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She Didn't Stand a Chance
"Clever, atmospheric, and sizzling with suspense, this book is an addictive binge." —Heather Chavez, author of Before She Finds Me and What We'll Burn Last
The desert heat can be deadly. But nothing kills like a cold heart.
Gertie hasn't seen her siblings since she was a toddler. Now, she's back at the family home she barely remembers, summoned there to witness the reading of her father's will. Shockingly, Gertie stands to inherit a substantial portion of the family business and her father's prized Palm Springs home. And no one is more surprised—and angry—about Gertie's inclusion in the will than her sisters and brothers.
Trapped in a remote house that doesn't feel like home with siblings that don't feel like family, Gertie is isolated in more ways than one. And when she discovers that her father may have been murdered, and a member of the household staff dies not long before she has a near-deadly accident of her own, she realizes she'll be lucky to get out of this unexpected family reunion alive.
A suspenseful read that feels just as suffocating as the dry California air in which it is set, She Didn't Stand a Chance takes readers on a wild journey of jealousy, lies, and family secrets with deadly consequences.
The desert heat can be deadly. But nothing kills like a cold heart.
Gertie hasn't seen her siblings since she was a toddler. Now, she's back at the family home she barely remembers, summoned there to witness the reading of her father's will. Shockingly, Gertie stands to inherit a substantial portion of the family business and her father's prized Palm Springs home. And no one is more surprised—and angry—about Gertie's inclusion in the will than her sisters and brothers.
Trapped in a remote house that doesn't feel like home with siblings that don't feel like family, Gertie is isolated in more ways than one. And when she discovers that her father may have been murdered, and a member of the household staff dies not long before she has a near-deadly accident of her own, she realizes she'll be lucky to get out of this unexpected family reunion alive.
A suspenseful read that feels just as suffocating as the dry California air in which it is set, She Didn't Stand a Chance takes readers on a wild journey of jealousy, lies, and family secrets with deadly consequences.
361 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2025
81 people are currently reading
10237 people want to read
About the author
Stacie Grey
4 books158 followersStacie Grey is an author and fan of mysteries who lives in Alameda, California, with her husband and dog. In what passes for normal life, she works in biotech research. She mostly posts to Instagram and Threads, and occasionally writes a newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
September 23, 2025
When Gertie gets notification that she's being summoned to her recently-deceased, estranged father's luxurious desert property for the reading of his Will, she's not exactly elated.
She hasn't seen her four half-siblings since she was just a toddler, and has absolutely nothing in common with them. Nevertheless, she's curious and decides to go, in spite of how awkward it's bound to get.
Once at the property, her assumptions are confirmed. Her half-siblings treat her like gutter trash blown in off the streets. They stick her in the cluttered and neglected pool house, with no air con, or any other conveniences.
Gertie receives more warmth from the property's staff than her own family, made worse when it's revealed she's set to inherit a large portion of the estate. A larger portion than anyone would have expected; especially Gertie.
Gertie has so many questions, including how did their father die? The more she asks about that, the clearer it becomes that he might not have died of natural causes.
When a member of the household staff is killed a few days later, Gertie's confident that something nefarious is going on inside this house of glass. Will she be able to get to the bottom of it, or will she fall prey to the killer in their midst?
She Didn't Stand a Chance pulled me in very quickly. I love an inheritance story, and this one gets to the nitty-gritty of the inheritance pretty early on.
I also really enjoyed Gertie as a main character. She's plucky, resourceful and was very active in digging into the events surrounding her father's death. It would have been very easy for her to just go there, sit quietly, take what was hers and move on, but she didn't.
Though Gertie's perspective is the only one we get in the present timeline, Grey did include some very fun mixed media aspects that helped to move the plot along. Additionally, we get little snippets of what was going on within the family just prior to their Dad's death.
The siblings, Maryann, Brian, Liam and Jennifer, were all absolutely terrible. It was fun watching their ridiculously-petty antics. They were working hard to intimidate Gertie, but she's made of stronger stuff than that.
There were some interesting side characters as well. My favorites being Mrs. Phan, the long-time property manager, and Eddie, the chef. The staff def had strong feelings about the family and I enjoyed getting their thoughts.
I did feel this dragged out a little towards the end, but overall, I found it to be an intriguing mystery. I had a lot of fun trying to figure out what had happened to the Dad and I definitely had moments where I was scared for our MC.
I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys a tense and dramatic inheritance story. The mystery was engaging and many of the characters were a lot of fun to hate.
I also truly enjoyed the desert setting, which added so much to the general feel of the story.
Thank you to the publisher, Poisoned Pen Press, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm looking forward to more from Stacie Grey!
She hasn't seen her four half-siblings since she was just a toddler, and has absolutely nothing in common with them. Nevertheless, she's curious and decides to go, in spite of how awkward it's bound to get.
Once at the property, her assumptions are confirmed. Her half-siblings treat her like gutter trash blown in off the streets. They stick her in the cluttered and neglected pool house, with no air con, or any other conveniences.
Gertie receives more warmth from the property's staff than her own family, made worse when it's revealed she's set to inherit a large portion of the estate. A larger portion than anyone would have expected; especially Gertie.
Gertie has so many questions, including how did their father die? The more she asks about that, the clearer it becomes that he might not have died of natural causes.
When a member of the household staff is killed a few days later, Gertie's confident that something nefarious is going on inside this house of glass. Will she be able to get to the bottom of it, or will she fall prey to the killer in their midst?
She Didn't Stand a Chance pulled me in very quickly. I love an inheritance story, and this one gets to the nitty-gritty of the inheritance pretty early on.
I also really enjoyed Gertie as a main character. She's plucky, resourceful and was very active in digging into the events surrounding her father's death. It would have been very easy for her to just go there, sit quietly, take what was hers and move on, but she didn't.
Though Gertie's perspective is the only one we get in the present timeline, Grey did include some very fun mixed media aspects that helped to move the plot along. Additionally, we get little snippets of what was going on within the family just prior to their Dad's death.
The siblings, Maryann, Brian, Liam and Jennifer, were all absolutely terrible. It was fun watching their ridiculously-petty antics. They were working hard to intimidate Gertie, but she's made of stronger stuff than that.
There were some interesting side characters as well. My favorites being Mrs. Phan, the long-time property manager, and Eddie, the chef. The staff def had strong feelings about the family and I enjoyed getting their thoughts.
I did feel this dragged out a little towards the end, but overall, I found it to be an intriguing mystery. I had a lot of fun trying to figure out what had happened to the Dad and I definitely had moments where I was scared for our MC.
I would recommend this for anyone who enjoys a tense and dramatic inheritance story. The mystery was engaging and many of the characters were a lot of fun to hate.
I also truly enjoyed the desert setting, which added so much to the general feel of the story.
Thank you to the publisher, Poisoned Pen Press, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I'm looking forward to more from Stacie Grey!
June 12, 2025
So I have to admit I wasn’t a huge fan of the authors first book but I’ll always give a second chance and im glad I did because I enjoyed this book so much more!
I really liked Gerties character (don’t expect to like anyone else 😂), she may appear timid and Naive at first glance but she definitely can bite and I loved her development and character arc over the course of the book as she searches for answers surrounding the death of her estranged father.
If you like a good pop corn mystery thriller up I recommend giving this a try!
Thank you for the gifted arc!
Publishes: August 12th
I really liked Gerties character (don’t expect to like anyone else 😂), she may appear timid and Naive at first glance but she definitely can bite and I loved her development and character arc over the course of the book as she searches for answers surrounding the death of her estranged father.
If you like a good pop corn mystery thriller up I recommend giving this a try!
Thank you for the gifted arc!
Publishes: August 12th
August 5, 2025
A twisty family thriller you won’t want to put down!
When Gertie returns home after her father’s death, she walks into more than just old memories — she walks straight into a mess. The family estate is crumbling, the business is in shambles, and the siblings she hasn’t seen in years are just as complicated as ever.
But the real shock? Her father didn’t just die… he was likely murdered.
As Gertie and her four siblings settle back into the eerie Glass House, secrets start bubbling to the surface. One mysterious death turns into another, and suddenly everyone’s a suspect. Can Gertie unravel the truth before it’s too late?
This thriller kept me guessing the whole way through. Every twist had me on edge, and just when I thought I had it figured out — nope! I loved the creepy, atmospheric setting and the mysterious house staff. The ending could’ve packed a bit more punch, but overall, this ARC had me hooked from start to finish.
When Gertie returns home after her father’s death, she walks into more than just old memories — she walks straight into a mess. The family estate is crumbling, the business is in shambles, and the siblings she hasn’t seen in years are just as complicated as ever.
But the real shock? Her father didn’t just die… he was likely murdered.
As Gertie and her four siblings settle back into the eerie Glass House, secrets start bubbling to the surface. One mysterious death turns into another, and suddenly everyone’s a suspect. Can Gertie unravel the truth before it’s too late?
This thriller kept me guessing the whole way through. Every twist had me on edge, and just when I thought I had it figured out — nope! I loved the creepy, atmospheric setting and the mysterious house staff. The ending could’ve packed a bit more punch, but overall, this ARC had me hooked from start to finish.
July 21, 2025
3.5⭐️s
The story follows the main character Gertie as she returns back home to meet with her step siblings as her father had passed away and his will needs to be read. Except something seems off with her father’s death, was it actually an accident or was he murdered? Lies and secrets are revealed, will Gertie be able to figure out what had happened before it’s too late?
This was a gripping whodunit thriller with lots of family lies and secrets. The setting takes place in the desert of California in an extensive glass house. I really liked the main character Gertie and the house manager-Mrs. Phan but I felt I didn’t connect with any other character in the book. The ending wasn’t as exciting as I was hoping and the “big reveal” wasn’t very big, but over all it was a good popcorn thriller.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: August 12, 2025
The story follows the main character Gertie as she returns back home to meet with her step siblings as her father had passed away and his will needs to be read. Except something seems off with her father’s death, was it actually an accident or was he murdered? Lies and secrets are revealed, will Gertie be able to figure out what had happened before it’s too late?
This was a gripping whodunit thriller with lots of family lies and secrets. The setting takes place in the desert of California in an extensive glass house. I really liked the main character Gertie and the house manager-Mrs. Phan but I felt I didn’t connect with any other character in the book. The ending wasn’t as exciting as I was hoping and the “big reveal” wasn’t very big, but over all it was a good popcorn thriller.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication date: August 12, 2025
August 12, 2025
She Didn’t Stand a Chance 4⭐️
Get ready for deadly family drama. Arnold Glass died on his 90th birthday and Gertie, his youngest child, is determined to figure out who is responsible for his death. The only problem is her older half siblings downright hate her, even more so after they find out she inherited the famous Glass House.
I like Stacie Grey’s writing style. It flows well and keeps my attention. I did guess who the killer was, but that didn’t negatively impact my enjoyment. This is a good whodunit told mostly through Gertie’s POV with some glimpses of Arnold’s POV leading up to his demise.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Aug 12 2025
Get ready for deadly family drama. Arnold Glass died on his 90th birthday and Gertie, his youngest child, is determined to figure out who is responsible for his death. The only problem is her older half siblings downright hate her, even more so after they find out she inherited the famous Glass House.
I like Stacie Grey’s writing style. It flows well and keeps my attention. I did guess who the killer was, but that didn’t negatively impact my enjoyment. This is a good whodunit told mostly through Gertie’s POV with some glimpses of Arnold’s POV leading up to his demise.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Aug 12 2025
July 16, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a complimentary early release copy of She Didn’t Stand A Chance by Stacie Grey.
She Didn’t Stand A Chance didn’t really work for me, the premise of the book sounds intriguing and I’m all for socialite/rich people drama but these characters just didn’t keep me drawn in. I was more interested in the staff then this estranged family, my favorite characters out of this book are Mrs Phan and Boyd but many of the staff members were enjoyable to read about. The mystery of the book was suspenseful in some ways, I was intrigued to figure out what happened but I wasn’t impressed with the way in which things went down. I thought the ending of the book was disappointing and the characters were flat/boring. The writing was nice and detailed but comes across as really formal, there are lots of descriptive bits about the house and desert they are living in. I feel mixed regarding those, while they are nice to help picture the scene better they are repeated a few times and can come across as repetitive.
She Didn’t Stand A Chance didn’t really work for me, the premise of the book sounds intriguing and I’m all for socialite/rich people drama but these characters just didn’t keep me drawn in. I was more interested in the staff then this estranged family, my favorite characters out of this book are Mrs Phan and Boyd but many of the staff members were enjoyable to read about. The mystery of the book was suspenseful in some ways, I was intrigued to figure out what happened but I wasn’t impressed with the way in which things went down. I thought the ending of the book was disappointing and the characters were flat/boring. The writing was nice and detailed but comes across as really formal, there are lots of descriptive bits about the house and desert they are living in. I feel mixed regarding those, while they are nice to help picture the scene better they are repeated a few times and can come across as repetitive.
September 3, 2025
How deeply can words and actions wound you when you least expect it?
Gertie returns to her childhood home for her father's will reading. She discovers she will inherit a substantial part of the family business and his Palm Springs house, angering her estranged siblings. As she feels increasingly isolated, Gertie learns of suspicions surrounding her father's murder. She encounters life-threatening incidents, realizing that navigating this family reunion may be deadly amidst jealousy and hidden secrets.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster, delving into family drama and the stark reality of how some people turn a blind eye to the truth just to cling to others. It vividly shows how hurtful individuals can be to their own kin in their pursuit of what doesn’t belong to them.
Initially, I wasn't sure about this book, but I’m so glad I pushed through because, wow! This family is filled with bitterness and ugliness! Gertie captured my sympathy completely. I was in awe of how she held her ground in the face of others' cutting remarks, making her feel like an outsider. I was firmly on Team Gertie, hoping for a reasonable resolution where she could turn everything around. It seems her father knew more than anyone realized, as he clearly chose the right person for the job. Go Gertie!
Gertie's estranged siblings were incredibly unlikable—rude and lazy! It was obvious they were trying to milk their father’s generosity, thinking it would last forever, but they were in for a rude awakening, and I was all here for it! Gertie wasn’t going to be a pushover; she had a mission to solve her father’s murder and threw herself into the task with determination, despite the tight deadline.
If you enjoy intense family drama fueled by greed, sheer laziness, and the challenges of solving a few murders along the way, this is the perfect read for you. It may start a bit slow, but it’s absolutely worth the journey because you’ll find yourself rooting for Gertie to reclaim her space and kick some undeserving people out of “her” house!
Thank you, Poisoned Pen Press, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Gertie returns to her childhood home for her father's will reading. She discovers she will inherit a substantial part of the family business and his Palm Springs house, angering her estranged siblings. As she feels increasingly isolated, Gertie learns of suspicions surrounding her father's murder. She encounters life-threatening incidents, realizing that navigating this family reunion may be deadly amidst jealousy and hidden secrets.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster, delving into family drama and the stark reality of how some people turn a blind eye to the truth just to cling to others. It vividly shows how hurtful individuals can be to their own kin in their pursuit of what doesn’t belong to them.
Initially, I wasn't sure about this book, but I’m so glad I pushed through because, wow! This family is filled with bitterness and ugliness! Gertie captured my sympathy completely. I was in awe of how she held her ground in the face of others' cutting remarks, making her feel like an outsider. I was firmly on Team Gertie, hoping for a reasonable resolution where she could turn everything around. It seems her father knew more than anyone realized, as he clearly chose the right person for the job. Go Gertie!
Gertie's estranged siblings were incredibly unlikable—rude and lazy! It was obvious they were trying to milk their father’s generosity, thinking it would last forever, but they were in for a rude awakening, and I was all here for it! Gertie wasn’t going to be a pushover; she had a mission to solve her father’s murder and threw herself into the task with determination, despite the tight deadline.
If you enjoy intense family drama fueled by greed, sheer laziness, and the challenges of solving a few murders along the way, this is the perfect read for you. It may start a bit slow, but it’s absolutely worth the journey because you’ll find yourself rooting for Gertie to reclaim her space and kick some undeserving people out of “her” house!
Thank you, Poisoned Pen Press, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 5, 2025
Gertie receives a cryptic letter from her father, someone she hasn't seen since she was a very little girl, and discovers that he's both died and directed for Gertie to be there when the reading of the will happens. As she heads to his sprawling estate to see her 4 siblings she hasn't seen since she last saw her father, she knows this is going to be a very uncomfortable trip and wonders why her father wanted her to make it. After arriving, through, she realizes there may be more to her father's death than she first thought.
I liked Gertie and the mystery of this story. It was fun to try to tie all the clues together. But, for some reason, this one felt long. There were a few times I felt like we were drowning in details, as long paragraphs detailed every little thing Gertie did. I wish the mystery had been just a little more tense. But I did absolutely love the conclusion. Good mystery, I'd read another from this author!
I liked Gertie and the mystery of this story. It was fun to try to tie all the clues together. But, for some reason, this one felt long. There were a few times I felt like we were drowning in details, as long paragraphs detailed every little thing Gertie did. I wish the mystery had been just a little more tense. But I did absolutely love the conclusion. Good mystery, I'd read another from this author!
April 15, 2025
Summary: Gertrude Glass hasn’t seen her father since she was a toddler, but now she receives a letter summoning her to his Palm Springs home for a reading of his will. Gertie is the daughter of Arnold Glass from his second short-lived marriage to her flighty and unpredictable mother Carla. She arrives at the desert modern home in Palm Springs, much to the dismay of her four half-siblings, who object to her presence there. When the will is read and Gertie has inherited a share of the business and the Palm Springs house, they are outraged and spitting with anger, vowing to contest the will. Suspicious about the circumstances around her father’s death, Gertie becomes convinced that his death was not an accident. Soon Gertie is on the receiving end of threats and acts of vandalism, and a member of the household staff dies after being struck by a car. Gertie races to uncover the murderer before she becomes the next victim.
Thoughts: The stark, baking desert and the sparse modern home of Arnold Glass provide the backdrop for the familial drama of the Glass siblings as they spar over the possessions and inheritance from their father. Although Arnold Glass is dead, his actions and attitude during his lifetime provide all the kindling for this family to go up in flames. He was a despicable man, obsessed with his legacy and his name, and treating everyone in his life as disposable. He unceremoniously dumped his first wife and four children for a relationship with Gertie’s mother and after a few years leaves them behind as well without a second glance.
Gertie, on the other hand, is an admirable heroine of this story. She is pragmatic, resourceful and resilient, standing up to the rest of the family and investigating the cause of her father’s death. There is a final ironic twist of fate at the conclusion of the novel which was satisfying and made me chuckle. Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press for this evocative and entertaining read.
Thoughts: The stark, baking desert and the sparse modern home of Arnold Glass provide the backdrop for the familial drama of the Glass siblings as they spar over the possessions and inheritance from their father. Although Arnold Glass is dead, his actions and attitude during his lifetime provide all the kindling for this family to go up in flames. He was a despicable man, obsessed with his legacy and his name, and treating everyone in his life as disposable. He unceremoniously dumped his first wife and four children for a relationship with Gertie’s mother and after a few years leaves them behind as well without a second glance.
Gertie, on the other hand, is an admirable heroine of this story. She is pragmatic, resourceful and resilient, standing up to the rest of the family and investigating the cause of her father’s death. There is a final ironic twist of fate at the conclusion of the novel which was satisfying and made me chuckle. Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press for this evocative and entertaining read.
April 9, 2025
Can I tell you how much I loved Gertie??? I thought she was going to be one of those annoyingly plucky girl Friday types, but she ended up being a slightly bitey bulldog and I was so here for it.
This is a blast of a mystery full of some of the most annoying characters you never want to meet in real life. I was wishing for the downfall of almost everyone and I loved to read them.
There's definitely some humor here, along with a lot of feels.
I still have no idea what the title refers to, lol, but I want more from the author!
* ARC via Publisher
This is a blast of a mystery full of some of the most annoying characters you never want to meet in real life. I was wishing for the downfall of almost everyone and I loved to read them.
There's definitely some humor here, along with a lot of feels.
I still have no idea what the title refers to, lol, but I want more from the author!
* ARC via Publisher
August 18, 2025
3.5 🔑🏠💰
I just finished She Didn’t Stand a Chance, and while it wasn’t perfect, it was an entertaining “popcorn thriller” that kept me turning the pages. The overall mystery and whodunnit angle worked well, and I especially liked the symbolism of the “glass house.” That image, that every family has its secrets, no matter how perfect things look from the outside, gave the story some extra depth.
The main character’s situation added plenty of drama too. She inherited a large sum of money from her dead millionaire father, which immediately put her at odds with her siblings, who had always treated her like an outcast because they saw her mother as a disgrace. That messy family tension carried the story and made the betrayals and suspicions all the more believable.
The mystery itself leaned a little predictable and messy at times, but I still enjoyed it for what it was: a quick, entertaining thriller full of family secrets, drama, and intrigue.
Thank you #Netgalley and #PoisonedPenPress for the chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
I just finished She Didn’t Stand a Chance, and while it wasn’t perfect, it was an entertaining “popcorn thriller” that kept me turning the pages. The overall mystery and whodunnit angle worked well, and I especially liked the symbolism of the “glass house.” That image, that every family has its secrets, no matter how perfect things look from the outside, gave the story some extra depth.
The main character’s situation added plenty of drama too. She inherited a large sum of money from her dead millionaire father, which immediately put her at odds with her siblings, who had always treated her like an outcast because they saw her mother as a disgrace. That messy family tension carried the story and made the betrayals and suspicions all the more believable.
The mystery itself leaned a little predictable and messy at times, but I still enjoyed it for what it was: a quick, entertaining thriller full of family secrets, drama, and intrigue.
Thank you #Netgalley and #PoisonedPenPress for the chance to read this in exchange for an honest review!
August 16, 2025
When Gertie is called to her father Arnold Glass' home after his passing, she's confronted by her less-than-welcoming half-siblings and the eerie suspicion that Arnold didn't just die - he was murdered. When the will is read and it appears Gertie has inherited a large stake in the Glass company and the entirety of the Glass home, more and more bodies start to drop.
SHE DIDN'T STAND A CHANCE is my first read by Stacie Grey and, while it wasn't a favorite, I don't see this being the last.
I really loved the dynamic between Gertie and her half siblings - their true awfulness made it incredibly easy to root for Gertie (lol) and added a really nice drama and distrust to the story.
The heat was pouring off the page and I commend Grey for crafting such a sweaty and uncomfortable atmosphere.
Overall, I wasn't fully roped in to the mystery and it left me desiring a bit more by the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the early copy for review!
SHE DIDN'T STAND A CHANCE is my first read by Stacie Grey and, while it wasn't a favorite, I don't see this being the last.
I really loved the dynamic between Gertie and her half siblings - their true awfulness made it incredibly easy to root for Gertie (lol) and added a really nice drama and distrust to the story.
The heat was pouring off the page and I commend Grey for crafting such a sweaty and uncomfortable atmosphere.
Overall, I wasn't fully roped in to the mystery and it left me desiring a bit more by the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the early copy for review!
September 14, 2025
3.5/5
Thank you @sourcebooks.audio #partner for the gifted copy of this audiobook!
This was my very first book by Stacie Grey, and I have to say it was a solid mystery! Going in blind (like I always do 😂), I thought this one was going to lean more thriller based on the cover, but it definitely read more like a cozy mystery. For me, it felt on the lighter side suspense wise, which actually makes it a great pick for readers who don’t love to be scared but still want a little mystery.
The story follows Gertie, an estranged daughter who returns home after her father passes away to help settle his estate. Things immediately get messy when she finds out her father left her the house…and let’s just say her siblings were not thrilled with that news. 🙃 Honestly, every sibling was awful (not a likable one in the bunch), which made Gertie stand out even more as a character you want to root for.
What I enjoyed most was watching Gertie piece together what really happened to her father and uncovering the secrets her family would rather keep buried. Was it the most unpredictable mystery I’ve ever read? No, but it was still a fun, easy to devour cozy mystery with a likable lead and some family drama that kept me flipping the pages.
Perfect for when you want mystery vibes without diving into something super dark or scary!
Thank you @sourcebooks.audio #partner for the gifted copy of this audiobook!
This was my very first book by Stacie Grey, and I have to say it was a solid mystery! Going in blind (like I always do 😂), I thought this one was going to lean more thriller based on the cover, but it definitely read more like a cozy mystery. For me, it felt on the lighter side suspense wise, which actually makes it a great pick for readers who don’t love to be scared but still want a little mystery.
The story follows Gertie, an estranged daughter who returns home after her father passes away to help settle his estate. Things immediately get messy when she finds out her father left her the house…and let’s just say her siblings were not thrilled with that news. 🙃 Honestly, every sibling was awful (not a likable one in the bunch), which made Gertie stand out even more as a character you want to root for.
What I enjoyed most was watching Gertie piece together what really happened to her father and uncovering the secrets her family would rather keep buried. Was it the most unpredictable mystery I’ve ever read? No, but it was still a fun, easy to devour cozy mystery with a likable lead and some family drama that kept me flipping the pages.
Perfect for when you want mystery vibes without diving into something super dark or scary!
October 3, 2025
She Didn’t Stand A Chance is a domestic mystery that proves money is the root of all evil. When Gertie gets news that her estranged father has died and her presence is requested for the reading of the will, she is out of her element. Returning to a house she hasn’t seen and siblings she hasn’t known since she was a toddler, Gertie is the odd man out- and a welcomed reunion not likely. But what really happened to her father? Was is death an accident … or murder?
This book was well paced and easy to read. It fell short on suspense and tension, but made up for it in family drama. I can’t imagine a world where a real “Gertie” exists, but if only we could all be as altruistic and caring, the world might be a better place! Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC!
This book was well paced and easy to read. It fell short on suspense and tension, but made up for it in family drama. I can’t imagine a world where a real “Gertie” exists, but if only we could all be as altruistic and caring, the world might be a better place! Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC!
September 11, 2025
Same “thriller” formula
Slow fucking pace (but you hold on hope it picks up) + annoying or stupid characters who lack a real substance = a very underwhelming ending that just has you sighing in all the wasted time. 🫠
Slow fucking pace (but you hold on hope it picks up) + annoying or stupid characters who lack a real substance = a very underwhelming ending that just has you sighing in all the wasted time. 🫠
April 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ — She Didn't Stand a Chance by Stacie Grey
In the scorching heat of Palm Springs, secrets fester and jealousy simmers in this tense family thriller. Gertie, estranged from her siblings since early childhood, is summoned back to the family estate for the reading of her father's will. To her shock—and her siblings’ fury—she inherits a significant stake in the family business and their father's beloved home. But Gertie’s inheritance quickly becomes the least of her worries when a suspicious death, a near-fatal accident, and whispers of murder make it clear that someone in the house doesn’t want her there.
This is my second book by Stacie Grey, having read She Left last year (3⭐️), and some of the same issues carried over. While Gertie is a likable and resilient protagonist, the supporting characters—particularly her half-siblings—felt disappointingly one-dimensional. The clear division between “good” and “bad” characters missed the chance to explore more nuanced motivations or moral ambiguity. I would have loved more insight into why her siblings became so bitter and greedy, rather than being told they simply were.
The desert setting had so much potential for adding atmosphere and tension, and while it gave the book a distinctive backdrop, I wish it had been used more thematically. That said, the pacing kept me engaged (aside from a slight lull in the middle), and the payoff was both satisfying and chilling. I did peg the killer early on, which took some of the suspense out, and the Hayley subplot (refusing to provide an alibi out of sheer stubbornness?) really tested my suspension of disbelief.
Mrs. Phan was a standout character and added some much-needed warmth to a mostly cold cast. And while the title doesn’t really align with the plot, the premise—family secrets, a contested will, and a ticking clock as bodies fall—remains a compelling one.
📚 She Didn't Stand a Chance is out August 12th.
Thank you to Stacie Grey, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley for the ARC!
In the scorching heat of Palm Springs, secrets fester and jealousy simmers in this tense family thriller. Gertie, estranged from her siblings since early childhood, is summoned back to the family estate for the reading of her father's will. To her shock—and her siblings’ fury—she inherits a significant stake in the family business and their father's beloved home. But Gertie’s inheritance quickly becomes the least of her worries when a suspicious death, a near-fatal accident, and whispers of murder make it clear that someone in the house doesn’t want her there.
This is my second book by Stacie Grey, having read She Left last year (3⭐️), and some of the same issues carried over. While Gertie is a likable and resilient protagonist, the supporting characters—particularly her half-siblings—felt disappointingly one-dimensional. The clear division between “good” and “bad” characters missed the chance to explore more nuanced motivations or moral ambiguity. I would have loved more insight into why her siblings became so bitter and greedy, rather than being told they simply were.
The desert setting had so much potential for adding atmosphere and tension, and while it gave the book a distinctive backdrop, I wish it had been used more thematically. That said, the pacing kept me engaged (aside from a slight lull in the middle), and the payoff was both satisfying and chilling. I did peg the killer early on, which took some of the suspense out, and the Hayley subplot (refusing to provide an alibi out of sheer stubbornness?) really tested my suspension of disbelief.
Mrs. Phan was a standout character and added some much-needed warmth to a mostly cold cast. And while the title doesn’t really align with the plot, the premise—family secrets, a contested will, and a ticking clock as bodies fall—remains a compelling one.
📚 She Didn't Stand a Chance is out August 12th.
Thank you to Stacie Grey, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley for the ARC!
October 19, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars
Thank you @sourcebooksaudio #Partner for the free alc 💖.
✨What it is about:
Gertie returns to her childhood home for her father’s will reading, only to inherit more than anyone expected, and way more drama. Her jealous siblings aren’t happy, and when a staff member turns up dead and Gertie nearly follows, it is clear that this family reunion could be her one and only. These people are determined to not abide by the will.
💭My thoughts:
This was a fast paced suspenseful mystery/thriller full of unlikeable characters that kept me engaged, and entertained throughout. A super messy family, with a beautiful “glass house” and family heirloom, which was described so well, I felt like I was walking the rooms together with the characters.
Gertie hasn’t stepped foot in the house, or seen her step siblings, since she was very young. She didn’t maintain a relationship with her father, yet in his will, he leaves her the house, which is the very thing that all her siblings want, and won’t let her claim without a fight. As soon as she arrives, she senses something isn’t right about her father’s death, and she is determined to find out what really happened. What she doesn’t expect is the massive can of worms she’s about to open, and how it will end up putting her life in danger.
🎧The audiobook is 7 hours and 43 minutes long, and narrated by Linda Jones. She gave a great performance, effectively portraying Gertie’s determination and smarts, while also showing her vulnerability, confusion, and cautious strength of someone clearly on the outside of the family. It was a great listen!
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Listen if you like:
🏠Palm Springs setting
🏠Modern architecture
🏠Disfunctional families
🏠Will fights
🏠Sibling rivalries
🏠Murder mysteries
⚠️CW: Death of a parent, murder, sibling hostility, vandalism, attempted murder, violence, death via car and bike accident.
Thank you @sourcebooksaudio #Partner for the free alc 💖.
✨What it is about:
Gertie returns to her childhood home for her father’s will reading, only to inherit more than anyone expected, and way more drama. Her jealous siblings aren’t happy, and when a staff member turns up dead and Gertie nearly follows, it is clear that this family reunion could be her one and only. These people are determined to not abide by the will.
💭My thoughts:
This was a fast paced suspenseful mystery/thriller full of unlikeable characters that kept me engaged, and entertained throughout. A super messy family, with a beautiful “glass house” and family heirloom, which was described so well, I felt like I was walking the rooms together with the characters.
Gertie hasn’t stepped foot in the house, or seen her step siblings, since she was very young. She didn’t maintain a relationship with her father, yet in his will, he leaves her the house, which is the very thing that all her siblings want, and won’t let her claim without a fight. As soon as she arrives, she senses something isn’t right about her father’s death, and she is determined to find out what really happened. What she doesn’t expect is the massive can of worms she’s about to open, and how it will end up putting her life in danger.
🎧The audiobook is 7 hours and 43 minutes long, and narrated by Linda Jones. She gave a great performance, effectively portraying Gertie’s determination and smarts, while also showing her vulnerability, confusion, and cautious strength of someone clearly on the outside of the family. It was a great listen!
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Listen if you like:
🏠Palm Springs setting
🏠Modern architecture
🏠Disfunctional families
🏠Will fights
🏠Sibling rivalries
🏠Murder mysteries
⚠️CW: Death of a parent, murder, sibling hostility, vandalism, attempted murder, violence, death via car and bike accident.
April 26, 2025
I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank Stacie Grey, Emily Engwall and Poisoned Pen Press for this amazing opportunity.
“She Didn’t Stand a Chance” is the story of Gertie Glass, a young woman who hasn’t seen her half siblings or father in over two decades. But when her father passes away, and she’s due to inherit a large portion of his state, Gertie goes back to a house she doesn’t remember and people who want to see her far way.. or six feet under
Personal thoughts: This whodunnit mystery hooked me right from the beginning with its short chapters and fast pace. I do wish we could’ve seen a little more substance from Gertie’s half siblings - we see little glimpses here and there but would’ve liked to see what really drives them to act the way they do. Gertie was a little badass, however. I enjoyed that she wasn’t the typical young, naive, FMC so many books have. She stood her ground and spoke her mind (which confuses me given the title of the book) and I honestly could see her becoming a part of a series. While the ending was predictable, I still enjoyed reading the book from beginning to end.
She Didn’t Stand a Chance comes out August 12th and can be pre-ordered now!
3.5 ⭐️
“She Didn’t Stand a Chance” is the story of Gertie Glass, a young woman who hasn’t seen her half siblings or father in over two decades. But when her father passes away, and she’s due to inherit a large portion of his state, Gertie goes back to a house she doesn’t remember and people who want to see her far way.. or six feet under
Personal thoughts: This whodunnit mystery hooked me right from the beginning with its short chapters and fast pace. I do wish we could’ve seen a little more substance from Gertie’s half siblings - we see little glimpses here and there but would’ve liked to see what really drives them to act the way they do. Gertie was a little badass, however. I enjoyed that she wasn’t the typical young, naive, FMC so many books have. She stood her ground and spoke her mind (which confuses me given the title of the book) and I honestly could see her becoming a part of a series. While the ending was predictable, I still enjoyed reading the book from beginning to end.
She Didn’t Stand a Chance comes out August 12th and can be pre-ordered now!
3.5 ⭐️
August 6, 2025
✨️Book Review✨️
She Didn't Stand A Chance
By Stacie Grey
Themes:
🔪 Murder
🏠 Family Drama
💰 Inheritance
Publish Date: August 12th, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5/5)
I was immediately intrigued by the premise: a half-sibling suddenly appears after their shared father’s death to stake a claim in the inheritance—and chaos follows. Stacie Grey does a great job capturing the tension and unease the protagonist feels as long-buried family secrets begin to unravel.
The story has a slow-burn pace, with plenty of dialogue and internal conflict that really amplifies the psychological tension. I especially enjoyed how things grew darker and more desperate as the book progressed—the unraveling felt earned, and the descent into uncertainty kept me invested.
That said, I found myself wishing for a few more sharp twists or shocking reveals. The setup had great potential for some big swings, and while the story was satisfying overall, it leaned more on steady suspense than surprises.
If you enjoy slow-burn thrillers that explore messy family dynamics, buried secrets, and psychological unraveling, this is worth the read.
Thank you to @poisonedpenpress and @netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
She Didn't Stand A Chance
By Stacie Grey
Themes:
🔪 Murder
🏠 Family Drama
💰 Inheritance
Publish Date: August 12th, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5/5)
I was immediately intrigued by the premise: a half-sibling suddenly appears after their shared father’s death to stake a claim in the inheritance—and chaos follows. Stacie Grey does a great job capturing the tension and unease the protagonist feels as long-buried family secrets begin to unravel.
The story has a slow-burn pace, with plenty of dialogue and internal conflict that really amplifies the psychological tension. I especially enjoyed how things grew darker and more desperate as the book progressed—the unraveling felt earned, and the descent into uncertainty kept me invested.
That said, I found myself wishing for a few more sharp twists or shocking reveals. The setup had great potential for some big swings, and while the story was satisfying overall, it leaned more on steady suspense than surprises.
If you enjoy slow-burn thrillers that explore messy family dynamics, buried secrets, and psychological unraveling, this is worth the read.
Thank you to @poisonedpenpress and @netgalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
August 5, 2025
Characters: 3.75⭐️
Setting: 4.00⭐️
Plot: 3.00⭐️
Themes: 3.75⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 3.25⭐️
Emotional Impact: 3.00⭐️
Overall rating: 3.50⭐️
Rounding up for GoodReads
Gertie is the daughter of a very rich man from his second wife. She hasn't seen her elder siblings since she was a toddler. Now, her father is dead and she returns to the family home to find out the house and shares of Arnold's company have been given to her. Now Gertie is trapped in a remote house with people who don't believe she is entitled to anything her father left her.
This cast of characters were the worst sort of people to be stuck in a house with. I felt that the story overall lacked the depth and tension needed for a murder mystery. The mystery of Arnold's death was more about the why and not the who. There were parts I enjoyed, but overall I didn't enjoy this as much as other thrillers I have read recently.
Would I recommend this book? Maybe? As an audiobook preferably.
Thank to Poisoned Pen Press for sending me an early reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Setting: 4.00⭐️
Plot: 3.00⭐️
Themes: 3.75⭐️
Personal enjoyment: 3.25⭐️
Emotional Impact: 3.00⭐️
Overall rating: 3.50⭐️
Rounding up for GoodReads
Gertie is the daughter of a very rich man from his second wife. She hasn't seen her elder siblings since she was a toddler. Now, her father is dead and she returns to the family home to find out the house and shares of Arnold's company have been given to her. Now Gertie is trapped in a remote house with people who don't believe she is entitled to anything her father left her.
This cast of characters were the worst sort of people to be stuck in a house with. I felt that the story overall lacked the depth and tension needed for a murder mystery. The mystery of Arnold's death was more about the why and not the who. There were parts I enjoyed, but overall I didn't enjoy this as much as other thrillers I have read recently.
Would I recommend this book? Maybe? As an audiobook preferably.
Thank to Poisoned Pen Press for sending me an early reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2025
⭐ 3.75/4
She Didn’t Stand a Chance by Stacie Grey is a fast-paced family thriller that keeps you guessing until the final reveal—a true whodunit wrapped in jealousy, betrayal, and scorching desert heat.
The story follows Gertie, who hasn’t seen her siblings since she was a toddler. Summoned back to the Palm Springs family home for the reading of her father’s will, she’s shocked to learn she’s inheriting a significant share of the family business and the prized estate. Her siblings? Equally shocked—and furious.
What starts as an awkward reunion quickly spirals into something far darker. Isolated in a home that doesn’t feel like hers, surrounded by family who act more like enemies, Gertie uncovers hints that her father’s death may not have been natural. And when a staff member dies and Gertie narrowly survives a suspicious accident, the tension spikes—someone clearly doesn’t want her there.
Grey crafts a setting that feels as suffocating and tense as the dry California air. It’s a gripping ride full of shifting suspicions, buried secrets, and family drama that could turn deadly at any moment.
She Didn’t Stand a Chance by Stacie Grey is a fast-paced family thriller that keeps you guessing until the final reveal—a true whodunit wrapped in jealousy, betrayal, and scorching desert heat.
The story follows Gertie, who hasn’t seen her siblings since she was a toddler. Summoned back to the Palm Springs family home for the reading of her father’s will, she’s shocked to learn she’s inheriting a significant share of the family business and the prized estate. Her siblings? Equally shocked—and furious.
What starts as an awkward reunion quickly spirals into something far darker. Isolated in a home that doesn’t feel like hers, surrounded by family who act more like enemies, Gertie uncovers hints that her father’s death may not have been natural. And when a staff member dies and Gertie narrowly survives a suspicious accident, the tension spikes—someone clearly doesn’t want her there.
Grey crafts a setting that feels as suffocating and tense as the dry California air. It’s a gripping ride full of shifting suspicions, buried secrets, and family drama that could turn deadly at any moment.
April 23, 2025
Wow! This book was intense! A whodunit mystery and family drama that blended seamlessly into a dark tale of secrets, murder, and greed. The suspense was utterly relentless with several pulse-pounding moments and claustrophobic situations. I felt like an animal caught in a trap for most of the book. I adored Gertie's character and empathized with the abuse she had to endure, but I am so happy that the author gave her some backbone. It's not often that I have such a deep hatred for characters, but this family of siblings were the worst kind of humans imaginable. They had me seething and gritting my teeth throughout the entire book. None of them were trustworthy, and they all had hidden motives. I had no idea who the guilty party was. The author provided what seemed like an endless list of possibilities that continually dwindled down to a select few and it was still somewhat of a shocker! I very happily can admit that I was hooked from start to finish. I would have liked one final chapter with a final FU from Gertie, but the absence of this didn't take away from my overall enjoyment. I loved it and definitely recommend!
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press for granting me a digital ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press for granting me a digital ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review!
June 7, 2025
She Didn’t Stand a Chance by Stacie Grey
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Dead dad, raging siblings, surprise inheritance, and a whole lot of petty from beyond the grave. 💀😂 Arnold Glass is dead.
Gertrude “Gertie” Glass is now stuck at the reading of a will for a father she didn’t even know — surrounded by siblings who can’t stand that she’s even in the room. Cue the sad piano and sibling side-eyes because, guess what? He left everything to Gertie. 🙃
This story leans all the way into family dysfunction — resentment, secrets, guilt, and the never-ending why did Dad hate us all so much saga. You will feel for each sibling, no matter how chaotic they act, because that deep-rooted pain? Yeah, it’s real.
Now Haylee (yes, with one Y and two E’s)… baby, let’s not even go there. 😂
Also, please remember to appreciate your house staff. That part? Chef’s kiss.
Was it predictable? Yes.
Was it messy and satisfying anyway? Also yes.
Arnold’s letter…had me HOWLING — Serves him right.🤣
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Dead dad, raging siblings, surprise inheritance, and a whole lot of petty from beyond the grave. 💀😂 Arnold Glass is dead.
Gertrude “Gertie” Glass is now stuck at the reading of a will for a father she didn’t even know — surrounded by siblings who can’t stand that she’s even in the room. Cue the sad piano and sibling side-eyes because, guess what? He left everything to Gertie. 🙃
This story leans all the way into family dysfunction — resentment, secrets, guilt, and the never-ending why did Dad hate us all so much saga. You will feel for each sibling, no matter how chaotic they act, because that deep-rooted pain? Yeah, it’s real.
Now Haylee (yes, with one Y and two E’s)… baby, let’s not even go there. 😂
Also, please remember to appreciate your house staff. That part? Chef’s kiss.
Was it predictable? Yes.
Was it messy and satisfying anyway? Also yes.
Arnold’s letter…had me HOWLING — Serves him right.🤣
August 6, 2025
A time was definitely had with this one. ! I found myself hating nearly every character, yet I couldn't put it down! The suspense kept me wanting to turn the page, and if I didn’t have adulting responsibilities, I would have devoured this in a single day. Gertie, our main character, had her moments she was the only one I like, but honestly, I just wanted her to fight back against those half-siblings who were treating her like dirt! 😂 The twists was a bit predictable; I only managed to predict a part of them. This story is packed with family secrets, lies, and a gripping whodunit plot. And can we talk about the dad? Even from beyond the grave, he was still a piece of shit! Overall, this was a thrilling “popcorn” thriller that I couldn’t get enough of! “She Didn’t Stand a Chance” is hitting shelves next Tuesday, August 12, so mark your calendars! A big thank you to Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC; I was totally hooked from start to finish!
May 24, 2025
I loved this book so much, that I read it in just a few hours. I couldn’t put it down! The characters were well-developed - loved a few, hated most of them. I definitely enjoyed how unlikeable Stacie Grey made a majority of the characters.
The book seamlessly blended mystery and domestic suspense, with so many elements of murder and greed. The book could have gone in so many directions from the start and I love that we were given hints and clues to try and figure it out.
I’m still not over the ending and am thankful it was a page-turner. A 5 star read for me, with no hesitation. Highly recommend picking up “She Didn’t Stand a Chance” when it’s released on August 12th.
Thank you NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for my ARC!
The book seamlessly blended mystery and domestic suspense, with so many elements of murder and greed. The book could have gone in so many directions from the start and I love that we were given hints and clues to try and figure it out.
I’m still not over the ending and am thankful it was a page-turner. A 5 star read for me, with no hesitation. Highly recommend picking up “She Didn’t Stand a Chance” when it’s released on August 12th.
Thank you NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for my ARC!
September 10, 2025
It’s a slow roll.
I’m not a fan of the narrator’s delivery of the audio component. It’s hard to explain why, but it doesn’t resonate with me at all.
There's an interesting aspect to the story but I found it predictable and lackluster in a case of rich people behaving badly, exemplifying greed and entitlement.
I didn’t find myself caring about any of the characters.
With thanks to Sourcebooks Audio for the gifted copy.
What to expect:
- [x] Dual timeline
Audiobook:
- [x] Single narrator (Linda Jones)
- [x] Voice quality (sorry-not a fan of delivery)
- [x] Unique sounding characters
Pacing:
- [x] Slow
Recommend:
Maybe
I’m not a fan of the narrator’s delivery of the audio component. It’s hard to explain why, but it doesn’t resonate with me at all.
There's an interesting aspect to the story but I found it predictable and lackluster in a case of rich people behaving badly, exemplifying greed and entitlement.
I didn’t find myself caring about any of the characters.
With thanks to Sourcebooks Audio for the gifted copy.
What to expect:
- [x] Dual timeline
Audiobook:
- [x] Single narrator (Linda Jones)
- [x] Voice quality (sorry-not a fan of delivery)
- [x] Unique sounding characters
Pacing:
- [x] Slow
Recommend:
Maybe
May 10, 2025
Well by golly, this was a pretty damn fun little murder/mystery. I was worried it was going to be slow with the way it started, but I respect that the slowness served its purpose in building up what was coming. I will say, I did solve the “who dunit” part of the mystery but not the “why” but that didn’t deter me from enjoying the book. The way it all came together was orchestrated quite beautifully, actually. Gertrude was an undercover badass FMC, and I think I’d like to be friends with a gal like her in real life.
July 1, 2025
If you're into twisty family dramas with a side of murder, you need to read this book. Gertie returns to a creepy, unfamiliar family estate for her father’s will reading and surprise! She inherits way more than anyone expected, which instantly puts a target on her back. The siblings are bitter, the vibes are tense, and the plot thickens fast with a suspicious death, a shady accident, and a looming question: was her dad murdered?
Big thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this great book!
Big thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this great book!
October 3, 2025
It was an ok book, but nothing compared to several of the books I've read recently. The writing is very plain. They went into great detail on how the house looked, but I didn't really care. The story was decent enough, but the relationships felt awkward and strained. The main character spends much of the book trying to solve the murders of her father and a gardener, but it felt like it jumped around a lot and didn't explain well the connections they were making. Then suddenly, they are like aha I've solved the mystery. It was still an interesting take using a somewhat common scenario (in a house with a bunch of killers trying to figure out who did it). I was still intrigued to find out what happened. It just felt like it was missing something.
April 24, 2025
She Didn't Stand a Chance is a fun sprint of a mystery. Gertrude Glass shows up to her long-estranged father's house to hear the reading of his will and quickly finds herself tasked with solving his murder. All the while she is harangued and hampered by a pack of entitled, spiteful half-siblings that will make the reader's jaw clench. Gertie is a likable, self-reliant main character who is used to rising above hard knocks. The hits start early and come fast, making it hard to believe the whole story takes place over just a few days. Set in the baking desert, the inhospitable landscape is palpable, and is a great companion for her hostile family. Both create dangers readers won't see coming.
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