Forget You Know Me

February 1, 2019

This third novel from Strawser (Not That I Could Tell You; Almost Missed You) is not only a captivating suspense novel but also a look at the complicated relationships that can occur among friends and spouses over the span of time and distance. Best friends Molly and Liza were thick as thieves and did everything together--even after Molly married Daniel, Liza was the welcomed and expected third wheel in their relationship and family. But when Liza moves to Chicago, an emotional distance is added to the physical, changing their relationship. Over time, too, Molly begins to grow distant from Daniel. Though he is physically present at times, in many ways he isn't, and resentment settles into the empty spaces, leaving Molly to feel alone. One night when Daniel is away, the girlfriends try to catch up on Skype, which then sets off a series of scary, odd events that can't be explained away. VERDICT Stawser's great hybrid of women's fiction and suspense doesn't overwhelm but intrigues. Readers will enjoy the strong character development and unpredictable plot.--Anne M. Miskewitch, Schaumburg Twp. Dist. P.L., IL

Copyright 2019 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2019
Best friends Molly and Liza have grown apart?Liza has moved away, Molly is married with kids. Their only way to connect is through video calling, and even that has grown awkward?until the night Liza spots a masked intruder on Molly's webcam. Liza calls the police and even drives from Chicago to Cincinnati to make sure her friend is okay, but Molly rebuffs her, insisting their friendship is over. Yet the story is far from over, as the women navigate a series of events that test everything they know to be true. Strawser (Not That I Could Tell, 2017) is a clear master of the craft, drawing together a plot that seems at once impossible and fully believable. The novel's pulsing anxiety continues through the triple narration from Liza, Molly, and Molly's husband, Daniel. This is not a straight-up thriller; the multiple domestic subplots and sometimes-leisurely pace may deter some readers. However, the tapestry of story and character will lure book clubs and lovers of emotionally complex fiction.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)