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What July Knew
July knows 18 things about her mother. But not the truth.
Summer, 1995. On her tenth birthday, July's teacher sets the class a project to find out about a relation they don't know. It's easy for July to choose her subject. She doesn't remember her mother, who died when she was small, and her father refuses to talk about her. Ever. The only memories she has of her are flashbacks from the accident that claimed her mother's life.
But then she receives the note: 'She didn't die in a car accident.'
Determined to discover what really happened, July begins to investigate, cycling around the street where her family used to live and questioning the neighbours. When she is caught snooping round a crumbling house at the end of the road, she learns that the man living there was the last person to see July's mother alive.
In his version of the story, he is a hero. In everyone else's, he is anything but...
A compelling and moving mystery about family, community and the secrets people keep to protect those they love. Perfect for fans of Joanna Cannon, Jo Browning Wroe and Janice Hallett.
Praise for Emily Koch:
'Really well-written, deeply moving and psychologically affecting... Highly recommended' Alex Michaelides, author of The Silent Patient
'A debut to be reckoned with' Guardian
'Packs a real emotional punch.' Cara Hunter, author of Close to Home
336 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2023
70 people are currently reading
3179 people want to read
About the author
Emily Koch
7 books163 followersEmily Koch is an award-winning writer living in Bristol, UK, with her husband and daughters.
She is the author of three novels: If I Die Before I Wake, Keep Him Close and What July Knew.
Her books have been shortlisted for the Crime Writers’ Association Ian Fleming Steel Dagger award, longlisted for the Authors' Club Best First Novel Award, and selected as a Waterstones Thriller of the Month. The French translation of If I Die Before I Wake also won the inaugural crime fiction prize, Prix du Bureau des Lecteurs, in 2021.
If I Die Before I Wake was described as ‘a debut to be reckoned with’ (Guardian), and others have called her work ‘exhilarating’ (Daily Mail), ‘twisty, emotional and addictive’ (The Sun) and ‘tense drama’ (The Times). Waterstones have called her ‘one of the most exciting new crime writers of our day’.
She is the author of three novels: If I Die Before I Wake, Keep Him Close and What July Knew.
Her books have been shortlisted for the Crime Writers’ Association Ian Fleming Steel Dagger award, longlisted for the Authors' Club Best First Novel Award, and selected as a Waterstones Thriller of the Month. The French translation of If I Die Before I Wake also won the inaugural crime fiction prize, Prix du Bureau des Lecteurs, in 2021.
If I Die Before I Wake was described as ‘a debut to be reckoned with’ (Guardian), and others have called her work ‘exhilarating’ (Daily Mail), ‘twisty, emotional and addictive’ (The Sun) and ‘tense drama’ (The Times). Waterstones have called her ‘one of the most exciting new crime writers of our day’.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 360 reviews
January 26, 2023
It’s July 1995 and there’s a heatwave, the kind that boils your blood and induces rage which is always easy to achieve for Mick Hooper, father of July aged ten. July has a notebook in which she writes and stores great questions (they really are great questions too!) and she wants to know about her mum Maggie who is never talked about especially how her life ended. July however, has flashbacks to the accident that claims her. July has listed eighteen things she knows about Maggie but does she dare ask for more information especially as Mick’s reaction is likely to be aggressive? Dare she even consider doing the school project Miss Glover has set over the summers hols to research and write about a little known family member? Then it starts to get twisty and mysterious when July gets a note which claims Maggie didn’t die in a car accident. July sets off on a quest to find the truth and learns that people are hiding a multitude of secrets.
Wow! Emily Koch is one talented writer that’s for sure, I’ve very much enjoyed her books but this one is the most powerful and emotional one so far. The portrayal of July is superb and some of the images the author uses to link (or thread) her to Maggie are wonderful and really resonate. Poor July, she’s so in the dark about so much, she’s not in the secret but others are. It’s an elusive, enigmatic puzzle for her and she has so few pieces and some don’t fit though she gets the scent or a whiff of some truths which then evaporate. She’s a brave, clever intuitive girl who is very easy to like. Mick makes you so angry and despite all his horrific actions July still seeks his love and even justifies his actions. The dynamics in the blended family with stepmother Shell and stepsister Sylvia are incredibly well done too and you tense as they do when Mick walks in the room.
To describe the plot as increasing in intensity is somewhat of an understatement as I can scarcely breathe towards the end. This is clearly not an easy story as domestic violence never is but Emily Koch tells it well, it’s never gratuitous though leaves you in little doubt. This is a gripping, compelling novel from beginning to end.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK/Vintage for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Wow! Emily Koch is one talented writer that’s for sure, I’ve very much enjoyed her books but this one is the most powerful and emotional one so far. The portrayal of July is superb and some of the images the author uses to link (or thread) her to Maggie are wonderful and really resonate. Poor July, she’s so in the dark about so much, she’s not in the secret but others are. It’s an elusive, enigmatic puzzle for her and she has so few pieces and some don’t fit though she gets the scent or a whiff of some truths which then evaporate. She’s a brave, clever intuitive girl who is very easy to like. Mick makes you so angry and despite all his horrific actions July still seeks his love and even justifies his actions. The dynamics in the blended family with stepmother Shell and stepsister Sylvia are incredibly well done too and you tense as they do when Mick walks in the room.
To describe the plot as increasing in intensity is somewhat of an understatement as I can scarcely breathe towards the end. This is clearly not an easy story as domestic violence never is but Emily Koch tells it well, it’s never gratuitous though leaves you in little doubt. This is a gripping, compelling novel from beginning to end.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Random House UK/Vintage for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
January 28, 2023
July Hooper lived with her father Mick, her step-mother Shelley and her step sister Sylvie. She was almost ten years old and didn't remember her mother, who, she'd been told, had been hit by a car and killed when July was only two years old. She had a list of things she knew about her mother, but they didn't amount to much. She was desperate for more information, but her father wouldn't talk about her mother, ever. And if she asked him questions, he got angry and she had another Lesson. The day she turned ten, her teacher set an assignment for over the holidays. Everyone needed to pick a family member to work on, finding more information about them, and July wanted to do her mum. And when she discovered a note in her bag on that same day, July's course in life was changed.
Riding her bike to where she used to live, July wondered who she could ask to get more answers. But the more things she discovered, the more questions she had. And when Mick found out, he was angry again - another Lesson was coming and she knew she deserved it. Would she ever find the truth, or would she only get lies for the rest of her life?
What July Knew by Emily Koch is an intense read, with some excellent characters. July was strong and determined, even while she was terrified. Sylvie wasn't as strong as July until something happened to someone she loved - then she changed. July's grandmother, Yaya, was filled with guilt and remorse, while being a loving grandmother. The book has a lot of domestic violence running through it for those who are triggered by it. For my first read by this author, it was one I enjoyed, and also one I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Kate Neilan of Penguin Random House, UIK, for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Riding her bike to where she used to live, July wondered who she could ask to get more answers. But the more things she discovered, the more questions she had. And when Mick found out, he was angry again - another Lesson was coming and she knew she deserved it. Would she ever find the truth, or would she only get lies for the rest of her life?
What July Knew by Emily Koch is an intense read, with some excellent characters. July was strong and determined, even while she was terrified. Sylvie wasn't as strong as July until something happened to someone she loved - then she changed. July's grandmother, Yaya, was filled with guilt and remorse, while being a loving grandmother. The book has a lot of domestic violence running through it for those who are triggered by it. For my first read by this author, it was one I enjoyed, and also one I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and Kate Neilan of Penguin Random House, UIK, for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2023
In What July knew Emily Koch shows what a great talent she has for voicing people you don’t normally hear in books. Here it is a 10-year-old girl. July is living with her father, Mick Hooper, her stepmother Auntie Shell and her stepsister Sylvie. Poor July has to live according to a lot of rules – rules set by the other family members. Her father is very strict and often Teaches Her A Lesson, Sylvie is as mean as any jealous stepsister can be and Auntie Shell means well but is too weak to do anything against Micks and Sylvies behaviors, although she sincerely loves July.
July already knew a lot of things, but she still has a lot of questions too. She writes everything down in her notebook and is set on finding the answers, especially for the questions she has regarding her mother. The most important question in this book is: did July’s mother die when July was two or not?
It is very hard not to feel for all characters. July is abused by her father, but thinks she deserves it. Her father abuses her for a very special reason, and although it is never, never ok to abuse your child (or partner), he is full of sorrow and pain too. Auntie Shell tries to change Mick, but you can never change someone who doesn’t want to be changed. Sylvie is just not happy she suddenly must share the love from her mother with two other people.
At the start of the very hot summer of 1995 July’s teacher gives all children homework to do for the holidays – and July thinks it would be a good idea to dedicate this to her mother. Sadly, not a very good idea.
I just loved reading about July and how determined she was. She’s a wonderful character and I’m happy the author decided to give us a small peek in her future too. At times it is a disturbing book to read, at other times it brought a smile to my face. Excellent! I’m looking forward to the next book by Emily Koch.
Thanks to Random House and Netgalley for this review copy.
July already knew a lot of things, but she still has a lot of questions too. She writes everything down in her notebook and is set on finding the answers, especially for the questions she has regarding her mother. The most important question in this book is: did July’s mother die when July was two or not?
It is very hard not to feel for all characters. July is abused by her father, but thinks she deserves it. Her father abuses her for a very special reason, and although it is never, never ok to abuse your child (or partner), he is full of sorrow and pain too. Auntie Shell tries to change Mick, but you can never change someone who doesn’t want to be changed. Sylvie is just not happy she suddenly must share the love from her mother with two other people.
At the start of the very hot summer of 1995 July’s teacher gives all children homework to do for the holidays – and July thinks it would be a good idea to dedicate this to her mother. Sadly, not a very good idea.
I just loved reading about July and how determined she was. She’s a wonderful character and I’m happy the author decided to give us a small peek in her future too. At times it is a disturbing book to read, at other times it brought a smile to my face. Excellent! I’m looking forward to the next book by Emily Koch.
Thanks to Random House and Netgalley for this review copy.
November 10, 2022
It is the summer of 1995 and there is a heatwave. But it is also July Hoopers tenth birthday. She wished her mother was with her, but she has been told that she died in a car crash when she was two years old. She yearns to find out about her mother as she has flashbacks of the little time, she spent with her and wonders if she herself looks or acts like her but, when she asks the people that knew her, including her father nobody will tells her anything. Her dad gets angry when she mentions her. Not just because of him but her has now moved on with Stepmother and stepsister Stacey. She goes on a journey to discover more about her mother. But it is not all plain sailing. Especially regards to her father who abuses her not just her his relationship he has with her stepmother.
Thank you, Random House for a copy of What July Knew by Emily Koch. I have read the authors previous novels which I really enjoyed, so I was interested in her latest offering. This is a powerful and emotional story of July’s trying to find out about her mother and her own identity. I felt sorry for July as why wouldn’t she told the truth and why is she being treated in this way. There is some hard subjects dealt with in this story but the author has written it sensitive way. 5 stars from me.
Thank you, Random House for a copy of What July Knew by Emily Koch. I have read the authors previous novels which I really enjoyed, so I was interested in her latest offering. This is a powerful and emotional story of July’s trying to find out about her mother and her own identity. I felt sorry for July as why wouldn’t she told the truth and why is she being treated in this way. There is some hard subjects dealt with in this story but the author has written it sensitive way. 5 stars from me.
September 3, 2022
This is one of the most enjoyable books I have read this year, an emotional family mystery with excellent characters that will pull at your heart strings.
It's 1995 and for ten year old July life is a collection of mysteries. She doesn't remember her mother, who died when she was small, and her father refuses to talk about her. All she has are flashbacks from the accident that claimed her mother's life. She asks questions regarding her mother whenever there is an opening to try and piece some sort of memory of her. Then out of nowhere she receives a note telling her that her mother didn't die in a car accident, but struggles to find out the truth because her father's reluctance to talk of his wife.
July needs to know the truth and is determined to discover what really happened. She cycles to where her family used to live to question neighbours but there appears to be a general reluctance to tell her anything she can hold on to. She meets a neighbour who lived next door to them and she learns that he was the last person to see July's mother alive. The neighbours story is completely different to the little she already knows.
Beautifully written with great characters and perfectly paced.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Random House UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
It's 1995 and for ten year old July life is a collection of mysteries. She doesn't remember her mother, who died when she was small, and her father refuses to talk about her. All she has are flashbacks from the accident that claimed her mother's life. She asks questions regarding her mother whenever there is an opening to try and piece some sort of memory of her. Then out of nowhere she receives a note telling her that her mother didn't die in a car accident, but struggles to find out the truth because her father's reluctance to talk of his wife.
July needs to know the truth and is determined to discover what really happened. She cycles to where her family used to live to question neighbours but there appears to be a general reluctance to tell her anything she can hold on to. She meets a neighbour who lived next door to them and she learns that he was the last person to see July's mother alive. The neighbours story is completely different to the little she already knows.
Beautifully written with great characters and perfectly paced.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Random House UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2023
”This rare ribbon of information was handed over by her grandma, who promptly realised she had pulled it loose from the forbidden fabric of conversation that was July’s mother, and pinned her lips shut.”
What July Knew is the third novel by award-winning British author, Emily Koch. July Hooper has always wanted to know more about her mother, but there doesn’t seem to be anyone she can ask who isn’t distressed by it in some way. It brings her Yaya, Maggie Hooper’s mother, to tears, and asking the one person who would know everything, her dad, just makes him angry.
There are eighteen facts she has collected from random comments made by people who knew her, and each one she treasures: “These facts were a precious collection of ribbons, scraps of thread and shreds of cotton, the odd button and a sequin – each torn from the patchwork quilt of actions and wishes and feelings that, sewn together over a lifetime, had made up her mother.”
She has, in her notebook, a Big List of Questions she would like to ask, cleverly written in code so no-one who might see it could be upset. She already knows Fact Number 15: her mother always had stiff shoulders from the hours she spent hunched over her sewing machine, so “Did Mariah Carey ever do any upholstery?“ is really a question about Maggie Hooper.
Then four things set her on a tenacious path to find out more: her year-five teacher sets a Summer Project to learn about a relative, living or dead; a note in her workbook has her doubting what she knows about her mother’s death; her beloved Yaya gives her the freedom of a bicycle for her birthday; and her best friend Katie-Jaye is away visiting grandparents for the summer vacation.
She will have to do it surreptitiously, so no-one gets annoyed with her, but it turns out that some of those around her believe she has a right to know what really happened.
On her bike, July happens upon Almond Drive, the street where the family used to live before Maggie Hooper was hit by a car when July was two. Now they live with dad’s new wife, Auntie Shell and her daughter Sylvie Rose (and her Stepsister Rules), in Harmony Court. But her search, aided by a bundle of photos and snippets of information, leads her to someone who knows the truth.
While it’s July who narrates the story, other characters occasionally set the scene or provide some backstory. Supplementing the narrative are letters that hint at tragic consequences of July’s investigations. Eventually revealed, along with Maggie’s actual fate and other secrets, is a daughter desperate for love, and so anxious to please her controlling, gaslighting father that she rationalises away his cruelty and violence as he “Teaches Her A Lesson”.
With its ten-year-old protagonist and English village setting, as well as Koch’s gorgeous descriptive prose, this novel is initially reminiscent of Joanna Cannon’s The Trouble With Goats And Sheep, and is equally satisfying. Koch’s plot is expertly crafted, with a few red herrings and twists that will have the reader, at the reveal, marvelling at how it was done.
Koch’s characters can’t help but endear themselves to the reader, and any first-time reader of her work will find it hard to resist seeking out her backlist. Intense and moving, this is an utterly captivating mystery.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Random House UK/Vintage.
What July Knew is the third novel by award-winning British author, Emily Koch. July Hooper has always wanted to know more about her mother, but there doesn’t seem to be anyone she can ask who isn’t distressed by it in some way. It brings her Yaya, Maggie Hooper’s mother, to tears, and asking the one person who would know everything, her dad, just makes him angry.
There are eighteen facts she has collected from random comments made by people who knew her, and each one she treasures: “These facts were a precious collection of ribbons, scraps of thread and shreds of cotton, the odd button and a sequin – each torn from the patchwork quilt of actions and wishes and feelings that, sewn together over a lifetime, had made up her mother.”
She has, in her notebook, a Big List of Questions she would like to ask, cleverly written in code so no-one who might see it could be upset. She already knows Fact Number 15: her mother always had stiff shoulders from the hours she spent hunched over her sewing machine, so “Did Mariah Carey ever do any upholstery?“ is really a question about Maggie Hooper.
Then four things set her on a tenacious path to find out more: her year-five teacher sets a Summer Project to learn about a relative, living or dead; a note in her workbook has her doubting what she knows about her mother’s death; her beloved Yaya gives her the freedom of a bicycle for her birthday; and her best friend Katie-Jaye is away visiting grandparents for the summer vacation.
She will have to do it surreptitiously, so no-one gets annoyed with her, but it turns out that some of those around her believe she has a right to know what really happened.
On her bike, July happens upon Almond Drive, the street where the family used to live before Maggie Hooper was hit by a car when July was two. Now they live with dad’s new wife, Auntie Shell and her daughter Sylvie Rose (and her Stepsister Rules), in Harmony Court. But her search, aided by a bundle of photos and snippets of information, leads her to someone who knows the truth.
While it’s July who narrates the story, other characters occasionally set the scene or provide some backstory. Supplementing the narrative are letters that hint at tragic consequences of July’s investigations. Eventually revealed, along with Maggie’s actual fate and other secrets, is a daughter desperate for love, and so anxious to please her controlling, gaslighting father that she rationalises away his cruelty and violence as he “Teaches Her A Lesson”.
With its ten-year-old protagonist and English village setting, as well as Koch’s gorgeous descriptive prose, this novel is initially reminiscent of Joanna Cannon’s The Trouble With Goats And Sheep, and is equally satisfying. Koch’s plot is expertly crafted, with a few red herrings and twists that will have the reader, at the reveal, marvelling at how it was done.
Koch’s characters can’t help but endear themselves to the reader, and any first-time reader of her work will find it hard to resist seeking out her backlist. Intense and moving, this is an utterly captivating mystery.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Random House UK/Vintage.
January 26, 2023
It is the summer of 1995 and there is a heatwave. But it is also July Hoopers tenth birthday. She wished her mother was with her, but she has been told that she died in a car crash when she was two years old. She yearns to find out about her mother as she has flashbacks of the little time, she spent with her and wonders if she herself looks or acts like her but, when she asks the people that knew her, including her father nobody will tells her anything. Her dad gets angry when she mentions her. Not just because of him but her has now moved on with Stepmother and stepsister Stacey. She goes on a journey to discover more about her mother. But it is not all plain sailing. Especially regards to her father who abuses her not just her his relationship he has with her stepmother.
Thank you, Random House for a copy of What July Knew by Emily Koch. I have read the authors previous novels which I really enjoyed, so I was interested in her latest offering. This is a powerful and emotional story of July’s trying to find out about her mother and her own identity. I felt sorry for July as why wouldn’t she told the truth and why is she being treated in this way. There is some hard subjects dealt with in this story but the author has written it sensitive way. 5 stars from me.
Thank you, Random House for a copy of What July Knew by Emily Koch. I have read the authors previous novels which I really enjoyed, so I was interested in her latest offering. This is a powerful and emotional story of July’s trying to find out about her mother and her own identity. I felt sorry for July as why wouldn’t she told the truth and why is she being treated in this way. There is some hard subjects dealt with in this story but the author has written it sensitive way. 5 stars from me.
January 15, 2023
What a different read!
I loved Koch's 'if I die before I wake', and as soon as I saw the blurb, I knew it was one I wanted on my TBR.
This is a huge change of direction for the author, but she is talented enough to be great at both genres in my opnion!
July, our protaganist is a very unusual character, and I adored her. She has a very difficult childhood, and has so many questions about the death of her mother, and who her mother was as a person. This broke my heart, she had me questioning things about my own mother's life too. July's mum list was amazing, and had me hooked throughout as we learned new things and how things might not be as they first appeared.
Brilliant.
I loved Koch's 'if I die before I wake', and as soon as I saw the blurb, I knew it was one I wanted on my TBR.
This is a huge change of direction for the author, but she is talented enough to be great at both genres in my opnion!
July, our protaganist is a very unusual character, and I adored her. She has a very difficult childhood, and has so many questions about the death of her mother, and who her mother was as a person. This broke my heart, she had me questioning things about my own mother's life too. July's mum list was amazing, and had me hooked throughout as we learned new things and how things might not be as they first appeared.
Brilliant.
August 25, 2023
July is living with her father Mick Hooper, her stepmother Auntie Shell and her stepsister Sylvie.
It is the summer of 1995 and there is a heatwave, July will be celebrating her tenth birthday but wishes her mother was with her. She had been told that her mother had been killed in a car crash when she was two years old. Her father refuses to talk about her and July has vague memories of the accident that claimed her mother's life.
July is determined to find out more about her mother, but the neighbours story is completely different to the one she has already been told.
A beautifully written book with great characters.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
It is the summer of 1995 and there is a heatwave, July will be celebrating her tenth birthday but wishes her mother was with her. She had been told that her mother had been killed in a car crash when she was two years old. Her father refuses to talk about her and July has vague memories of the accident that claimed her mother's life.
July is determined to find out more about her mother, but the neighbours story is completely different to the one she has already been told.
A beautifully written book with great characters.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 25, 2022
A totally absorbing psychological drama from Emily Koch, you'll read Juky's story and fall utterly in love.
It is compelling from the get go, you are with July all the way as she seeks the truth about her lost mother whilst navigating a challenging home life.
Emily Koch breathes passionate life into all her characters and the story is addictively emotional and genuinely clever.
I absolutely loved it. Highly Recommended.
It is compelling from the get go, you are with July all the way as she seeks the truth about her lost mother whilst navigating a challenging home life.
Emily Koch breathes passionate life into all her characters and the story is addictively emotional and genuinely clever.
I absolutely loved it. Highly Recommended.
December 15, 2022
July has just had her tenth birthday. She is desperate for information about her mother who died when July was two years old but her father and the rest of the family won’t give her any information except that her mother was knocked down and killed by a car.
July decides to do her own investigation into the death of her mum knowing that this will cause her father to become extremely angry at her.
This was a very sad story and difficult to read in parts.
Thank you to Random House UK, Vintage and NetGalley for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review
July decides to do her own investigation into the death of her mum knowing that this will cause her father to become extremely angry at her.
This was a very sad story and difficult to read in parts.
Thank you to Random House UK, Vintage and NetGalley for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review
September 18, 2023
It’s 1995 and July Hooper is ten. She lives with her dad, step mum and step sister. They don’t ever talk about her mum, it makes her dad angry and she really doesn’t want that to happen. But when she finds an anonymous note in her bag everything changes. July starts to wonder if what she’s been told is really true. But how can she find out without annoying her dad? July needs to do some secret detective work on her own to solve the mystery of what really happened to her mother…
What a gloriously evocative read this was! It catapulted me back in time, and captured the essence of the 1990s perfectly. July is an unforgettable character, it’s impossible to turn the pages without warming to her. I loved her strength, her curiosity, her kindness. I felt her sadness and frustration and her sense of loss. Despite her having a step mum & step sister, something is missing from her life and this gutsy kid won’t stop til she discovers the truth.
A heartbreaking and heartwarming tale that was an absolute joy to read.
What a gloriously evocative read this was! It catapulted me back in time, and captured the essence of the 1990s perfectly. July is an unforgettable character, it’s impossible to turn the pages without warming to her. I loved her strength, her curiosity, her kindness. I felt her sadness and frustration and her sense of loss. Despite her having a step mum & step sister, something is missing from her life and this gutsy kid won’t stop til she discovers the truth.
A heartbreaking and heartwarming tale that was an absolute joy to read.
November 17, 2022
⚠️ Content warnings: domestic abuse, physical assault, car accident, death, murder, vomiting, profanity, derogatory language, animal cruelty/death, bombing, child abuse, blood, alcohol use, mentions suicide, childbirth death and cheating ⚠️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book starts off very slow and I found myself forcing myself to read it in the beginning. I nearly stopped reading the book but I am so glad that I persevered because around the 35% mark, it really starts to pick up. There were random characters that kept getting introduced throughout this book where their relevance to the story wasn't entirely clear but I think they were meant for a different purpose, such as a lot of people were aware of what was going on but did nothing about it for their own reasons.
However, I think this book does an incredible job in covering what domestic abuse looks like within a relationship - how to the world, the abuser will share one side of their mask and to their family, they show their true self. It also shows how an abuser will deflect the blame onto other people, such as those around them or those who they believe have done something wrong against them. I also liked how it delved a little bit into why the abuser was the way that they were and the quote “a trauma or cruel figure in his past must have turned him into the monster I know. That said, his actions as an adult were his own. He could have chosen differently.” hits the nail on the head. This book also showed how a lot of people were aware of the things that the abuser was doing, however they kept out of the way either because of their own beliefs (being raised by parents to not phone the police if you witness a crime) or they were scared about what would happen to them as a consequence.
The character development throughout this book was absolutely incredible - it was great to see each character’s personality really shine through. I found myself constantly changing my opinion on each character the more that I learnt about them, which is why I think the ending had hit me so hard as I couldn’t stop crying. The ending made me so happy because it shows that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
I'm also very glad that this book contains resources about domestic abuse for children, women, males, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, about forced marriages or honour crimes as well as how to support someone who is experiencing domestic abuse.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher, Random House UK, Vintage, Harvill Secker for the opportunity to read this book!
I have posted this review to my NetGalley and Goodreads accounts. I will also post a review on my Instagram and Tiktok a week before the publication date (9th February 2023). This book will be available to purchase as a hardback for £14.99, an e-book for £9.99 or audiobook for £22.74.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book starts off very slow and I found myself forcing myself to read it in the beginning. I nearly stopped reading the book but I am so glad that I persevered because around the 35% mark, it really starts to pick up. There were random characters that kept getting introduced throughout this book where their relevance to the story wasn't entirely clear but I think they were meant for a different purpose, such as a lot of people were aware of what was going on but did nothing about it for their own reasons.
However, I think this book does an incredible job in covering what domestic abuse looks like within a relationship - how to the world, the abuser will share one side of their mask and to their family, they show their true self. It also shows how an abuser will deflect the blame onto other people, such as those around them or those who they believe have done something wrong against them. I also liked how it delved a little bit into why the abuser was the way that they were and the quote “a trauma or cruel figure in his past must have turned him into the monster I know. That said, his actions as an adult were his own. He could have chosen differently.” hits the nail on the head. This book also showed how a lot of people were aware of the things that the abuser was doing, however they kept out of the way either because of their own beliefs (being raised by parents to not phone the police if you witness a crime) or they were scared about what would happen to them as a consequence.
The character development throughout this book was absolutely incredible - it was great to see each character’s personality really shine through. I found myself constantly changing my opinion on each character the more that I learnt about them, which is why I think the ending had hit me so hard as I couldn’t stop crying. The ending made me so happy because it shows that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
I'm also very glad that this book contains resources about domestic abuse for children, women, males, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, about forced marriages or honour crimes as well as how to support someone who is experiencing domestic abuse.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher, Random House UK, Vintage, Harvill Secker for the opportunity to read this book!
I have posted this review to my NetGalley and Goodreads accounts. I will also post a review on my Instagram and Tiktok a week before the publication date (9th February 2023). This book will be available to purchase as a hardback for £14.99, an e-book for £9.99 or audiobook for £22.74.
February 8, 2023
July Hooper is ten years old. She lives with her father, stepmother, and stepsister. Though she and her stepsister are only ten months apart in age, Sylvie is much more polished that July. She is more popular at school, and she gets along with July's father better that July does. For July is always annoying her father and he is seldom, if ever, kind to her. Whenever she asks him any questions about her mother, she gets punished and she often goes to school with bruises that he has inflicted upon her. She had always believed that her mother had died in a car accident when July was only two years old. However... on her tenth birthday, her teacher slips her a note which says "She didn't die in a car accident". She spends her summer vacation on a mission to find out more about her mother...
July Hooper was endearing in her innocence. We meet her in the pivotal summer she turns ten years old. She adores her father, Mick, and tries valiantly to please him and receive some affection from him. Mick though, is a violent man. July is often 'taught a lesson' when she misbehaves, or, when she asks questions about her dead mother.
This novel portrays family violence in a way that you can easily recognize that happenings such as portrayed in the book could be taking place right now, maybe even next door. The perpetrators of these violent acts are often completely different when out in public. They can be personable and charming, yet when they close the door and are in the privacy of their own homes, they can switch on a dime - and turn into monsters.
The book was more than just a story of domestic abuse though. It had more than a little element of mystery. What really happened to July's mother? What were the circumstances that led to July's family telling lies about her, and about her death?
The setting was written in a very sensory, and skilled way. The intense heat of the summer was almost palpable.
As the summer of 1995 progresses, we meet more of July's family and acquaintances. We become more immersed in the mystery surrounding July's mother. We wish fervently that July will get the outcome she deserves...
The ending was quite unexpected, yet felicitous in its authenticity. Highly recommended! July is a girl you should meet.
July Hooper was endearing in her innocence. We meet her in the pivotal summer she turns ten years old. She adores her father, Mick, and tries valiantly to please him and receive some affection from him. Mick though, is a violent man. July is often 'taught a lesson' when she misbehaves, or, when she asks questions about her dead mother.
This novel portrays family violence in a way that you can easily recognize that happenings such as portrayed in the book could be taking place right now, maybe even next door. The perpetrators of these violent acts are often completely different when out in public. They can be personable and charming, yet when they close the door and are in the privacy of their own homes, they can switch on a dime - and turn into monsters.
The book was more than just a story of domestic abuse though. It had more than a little element of mystery. What really happened to July's mother? What were the circumstances that led to July's family telling lies about her, and about her death?
The setting was written in a very sensory, and skilled way. The intense heat of the summer was almost palpable.
As the summer of 1995 progresses, we meet more of July's family and acquaintances. We become more immersed in the mystery surrounding July's mother. We wish fervently that July will get the outcome she deserves...
The ending was quite unexpected, yet felicitous in its authenticity. Highly recommended! July is a girl you should meet.
January 15, 2024
what july knew ended up being a lot different to what i was expecting. i went into this book anticipating a sweet and emotional story about a girl coming to terms with her grief, but this was so much more than that. with a unique narrator in ten-year-old july, and with complex and ever-changing family dynamics forming its foundations, this book was so layered and well-crafted. it's definitely a slowburn of a book and, whilst i found the second half - and especially the ending - to be somewhat predictable, i flew through the pages.
a story about discovery and grief written through the lens of the naivety of a child - i very much enjoyed. 3.5 stars.
a story about discovery and grief written through the lens of the naivety of a child - i very much enjoyed. 3.5 stars.
December 9, 2022
What July Knew by Emily Koch is a story about family secrets, grief and growing up. It’s 1995 and July Hooper is almost 10 years old. She lives with her father, step-mum and step sister. Her mother died in a car accident when she was a baby and she has almost no real memories of her mum. Her father refuses to talk about it, her stepmother isn’t allowed to talk about it and her grandmother can’t talk about it without crying and all July wants is something tangible and real to remember her mother by. She’s been collecting little pieces of information over the years and has 18 individual items of knowledge that she has compiled into a list.
Just before school breaks up for Summer, July receives an anonymous note telling her that her mother didn’t die in a car accident and everything July thought she knew is turned upside down. So now she decides to find out the truth about her mother, her family and what really happened.
Whilst there is no denying that July Hooper is a wonderful character and the reader can’t help falling in love with this quirky little girl, there is a very dark and disturbing undercurrent running throughout the book. It’s apparent from the start that July is starved of parental love and affection and will do anything to get her father’s approval. It’s pretty obvious that her father is incapable of showing affection and is harbouring dark secrets about July’s mother – but is he doing this to protect July or himself?
It’s not an easy book to read, there are many aspects of Domestic Violence and Child Abuse throughout the storyline and the reader can’t help feeling sorry for July and wanting to protect her.
Overall this is a beautifully written, powerful story with wonderful characters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just before school breaks up for Summer, July receives an anonymous note telling her that her mother didn’t die in a car accident and everything July thought she knew is turned upside down. So now she decides to find out the truth about her mother, her family and what really happened.
Whilst there is no denying that July Hooper is a wonderful character and the reader can’t help falling in love with this quirky little girl, there is a very dark and disturbing undercurrent running throughout the book. It’s apparent from the start that July is starved of parental love and affection and will do anything to get her father’s approval. It’s pretty obvious that her father is incapable of showing affection and is harbouring dark secrets about July’s mother – but is he doing this to protect July or himself?
It’s not an easy book to read, there are many aspects of Domestic Violence and Child Abuse throughout the storyline and the reader can’t help feeling sorry for July and wanting to protect her.
Overall this is a beautifully written, powerful story with wonderful characters.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 1, 2023
Reading the reviews for this book on Netgalley and Goodreads, I feel as though I read a completely different book to other reviewers.
I found this slow-burn family mystery to be an odd read for the most part, with a cast of not very credible characters making terrible decisions at every juncture. These terrible decisions are explained away in a perplexing manner, or simply not explained at all and are presumably just there to serve a purpose to the plot.
It’s 1995, July Hooper is ten years old and knows only a limited number of things about her mother, who she believes died in a car accident when July was small.
When July tries to ask her father, stepmother and grandmother questions about her mum, they shut her down, unable to talk about her. July is persistent though, as she begins to do some digging of her own, things begin to take unexpected and dark turns. Throughout it all, July is physically and psychologically abused by her dreadful father.
This coming of age tale unfortunately lacked any subtlety. I checked twice while reading to see if it was young adult fiction but I don’t think it is. As the story progresses, there is a lot of telling not showing, and early on in the letter extracts interspersed throughout the story, a secret July later finds out about is strongly hinted at.
While I commend the author for dealing with an important topic like child abuse, the light-touch approach she takes to it comes off a little peculiar. While it’s an “easy read”, unfortunately I probably wouldn’t recommend this book. 2/5 ⭐️
I found this slow-burn family mystery to be an odd read for the most part, with a cast of not very credible characters making terrible decisions at every juncture. These terrible decisions are explained away in a perplexing manner, or simply not explained at all and are presumably just there to serve a purpose to the plot.
It’s 1995, July Hooper is ten years old and knows only a limited number of things about her mother, who she believes died in a car accident when July was small.
When July tries to ask her father, stepmother and grandmother questions about her mum, they shut her down, unable to talk about her. July is persistent though, as she begins to do some digging of her own, things begin to take unexpected and dark turns. Throughout it all, July is physically and psychologically abused by her dreadful father.
This coming of age tale unfortunately lacked any subtlety. I checked twice while reading to see if it was young adult fiction but I don’t think it is. As the story progresses, there is a lot of telling not showing, and early on in the letter extracts interspersed throughout the story, a secret July later finds out about is strongly hinted at.
While I commend the author for dealing with an important topic like child abuse, the light-touch approach she takes to it comes off a little peculiar. While it’s an “easy read”, unfortunately I probably wouldn’t recommend this book. 2/5 ⭐️
May 13, 2023
Wow. What a story. Emily Koch has done a magnificent job of portraying a young girl who has Big Feelings. It's impossible not to feel an ounce of compassion for ten year old July Hooper.
July's mum Maggie died when she was just two years old in a car crash... Or she's been led to believe. Raised by her father, Mick, July now lives with him, her step mum Shelley and stepsister Sylvie. Poor July is constantly comparing herself to Sylvie and striving for her dad's affections. Horrendously, Mick treats his daughter with cruelty, often teaching her A Lesson instead of fulfilling his duties as a father. It's little wonder that July retreats into herself, wishing her mum into existence. There's little mention of Maggie Hooper, except for the tidbits that July holds onto dearly.
When her lovely teacher Miss Glover assigns a summer project researching someone they don't know about, July is reluctant to write about her mum, until gentle persuasion and a note convinces her to do so.
July knows that if she asks too many questions, she'll only be left disappointed and/or at mercy to her father's wrath. However, July is aware of the street where she lived briefly as a baby. Mr Salter used to be the Hooper's neighbour, and he knows a lot more than he's letting on. Yet, July's persistence gradually wins the older man over, but is she ready to learn the truth about her mum's death?
I'm always left upset after reading about kids who are emotionally and physically abused, and this unacceptable behaviour plays a huge part here. Still, other nicer factors win out, turning this into a book about bravery, determination, kindness and mother/daughter bonds. It's a tough read but one that will really make you treasure your loved ones.
Absolutely amazing.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
July's mum Maggie died when she was just two years old in a car crash... Or she's been led to believe. Raised by her father, Mick, July now lives with him, her step mum Shelley and stepsister Sylvie. Poor July is constantly comparing herself to Sylvie and striving for her dad's affections. Horrendously, Mick treats his daughter with cruelty, often teaching her A Lesson instead of fulfilling his duties as a father. It's little wonder that July retreats into herself, wishing her mum into existence. There's little mention of Maggie Hooper, except for the tidbits that July holds onto dearly.
When her lovely teacher Miss Glover assigns a summer project researching someone they don't know about, July is reluctant to write about her mum, until gentle persuasion and a note convinces her to do so.
July knows that if she asks too many questions, she'll only be left disappointed and/or at mercy to her father's wrath. However, July is aware of the street where she lived briefly as a baby. Mr Salter used to be the Hooper's neighbour, and he knows a lot more than he's letting on. Yet, July's persistence gradually wins the older man over, but is she ready to learn the truth about her mum's death?
I'm always left upset after reading about kids who are emotionally and physically abused, and this unacceptable behaviour plays a huge part here. Still, other nicer factors win out, turning this into a book about bravery, determination, kindness and mother/daughter bonds. It's a tough read but one that will really make you treasure your loved ones.
Absolutely amazing.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
December 15, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for this review copy.
I am not sure how I ended up requesting a review copy of this book – I think perhaps the cover drew my attention. I can say that I am glad I did and a big thank you to Random House UK and NetGalley for this brilliant review copy. This was a fantastic read. A heart-warming story about family secrets and growing up that will keep you up at night.
This was my first time reading Emily Koch and this book has turned me into an instant fan. Her other books have been added to my wish list (I hope I am in time for Christmas) The author manages to place the reader into the head of a ten-year-old girl – sharing all her emotions. I fell in love with this little girl and my heart broke a little further with every turn of the page.
July Hooper knows eighteen things about her mother. The family does not talk about Maggie Hooper, even July’s grandparents do not say very much about her mother. All July wants is to learn more about her mother, no matter what she needs to do. Despite upsetting her father, July breaks all the rules as she searches for answers. While the adults in July’s life never expected this young girl would be able to undercover the truth they have been keeping from her.
I was heartbroken by the number of people who turned a blind eye to what was happening in this house. The author shows how easily domestic violence goes unnoticed. I was totally engrossed in this book and found that I could not turn the pages fast enough. This story was beautifully told and full of surprises along the way that keeps you guessing all the way.
July Hooper is a character that will crawl into your heart and stay there. The author did a marvellous job sharing this girl’s emotions and showing how discovering the truth made her mature. I cannot remember ever reading a book told from a child’s perspective that kept me this captivated.
I was not impressed with Yaya – July’s grandmother. While I understand that she was mourning the loss of her daughter, it has been ten years and she really should have made more of an effort to help July learn more about her mother. She knew who Mick was yet she left July with him and turned a blind eye – I found myself infuriated by her.
This book has sailed into my top ten for 2022 – I loved it! This book is a fantastic read, I cannot wait to have someone to discuss this one with. I will have to get Alicia a copy and convince her to read it as well.
If you enjoy a heart-warming story about family and growing up, with mystery and a fabulous twist thrown in – then this is the book for you. I loved this book and I cannot recommend this one highly enough. This is a book you must add to your TBR – you do not want to miss this one.
https://featzreviews.com/what-july-kn...
I am not sure how I ended up requesting a review copy of this book – I think perhaps the cover drew my attention. I can say that I am glad I did and a big thank you to Random House UK and NetGalley for this brilliant review copy. This was a fantastic read. A heart-warming story about family secrets and growing up that will keep you up at night.
This was my first time reading Emily Koch and this book has turned me into an instant fan. Her other books have been added to my wish list (I hope I am in time for Christmas) The author manages to place the reader into the head of a ten-year-old girl – sharing all her emotions. I fell in love with this little girl and my heart broke a little further with every turn of the page.
July Hooper knows eighteen things about her mother. The family does not talk about Maggie Hooper, even July’s grandparents do not say very much about her mother. All July wants is to learn more about her mother, no matter what she needs to do. Despite upsetting her father, July breaks all the rules as she searches for answers. While the adults in July’s life never expected this young girl would be able to undercover the truth they have been keeping from her.
I was heartbroken by the number of people who turned a blind eye to what was happening in this house. The author shows how easily domestic violence goes unnoticed. I was totally engrossed in this book and found that I could not turn the pages fast enough. This story was beautifully told and full of surprises along the way that keeps you guessing all the way.
July Hooper is a character that will crawl into your heart and stay there. The author did a marvellous job sharing this girl’s emotions and showing how discovering the truth made her mature. I cannot remember ever reading a book told from a child’s perspective that kept me this captivated.
I was not impressed with Yaya – July’s grandmother. While I understand that she was mourning the loss of her daughter, it has been ten years and she really should have made more of an effort to help July learn more about her mother. She knew who Mick was yet she left July with him and turned a blind eye – I found myself infuriated by her.
This book has sailed into my top ten for 2022 – I loved it! This book is a fantastic read, I cannot wait to have someone to discuss this one with. I will have to get Alicia a copy and convince her to read it as well.
If you enjoy a heart-warming story about family and growing up, with mystery and a fabulous twist thrown in – then this is the book for you. I loved this book and I cannot recommend this one highly enough. This is a book you must add to your TBR – you do not want to miss this one.
https://featzreviews.com/what-july-kn...
January 9, 2023
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Harvill Secker for approving me for an ARC of this book. I had seen nothing but positive reviews of the book and was excited to read it. My fellow book friends, Bex and Dee joined me for a buddy read too, using Storygraph.
Where do I possible begin to review this amazing book? I read it in the space of 24 hours and barely came up for air, utterly invested in July Hooper and her journey. From the first chapter I had those nostalgic feelings, the games on the school playground, the hair styles even the music brought back fond memories of my childhood. I was also tasked with writing a biography of a family member during primary school so this part also brought fond memories of my nan back.
The story opens with July, our ten-year-old protagonist, discovering that her mother’s death, eight years ago, may not have happened as she first thought. This leads her to embark on a journey of discovery and she soon finds she has more questions than answers. This running mystery is brilliantly crafted with red herrings and a scattering of breadcrumbs, to keep the theories going. Having the story told predominantly from July’s POV was a refreshing concept, it brought home the emotion of the story and the naivety of that age.
It’s not long till we discover that July’s home life isn’t as lovely as others may have thought. She has a very strained relationship with her father Mick and her step sister Sylvie seems determined to get her into trouble. Knowing her father’s feelings about her mother and her death, July strives to conceal her investigation. This part of the story was heart breaking to read and seeing others in the community turn a blind eye made my blood boil.
I felt all the emotions whilst reading this. From nostalgia to anger, to happiness and eventually tears, I felt that rollercoaster of emotions play heavily on my heart. You can’t help but love July and want to egg her on, knowing that the results may lead to heartbreak. You see secrets revealed and an almighty showdown as well as changing relationships and a beautiful portrayal of grief and loss. It’s a story that creeps into your soul and steals a little part of it.
Where do I possible begin to review this amazing book? I read it in the space of 24 hours and barely came up for air, utterly invested in July Hooper and her journey. From the first chapter I had those nostalgic feelings, the games on the school playground, the hair styles even the music brought back fond memories of my childhood. I was also tasked with writing a biography of a family member during primary school so this part also brought fond memories of my nan back.
The story opens with July, our ten-year-old protagonist, discovering that her mother’s death, eight years ago, may not have happened as she first thought. This leads her to embark on a journey of discovery and she soon finds she has more questions than answers. This running mystery is brilliantly crafted with red herrings and a scattering of breadcrumbs, to keep the theories going. Having the story told predominantly from July’s POV was a refreshing concept, it brought home the emotion of the story and the naivety of that age.
It’s not long till we discover that July’s home life isn’t as lovely as others may have thought. She has a very strained relationship with her father Mick and her step sister Sylvie seems determined to get her into trouble. Knowing her father’s feelings about her mother and her death, July strives to conceal her investigation. This part of the story was heart breaking to read and seeing others in the community turn a blind eye made my blood boil.
I felt all the emotions whilst reading this. From nostalgia to anger, to happiness and eventually tears, I felt that rollercoaster of emotions play heavily on my heart. You can’t help but love July and want to egg her on, knowing that the results may lead to heartbreak. You see secrets revealed and an almighty showdown as well as changing relationships and a beautiful portrayal of grief and loss. It’s a story that creeps into your soul and steals a little part of it.
July 17, 2025
If you could imagine Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret., but set in the 90s and centred around domestic abuse (mainly of the child main character), then you would get a fairly accurate picture of this story.
The whole book is narrated from the point of view of July, as she tries to find out more about her dead mother who no one will talk about, while navigating a dangerous daily living situation with her father, stepmother and stepsister. And while the abuse is chilling enough of itself, what really affected me was the horrible matter-of-factness with which July accepted her abuse as normal. Not only do all the adults and children around her turn a blind eye to the signs, or try to minimise/justify them, but July herself sees the attacks as normal, deserved… even loving. And between the attacks she is so grateful for any crumb of tolerance, let alone affection. It utterly broke my heart.
Other than July’s terrible current situation, there is some mystery around her mum’s life and death, and that is where most of her focus lies for the story, but I found it hard to worry about past mysteries when the act of investigating them was putting July in ever-increasing and very present peril. I found myself reading in a state of constant anxious alert which mirrored – to a much lesser extent – July’s own.
A very intense, slow-building read, focused on character development more than plot, this book gradually drew me into the child’s-eye view, the home, the community and invoked an emotional reaction that I found hard to shake off, even after the eventual resolution. Not an easy read at all, but beautifully written and feels almost too real to bear.
The whole book is narrated from the point of view of July, as she tries to find out more about her dead mother who no one will talk about, while navigating a dangerous daily living situation with her father, stepmother and stepsister. And while the abuse is chilling enough of itself, what really affected me was the horrible matter-of-factness with which July accepted her abuse as normal. Not only do all the adults and children around her turn a blind eye to the signs, or try to minimise/justify them, but July herself sees the attacks as normal, deserved… even loving. And between the attacks she is so grateful for any crumb of tolerance, let alone affection. It utterly broke my heart.
Other than July’s terrible current situation, there is some mystery around her mum’s life and death, and that is where most of her focus lies for the story, but I found it hard to worry about past mysteries when the act of investigating them was putting July in ever-increasing and very present peril. I found myself reading in a state of constant anxious alert which mirrored – to a much lesser extent – July’s own.
A very intense, slow-building read, focused on character development more than plot, this book gradually drew me into the child’s-eye view, the home, the community and invoked an emotional reaction that I found hard to shake off, even after the eventual resolution. Not an easy read at all, but beautifully written and feels almost too real to bear.
March 8, 2024
Best book of the year so far
October 20, 2023
All my reviews can be found at damppebbles.com
Emily Koch is not a new author to me. I had the pleasure of reading If I Die Before I Wake back in 2018 and it kind of blew my mind. I loved it for many reasons but one of the most memorable things about the book was how emotional it was. I’m not a crier. Fiction does not make me cry. But If I Die Before I Wake nearly broke me. So when offered the chance to read Koch’s latest book, I jumped at it. Based on my experience of IIDBIW I knew it was going to pull on my heartstrings, particularly with 10 year old lead, July Hooper, at the helm.
July Hooper lives at home with her father, step-mother and step-sister. Her mother tragically died in a car accident when she was tiny but July keeps a list of 18 facts she has gleaned from friends and family over the years. A list which she keeps hidden from her father as they’re not allowed to talk about her mother. On her 10th birthday July’s world is turned upside down when an anonymous note is slipped into her bag. The note claims that what July thought she knew about her mother’s death – that she died in a car accident – isn’t true. July is determined to discover what really happened and bravely starts her own investigation, venturing out on her brand new bike to the street her family used to live in. But the truth may be harder to face than July ever imagined…
What July Knew is a beautifully written mystery with a brave, inspirational young lead who stole my heart. It’s impossible to not warm to July. She’s quietly confident in herself (despite not being one of the popular kids at school) and radiates so much warmth to the reader. Koch has created such a well-rounded, multi-layered character in July and I appreciated every moment I spent in her company. I felt fully invested in July’s plight. I could feel how desperate she was for someone (anyone!) to tell her the truth about her mother, whether it be related to her death or any other tiny, insignificant (to anyone else but July) fact that would help her see what kind of woman she was. It was such an absorbing, heart breaking story which hooked me in and didn’t let go.
The pace moves along gently but fitted the story perfectly, drawing the reader into July’s world of Body Shop perfume (clearly White Musk, not Dewberry!), Pogs and so much mid-90s nostalgia that I was in heaven! (Granted, I was a little older than July in 1995 but not by much!) The supporting cast of characters are all well-written and have something important to contribute to the story. One character in particular made my blood boil. They have an ever-present, quiet malevolence about them which the author has pitched perfectly. The threat they emanate is palpable and when they were on the page I had to fight the urge to cover my eyes. I didn’t want to look just in case things took a turn for the worse. Things frequently take a turn for the worse and my heart broke repeatedly for July.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. What July Knew is an unforgettable tale featuring one of the bravest, most likeable characters I have met in a long time. It was emotional, immersive and a joy to read from start to finish. So much so, I feel a little bereft now it’s over! This family-driven mystery does have its darker moments which some readers may struggle with, but the author has approached the subject with sensitivity. It’s clear Koch cares deeply for July and that warmth radiates from the page. All in all, this is an incredibly well-crafted novel from a writer I have enormous respect for. Koch is able to wrap so much emotion up in her novels that it frequently breaks my cold, black heart. And there’s only one other writer on this planet able to do that! Beautifully written, superb characterisation and perfectly plotted. Highly recommended.
Emily Koch is not a new author to me. I had the pleasure of reading If I Die Before I Wake back in 2018 and it kind of blew my mind. I loved it for many reasons but one of the most memorable things about the book was how emotional it was. I’m not a crier. Fiction does not make me cry. But If I Die Before I Wake nearly broke me. So when offered the chance to read Koch’s latest book, I jumped at it. Based on my experience of IIDBIW I knew it was going to pull on my heartstrings, particularly with 10 year old lead, July Hooper, at the helm.
July Hooper lives at home with her father, step-mother and step-sister. Her mother tragically died in a car accident when she was tiny but July keeps a list of 18 facts she has gleaned from friends and family over the years. A list which she keeps hidden from her father as they’re not allowed to talk about her mother. On her 10th birthday July’s world is turned upside down when an anonymous note is slipped into her bag. The note claims that what July thought she knew about her mother’s death – that she died in a car accident – isn’t true. July is determined to discover what really happened and bravely starts her own investigation, venturing out on her brand new bike to the street her family used to live in. But the truth may be harder to face than July ever imagined…
What July Knew is a beautifully written mystery with a brave, inspirational young lead who stole my heart. It’s impossible to not warm to July. She’s quietly confident in herself (despite not being one of the popular kids at school) and radiates so much warmth to the reader. Koch has created such a well-rounded, multi-layered character in July and I appreciated every moment I spent in her company. I felt fully invested in July’s plight. I could feel how desperate she was for someone (anyone!) to tell her the truth about her mother, whether it be related to her death or any other tiny, insignificant (to anyone else but July) fact that would help her see what kind of woman she was. It was such an absorbing, heart breaking story which hooked me in and didn’t let go.
The pace moves along gently but fitted the story perfectly, drawing the reader into July’s world of Body Shop perfume (clearly White Musk, not Dewberry!), Pogs and so much mid-90s nostalgia that I was in heaven! (Granted, I was a little older than July in 1995 but not by much!) The supporting cast of characters are all well-written and have something important to contribute to the story. One character in particular made my blood boil. They have an ever-present, quiet malevolence about them which the author has pitched perfectly. The threat they emanate is palpable and when they were on the page I had to fight the urge to cover my eyes. I didn’t want to look just in case things took a turn for the worse. Things frequently take a turn for the worse and my heart broke repeatedly for July.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. What July Knew is an unforgettable tale featuring one of the bravest, most likeable characters I have met in a long time. It was emotional, immersive and a joy to read from start to finish. So much so, I feel a little bereft now it’s over! This family-driven mystery does have its darker moments which some readers may struggle with, but the author has approached the subject with sensitivity. It’s clear Koch cares deeply for July and that warmth radiates from the page. All in all, this is an incredibly well-crafted novel from a writer I have enormous respect for. Koch is able to wrap so much emotion up in her novels that it frequently breaks my cold, black heart. And there’s only one other writer on this planet able to do that! Beautifully written, superb characterisation and perfectly plotted. Highly recommended.
July 3, 2023
Unenjoyable tale of domestic abuse from a child’s perspective
September 3, 2025
I almost gave up on this one. It was a nice story but it took far too long to tell. July is 10, living with her father, Mick, stepmother, Shelly, and stepsister, Sylvie. Her father is abusive, especially when she asks questions about her mother, Maggie, who died when she was young. Her grandmother only cries when she asks about her mom and says that her old heart can't take talking about it. July thinks that her mom died in a car crash when she was two but a note in her schoolbook telling her otherwise starts her investigating. She gets a bike for her birthday and rides over to the street that they used to live on and meets Rob Salter, a neighbor who knew her mom. He is just as cryptic about her as the other adults in her life, which so silly and annoying. Eventually the truth comes out that Maggie died giving birth to July. Rob was there when she went into labor and helped her but she died moments after birth from a hemorrhage, probably caused by Mick's abuse. But Rob was arrested when Mick said that he stalked and harassed his wife. Rob was cleared but the entire neighborhood turned against him. Once Mick learned that July was talking to Rob, he stabbed him and July and Sylvie both hit Mick over the head and killed him. Rob took the blame to protect the girls and went to prison. July learned that Rob was her real father and the two became close once he got out of jail. It would have been a much better book if it wasn't so slow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2023
Very well written with an unexpected story behind Maggie’s death
Though I loved this book, I found I wanted to read it with my hands over my eyes, metaphorically, while I waited for the next bad thing to happen to poor old July. No one seemed to be on her side, not even her maternal grandmother who I felt could have done so much more to help her e.g. tell her about her mother, see her more so that . It turns out that there were others who would help her when the chips were down but perhaps were afraid to show their support before because of her brutal father and the impact on themselves.
Though I loved this book, I found I wanted to read it with my hands over my eyes, metaphorically, while I waited for the next bad thing to happen to poor old July. No one seemed to be on her side, not even her maternal grandmother who I felt could have done so much more to help her e.g. tell her about her mother, see her more so that . It turns out that there were others who would help her when the chips were down but perhaps were afraid to show their support before because of her brutal father and the impact on themselves.
January 28, 2023
What a lovely book, told from the perspective of a little girl who wants to find out more about her dead mother. But why does no one want to talk about her? The first bits of the book are very slow, and I wasn't convinced by there was such a big secret around what happened to her mother. I won't give any spoilers; suffice it to say, there's a reason this book is set in the 1990s!
The best thing was the relationship between July and her stepsister (whose name I forget); the way they compete, and fight, and make up, and cover for each other. And that moment when they discover that sisterhood is, in fact, thicker than blood.
(Review copy from NetGalley)
The best thing was the relationship between July and her stepsister (whose name I forget); the way they compete, and fight, and make up, and cover for each other. And that moment when they discover that sisterhood is, in fact, thicker than blood.
(Review copy from NetGalley)
June 21, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up. July is a wonderful character. I knew absolutely nothing about this book. And I’m so glad I’ve picked it up and read it. It’s very sad and tense but it’s just so captivating. I loved how the story ends so beautifully well done. But please beware there are child abuse and domestic abuse in this one.
January 23, 2023
July knows 18 things about her mother. But not the truth.
This is a novel filled with nostalgia & emotion. It is a book about a little girl called July whose mother died in a car crash when she was little...or did she, an anonymous note takes July on a summer of discovery. But this book is about so much more than July, it's about friendship & family, it's about discovering who you are & where you belong.
Emily Koch made me cry to the point I had to put the book down, then pick it back up & read the passage to my husband to explain why I was so moved. The simplicity of the scene in question (when you read it, which I highly recommend you do, it's when they get back from a trip to town) showed such skill in the writing, really capturing the moment in question. On top of being a great story, the book keeps you guessing with information, letters & red herrings woven into the tale keeping the mystery element going all while July captures a little piece of your heart.
What July Knew took me back to a childhood of white musk, millions, pogs & cycling around all summer long. It brought me back to loss & grief, but also left me hopeful & happy.
This is a novel filled with nostalgia & emotion. It is a book about a little girl called July whose mother died in a car crash when she was little...or did she, an anonymous note takes July on a summer of discovery. But this book is about so much more than July, it's about friendship & family, it's about discovering who you are & where you belong.
Emily Koch made me cry to the point I had to put the book down, then pick it back up & read the passage to my husband to explain why I was so moved. The simplicity of the scene in question (when you read it, which I highly recommend you do, it's when they get back from a trip to town) showed such skill in the writing, really capturing the moment in question. On top of being a great story, the book keeps you guessing with information, letters & red herrings woven into the tale keeping the mystery element going all while July captures a little piece of your heart.
What July Knew took me back to a childhood of white musk, millions, pogs & cycling around all summer long. It brought me back to loss & grief, but also left me hopeful & happy.
June 13, 2023
Don't let the cover fool you this book packed a punch. I spent a lot of the book angry on behalf of the main character who is desperately trying to find pieces of the mother she has never known. There are also some decent twists and turns towards the last third that I didn't see coming. 3.5 stars
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