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What She Knew
Nine years ago, Stephanie’s best friend vanished. Now she’s back to haunt her. Life has been good to Stephanie. Married to college professor, Oliver, with two adorable children, she lives in a lovely house, surrounded by beautiful things. It hasn’t always been like this. Nine years ago, Stephanie’s flatmate Alison vanished, presumed murdered. It was a horrible time, and Stephanie tries hard not to think about it. But when a TV researcher working on a true crime series wants to interview her about the case, Stephanie is forced to confront the past and recognise that she has a deep need to answer one burning question – what happened to Alison? It soon becomes clear that someone doesn’t want her digging for the truth and is willing to do anything to conceal a shocking web of lies. As her perfect life unravels, Stephanie realises that by opening a door into the past she has woken a sleeping monster. And now it’s her own life that is on the line.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2021
1475 people are currently reading
1253 people want to read
About the author
Miranda Rijks
42 books879 followersMiranda Rijks is the author of 26 psychological thrillers, many of which have been Amazon bestsellers. She lives in Sussex, England with her Dutch husband and black Labrador.
Her fast-paced, twisty thrillers are inspired by scary things that have happened to her or places she has visited.
Miranda turned to writing after recovering from Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. She's so grateful that she's now a full-time author and living the dream!
Visit www.mirandarijks.com to get her FREE novella, The Cheat, and the chance to name characters in her books.
Her fast-paced, twisty thrillers are inspired by scary things that have happened to her or places she has visited.
Miranda turned to writing after recovering from Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. She's so grateful that she's now a full-time author and living the dream!
Visit www.mirandarijks.com to get her FREE novella, The Cheat, and the chance to name characters in her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
July 22, 2021
Ridiculous but fun!
2.5 stars
What She Knew is a psychological thriller about a superstar art student who went missing. Told through the eyes of her former roommate, we get an unreliable narrator’s perspective on the events that led to her disappearance.
When Stephanie’s university roommate, Allison, disappears without a trace, she is mired in guilt. The night of Allison’s disappearance, Stephanie ignored Allison’s outreach for help. Nine years have passed, and Stephanie seems to have moved on; she is happily married and a stay-at-home mother to two children. All is well until a documentary researcher begins investigating Allison’s disappearance causing Stephanie to reevaluate what happened to her friend while at the same time facing the truth about her so-called perfect life.
For the most part, I have read this plot before. There is one major twist I didn’t see coming, and while surprising, it’s what pulled this book into the realm of the implausible.
Narrated by Stephanie, her naivety was frustrating. She is a teller, not a shower. She tells the reader about how she feels, but we don’t get much opportunity to see what’s happening. The timeline switches back and forth between the past and the present with chapters titled “Now” and “Then.” Although 10 years have passed since Allison’s disappearance, there is little growth in Stephanie’s voice.
The dialogue is extremely awkward-- it’s more of people talking at each other rather than to each other.
The ending was laughable. It’s over-the-top and rushed. From Stephanie’s 5 minute relationship with Rahul to the reveal, it was all a bit too far-fetched. However, I couldn’t look away. At a certain point, I had to give up being critical of this book, or I wouldn’t have been able to finish it. I still rolled my eyes from time to time and laughed at the events, but I had fun doing it!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
What She Knew is a psychological thriller about a superstar art student who went missing. Told through the eyes of her former roommate, we get an unreliable narrator’s perspective on the events that led to her disappearance.
When Stephanie’s university roommate, Allison, disappears without a trace, she is mired in guilt. The night of Allison’s disappearance, Stephanie ignored Allison’s outreach for help. Nine years have passed, and Stephanie seems to have moved on; she is happily married and a stay-at-home mother to two children. All is well until a documentary researcher begins investigating Allison’s disappearance causing Stephanie to reevaluate what happened to her friend while at the same time facing the truth about her so-called perfect life.
For the most part, I have read this plot before. There is one major twist I didn’t see coming, and while surprising, it’s what pulled this book into the realm of the implausible.
Narrated by Stephanie, her naivety was frustrating. She is a teller, not a shower. She tells the reader about how she feels, but we don’t get much opportunity to see what’s happening. The timeline switches back and forth between the past and the present with chapters titled “Now” and “Then.” Although 10 years have passed since Allison’s disappearance, there is little growth in Stephanie’s voice.
The dialogue is extremely awkward-- it’s more of people talking at each other rather than to each other.
The ending was laughable. It’s over-the-top and rushed. From Stephanie’s 5 minute relationship with Rahul to the reveal, it was all a bit too far-fetched. However, I couldn’t look away. At a certain point, I had to give up being critical of this book, or I wouldn’t have been able to finish it. I still rolled my eyes from time to time and laughed at the events, but I had fun doing it!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2022
The past haunts the present in this intense thriller that is shrouded with guilt, betrayal and deception. A guilty conscience is an unwanted companion of Stephanie, living with the mystery of her missing friend, Alison. What happened to Stephanie nine years ago? Was it an unfortunate accident, or was something more malicious at play? So many suspects, so little time. Who can you trust when everyone is under suspicion, even your own reflection? Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for my audiobook.
January 15, 2023
4⭐ for the audiobook.
Featuring ~ single POV, dual timeline
This one starts off very intriguing with the smothering of a girl.
Stephanie and Oliver have been married for a while with 2 adorable children. Oliver was once her professor, but they didn't get together until after she graduated. Her friend and roommate, Alison, went missing while they were in college.
David, a true crime reporter, comes around asking questions. There are a few people close to Stephanie that don't want David to start digging, but Stephanie still has nightmares about ignoring her last call from Alison and she's ready for some answers.
Told by Stephanie and goes back and forth between now and then ~ this way kept me engaged and intrigued with the story line. I definitely had some inklings along the way about what was happening, but I didn't hate that I already figured some things out. One particular "twist" was so obvious even unseasoned mystery readers will be sure to figure it out. I was pleasantly surprised with a couple twists in there though.
Ella Lynch did a lovely job narrating for 8 hours and 7 minutes, easy listen at 2x.
This is not an unique plot by any means. I wasn't overly in love with Stephanie or the ending, but an enjoyable psychological and suspenseful read nonetheless. I have enjoyed Miranda's work before and I would definitely pick up a book by her again.
*Thanks to Dreamscape Media, Miranda Rijks and NetGalley for the advance audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Featuring ~ single POV, dual timeline
This one starts off very intriguing with the smothering of a girl.
Stephanie and Oliver have been married for a while with 2 adorable children. Oliver was once her professor, but they didn't get together until after she graduated. Her friend and roommate, Alison, went missing while they were in college.
David, a true crime reporter, comes around asking questions. There are a few people close to Stephanie that don't want David to start digging, but Stephanie still has nightmares about ignoring her last call from Alison and she's ready for some answers.
Told by Stephanie and goes back and forth between now and then ~ this way kept me engaged and intrigued with the story line. I definitely had some inklings along the way about what was happening, but I didn't hate that I already figured some things out. One particular "twist" was so obvious even unseasoned mystery readers will be sure to figure it out. I was pleasantly surprised with a couple twists in there though.
Ella Lynch did a lovely job narrating for 8 hours and 7 minutes, easy listen at 2x.
This is not an unique plot by any means. I wasn't overly in love with Stephanie or the ending, but an enjoyable psychological and suspenseful read nonetheless. I have enjoyed Miranda's work before and I would definitely pick up a book by her again.
*Thanks to Dreamscape Media, Miranda Rijks and NetGalley for the advance audiobook. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
July 16, 2022
So many "cold-case missing student" books,
So little time.
What really happened to Stephanie's flatmate Alison when she vanished nine years ago?
Unfortunately, there is no need to buckle one's seatbelt for "What She Knew".
In addition to being very slow-paced and underwhelming, the book was more formulaic than suspenseful.
The protagonist was spineless and the book lacked the "sucker punch" big reveals of the author's earlier books.
I am a huge fan of Miranda Rijks so perhaps my expectations were set too high.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was good but not great.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars.
So little time.
What really happened to Stephanie's flatmate Alison when she vanished nine years ago?
Unfortunately, there is no need to buckle one's seatbelt for "What She Knew".
In addition to being very slow-paced and underwhelming, the book was more formulaic than suspenseful.
The protagonist was spineless and the book lacked the "sucker punch" big reveals of the author's earlier books.
I am a huge fan of Miranda Rijks so perhaps my expectations were set too high.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was good but not great.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars.
August 20, 2021
Stephanie’s university flatmate, Allison, disappeared without a trace 9 years ago and a documentary researcher has begun investigating her disappearance causing Stephanie to reevaluate what happened to her friend. Stephanie is now married to her former professor and is a stay-at-home mother to two children.
Once again I seem to be reading two books with very similar storylines. Both stories involve the disappearance and presumed murder of a close acquaintance 9-10 years previously while they were attending university/college. Both are told mainly from the viewpoint of the narrator in chapters identified basically as 'Then' and 'Now'. The stories went in different directions but to me this one was more fun and a quicker read. Even though Stephanie appeared to be subservient to Oliver, I think she had more backbone than she was given credit for. None of the characters had a lot of depth but sometimes you just have to smile and go with the flow of the story. There were a couple of twists that caught me by surprise and the epilogue brought a tear to my eye as did the author's notes at the end.
(Note to Self: Along with not reading any more books that involve happenings at summer camp, don't read any more books that involve past murders at college or university!)
I think this was a Read Now on Netgalley so thanks to Miranda Rijks, the author, Inkubator Books, the publisher, and to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC of "What She Knew". All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: July 18, 2021
Once again I seem to be reading two books with very similar storylines. Both stories involve the disappearance and presumed murder of a close acquaintance 9-10 years previously while they were attending university/college. Both are told mainly from the viewpoint of the narrator in chapters identified basically as 'Then' and 'Now'. The stories went in different directions but to me this one was more fun and a quicker read. Even though Stephanie appeared to be subservient to Oliver, I think she had more backbone than she was given credit for. None of the characters had a lot of depth but sometimes you just have to smile and go with the flow of the story. There were a couple of twists that caught me by surprise and the epilogue brought a tear to my eye as did the author's notes at the end.
(Note to Self: Along with not reading any more books that involve happenings at summer camp, don't read any more books that involve past murders at college or university!)
I think this was a Read Now on Netgalley so thanks to Miranda Rijks, the author, Inkubator Books, the publisher, and to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC of "What She Knew". All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: July 18, 2021
December 20, 2021
I enjoyed this- was a good mystery with surprise twists. It centers in Steph, whose best friend and college roommate disappears. Steph gets on with her life but is always haunted by what happened; when a researcher attempting to solve the mystery reaches out to her, she can’t help but want to get involved even though her family and friends worry about her mental health.
The story moves at a fast clip and the author drops both real clues and red herrings throughout. When all was said and done, the ending definitely threw me for a loop, but the breadcrumbs had been laid. I didn’t really connect with Steph- she seemed naive, insecure, and a bit catty and I found myself irritated with her at times.
The epilogue tied everything up in a nice little bow, which I enjoyed but may seem over the top for some. Overall, I walked away satisfied with both the story itself and how it all ended up. I’d recommend this book for those that like mysteries. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story moves at a fast clip and the author drops both real clues and red herrings throughout. When all was said and done, the ending definitely threw me for a loop, but the breadcrumbs had been laid. I didn’t really connect with Steph- she seemed naive, insecure, and a bit catty and I found myself irritated with her at times.
The epilogue tied everything up in a nice little bow, which I enjoyed but may seem over the top for some. Overall, I walked away satisfied with both the story itself and how it all ended up. I’d recommend this book for those that like mysteries. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2021
I came across this author just over six months ago and loved the addictive writing and have quickly devoured the other novels. This is another addictive read and great suspense.
Stephanie is married to Oliver, a college professor and they live in a beautiful house with their two children. But life has not always been so picturesque, nine years ago, Stephanie’s best friend Alison vanished but now she’s back to haunt her. Alison was Stephanie’s flatmate and she disappeared presumed murdered. Life has proved difficult at times for Stephanie but when a TV researcher working on a true crime series wants to interview her about the case, she is forced to confront the past and recognise that she has a deep need to answer one burning question – what happened to Alison? When Stephanie starts to try and un earth the truth to Alison’s disappearance it becomes clear that someone doesn’t want her looking too closely at the past. Stephanie investigations are having repercussions and by looking into the past she is putting her life at risk.
Well written, great characters and lots of suspense make this an entertaining read.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Inkubator Books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Stephanie is married to Oliver, a college professor and they live in a beautiful house with their two children. But life has not always been so picturesque, nine years ago, Stephanie’s best friend Alison vanished but now she’s back to haunt her. Alison was Stephanie’s flatmate and she disappeared presumed murdered. Life has proved difficult at times for Stephanie but when a TV researcher working on a true crime series wants to interview her about the case, she is forced to confront the past and recognise that she has a deep need to answer one burning question – what happened to Alison? When Stephanie starts to try and un earth the truth to Alison’s disappearance it becomes clear that someone doesn’t want her looking too closely at the past. Stephanie investigations are having repercussions and by looking into the past she is putting her life at risk.
Well written, great characters and lots of suspense make this an entertaining read.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Inkubator Books for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2022
Stephanie and Oliver are happily married with two kids. They met unconventionally. He was employed at the school when she was studying art. After the disappearance of her best friend and roommate, they grow close and she leaves school and they marry and have children quickly.
Years later, in domestic normalcy, a true crime reporter named David calls Stephanie because he’s investigating the bestie’s disappearance. She is anxious to participate because Allyson’s disappearance has haunted her and she wants answers. Oliver is displeased to the point of looking a bit suspicious.
As Stephanie and David continue opening up wounds of the past, it’s clear someone wants to stop them but why? Will this case ever be solved or will there be more grief to come?
I’ll be honest. This was pretty average. It wasn’t bad. The main character was frustrating because although she was sweet, she was very gullible. It’s hard to follow someone who keeps doing stupid things. People do 50 suspicious things and she’s like “I have no reason to suspect them!” But it was still a nice, quick read and it ended well.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the chance to listen and review! The audio narration is great.
Years later, in domestic normalcy, a true crime reporter named David calls Stephanie because he’s investigating the bestie’s disappearance. She is anxious to participate because Allyson’s disappearance has haunted her and she wants answers. Oliver is displeased to the point of looking a bit suspicious.
As Stephanie and David continue opening up wounds of the past, it’s clear someone wants to stop them but why? Will this case ever be solved or will there be more grief to come?
I’ll be honest. This was pretty average. It wasn’t bad. The main character was frustrating because although she was sweet, she was very gullible. It’s hard to follow someone who keeps doing stupid things. People do 50 suspicious things and she’s like “I have no reason to suspect them!” But it was still a nice, quick read and it ended well.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the chance to listen and review! The audio narration is great.
July 21, 2021
I trust author Miranda Rijks, and she has never let me down in delivering a suspenseful thriller. Her books, for me, are what I would call an easy, somewhat predictable, read, but the writing has the power to force me to read it at one go.
This book too had the haunting quality to keep me quite involved in the plotline which had Steph wanting to know what happened to her roommate who had disappeared years ago.
Now safely ensconced in a loving family life, I liked how the sense of justice slowly awakened in the main character when she was approached by a crime series journalist, asking questions about her then-best friend.
Past and present were slowly laid open, with only a few characters at play, it was easy to guess what could have happened. All the same, it was fun to read the prose that soon culminated in an explosive reveal.
A letter from the author at the end showed me her inspiration for the book and made me glad that fiction had started out from the truths in her life. A fun read. I trust Miranda Rijks to give me a solid two hour escapist read.
This book too had the haunting quality to keep me quite involved in the plotline which had Steph wanting to know what happened to her roommate who had disappeared years ago.
Now safely ensconced in a loving family life, I liked how the sense of justice slowly awakened in the main character when she was approached by a crime series journalist, asking questions about her then-best friend.
Past and present were slowly laid open, with only a few characters at play, it was easy to guess what could have happened. All the same, it was fun to read the prose that soon culminated in an explosive reveal.
A letter from the author at the end showed me her inspiration for the book and made me glad that fiction had started out from the truths in her life. A fun read. I trust Miranda Rijks to give me a solid two hour escapist read.
July 22, 2022
Release: TODAY!
*Thank you to @netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
First off, the narrator was fantastic. I absolutely loved her voice. She could read me my grocery list.
Second, this book was well written with no extra fluff. Just how I like it! The ending gets a little bit silly in my opinion, but I was overall pleased listening to it! It kept me engaged the whole time!
*Thank you to @netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
First off, the narrator was fantastic. I absolutely loved her voice. She could read me my grocery list.
Second, this book was well written with no extra fluff. Just how I like it! The ending gets a little bit silly in my opinion, but I was overall pleased listening to it! It kept me engaged the whole time!
August 30, 2021
⭐⭐⭐ -- Went pear shaped near the end.
This one was okay. The mystery held my interest and kept me guessing until the end. The characters were intriguing, and it was a relatively quick read. However, the ending felt rushed and the big "twist" was rather far-fetched and dare I say, cheesy? 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This one was okay. The mystery held my interest and kept me guessing until the end. The characters were intriguing, and it was a relatively quick read. However, the ending felt rushed and the big "twist" was rather far-fetched and dare I say, cheesy? 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
July 22, 2022
The "queen" of signature jaw-dropping plot twists, author Miranda Rijks is back with another multi-layered, gripping psychological thriller that will keep you glued to the pages.
"I raced through the (audio and e-book) of WHAT SHE KNEW, wholly absorbed in the mystery and intrigue of the story as it kept me guessing. I found it compelling, dark, twisty, and a definite must-read/listen!"
WHAT SHE KNEW could be deadly from murder, lies, greed, and betrayal with an intriguing connection to the mysterious art world. The secrets will not stay buried when opening the door to a nine-year-old murder case. Anyone who gets close will be collateral damage. How far will they go to protect their secrets?
Present Day: Stephanie is married to Oliver, her old professor, and former tutor while studying art history at a London university. They are married with two children (Sam and Bea), and Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom attending law school. She desires to be a solicitor (attorney) specializing in personal injury. She is driven by justice due to her past. However, the timing is not right, but she will not give up on her dream. She thinks she might be pregnant again and is not pleased since this will further delay her law studies.
Past: Nine years ago Alison was her flatmate when attending university, and they were close. However, she went missing, and the body was never found. They pinned the murder on Josh, her boyfriend, who is currently serving time in prison. She does not think Josh is guilty. What happened to Alison? She is haunted to this day.
But when David Green, claiming to be a TV researcher working on a true crime series about Alison, wants to interview her about the case—Stephanie is forced to confront the past and help in any way she can, even though Oliver wants her to stay out of it as well as her friends.
Oliver (husband) is a full professor in the History of Art department. He enjoys academia and his hobby, art curation, with William. Oliver and Stephanie are friends with William and Naomi De Villeneuve, who live in a village in Oxshott. They are wealthy, live in a vast mansion, and are well connected in the global art world. (collecting and antiquities)
Then Stephanie receives threats about digging up the past. "I know what you did." What did she do? She is determined to meet David and visit Josh in jail without telling her husband. But the more she digs, the closer she is to danger.
When odd things start showing up in the home safe, and Oliver is acting weird, and new information surfaces from David that Oliver and Allison might have been connected in the past, she fears for her life? How well does she know her husband and friends?
Miranda expertly unravels the layers of mystery and deceit at the heart of this chilling thriller. What begins with a missing woman, with each discovery, taking a sharp look at the people we think we know. Packed with tension and twists, a gripping, haunting story kept me guessing until the satisfying conclusion.
As I have mentioned previously, I recently discovered this author and currently reading everything I can get my hands on between my new books. Love her style - she delivers compelling, fully drawn characters. Check out some of her backlist that is now in audiobook format. I highly recommend her latest book (7/24) The Insomniac.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Ella Lynch for an engaging performance. Thank you to #DreamscapeMedia and #NetGalley for an ALC to listen to, enjoy, and review.
I also purchased the e-book and enjoyed the LETTER FROM THE AUTHOR regarding her family's lost/discovery art restored to its rightful owners from back in the 1920s being stored at a European museum.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub Date: July 21, 2022
July 2022 Must-Read Books
"I raced through the (audio and e-book) of WHAT SHE KNEW, wholly absorbed in the mystery and intrigue of the story as it kept me guessing. I found it compelling, dark, twisty, and a definite must-read/listen!"
WHAT SHE KNEW could be deadly from murder, lies, greed, and betrayal with an intriguing connection to the mysterious art world. The secrets will not stay buried when opening the door to a nine-year-old murder case. Anyone who gets close will be collateral damage. How far will they go to protect their secrets?
Present Day: Stephanie is married to Oliver, her old professor, and former tutor while studying art history at a London university. They are married with two children (Sam and Bea), and Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom attending law school. She desires to be a solicitor (attorney) specializing in personal injury. She is driven by justice due to her past. However, the timing is not right, but she will not give up on her dream. She thinks she might be pregnant again and is not pleased since this will further delay her law studies.
Past: Nine years ago Alison was her flatmate when attending university, and they were close. However, she went missing, and the body was never found. They pinned the murder on Josh, her boyfriend, who is currently serving time in prison. She does not think Josh is guilty. What happened to Alison? She is haunted to this day.
But when David Green, claiming to be a TV researcher working on a true crime series about Alison, wants to interview her about the case—Stephanie is forced to confront the past and help in any way she can, even though Oliver wants her to stay out of it as well as her friends.
Oliver (husband) is a full professor in the History of Art department. He enjoys academia and his hobby, art curation, with William. Oliver and Stephanie are friends with William and Naomi De Villeneuve, who live in a village in Oxshott. They are wealthy, live in a vast mansion, and are well connected in the global art world. (collecting and antiquities)
Then Stephanie receives threats about digging up the past. "I know what you did." What did she do? She is determined to meet David and visit Josh in jail without telling her husband. But the more she digs, the closer she is to danger.
When odd things start showing up in the home safe, and Oliver is acting weird, and new information surfaces from David that Oliver and Allison might have been connected in the past, she fears for her life? How well does she know her husband and friends?
Miranda expertly unravels the layers of mystery and deceit at the heart of this chilling thriller. What begins with a missing woman, with each discovery, taking a sharp look at the people we think we know. Packed with tension and twists, a gripping, haunting story kept me guessing until the satisfying conclusion.
As I have mentioned previously, I recently discovered this author and currently reading everything I can get my hands on between my new books. Love her style - she delivers compelling, fully drawn characters. Check out some of her backlist that is now in audiobook format. I highly recommend her latest book (7/24) The Insomniac.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Ella Lynch for an engaging performance. Thank you to #DreamscapeMedia and #NetGalley for an ALC to listen to, enjoy, and review.
I also purchased the e-book and enjoyed the LETTER FROM THE AUTHOR regarding her family's lost/discovery art restored to its rightful owners from back in the 1920s being stored at a European museum.
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub Date: July 21, 2022
July 2022 Must-Read Books
October 31, 2021
A pleasant read. No unnecessary words, the chapters flew by, interesting enough that I wanted to read just one more. I loved the complex characters and the ending felt satisfying.
July 20, 2021
I have read some books from Rijks before and while I don't remember much right now of others, at the time I realised I enjoyed reading her books.
Stephanie's character is relatable. Even though she made some naive choices, it is still easy to understand why she did it. I am not saying she is morally right but who is in these types of psychological thrillers. The ending was also unexpected which I think was hard to achieve since there aren't many characters in the story.
Crazy thought, nothing related to this book -
One of the crazy thing which keeps happening to me is that, I am picking up books (without making any conscious decision) which has same name protagonist. I just finished this and picked up another and the main character's name is Steff and in that one there is one character named Daisy and another one I picked to read after that has the main character named, you guessed it, Daisy. Since it is not intentional, it is spooking me out a bit but it happens sometimes right? right guys?
Stephanie's character is relatable. Even though she made some naive choices, it is still easy to understand why she did it. I am not saying she is morally right but who is in these types of psychological thrillers. The ending was also unexpected which I think was hard to achieve since there aren't many characters in the story.
Crazy thought, nothing related to this book -
One of the crazy thing which keeps happening to me is that, I am picking up books (without making any conscious decision) which has same name protagonist. I just finished this and picked up another and the main character's name is Steff and in that one there is one character named Daisy and another one I picked to read after that has the main character named, you guessed it, Daisy. Since it is not intentional, it is spooking me out a bit but it happens sometimes right? right guys?
August 8, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for this advance listener copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was good book. I can't say that it will be something that stays with me or that I will reread, but it was good. I've been reading a lot of Miranda Rijks lately and this was one of her better books. The twist at the end was satisfying and made sense. So many twists nowadays don't make sense. It's like authors are just creating twists for shock value, but this one worked well with the story.
I don't like many of the narrators for her books and this one was no different. I didn't like her. Her male voices were terrible and she made Stephanie sound whiney. I did like Stephanie. I could relate to her and she felt realistic. All in all, well done. 3.75 stars.
This was good book. I can't say that it will be something that stays with me or that I will reread, but it was good. I've been reading a lot of Miranda Rijks lately and this was one of her better books. The twist at the end was satisfying and made sense. So many twists nowadays don't make sense. It's like authors are just creating twists for shock value, but this one worked well with the story.
I don't like many of the narrators for her books and this one was no different. I didn't like her. Her male voices were terrible and she made Stephanie sound whiney. I did like Stephanie. I could relate to her and she felt realistic. All in all, well done. 3.75 stars.
July 11, 2021
Not Rijk's best work but no means her worst.
This story was a decent enough thriller. I had identified the culprit behind the tragic death of Alison quite early on. The twist came when the motive behind her killing was revealed. And, boy, I did not see that coming at all. The novel was a bit weak in plot but the mystery and the characters were interesting enough to keep me reading to the end.
This story was a decent enough thriller. I had identified the culprit behind the tragic death of Alison quite early on. The twist came when the motive behind her killing was revealed. And, boy, I did not see that coming at all. The novel was a bit weak in plot but the mystery and the characters were interesting enough to keep me reading to the end.
September 29, 2022
2.5 Stars
Eh. Nothing new. Also the ending was predictable.
Eh. Nothing new. Also the ending was predictable.
July 3, 2021
I love when I find an author who consistently pens tightly woven, multi-layered thrillers filled with ordinary people facing horrible things.
Miranda Rijks has done it again with WHAT SHE KNEW. Told in dual timelines, this is the story of Stephanie, whose school flatmate Alison went missing nine years earlier. Stephanie carries tremendous guilt because Alison had something to tell her, and Stephanie blew her off for a one-night stand. When she returns from her encounter, the flat is empty, and Alison is gone. Blood is found in her boyfriend's apartment, and he is promptly arrested.
But that's not all Stephanie did. Struggling to get her thesis completed, she comes across Alison's, which is nearly complete, as she is boxing up her belongings for Alison's parents. She turns it in as her own, receives high marks, and starts dating (and eventually marries) one of her professors, Oliver. Interesting.
Then a man filming a documentary about Alison's disappearance and presumed death shows up. Stephanie's nightmares, which have plagued her for years, return with a vengeance. Cryptic notes addressed to her show up at her house. Worse, Oliver is away from home more than usual, lying about faculty meetings and such. Oh, and he's changed the combination on his safe too.
This book was an absolute whirlwind with so many red herrings, and while I guessed the culprit before the resolution, I NEVER saw the motive coming. The ending was quite sobering and very satisfying.
Much gratitude to the publisher for allowing me to read this early e-copy.
Miranda Rijks has done it again with WHAT SHE KNEW. Told in dual timelines, this is the story of Stephanie, whose school flatmate Alison went missing nine years earlier. Stephanie carries tremendous guilt because Alison had something to tell her, and Stephanie blew her off for a one-night stand. When she returns from her encounter, the flat is empty, and Alison is gone. Blood is found in her boyfriend's apartment, and he is promptly arrested.
But that's not all Stephanie did. Struggling to get her thesis completed, she comes across Alison's, which is nearly complete, as she is boxing up her belongings for Alison's parents. She turns it in as her own, receives high marks, and starts dating (and eventually marries) one of her professors, Oliver. Interesting.
Then a man filming a documentary about Alison's disappearance and presumed death shows up. Stephanie's nightmares, which have plagued her for years, return with a vengeance. Cryptic notes addressed to her show up at her house. Worse, Oliver is away from home more than usual, lying about faculty meetings and such. Oh, and he's changed the combination on his safe too.
This book was an absolute whirlwind with so many red herrings, and while I guessed the culprit before the resolution, I NEVER saw the motive coming. The ending was quite sobering and very satisfying.
Much gratitude to the publisher for allowing me to read this early e-copy.
July 19, 2022
Ugh this MC. The amount of times she informs us (or really herself) about how great of a husband she has when he is literally 100 red flags disguised as a hot guy is too much for me. My eyes rolled so far back I saw my brain - and it was cowering from her naivety. She actually makes a list of all the reasons she shouldn’t trust him - and they’re good reasons - and then says “none of those are any reason not to trust him”…seriously. This book could have been wrapped up in a short story if she got her head out of her nether regions and trusted her own instincts instead of the nonsense her husband spews at her.
If there was a different main character I think I would have loved this. It’s a good murder mystery type story. It felt like reigniting a cold case even though the case was solved - but was it? Such a great story idea! The worst part was dealing with our dummy of a MC.
Sometimes the main character really ruins a book. ⭐️⭐️
If there was a different main character I think I would have loved this. It’s a good murder mystery type story. It felt like reigniting a cold case even though the case was solved - but was it? Such a great story idea! The worst part was dealing with our dummy of a MC.
Sometimes the main character really ruins a book. ⭐️⭐️
Currently reading
December 29, 2025Release date: 07-21-22
Length: 8 hrs and 6 mins
Narrated by Ella Lynch
Stephanie is married to college professor, Oliver, they have two adorable children, and she lives in a lovely house, surrounded by beautiful things. But nine years ago, Stephanie’s flatmate Alison vanished, presumed murdered. It was a horrible time, and Stephanie tried hard not to think about it. When a TV researcher working on a true-crime series wants to interview her about the case, Stephanie is forced to confront the past and she know that confront her nightmares, she needs to find out what happened to Alison. But someone doesn’t want her digging for the truth—and they're willing to do anything to conceal a web of lies...
This story managed to hook me from the beginning. Stephanie was a bit too immature for my taste but to my surprise I enjoyed unraveling the mystery surrounding Alison's disappearance together with Stephanie. There were many characters that were suspicious, so some of the twist weren't very surprising. The ending was well done.
Length: 8 hrs and 6 mins
Narrated by Ella Lynch
Stephanie is married to college professor, Oliver, they have two adorable children, and she lives in a lovely house, surrounded by beautiful things. But nine years ago, Stephanie’s flatmate Alison vanished, presumed murdered. It was a horrible time, and Stephanie tried hard not to think about it. When a TV researcher working on a true-crime series wants to interview her about the case, Stephanie is forced to confront the past and she know that confront her nightmares, she needs to find out what happened to Alison. But someone doesn’t want her digging for the truth—and they're willing to do anything to conceal a web of lies...
This story managed to hook me from the beginning. Stephanie was a bit too immature for my taste but to my surprise I enjoyed unraveling the mystery surrounding Alison's disappearance together with Stephanie. There were many characters that were suspicious, so some of the twist weren't very surprising. The ending was well done.
November 9, 2022
I loved this book. I think it's my favorite of Rijk's books thus far. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator, Ella Lynch, was absolutely AMAZING. Like, 10 stars perfect. Her varied intonations--from posh speakers to male speakers to child speakers--were all so natural.
(One tiny complaint: the title didn't quite fit with the book.)
I was with Stephanie every single step of the way. I felt her paranoia, doubts, pain. I had a few ideas about who/what/how along the way, but the ending reveal(s) came out of nowhere. Yet (and this is what makes this book stand among the best kind of thrillers), it was 100% believable. I loved all the characters. The settings. The story moved slowly but steadily, never once losing steam. 5 very enthusiastic stars for this novel. Brava MR.
(One tiny complaint: the title didn't quite fit with the book.)
I was with Stephanie every single step of the way. I felt her paranoia, doubts, pain. I had a few ideas about who/what/how along the way, but the ending reveal(s) came out of nowhere. Yet (and this is what makes this book stand among the best kind of thrillers), it was 100% believable. I loved all the characters. The settings. The story moved slowly but steadily, never once losing steam. 5 very enthusiastic stars for this novel. Brava MR.
July 20, 2022
4/5 stars
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the advanced listening copy for review!
Stephanie's life has been stable and happy for the last few years-- married to Oliver and raising their lovely kids. Prior to that, however, she experienced the vanishing of her flatmate, Alison, with no real answers as to her disappearance. When a true crime documentary researcher turns up looking for answers, Stephanie is forced to revisit this traumatic experience and question everything she has thought to be true in the last nine years.
This book was a pleasant surprise for me. At the start, I wasn't certain how it would turn out but what a wild and twisty ride! The narrator was easy to listen to and follow. The story was fast-paced, well thought out, and enjoyable. I really couldn't figure out what was going to happen in the end and I felt satisfied with the ending, which is rarely the case. I'm definitely eager to pick up another of Miranda Rijks' books SOON!
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the advanced listening copy for review!
Stephanie's life has been stable and happy for the last few years-- married to Oliver and raising their lovely kids. Prior to that, however, she experienced the vanishing of her flatmate, Alison, with no real answers as to her disappearance. When a true crime documentary researcher turns up looking for answers, Stephanie is forced to revisit this traumatic experience and question everything she has thought to be true in the last nine years.
This book was a pleasant surprise for me. At the start, I wasn't certain how it would turn out but what a wild and twisty ride! The narrator was easy to listen to and follow. The story was fast-paced, well thought out, and enjoyable. I really couldn't figure out what was going to happen in the end and I felt satisfied with the ending, which is rarely the case. I'm definitely eager to pick up another of Miranda Rijks' books SOON!
October 7, 2022
https://wendyreadit.wordpress.com/202...
I had this figured out right from the beginning, well, at least I thought I did. Stephanie and Alison are college flatmates, and, as different as they are, they become friends. College is exactly what they thought it would be, until it isn't and Alison disappears. Time goes by and Stephanie marries and has children with the love of her life, Oliver. When a reporter comes around asking questions about Alison, the nightmares start again and Stephanie feels like she needs to know what happened to Alison if she is going to get through this. The truth comes with a cost. I really liked the narrator and found this audiobook difficult to put down once I got invested in the story. I will be reading more by Miranda Rijks.
I had this figured out right from the beginning, well, at least I thought I did. Stephanie and Alison are college flatmates, and, as different as they are, they become friends. College is exactly what they thought it would be, until it isn't and Alison disappears. Time goes by and Stephanie marries and has children with the love of her life, Oliver. When a reporter comes around asking questions about Alison, the nightmares start again and Stephanie feels like she needs to know what happened to Alison if she is going to get through this. The truth comes with a cost. I really liked the narrator and found this audiobook difficult to put down once I got invested in the story. I will be reading more by Miranda Rijks.
July 20, 2022
I love cold cases that get solved. Unfortunately, that’s all I really liked about this story. The premise was so interesting and there was a lot of room for a great thriller. The problem is Stephanie, the main character; she’s annoying and so naïve that it really ruins the story. Her gullibility was astounding and frustrating. There were some twists and turns, all pretty obvious, with one at the end that just seemed so out of the blue that didn’t even seem plausible. The story started out strong but then started to drag and never quite hit its stride. This just wasn’t for me.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an honest review.
June 28, 2023
When a true crime investigator starts looking into the disappearance of Stephanie’s university flat mate Alison from 9 years ago, it begins a snow ball of questions and secrets to the surface for Stephanie and her family. Then the letters start coming through the door and Stephanie feels there is something she is missing about Alison’s disappearance although her partner Josh was found guilty of her murder.
One thing really bugged me in this book! The non emergency number for the police in the UK is 101 not 111
One thing really bugged me in this book! The non emergency number for the police in the UK is 101 not 111
November 23, 2022
Thank you Netgalley for the kindle copy in exchange for a honest review. Stephanie is married to her old college professor Oliver and they have two children. A TV reaseacher contacts Stephanie asking for a interview as they are investigating the dissapearance of her flat mate Alison nine years ago. This stirs up painful memories for Stephanie and her nighmares start again. Then she realises the devasting truth. A brilliantly written thriller.
December 19, 2022
This is my second Miranda Rijks book that I’ve read this week, safe to say I really enjoy how she unspools a solid mystery! This story was addictive, fast paced and smartly written. I had no idea who to trust and who was guilty until the very end, because who can you trust when EVERYONE is suspicious?! Thank you Netgalley, Inkubator Books and the author for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. Available now
July 17, 2022
I really like reading books where all the characters seem suspicious. This one I suspected everyone but Stephanie and her mom. I didn't get hooked into the book but I did like it. I figured out part of the twist.
This was my first Miranda Rijks book and it won't be my last! She did a great job at really showing us how the character, Stephanie, was feeling. I liked the dual timelines. I feel it helped tell the story.
I listened and read this book. I liked the narrator!
Thank you to NetGalley, Inkubator Books and Dreamscape Media for my copies of this book/audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
This was my first Miranda Rijks book and it won't be my last! She did a great job at really showing us how the character, Stephanie, was feeling. I liked the dual timelines. I feel it helped tell the story.
I listened and read this book. I liked the narrator!
Thank you to NetGalley, Inkubator Books and Dreamscape Media for my copies of this book/audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
August 7, 2022
What She Knew
Miranda Rijks
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book just wasn’t what I expected from Miranda, I feel like her books are normally more exciting but this one just didn’t cut it for me. It did take me a little to finish because I just couldn’t get into it! However Miranda is an amazing writer and I look forward to reading more work by her.
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Miranda Rijks
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book just wasn’t what I expected from Miranda, I feel like her books are normally more exciting but this one just didn’t cut it for me. It did take me a little to finish because I just couldn’t get into it! However Miranda is an amazing writer and I look forward to reading more work by her.
#bookcommunity #bookobsessed #bookstagram #goodreads #goodreadschallenge2022 #ilovebooks #booknerdigans #currentlyreading #library
#readersofinstagram #readingtime #weekendreading #bookworm #readmorebooks #bookwrapup #igbooks #bookreview #bookrecommendations
December 8, 2025
Absorbing thriller, albeit a tad implausible in spots. Three stars for the book, and one for the excellent narrator of the audiobook.
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