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If Only She Knew #2
Little Does She Know
Would you destroy your best friend to save your husband...if he's done the unspeakable?
Ginger Mallowan embodies everything the 1980s stand for, from big hair to power suits to "Material Girl"...until her son disappears during a beach walk one night. That's the moment girls don't want to have fun anymore, and the moment she starts hunting for answers.
Now Ginger's hair is a bit flatter, her power suits packed into the attic, and her dance steps to Madonna lack the energy of better days. She hasn't found—or forgotten—her missing son, and she's only survived the grief thanks to her neighbor and keeper of secrets, Tara Christie.
Except for Ginger's darkest secret of all...about what happened the night her son disappeared.
But that vow of friendship is tested when Tara is jarred awake one night by a scream coming from next-door, where she finds Ginger standing over a dead body. Even stranger, Tara's husband is nowhere to be found.
As the investigation shakes the town to its core, and Tara's husband is charged with the murder, Tara must choose between proving her husband's innocence or protecting Ginger's past.
Little does she know they're about to stumble down a twisty path that could destroy them all.
Ginger Mallowan embodies everything the 1980s stand for, from big hair to power suits to "Material Girl"...until her son disappears during a beach walk one night. That's the moment girls don't want to have fun anymore, and the moment she starts hunting for answers.
Now Ginger's hair is a bit flatter, her power suits packed into the attic, and her dance steps to Madonna lack the energy of better days. She hasn't found—or forgotten—her missing son, and she's only survived the grief thanks to her neighbor and keeper of secrets, Tara Christie.
Except for Ginger's darkest secret of all...about what happened the night her son disappeared.
But that vow of friendship is tested when Tara is jarred awake one night by a scream coming from next-door, where she finds Ginger standing over a dead body. Even stranger, Tara's husband is nowhere to be found.
As the investigation shakes the town to its core, and Tara's husband is charged with the murder, Tara must choose between proving her husband's innocence or protecting Ginger's past.
Little does she know they're about to stumble down a twisty path that could destroy them all.
328 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2022
400 people are currently reading
8709 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Crane
25 books792 followersTo know PAMELA CRANE, you first need to know her husband. He sleeps with one eye open. He checks the knife block to make sure none are missing. Why? It could be because they have four kids and a farm full of mischievous animals. Or it could be because she writes murder mysteries, and about the occasional woman who has lost her marbles (not based on her real-life psyche, she swears!) Don't worry—her husband is safe...for now. Her books range from witty whodunnits to psychological suspense and even humorous women’s fiction thrown in for good measure. She’s a USA TODAY bestselling author of over a dozen novels (who’s counting?), but her biggest accomplishment is keeping her zoo of animals alive…and her husband in check. Grab a free book at www.pamelacrane.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
October 9, 2022
2.5⭐
Ginger has had a rather difficult life. Her husband bailed on her, leaving her with young children to raise on her own. One of which mysteriously vanished on a stormy night. Ginger was of course, grief- stricken but needed to keep putting one foot in front of the other for the sake of her remaining son.
Fast forward: Ginger is middle aged (though portrayed as much older than her years). A gunshot and a scream interrupt an otherwise quiet night. Her best friend Tara sprints from next door to find Ginger standing over a dead body. Dun dun dunnnn!😱
Personal Mini rant:
I found Ginger beyond unlikeable. She grated on my nerves like nails on a chalk board. Every description of her and comments she made all related to the 80’s. Ugghh!
Don’t get me wrong, I do love the 80’s. The music, the slang and of course the fashions. (well maybe not that😜). But like they say, everything in moderation. Sorry but this was just too much. I know this author is fond of her 80’s too, but she attempted to cram every bit of the decade into this book. It started to feel over-loaded and forced instead of a fun look back in time. I was left rolling my eyes “I get it already “🙄.
The entire storyline was just too convoluted. I had high hopes going in after reading many positive reviews. But once again, I came away feeling like I read a different book than everyone else.
Thank you to NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group Tabella House
Ginger has had a rather difficult life. Her husband bailed on her, leaving her with young children to raise on her own. One of which mysteriously vanished on a stormy night. Ginger was of course, grief- stricken but needed to keep putting one foot in front of the other for the sake of her remaining son.
Fast forward: Ginger is middle aged (though portrayed as much older than her years). A gunshot and a scream interrupt an otherwise quiet night. Her best friend Tara sprints from next door to find Ginger standing over a dead body. Dun dun dunnnn!😱
Personal Mini rant:
I found Ginger beyond unlikeable. She grated on my nerves like nails on a chalk board. Every description of her and comments she made all related to the 80’s. Ugghh!
Don’t get me wrong, I do love the 80’s. The music, the slang and of course the fashions. (well maybe not that😜). But like they say, everything in moderation. Sorry but this was just too much. I know this author is fond of her 80’s too, but she attempted to cram every bit of the decade into this book. It started to feel over-loaded and forced instead of a fun look back in time. I was left rolling my eyes “I get it already “🙄.
The entire storyline was just too convoluted. I had high hopes going in after reading many positive reviews. But once again, I came away feeling like I read a different book than everyone else.
Thank you to NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group Tabella House
July 18, 2022
Oh, Pamela Crane…I just love how your books never fail to reel me in and amuse me in the best ways possible!
In the mid-80’s, in between grooving to Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” and watching “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”, Ginger Mallowan’s world was rocked when one of her two young sons went missing during a terrible storm on the beach in front of her house. He was never seen again and presumed to have drowned.
In the present day, Ginger lives next to her considerably younger best friend, Tara. Her son, Benson, has recently moved back in with her. She’s still haunted by the disappearance of her other son, Cole, almost 40 years ago.
One stormy night, the sound of a gunshot wakes Tara. A scream leads her to Ginger’s door, and to a dead body on her floor. Tara’s husband is charged with the murder.
While Tara has no idea what is going on, it seems like everyone around her might be keeping secrets. What is Ginger hiding? What is Tara’s husband hiding? Who can she trust?
I knew I was in for a treat with Crane’s latest. Her books are always twisty, bonkers, and so much fun. Let’s not forget the dark and compelling plots and highly memorable characters. There are a few moments that seem a tad bit ridiculous in a thriller…but I think they are in there for that very reason, and they are 100% amusing!
There were some surprises I truly never expected, and I had a hard time putting down this compelling and delicious novel. Fans of everything 80’s will get a kick out of the flashback POVs, and the book does a great job balancing humor and dark undertones.
I’m thrilled to know that this is part of a trilogy, and can’t wait to read about more of these characters in Crane’s upcoming novel, She Knows Too Much (coming out in 2023). I need that book RIGHT MEOW!
Now available.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
In the mid-80’s, in between grooving to Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” and watching “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”, Ginger Mallowan’s world was rocked when one of her two young sons went missing during a terrible storm on the beach in front of her house. He was never seen again and presumed to have drowned.
In the present day, Ginger lives next to her considerably younger best friend, Tara. Her son, Benson, has recently moved back in with her. She’s still haunted by the disappearance of her other son, Cole, almost 40 years ago.
One stormy night, the sound of a gunshot wakes Tara. A scream leads her to Ginger’s door, and to a dead body on her floor. Tara’s husband is charged with the murder.
While Tara has no idea what is going on, it seems like everyone around her might be keeping secrets. What is Ginger hiding? What is Tara’s husband hiding? Who can she trust?
I knew I was in for a treat with Crane’s latest. Her books are always twisty, bonkers, and so much fun. Let’s not forget the dark and compelling plots and highly memorable characters. There are a few moments that seem a tad bit ridiculous in a thriller…but I think they are in there for that very reason, and they are 100% amusing!
There were some surprises I truly never expected, and I had a hard time putting down this compelling and delicious novel. Fans of everything 80’s will get a kick out of the flashback POVs, and the book does a great job balancing humor and dark undertones.
I’m thrilled to know that this is part of a trilogy, and can’t wait to read about more of these characters in Crane’s upcoming novel, She Knows Too Much (coming out in 2023). I need that book RIGHT MEOW!
Now available.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
January 16, 2023
Love a mystery with a multitude of 80's references? This is the book for you. A little boy disappears off the beach as a storm is brewing in 1986. His mother Ginger frantically searches for him and mourns his loss all the way to the present day. Since her clothes from the 80's still fit, of course she still wears them. Waste not, want not, am I right? While the plot is full of surprises and centers around the mysterious death of Ginger's only remaining son in 2022, there are still some humorous moments as well. Not quite a cozy, but the series is setting up to have an eclectic support cast. The Epilogue is a teaser for the next book in the series: If Only She Knew -- it's available for just 99 cents on Amazon right now. Already downloaded onto my Kindle.
June 2, 2022
I'm a proud child of the 1980s. Give me all the leg warmers and Jane Fonda aerobics and Material Girl! In honor of the best decade with the catchiest music and the flashiest fashion, I've been dying to write an eighties throwback thriller that alternates between a missing child in 1986, and a modern-day murder. Press play for your favorite Michael Jackson cassette tape (I'd recommend "Bad" or "Thriller" if we're going to stay in theme here) and join me in 1986, readers!
Ginger and Tara are best friends who live in the cursed town of Bloodson Bay. Literally, there's a curse that seems to plague the residents ever since the town's founding father murdered his family. And now this curse has somehow found Ginger.
When her son disappears from the beach back in 1986, her life fell apart. But now, almost 40 years later, things are looking better. Her bestie, Tara, lives next-door. Life is good...until Ginger wakes up to find a dead body in her backyard.
But this isn't your typical mystery.
Because the prime suspect is her best friend's husband.
Tara's put in a pretty awful predicament--wanting to help Ginger solve the murder, but not wanting to slap a guilty verdict on her husband. This whole BFF vs. Hubby dilemma was inspired by a BFF getaway, a late night, and a bottle of wine one weekend, as I pondered who I would pick if forced to choose: the friend who has supported me all my life, or my husband who is the father of my children? Who would you pick?
Sometimes our spouses betray us. But so can our friends.
I hope you enjoy this twisty thriller while drinking a Lifesaver cola (ew, only in the 80s--and if you don't believe this was an actual soda, look it up) with an awesome soundtrack.
Ginger and Tara are best friends who live in the cursed town of Bloodson Bay. Literally, there's a curse that seems to plague the residents ever since the town's founding father murdered his family. And now this curse has somehow found Ginger.
When her son disappears from the beach back in 1986, her life fell apart. But now, almost 40 years later, things are looking better. Her bestie, Tara, lives next-door. Life is good...until Ginger wakes up to find a dead body in her backyard.
But this isn't your typical mystery.
Because the prime suspect is her best friend's husband.
Tara's put in a pretty awful predicament--wanting to help Ginger solve the murder, but not wanting to slap a guilty verdict on her husband. This whole BFF vs. Hubby dilemma was inspired by a BFF getaway, a late night, and a bottle of wine one weekend, as I pondered who I would pick if forced to choose: the friend who has supported me all my life, or my husband who is the father of my children? Who would you pick?
Sometimes our spouses betray us. But so can our friends.
I hope you enjoy this twisty thriller while drinking a Lifesaver cola (ew, only in the 80s--and if you don't believe this was an actual soda, look it up) with an awesome soundtrack.
June 20, 2022
Ginger Mallowan is a Material Girl…until her son disappears. It brings to mind my own memories of the 80s: upbeat music, disco dancing, the clothes, big hair (though mine was always long and straight).
Tara Christie is her next door neighbor, the keeper of secrets and her best friend, but a dead body and her missing husband may change all that.
We do start out with a Prologue: Reginald Bloodson, the reason Bloodson Bay, North Caroline, exists. He went from bliss to despair when he lost his wife during childbirth, leading him to madness. On the anniversary of the tragedy, the town feels the gloom. Could they be cursed?
1986: Ginger Mallowan’s 16 month old son, Cole, goes missing. Thirty six years later, Ginger pulls out an evidence storage box. She is too stubborn to let it go. The guilt eats at her. Her other son, Benny, grew up and I am not feeling too good about the man he has become. The town is struck with more murder and disappearances.
NOW, it is getting really good. When I read about Ginger going down the stairs anticipating a hand reaching between the slats and grabbing her ankle, I remember feeling the same way in my childhood home.
A Bloodson may always win, but a Mallowan never surrendered. And Ginger wouldn’t. I felt for her, especially the more I learned about her. I love both of these women, Ginger and Tara. They are strong. Tara saves horses doomed to be pet food. And then we have rich men, thinking the world is their personal playground. I think we will be hearing more about Tara in the next book.
Pamela Crane has so much depth to her characters, whether good or bad, victims or villains. Some dialogue had me fuming, wondering if I would be able to contain my feelings or let rage rule. Good luck trying to solve the mystery amongst all the lies and secrecy surrounding the characters.
Little Does She Know by Pamela Crane is filled with lies and deceit, loss and despair, love and forgiveness…And, yes, I do like a happy ever after, though I couldn’t resist the tease she supplies at the end leading to the next book in the If She Only Knew series.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Little Does She Know by Pamela Crane.
Tara Christie is her next door neighbor, the keeper of secrets and her best friend, but a dead body and her missing husband may change all that.
We do start out with a Prologue: Reginald Bloodson, the reason Bloodson Bay, North Caroline, exists. He went from bliss to despair when he lost his wife during childbirth, leading him to madness. On the anniversary of the tragedy, the town feels the gloom. Could they be cursed?
1986: Ginger Mallowan’s 16 month old son, Cole, goes missing. Thirty six years later, Ginger pulls out an evidence storage box. She is too stubborn to let it go. The guilt eats at her. Her other son, Benny, grew up and I am not feeling too good about the man he has become. The town is struck with more murder and disappearances.
NOW, it is getting really good. When I read about Ginger going down the stairs anticipating a hand reaching between the slats and grabbing her ankle, I remember feeling the same way in my childhood home.
A Bloodson may always win, but a Mallowan never surrendered. And Ginger wouldn’t. I felt for her, especially the more I learned about her. I love both of these women, Ginger and Tara. They are strong. Tara saves horses doomed to be pet food. And then we have rich men, thinking the world is their personal playground. I think we will be hearing more about Tara in the next book.
Pamela Crane has so much depth to her characters, whether good or bad, victims or villains. Some dialogue had me fuming, wondering if I would be able to contain my feelings or let rage rule. Good luck trying to solve the mystery amongst all the lies and secrecy surrounding the characters.
Little Does She Know by Pamela Crane is filled with lies and deceit, loss and despair, love and forgiveness…And, yes, I do like a happy ever after, though I couldn’t resist the tease she supplies at the end leading to the next book in the If She Only Knew series.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Little Does She Know by Pamela Crane.
November 8, 2022
Everything about this was so anticlimactic. Ginger lost her son years ago, but she knows who he is and where he has been the whole time. Her son is a horrible person, but he writes a nice letter for no apparent reason and suddenly that's all taken care of too. Chris apparently doesn't know how to talk to his wife at all, and Nora got community service for murder?? Yeah I don't think so. Not sure what the point of this story was meant to be at all but wasn't worth the read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2023
Meghan Kelly’s narrating of Ginger and the incessant 80’s references made this an irritating experience. I just kept speeding up and fast forwarding which cut out 2.5 hours. 😮💨
October 17, 2022
This is the first book in a trilogy by Pamela Crane but interestingly can also be read as a standalone. There are two endings dependant on whether you plan to read more of this series.
I have enjoyed several books by this author but strangely I struggled a little with this one. I didn’t particularly like any of the characters and never really felt any true compulsion to finish it. Pamela Crane is a very good author and like I say I have enjoyed previous books so probably more down to my tastes in literature than the authors efforts.
The story features Ginger Mallowan whose son disappears during a beach walk back in the eighties. Her son is never found and now almost forty years later she gets through life with the help of her best friend Tara who lives next door.
Their friendship is about to be tested when Tara is awoken by screams in the middle of the night. The screaming is coming from next door and when Tara goes to investigate she finds Ginger standing over the dead body of Tara’s son. When the police arrive on the scene they arrest Tara’s husband. Tara needs to decide between proving her husband’s innocence or protecting Ginger’s past.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Independent Publishers Group for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I have enjoyed several books by this author but strangely I struggled a little with this one. I didn’t particularly like any of the characters and never really felt any true compulsion to finish it. Pamela Crane is a very good author and like I say I have enjoyed previous books so probably more down to my tastes in literature than the authors efforts.
The story features Ginger Mallowan whose son disappears during a beach walk back in the eighties. Her son is never found and now almost forty years later she gets through life with the help of her best friend Tara who lives next door.
Their friendship is about to be tested when Tara is awoken by screams in the middle of the night. The screaming is coming from next door and when Tara goes to investigate she finds Ginger standing over the dead body of Tara’s son. When the police arrive on the scene they arrest Tara’s husband. Tara needs to decide between proving her husband’s innocence or protecting Ginger’s past.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Independent Publishers Group for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2022
Wow what a twister..
Things that will blow your mind..
Things that seem impossible but are true.. Pamela Crane has a way of pulling you in and won't let you go..
Each book Just gets better and better..
What I just read. Everyone needs to read if you're a Pamela Crane fan.. Like me.. You must read this book.. It's like wow. So freaking good you will not want to put it down that's not a lie so freaking good this book I didn't want it to end and that's a good thing there's more to come.
Ginger,
As a young woman loses not only her husband but a child.. This haunts her for her life the loss of a child.. And then as she becomes older . Meets her best friend Tara.. After moving in next door..
16 years best friends. With Tara. Becomes friends and almost like family with Tara's whole family.. This book is absolutely incredible I just don't want to give anything away and I highly recommend everybody that is a Pamela Crane Fan and even if you're not definitely read this book OMG so so so so Damm good.
I just can't say enough about this book it's so good I love it thank you again Pamela Crane.. you absolutely rock..
I have to say this is my favorite book so far this year.. This is book #64...
Things that will blow your mind..
Things that seem impossible but are true.. Pamela Crane has a way of pulling you in and won't let you go..
Each book Just gets better and better..
What I just read. Everyone needs to read if you're a Pamela Crane fan.. Like me.. You must read this book.. It's like wow. So freaking good you will not want to put it down that's not a lie so freaking good this book I didn't want it to end and that's a good thing there's more to come.
Ginger,
As a young woman loses not only her husband but a child.. This haunts her for her life the loss of a child.. And then as she becomes older . Meets her best friend Tara.. After moving in next door..
16 years best friends. With Tara. Becomes friends and almost like family with Tara's whole family.. This book is absolutely incredible I just don't want to give anything away and I highly recommend everybody that is a Pamela Crane Fan and even if you're not definitely read this book OMG so so so so Damm good.
I just can't say enough about this book it's so good I love it thank you again Pamela Crane.. you absolutely rock..
I have to say this is my favorite book so far this year.. This is book #64...
June 26, 2022
Wow, I just finished reading Little Does She Know by Pamela Crane and this book blew my mind! I’ve been reading her books for as long as they’ve been being published, so yes I’m a big fan, but this one, well this one is really intense. It’s got a little bit of everything. It’s a mystery, it’s full of suspense and a bit of a psychological thriller. It’s about 2 best friends, but overall, it’s really all about family. There’s heartache and loss, a child abduction, a murder and finding lost family when you least expect it. There are so many twists and turns that you won’t see coming. I really believe that with each new book, they just keep getting better and better. If you want edge of your seat excitement where you feel like you can’t set the book down, then I recommend you check this one out. I know I loved it and can’t wait to read She Knows Too Much which is the next book in this new series. I’d like to thank Pamela Crane for writing such great stories. I don’t know how she does it, but as long as she keeps writing, I’ll keep reading! This is definitely a 5 star read!
July 1, 2022
Loved this book, flowed well the characters were great kept my interest all the way through and I can't wait till the next book!!!
June 6, 2022
Thank you Pamela Crane for my gifted copy!
Synopsis:
When both Ginger's sons were children, one of them was taken by the beach. So the now old lady devoted her whole life caring for her other son, Benny. But when, one night, Benny is shot, the neighbors Ginger is really close to become the prime suspects. And there's a reason Ginger wants to protect them, no matter the cost.
My thoughts:
I enjoyed all of the twists and turns this story had to offer, and the plot really lured me in. I liked following the protagonists around on their way to discover the truth. The scene with the murder and the cover-up was a bit unrealistic - like, some people seemed pretty calm about it and not seeming to question what was going on. All in all, I really enjoyed this book - particularly the fact that it has two endings!
This was my third book by this author, and my favorite is The Sister In Law.
Synopsis:
When both Ginger's sons were children, one of them was taken by the beach. So the now old lady devoted her whole life caring for her other son, Benny. But when, one night, Benny is shot, the neighbors Ginger is really close to become the prime suspects. And there's a reason Ginger wants to protect them, no matter the cost.
My thoughts:
I enjoyed all of the twists and turns this story had to offer, and the plot really lured me in. I liked following the protagonists around on their way to discover the truth. The scene with the murder and the cover-up was a bit unrealistic - like, some people seemed pretty calm about it and not seeming to question what was going on. All in all, I really enjoyed this book - particularly the fact that it has two endings!
This was my third book by this author, and my favorite is The Sister In Law.
June 18, 2023
☆☆☆☆
This first book in the latest series by Pamela Crane is a wild and entertaining ride! “If Only She Knew”—Book Two—has been on my Kindle with that beautiful cover calling to me. Now to find the time to squeeze it in.
If you loved the 80s, Ginger will worm her way into your heart. When her husband leaves and she’s left to raise her boys alone, she’s left with some hard choices and a lot of rough times ahead. This is a suspenseful thriller that is filled with unexpected surprises. But it’s also filled with Ginger’s unique personality and humor!
I love the unusual way Ms. Crane finishes the book. The reader can choose to stop reading the book at the ending that wraps things up nicely…or continue to read on and get a taste of the next mystery in the series!
#LittleDoesSheKnow #pamelacrane #bookseries #thrillermystery #audiobooknerd #honestreview #audiobookreview #backtothe80s #IfOnlySheKnewBookOne #OrangeSkyAudio #LibbyAudiobook #thrillerfriendsunite #mysteryandthrills #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #bookstagrammer #justfinished #igbookreels #thriller #suspense #thrillersofinstagram #bookreviewersofinstagram #lovetoreadbooks #cantstopreading #fortheloveofbooks
This first book in the latest series by Pamela Crane is a wild and entertaining ride! “If Only She Knew”—Book Two—has been on my Kindle with that beautiful cover calling to me. Now to find the time to squeeze it in.
If you loved the 80s, Ginger will worm her way into your heart. When her husband leaves and she’s left to raise her boys alone, she’s left with some hard choices and a lot of rough times ahead. This is a suspenseful thriller that is filled with unexpected surprises. But it’s also filled with Ginger’s unique personality and humor!
I love the unusual way Ms. Crane finishes the book. The reader can choose to stop reading the book at the ending that wraps things up nicely…or continue to read on and get a taste of the next mystery in the series!
#LittleDoesSheKnow #pamelacrane #bookseries #thrillermystery #audiobooknerd #honestreview #audiobookreview #backtothe80s #IfOnlySheKnewBookOne #OrangeSkyAudio #LibbyAudiobook #thrillerfriendsunite #mysteryandthrills #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #bookstagrammer #justfinished #igbookreels #thriller #suspense #thrillersofinstagram #bookreviewersofinstagram #lovetoreadbooks #cantstopreading #fortheloveofbooks
October 31, 2022
It looks like I’m in the minority on this “1980s throwback thriller,” but this one was only okay for me, maybe because I was expecting something else. It’s billed as a psychological thriller, but it really has a cozy mystery vibe in some ways. Tara is amateur sleuthing to hopefully find out that her husband isn’t a murderer. A lot of the prose feels light and sometimes humorous, rather than dark or spooky. There are cutesy names like the town being called Bloodson Bay and the ladies living on Deadnettle Drive. A redhead named Ginger… those kinds of things.
I didn’t really like any of the characters. I didn’t vibe with Ginger at all. I wanted to like Tara more, but she was kind of wishy-washy. The other characters treat her like a doormat, and she doesn’t really do anything to stand up for herself. For example, when another character tells Tara that several people close to her were aware of a major secret but didn’t tell her because she doesn’t always see herself clearly, tends to overreact to things, etc, she agrees instead of getting mad like most people would.
And then there’s the 80s references… look, I’m an 80s kid and I usually love those types of throwback references. Unfortunately, there are just SO many of them – sometimes multiple references in a single paragraph – that it’s distracting in those sections. They often seem to be thrown in for the express purpose of showcasing the author’s pop culture knowledge, because they don’t really add anything to the story.
Although it wasn’t for me, I do think there are many readers who will enjoy this book, especially if you like your thrillers on the light side or if you’re looking the feel of a cozy mystery with an edge.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group, Tabella House for providing me an advance copy of this book.
I didn’t really like any of the characters. I didn’t vibe with Ginger at all. I wanted to like Tara more, but she was kind of wishy-washy. The other characters treat her like a doormat, and she doesn’t really do anything to stand up for herself. For example, when another character tells Tara that several people close to her were aware of a major secret but didn’t tell her because she doesn’t always see herself clearly, tends to overreact to things, etc, she agrees instead of getting mad like most people would.
And then there’s the 80s references… look, I’m an 80s kid and I usually love those types of throwback references. Unfortunately, there are just SO many of them – sometimes multiple references in a single paragraph – that it’s distracting in those sections. They often seem to be thrown in for the express purpose of showcasing the author’s pop culture knowledge, because they don’t really add anything to the story.
Although it wasn’t for me, I do think there are many readers who will enjoy this book, especially if you like your thrillers on the light side or if you’re looking the feel of a cozy mystery with an edge.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group, Tabella House for providing me an advance copy of this book.
July 26, 2022
I received a free Kindle copy of this novel in a Goodreads giveaway, and I enjoyed it. This mystery teems with '80s throwback references to popular culture of that decade: movie quotes, fashion, and music, so would be more enjoyable to those of us who lived through those times. The author took me back to those days when things seemed so much lighter and happier than what the 2020's have brought us. The plot was creative and convoluted at times, but I enjoyed the ride and twists. I loved the character of Ginger, who was unapologetic about "livin' in the 80s." (Actually, I used to have a CD with that title!) This would be a great beach read, given the coastal setting.
A few little dings, since I am a born & bred North Carolina gal: As far as I know, there are no cliffs in coastal NC; it is dead flat. Same with "rich black soil", since it is a sandy area. Someone correct me if I am wrong and there is indeed a black loamy area with cliffs where people could fall or be pushed off of, and I will consider myself educated -- I grew up in the Piedmont so only know the coast from family beach trips over the years. I do know that I am right about this, though: The tree is "Crape Myrtle", not "Crepe Myrtle". This mistake is made all the time and rarely caught by editors.
A few little dings, since I am a born & bred North Carolina gal: As far as I know, there are no cliffs in coastal NC; it is dead flat. Same with "rich black soil", since it is a sandy area. Someone correct me if I am wrong and there is indeed a black loamy area with cliffs where people could fall or be pushed off of, and I will consider myself educated -- I grew up in the Piedmont so only know the coast from family beach trips over the years. I do know that I am right about this, though: The tree is "Crape Myrtle", not "Crepe Myrtle". This mistake is made all the time and rarely caught by editors.
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July 23, 2022Dual pov
2 Timelines
Written in 1st person, past tense.
Prepare your music app of choice for an 80s playlist!
Set in a cursed corrupted town full of unsavoury characters, and a Covid mask reference so you don't forget it's set in our 2022.
This is a quick twisty plot driven read, easily devoured.
Crane does like family secrets & lies, and ghosts from the past returning!
In fact, I recognised many of the same elements and devices present in A Slow Ruin.
And I guessed all the reveals 🙈 There was one where I was like "I don't know how, but it has to be so". I just felt it in my gut, and I was so right, and therefore mad and disgusted!
I really liked Ginger, she's such a quirky resilient survivor! She infuses a humour to the story. Love her 80s vintage closet! Why throw perfectly good clothes away when fashion is always recycling itself?
Tara isn't the brightest tool in the shed at times, she jumps the gun and overreacts, but she is sturdy and resilient! I can't agree with her brother enough as she goes basically blaming people left and right, making me question her loyalties! She also treats her 16yo daughter like a baby 🙄
Yeah. So, she was annoying at times, but at least (so far) she seems to be the only honest one.
I won't lie, this moment made me tear up:
"Benny held out his pinkie, hooking it around mine. “I pinkie swear to stop him, Mommy. I won’t let him hurt us anymore."
Use of the word "exotic" to describe a woman of color. It's 2022, haven't we grown past this already?
It comes with an epilogue that we can choose to read or not. If we want the book to end on a happy note, we don't continue. But we do read it, if we want to get a cliffhanging segue into the sequel.
Acceptable murder mystery. Some details could be refined. Not much character development. Characters appearing and being ignored, depending on how convenient they are atm. Sloane going to the final family reveal reunion didn't make sense to me.
2 Timelines
Written in 1st person, past tense.
Prepare your music app of choice for an 80s playlist!
Set in a cursed corrupted town full of unsavoury characters, and a Covid mask reference so you don't forget it's set in our 2022.
This is a quick twisty plot driven read, easily devoured.
Crane does like family secrets & lies, and ghosts from the past returning!
In fact, I recognised many of the same elements and devices present in A Slow Ruin.
And I guessed all the reveals 🙈 There was one where I was like "I don't know how, but it has to be so". I just felt it in my gut, and I was so right, and therefore mad and disgusted!
I really liked Ginger, she's such a quirky resilient survivor! She infuses a humour to the story. Love her 80s vintage closet! Why throw perfectly good clothes away when fashion is always recycling itself?
Tara isn't the brightest tool in the shed at times, she jumps the gun and overreacts, but she is sturdy and resilient! I can't agree with her brother enough as she goes basically blaming people left and right, making me question her loyalties! She also treats her 16yo daughter like a baby 🙄
Yeah. So, she was annoying at times, but at least (so far) she seems to be the only honest one.
I won't lie, this moment made me tear up:
"Benny held out his pinkie, hooking it around mine. “I pinkie swear to stop him, Mommy. I won’t let him hurt us anymore."
Use of the word "exotic" to describe a woman of color. It's 2022, haven't we grown past this already?
It comes with an epilogue that we can choose to read or not. If we want the book to end on a happy note, we don't continue. But we do read it, if we want to get a cliffhanging segue into the sequel.
Acceptable murder mystery. Some details could be refined. Not much character development. Characters appearing and being ignored, depending on how convenient they are atm. Sloane going to the final family reveal reunion didn't make sense to me.
June 27, 2022
I enjoyed this book very much - lots of secrets and suspense !
Ginger is living in a house on the beach, that her grandfather built and which was left to her by her parents.
It's the 80's and her husband has abandoned her and her two small kids, and life has become hard for her.
One day, she goes to the beach with her two sons, and the youngest one of the two - just a toddler - gets abducted.
However, the officials declare it a drowning, although the body is never found...
Skip to the present time:
Ginger has moved out of her beach house a long time ago, into a new home.
After her only remaining son has been divorced, he is moving back in with his mom.
But it seems that he wants to get his mom to sell the house and put her in a "old folks home"... until one night, where someone kills the son in the middle of the night...in a rain storm...
But wait - there's more (of course).
Ginger's best friend and her family get involved and it gets dicey - everyone is a suspect.
But wait - there's still more...
Well, I can't tell any more since I can't give the whole story away.
HOWEVER:
Friendship is in jeopardy, family gets reunited and secrets come to the surface.
Very good story, very many twists, very enjoyable !
Get yourself a copy and get to know colorful and suspicious Ginger, still fronting her style of the 80's...
July 2, 2022
Omg
I couldn't quit reading this book, it pulled me in from the first page! At the same time I didn't want it to be over, luckily for everyone there's a second book in the series coming out. I loved the characters! I can't wait til the next book comes out! Pamela Crane is so awesome for writing these amazing books!
I couldn't quit reading this book, it pulled me in from the first page! At the same time I didn't want it to be over, luckily for everyone there's a second book in the series coming out. I loved the characters! I can't wait til the next book comes out! Pamela Crane is so awesome for writing these amazing books!
February 15, 2023
3.5 stars
July 9, 2022
Wow. Definitely a good read. So many twists and turns. I loved it. Can't wait to read the next one when it comes out.
July 6, 2022
" ASTONISHING "
I'm not sure I can find all the words to properly describe why everyone should read this! The story is thrilling until the last page! The characters you will learn to love! I am a first and now forever a huge fan of this author! It does not disappoint !!! 💞🙏
I'm not sure I can find all the words to properly describe why everyone should read this! The story is thrilling until the last page! The characters you will learn to love! I am a first and now forever a huge fan of this author! It does not disappoint !!! 💞🙏
August 22, 2022
Ever read a book with so much going on you were lost? Well Little Does She Know was that for me, but on ACID! Wow, talk about so much happening but in the end it all kind of came together. I think there's a few bits I'd like answers to still but am sure in future books I'll probably get those.
I've only read a couple of Pamela's (Author) books recently so am still learning her style, but with characters like Ginger and her crazy 80's fashion and movie trivia/lines (I was born in the 70s so understand 100% of them!!) and Tara and her lovely family its hard not to get in deep with them and love the book. I read this over 2 sittings and even went to bed trying to work out who the killer was and the reason why. I didn't work it out I should add!!
This was a super fun read, its good to read a book when there really isn't romance or anything. Just pure friendship. Honestly, it was refreshing! Plus reading about Ginger who's in her 60's (Hope I got that right) made it hard not to like the woman. She was funny but in a good way. Eccentric definitely, but 100% fun. I liked Tara, although her jumping to conclusions and constant finger pointing did drive me a little insane. However, you could easily imagine these two being friends even with the 30+ year gap.
The story had a good pace, although did flit about all over the place and keep heading back to the 80s without warning. But like I said before, everything made sense in the end. Somethings you could see happening a mile off, but would question yourself as that would be too crazy surely?! Anything is possible in these books I think. A solid 4 star read, I'm looking forward to reading other books in this series!
I've only read a couple of Pamela's (Author) books recently so am still learning her style, but with characters like Ginger and her crazy 80's fashion and movie trivia/lines (I was born in the 70s so understand 100% of them!!) and Tara and her lovely family its hard not to get in deep with them and love the book. I read this over 2 sittings and even went to bed trying to work out who the killer was and the reason why. I didn't work it out I should add!!
This was a super fun read, its good to read a book when there really isn't romance or anything. Just pure friendship. Honestly, it was refreshing! Plus reading about Ginger who's in her 60's (Hope I got that right) made it hard not to like the woman. She was funny but in a good way. Eccentric definitely, but 100% fun. I liked Tara, although her jumping to conclusions and constant finger pointing did drive me a little insane. However, you could easily imagine these two being friends even with the 30+ year gap.
The story had a good pace, although did flit about all over the place and keep heading back to the 80s without warning. But like I said before, everything made sense in the end. Somethings you could see happening a mile off, but would question yourself as that would be too crazy surely?! Anything is possible in these books I think. A solid 4 star read, I'm looking forward to reading other books in this series!
September 7, 2022
I so wanted to like this one given the 80’s throwback element, but yikes, was it bad. 😬 The whole storyline felt flimsy and unbelievable. (To be fair, a lot of mysteries are unbelievable, but this one had every character acting a fool just for the sake of the story.) The 80’s add-ins were so forced and over the top that they were annoying. For example, when I was griping to my husband about how bad they were, I read him the paragraph I happened to be at, which managed to reference the song Hungry Like the Wolf, headbands, aerobics, Jane Fonda, leotards, leggings, leg warmers and Lady’s Choice deodorant, all in the span of a short paragraph. And, apparently it wasn’t enough to add 80’s references, the author really wanted you to know she added them, so they always felt forced and unnatural. (Things like…I picked up Stephan King’s It, currently topping the best seller lists, to read for a bit. 🙄) I think perhaps the author was trying to be campy, but it didn’t work for me. And on top of all that, I pegged the killer just shy of the 20% mark. 😕
July 1, 2022
Little Does She Know is Pamela Crane’s newest psychological thriller and the first book of her If Only She Knew Series. Pamela Crane knows how to write great thrillers and I love her books!!! This is a mind blowing story told in dual perspectives and timelines. Filled with all the suspense, mystery, secrets, family drama and murder, then she adds friendship, loyalty and love to it! The twist and turns will make your head spin. You will be on the edge of your seat the whole time you are reading it! Ms. Crane never disappoints with her books and she has a winner with this one. Buckle up and hold on because you are in for one heck of a ride!!! I cannot wait for She Knows to Much, the second book in this phenomenal series!!
Thank you Pamela Crane for writing such awesome books!!! I am a HUGE fan!!!!
#littledoessheknow #pamelacrane #tabellahouse
#psychologicalthrillers
Thank you Pamela Crane for writing such awesome books!!! I am a HUGE fan!!!!
#littledoessheknow #pamelacrane #tabellahouse
#psychologicalthrillers
November 10, 2022
This is a well written book with a great plot. It has a lot going on, and from the beginning , you quickly want to know what is going on. It is one of the better books I’ve read, and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author. As you read, you are wondering what mysteries the protagonist holds, but then, you are quickly swept up into another mystery with seemingly different protagonist(s). The author ties up all of these mysteries into a tight, neat, satisfying bow. I also loved the extra parts that include a horse rescue. There is a tease for a future book, but in no way do you feel like you are left hanging. It is just an extension of characters. I’m anxious to read it as well.
July 28, 2022
Loving Pamela Crane’s writing style and can’t wait for the next installment of this series! The 80’s references were so well done (90’s baby but 80’s at heart) couldn’t put it down extremely creative
July 15, 2022
Review of eBook
Ginger Mallowan hasn’t had an easy life. Her husband left, her toddler son disappeared from the beach one stormy night, she lost her family home.
Thirty-some years later, Ginger is still in Bloodson Bay, living next door to Tara Christie. Over the years, Ginger and Tara have become best friends. Ginger’s son, Benny, has moved in with his mother; Tara lives with her husband, Chris, and daughter, Nora. Tara has a somewhat complicated relationship with her mother, Eloise, whom she considers a drama queen.
But one night, someone is dead and both Ginger and Tara discover that things are not as they’d thought. Can this friendship survive the secrets and lies?
=========
First in a new series, this is a book filled with twists and turns as the unfolding story continually surprises readers. Throughout the story, readers discover unanticipated bits of backstory that continue to build the intrigue and the suspense.
Strong, believable characters populate the story; some are unlikeable, but realistic. The unfolding story runs the gamut of emotions . . . in a tale filled with secrets and lies, despair plays a large role as does tragedy and loss. At the other end of the spectrum, love always remains. And there’s forgiveness.
Hearts wrench at Ginger’s losses; hearts smile at Tara’s propensity to save the horses from becoming dog food. There is much to like, much to appreciate, in both the characters and the telling of the tale. The story begins with a bang and never lets up, pulling readers in from the outset.
Told alternately by Ginger and Tara, the narrative keeps readers guessing as revelations change everything and give the story an unexpected twist.
Some readers may find developments in the story to be overwhelming, requiring a bit too much suspension of disbelief. Nevertheless, it’s a compelling read that most will find difficult to set aside before turning the final page.
Recommended.
Ginger Mallowan hasn’t had an easy life. Her husband left, her toddler son disappeared from the beach one stormy night, she lost her family home.
Thirty-some years later, Ginger is still in Bloodson Bay, living next door to Tara Christie. Over the years, Ginger and Tara have become best friends. Ginger’s son, Benny, has moved in with his mother; Tara lives with her husband, Chris, and daughter, Nora. Tara has a somewhat complicated relationship with her mother, Eloise, whom she considers a drama queen.
But one night, someone is dead and both Ginger and Tara discover that things are not as they’d thought. Can this friendship survive the secrets and lies?
=========
First in a new series, this is a book filled with twists and turns as the unfolding story continually surprises readers. Throughout the story, readers discover unanticipated bits of backstory that continue to build the intrigue and the suspense.
Strong, believable characters populate the story; some are unlikeable, but realistic. The unfolding story runs the gamut of emotions . . . in a tale filled with secrets and lies, despair plays a large role as does tragedy and loss. At the other end of the spectrum, love always remains. And there’s forgiveness.
Hearts wrench at Ginger’s losses; hearts smile at Tara’s propensity to save the horses from becoming dog food. There is much to like, much to appreciate, in both the characters and the telling of the tale. The story begins with a bang and never lets up, pulling readers in from the outset.
Told alternately by Ginger and Tara, the narrative keeps readers guessing as revelations change everything and give the story an unexpected twist.
Some readers may find developments in the story to be overwhelming, requiring a bit too much suspension of disbelief. Nevertheless, it’s a compelling read that most will find difficult to set aside before turning the final page.
Recommended.
July 4, 2022
Review of Little Does She Know by Pamela Crane
This a story of devotion, hope, memories, despair, loss and redemption.
A two year old boy wanders away on a beach and is presumed dead by everyone except his mother who knows in her heart that her child is not dead. Although she spends nearly 40 years looking for this lost child, she pours all of her love and meager resources into her older son, Benny.
In the 40 years that she devoted to her remaining son, the house that her grandparent has built was falling around her, was falling apart around her; she had no means with which to repair it and a real estate mogul was hounding her to sell it because of its desirable location. Several times she was sure that she had seen the son that had wandered off only to have her suspicions rebuffed by all she told, and the fact, as they put it, is that the child had died.
Pamela Crane has the ability to put us squarely in the lives of her characters, to feel and understand what drives them. She puts us in the minds and in the room with them. We can watch their conversations and their behaviors as though we are looking at each as they express themselves.
If you like a multi-faceted mystery with real-life characters and many twists and turns that keep you guessing to the very end. You will love this story.
I highly recommend it. Fritzi Redgrave
This a story of devotion, hope, memories, despair, loss and redemption.
A two year old boy wanders away on a beach and is presumed dead by everyone except his mother who knows in her heart that her child is not dead. Although she spends nearly 40 years looking for this lost child, she pours all of her love and meager resources into her older son, Benny.
In the 40 years that she devoted to her remaining son, the house that her grandparent has built was falling around her, was falling apart around her; she had no means with which to repair it and a real estate mogul was hounding her to sell it because of its desirable location. Several times she was sure that she had seen the son that had wandered off only to have her suspicions rebuffed by all she told, and the fact, as they put it, is that the child had died.
Pamela Crane has the ability to put us squarely in the lives of her characters, to feel and understand what drives them. She puts us in the minds and in the room with them. We can watch their conversations and their behaviors as though we are looking at each as they express themselves.
If you like a multi-faceted mystery with real-life characters and many twists and turns that keep you guessing to the very end. You will love this story.
I highly recommend it. Fritzi Redgrave
July 3, 2022
Hard to put down suspense.
Tara and Ginger have been friends for years. Their friendship is put to the test after a murder happens and lie after lie starts coming out.
Good character development. I could related to both Tara and Ginger which contributed to my enjoyment of the book. The plot goes back and forth from the 80s to current day; with a beginning as far back as the 1800s. The story flows smoothly with clues dropped here and there, and twists and turns to go along with them. Even though I was able to figure out a couple of the mysteries, the author still manage to give me a jaw dropping moment in regards to one of them. I love how the author left the ending up to the reader; if they wanted a happy ending, stop reading. If they wanted to know more about the next book in the series, keep reading. I opted to keep reading, and can’t wait to read book two.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions expressed are
my own.
Tara and Ginger have been friends for years. Their friendship is put to the test after a murder happens and lie after lie starts coming out.
Good character development. I could related to both Tara and Ginger which contributed to my enjoyment of the book. The plot goes back and forth from the 80s to current day; with a beginning as far back as the 1800s. The story flows smoothly with clues dropped here and there, and twists and turns to go along with them. Even though I was able to figure out a couple of the mysteries, the author still manage to give me a jaw dropping moment in regards to one of them. I love how the author left the ending up to the reader; if they wanted a happy ending, stop reading. If they wanted to know more about the next book in the series, keep reading. I opted to keep reading, and can’t wait to read book two.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions expressed are
my own.
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