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Everything We Didn't Say
From the author of Little Broken Things, a “race-to-the-finish family drama” (People) following a mother who must confront the dark summer that changed her life forever in order to reclaim the daughter she left behind.
Juniper Baker had just graduated from high school and was deep in the throes of a summer romance when Cal and Beth Murphy, a childless couple who lived on a neighboring farm, were brutally murdered. When her younger brother became the prime suspect, June’s world collapsed and everything she loved that summer fell away. She left, promising never to return to tiny Jericho, Iowa.
Until now. Officially, she’s back in town to help an ill friend manage the local library. But really, she’s returned to repair her relationship with her teenage daughter, who’s been raised by Juniper’s mother and stepfather since birth—and to solve the infamous Murphy murders once and for all. She knows the key to both lies in the darkest secret of that long-ago summer night, one that’s haunted her for nearly fifteen years.
As history begins to repeat itself and a dogged local true crime podcaster starts delving into the murders, the race to the truth puts past and present on a dangerous collision course. Juniper lands back in an all-too-familiar place with the answers to everything finally in her sights, but this time it’s her daughter’s life that hangs in the balance. Will revealing what really happened mean a fresh start? Or will the truth destroy everything Juniper loves for a second time? Baart once again brilliantly weaves mystery into family drama in this expertly-crafted novel for fans of Lisa Jewell and Megan Miranda.
Juniper Baker had just graduated from high school and was deep in the throes of a summer romance when Cal and Beth Murphy, a childless couple who lived on a neighboring farm, were brutally murdered. When her younger brother became the prime suspect, June’s world collapsed and everything she loved that summer fell away. She left, promising never to return to tiny Jericho, Iowa.
Until now. Officially, she’s back in town to help an ill friend manage the local library. But really, she’s returned to repair her relationship with her teenage daughter, who’s been raised by Juniper’s mother and stepfather since birth—and to solve the infamous Murphy murders once and for all. She knows the key to both lies in the darkest secret of that long-ago summer night, one that’s haunted her for nearly fifteen years.
As history begins to repeat itself and a dogged local true crime podcaster starts delving into the murders, the race to the truth puts past and present on a dangerous collision course. Juniper lands back in an all-too-familiar place with the answers to everything finally in her sights, but this time it’s her daughter’s life that hangs in the balance. Will revealing what really happened mean a fresh start? Or will the truth destroy everything Juniper loves for a second time? Baart once again brilliantly weaves mystery into family drama in this expertly-crafted novel for fans of Lisa Jewell and Megan Miranda.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 2, 2021
1214 people are currently reading
39889 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Baart
16 books1,486 followersNicole Baart is the author of eleven novels, including Everything We Didn’t Say (an October 2021 Book of the Month selection and Amazon Editor's pick) and The Long Way Back. Best known for her “race-to-the-finish family dramas” (People), Baart is also the cofounder of a nonprofit and mother of five. She lives in Iowa with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,855 reviews
February 5, 2023
A sneaky true crime podcast threatening fifteen years old silence of a family as their elder daughter Juniper finally comes back to her hometown to confront the demons of her past!
Oh boy! I always adore the Nicola Baart’s entire works and as fan girl I honestly read anything comes out of her brilliant mind! This book is also unputdownable journey, riveting mystery you read in one sit and then piss off yourself for reading it too fast kind of remarkable novel!
Juniper leaves her hometown Jericho, Iowa as I told at the beginning and she comes back to take care of her friend Cora who suffers from stage 4 breast cancer. She also plans to help her job at Jericho library. Of course she has ulterior motives: before she left the town: her brother became prime suspect of double murder and her best friend Ashley’s big crush Sullivan impregnated her so she leaves her baby girl with her family and heads to the college for starting fresh. But now she hears somebody already threats to talk about Murphys’ murders on true crime podcast for proving her brother Jonathan is the perpetrator: her family reputation will be dragged through the mud for more time.
She already made her research but her mind is still full with unanswered questions which can only be answered by her brother Jonathan who are still presumed murderer in town and they think he got away with murder!
But as soon as she comes back she finds out some prank calls were already made and somebody tries to threat the family.
And her brother’s unexpected accident attracts the attention of the authorities! Is somebody out for revenge of the murders or the real murderer is out there to finish what he’s started!
It was so well written, heart pounding, smart story make me keep guessing till the end. The conclusion is well played and satisfying.
It deserves my full five small town murders, family ties, secrets, teenage motherhood, lies and addictive reading stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Oh boy! I always adore the Nicola Baart’s entire works and as fan girl I honestly read anything comes out of her brilliant mind! This book is also unputdownable journey, riveting mystery you read in one sit and then piss off yourself for reading it too fast kind of remarkable novel!
Juniper leaves her hometown Jericho, Iowa as I told at the beginning and she comes back to take care of her friend Cora who suffers from stage 4 breast cancer. She also plans to help her job at Jericho library. Of course she has ulterior motives: before she left the town: her brother became prime suspect of double murder and her best friend Ashley’s big crush Sullivan impregnated her so she leaves her baby girl with her family and heads to the college for starting fresh. But now she hears somebody already threats to talk about Murphys’ murders on true crime podcast for proving her brother Jonathan is the perpetrator: her family reputation will be dragged through the mud for more time.
She already made her research but her mind is still full with unanswered questions which can only be answered by her brother Jonathan who are still presumed murderer in town and they think he got away with murder!
But as soon as she comes back she finds out some prank calls were already made and somebody tries to threat the family.
And her brother’s unexpected accident attracts the attention of the authorities! Is somebody out for revenge of the murders or the real murderer is out there to finish what he’s started!
It was so well written, heart pounding, smart story make me keep guessing till the end. The conclusion is well played and satisfying.
It deserves my full five small town murders, family ties, secrets, teenage motherhood, lies and addictive reading stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
August 10, 2021
This is my second novel by Nicole Baart and it’s a good one!!!!!!! What kept this from being a 5* for me was the constant back and forth between the past, 14 ½ years ago when Juniper was a teenager and present time. There are quite a few characters to keep track of and that also slowed the pace down a bit.
We join Juniper as she comes back to town to help a dear friend, Cora, manage the local library. She has been diagnosed with cancer and this means she must cut back her hours and learn to lean on others for help.
However Juniper also has other motives for returning. She is determined to solve the dual murders that took place that fateful summer so many years ago. Cal and Beth Murphy were shot to death on the 4th of July. Her brother Jonathan was the prime suspect as he was the one who found them and called 911. He was never convicted and some people think he got AWAY WITH MURDER.
Juniper has a daughter, Willa, whom she left behind as an infant to be raised by her parents, Reb and Law. Her contact has been with isolated visits to town on her daughter's birthday, lots of cards and email exchanges. Juniper wants to be more of a mom to her now.
THIS IS A SMALL TOWN WITH LOTS OF SECRETS!!!
There was a feud between the Tate’s, who owned large amounts of the farmlands and the Murphy’s. The Murphy’s were accusing the Tate’s of poisoning the water and land with use of harmful pesticides.
The police chief, Everett, has a checkered past and we don’t know if he is trustworthy or not???
Ashley is Juniper’s ex-best friend from that fateful summer when Juniper’s actions severed their ties forever. SHE IS NOW MARRIED TO SULLIVAN TATE, WHO HAS A HISTORY WITH JUNIPER!!
At one point during the middle I was ready to find out what really happened that night. It was at about 80% when the secrets started to unfold.
THE ENDING IS TERRIFIC AND UNEXPECTED but believable when all of the facts are laid out. I had NEVER even considered the person who really killed the Murphys but all of the pieces of this INTRICATE PUZZLE fit together perfectly.
This is a beautifully written family drama/mystery and you will need your detective’s hat to figure this one out!!
This novel is set to publish on November 2, 2021
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
We join Juniper as she comes back to town to help a dear friend, Cora, manage the local library. She has been diagnosed with cancer and this means she must cut back her hours and learn to lean on others for help.
However Juniper also has other motives for returning. She is determined to solve the dual murders that took place that fateful summer so many years ago. Cal and Beth Murphy were shot to death on the 4th of July. Her brother Jonathan was the prime suspect as he was the one who found them and called 911. He was never convicted and some people think he got AWAY WITH MURDER.
Juniper has a daughter, Willa, whom she left behind as an infant to be raised by her parents, Reb and Law. Her contact has been with isolated visits to town on her daughter's birthday, lots of cards and email exchanges. Juniper wants to be more of a mom to her now.
THIS IS A SMALL TOWN WITH LOTS OF SECRETS!!!
There was a feud between the Tate’s, who owned large amounts of the farmlands and the Murphy’s. The Murphy’s were accusing the Tate’s of poisoning the water and land with use of harmful pesticides.
The police chief, Everett, has a checkered past and we don’t know if he is trustworthy or not???
Ashley is Juniper’s ex-best friend from that fateful summer when Juniper’s actions severed their ties forever. SHE IS NOW MARRIED TO SULLIVAN TATE, WHO HAS A HISTORY WITH JUNIPER!!
At one point during the middle I was ready to find out what really happened that night. It was at about 80% when the secrets started to unfold.
THE ENDING IS TERRIFIC AND UNEXPECTED but believable when all of the facts are laid out. I had NEVER even considered the person who really killed the Murphys but all of the pieces of this INTRICATE PUZZLE fit together perfectly.
This is a beautifully written family drama/mystery and you will need your detective’s hat to figure this one out!!
This novel is set to publish on November 2, 2021
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
August 12, 2021
TWO TIMELINES
14 Years ago, Cal and Beth Murphy suffered through vandalized property, and the poisoning of their pet dog, before they were brutally murdered. Jonathan Baker became the prime suspect, but he was never convicted, and his sister Juniper’s life was changed forever. She left for college, only returning home about once a year.
In the present day, Juniper has returned to Jericho, Iowa, presumably to help an ill friend manage the local library, and to try to repair her relationship with her 13 year old daughter, who is being raised by her own mother, Reb and step father, Law. But she has actually returned to try and solve the Murphy murders before a local true crime podcaster does. You see, Juniper witnessed something that night that she has never revealed.
History begins to repeat itself, but this time her brother and his family are the targets of vandalism, the death of their family dog and now an accident-with Jonathan’s life hanging in the balance.
There is no doubt that Nicole Baart’s beautiful, descriptive prose is quite lyrical, as we savor life in this small Iowa town, and discover the controversies and secrets of the farming community and its residents. And, eventually the story does wrap up with a SATISFYING conclusion…
BUT-the pace was so SLOW that it just took too long to get there for me!!
It took me a week to read this book, when I can usually read a book every two days!
And, apparently I am a bit of an outlier, here, but I wanted to hear excerpts from the Podcast that lured Juniper back to town, (we heard none) and explore why her friendship with Cora was close enough to bring her home to help at the library. (Where her help didn’t seem to be needed)
In addition, when you leave your infant with your own parents, and have them raise her-visiting once a year-you can’t expect your daughter to just accept you wanting to be a full time parent 13 years later. Face time phone calls and texts don’t cut it.
Had these three sub plots been developed in more detail, perhaps the book would have held my interest more. As it was, I was often BORED.
Many other reviewers have enjoyed this more, so be sure to read some of these reviews as well, to determine if this will be a better fit for your taste. And, definitely check out DeAnn’s amazing review, as we read this together and find out if she enjoyed it more than I did!
3.5 rounded down for the slow pace
Thank You to Atria books for the gifted ARC, provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review! AVAILABLE November 2, 2021.
14 Years ago, Cal and Beth Murphy suffered through vandalized property, and the poisoning of their pet dog, before they were brutally murdered. Jonathan Baker became the prime suspect, but he was never convicted, and his sister Juniper’s life was changed forever. She left for college, only returning home about once a year.
In the present day, Juniper has returned to Jericho, Iowa, presumably to help an ill friend manage the local library, and to try to repair her relationship with her 13 year old daughter, who is being raised by her own mother, Reb and step father, Law. But she has actually returned to try and solve the Murphy murders before a local true crime podcaster does. You see, Juniper witnessed something that night that she has never revealed.
History begins to repeat itself, but this time her brother and his family are the targets of vandalism, the death of their family dog and now an accident-with Jonathan’s life hanging in the balance.
There is no doubt that Nicole Baart’s beautiful, descriptive prose is quite lyrical, as we savor life in this small Iowa town, and discover the controversies and secrets of the farming community and its residents. And, eventually the story does wrap up with a SATISFYING conclusion…
BUT-the pace was so SLOW that it just took too long to get there for me!!
It took me a week to read this book, when I can usually read a book every two days!
And, apparently I am a bit of an outlier, here, but I wanted to hear excerpts from the Podcast that lured Juniper back to town, (we heard none) and explore why her friendship with Cora was close enough to bring her home to help at the library. (Where her help didn’t seem to be needed)
In addition, when you leave your infant with your own parents, and have them raise her-visiting once a year-you can’t expect your daughter to just accept you wanting to be a full time parent 13 years later. Face time phone calls and texts don’t cut it.
Had these three sub plots been developed in more detail, perhaps the book would have held my interest more. As it was, I was often BORED.
Many other reviewers have enjoyed this more, so be sure to read some of these reviews as well, to determine if this will be a better fit for your taste. And, definitely check out DeAnn’s amazing review, as we read this together and find out if she enjoyed it more than I did!
3.5 rounded down for the slow pace
Thank You to Atria books for the gifted ARC, provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review! AVAILABLE November 2, 2021.
November 25, 2021
I hate Ashley.
April 18, 2022
2 Stars
If you happened to see any of my updates while reading this book, you will know that I didn't particularly enjoy the actual...reading experience with this one. Which surprised me. I am usually a sucker for the haunting small town cold case murder mystery; however, this was missing that haunting quality I love, for whatever reason.
Also, I know it's par for the thriller course that information is held back from the reader in order to build suspense, maintain the mystery, yadda, yadda, yadda...
But I feel like the author and narrator here held back so much information that it made me not care about the characters or connect with their choices. I understand the book is called Everything We Didn't Say, but I just can't imagine people not saying something - to immediate family members to whom they were supposedly super close to, no less - in certain situations in this book. It didn't feel authentic and, as a result, these characters didn't feel like real people. I didn't care about them.
That said, my curiosity over what happened/would happen was enough to outweigh my boredom and so, despite considering DNF-ing several times, I finished the book. Take from that what you will.
If you happened to see any of my updates while reading this book, you will know that I didn't particularly enjoy the actual...reading experience with this one. Which surprised me. I am usually a sucker for the haunting small town cold case murder mystery; however, this was missing that haunting quality I love, for whatever reason.
Also, I know it's par for the thriller course that information is held back from the reader in order to build suspense, maintain the mystery, yadda, yadda, yadda...
But I feel like the author and narrator here held back so much information that it made me not care about the characters or connect with their choices. I understand the book is called Everything We Didn't Say, but I just can't imagine people not saying something - to immediate family members to whom they were supposedly super close to, no less - in certain situations in this book. It didn't feel authentic and, as a result, these characters didn't feel like real people. I didn't care about them.
That said, my curiosity over what happened/would happen was enough to outweigh my boredom and so, despite considering DNF-ing several times, I finished the book. Take from that what you will.
August 7, 2021
A slow-burn mystery
This is my third from the author and it had more of a YA feel to it. The chapters switch timelines from 14 years ago when a murder took place to the present. Juniper returns to her hometown to delve into the unsolved murder.
I had a hard time focusing on the many secrets and backgrounds of suspects ( a lot going on here). Juniper's past romance with a teenage love interest kind of lost me and gave it that YA feel. Many small town secrets are slowly revealed along the way. A lot of the characters have vendettas.
The pace picks up quite a bit around 80% and everything resolves in an explosive conclusion that ties it all together nicely. Although this wasn't my favorite from Baart, I'll still be looking forward to her next.
Those who enjoy family drama with a slower pace may enjoy this one.
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my early copy/ OUT November 2, 2021
This is my third from the author and it had more of a YA feel to it. The chapters switch timelines from 14 years ago when a murder took place to the present. Juniper returns to her hometown to delve into the unsolved murder.
I had a hard time focusing on the many secrets and backgrounds of suspects ( a lot going on here). Juniper's past romance with a teenage love interest kind of lost me and gave it that YA feel. Many small town secrets are slowly revealed along the way. A lot of the characters have vendettas.
The pace picks up quite a bit around 80% and everything resolves in an explosive conclusion that ties it all together nicely. Although this wasn't my favorite from Baart, I'll still be looking forward to her next.
Those who enjoy family drama with a slower pace may enjoy this one.
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my early copy/ OUT November 2, 2021
June 14, 2021
Another amazing book written during the COVID lockdown! This was my type of book all the way - a haunting family drama that casts a glaring light on small-town secrets, lies, and murder, and slowly reveals that the past has a long, unforgiving reach. I loved everything about it.
The story is told in dual timelines - Summer 14 years earlier: Juniper Baker had just graduated from high school and was deep in the throes of her first summer romance when Cal and Beth Murphy, a couple who lived on a neighboring farm, were brutally murdered. Her almost-twin brother, Jonathan, was the first on the scene and quickly became the prime suspect, but was never convicted. June’s world collapsed after that day and she left, promising never to return to small town, Jericho, Iowa. The present - Winter now: Juniper's officially back in town to help a sick friend manage the local library. But really she’s returned to repair her fractured family relationship —and to solve the Murphy murders once and for all. She has been collecting evidence for years, and she knows the key lies in the darkest secret of that summer night, and she's ready to finally face it. Coincidentally, a local true crime podcaster starts delving into the murders as well, and the race to the truth puts past and present on a dangerous collision course.
I don't want to say much more, as this is a November, 2021, release and going in completely blind helps add to the magic of the story. I will say that I loved Juniper's character, and found her very relatable. The plot was somewhat of a slow burn, but I never felt bored (some of that is probably due to Baart's beautiful writing style!). There are plenty suspects, and there are just enough clues dropped throughout to realize that the guilty party is likely not the glaringly obvious choice. I found the ending both satisfying and well-played, and had it not been for a clue dropped a chapter or so before the ending, I would have been completely shocked. Even that though was so close to the conclusion, that it didn't really deter from the shock value.
The only thing that I found a bit confusing stylistically was that Juniper's voice in the past is told in the first person, but then in the present, it is told in third person. Maybe that will change prior to the book's release, but it did jump out at me as being odd.
Overall though, Nicole Baart, you have a new fan, and I look forward to reading more of your books! For me, this is a "must read" in 2021. All the stars!
The story is told in dual timelines - Summer 14 years earlier: Juniper Baker had just graduated from high school and was deep in the throes of her first summer romance when Cal and Beth Murphy, a couple who lived on a neighboring farm, were brutally murdered. Her almost-twin brother, Jonathan, was the first on the scene and quickly became the prime suspect, but was never convicted. June’s world collapsed after that day and she left, promising never to return to small town, Jericho, Iowa. The present - Winter now: Juniper's officially back in town to help a sick friend manage the local library. But really she’s returned to repair her fractured family relationship —and to solve the Murphy murders once and for all. She has been collecting evidence for years, and she knows the key lies in the darkest secret of that summer night, and she's ready to finally face it. Coincidentally, a local true crime podcaster starts delving into the murders as well, and the race to the truth puts past and present on a dangerous collision course.
I don't want to say much more, as this is a November, 2021, release and going in completely blind helps add to the magic of the story. I will say that I loved Juniper's character, and found her very relatable. The plot was somewhat of a slow burn, but I never felt bored (some of that is probably due to Baart's beautiful writing style!). There are plenty suspects, and there are just enough clues dropped throughout to realize that the guilty party is likely not the glaringly obvious choice. I found the ending both satisfying and well-played, and had it not been for a clue dropped a chapter or so before the ending, I would have been completely shocked. Even that though was so close to the conclusion, that it didn't really deter from the shock value.
The only thing that I found a bit confusing stylistically was that Juniper's voice in the past is told in the first person, but then in the present, it is told in third person. Maybe that will change prior to the book's release, but it did jump out at me as being odd.
Overall though, Nicole Baart, you have a new fan, and I look forward to reading more of your books! For me, this is a "must read" in 2021. All the stars!
August 10, 2021
My thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Juniper Baker's life did not turn out as planned. Just graduated from high school, Juniper is in love with young Sullivan and she is getting ready to head off to college. She couldn't have been happier - until catastrophe strikes.
Then a double murder occurs at the farm next door and Juniper's brother becomes a suspect. To top things off, Juniper becomes pregnant. It is decided that Juniper will leave her baby daughter with her mother and her stepfather while she continues with her college education. She is discouraged by her mother, and the events surrounding the deaths of Cal and Beth Murphy, from ever returning to the small town of Jericho.
Turns out the town was aptly named. Juniper barely makes it back to town before the local police flag her down. Not an auspicious start!
Juniper has volunteered to help her old friend, the town librarian, who has cancer, but she has a second motive for her return. During her exiled life in Denver, Juniper has been researching the Murphy's murders and is determined to lift the shadow of suspicion from her brother. The title of this novel is a clue in itself: if only certain things had been said by certain people, so much grief could have been avoided. And no, I did not guess who did it, but after a while I suspected EVERYONE!
The ending was action-packed and satisfying. Certain relationships and their potential outcome were left unresolved: the author left this up to the reader to decide, as is often the case with thrillers.
I was sad to read in the author's Acknowledgement that her family had suffered a recent loss and that she and her children were having to cope with grieving along with the COVID pandemic while she wrote this book. These are certainly trying times and my heart goes out to the author and her family. I'm rating this one a 3.8 out of 5.
Juniper Baker's life did not turn out as planned. Just graduated from high school, Juniper is in love with young Sullivan and she is getting ready to head off to college. She couldn't have been happier - until catastrophe strikes.
Then a double murder occurs at the farm next door and Juniper's brother becomes a suspect. To top things off, Juniper becomes pregnant. It is decided that Juniper will leave her baby daughter with her mother and her stepfather while she continues with her college education. She is discouraged by her mother, and the events surrounding the deaths of Cal and Beth Murphy, from ever returning to the small town of Jericho.
Turns out the town was aptly named. Juniper barely makes it back to town before the local police flag her down. Not an auspicious start!
Juniper has volunteered to help her old friend, the town librarian, who has cancer, but she has a second motive for her return. During her exiled life in Denver, Juniper has been researching the Murphy's murders and is determined to lift the shadow of suspicion from her brother. The title of this novel is a clue in itself: if only certain things had been said by certain people, so much grief could have been avoided. And no, I did not guess who did it, but after a while I suspected EVERYONE!
The ending was action-packed and satisfying. Certain relationships and their potential outcome were left unresolved: the author left this up to the reader to decide, as is often the case with thrillers.
I was sad to read in the author's Acknowledgement that her family had suffered a recent loss and that she and her children were having to cope with grieving along with the COVID pandemic while she wrote this book. These are certainly trying times and my heart goes out to the author and her family. I'm rating this one a 3.8 out of 5.
December 5, 2021
About the book: “From the author of Little Broken Things, a “race-to-the-finish family drama” (People) following a mother who must confront the dark summer that changed her life forever in order to reclaim the daughter she left behind.”
Juniper has recently graduated from her small town Iowa high school when her neighbors, Cal and Beth, are murdered, and Juniper’s brother is the suspect. This was a turning point for her, and she decides to leave Jericho, Iowa behind.
Years later she returns to help a sick friend care for the local library. She’s also there to mend fences with her daughter who has been living with her parents, as well as to solve what really happened to her neighbors. A true crime podcaster is also involved in solving the crime.
Told in past and present voices, I loved this small town story full of secrets. The ending especially wowed me. Overall, this is a clever and engaging, carefully-building dramatic mystery and further cements why I won’t miss one of Nicole Baart’s books!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Juniper has recently graduated from her small town Iowa high school when her neighbors, Cal and Beth, are murdered, and Juniper’s brother is the suspect. This was a turning point for her, and she decides to leave Jericho, Iowa behind.
Years later she returns to help a sick friend care for the local library. She’s also there to mend fences with her daughter who has been living with her parents, as well as to solve what really happened to her neighbors. A true crime podcaster is also involved in solving the crime.
Told in past and present voices, I loved this small town story full of secrets. The ending especially wowed me. Overall, this is a clever and engaging, carefully-building dramatic mystery and further cements why I won’t miss one of Nicole Baart’s books!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
October 14, 2021
After 14 years, Juniper Baker just returned to her hometown to help her sick friend Cora and to solve a cold case murder. 14 years ago Juniper’s neighbors Cal and Beth Murphy were brutally murdered. The only suspect was Juniper’s brother Jonathan but the police never had enough evidence to convict him.
Did her brother commit this heinous crime?
Told from Juniper’s point of view with timelines alternate between 14 years ago and to the present.
I was hoping that this would turn out to be a murder mystery thriller but instead, it was more of a young adult or family drama. This is a very slow-paced story. I honestly found myself bored at times and I didn't get interested in this story until the halfway mark. Also, there is a lot is going on here, with too many side storylines to keep up with. When it was time for the big “reveal” I found it completely underwhelming. There was no suspense or red herrings. It all just happened in less than two pages and then it was over.
I was disappointed that there was very little mention of the podcast in the book. Which was the main reason I chose this book for my October Book of the Month to start with.
I didn't like the main character at all. She was extremely self-centered and snobbish. Another reason she came back to her hometown was to repair her relationship with her daughter Willa that she abandoned 13 years ago and left for her parents to raise. Juniper expected her daughter to welcome her back with open arms. Without giving too much away Juniper was also surprised when she discovered a former friend Ashley, despises her after Juniper stabbed her in the back 14 years ago.
I'm sure that a lot of readers will really enjoy this book but overall, this one just was not my cup of tea.
Did her brother commit this heinous crime?
Told from Juniper’s point of view with timelines alternate between 14 years ago and to the present.
I was hoping that this would turn out to be a murder mystery thriller but instead, it was more of a young adult or family drama. This is a very slow-paced story. I honestly found myself bored at times and I didn't get interested in this story until the halfway mark. Also, there is a lot is going on here, with too many side storylines to keep up with. When it was time for the big “reveal” I found it completely underwhelming. There was no suspense or red herrings. It all just happened in less than two pages and then it was over.
I was disappointed that there was very little mention of the podcast in the book. Which was the main reason I chose this book for my October Book of the Month to start with.
I didn't like the main character at all. She was extremely self-centered and snobbish. Another reason she came back to her hometown was to repair her relationship with her daughter Willa that she abandoned 13 years ago and left for her parents to raise. Juniper expected her daughter to welcome her back with open arms. Without giving too much away Juniper was also surprised when she discovered a former friend Ashley, despises her after Juniper stabbed her in the back 14 years ago.
I'm sure that a lot of readers will really enjoy this book but overall, this one just was not my cup of tea.
August 15, 2021
3.5 cold case stars
This slow burn mystery is set in a small town in Iowa. The premise is one I’ve read before, a decades old unsolved murder and the main character returns to town and the case gets renewed interest. Two things I will remember from this book – the unique character names (Juniper, Reb, Law, Willa) and the fact that it was a slow read!
In this one, we have Juniper, she’s escaped to Denver from her Iowa hometown and works in a library. She returns to Jericho to help her librarian friend Cora. She would also love to work on her relationship with her daughter, left behind in Iowa all these years to be raised by Juniper’s mom and stepdad.
The book alternates between present day chapters and then back about 14 years to the summer before she was set to leave for college. Juniper is in love that summer and trying to hide it. There’s also a terrible tragedy with neighbors Cal and Beth Murphy murdered and Juniper’s brother is the prime suspect. He’s never charged with the crime and the case goes unsolved.
A new podcast is rumored to be starting to get to the bottom of the murders. As a reader, I was hoping for some episodes to be included! There’s a police officer in town who is reopening the case as well.
This one had a great ending that I did not guess, but I wish the pace were a bit faster.
This made for a great buddy read with Jayme and we definitely had the same slow read experience!
Thank you to Atria for the copy to read and review. This one is scheduled to be released 11.2.2021.
This slow burn mystery is set in a small town in Iowa. The premise is one I’ve read before, a decades old unsolved murder and the main character returns to town and the case gets renewed interest. Two things I will remember from this book – the unique character names (Juniper, Reb, Law, Willa) and the fact that it was a slow read!
In this one, we have Juniper, she’s escaped to Denver from her Iowa hometown and works in a library. She returns to Jericho to help her librarian friend Cora. She would also love to work on her relationship with her daughter, left behind in Iowa all these years to be raised by Juniper’s mom and stepdad.
The book alternates between present day chapters and then back about 14 years to the summer before she was set to leave for college. Juniper is in love that summer and trying to hide it. There’s also a terrible tragedy with neighbors Cal and Beth Murphy murdered and Juniper’s brother is the prime suspect. He’s never charged with the crime and the case goes unsolved.
A new podcast is rumored to be starting to get to the bottom of the murders. As a reader, I was hoping for some episodes to be included! There’s a police officer in town who is reopening the case as well.
This one had a great ending that I did not guess, but I wish the pace were a bit faster.
This made for a great buddy read with Jayme and we definitely had the same slow read experience!
Thank you to Atria for the copy to read and review. This one is scheduled to be released 11.2.2021.
April 15, 2022
Fourteen years ago Juniper Baker was looking ahead to her future; one that meant leaving her small town behind and never looking back. But her last summer in Jericho would end up pushing her away for reasons far bigger than she could have imagined. A forbidden love, a pregnancy, and a double murder that rocked the town were things she hoped she had left far behind her. But now, after coming back home to aid a dying friend, she is plunged nearly immediately back into drama. Someone is looking back into the murders, she feels like a stranger in her own home, and someone may just be coming after her and her family.
At the end of the blurb, this book is described as a mystery woven into family drama. Before you read this one, make sure you know you’re getting something that is much, much heavier on the family drama end of things. With quite a bit of coming-of-age YA thrown in as well. I did enjoy the writing and I might have forgiven the misleading genre had I not had so many problems with the plot. So many things are unresolved, unexplained, or contradictory.
Juniper supposedly left town never to return. Except she does, yearly? This time she just happens to be back for a slightly longer stretch because she’s helping out a dying friend Cora at the library she oversees. Speaking of said dying friend, this relationship is never explained. At the beginning of the book it would seem as though Cora is some type of surrogate mother figure to Juniper, but the two share very few scenes and the only time we meet Cora in the past timeline is when she’s mentioning Juniper has become a stranger to the library. I suppose I’ll do the author’s job for her and make up a backstory that Juniper spent the time she was pregnant at 18 at the library all day, and that is when the two bonded. Before Juniper went off to college to do her never (yearly) returning, claiming to have been banished (again, not explained).
Very little time was spent discussing the bond or lack thereof Juniper had with her daughter Willa. In fact it seemed as though Juniper could barely understand why her teenage daughter wouldn't welcome her back into her life as her mother with open arms, despite the fact that the two are near strangers. The podcast so heavily focused on in the blurb barely comes into play at all, there is a manilla folder I’m still scratching my head about, and various other anti-Chekhov's guns strewn about the book. This is also one of those stories where everyone has secrets, but not the kind of secrets normal people would want or be able to keep. Willa's parentage being a giant mystery to the dad, come on... seriously? Just add that to the list of things that make it feel as though this book is a rough first draft that needed a whole lot more fleshing out, and/or to have some of the extraneous storylines cut out.
It feels odd to rate this one so low because I often enjoyed the atmosphere and reading experience, when I wasn’t questioning the plot. I don’t mind slow burns, which this very much was, but if you’re going to keep a book character and relationship driven, loose ends stand out all the more.
**Hey all, just a note - Thank you so much for the kind words and support while I’ve been fairly absent from Goodreads. I’m going to try to keep reading and reviewing, but I will probably have to step back quite a bit from the commenting/social aspect of the site. As always, I appreciate the comments and love a good discussion, and will try to engage when I can!**
At the end of the blurb, this book is described as a mystery woven into family drama. Before you read this one, make sure you know you’re getting something that is much, much heavier on the family drama end of things. With quite a bit of coming-of-age YA thrown in as well. I did enjoy the writing and I might have forgiven the misleading genre had I not had so many problems with the plot. So many things are unresolved, unexplained, or contradictory.
Juniper supposedly left town never to return. Except she does, yearly? This time she just happens to be back for a slightly longer stretch because she’s helping out a dying friend Cora at the library she oversees. Speaking of said dying friend, this relationship is never explained. At the beginning of the book it would seem as though Cora is some type of surrogate mother figure to Juniper, but the two share very few scenes and the only time we meet Cora in the past timeline is when she’s mentioning Juniper has become a stranger to the library. I suppose I’ll do the author’s job for her and make up a backstory that Juniper spent the time she was pregnant at 18 at the library all day, and that is when the two bonded. Before Juniper went off to college to do her never (yearly) returning, claiming to have been banished (again, not explained).
Very little time was spent discussing the bond or lack thereof Juniper had with her daughter Willa. In fact it seemed as though Juniper could barely understand why her teenage daughter wouldn't welcome her back into her life as her mother with open arms, despite the fact that the two are near strangers. The podcast so heavily focused on in the blurb barely comes into play at all, there is a manilla folder I’m still scratching my head about, and various other anti-Chekhov's guns strewn about the book. This is also one of those stories where everyone has secrets, but not the kind of secrets normal people would want or be able to keep. Willa's parentage being a giant mystery to the dad, come on... seriously? Just add that to the list of things that make it feel as though this book is a rough first draft that needed a whole lot more fleshing out, and/or to have some of the extraneous storylines cut out.
It feels odd to rate this one so low because I often enjoyed the atmosphere and reading experience, when I wasn’t questioning the plot. I don’t mind slow burns, which this very much was, but if you’re going to keep a book character and relationship driven, loose ends stand out all the more.
**Hey all, just a note - Thank you so much for the kind words and support while I’ve been fairly absent from Goodreads. I’m going to try to keep reading and reviewing, but I will probably have to step back quite a bit from the commenting/social aspect of the site. As always, I appreciate the comments and love a good discussion, and will try to engage when I can!**
October 17, 2021
Very low 2 stars. Found this to be extremely boring & not much of a mystery.
March 3, 2021
Nicole Baart is master of crafting family dramas around a compelling mystery, and in Everything We Didn’t Say she expertly weaves past and present into a journey to the truth of a decades-old murder case. Creepy and atmospheric, with vivid and emotional prose, this slow-burn will have you thinking twice about the people you know.
January 19, 2023
Juniper Baker has finished high school and is involved in a summer romance, when neighbours Cal and Beth Murphy are brutally murdered. Juniper’s younger brother Jonathon is the prime suspect. But nothing is ever proved. It doesn’t stop the gossip and speculation though. June leaves vowing never to return to Jericho, Iowa. But then, almost fifteen years later, when her friend and mentor Cora gets sick, June returns to help Cora and take on her duties at the local library. She also hopes to repair the relationship with her thirteen year old daughter, Willa, who has been raised by June’s mother Rebecca and stepfather Lawrence. Plus, June is determined to find the truth about the murders of the Murphys. But will that cause more trouble. And who is the other person interested in the cold case and why?
The story is told from present day and events leading up to that fateful night of the murders fourteen and a half years earlier. The characters are interesting and tension is maintained throughout. It is not fast paced but a steady reveal as the story twists and turns and secrets come to light. Several red herrings are thrown up in the course of the story.
This is the second book I have read by this author and I enjoyed it more than than the first one. It kept my interest and Cora is easy to like. An enjoyable read that should appeal to many.
The story is told from present day and events leading up to that fateful night of the murders fourteen and a half years earlier. The characters are interesting and tension is maintained throughout. It is not fast paced but a steady reveal as the story twists and turns and secrets come to light. Several red herrings are thrown up in the course of the story.
This is the second book I have read by this author and I enjoyed it more than than the first one. It kept my interest and Cora is easy to like. An enjoyable read that should appeal to many.
October 22, 2021
A fast paced page turner read, this story’s numerous secrets kept me turning the pages. I loved secrets and they were being sprinkled out slowly as the story evolved. Juniper is one main character that I dislike, both as a teenager and as an adult. As a teenager, she seemed selfish and lived inside her head all the time. She couldn’t spare any time for her brother and her mom who sounded troubled as if they were wrestling a demon of their own. As an adult, she complained why her daughter didn’t welcome her with open arms when she was the one who left. Her hot and cold feelings as she talked to Everett was weird. One moment she felt anxious being near him and the next she felt compassion for him.
This book started in the present day with Juniper, 33, as she made her way back to Jericho, a town with the population of 4,000. She used to live here 15 years ago but has been living in Denver, CO. Now she’s back and wanting to be more of a hands on mom. Her daughter, Willa who’s 13 has been living with her mom Reb and stepfather Law since she was a baby. Juniper had with her a whole collection of the Murphy murders from 15 years ago, one where her brother was accused and where she has been researching to solve the mystery. She also came back to be with her friend Cora, 68. The alternative timeline was 14.5 years ago with Juniper, 18 turning 19, waking up hungover from her graduation party the night before. She has a younger brother Jonathan, 18 who often acted as her older brother. The siblings were inseparable and were like twins because they can finish each other’s sentences. That summer everything seemed to change. Juniper planned on going away for college and her mom seemed to have secrets she’s hiding as well as Jonathan. She was left with the guy she didn’t intend to fall in love with and in the meantime ruined her friendship with Ashley for wanting him. The story weaved back and forth with lots of secrets and suspense. There’s an epilogue at the end of the book.
Everything We Didn’t Say was well written and often unputdownable. I loved the bombshell twists at the end. I didn’t expect it even though the suspense was killing me. It would have been nice to know the history of Juniper’s father. It’s odd that her family don’t communicate much. I think my family overshare sometimes, probably me more than others. Juniper’s 19 in this story but she seems younger because she didn’t know what’s going on around her until being told. I don’t know how Juniper figure out it was “him” when he mentioned about digging up the past. I read that paragraph 3x. The timeline for this story was simple, winter vs summer with 14.5 years difference. I liked the mentioned of water contamination, fertilizer, and farming. I liked the siblings relationship and how the younger brother who is close in age to the older sister acted more responsible and mature than she. Anyhow, this story was an enjoyable read and I recommend everyone to read this book!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.com for more details
Many thanks to Atria Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
This book started in the present day with Juniper, 33, as she made her way back to Jericho, a town with the population of 4,000. She used to live here 15 years ago but has been living in Denver, CO. Now she’s back and wanting to be more of a hands on mom. Her daughter, Willa who’s 13 has been living with her mom Reb and stepfather Law since she was a baby. Juniper had with her a whole collection of the Murphy murders from 15 years ago, one where her brother was accused and where she has been researching to solve the mystery. She also came back to be with her friend Cora, 68. The alternative timeline was 14.5 years ago with Juniper, 18 turning 19, waking up hungover from her graduation party the night before. She has a younger brother Jonathan, 18 who often acted as her older brother. The siblings were inseparable and were like twins because they can finish each other’s sentences. That summer everything seemed to change. Juniper planned on going away for college and her mom seemed to have secrets she’s hiding as well as Jonathan. She was left with the guy she didn’t intend to fall in love with and in the meantime ruined her friendship with Ashley for wanting him. The story weaved back and forth with lots of secrets and suspense. There’s an epilogue at the end of the book.
Everything We Didn’t Say was well written and often unputdownable. I loved the bombshell twists at the end. I didn’t expect it even though the suspense was killing me. It would have been nice to know the history of Juniper’s father. It’s odd that her family don’t communicate much. I think my family overshare sometimes, probably me more than others. Juniper’s 19 in this story but she seems younger because she didn’t know what’s going on around her until being told. I don’t know how Juniper figure out it was “him” when he mentioned about digging up the past. I read that paragraph 3x. The timeline for this story was simple, winter vs summer with 14.5 years difference. I liked the mentioned of water contamination, fertilizer, and farming. I liked the siblings relationship and how the younger brother who is close in age to the older sister acted more responsible and mature than she. Anyhow, this story was an enjoyable read and I recommend everyone to read this book!
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.com for more details
Many thanks to Atria Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
January 8, 2022
A heart pounding brilliant suspense thriller.
I read some and I listened on audio to other parts depending on what I was doing or where I was.
The plot is very well thought out and constructed feverly keeping you tuned in and on edge.
My downside was I had a hard time keeping up with the numerous characters and the back and forth from present to fourteen years ago. You really do need to concentrate well or you can quickly loose it and need to go back a few pages for refresh.
Nicole Baart is fast taking over my regular “not gonna think about it, just gonna buy it” authors.
Very good book and well executed.
It’s definitely for readers who like suspense with thriller elements thrown in, yet, also for me had a slight contemporary feel to it in parts.
I read some and I listened on audio to other parts depending on what I was doing or where I was.
The plot is very well thought out and constructed feverly keeping you tuned in and on edge.
My downside was I had a hard time keeping up with the numerous characters and the back and forth from present to fourteen years ago. You really do need to concentrate well or you can quickly loose it and need to go back a few pages for refresh.
Nicole Baart is fast taking over my regular “not gonna think about it, just gonna buy it” authors.
Very good book and well executed.
It’s definitely for readers who like suspense with thriller elements thrown in, yet, also for me had a slight contemporary feel to it in parts.
December 18, 2021
Give me a good mystery and some family drama and I'm a happy camper. The small town setting helped set the tone for this slow burn mystery. The complex relationships of the characters as well as wanting answers to what happened so many years ago is what drove my interest in the story.
Not long after Juniper Baker graduated high school, her neighbors, Cal and Beth Murphy, were murdered. Juniper left her hometown of Jericho and her mom and stepdad ended up raising her daughter. Years later, Juniper is back hoping to repair her relationship with her kid and to help solve the Murphy case once and for all. Will uncovering the truth come at a terrible cost?
The author did a good job coming up with a solid mystery. It's one that I just had to watch unfold because if there were hints dropped along the way, I certainly didn't pick up on anything until close to the end. And even then, I was still fuzzy on the details until everything was spelled out.
Some readers might think the pacing is too slow but I thought the alternating timelines between the current day Juniper and the past in which you see what led up to that fateful night, kept things moving along quite well. And without getting into spoilers ,I liked how the non mystery elements of the story were handled in the conclusion.
If you like this genre, I recommended checking this book out.
Thank you to Atria Books for providing me with a copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Not long after Juniper Baker graduated high school, her neighbors, Cal and Beth Murphy, were murdered. Juniper left her hometown of Jericho and her mom and stepdad ended up raising her daughter. Years later, Juniper is back hoping to repair her relationship with her kid and to help solve the Murphy case once and for all. Will uncovering the truth come at a terrible cost?
The author did a good job coming up with a solid mystery. It's one that I just had to watch unfold because if there were hints dropped along the way, I certainly didn't pick up on anything until close to the end. And even then, I was still fuzzy on the details until everything was spelled out.
Some readers might think the pacing is too slow but I thought the alternating timelines between the current day Juniper and the past in which you see what led up to that fateful night, kept things moving along quite well. And without getting into spoilers ,I liked how the non mystery elements of the story were handled in the conclusion.
If you like this genre, I recommended checking this book out.
Thank you to Atria Books for providing me with a copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
November 12, 2021
I really wanted to love this book and normally I really enjoy a slow burn but this just didn’t do it for me.
What I liked:
- it was a well written story
- for a familiar storyline, it has a lot of unique elements
- I always love a story that unfolds with a past and present timeline
What I didn’t like:
- the mix of tenses. When Juniper recalled the past, it was in first person but the present day story was focused on her but in third person. It read really choppy to me because of this.
- so slow. I often forgot what the point of the story was because there were tangent storylines and for a short book everything was just so drawn out.
- the tangent storylines. Between the murders, the feud between the Tates and the Murphy’s, the dead animals, the vandalism, Cora’s cancer, the environmental pollution, the family drama, the police involvement, the frayed relationships, the podcast, etc etc there was just too much going on that I struggled to get invested in any of it.
- we didn’t have enough clues to solve the mystery and some facts about the night of the murders should have been divulged sooner. That being said, it was still pretty predictable. This point will only make sense if you read it!
- there were a lot of storylines, particularly regarding the relationships, that felt like loose ends to me. For example Juniper and her daughter Willa - totally didn’t understand the history there at all. It was vaguely explained but I think it could have played out much better. And also Ashley and Juniper - it was such a huge part of the story yet basically irrelevant to the plot.
- it was so easy for me to put this book down. When I would really focus and read for several chapters I would enjoy it but I always had to force myself to pick it up.
What I liked:
- it was a well written story
- for a familiar storyline, it has a lot of unique elements
- I always love a story that unfolds with a past and present timeline
What I didn’t like:
- the mix of tenses. When Juniper recalled the past, it was in first person but the present day story was focused on her but in third person. It read really choppy to me because of this.
- so slow. I often forgot what the point of the story was because there were tangent storylines and for a short book everything was just so drawn out.
- the tangent storylines. Between the murders, the feud between the Tates and the Murphy’s, the dead animals, the vandalism, Cora’s cancer, the environmental pollution, the family drama, the police involvement, the frayed relationships, the podcast, etc etc there was just too much going on that I struggled to get invested in any of it.
- we didn’t have enough clues to solve the mystery and some facts about the night of the murders should have been divulged sooner. That being said, it was still pretty predictable. This point will only make sense if you read it!
- there were a lot of storylines, particularly regarding the relationships, that felt like loose ends to me. For example Juniper and her daughter Willa - totally didn’t understand the history there at all. It was vaguely explained but I think it could have played out much better. And also Ashley and Juniper - it was such a huge part of the story yet basically irrelevant to the plot.
- it was so easy for me to put this book down. When I would really focus and read for several chapters I would enjoy it but I always had to force myself to pick it up.
September 20, 2021
I have just finished reading Everything We Didn't Say by Nicole Baart.
She is an Author that I have read from before and enjoyed.
This storyline is told between two timelines, about a young mother who left a baby behind with her mother, as she moved on.
There is a murder that takes place during her teenage years that was never closed.
Good writing, characters, and storyline.
#NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley, Author Nicole Baart and Atria Books. For my advanced copy to read and review
She is an Author that I have read from before and enjoyed.
This storyline is told between two timelines, about a young mother who left a baby behind with her mother, as she moved on.
There is a murder that takes place during her teenage years that was never closed.
Good writing, characters, and storyline.
#NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley, Author Nicole Baart and Atria Books. For my advanced copy to read and review
August 23, 2021
I loved writing this book and can't wait to share it with you! 🎉
“[A] lyrical suspense novel… Baart delivers enough twists not to disappoint as she movingly evokes love and innocence lost. This delayed coming-of-age story will have broad appeal.”
-Publishers Weekly
“[A] lyrical suspense novel… Baart delivers enough twists not to disappoint as she movingly evokes love and innocence lost. This delayed coming-of-age story will have broad appeal.”
-Publishers Weekly
October 25, 2021
A slow burn mystery set in the town of Iowa.
A decades old unsolved murder mystery where Juniper goes back to try and solve this cold case.
Nicole Baart is such a master of writing complex and compelling family dramas. With ease, Nicole beautifully weaves past and present into this murder mystery.
Such a creepy and eery slow burn that will leave you questioning every character. I just love Baart's prose and writing style.
The only minor issues I had with this one is that it has a lot going on and was a little confused by the many secrets and characters.
Another fabulous book by Baart and can't wait to see her next release!!
3.75/5 stars
Thank you so much to Atria for my arc!!
A decades old unsolved murder mystery where Juniper goes back to try and solve this cold case.
Nicole Baart is such a master of writing complex and compelling family dramas. With ease, Nicole beautifully weaves past and present into this murder mystery.
Such a creepy and eery slow burn that will leave you questioning every character. I just love Baart's prose and writing style.
The only minor issues I had with this one is that it has a lot going on and was a little confused by the many secrets and characters.
Another fabulous book by Baart and can't wait to see her next release!!
3.75/5 stars
Thank you so much to Atria for my arc!!
June 13, 2023
Check out my fun #AuthorElevatorSeries interview— where we go behind-the-scenes of the book and this master storyteller, Nicole Baart.
EVERYTHING WE DIDN'T SAY is extraordinary!! This family has gigantic secrets.
Multi-layered and psychologically rich, a compelling and skillfully-plotted twisty crime/psychological thriller where the past and present collide, with a protagonist you will root for to the end.
Master storyteller Nicole Baart dazzles as she returns following You Were Always Mine with her tenth novel and best yet —EVERYTHING WE DIDN'T SAY. Sins of the past come back to haunt, and hidden secrets abound.
A woman returns to her Iowa hometown to face down her past. She dives into the secrets of her family while reclaiming what she left behind. She hopes to help a friend in need and help solve the cold case that haunted her life and family for years.
Juniper is returning to the small rural town of Jericho, Iowa, leaving her job temporarily in Denver as Special Collections and College Archives librarian (opened ended leave of absence). She is to help out her friend, Cora, who runs the local Jericho Public library and has stage four breast cancer.
Fifteen years ago, there was a tragic double murder of a sweet couple, Cal and Beth Murphy, and dog, Baxter (poisoned). They were different than most folks in the area, and they owned the hobby farm where they sold organic fruits and vegetables, made handmade goat milk soap and jams, and had beautiful flowers for sale from their garden at their roadside stand.
Who would want to murder them and why? A lovely wholesome young couple, but what was the motive? Was there a witness they missed? Because it was such a small town, the FBI did not put a lot of energy into it. However, it is coming alive once again.
The Murphys were neighbors of Juniper's family. Jonathan, her stepbrother only a year younger than her, was very close to them and helped them out since they had no children.
This town does not bring back fond memories for Juniper (June), who found herself pregnant as a young teen and went off to college. She left her daughter Willa with her mom and stepdad to raise, and her visits are always awkward. They have a strained relationship, and she finds it very difficult to step back into her old life.
To complicate matters, someone is stirring up the decades-old cold-case murder again. All fingers pointed to Jonathan since he found the bodies. But he was the one who called it in, and they had no other evidence, so he was not charged back then, but everyone has always believed it was him.
Now someone has a true-crime podcast and blog called Jericho Unscripted, and they are digging up old secrets and the past. Something else happened that night of the murders that changed the course of Juniper's life.
Flashing back and forth from 14 1/2 years ago to the present, we learn about her mom and stepdad's strained troubled relationship. It seems everyone is hiding something, thinking they are protecting themselves or others.
Guilty or not, her brother bore the stain of accusation and had been treated accordingly for almost fifteen years. People in the area thought he got away with murder. He had to start his own web business because no one in town would hire him.
No one was entirely innocent, and not even Jonathan or maybe June. Is the original killer back? Then there is Ashley, June's nemesis and former best friend (great back story here) who is also holding a grudge and now married to the rich boy Sullivan (June's former love) and the powerful Tate Family Farms that runs the town.
June was someone's alibis. Does she recall what happened? There are also plenty of red herrings and suspects with this powerful Tate family.
Strange things start happening again after she arrives in town —phone calls, drive-bys, harassment, sliced tires, dog poisoning, etc. In addition, Jonathan is acting weird and hanging out with the wrong crowd and seems to be hiding something from her. Her mom is also drinking more and not herself, and is she missing clues?
When her brother winds up in the hospital, Juniper is scared for her life and her brother. Maybe the secrets she had buried in the Iowa soil were now bearing bitter fruit.
The frantic race to find the truth places her family on a dangerous course. Land contamination and other issues put others under suspicion for the double murders, but those families (Tates) were like royalty, and no one would cross them.
When she left at age nineteen, she was edged out of her daughter's life and sent off to college as if nothing had happened. Now there is Sullivan Tate. But she has a job and a life and is strong and independent.
What about the Tate family? Everyone knew the Tates and the Murphys were feuding that summer over the land spillage. However, everyone is still pointing fingers at Jonathan, and she must help prove his innocence. He was the one who called 911 that night so long ago, and Jonathan was devastated when they died.
June is also holding a secret about her daughter's father and others about the night of the murders. Her mom is hiding something, and June senses her mom and brother need protection. She does not even know the identity of her father.
No one is communicating. June, stuck in Jericho, and her decisions have the potential to unravel her world. Can she have love again, and will her daughter want to come and live with her in Denver one day? A second chance? Can she mend her relationship with her brother? Everyone seems to be dealing with their pain and memories in their own way.
Were the murders premeditated, a crime of passion? THE TRUTH IS ALWAYS IN THE DETAILS.
"Guilt, grief, and love are sometimes impossible to untangle, and we all have regrets."
Atmospheric, Riveting, Haunting!
WOW! The author racks up the suspense to the explosive ending. EVERYTHING WE DIDN'T SAY is a perfectly fitting title for this well-written, emotionally-charged gripping thriller with richly drawn characters, lyrical prose, and vivid descriptions. The author is in total control, and fans of true-crime fiction will devour this one.
I found it difficult to put down and read in two sittings. Fans of Heather Gudenkauf, Mary Kubica, Lisa Unger, Wendy Walker, and Lisa Jewell will find a lot to like here! Top Books of 2021.
A special thank you to #AtriaBooks and #NetGalley for an early reading copy. I also pre-ordered the paperback and cannot wait to receive it today.
Blog Review:
#JDCMustReadBooks
@JudithDCollins
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pub Date: 11/2/2021
Publisher: Atria Books
EVERYTHING WE DIDN'T SAY is extraordinary!! This family has gigantic secrets.
Multi-layered and psychologically rich, a compelling and skillfully-plotted twisty crime/psychological thriller where the past and present collide, with a protagonist you will root for to the end.
Master storyteller Nicole Baart dazzles as she returns following You Were Always Mine with her tenth novel and best yet —EVERYTHING WE DIDN'T SAY. Sins of the past come back to haunt, and hidden secrets abound.
"Sometimes the world is fire and ash, dirt and blood spilled on the ground, and there is nothing you can do to stop it. Sometimes you pour out all of your love, and it returns to you brittle and empty. But sometimes, we're given another chance. We begin again."
A woman returns to her Iowa hometown to face down her past. She dives into the secrets of her family while reclaiming what she left behind. She hopes to help a friend in need and help solve the cold case that haunted her life and family for years.
Juniper is returning to the small rural town of Jericho, Iowa, leaving her job temporarily in Denver as Special Collections and College Archives librarian (opened ended leave of absence). She is to help out her friend, Cora, who runs the local Jericho Public library and has stage four breast cancer.
Fifteen years ago, there was a tragic double murder of a sweet couple, Cal and Beth Murphy, and dog, Baxter (poisoned). They were different than most folks in the area, and they owned the hobby farm where they sold organic fruits and vegetables, made handmade goat milk soap and jams, and had beautiful flowers for sale from their garden at their roadside stand.
Who would want to murder them and why? A lovely wholesome young couple, but what was the motive? Was there a witness they missed? Because it was such a small town, the FBI did not put a lot of energy into it. However, it is coming alive once again.
The Murphys were neighbors of Juniper's family. Jonathan, her stepbrother only a year younger than her, was very close to them and helped them out since they had no children.
This town does not bring back fond memories for Juniper (June), who found herself pregnant as a young teen and went off to college. She left her daughter Willa with her mom and stepdad to raise, and her visits are always awkward. They have a strained relationship, and she finds it very difficult to step back into her old life.
To complicate matters, someone is stirring up the decades-old cold-case murder again. All fingers pointed to Jonathan since he found the bodies. But he was the one who called it in, and they had no other evidence, so he was not charged back then, but everyone has always believed it was him.
Now someone has a true-crime podcast and blog called Jericho Unscripted, and they are digging up old secrets and the past. Something else happened that night of the murders that changed the course of Juniper's life.
Flashing back and forth from 14 1/2 years ago to the present, we learn about her mom and stepdad's strained troubled relationship. It seems everyone is hiding something, thinking they are protecting themselves or others.
Guilty or not, her brother bore the stain of accusation and had been treated accordingly for almost fifteen years. People in the area thought he got away with murder. He had to start his own web business because no one in town would hire him.
No one was entirely innocent, and not even Jonathan or maybe June. Is the original killer back? Then there is Ashley, June's nemesis and former best friend (great back story here) who is also holding a grudge and now married to the rich boy Sullivan (June's former love) and the powerful Tate Family Farms that runs the town.
June was someone's alibis. Does she recall what happened? There are also plenty of red herrings and suspects with this powerful Tate family.
Strange things start happening again after she arrives in town —phone calls, drive-bys, harassment, sliced tires, dog poisoning, etc. In addition, Jonathan is acting weird and hanging out with the wrong crowd and seems to be hiding something from her. Her mom is also drinking more and not herself, and is she missing clues?
When her brother winds up in the hospital, Juniper is scared for her life and her brother. Maybe the secrets she had buried in the Iowa soil were now bearing bitter fruit.
The frantic race to find the truth places her family on a dangerous course. Land contamination and other issues put others under suspicion for the double murders, but those families (Tates) were like royalty, and no one would cross them.
When she left at age nineteen, she was edged out of her daughter's life and sent off to college as if nothing had happened. Now there is Sullivan Tate. But she has a job and a life and is strong and independent.
What about the Tate family? Everyone knew the Tates and the Murphys were feuding that summer over the land spillage. However, everyone is still pointing fingers at Jonathan, and she must help prove his innocence. He was the one who called 911 that night so long ago, and Jonathan was devastated when they died.
June is also holding a secret about her daughter's father and others about the night of the murders. Her mom is hiding something, and June senses her mom and brother need protection. She does not even know the identity of her father.
No one is communicating. June, stuck in Jericho, and her decisions have the potential to unravel her world. Can she have love again, and will her daughter want to come and live with her in Denver one day? A second chance? Can she mend her relationship with her brother? Everyone seems to be dealing with their pain and memories in their own way.
Were the murders premeditated, a crime of passion? THE TRUTH IS ALWAYS IN THE DETAILS.
"Guilt, grief, and love are sometimes impossible to untangle, and we all have regrets."
Atmospheric, Riveting, Haunting!
WOW! The author racks up the suspense to the explosive ending. EVERYTHING WE DIDN'T SAY is a perfectly fitting title for this well-written, emotionally-charged gripping thriller with richly drawn characters, lyrical prose, and vivid descriptions. The author is in total control, and fans of true-crime fiction will devour this one.
I found it difficult to put down and read in two sittings. Fans of Heather Gudenkauf, Mary Kubica, Lisa Unger, Wendy Walker, and Lisa Jewell will find a lot to like here! Top Books of 2021.
A special thank you to #AtriaBooks and #NetGalley for an early reading copy. I also pre-ordered the paperback and cannot wait to receive it today.
Blog Review:
#JDCMustReadBooks
@JudithDCollins
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pub Date: 11/2/2021
Publisher: Atria Books
September 17, 2022
I really enjoyed this one. I liked the two timelines and how things unfolded. I had suspicions but still ended up nicely surprised. I thought the characters were great, although Juniper tended to make some dumb mistakes along the way. Sometimes I wanted to shake her. But overall it was a great story and I enjoyed my time reading it.
*Huge thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy to read and review.
*Huge thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy to read and review.
November 13, 2021
So this is the trouble with wanting a "candy" (easy to read, page turning kind of "beach book") novel for bedtime. There are so few of them. I want something easy, but not so stupid that I can't force myself to read it. Sigh.
My biggest complaint with this one is the poor editing throughout. Baart writes alternating chapters between modern day and 14 years ago (the summer of the murders and in which June, the main character, gets pregnant). She tries to make it suspenseful (June knows the answers, but has to rediscover them) by unfolding the story in this way, but she frequently contradicts herself on minor details that drive me crazy. Is June mis-remembering? Am I?
For example, the missing necklace (which is kinda a pivotal point of evidence) is found on Jonathan after his accident. The reader knows it was lost that summer (and can kind of assume it was lost on THE NIGHT) from early on, but then the night of the murder after it falls off June whispers to Jonathan that it is in the barn and he says he'll go get it. Boom, poof, necklace explained. About 30ish pages later, during the final "reveal" June "wondered how Jonathan had gotten a hold of the necklace--once, when everything had settled down, she'd confessed that she'd lost it that night". Huh? What? No, she had told him that night and he went looking for it.
Another really dumb sort of editorial thing that made me CRAZY throughout is her relationship with Cora. June moves back supposedly to help take care of Cora and work at the library because Cora has cancer. While this is an awfully convenient plot devise to get June to town it has two large glaring problems. First, there is only one mention of Cora in the "back then" chapters: June stops in the library one day and sees Cora incidentally and thinks about how long it has been (since June was a little kid) that she had talked to her. They briefly chat and that's it. After THE NIGHT, June moves away. When, exactly does this super close/mother replacement relationship with Cora develop? After June leaves town? Why? How? Cora was just the friendly librarian who June knew as a kid, not a mother-surrogate. Second, in the "now" chapters June does not do anything to ACTUALLY HELP CORA. Cora brings her food, finds her a house, babysits and gives her a job. It seems to me that June is a peripheral person in Cora's life who comes to town after Cora is diagnosed with cancer and starts to burden Cora with extra shit.
So yeah, these are nitpicky and sound kinda mean, but I just really had a hard time finishing this thing. I wanted something stupid and fun not something so stupid that I wanted to throw it across the room.
My biggest complaint with this one is the poor editing throughout. Baart writes alternating chapters between modern day and 14 years ago (the summer of the murders and in which June, the main character, gets pregnant). She tries to make it suspenseful (June knows the answers, but has to rediscover them) by unfolding the story in this way, but she frequently contradicts herself on minor details that drive me crazy. Is June mis-remembering? Am I?
For example, the missing necklace (which is kinda a pivotal point of evidence) is found on Jonathan after his accident. The reader knows it was lost that summer (and can kind of assume it was lost on THE NIGHT) from early on, but then the night of the murder after it falls off June whispers to Jonathan that it is in the barn and he says he'll go get it. Boom, poof, necklace explained. About 30ish pages later, during the final "reveal" June "wondered how Jonathan had gotten a hold of the necklace--once, when everything had settled down, she'd confessed that she'd lost it that night". Huh? What? No, she had told him that night and he went looking for it.
Another really dumb sort of editorial thing that made me CRAZY throughout is her relationship with Cora. June moves back supposedly to help take care of Cora and work at the library because Cora has cancer. While this is an awfully convenient plot devise to get June to town it has two large glaring problems. First, there is only one mention of Cora in the "back then" chapters: June stops in the library one day and sees Cora incidentally and thinks about how long it has been (since June was a little kid) that she had talked to her. They briefly chat and that's it. After THE NIGHT, June moves away. When, exactly does this super close/mother replacement relationship with Cora develop? After June leaves town? Why? How? Cora was just the friendly librarian who June knew as a kid, not a mother-surrogate. Second, in the "now" chapters June does not do anything to ACTUALLY HELP CORA. Cora brings her food, finds her a house, babysits and gives her a job. It seems to me that June is a peripheral person in Cora's life who comes to town after Cora is diagnosed with cancer and starts to burden Cora with extra shit.
So yeah, these are nitpicky and sound kinda mean, but I just really had a hard time finishing this thing. I wanted something stupid and fun not something so stupid that I wanted to throw it across the room.
October 21, 2021
Baart's prose are simply beautiful but, while I love her writing style, it couldn't really save this story from being mediocre. There's a lot going on here and there are a lot of characters, both of which made it hard to follow along. I kept getting confused on who was who and what was what. Thank goodness I read it on my Kindle instead of listening to it on audio or I would have been completely lost.
There's a lot of drama but not much suspense IMO. There's a feud between the Tates and the Murpheys and it felt very Hatfields and McCoys. Plus, it's a slow burn-I mean molasses on a cold day slow-and I kept zoning out. I've had this book for over a month now. It has taken me forever to finish it because my mind goes numb and I have to put it back down again. There were a few subplots that went nowhere and could have been cut out of the story completely and doing so would have probably helped with the pacing.
As far as the positives, the writing is lyrical and stylistic and the ending was incredibly satisfying. Around the 80% mark everything started coming together, and the reveal made the buildup worth it.
If you're into slow burn mysteries/small town mysteries, I recommend giving this one a read. If you want something thrilling and fast paced, give this one a skip.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There's a lot of drama but not much suspense IMO. There's a feud between the Tates and the Murpheys and it felt very Hatfields and McCoys. Plus, it's a slow burn-I mean molasses on a cold day slow-and I kept zoning out. I've had this book for over a month now. It has taken me forever to finish it because my mind goes numb and I have to put it back down again. There were a few subplots that went nowhere and could have been cut out of the story completely and doing so would have probably helped with the pacing.
As far as the positives, the writing is lyrical and stylistic and the ending was incredibly satisfying. Around the 80% mark everything started coming together, and the reveal made the buildup worth it.
If you're into slow burn mysteries/small town mysteries, I recommend giving this one a read. If you want something thrilling and fast paced, give this one a skip.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2022
4 ⭐️
Of course I’d somehow pick up a slow burn thriller when I was trying to get a slow burn break🤡
YOU KNOW WHAT THOUGH?! it was good
It wasn’t as THRILLING as I would’ve liked it to be, but I stayed for the romance. You may be wondering, who reads a thriller for the romance? Me. That’s who
I was so invested. I’m not usually a fan of going back and forth between past/ present, but I feel like it really worked for this.
this book teased me, though. Like, as soon as it was finally going somewhere and I was finally CLOSE to finding out what happened, it was like “HAHHA NOPE” and switches to present/ past.
Honestly, I wanna write a review for this because it was enjoyable. Rtc!<3
Of course I’d somehow pick up a slow burn thriller when I was trying to get a slow burn break🤡
YOU KNOW WHAT THOUGH?! it was good
It wasn’t as THRILLING as I would’ve liked it to be, but I stayed for the romance. You may be wondering, who reads a thriller for the romance? Me. That’s who
I was so invested. I’m not usually a fan of going back and forth between past/ present, but I feel like it really worked for this.
this book teased me, though. Like, as soon as it was finally going somewhere and I was finally CLOSE to finding out what happened, it was like “HAHHA NOPE” and switches to present/ past.
Honestly, I wanna write a review for this because it was enjoyable. Rtc!<3
November 1, 2021
Normally I don’t have the patience for a slow burn type of book but I always make an exception for a Nicole Baart book because it’s SO worth it. Her writing is so rich and descriptive, it’s just gorgeous and she writes in such an evocative way that just mesmerizes me. This is a perfect fall read, you have small town secrets and an highly atmospheric setting, a complicated murder mystery that’s unsolved fifteen years later and amazingly well crafted characters that feel like they could leap off the page and into your life. Clearly I loved this one, my fave from the author yet!
October 31, 2021
Combining high wire tension and poetic storytelling, In Everything We Didn’t Say Baart has created a haunting family drama that casts a glaring light on small-town hierarchies proving that the past has a long, unrelenting reach. Told in dual timelines, this suspenseful, beautifully rendered novel reveals its secrets in small, tantalizing bites leading to an explosive, highly satisfying conclusion. In Everything We Didn’t Say is Baart at her best.
November 9, 2021
Dual timeline was done well, but it was just too slow. I also think there was a missing element between Willa and Juniper. I think the author went too far beyond the central storyline and couldn’t bring it back together by the end.
This book is for you if you like family suspense books that aren’t too twisty.
This book is for you if you like family suspense books that aren’t too twisty.
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