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You Know What You Did
TWINKLE, TWINKLE, LITTLE STAR—WE ALL FALL DOWN.
Amanda Roberts has it all—a rich husband, perfect children, and a prosperous life.
But all that is about to change. As a successful author, she has established herself in the elite world of glitz and glamour. But her marriage comes under pressure when she suspects that things aren’t as they should be. If only that was the end of her problems.
When paranoia takes hold, Amanda spirals into a nightmare abyss of immense proportions. There’s no way out, and the clock is ticking ...
There’s somebody in the shadows and they’re looking at YOU.
Amanda Roberts has it all—a rich husband, perfect children, and a prosperous life.
But all that is about to change. As a successful author, she has established herself in the elite world of glitz and glamour. But her marriage comes under pressure when she suspects that things aren’t as they should be. If only that was the end of her problems.
When paranoia takes hold, Amanda spirals into a nightmare abyss of immense proportions. There’s no way out, and the clock is ticking ...
There’s somebody in the shadows and they’re looking at YOU.
- GenresThriller
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2022
7 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Laura Lyndhurst
16 books80 followersI was born and grew up in North London, England, but was unable to attend university when young due to family financial circumstances. Instead, I worked at various occupations, including dental nurse, laboratory assistant and shop assistant.
I married just before I was 20, and travelled to some interesting places around the world, following my husband’s career. I spent much time reading, a passion, but in order to keep further occupied I took office jobs when these were available to me; I hated the work, but the money was useful.
When we were back in the UK I took evening classes at various times and gained ‘A’ levels in Psychology, Sociology and English, eventually settling in Kent with my husband and becoming a mature student and gaining Bachelor's and Master's degrees in English and Literature before training and working as a teacher.
In 2016 we moved to the peace and quiet of rural Lincolnshire, and my sporadic writing activities became more permanent. I self-published Fairytales Don't Come True, my debut novel, in May 2020 and since then have written and published four books of poetry, October Poems, Thanksgiving Poems & Prose Pieces, Poet-Pourri and Social Climbing and Other Poems.
In January 2021 I published a sequel to Fairytales entitled Degenerate, Regenerate, and at the end of March 2021 I published a psychological suspense story, You Know What You Did. A third book was published in June 2021, entitled All That We Are Heir To, to make up the 'Criminal Conversation' trilogy with Fairytales and Degenerate, In November 2022 I published another psychological suspense story, What Else Did You Do?, which is a sequel to You Know What You Did. The work didn't stop, as alongside this sequel I was writing a fourth book to follow the 'Criminal Conversation' trilogy. Entitled 'Innocent, Guilty'. It was published in January 2023, and a fifth book, 'The Future of Our House' came out in June 2023. The sixth and final book is entitled, 'Uphill, Downhill, Over, Out.' A new standalone novel, 'An Honourable Institution' was published in January 2025, followed by 'The Guilty Party' in September 2025.
I try to go for a long walk each day (weather permitting; I’m a fair-weather walker) in the beautiful countryside around us, and exercise for a couple of hours each morning, including use of a hula-hoop and stepping machine. I love food and drink and have spent half my life battling a weight problem. I managed to lose 5 stone of unfortunately-gained weight a few years ago and am determined to never regain it, Unfortunately however Covid and lockdown thwarted those plans, but at least I haven't put it all back on. Hopefully in what's left of 2023 I will manage to lose the excess. Life's certainly not fair in that respect, as every other day is a diet day (for hubby too) but the weight still came back. When not being careful--more often than is desirable these days--we enjoy a good meal with wine.
For other leisure activities I have taught myself to play the recorder--badly, but it keeps the brain cells ticking over. I also listen to music of many types; Tracy Chapman is playing while I write this, and will later be replaced by Leonard Cohen or Katie Melua or any one of dozens of other artists, or by some classical music or opera, another passion.
There’s also reading, something which I have loved since I was a child. I became a convert to eBooks and subscribed to the Kindle Unlimited programme, because although I love physical books, my bookcases are groaning under the weight and I don’t have room for any more. I review everything I read, since I became an author myself and realise the value of these in getting our work in front of as many eyes as possible; but it does mean that I have a large virtual To Be Read pile!
In late 2021 I undertook editorial training and freelance work as a sub-editor. I terminated that work in late 2022, but have my hands full writing my own books and reviewing those of others.
My late
I married just before I was 20, and travelled to some interesting places around the world, following my husband’s career. I spent much time reading, a passion, but in order to keep further occupied I took office jobs when these were available to me; I hated the work, but the money was useful.
When we were back in the UK I took evening classes at various times and gained ‘A’ levels in Psychology, Sociology and English, eventually settling in Kent with my husband and becoming a mature student and gaining Bachelor's and Master's degrees in English and Literature before training and working as a teacher.
In 2016 we moved to the peace and quiet of rural Lincolnshire, and my sporadic writing activities became more permanent. I self-published Fairytales Don't Come True, my debut novel, in May 2020 and since then have written and published four books of poetry, October Poems, Thanksgiving Poems & Prose Pieces, Poet-Pourri and Social Climbing and Other Poems.
In January 2021 I published a sequel to Fairytales entitled Degenerate, Regenerate, and at the end of March 2021 I published a psychological suspense story, You Know What You Did. A third book was published in June 2021, entitled All That We Are Heir To, to make up the 'Criminal Conversation' trilogy with Fairytales and Degenerate, In November 2022 I published another psychological suspense story, What Else Did You Do?, which is a sequel to You Know What You Did. The work didn't stop, as alongside this sequel I was writing a fourth book to follow the 'Criminal Conversation' trilogy. Entitled 'Innocent, Guilty'. It was published in January 2023, and a fifth book, 'The Future of Our House' came out in June 2023. The sixth and final book is entitled, 'Uphill, Downhill, Over, Out.' A new standalone novel, 'An Honourable Institution' was published in January 2025, followed by 'The Guilty Party' in September 2025.
I try to go for a long walk each day (weather permitting; I’m a fair-weather walker) in the beautiful countryside around us, and exercise for a couple of hours each morning, including use of a hula-hoop and stepping machine. I love food and drink and have spent half my life battling a weight problem. I managed to lose 5 stone of unfortunately-gained weight a few years ago and am determined to never regain it, Unfortunately however Covid and lockdown thwarted those plans, but at least I haven't put it all back on. Hopefully in what's left of 2023 I will manage to lose the excess. Life's certainly not fair in that respect, as every other day is a diet day (for hubby too) but the weight still came back. When not being careful--more often than is desirable these days--we enjoy a good meal with wine.
For other leisure activities I have taught myself to play the recorder--badly, but it keeps the brain cells ticking over. I also listen to music of many types; Tracy Chapman is playing while I write this, and will later be replaced by Leonard Cohen or Katie Melua or any one of dozens of other artists, or by some classical music or opera, another passion.
There’s also reading, something which I have loved since I was a child. I became a convert to eBooks and subscribed to the Kindle Unlimited programme, because although I love physical books, my bookcases are groaning under the weight and I don’t have room for any more. I review everything I read, since I became an author myself and realise the value of these in getting our work in front of as many eyes as possible; but it does mean that I have a large virtual To Be Read pile!
In late 2021 I undertook editorial training and freelance work as a sub-editor. I terminated that work in late 2022, but have my hands full writing my own books and reviewing those of others.
My late
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
June 14, 2025
This book will grab your attention and keep it to the last page. Most of us today have some kind of presence on social media and are aware that you do have to be careful about what you say, and who you might offend. After reading this riveting psychological thriller, I am very happy not to be a best selling author riding high on the pedestal of success and fame. We have seen it play out in real life to some well-known writers, and it is not an easy thing to come through unscathed.
The story is told from two perspectives, firstly of Amanda Roberts living a life most would envy with a gorgeous and successful husband, adorable children and a support team to smooth both the domestic and professional sides of her life. The other side of the narration is by someone in the shadows who harbours a deep hatred of Amanda and bitterly resents her success and all she holds dear.
As we follow both, it becomes apparent that for some reason Amanda has deeply offended this person, and when the mystery is eventually revealed, it is something very unexpected. It is something you would not imagine of a highly successful author who has built such a wonderful readership and whose books are bestsellers.
Technology plays its role as the harrassment and intimidation escalates and co-conspirators are manipulated into playing their part in the increasing terror campaign. This impacts not just Amanda’s career but also her personal life with devastating outcomes. Lives fall apart, secrets are revealed and key characters are discovered to not be as wholesome as imagined.
I will admit to having mixed emotions about Amanda Roberts, and there were times when I did rather think she needed a reminder about how privileged she was, but a gentle nudge rather than the full scale onslaught she ended up dealing with.
This is a brilliant fast paced thriller which anyone who has published books or even just become a little too popular on social media can relate to. Great characters, fascinating back stories and a plot which will keep you turning the pages from beginning to end. Highly recommended.
The story is told from two perspectives, firstly of Amanda Roberts living a life most would envy with a gorgeous and successful husband, adorable children and a support team to smooth both the domestic and professional sides of her life. The other side of the narration is by someone in the shadows who harbours a deep hatred of Amanda and bitterly resents her success and all she holds dear.
As we follow both, it becomes apparent that for some reason Amanda has deeply offended this person, and when the mystery is eventually revealed, it is something very unexpected. It is something you would not imagine of a highly successful author who has built such a wonderful readership and whose books are bestsellers.
Technology plays its role as the harrassment and intimidation escalates and co-conspirators are manipulated into playing their part in the increasing terror campaign. This impacts not just Amanda’s career but also her personal life with devastating outcomes. Lives fall apart, secrets are revealed and key characters are discovered to not be as wholesome as imagined.
I will admit to having mixed emotions about Amanda Roberts, and there were times when I did rather think she needed a reminder about how privileged she was, but a gentle nudge rather than the full scale onslaught she ended up dealing with.
This is a brilliant fast paced thriller which anyone who has published books or even just become a little too popular on social media can relate to. Great characters, fascinating back stories and a plot which will keep you turning the pages from beginning to end. Highly recommended.
January 27, 2025
Amanda Roberts, a fabulously successful author, is superstitious, and when she publishes her thirteenth book, things in her life start going terribly wrong. For one, she’s acquired social media trolls and her books are being sabotaged with poor reviews. Though upsetting, she accepts it as part of her professional fame, but her bad luck doesn’t seem to end there. Someone is making her life miserable, and the danger is escalating.
Ah, but then there are the intermittent chapters in the POV of Amanda’s troll, someone who seems bent on ruining her life. I did not like this anonymous woman or the reality of how easy it is to damage someone’s character and career. Except … things aren’t quite that clear cut. Social media smells blood in the water, and Amanda’s mistakes (and a few peripheral choices) compound an already snowballing situation.
This book is full of twists, including some big ones that I didn’t see coming. The pace is speedy, but the hints at what’s happening are cleverly dropped, and they kept me wondering what was really going on until the final reveal. That was super fun and I couldn’t stop thinking about this story after I finished it. It’s one of those books that keeps you deliciously in the dark. I don’t want to give away too much so I’ll leave this psychological thriller with two thumbs up. Highly recommended.
Ah, but then there are the intermittent chapters in the POV of Amanda’s troll, someone who seems bent on ruining her life. I did not like this anonymous woman or the reality of how easy it is to damage someone’s character and career. Except … things aren’t quite that clear cut. Social media smells blood in the water, and Amanda’s mistakes (and a few peripheral choices) compound an already snowballing situation.
This book is full of twists, including some big ones that I didn’t see coming. The pace is speedy, but the hints at what’s happening are cleverly dropped, and they kept me wondering what was really going on until the final reveal. That was super fun and I couldn’t stop thinking about this story after I finished it. It’s one of those books that keeps you deliciously in the dark. I don’t want to give away too much so I’ll leave this psychological thriller with two thumbs up. Highly recommended.
February 6, 2022
Amanda Roberts seems to have it all, and despite her arrogance and high gloss lifestyle, is a sympathetic character to start with. And there is another, a stalker, wannabe writer who harbours a deep seated grudge. The way the story unfolds reveals motives, insecurities and a growing sense of unease in a masterly way. And there is a big reveal which satisfies. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from Laura Lyndhurst!
January 23, 2023
This is the first book I have read by Laura Lyndhurst and I must say I really enjoyed it. Amanda Roberts, who is a well-known author who seems to have it all, has developed a severe case of writer's block. When she is faced with pressure from her publisher, she plagiarizes her next novel. Plagiarism, and the odd fact that this is her 13th novel, sets off a rollercoaster ride of covert revenge dished out by the original author. Ms. Lyndhurst paints a clear picture of what both women are going through with her parallel points of view style of writing. I highly recommend this book. You won't be disappointed.
January 8, 2023
A great story about a woman seeking revenge against another woman for...I'm not going to say so I don't spoil anything. During the story I wasn't sure who I disliked more, which made it even more interesting up until the very end. The pace is fast and the book is highly entertaining and suspenseful. And, if you are a writer, publisher, agent, or tied in anyway to the world of author's and the challenges that accompany writing and publishing a book, you'll appreciate this fictional novel.
April 7, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this riches to rags story. The author has given us an interesting twist to the penalties of plagiarism. I am pretty good at determining 'whodunit', but this writer threw me for a loop. I fell right into her trap and guessed wrong at least three times. I recommend this book if you like surprises.
August 22, 2021
Amanda Roberts has it all. A successful author with thousands of adoring fans, a devoted, loving husband who also happens to be a multi-millionaire, and two perfect children.
But there is someone out there who begrudges Amanda's good fortune and decides to ruin her life.
And so begins a fantastic novel of revenge and, the beauty of this novel is that we don't know the who or the why. Well, the why isn't too hard to figure out but it is how the stalker engineers her revenge that takes this novel to a higher level.
I found myself suspecting the people close to Amanda, in fact, I had everyone she knew in my sights - her staff, her in-laws, even her husband! I don't know why I suspected him, maybe he secretly resented her fame and success. But that's just me - throw a wide net, suspect everyone and you won't be wrong.
But not this time.
The reveal when it came was awesome but, before that we suffered with Amanda as her life began to fall apart, and along the way we stopped sympathising with her. There was just something about her.
Lyndhurst has created such amazing characters and as we, the readers, turn each page our emotions are twisting and turning as we stare at the wreckage of this woman's life.
Do I feel sympathy for Amanda? Yes and no. You'll understand when you read it yourself.
Do I feel sympathy for the stalker? No and then a big, definite yes. Again, I say read it.
Loved it and it is worthy of more than five stars.
But there is someone out there who begrudges Amanda's good fortune and decides to ruin her life.
And so begins a fantastic novel of revenge and, the beauty of this novel is that we don't know the who or the why. Well, the why isn't too hard to figure out but it is how the stalker engineers her revenge that takes this novel to a higher level.
I found myself suspecting the people close to Amanda, in fact, I had everyone she knew in my sights - her staff, her in-laws, even her husband! I don't know why I suspected him, maybe he secretly resented her fame and success. But that's just me - throw a wide net, suspect everyone and you won't be wrong.
But not this time.
The reveal when it came was awesome but, before that we suffered with Amanda as her life began to fall apart, and along the way we stopped sympathising with her. There was just something about her.
Lyndhurst has created such amazing characters and as we, the readers, turn each page our emotions are twisting and turning as we stare at the wreckage of this woman's life.
Do I feel sympathy for Amanda? Yes and no. You'll understand when you read it yourself.
Do I feel sympathy for the stalker? No and then a big, definite yes. Again, I say read it.
Loved it and it is worthy of more than five stars.
October 24, 2021
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: You Know What You Did
Subtitle:
Author: Laura Lyndhurst
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Part of a series? No
Order in series:
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
Written from the 2-point-of-view perspective, this thriller tells the story of a famous female author, married to a millionaire who seemingly has it all. Her nemesis wishes nothing better than her downfall. The reason for this remains hidden until close to the end of the book. With its many twists and turns, it keeps you on the end of your seat.
What I liked about the book:
The book is action-packed, and full of suspense.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I loved the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The book was enjoyable in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I look forward to reading more.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This is a thriller full of suspense.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Maybe
Adult Yes
If you like thrillers, this book may be the book for you. I highly recommend this book.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Amanda Roberts appears to have it all. The only child of prosperous, supportive middle-class parents, she married her first serious boyfriend, successful multi-millionaire businessman Jack Roberts, and has two beautiful children with him, Elsie and Nat. Additionally, she has her own career as a successful and best-selling author.
But now someone is upset with her; badly. And someone is out for revenge.
About the Author:
I was born and grew up in North London, England, but was unable to attend university when young due to family financial circumstances. Instead, I worked at various occupations, including dental nurse, laboratory assistant and shop assistant.
I married just before I was 20, and travelled to some interesting places around the world, following my husband’s career. I spent much time reading, a passion, but in order to keep further occupied I took office jobs when these were available to me; I hated the work, but the money was useful.
When we were back in the UK I took evening classes at various times and gained ‘A’ levels in Psychology, Sociology and English, eventually settling in Kent with my husband and becoming a mature student and gaining Bachelor's and Master's degrees in English and Literature before training and working as a teacher.
In 2016 we moved to the peace and quiet of rural Lincolnshire, and my sporadic writing activities became more permanent. I self-published Fairytales Don't Come True, my debut novel, in May 2020 and since then have written and published two books of poetry, October Poems and Thanksgiving Poems & Prose Pieces. In January 2021 I published a sequel to Fairytales entitled Degenerate, Regenerate and at the end of March 2021 I published a psychological suspense story, You Know What You Did. A third book was published in June 2021 to make a trilogy with Fairytales and Degenerate, entitled All That We Are Heir To. Another psychological suspense story is now underway, along with a small collection of poems.
I usually go for a long walk each day (weather permitting; I’m a fair-weather walker) in the beautiful countryside around us, and exercise for a couple of hours each morning, including use of a hula-hoop and stepping machine. I love food and drink and have spent half my life battling a weight problem. I managed to lose 5 stone of unfortunately-gained weight three years ago and am determined to NEVER regain it! So every other day is a diet day (for hubby too), but when not being careful we enjoy a good meal with wine. Going out to eat is something which I enjoy, although under the current lockdown conditions I’m having to cook at home every day. This was fun for a while, but I’m running out of ideas and really looking forward to the day when I can eat a meal which I haven’t prepared myself.
For other leisure activities I have taught myself to play the recorder; badly, but it keeps the brain cells ticking over. I also listen to music of many types; Tracy Chapman is playing while I write this, and will later be replaced by Leonard Cohen or Katie Melua or any one of dozens of other artists, or by some classical music or opera, another passion.
Oh, and of course there’s reading, something which I have loved since I was a child. I became a convert to eBooks and subscribed to the Kindle Unlimited programme, because although I love physical books, my bookcases are groaning under the weight and I don’t have room for any more. I review everything I read, since I became an author myself and realise the value of these in getting our work in front of as many eyes as possible; but it does mean that I have a large virtual To Be Read pile!
Basic Details:
Book Title: You Know What You Did
Subtitle:
Author: Laura Lyndhurst
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Part of a series? No
Order in series:
Best read after earlier books in series?
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
Written from the 2-point-of-view perspective, this thriller tells the story of a famous female author, married to a millionaire who seemingly has it all. Her nemesis wishes nothing better than her downfall. The reason for this remains hidden until close to the end of the book. With its many twists and turns, it keeps you on the end of your seat.
What I liked about the book:
The book is action-packed, and full of suspense.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I loved the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The book was enjoyable in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I look forward to reading more.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This is a thriller full of suspense.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Maybe
Adult Yes
If you like thrillers, this book may be the book for you. I highly recommend this book.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Amanda Roberts appears to have it all. The only child of prosperous, supportive middle-class parents, she married her first serious boyfriend, successful multi-millionaire businessman Jack Roberts, and has two beautiful children with him, Elsie and Nat. Additionally, she has her own career as a successful and best-selling author.
But now someone is upset with her; badly. And someone is out for revenge.
About the Author:
I was born and grew up in North London, England, but was unable to attend university when young due to family financial circumstances. Instead, I worked at various occupations, including dental nurse, laboratory assistant and shop assistant.
I married just before I was 20, and travelled to some interesting places around the world, following my husband’s career. I spent much time reading, a passion, but in order to keep further occupied I took office jobs when these were available to me; I hated the work, but the money was useful.
When we were back in the UK I took evening classes at various times and gained ‘A’ levels in Psychology, Sociology and English, eventually settling in Kent with my husband and becoming a mature student and gaining Bachelor's and Master's degrees in English and Literature before training and working as a teacher.
In 2016 we moved to the peace and quiet of rural Lincolnshire, and my sporadic writing activities became more permanent. I self-published Fairytales Don't Come True, my debut novel, in May 2020 and since then have written and published two books of poetry, October Poems and Thanksgiving Poems & Prose Pieces. In January 2021 I published a sequel to Fairytales entitled Degenerate, Regenerate and at the end of March 2021 I published a psychological suspense story, You Know What You Did. A third book was published in June 2021 to make a trilogy with Fairytales and Degenerate, entitled All That We Are Heir To. Another psychological suspense story is now underway, along with a small collection of poems.
I usually go for a long walk each day (weather permitting; I’m a fair-weather walker) in the beautiful countryside around us, and exercise for a couple of hours each morning, including use of a hula-hoop and stepping machine. I love food and drink and have spent half my life battling a weight problem. I managed to lose 5 stone of unfortunately-gained weight three years ago and am determined to NEVER regain it! So every other day is a diet day (for hubby too), but when not being careful we enjoy a good meal with wine. Going out to eat is something which I enjoy, although under the current lockdown conditions I’m having to cook at home every day. This was fun for a while, but I’m running out of ideas and really looking forward to the day when I can eat a meal which I haven’t prepared myself.
For other leisure activities I have taught myself to play the recorder; badly, but it keeps the brain cells ticking over. I also listen to music of many types; Tracy Chapman is playing while I write this, and will later be replaced by Leonard Cohen or Katie Melua or any one of dozens of other artists, or by some classical music or opera, another passion.
Oh, and of course there’s reading, something which I have loved since I was a child. I became a convert to eBooks and subscribed to the Kindle Unlimited programme, because although I love physical books, my bookcases are groaning under the weight and I don’t have room for any more. I review everything I read, since I became an author myself and realise the value of these in getting our work in front of as many eyes as possible; but it does mean that I have a large virtual To Be Read pile!
July 20, 2021
My suggestion would be to read this novel before a publisher gets hold of it and the price increases. My reading updates show I went from sixty-six percent to the end without putting it down, unable to put it down.
Amanda Roberts is a successful author, published by a large publishing house and backed up by a team who organise her signings, events, talks etc. Another author, unknown to us, self-published, is angry with Amanda and throughout the story we always wonder why. We don't know who the antagonist is, we may have our suspicions but each character seems to have an alibi at each stage of the nastiness perpetrated on Amanda
.
As I read, I have characters in my head and these two, for me, are the two wives from The Good Life. (Late 70s sitcom, still available).
Lyndhurst doesn't have to describe Amanda to us, her speech, mannerisms, the way she is drawn by the author, point to a Margo Leadbetter type of character; rich enough to not have to work, dependent on a hard working husband and treating authorship as a successful hobby that sees her bathing in the glory of her many fans. (I don't see her hair as moving once placed where it should be).
I see the antagonist as a Barbara Wood looking character, Tom's wife in the same seventies sitcom, baby faced enough to get away as not standing out on revisiting her old Uni. Was she once a friend of Amanda? We don't know.
A sitcom this is not though. Psychological drama, physical drama, more than one plot, twists and turns, this novel has it all.
All will enjoy the psychological drama contained within this novel, all authors, published and self-published should read it. Another excellent Lyndhurst novel (the best I've read this year and entering my top ten reads, ever) and hopefully she will continue down the psychological drama route, this path of keeping her fans guessing. More like this please. Five stars.
Amanda Roberts is a successful author, published by a large publishing house and backed up by a team who organise her signings, events, talks etc. Another author, unknown to us, self-published, is angry with Amanda and throughout the story we always wonder why. We don't know who the antagonist is, we may have our suspicions but each character seems to have an alibi at each stage of the nastiness perpetrated on Amanda
.
As I read, I have characters in my head and these two, for me, are the two wives from The Good Life. (Late 70s sitcom, still available).
Lyndhurst doesn't have to describe Amanda to us, her speech, mannerisms, the way she is drawn by the author, point to a Margo Leadbetter type of character; rich enough to not have to work, dependent on a hard working husband and treating authorship as a successful hobby that sees her bathing in the glory of her many fans. (I don't see her hair as moving once placed where it should be).
I see the antagonist as a Barbara Wood looking character, Tom's wife in the same seventies sitcom, baby faced enough to get away as not standing out on revisiting her old Uni. Was she once a friend of Amanda? We don't know.
A sitcom this is not though. Psychological drama, physical drama, more than one plot, twists and turns, this novel has it all.
All will enjoy the psychological drama contained within this novel, all authors, published and self-published should read it. Another excellent Lyndhurst novel (the best I've read this year and entering my top ten reads, ever) and hopefully she will continue down the psychological drama route, this path of keeping her fans guessing. More like this please. Five stars.
February 2, 2023
A bitter, struggling writer sets out to destroy the life of a best-selling author in this chilling psychological thriller I found hard to put down.
Fueled by resentment and jealousy, an anonymous narrator addresses her target, the hugely successful novelist Amanda Roberts, in a disturbing (and often blackly comic) stream-of-consciousness. It’s ostensibly a classic case of a fan-turned-stalker taking her resentment and jealousy to psychopathic extremes as she embarks on an intricate campaign to dismantle Amanda’s perfect existence. But there’s more to it than that.
As the second narrator, Amanda describes the deepening nightmare she finds herself plunged into. As her happy home life suffers, and her public profile loses its lustre, she starts to suspect there’s more than a random series of misfortunes behind her sudden fall from grace.
What author Laura Lyndhurst does so well here is to alternate the points of view on each significant event, creating a kind of seesaw of suspense. Whenever something bad happens to Amanda, we’re curious to find out what role her nemesis played in it. Likewise, when her nemesis tells us what she’s planning, we can’t wait to see how it actually unfolds from Amanda’s perspective. Added to that, both women are complex, interesting people, with more in common than is at first apparent. And the story doesn’t necessarily go where you’d expect, especially in the second half.
You Know What You Did touches on hot-button topics like identity politics and cancel culture, but it’s much more about the toxicity of fame and fortune. One woman has it and can’t bear to lose it, while the other is dead set on depriving her of it. The result is a wickedly entertaining thriller, written with bite and style, that’s one of the best of its type I’ve read in quite some time.
Highly recommended.
Fueled by resentment and jealousy, an anonymous narrator addresses her target, the hugely successful novelist Amanda Roberts, in a disturbing (and often blackly comic) stream-of-consciousness. It’s ostensibly a classic case of a fan-turned-stalker taking her resentment and jealousy to psychopathic extremes as she embarks on an intricate campaign to dismantle Amanda’s perfect existence. But there’s more to it than that.
As the second narrator, Amanda describes the deepening nightmare she finds herself plunged into. As her happy home life suffers, and her public profile loses its lustre, she starts to suspect there’s more than a random series of misfortunes behind her sudden fall from grace.
What author Laura Lyndhurst does so well here is to alternate the points of view on each significant event, creating a kind of seesaw of suspense. Whenever something bad happens to Amanda, we’re curious to find out what role her nemesis played in it. Likewise, when her nemesis tells us what she’s planning, we can’t wait to see how it actually unfolds from Amanda’s perspective. Added to that, both women are complex, interesting people, with more in common than is at first apparent. And the story doesn’t necessarily go where you’d expect, especially in the second half.
You Know What You Did touches on hot-button topics like identity politics and cancel culture, but it’s much more about the toxicity of fame and fortune. One woman has it and can’t bear to lose it, while the other is dead set on depriving her of it. The result is a wickedly entertaining thriller, written with bite and style, that’s one of the best of its type I’ve read in quite some time.
Highly recommended.
April 6, 2021
I read this book as a beta read for Laura, having also completed - and thoroughly enjoyed - her first two books in her Criminal Conversations series, Fairytales Don't Come True and Degenerate Regenerate, and what a damn good read You Know What You Did was. Yes, my friend, permit yourself leave to call it a thriller, because it was.
Perhaps many authors agonise over trying to come up with a grand plot, and for some, it seems very difficult; what might be overlooked in such instances is the catalyst off which that grand plot springs.
There doesn't need to be anything grand about the catalyst, and this book is a testament to grand plots springing from a simple catalyst.
Well written, elegantly phrased, yet with no fear with respect to showing the reader what runs through the gutters at times.
A work of fiction, yes, but a very believable story gleaned from a very realistic concept.
Perhaps many authors agonise over trying to come up with a grand plot, and for some, it seems very difficult; what might be overlooked in such instances is the catalyst off which that grand plot springs.
There doesn't need to be anything grand about the catalyst, and this book is a testament to grand plots springing from a simple catalyst.
Well written, elegantly phrased, yet with no fear with respect to showing the reader what runs through the gutters at times.
A work of fiction, yes, but a very believable story gleaned from a very realistic concept.
August 20, 2021
An amazing read!
“You Know What You Did” by Laura Lyndhurst is a phenomenal read! I couldn’t put it down, as I was eager to see what would happen next.
The author is astounding as to how she spins this novel, guiding the reader to empathize with the protagonist, Amanda, as she struggles to figure out who is stalking and threatening her. As the book progresses, this amazingly talented author again pulls you deeper into Amanda’s life. We commiserate with her and her family, wondering if they will survive the endless onslaught of intrusions and attacks by an elusive and mysterious enemy.
Then, there are surprising twists and turns as you near the end of this book (of course, I don’t want to give too much away). But Laura Lyndhurst has the unique ability of turning the reader on their ear in this intense novel, making us delve into the frailties of human nature—vanity, greed, jealousy and revenge. I highly recommend “You Know What You Did” and enjoy the ride!
“You Know What You Did” by Laura Lyndhurst is a phenomenal read! I couldn’t put it down, as I was eager to see what would happen next.
The author is astounding as to how she spins this novel, guiding the reader to empathize with the protagonist, Amanda, as she struggles to figure out who is stalking and threatening her. As the book progresses, this amazingly talented author again pulls you deeper into Amanda’s life. We commiserate with her and her family, wondering if they will survive the endless onslaught of intrusions and attacks by an elusive and mysterious enemy.
Then, there are surprising twists and turns as you near the end of this book (of course, I don’t want to give too much away). But Laura Lyndhurst has the unique ability of turning the reader on their ear in this intense novel, making us delve into the frailties of human nature—vanity, greed, jealousy and revenge. I highly recommend “You Know What You Did” and enjoy the ride!
November 17, 2021
One of the best reads in 2021!
A mystery woman, stands alone in the shadows, watching her prey, plotting and planning. Amanda Roberts, author, signing her new book for her loyal and numerous fans. But unexplained happenings started to marr her success. Was it coincidence or revenge of a troubled individual.
This is a fantastic, full on thriller that has you captivated from the start. The clever way this talented author writes about the 2 main characters, you don't know until the very end if Amanda was a innocent victim of some prolonged and jealous encounter or if she had wronged someone in the passed and revenge was being sought for a grave misdeed. The idea of writing the cause and effect relationship between these 2 characters is a brilliant way to keep the story at boiling level and the reader on the edge of their seat. A master of mystery and surprise, this is one of my favourite reads this year. Brilliant job Laura x
A mystery woman, stands alone in the shadows, watching her prey, plotting and planning. Amanda Roberts, author, signing her new book for her loyal and numerous fans. But unexplained happenings started to marr her success. Was it coincidence or revenge of a troubled individual.
This is a fantastic, full on thriller that has you captivated from the start. The clever way this talented author writes about the 2 main characters, you don't know until the very end if Amanda was a innocent victim of some prolonged and jealous encounter or if she had wronged someone in the passed and revenge was being sought for a grave misdeed. The idea of writing the cause and effect relationship between these 2 characters is a brilliant way to keep the story at boiling level and the reader on the edge of their seat. A master of mystery and surprise, this is one of my favourite reads this year. Brilliant job Laura x
November 28, 2022
What a riveting read! With twists and turns that you can’t predict, it’s bound to be a book that keeps you flipping through the chapters from the get-go. While I read a lot of first person books, they’re usually set via present-tense, so getting used to the past-tense + 1st person set up was a little odd, but not enough to take a star off, as it’s a stylistic thing really. When it came down to it, the characters, settings, writing, and plot itself was done very well, and I absolutely LOVE it when authors subvert expectations and keep you not knowing what a certain character is really doing. My emotions toward Amanda went from sympathetic to skeptical to straight up mind blown and shocked!! Lyndhurst takes you for a wild, thrilling ride where you don’t know what to expect - and will be guessing until the end. Needless to say, she has me captured as a reader, and I know I will be returning for more!
October 7, 2021
To start with, I finished the book in one day. I started reading it, but I couldn't stop. I just needed to know what happens next!
The story is about a famous and rich author, mother and wife, Amanda Roberts and on the other hand her stalker. Throughout the chapters, I first felt like "Oh no, poor Amanda, why is this happening to you? Poor you" - but after some time, I felt like she can't be all that perfect. Honestly, I also thought that she faked the whole thing, because she's crazy, or just in desperate need of attention. But guess what? I was wrong.
I find it very obvious to figure out who the "bad guy" is in most stories. But the author Laura Lyndhurst was just messing with my mind all along!
If you are looking for psychological, exciting thriller, then look no further, this is it.
The story is about a famous and rich author, mother and wife, Amanda Roberts and on the other hand her stalker. Throughout the chapters, I first felt like "Oh no, poor Amanda, why is this happening to you? Poor you" - but after some time, I felt like she can't be all that perfect. Honestly, I also thought that she faked the whole thing, because she's crazy, or just in desperate need of attention. But guess what? I was wrong.
I find it very obvious to figure out who the "bad guy" is in most stories. But the author Laura Lyndhurst was just messing with my mind all along!
If you are looking for psychological, exciting thriller, then look no further, this is it.
October 20, 2021
Laura Lyndhurst's, You Know What You Did, engaged me, completely. It threw every insecurity, fear, and horror, real or imaginary, I have ever had as a writer-publisher smack in my face. I thought I had buried all those nasties and had reached an equilibrium, a happy balance in my writing life. Apparently not. Such is the power of Laura's words. There is no appropriation here. Laura, obviously, knows her subject--the writing world--and with talent delivers. And she is not shy on gifting us with her other talents. She is a trickster, extraordinaire. The story has become real for me. It has over-taken my days; It haunts my nights. Well done, Laura. You Know What You Did, is, without dispute, a 5-star winner. Marlene Cheng.
November 4, 2021
Stalker alert!!!!
You know what you did was an absolute page turner and a brilliant read. Amanda Roberts has it all a perfect husband and adorable kids as well as a career as a best selling author. What more could anyone want or need? Well until a stalker arrives on the scene and her perfect life starts falling apart. The author is brilliant at keeping the reader guessing and engaged. You end up suspecting everyone in the book and with the need to understand who is actually doing it which isn’t revealed until the end. This book makes you think about each and every character I was immersed in the book and was unputdownable. Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
You know what you did was an absolute page turner and a brilliant read. Amanda Roberts has it all a perfect husband and adorable kids as well as a career as a best selling author. What more could anyone want or need? Well until a stalker arrives on the scene and her perfect life starts falling apart. The author is brilliant at keeping the reader guessing and engaged. You end up suspecting everyone in the book and with the need to understand who is actually doing it which isn’t revealed until the end. This book makes you think about each and every character I was immersed in the book and was unputdownable. Highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 20, 2023
This is an intriguing psychological thriller which will hold your attention from the beginning to the end. The tale is told from the perspective of two women, and this works well in this novel. Amanda Roberts is a successful author with the world at her feet. She is happily married with two lovely children – but there is someone out there with a grudge against her and a determination to bring Amanda’s world crashing down. Will they succeed? Well, you’ll just have to read it to find out, as I don’t want to give any of the story away. As with all the books by this author, the story is well-paced and beautifully written, and I enjoyed it.
April 2, 2021
Amanda Roberts, wealthy author, huge groups of faithful readers and followers, lots of book signings and promotional tours, glamorous lifestyle, handsome husband and children, she has it all.
Yet, whoever would have thought that writing a book would cause the author so much grief!! Drama, suspense, trauma, an amazing fall from grace, the book has it all. I couldn’t put it down. I’d happily give this book 5 stars PLUS
Yet, whoever would have thought that writing a book would cause the author so much grief!! Drama, suspense, trauma, an amazing fall from grace, the book has it all. I couldn’t put it down. I’d happily give this book 5 stars PLUS
September 28, 2021
Really enjoyed this book, its not my usual genre but when I read the description It sounded interesting and I'm glad I did read it. All the way through it keeps you guessing a real page turner because you want to keep going to find out what happens. Will defanately read more from this author her writing is amazing.
October 14, 2021
Addicting
I read this book in a matter of hours as it keeps you hooked and unable to put it down without finding out what happens next. It's one of those books you won't regret reading.
I read this book in a matter of hours as it keeps you hooked and unable to put it down without finding out what happens next. It's one of those books you won't regret reading.
August 12, 2022
Brilliant!
Beautifully written by Laura Lyndhurst. An amazing plot with some very unexpected twists and turns.
I will look forward to reading more of Laura's books in the near future!
Beautifully written by Laura Lyndhurst. An amazing plot with some very unexpected twists and turns.
I will look forward to reading more of Laura's books in the near future!
September 6, 2021
Successful author Amanda Roberts lives a very fulfilling life with her adoring fans, loving husband, two lovely kids. On top of that, she lives a life of wealth. Unfortunately, life is not perfect, and she attracts the attention of someone who does not “adore” her. This is where the plot becomes complex and intricate. I had to slow down to try and find out who the culprit was, but I couldn’t. I tried to find the “baddie” throughout the story, but the author cleverly hid this bastard from me. I had to bite my nails and wait for the author to reveal who it was. I loved the guessing game throughout the pages. It was gripping, creepy, and deeply emotional. Reading this book was like watching a movie for me. I was that engrossed in it. I now follow this author.
January 3, 2023
Not so perfect
Amanda Roberts life seems perfect. Rich husband, 2 kids and her own bestselling books.
But is all what it seems?
This is a thrilling story and while it took me a few chapters to get into I did enjoy Amanda's more than bumpy ride.
Read as part of a book club
Amanda Roberts life seems perfect. Rich husband, 2 kids and her own bestselling books.
But is all what it seems?
This is a thrilling story and while it took me a few chapters to get into I did enjoy Amanda's more than bumpy ride.
Read as part of a book club
October 31, 2021
Skillfully Written
From start to finish I was in awe. I love a good mystery thriller and that is exactly what I received. Surprise ending that left my mouth wide open. Look forward to more to come.
From start to finish I was in awe. I love a good mystery thriller and that is exactly what I received. Surprise ending that left my mouth wide open. Look forward to more to come.
October 20, 2021
You Know What You Did is an incredible physiological drama. It reads as two journals back to back, with the slow motion crash of two lives, seemingly inevitable.
It will chime with anyone who has ever bullied or been bullied. Anyone who has ever judged or been judged. Anyone who has wronged or been wronged. In other words - anyone.
It also explores the causal public abuse, especially on social media, that we all participate in, suffer, or pass by - almost daily. And awakens fears of rash comments we may have made in our less enlightened pasts.
Oh, and it’s a wonderful who-dun-it.
Well done Laura Lyndhurst.
It will chime with anyone who has ever bullied or been bullied. Anyone who has ever judged or been judged. Anyone who has wronged or been wronged. In other words - anyone.
It also explores the causal public abuse, especially on social media, that we all participate in, suffer, or pass by - almost daily. And awakens fears of rash comments we may have made in our less enlightened pasts.
Oh, and it’s a wonderful who-dun-it.
Well done Laura Lyndhurst.
August 30, 2021
You know you wont be able to put this down!
This is a fantastic suspense thriller with a stalker that is ruining Amanda Roberts life who had it all. Why is her life falling apart that is the question that will keep you guessing. This book will have you gripped from the beginning until the end. You will go through so many emotions of liking Amanda and disliking her. The author is very clever at keeping your attention with this book. Highly recommended.
This is a fantastic suspense thriller with a stalker that is ruining Amanda Roberts life who had it all. Why is her life falling apart that is the question that will keep you guessing. This book will have you gripped from the beginning until the end. You will go through so many emotions of liking Amanda and disliking her. The author is very clever at keeping your attention with this book. Highly recommended.
May 6, 2021
Gripping!
Laura Lyndhurst's You Know What You Did is a book that hooked me right away. Straight off you know a famous personality is being stalked. The chapters alternate between the stalker's viewpoint and the famous author (in this book). The styles of both narrators are different, their thought processes, use of language, etc. Ms Lyndhurst has two other novels (crime-based) but this one is best described as a psychological noose-tightening.
Amanda Roberts and her unnamed stalker are both authors, one is traditionally published and the other is self-published. When a successful writer plagiarises another's already published (albeit self-published) story, the former has hell to pay. But the book has appeal much more than the obvious psychological drama. I am referring to the structure here. The novel, as I said, alternates narratives. The stalker's is italicised for the most part. Towards the end, the structure changes. I won't say more for fear of revealing spoilers but these are subtle touches that make one appreciate the book even more.
Oh, and that closing chapter and final paragraph, you have to buy the book to find out for yourself.
Laura Lyndhurst's You Know What You Did is a book that hooked me right away. Straight off you know a famous personality is being stalked. The chapters alternate between the stalker's viewpoint and the famous author (in this book). The styles of both narrators are different, their thought processes, use of language, etc. Ms Lyndhurst has two other novels (crime-based) but this one is best described as a psychological noose-tightening.
Amanda Roberts and her unnamed stalker are both authors, one is traditionally published and the other is self-published. When a successful writer plagiarises another's already published (albeit self-published) story, the former has hell to pay. But the book has appeal much more than the obvious psychological drama. I am referring to the structure here. The novel, as I said, alternates narratives. The stalker's is italicised for the most part. Towards the end, the structure changes. I won't say more for fear of revealing spoilers but these are subtle touches that make one appreciate the book even more.
Oh, and that closing chapter and final paragraph, you have to buy the book to find out for yourself.
April 28, 2021
This is an excellent book, rightfully called a Psychological Thriller. It is a story told by two authors, one who feels she has been badly wronged by the other, the other living the good life but slowly and surely crashing in her world of author's receptions, book-signings, etc. I won't give away the plot, but assure you you will love this book, even more so if you are an author and familiar with that world.
January 25, 2023
Laura Lyndhurst's You Know What You Did follows the carefully orchestrated downfall of a celebrity author, Amanda Roberts, as orchestrated by a mostly anonymous rival who holds a grudge against her. The novel constantly switches back and forth between the two characters' perspectives, so one chapter might show Roberts' mental deterioration as her life falls apart around her, while the next chapter will give more insight into the unnamed nemesis's obsession with bringing about Roberts' destruction.
What I appreciate most about this book is that it doesn't make either character completely sympathetic. Roberts, the nominal protagonist, has a lot of blind spots and prejudices that are subtly flagged in the early chapters, before they become serious problems for her in the later chapters. Her nemesis, meanwhile, has a justifiable motive for wanting Roberts destroyed, as later chapters reveal that Roberts did seriously screw the other character over in a rather despicable fashion. However, the ends the nemesis goes to are extreme to say the least, and by the end of the book it's clear that she committed several outright felonies to get all the pieces in place. The grey-and-black morality of the novel's alternating narrators make the story much more suspenseful, and leaves the reader with the impression that there may be no such thing as "too far." Very gripping stuff.
This novel also has a really interesting take on the cutthroat world of publishing, both with big traditional presses and with independent publishing services. There are references to certain subscription reading services and digital self-publishing entities that, while never named in the text, are clearly references to Amazon's massive chokehold on the self-publishing space. As someone with a knowledge of that world, I appreciate the way Lyndhurst portrays some of the realities (and frustrations) of authorship in the digital age, as well as how she brings to life some of the nightmare scenarios that every author keeps in the back of their mind.
I do have to take points off for a number of editing errors that I noticed throughout the text, unfortunately. This book could definitely have used a final proofread before publication, but luckily the narrative is solid enough that the copyediting doesn't distract too badly.
What I appreciate most about this book is that it doesn't make either character completely sympathetic. Roberts, the nominal protagonist, has a lot of blind spots and prejudices that are subtly flagged in the early chapters, before they become serious problems for her in the later chapters. Her nemesis, meanwhile, has a justifiable motive for wanting Roberts destroyed, as later chapters reveal that Roberts did seriously screw the other character over in a rather despicable fashion. However, the ends the nemesis goes to are extreme to say the least, and by the end of the book it's clear that she committed several outright felonies to get all the pieces in place. The grey-and-black morality of the novel's alternating narrators make the story much more suspenseful, and leaves the reader with the impression that there may be no such thing as "too far." Very gripping stuff.
This novel also has a really interesting take on the cutthroat world of publishing, both with big traditional presses and with independent publishing services. There are references to certain subscription reading services and digital self-publishing entities that, while never named in the text, are clearly references to Amazon's massive chokehold on the self-publishing space. As someone with a knowledge of that world, I appreciate the way Lyndhurst portrays some of the realities (and frustrations) of authorship in the digital age, as well as how she brings to life some of the nightmare scenarios that every author keeps in the back of their mind.
I do have to take points off for a number of editing errors that I noticed throughout the text, unfortunately. This book could definitely have used a final proofread before publication, but luckily the narrative is solid enough that the copyediting doesn't distract too badly.
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