If You Tell by Gregg Olsen. A True Story of Murder, Family Secrets and the Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood.
This might not be the most conventional thing to say, but as a piece of literature? This book was sooo deliciously twisted. In reality? Unbelievable! This woman redefines the term ‘psychological.’
The trauma these kids, and even some adults, endured is beyond imaginable. It takes mind-fuckery to a whole new level.
That being said, I couldn’t help but notice familiar behaviors portrayed in this book. I saw glimpses of my high school bully. Pieces of a former supervisor. And even startling resemblances to my stepmother, who I have always suspected suffers from mental illness—though that’s a tale for another time. It’s a stark reminder that evil lurks all around us, more often than not, going unnoticed—thankfully!
After devouring this book in less than 24 hours, I was stunned that I had passed this book by on so many occasions. I’ll admit, I’m guilty of being a judger-by-the-cover, and for some reason, this one just didn’t catch my eye.
I happened to be scrolling Facebook the other night and someone in one of my groups mentioned starting this book and that it was partially set in Battle Ground, Washington, which is basically just up the road from me. So naturally, I had to see what the fuss was all about. From the first page, I was hooked.
In the realm of true crime literature
Few narratives grip the soul like “If You Tell” by Gregg Olsen. With meticulous detail and unflinching honesty, Olsen unravels the harrowing tale of the Knotek family. Revealing not only the depths of human depravity but the extraordinary resilience of the human spirit.
Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, the story follows the lives of Nikki, Sami, and Tori, three sisters bound by blood and shackled by fear. From an early age, they endure unspeakable horrors at the hands of their own mother, a woman whose cruelty knows no bounds.
From the get-go, the author delves into the chilling psychology of abuse, exploring the ways in which perpetrators like Knotek can wield power and control over their victims. Through a narrative that oscillates between past and present, readers are given a front-row seat to the sisters’ harrowing ordeal.
But Olsen doesn’t stop there. In “If You Tell,” he shines a light on the transformative power of solidarity and resilience, as the sisters band together to confront their demons and seek justice for themselves and others who have suffered at the hands of their mother. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of family that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, hope can still prevail.
Throughout the book, the writing is both haunting and evocative, drawing readers into the heart of the Knotek sisters’ ordeal with each turn of the page. From the chilling descriptions of abuse to the moments of triumph and redemption, it is a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves readers breathless and deeply moved.
What makes it so chilling?
What makes “If You Tell” particularly chilling is its exploration of the dynamics of power and control within the confines of a seemingly ordinary suburban household. As the sisters grapple with the trauma inflicted upon them, Olsen delves into the complexities of victimhood, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the nature of evil and the fragility of innocence.
In “If You Tell,” Gregg Olsen has crafted a true crime masterpiece that transcends the genre. Equal parts heart-wrenching and equal parts heart-stopping, this is a story that will stay with readers long after they’ve turned the final page. It serves as a stark reminder of the horrors that can lurk behind closed doors and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the most unimaginable of circumstances.
I will say. There is one thing from the book that bothered me. I felt like there was one particular loose end that wasn’t tied up. I won’t say what it was, because I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone. Having said that, if you notice something too, drop me a line and let me know what you think—I bet it will be the same thing. Or even if you don’t notice anything, I’d love to hear from you.
If you are after a wicked family drama. I’m not sure you would be able to find one more chilling than this. Just be sure to keep the lights on and maybe invest in a good lock for your doors. You never know what secrets might be lurking in the shadows. Happy reading!
Where can I get my copy?
If you need to grab your copy of this title, you can get it here on Amazon. Or get a copy for free when you sign up for a free trial from Audible. If you happen to be a Kindle Unlimited subscriber, it is offered for free on KU right now too.
Until next time, you thrilling thriller readers, keep it brash, keep it bookish and keep true to you!
