If You Tell: A True Story of Murder, Family Secrets, and the Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood

Well written, but difficult to read because of the horrific and devastating truth of the subject and its reality. I almost stopped reading a few times because of how horrific the subject matter was, but kept telling myself if the victims lived through this situation the least I can do is read their story as they didn’t have the choice to put the book down when it became too much for them.

A rough read, due to the incredible torture described. But I was disappointed that the book wasn't as well written as Mr. Olsen's fiction novels. It almost seemed as though someone else had written the book. If you want the truth about how abusive parents can be, I'll recommend this book. If you want a taut, superbly written mystery, I'll happily recommend any of his other books!

This is the hardest book I’ve ever read. While it was well written, the graphic content of abuse and murder made it difficult to get through. Children should never be subjected to this kind of treatment. NO ONE should be subjected to this kind of treatment. While Shelly is a monster and possibly the worse human on the planet, it was Dave I hated the most. He continued to turn a blind eye to all that was happening and contributed to the pain and suffering both survivors and fatal victims went through. It’s sad that he was able to get out and live any type of life knowing that Kathy, Shane, and Ron didn’t make it. Shelly is said to be getting out this year and it sickens me. While I don’t want to wish badly on anyone, Shelly should never see the light of day. She should be buried under the prison for all I care. The sheriff department should also pay for their part in Ron’s murder as they did nothing to prevent it knowing Shelly’s history. This is the best worse book I’ve ever read.

3.25 ⭐️

"Sisters forever. Victims no more."

This book was very well written, but incredibly devastating. I was constantly in shock at the atrocities committed by the Knotek parents. Dave's cognitive dissonance was exemplified by this writing style, holding both the truth of what Dave said and believed to be true in stark contrast with the actual truth. It was a consistent reminder of the duality of ideas people can hold in their minds to keep the peace when experiencing abuse.

*I have not checked for accuracy so my review does not have to do with that element*

**After reading other reviews, I fully stand by my 5 stars. I felt it was matter of fact which is a plus to me (but not to others apparently) when dealing with subject like this. I don't want to be woven a tale, I want to hear about the lies and what actually happened, personally. That's part of the complexity of manipulation and abuse. And the focus wasn't meant to be the arrest or trial, it was about the experience of those in the household who were abused. The jacket cover blurb makes that kind of obvious.**