed by their sexual partners, as evidenced by the murder of Amy's mother at the hands of a jilted lover.
As Amy was grieving for the loss of her mother, she reconnected with her long lost half-brother, Oliver who helped her get back on her feet. 8 years later, Amy is thriving - she has her podcast, is working on her PhD, and she has a great relationship with the only family that she has left (her brother).
But when her brother was suddenly being accused of having murdered his late wife and for assaulting his current girlfriend, Amy starts questioning everything that she knew about her brother. She is certain that her brother is innocent and would never be capable of harming these women but blindly supporting her brother would make her a hypocrite and would go against everything that she's been preaching in her podcast.
And so, with the help of a private investigator, Dean Castillo, Amy starts investigating the matter herself.
This book had so many unexpected and wild twists that left me shocked and thoroughly entertained. Although this wasn't a thriller romance, I couldn't help but keep rooting for Amy and Castillo to get together - I loved their grumpy vs sunshine dynamic and wouldn't have minded if this book took a more romantic turn.
Audiobook Comments:
The audiobook narration by AJ Bridel was great. I listened to the audiobook at x1.45 speed.
_______________________________
If you like the following, then you might enjoy Known to the Victim or vice-versa:
June 23, 2024
I really, really enjoyed reading this. At first I found the writing style a bit wordy and heavy on exposition, but once I got into it, I was hooked. The plot is quite bonkers – there’s a lot of twists and turns and it gets quite complicated but it was very exhilarating.
So much was going on – a lot happens, but it’s well-plotted and well-paced. The plot itself doesn’t always hold up to scrutiny – there were some plot threads I felt were under-explained – but as a first-time read, I barely noticed. It was exactly what I want from a thriller of this kind – exciting and full of twists, with a cute romance on the side. The relationship between Amy and Dean was a lot of fun – the dynamic between them is really entertaining with his grumpiness and her stubbornness, and was a really nice edition to the book (it’s barely there though – don’t get into this thinking it’s a romance because it really isn’t!)
Overall, it was a real thrill of a read. I read most of the last half of the book with a big grin on my face as the mystery unfolded, and it kept me surprised even at the end. It’s a very entertaining thriller – very pacy and so, so fun to read. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book.
Content Notes:
Warnings:
So much was going on – a lot happens, but it’s well-plotted and well-paced. The plot itself doesn’t always hold up to scrutiny – there were some plot threads I felt were under-explained – but as a first-time read, I barely noticed. It was exactly what I want from a thriller of this kind – exciting and full of twists, with a cute romance on the side. The relationship between Amy and Dean was a lot of fun – the dynamic between them is really entertaining with his grumpiness and her stubbornness, and was a really nice edition to the book (it’s barely there though – don’t get into this thinking it’s a romance because it really isn’t!)
Overall, it was a real thrill of a read. I read most of the last half of the book with a big grin on my face as the mystery unfolded, and it kept me surprised even at the end. It’s a very entertaining thriller – very pacy and so, so fun to read. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free copy of this book.
Content Notes:
Warnings:
July 28, 2024
After Amy Gibson’s mother is brutally murdered at the hands of her boyfriend, Amy sinks into a deep depression. It is only with the help and support of her estranged half-brother, Oliver, that she picks herself back up. As she attempts to move on, she is inspired to start a podcast that focuses on crimes against women committed by their partners. But then Oliver is accused of a horrible crime. She is desperate to prove his innocence, but soon starts to wonder if the allegations could be true.
If you’re like me and a little tired of the “podcaster helps solve a crime” plot, please don’t write this one off. I was a little nervous going into it, but Amy being a podcaster is used more for backstory information rather than the whole plot itself. We don’t copious amounts of her podcast content, and I appreciated the change.
Since this author is new to me, I didn’t go in with any specific expectations, but I quickly found myself glued to the pages. The pacing was perfect, the twists were fun, and the Canadian setting was an enjoyable added bonus. I really went back and forth about what I thought happened and constantly second-guessed myself. Known to the Victim was a quick but solid mystery/thriller, and I will definitely be seeking out K.L. Armstrong’s books again. I’d also love to see Amy return for a second book, although her story does feel complete here.
Thank you so much to Penguin Random House Canada/Double Day Canada for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
If you’re like me and a little tired of the “podcaster helps solve a crime” plot, please don’t write this one off. I was a little nervous going into it, but Amy being a podcaster is used more for backstory information rather than the whole plot itself. We don’t copious amounts of her podcast content, and I appreciated the change.
Since this author is new to me, I didn’t go in with any specific expectations, but I quickly found myself glued to the pages. The pacing was perfect, the twists were fun, and the Canadian setting was an enjoyable added bonus. I really went back and forth about what I thought happened and constantly second-guessed myself. Known to the Victim was a quick but solid mystery/thriller, and I will definitely be seeking out K.L. Armstrong’s books again. I’d also love to see Amy return for a second book, although her story does feel complete here.
Thank you so much to Penguin Random House Canada/Double Day Canada for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2024
This was not my first book by this Author I’ve read and it will definitely not be my last! This book was exactly what I needed and the perfect fast paced, page turning thriller I couldn’t put down!!
Amy who now has her own podcast about educating women about the signs that sometimes are glanced over that show they are in a toxic controlling relationship. She started this podcast and career after her Mother was murdered by an obsessed partner. Little did she know how this podcast and the events of the murder would lead to unraveling her current situation….. did her half brother, Oliver, really attempt to kill his girlfriend?? The same Oliver who when her Mom died was the only person there for her and drug her out of her depression and helped her not only start her life again, but continue to be a strong and supportive sibling. Was this some kind of sick joke? Was her brother being framed? Or was he truly one of the incredibly toxic and dangerous men she talked about on her podcast and she missed ALL the signs ??
I read this book in one day!! This was the definition of a compulsive, suspenseful, twisted thriller that kept me guessing.. and guessing. Suddenly the all the characters seem unreliable, suspicious, and I didn’t know who to believe or what direction to look. It was full of misdirection that kept me immersed from beginning to end. Just jump into this book and enjoy the ride!!
Thank you to the Author, Netgalley, and Penguin Random House Canada for the ARC!!
Amy who now has her own podcast about educating women about the signs that sometimes are glanced over that show they are in a toxic controlling relationship. She started this podcast and career after her Mother was murdered by an obsessed partner. Little did she know how this podcast and the events of the murder would lead to unraveling her current situation….. did her half brother, Oliver, really attempt to kill his girlfriend?? The same Oliver who when her Mom died was the only person there for her and drug her out of her depression and helped her not only start her life again, but continue to be a strong and supportive sibling. Was this some kind of sick joke? Was her brother being framed? Or was he truly one of the incredibly toxic and dangerous men she talked about on her podcast and she missed ALL the signs ??
I read this book in one day!! This was the definition of a compulsive, suspenseful, twisted thriller that kept me guessing.. and guessing. Suddenly the all the characters seem unreliable, suspicious, and I didn’t know who to believe or what direction to look. It was full of misdirection that kept me immersed from beginning to end. Just jump into this book and enjoy the ride!!
Thank you to the Author, Netgalley, and Penguin Random House Canada for the ARC!!
April 14, 2024
Known to the Victim - K.L. Armstrong. Coming June 2024, this is a Perfectly Fine Thriller (PFT ™️) which I expect will perform nicely with a summer release. All in all, this book had some reasonable twists and characters that were generally easy to buy into. The storyline is a particularly interesting one given the sheer volume of internet sleuthing that follows on the heels of every major or mass market crime in this day and age, and the author does a nice job balancing the delivery of her clearly defined message with keeping the story entertaining.
Good:
- Armstrong’s prose is excellent and her dialogue generally reads like real life
- The storyline is highly realistic
- Twists are plentiful and pretty good. Not great but good.
Not good:
- Couple of pretty big plot holes that don’t make much sense. Main antagonist’s motivation is sus at best.
- Dialogue, while realistic, sometimes tiptoes into overly sensitive behavior by the main characters which makes those portions slightly cringy.
This is a good beach book and a fast read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5. Thanks to the author, netgalley, and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#PFT #books #bookreview #booktok #bookstagram #whatareyoureading #bookrecommendations #arc #thriller #beachreads #goodreads
Good:
- Armstrong’s prose is excellent and her dialogue generally reads like real life
- The storyline is highly realistic
- Twists are plentiful and pretty good. Not great but good.
Not good:
- Couple of pretty big plot holes that don’t make much sense. Main antagonist’s motivation is sus at best.
- Dialogue, while realistic, sometimes tiptoes into overly sensitive behavior by the main characters which makes those portions slightly cringy.
This is a good beach book and a fast read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5. Thanks to the author, netgalley, and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#PFT #books #bookreview #booktok #bookstagram #whatareyoureading #bookrecommendations #arc #thriller #beachreads #goodreads
June 17, 2024
My first book by the author under this name…and it probably won’t be the last. Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this prior to publication.
Amy Gibson runs a true crime podcast. She began it as a way of coming to terms with the murder of her lawyer mother at the hands of a partner. However, it soon becomes suggested that someone close to Amy might be hiding their own secrets.
Amy has always looked up to her half-brother, Owen, once they’d reconnected following her mother’s murder. When he is questioned by the police about the suspicious death of his ex wife, and then implicated in an attack on his current girlfriend it’s hard to know who to believe.
Amy continues to investigate, even at risk to her own safety. As things continue Amy herself is placed in an incredibly difficult situation, and I could not wait to get to the end and work out exactly what was going on.
Amy Gibson runs a true crime podcast. She began it as a way of coming to terms with the murder of her lawyer mother at the hands of a partner. However, it soon becomes suggested that someone close to Amy might be hiding their own secrets.
Amy has always looked up to her half-brother, Owen, once they’d reconnected following her mother’s murder. When he is questioned by the police about the suspicious death of his ex wife, and then implicated in an attack on his current girlfriend it’s hard to know who to believe.
Amy continues to investigate, even at risk to her own safety. As things continue Amy herself is placed in an incredibly difficult situation, and I could not wait to get to the end and work out exactly what was going on.
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