A Twisted Tale of Secrets: My Review of Someone Knows by Lisa Scottoline
There’s something irresistible about a good thriller, particularly one that promises layers of intrigue and complex characters. When I stumbled upon Someone Knows by Lisa Scottoline, I was both excited and curious, drawn in by the premise of a creative writing professor revisiting her dark past. It felt like it would be a layered exploration of guilt, secrets, and perhaps a dose of redemption. As a reader who appreciates the possibilities within the genre, I was hopeful that Scottoline would deliver a gripping narrative.
Unraveling Secrets
At its core, Someone Knows introduces us to Elizabeth, who awaits the vibrant, young minds of her college creative writing class. But when one student’s chapter about a scandalous affair mirrors Elizabeth’s own past, the dark shadows of memories long buried begin to creep back into the light. The narrative alternates between suspense and flashbacks, as Elizabeth finds herself pulled back to her Louisiana hometown to confront both her past and the knowledge that someone might have pieced together her secret.
While I can appreciate a predictable plot in cozies or romances, I find it frustrating in thrillers, and this book sadly fell into that category for me. Much of the narrative felt familiar, lacking that edge of surprise that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Sure, Scottoline crafts a fast-paced reading experience; the pages turned quickly, and the first-person POV allowed a vivid glimpse into Elizabeth’s psyche. Yet, I often found myself waiting for plot developments that never quite materialized.
Character Dynamics and Writing Style
Elizabeth’s character is, unfortunately, a mix of clichés often seen in thrillers: fueling herself with coffee and alcohol, embroiled in self-destructive behaviors, and clever enough to make questionable decisions. While her tumultuous emotional state invites sympathy, I found her to be a little on the ridiculous side. The decisions made feel like they ticked boxes on a "thriller character checklist," leaving me more exasperated than captivated.
Scottoline’s writing is undoubtedly engaging, transitioning effortlessly between moments of calm and frantic chaos as Elizabeth grapples with revelations. The author’s skill shines particularly bright in her ability to evoke Elizabeth’s emotions, shifting from confident professor to a woman haunted by her choices. The exploration of patterns—in behavior, relationships, and the consequences we face—could make this an excellent discussion piece for book clubs.
However, the promise of a “chilling and sexy thriller” was largely unfulfilled for me. What started as intriguing quickly morphed into something rather silly, as the erotic elements felt more gratuitous than purposeful. By the time I reached the end, I found myself questioning not just the story’s resolutions but also the necessity of yet another last chapter meant solely to shock.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while Someone Knows has all the technical elements of a thrilling read—an intriguing premise, an engaging writing style, and a potent exploration of complex themes—it ultimately fell flat for me personally. Those newer to the genre or looking for lighter suspense might find more enjoyment here than I did. It’s a book that could spark conversation, especially regarding its themes of trauma and redemption.
While I appreciate Lisa Scottoline’s place in contemporary fiction, and even more so her ability to craft nuanced characters, I must reflect on my own threshold for predictability and plot twists—something many readers might approach differently. For those intrigued by psychological depth and aren’t deterred by predictability, this might just find a cozy spot on your shelf. And one last note—if you do pick it up, keep an eye out for the trigger warnings! Happy reading!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for providing me the opportunity to read this eARC. My thoughts remain my own. #NetGalley #SomeoneKnows
Discover more about Someone Knows on GoodReads >>
