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Such a Strange Little Girl
She was always such a strange little girl. 👩🏼
Everyone said it. Everyone believed it. And everyone knew she was the one to fear.
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable - two girls bound by secrets, dares, and the kind of friendship that cuts deeper than blood. Until the day everything shattered. And when it did, it was easy to point the finger at the strange little girl who never quite fit, who always watched too closely.
Years later, Blake’s life is collapsing, and the only way to fix it is to confront the past she’s tried so hard to forget. She forces herself to reach out to Lucy in a letter, a first step toward redemption.
But as Blake begins to write, unsettling memories surface. Shadows she thought she’d buried twist into new shapes. And she starts to wonder:
What if the strange little girl didn’t stay little?
What if she learned to be dangerous?
And what if Lucy has been waiting—patiently, silently—for Blake to contact her… all along?
A dark and gripping thriller perfect for fans of Frieda McFadden and Riley Sager
Everyone said it. Everyone believed it. And everyone knew she was the one to fear.
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable - two girls bound by secrets, dares, and the kind of friendship that cuts deeper than blood. Until the day everything shattered. And when it did, it was easy to point the finger at the strange little girl who never quite fit, who always watched too closely.
Years later, Blake’s life is collapsing, and the only way to fix it is to confront the past she’s tried so hard to forget. She forces herself to reach out to Lucy in a letter, a first step toward redemption.
But as Blake begins to write, unsettling memories surface. Shadows she thought she’d buried twist into new shapes. And she starts to wonder:
What if the strange little girl didn’t stay little?
What if she learned to be dangerous?
And what if Lucy has been waiting—patiently, silently—for Blake to contact her… all along?
A dark and gripping thriller perfect for fans of Frieda McFadden and Riley Sager
- GenresThriller
Audio CD
Published March 14, 2026
About the author
J.A. Baker
21 books352 followersJ. A. Baker was born and brought up in the North East of England.
When she's not writing and thinking up new and inventive ways of killing off her fictional characters, or looking after her young grandchildren, she can be found pottering around her garden with her madcap dog, Theo or in a coffee shop eating cake with her long suffering husband.
When she's not writing and thinking up new and inventive ways of killing off her fictional characters, or looking after her young grandchildren, she can be found pottering around her garden with her madcap dog, Theo or in a coffee shop eating cake with her long suffering husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 16, 2026
Everyone seems to have that one child from their childhood that everyone considered, "strange." Thinking about it now, I have to wonder if that child was truly strange or was it just our perception? In Such a Strange Little Girl by JA Baker, it's an interesting take on the 'us vs. them' mentality.
The storyline was interesting, and it kept me interested. I love to read about childhood friendships, especially toxic ones, and this was definitely a different take on it. The dual timelines built up the suspense, for sure.
My main problem (and it's personal), is that I can't stand reading letters in a book. I have no idea why, but I find it boring. This is why I trudged through the first half of the book. I kept reading because it has great reviews. The second half was definitely better.
I wish I had liked the book better because I enjoy books by Baker. Don't let my review stop you, though. If you like psychological thrillers, and you don't mind reading letters in a book, then you will probably enjoy this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and JA Baker for my free copy. This is my honest review.
The storyline was interesting, and it kept me interested. I love to read about childhood friendships, especially toxic ones, and this was definitely a different take on it. The dual timelines built up the suspense, for sure.
My main problem (and it's personal), is that I can't stand reading letters in a book. I have no idea why, but I find it boring. This is why I trudged through the first half of the book. I kept reading because it has great reviews. The second half was definitely better.
I wish I had liked the book better because I enjoy books by Baker. Don't let my review stop you, though. If you like psychological thrillers, and you don't mind reading letters in a book, then you will probably enjoy this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and JA Baker for my free copy. This is my honest review.
March 11, 2026
I enjoyed the storyline and A dark and gripping thriller perfect for fans of Frieda McFadden and Riley Sager!
It dark and twist. Everyone said it. Everyone believed it. And everyone knew she was the one to fear.
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable - two girls bound by secrets, dares, and the kind of friendship that cuts deeper than blood. Until the day everything shattered. And when it did, it was easy to point the finger at the strange little girl who never quite fit, who always watched too closely.
It dark and twist. Everyone said it. Everyone believed it. And everyone knew she was the one to fear.
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable - two girls bound by secrets, dares, and the kind of friendship that cuts deeper than blood. Until the day everything shattered. And when it did, it was easy to point the finger at the strange little girl who never quite fit, who always watched too closely.
April 26, 2026
I throughly enjoyed this one. I finished it in 2 days.
April 21, 2026
Did not really enjoy this one.
March 17, 2026
REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
STORYLINE :
I actually picked this book because I thought it was a crime thriller. In the synopsis promised something tantalising. I got something tantalising but different from the synopsis (that's the best way to explain it).
However, I really liked the pace of the book, the mystery of not knowing who was whom was really nice and kept me guessing. I also liked the mystery surrounding who did what. It was okay. I didn't like the last few chapters, though.
CHARACTERS:
The characters were morally grey, some more than others, at least, the ones with their POVs. But, I liked the representation of mental health in them. It was real and raw.
WRITING STYLE:
It was okay and catching. I have no problem with it.
SETTINGS:
I didn't like it, and I didn't really get an image. At first, it was because the author didn't outwardly reveal some of the scenes to keep them mysterious. Most importantly, it was because the years the book was set were ambiguous.
OVERALL:
The book was okay, and I had no trouble reading it. Unfortunately, I didn't see the point when I finished. I felt the FMC was still unrepetant, and she was confusing. Sometimes, she wants to change. Other time, she's busy doing what she promised she won't do again.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
STORYLINE :
I actually picked this book because I thought it was a crime thriller. In the synopsis promised something tantalising. I got something tantalising but different from the synopsis (that's the best way to explain it).
However, I really liked the pace of the book, the mystery of not knowing who was whom was really nice and kept me guessing. I also liked the mystery surrounding who did what. It was okay. I didn't like the last few chapters, though.
CHARACTERS:
The characters were morally grey, some more than others, at least, the ones with their POVs. But, I liked the representation of mental health in them. It was real and raw.
WRITING STYLE:
It was okay and catching. I have no problem with it.
SETTINGS:
I didn't like it, and I didn't really get an image. At first, it was because the author didn't outwardly reveal some of the scenes to keep them mysterious. Most importantly, it was because the years the book was set were ambiguous.
OVERALL:
The book was okay, and I had no trouble reading it. Unfortunately, I didn't see the point when I finished. I felt the FMC was still unrepetant, and she was confusing. Sometimes, she wants to change. Other time, she's busy doing what she promised she won't do again.
March 10, 2026
I found I read this book pretty quickly, but I can’t say I particularly enjoyed it. The plot didn’t really grab me as the synopsis eluded to and vast sections just isn’t pique my interest and I didn’t find it as dark and gripping as it was billed. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the chance to review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Such a Strange Little Girl is a dark, quietly unnerving psychological thriller that leans into the shadows of childhood memory and the dangerous elasticity of the stories we tell ourselves. From the first page, there’s a sense of something unsettled beneath the surface—an old friendship fractured, a reputation that never quite healed, and a girl everyone whispered about long before she had the chance to grow up.
Blake and Lucy’s bond is the heart of the novel: intense, secretive, and shaped by the kind of dares and loyalties that feel unbreakable when you’re young. When everything fell apart, it was easy for the blame to land on Lucy—the strange one, the watcher, the girl who never fit. Years later, Blake’s life is slipping through her fingers, and reaching out to Lucy feels like the only way to make sense of the past. But the moment she begins writing that letter, the atmosphere shifts. Memories warp, shadows lengthen, and the truth becomes harder to grasp.
The tension builds beautifully through Blake’s unraveling recollections. Each chapter feels like peeling back another layer of a story she’s spent years trying not to remember. The question that lingers—what if the strange little girl didn’t stay little?—gives the book a deliciously creeping dread. Lucy’s presence, whether real or imagined, hovers over every page, and the possibility that she’s been waiting all this time adds a sharp, unsettling edge.
What makes the novel so effective is its restraint. It doesn’t rely on shock for shock’s sake; instead, it lets paranoia seep in slowly, blurring the line between guilt, fear, and reality. The result is a thriller that feels intimate and claustrophobic, driven by character rather than spectacle, and all the more chilling for it.
A gripping, atmospheric read perfect for fans of psychological suspense that digs into the darker corners of friendship, memory, and the ghosts we carry with us.
With thanks to JA Baker, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Blake and Lucy’s bond is the heart of the novel: intense, secretive, and shaped by the kind of dares and loyalties that feel unbreakable when you’re young. When everything fell apart, it was easy for the blame to land on Lucy—the strange one, the watcher, the girl who never fit. Years later, Blake’s life is slipping through her fingers, and reaching out to Lucy feels like the only way to make sense of the past. But the moment she begins writing that letter, the atmosphere shifts. Memories warp, shadows lengthen, and the truth becomes harder to grasp.
The tension builds beautifully through Blake’s unraveling recollections. Each chapter feels like peeling back another layer of a story she’s spent years trying not to remember. The question that lingers—what if the strange little girl didn’t stay little?—gives the book a deliciously creeping dread. Lucy’s presence, whether real or imagined, hovers over every page, and the possibility that she’s been waiting all this time adds a sharp, unsettling edge.
What makes the novel so effective is its restraint. It doesn’t rely on shock for shock’s sake; instead, it lets paranoia seep in slowly, blurring the line between guilt, fear, and reality. The result is a thriller that feels intimate and claustrophobic, driven by character rather than spectacle, and all the more chilling for it.
A gripping, atmospheric read perfect for fans of psychological suspense that digs into the darker corners of friendship, memory, and the ghosts we carry with us.
With thanks to JA Baker, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review: Such a Strange Little Girl by J. A. Baker
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
I am absolutely reeling after finishing this. J. A. Baker has a way of tapping into those childhood friendships that feel more like a fever dream than a memory, and Such a Strange Little Girl is her darkest, most gripping work yet.
The story follows Blake and Lucy, two girls whose bond was forged in secrets and dares—the kind of intense, borderline-obsessive friendship that you just know is going to end in a wreck. When their world shattered years ago, it was easy for everyone to blame the "strange" one. But now that Blake is trying to reach out and make amends, she realizes that some shadows don't stay buried; they just grow taller.
Why this book hooked me:
• The Unsettling Nostalgia: The way the author weaves together the past and the present is seamless. It perfectly captures that skin-crawling feeling of realizing your childhood memories might be total lies.
• The Concept of "Strangeness": I loved the exploration of how labels stick to children. Was Lucy actually dangerous, or did everyone just decide she was? The "What if?" factor kept me guessing until the very last page.
• The Tension: As Blake starts writing those letters, the sense of dread becomes almost physical. I felt like I was being watched right along with her.
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that focus on twisted female friendships and the long reach of childhood trauma, this is a must-read. It’s eerie, fast-paced, and left me with a serious book hangover.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
I am absolutely reeling after finishing this. J. A. Baker has a way of tapping into those childhood friendships that feel more like a fever dream than a memory, and Such a Strange Little Girl is her darkest, most gripping work yet.
The story follows Blake and Lucy, two girls whose bond was forged in secrets and dares—the kind of intense, borderline-obsessive friendship that you just know is going to end in a wreck. When their world shattered years ago, it was easy for everyone to blame the "strange" one. But now that Blake is trying to reach out and make amends, she realizes that some shadows don't stay buried; they just grow taller.
Why this book hooked me:
• The Unsettling Nostalgia: The way the author weaves together the past and the present is seamless. It perfectly captures that skin-crawling feeling of realizing your childhood memories might be total lies.
• The Concept of "Strangeness": I loved the exploration of how labels stick to children. Was Lucy actually dangerous, or did everyone just decide she was? The "What if?" factor kept me guessing until the very last page.
• The Tension: As Blake starts writing those letters, the sense of dread becomes almost physical. I felt like I was being watched right along with her.
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that focus on twisted female friendships and the long reach of childhood trauma, this is a must-read. It’s eerie, fast-paced, and left me with a serious book hangover.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am apparently in the minority after looking at other reviews but I had a really hard time with this book, though I did enjoy the 2nd half more than the first. It centers on Blake, who tries to reconnect with her former friend Lucy, on the advice of her therapist. Much of the narrative in the first half of the book is letters back and forth between the 2, when it becomes clear that one of both of them is either lying of misremembering events from the past. There are also other chapters told from Blake’s perspective behind the letters, and flashback chapters from the girls’ childhood.
I didn’t feel like the synopsis really deceived the book well and then I had a tough time getting into the letters. I didn’t like that I was being deliberately misled since each woman’s memories of previous times didn’t match. I liked the flashback chapters more, but felt that the book really took off more towards the end when it was mostly told in real time. I figured out much of the major twists early but there were a couple surprises as time went on. I thought the ending worked for the rest of the story but it felt just a little anticlimactic.
Overall, I’m not sure why but I didn’t get as into this one as I expected. Seems like others enjoyed it quite a lot. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t feel like the synopsis really deceived the book well and then I had a tough time getting into the letters. I didn’t like that I was being deliberately misled since each woman’s memories of previous times didn’t match. I liked the flashback chapters more, but felt that the book really took off more towards the end when it was mostly told in real time. I figured out much of the major twists early but there were a couple surprises as time went on. I thought the ending worked for the rest of the story but it felt just a little anticlimactic.
Overall, I’m not sure why but I didn’t get as into this one as I expected. Seems like others enjoyed it quite a lot. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Genre: Dark Psychological Thriller/Suspense
Publisher: Boldwood Books Ltd
Pub. Date: Mar 14, 2026
“Such a Strange Little Girl” is a dark, twisty psychological thriller.
Lucy and Blake were childhood best friends. When a tragedy happens, they go their separate ways. After years of avoiding her past, Blake follows her therapist’s advice and reaches out to Lucy in an attempt at redemption, hoping Lucy can help her recover buried memories that cause her nightmares. While the novel focuses heavily on the secrets and “dares” shared by the two girls during their childhood, further details about Lucy’s specific family members are often revealed through the Blakes’ shifting memories. I was confused about which child grew up to be the strange and dangerous woman. I am not sure if that is what the author intended or if I missed it. Not understanding the ending ruined the novel for me. If someone knows, please fill me in through a message. Thanks.
I received this Advance Review Copy (ARC) novel from the publisher at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
Find all my book reviews at:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list…
https://books6259.wordpress.com/
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/review…
https://www.facebook.com/martie.neesr…
https://www.instagram.com/martie6947/
https://www.amazon.com/
Publisher: Boldwood Books Ltd
Pub. Date: Mar 14, 2026
“Such a Strange Little Girl” is a dark, twisty psychological thriller.
Lucy and Blake were childhood best friends. When a tragedy happens, they go their separate ways. After years of avoiding her past, Blake follows her therapist’s advice and reaches out to Lucy in an attempt at redemption, hoping Lucy can help her recover buried memories that cause her nightmares. While the novel focuses heavily on the secrets and “dares” shared by the two girls during their childhood, further details about Lucy’s specific family members are often revealed through the Blakes’ shifting memories. I was confused about which child grew up to be the strange and dangerous woman. I am not sure if that is what the author intended or if I missed it. Not understanding the ending ruined the novel for me. If someone knows, please fill me in through a message. Thanks.
I received this Advance Review Copy (ARC) novel from the publisher at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
Find all my book reviews at:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list…
https://books6259.wordpress.com/
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/review…
https://www.facebook.com/martie.neesr…
https://www.instagram.com/martie6947/
https://www.amazon.com/
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
She was such a strange little girl. Everyone said it. Everyone believed it. And everyone knew ahe was the one to fear.
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable - two girls bound by secrets, dares and the kind of friendship that cuts deeper than blood. Until the day everything shattered. And when it did, it was easy to point the finger at the strange little girl who never quite fit, who always watched too closely. Tears later, Blake's life is collapsing, and the only way to fix it is to confront the past she's tried hard to forget. she forces herself to reach out to Lucy in a letter, a first step to redemption. But as Blake begins to write, unsettling memories surface. Shadows she thought she'd buried twist into new shapes. And she starts to wonder - what if the strange little girl didn't stay little> What if she's learned to be dangerous? And what if Lucy has been waiting - patiently, silently - for Blake to contact her....
This story has a dual timeline and is told from a few different points of view. This is a hard book to review without giving away spoilers. It did take me a couple of chapters to get into this book, and then I was hooked.
Published 14th March 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #JABaker for my ARC of #SuchAStrangLitleGirl in exchange for an honest review.
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable - two girls bound by secrets, dares and the kind of friendship that cuts deeper than blood. Until the day everything shattered. And when it did, it was easy to point the finger at the strange little girl who never quite fit, who always watched too closely. Tears later, Blake's life is collapsing, and the only way to fix it is to confront the past she's tried hard to forget. she forces herself to reach out to Lucy in a letter, a first step to redemption. But as Blake begins to write, unsettling memories surface. Shadows she thought she'd buried twist into new shapes. And she starts to wonder - what if the strange little girl didn't stay little> What if she's learned to be dangerous? And what if Lucy has been waiting - patiently, silently - for Blake to contact her....
This story has a dual timeline and is told from a few different points of view. This is a hard book to review without giving away spoilers. It did take me a couple of chapters to get into this book, and then I was hooked.
Published 14th March 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #JABaker for my ARC of #SuchAStrangLitleGirl in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Such A Strange Little Girl is a dark psychological thriller that slowly peels off each layer to reveal awful behavior, huge reveals, lies and deaths!
Blake starts off her story by telling her psychologist Arthur about her life and how she is better at expressing herself through writing. So thus begins Blake's letters to Lucy. A friend whom Blake has hurt in the past and wants to right some wrongs. There is also a story on the past of Isla and Martha. Isla doesn't want to have a baby but her husband Finn seems to be in denial and doesn't notice all the harmful things that Isla does to get rid of her baby. Martha, the neighbor, tries to help Isla, but Martha is diagnosed with cancer and dies. This throws Isla into a spiral that she never seems to recuperate from. As the story switches between the past and the present, we begin to realize and notice that Blake isn't always truthful and that she constantly embellishes and lies about mostly everything, including Lucy.
This is a perfectly paced thriller. I enjoyed how each layer was peeled off like an onion and each reveal was greater than the previous one. I fell for Blake's lies and deceit, and I loved every bit of it. Isla was an awful mother and I belive this is where all the evil started.
Please check for trigger warnings.
Thank you Netgalley and a Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
Blake starts off her story by telling her psychologist Arthur about her life and how she is better at expressing herself through writing. So thus begins Blake's letters to Lucy. A friend whom Blake has hurt in the past and wants to right some wrongs. There is also a story on the past of Isla and Martha. Isla doesn't want to have a baby but her husband Finn seems to be in denial and doesn't notice all the harmful things that Isla does to get rid of her baby. Martha, the neighbor, tries to help Isla, but Martha is diagnosed with cancer and dies. This throws Isla into a spiral that she never seems to recuperate from. As the story switches between the past and the present, we begin to realize and notice that Blake isn't always truthful and that she constantly embellishes and lies about mostly everything, including Lucy.
This is a perfectly paced thriller. I enjoyed how each layer was peeled off like an onion and each reveal was greater than the previous one. I fell for Blake's lies and deceit, and I loved every bit of it. Isla was an awful mother and I belive this is where all the evil started.
Please check for trigger warnings.
Thank you Netgalley and a Boldwood Books for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
March 14, 2026
Thank you LBT for having me on this review tour and for my gifted copy of this epub
First I have to say I absolutely love this author. It’s another author I see and just instantly sign up. No hesitation nothing just instantly sign up this book was no exception at all!!!
Gosh I’m not even sure where to start with this book. I’m really not. So good. Well this was a really dark psychological thriller and really leans into the shadows of childhood memory. I mean just in the first few pages I was hooked because just so much unsettling and just off under the surface l.
The book follows Blake and Lucy for most of the time and tjey are the true heart of the book and their relationship is intense and secretive and it just falls apart. The way the author just writes past and present without getting confused or anything is fantastic like it was so smooth and good.
I love the strangeness in this book and how sometimes labels stick to kids that really hit me. I have kids and it worries me a lot and how the guessing of is Lucy dangerous or did she just get that label put on her. It really had me guessing until the end. I couldn’t put this down I really couldn’t. I had to know what was going to happen.
Overall this is a really good book and will have you questioning a lot and asking why or how or just really making you think !!!
I suggest yall get this book!!
First I have to say I absolutely love this author. It’s another author I see and just instantly sign up. No hesitation nothing just instantly sign up this book was no exception at all!!!
Gosh I’m not even sure where to start with this book. I’m really not. So good. Well this was a really dark psychological thriller and really leans into the shadows of childhood memory. I mean just in the first few pages I was hooked because just so much unsettling and just off under the surface l.
The book follows Blake and Lucy for most of the time and tjey are the true heart of the book and their relationship is intense and secretive and it just falls apart. The way the author just writes past and present without getting confused or anything is fantastic like it was so smooth and good.
I love the strangeness in this book and how sometimes labels stick to kids that really hit me. I have kids and it worries me a lot and how the guessing of is Lucy dangerous or did she just get that label put on her. It really had me guessing until the end. I couldn’t put this down I really couldn’t. I had to know what was going to happen.
Overall this is a really good book and will have you questioning a lot and asking why or how or just really making you think !!!
I suggest yall get this book!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Firstly I want to thank, Netgalley, J.A Baker and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read Such a Strange Little Girl.
This book is about a girl named Blake has been asked by her therapist to write letters to her friend Lucy as a means of confronting a past she would like to forget.
The story is told in multiple time lines mostly the past as that was the purpose of the letters. It is also told through a few different perspectives. This flows fairly smoothly but at times there are things that just don't make sense or don't seem to really work. (Unfortunately I can't expand on this without giving spoilers).
The pace of the book works at times but then can get a bit slow and tedious. The first part sets the second part quite well but the second part is where things get more interesting.
The character work is decent enough but the main issue is we don't really understand why the girls are the way they are. We are told one of the girls was the result of an unwanted pregnancy and it shows on the way she was treated . It leaves a very open ended view on the issue of nature vs nurture which is a bit frustrating as the issues seem to start at birth.
Overall this book was a good read it just had some minor flaws. 3.5 🌟
This book is about a girl named Blake has been asked by her therapist to write letters to her friend Lucy as a means of confronting a past she would like to forget.
The story is told in multiple time lines mostly the past as that was the purpose of the letters. It is also told through a few different perspectives. This flows fairly smoothly but at times there are things that just don't make sense or don't seem to really work. (Unfortunately I can't expand on this without giving spoilers).
The pace of the book works at times but then can get a bit slow and tedious. The first part sets the second part quite well but the second part is where things get more interesting.
The character work is decent enough but the main issue is we don't really understand why the girls are the way they are. We are told one of the girls was the result of an unwanted pregnancy and it shows on the way she was treated . It leaves a very open ended view on the issue of nature vs nurture which is a bit frustrating as the issues seem to start at birth.
Overall this book was a good read it just had some minor flaws. 3.5 🌟
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Such a Strange Girl was a somewhat challenging read for me, especially in the beginning. The story alternates between the message exchanges between Blake and Lucy and the events that led up to everything, shifting constantly between past and present. At times, this structure made it a bit difficult to follow what was happening and fully grasp the timeline of events.
Because of this, it took me a little while to settle into the story. However, once I reached the second half of the book, things started to come together more clearly, and the plot became far more engaging. The tension gradually built up, and I found myself much more invested in uncovering the truth behind the characters and their actions.
The ending, in particular, left me with that lingering feeling of curiosity: the kind that makes you pause and rethink parts of the story after finishing the final page. It definitely left me with a few questions and a sense that there might be more beneath the surface than what is immediately revealed.
Overall, while the beginning was a bit difficult to navigate, the second half and the intriguing conclusion made the journey worthwhile.
Such a Strange Girl was a somewhat challenging read for me, especially in the beginning. The story alternates between the message exchanges between Blake and Lucy and the events that led up to everything, shifting constantly between past and present. At times, this structure made it a bit difficult to follow what was happening and fully grasp the timeline of events.
Because of this, it took me a little while to settle into the story. However, once I reached the second half of the book, things started to come together more clearly, and the plot became far more engaging. The tension gradually built up, and I found myself much more invested in uncovering the truth behind the characters and their actions.
The ending, in particular, left me with that lingering feeling of curiosity: the kind that makes you pause and rethink parts of the story after finishing the final page. It definitely left me with a few questions and a sense that there might be more beneath the surface than what is immediately revealed.
Overall, while the beginning was a bit difficult to navigate, the second half and the intriguing conclusion made the journey worthwhile.
March 16, 2026
Wtf… this book.
It took me a little while to fully get into the story at the beginning, but once it pulled me in, it really pulled me in. What an emotional ride this was.
I genuinely felt so much for the main character. More than anything, she just wanted to be loved and accepted, and that made the whole story incredibly heartbreaking. She tried so hard… just in the wrong ways.
This book felt like a complete rollercoaster. I found myself constantly torn between sympathy, frustration, and sadness for the characters. It was intense and incredibly immersive.
I also felt really sad that Blake didn’t get a happy ending, just like Isla. But in a way, that’s what made the story feel so real. Life isn’t always fair, and not every story ends happily.
To me this felt less like a typical thriller and more like a tragic story about loneliness, choices, and how things can spiral. And honestly, that’s what made it hit even harder.
This book really stayed with me and I know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
An easy 5 stars for me! And I don’t give those lightly
I highly recommend this book!!
It took me a little while to fully get into the story at the beginning, but once it pulled me in, it really pulled me in. What an emotional ride this was.
I genuinely felt so much for the main character. More than anything, she just wanted to be loved and accepted, and that made the whole story incredibly heartbreaking. She tried so hard… just in the wrong ways.
This book felt like a complete rollercoaster. I found myself constantly torn between sympathy, frustration, and sadness for the characters. It was intense and incredibly immersive.
I also felt really sad that Blake didn’t get a happy ending, just like Isla. But in a way, that’s what made the story feel so real. Life isn’t always fair, and not every story ends happily.
To me this felt less like a typical thriller and more like a tragic story about loneliness, choices, and how things can spiral. And honestly, that’s what made it hit even harder.
This book really stayed with me and I know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
An easy 5 stars for me! And I don’t give those lightly
I highly recommend this book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Blake and Lucy were the best of friends bound together by secrets and lies...until the day that destroyed everything.
Years later Blake is struggling and she thinks the only way to get her life back on track is to reconnect with Lucy and confront their past, so she reaches out by writing her a letter. But as Blake writes unsettling memories resurface....
The novel follows a dual timeline between past and present, the present focuses on Blake and Lucy exchanging letters discussing memories of when they were little leading up to the day that shattered everything. Their memories are a little fuzzy and they both remember things in a different context. Who is telling the truth?
I don't know why I really struggled with this book. I don't know if it was the writing style but I really struggled through it. I enjoyed the chapters that went back to the past but I found the letters a drag. I'm gutted I didn't enjoy it as much as others did but if you like slow burn that builds paranoia this is for you.
Years later Blake is struggling and she thinks the only way to get her life back on track is to reconnect with Lucy and confront their past, so she reaches out by writing her a letter. But as Blake writes unsettling memories resurface....
The novel follows a dual timeline between past and present, the present focuses on Blake and Lucy exchanging letters discussing memories of when they were little leading up to the day that shattered everything. Their memories are a little fuzzy and they both remember things in a different context. Who is telling the truth?
I don't know why I really struggled with this book. I don't know if it was the writing style but I really struggled through it. I enjoyed the chapters that went back to the past but I found the letters a drag. I'm gutted I didn't enjoy it as much as others did but if you like slow burn that builds paranoia this is for you.
February 23, 2026
Blake and Lucy grew up together from a very young age. Best friends until something terrible happened.
Blake is advised by her therapist, Arthur, to write to Lucy, to try and recover their friendship. We follow the two of them as their letters go back and forth. But not everything is always remembered correctly.
I always go in having not read anything about the story with this particular author. I know that she will weave a tale that sucks me in and then feels like it has spat me out at the end.
This is a truly difficult and tragic story, and I liked trying to peel away the layers in each chapter to understand Blake and Lucy.
As much as I felt sorry for Lucy and her family, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Blake too. This story revolves around tragedy, and at times is brutal.
A dark psychological thriller that grabbed me from the prologue.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Blake is advised by her therapist, Arthur, to write to Lucy, to try and recover their friendship. We follow the two of them as their letters go back and forth. But not everything is always remembered correctly.
I always go in having not read anything about the story with this particular author. I know that she will weave a tale that sucks me in and then feels like it has spat me out at the end.
This is a truly difficult and tragic story, and I liked trying to peel away the layers in each chapter to understand Blake and Lucy.
As much as I felt sorry for Lucy and her family, I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Blake too. This story revolves around tragedy, and at times is brutal.
A dark psychological thriller that grabbed me from the prologue.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I was really looking forward to this book based on the synopsis, but it didn’t quite meet my expectations.
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable childhood friends until something destroyed their bond. Years later, Blake reaches out to Lucy through a series of letters, revisiting their past and the events that led to their falling out.
The first half of the book is told mostly through these letters, which I found a bit difficult to get into. The pacing felt slow at times, and the perspectives were occasionally hard to follow. However, the second half picked up and became more engaging as the tension built and the truth about what happened between them was revealed.
Overall, this psychological thriller may appeal to readers who enjoy slow-burn suspense, but it didn’t fully work for me but I am glad I got to experience this!
Blake and Lucy were once inseparable childhood friends until something destroyed their bond. Years later, Blake reaches out to Lucy through a series of letters, revisiting their past and the events that led to their falling out.
The first half of the book is told mostly through these letters, which I found a bit difficult to get into. The pacing felt slow at times, and the perspectives were occasionally hard to follow. However, the second half picked up and became more engaging as the tension built and the truth about what happened between them was revealed.
Overall, this psychological thriller may appeal to readers who enjoy slow-burn suspense, but it didn’t fully work for me but I am glad I got to experience this!
March 15, 2026
This is my first book by this author and boy I am still reeling from this book. I am such a fan of psychological thriller books and this one just hooks you and you just want answers.
This book follows Blake and Lucy. When they were kids they were best friends full of secrets and one day something happens to break their friendship. Everyone always called Lucy the strange little girl and you just wonder if all is true or just things people say and it sticks.
As an adult, Blake's therapist suggests writing to Lucy and see if you can repair the friendship. But as memories start to surface and there seems to be two different opinions ob what happens, you wonder if some things can't be repaired.
I don't want to spoil anything so I will leave at that but I definitely recommend if you like psychological thriller books. Thank you LBT Tour and J.A. Baker for allowing me to arc read this and this is my honest review.
This book follows Blake and Lucy. When they were kids they were best friends full of secrets and one day something happens to break their friendship. Everyone always called Lucy the strange little girl and you just wonder if all is true or just things people say and it sticks.
As an adult, Blake's therapist suggests writing to Lucy and see if you can repair the friendship. But as memories start to surface and there seems to be two different opinions ob what happens, you wonder if some things can't be repaired.
I don't want to spoil anything so I will leave at that but I definitely recommend if you like psychological thriller books. Thank you LBT Tour and J.A. Baker for allowing me to arc read this and this is my honest review.
March 16, 2026
Title: Such a Strange Little Girl
Author: JA Baker
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: March 14, 2026
I have loved every JA Baker book, so I was super excited to snag this ARC. Right from the first chapter, I quickly realized that this book was unlike her previous books. It actually felt like a totally different writing style.
The book alternates between two points of view, Lucy and Blake, who have been friends since birth. As we read, we find out about their past via letters that they write to one another. I found the writing style of the letters to feel rather wordy, so I wasn't really a fan. I typically like books written in this manner, but I found it difficult to feel invested in either character.
While the premise of the story is excellent, this one just didn't work for me. I'm sure plenty of readers will enjoy this book, as it is well written.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: JA Baker
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: March 14, 2026
I have loved every JA Baker book, so I was super excited to snag this ARC. Right from the first chapter, I quickly realized that this book was unlike her previous books. It actually felt like a totally different writing style.
The book alternates between two points of view, Lucy and Blake, who have been friends since birth. As we read, we find out about their past via letters that they write to one another. I found the writing style of the letters to feel rather wordy, so I wasn't really a fan. I typically like books written in this manner, but I found it difficult to feel invested in either character.
While the premise of the story is excellent, this one just didn't work for me. I'm sure plenty of readers will enjoy this book, as it is well written.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book focuses on 2 female characters, Blake and Lucy who after a tragic incident are now estranged….until Blake starts to write to Lucy to try and repair their friendship, quite a lot of the book features these letters ( back and forth ) and the more letters we read the more we see what happened throughout their lives leading to the present day
It’s quite a complicated story as in a lot has gone before, for both of them and its a tale of guilt and redemption but the easiest thing to say is to expect the unexpected and dont let your guard down with the book as when it bites, its ferocious!
Some truly unpleasant characters and some to be pitied made it a harrowing dark story but as always by this author well written and immersive
Am not convinced the title does it justice tbh
A book with a big kick…..will make sense when read it
It’s quite a complicated story as in a lot has gone before, for both of them and its a tale of guilt and redemption but the easiest thing to say is to expect the unexpected and dont let your guard down with the book as when it bites, its ferocious!
Some truly unpleasant characters and some to be pitied made it a harrowing dark story but as always by this author well written and immersive
Am not convinced the title does it justice tbh
A book with a big kick…..will make sense when read it
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
Since childhood, Blake and Lucy have been best friends, but later on, something destroyed that bond, and now Blake is trying to repair it.
The story unfolds in the first part through letters exchanged between the friends as a form of therapy. We learn about all the events that marked their relationship and how the facts are slightly different depending on who is narrating them. For me, this part is a little slowly paced.
In the second part of the book, we already know what to expect, and the bad feeling that has developed during the first part becomes stronger until we fully understand what happened and the subsequent events that will lead us to the end of the story.
Overall, this is a psychological thriller that is perfect for lovers of a slow-burner but effective story.
Since childhood, Blake and Lucy have been best friends, but later on, something destroyed that bond, and now Blake is trying to repair it.
The story unfolds in the first part through letters exchanged between the friends as a form of therapy. We learn about all the events that marked their relationship and how the facts are slightly different depending on who is narrating them. For me, this part is a little slowly paced.
In the second part of the book, we already know what to expect, and the bad feeling that has developed during the first part becomes stronger until we fully understand what happened and the subsequent events that will lead us to the end of the story.
Overall, this is a psychological thriller that is perfect for lovers of a slow-burner but effective story.
March 15, 2026
The beginning of this book confused me, it starts immediately with no leading up and I couldn’t get my head around what was going on. Then after a couple of chapters I was hooked…..
The book begins with a series of letters between two old friends seemingly recently reacquainted. These letters go on to tell confessions, truthful and hurtful for them to remember and listen to.
As the book progresses we learn more about each friends past and why they did what they did, each friend hoping they could get through the past and move on and become friends once again.
We soon learn that these friends aren’t being entirely truthful.
There were many twists throughout this book and as I thought the story was ending, the pace would pick up again.
This book, though difficult for me to initially understand quickly became a great read for me and I was eager to read on.
The book begins with a series of letters between two old friends seemingly recently reacquainted. These letters go on to tell confessions, truthful and hurtful for them to remember and listen to.
As the book progresses we learn more about each friends past and why they did what they did, each friend hoping they could get through the past and move on and become friends once again.
We soon learn that these friends aren’t being entirely truthful.
There were many twists throughout this book and as I thought the story was ending, the pace would pick up again.
This book, though difficult for me to initially understand quickly became a great read for me and I was eager to read on.
March 19, 2026
Lucy and Blake were once the best of friends. Then something terrible happened… and everything fell apart.
Now as an adult, Blake’s psychologist encourages her to write letters to Lucy as a way to process the past. What unfolds through those letters is a slow unraveling of buried secrets, distorted memories, and the kind of truth that doesn’t sit comfortably.
This one is quiet, unsettling, and a little haunting. The letter format pulls you in immediately—it feels personal, almost intrusive, like you’re reading something you shouldn’t be. And just when you think you understand what happened back then… you don’t.
It’s less about a shocking twist and more about the creeping realization that something has been off all along.
Strange, eerie, and just emotionally off-kilter enough to keep you hooked.
Now as an adult, Blake’s psychologist encourages her to write letters to Lucy as a way to process the past. What unfolds through those letters is a slow unraveling of buried secrets, distorted memories, and the kind of truth that doesn’t sit comfortably.
This one is quiet, unsettling, and a little haunting. The letter format pulls you in immediately—it feels personal, almost intrusive, like you’re reading something you shouldn’t be. And just when you think you understand what happened back then… you don’t.
It’s less about a shocking twist and more about the creeping realization that something has been off all along.
Strange, eerie, and just emotionally off-kilter enough to keep you hooked.
February 28, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC. I was really looking forward to reading it based on the synopsis, but was let down.
Blake and Lucy are childhood friends who were once inseparable. After years of being apart, Blake reaches out to Lucy through a letter to rehash everything that happened throughout their friendship.
Is she trying to mend the relationship? Is she trying to lure Lucy back? You have to read it to find out!
The majority of the first half of the book is written in the format of the letters and for some reason it was really hard to get into them. Both portrayals were erratic and hard to follow. The second half of the book was much better and allowed me to bump up my rating. I wish I liked it more.
Blake and Lucy are childhood friends who were once inseparable. After years of being apart, Blake reaches out to Lucy through a letter to rehash everything that happened throughout their friendship.
Is she trying to mend the relationship? Is she trying to lure Lucy back? You have to read it to find out!
The majority of the first half of the book is written in the format of the letters and for some reason it was really hard to get into them. Both portrayals were erratic and hard to follow. The second half of the book was much better and allowed me to bump up my rating. I wish I liked it more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Incredible!
Every time I thought I’d worked out exactly what was going on something else happened to throw me off, so many twists and turns.
I actually felt sorry for Blake, her home life sounded awful but then we only had her side apart from the little parts but if what Harriet said was true, what really happened in that house. Blake makes it clear throughout the book she’s a liar so I guess it’s up to the reader to decide.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, this authors writing style is so unique. It was great, i was glad there was an epilogue and it wasn’t just left for the reader to fill in the blanks.
* full disclosure I was given this book in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley*
Every time I thought I’d worked out exactly what was going on something else happened to throw me off, so many twists and turns.
I actually felt sorry for Blake, her home life sounded awful but then we only had her side apart from the little parts but if what Harriet said was true, what really happened in that house. Blake makes it clear throughout the book she’s a liar so I guess it’s up to the reader to decide.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, this authors writing style is so unique. It was great, i was glad there was an epilogue and it wasn’t just left for the reader to fill in the blanks.
* full disclosure I was given this book in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley*
March 15, 2026
As always, JA Baker writes a gripping novel.
This one shifts between correspondence between two one-time friends, and past and present.
I must say, the first half of the book is a little tedious. The letters flinging accusations and rebuttals made me wonder if their memories were actually off.
The second half of the book is more engaging.
I wasn't sure which child was Isla's, but it was plain to see in the latter part of the book.
Some of the characters are hideous. Some of them are just not easy to understand.
The novel is dark, cruel, tragic and tense. It is quite complicated, takes you in one direction, and then veers off in another.
It is a novel about extreme jealousy, and not being able to fit into normal society.
4/5 stars from me.
This one shifts between correspondence between two one-time friends, and past and present.
I must say, the first half of the book is a little tedious. The letters flinging accusations and rebuttals made me wonder if their memories were actually off.
The second half of the book is more engaging.
I wasn't sure which child was Isla's, but it was plain to see in the latter part of the book.
Some of the characters are hideous. Some of them are just not easy to understand.
The novel is dark, cruel, tragic and tense. It is quite complicated, takes you in one direction, and then veers off in another.
It is a novel about extreme jealousy, and not being able to fit into normal society.
4/5 stars from me.
March 16, 2026
Such A Strange Little Girl - J.A Baker
I found this book a little difficult to summarise because much of its impact comes from the experience of reading it rather than from any single plot point. What I can say is that it’s a compelling psychological thriller that taps into a very relatable idea that people are not always quite who they seem.
The story kept me engaged throughout, and the tension builds in a way that makes it hard to put down. While the ending wasn’t quite what I had anticipated (I was expecting something more sinister) it certainly gave me something to think about and left a lingering impression.
If you enjoy character-driven thrillers that explore trust, perception, and the hidden sides of everyday life, then this is definitely one I’d recommend.
I found this book a little difficult to summarise because much of its impact comes from the experience of reading it rather than from any single plot point. What I can say is that it’s a compelling psychological thriller that taps into a very relatable idea that people are not always quite who they seem.
The story kept me engaged throughout, and the tension builds in a way that makes it hard to put down. While the ending wasn’t quite what I had anticipated (I was expecting something more sinister) it certainly gave me something to think about and left a lingering impression.
If you enjoy character-driven thrillers that explore trust, perception, and the hidden sides of everyday life, then this is definitely one I’d recommend.
March 16, 2026
Everyone always said she was such a strange little girl…
This dark psychological thriller follows Blake and Lucy, two girls whose childhood friendship is built on secrets and a bond that runs deeper than anyone realised.
I really enjoyed the way the story is told through letters written in the present day, while the rest of the story gradually reveals what happened between them in the past. Learning about their friendship piece by piece while the tension builds made it hard to put down.
There is an unsettling atmosphere running throughout the book and some heavy moments, but it keeps you turning the pages to understand what really happened between them.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with layered storytelling, this is definitely one to check out.
This dark psychological thriller follows Blake and Lucy, two girls whose childhood friendship is built on secrets and a bond that runs deeper than anyone realised.
I really enjoyed the way the story is told through letters written in the present day, while the rest of the story gradually reveals what happened between them in the past. Learning about their friendship piece by piece while the tension builds made it hard to put down.
There is an unsettling atmosphere running throughout the book and some heavy moments, but it keeps you turning the pages to understand what really happened between them.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with layered storytelling, this is definitely one to check out.
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