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The Pretty Ones

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WHEN EVERYONE IS KEEPING SECRETS, HOW DO YOU KNOW WHO TO TRUST?There are a lot of things Charlie does not want to talk about. Parts of her life that must stay buried forever. So, Charlie moves halfway across the country to escape her past, thinking that by attending a college where no one knows her, she can finally start over.

That is until Charlie meets the captivating Quinn Sullivan in her first semester. Quinn is bold, fun, and flirty. Everything Charlie is not. But more importantly, she appears to be the answer to all of Charlie’s problems.

Until the day Quinn goes missing.

In her search for her friend, Charlie realizes Quinn is not exactly who she says she is, and the unsolved questions of the past begin to resurface.

How can Charlie figure out the truth when everyone has been keeping secrets, including herself? Who can she trust if she can't even trust her own memories?

235 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 10, 2021

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About the author

Jamie Lee Fry

7 books89 followers
Jamie Lee Fry is the award-winning author of The Bloodline Curse, the first book in the Dark Magic Series. Her work spans multiple genres, including psychological thrillers, young adult fantasy, and festive sweet romance.

When she’s not busy plotting her next novel, Jamie enjoys hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, cross-country skiing, traveling, and consuming questionable amounts of coffee.

She currently resides in Bend, Oregon, with her husband, Jeremy, and their two furry companions, Zaria and Dexter.

Connect with Jamie:
Instagram: @author_jamieleefry
Author Website: www.authorjamieleefry.com

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5 stars
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71 (39%)
3 stars
35 (19%)
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12 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Marisha (MarishaReadsALot).
889 reviews46 followers
October 18, 2021
First and foremost thank you to Jamie Lee Fry for sending me a copy of The Pretty Ones! If you’re looking for a super kind and genuine author to support, look no further!

This book is CRAZY!! In the best way possible—a verified unputdownable. Aside from a stellar review from my bestie, I went into this one relatively blind (which is a thing I’m super into lately).

There is a certain mystery that you may think is predictable, but the circumstances surrounding it 100% blew me away. Jamie has quickly cemented herself as an auto buy author for me!

Run, don’t walk, to grab your copy today! 🖤
Profile Image for Carrie Shields.
1,829 reviews201 followers
March 14, 2023
Charlie is a very likable and relatable character, and I bonded with her immediately. In the opening scene, she wakes up in front of Liam's house, her long-time crush, with an empty bottle of vodka next to her. She has no idea how she got there. As a matter of fact, Charlie has been losing chunks of time ever since her Aunt Jenny died.

In a chance encounter on a bus, she meets Quinn, and she's everything Charlie isn't...dynamic, fun, vivacious, and gorgeous. The two soon become inseparable, and I was nervous about the power dynamic in the friendship from the get-go. Quinn is used to getting her way, and she invites herself to stay in Charlie's spare room. Charlie needs the companionship, so what's the harm? Then Quinn ghosts her when she's at her most vulnerable, and things really start to unravel.

This was an excellent portrayal of an unreliable narrator that will have you guessing until the very end. Highly recommened!
Profile Image for Krissy (books_and_biceps9155).
1,445 reviews84 followers
November 4, 2021
First off, thank you to Jaime Lee Fry for sending me a copy of The Pretty Ones! It was so beautifully wrapped too! 😃
 
This is a debut that does not read like one. It’s been a while since a book kept me up late and thinking what the hell is going on and this did just that. The chapters are short which you know I absolutely love and it also has alternating POV, another plus in my opinion! The characterization of Charlie was perfect. You really get a feel for her as a person and Jamie really fleshes her out so you can almost hear her voice. I just had to see what was going on. The mystery behind some of the characters really draws you in.
 
I will say I did figure out the big twist, but I felt it was done so tastefully and with grace that no stars were knocked off-plus the journey getting there was so gripping and fun that I just loved it. I really look forward to more of Jaime’s work as I can tell it is just going to be great!👏🏼
Profile Image for Bethany.
579 reviews7 followers
December 16, 2023
I wanted to read another Jamie book considering how much I loved her book The Bloodline Curse. The pretty ones is much different as it's a thriller instead. It was a bit of a wild ride indeed. I guessed some twists and not the others. I was deffo confused to begin with but I felt that was the idea, the reader is as confused as Charlie is and we work things out alongside her. I liked the short and snappy chapters, you can deffo devour a chunk of this quite quickly.

This is a unique thriller and I recommend if you like this genre!
Profile Image for Sara Kate.
Author 12 books67 followers
August 25, 2023
Woah! I read this book in 3 days!
This psychological thriller has different character points of view, short chapters, and a twist you will not see coming! I loved how the author went from the past to the present, bringing the story and characters together. I thought I knew where the story was going but in the end I was very wrong but pleasantly shocked by the ending.
Highly recommend!!
Profile Image for AJ Martin.
529 reviews14 followers
October 31, 2021
Holy hell, what a debut! This is easily one of the most captivating thrillers I've ever read, and it probably the best one I read in October. I was hooked from the start and only stopped reading it to get a few hours of sleep - which didn't come easily! Also, the chapters are short, which is something I always love in a book!

This concept (don't worry, I won't spoil anything) has a tendency to be exaggerated and harmful, but I really liked the way Jamie handled it. It felt realistic and respectful. Charlie was just overall a very well-written character! The rest of the characters were great as well!

In a way, this book made me sad. It's an emotional read for sure, and I can't wait to read more from the author. This is one of the best psychological thrillers I've ever read. It took me a while to catch onto the path it was going to take, but once I realized, I had to pause for a moment to just think about it all. It truly was fantastic!

Disclaimer: I received a gifted copy of this book via the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mariëtte Whitcomb.
Author 11 books115 followers
May 4, 2022
A fantastic debut novel by Ms. Fry!

The Pretty Ones is a fast-paced read and I loved the unreliable narrator element. Ms. Fry took this to an entirely different level, one I didn't expect until much later on in the book.

I also enjoyed the back and forth time jumps, again impeccably done as it doesn't create any confusion for the reader.

Ms. Fry is an author to watch.
Profile Image for Nancy (The Avid Reader).
3,207 reviews146 followers
September 9, 2025
The Pretty Ones captivated me right from the opening page. Once I began to read, I found it impossible to put down. The tension kept me on the edge of my seat, curious about Charlie and the memories she couldn't grasp.

The Pretty Ones concealed numerous secrets, revealing them gradually. Even the protagonist, Charlie, seemed unaware of many of those hidden truths. It wasn't just Charlie who was keeping things under wraps; it appeared that everyone around her was, too.

Charlie encountered Quinn during a bus journey one day, and they quickly became close friends. Quinn had a dominating personality, always insisting that things should go her way, including Charlie's fashion choices. Whatever Charlie wore was never satisfactory for Quinn. Charlie went along with her demands, fearing that refusing her might cost her friendship.

After the incident from long ago that she can't recall, Charlie craved companionship. She was willing to tolerate a lot just to avoid spending every moment alone.

Quinn decided to move in with Charlie after her former roommate failed to meet her standards. Quinn constantly imposed her preferences on Charlie, taking advantage of her kindness. She never informed Charlie about the plans she made for both of them.

One night, Charlie awoke in the middle of the night to find Quinn absent. She attempted to call her, but there was no response. She kept trying, but Quinn remained silent. Where could Quinn be? What was she up to? Was she intentionally ignoring Charlie? Or was something wrong? What if she were in trouble?

The Pretty Ones is an incredibly engaging novel that kept me engrossed with each turn of the page as I tried to unravel all the twists and turns. The suspense ensured there was never a dull moment, and I couldn't have stopped reading even if I wanted to. I was drawn back in every time life threatened to pull me away.

I wholeheartedly recommend The Pretty Ones to all fans of thrillers! Be sure to pick up a copy of The Pretty Ones today!
Profile Image for Lara Meredith.
Author 1 book16 followers
April 7, 2022
This gripping mystery had me chasing the truth from the first sentence: ‘Something is wrong. Something is definitely wrong.’ I felt like all the answers were right there… just a page away, and I curled up under a blanket and read clean through to the end of this intriguing nail-biter.

I am not a fan of violence, not even in small doses; I tend to skim things when I’m uncomfortable… so I was especially impressed with Jamie Lee Fry’s unique ability to present enough of the graphic details to give the scene perspective while providing a focus on the characters inner struggle and away from the more uncomfortable aspects. Brilliant!!! Just brilliant!

Following several timelines, The Pretty Ones is a masterclass in how to write an engaging mystery. I’m looking forward to seeing how this author tops her debut novel. The Pretty Ones might be a hard act to follow... good luck Jamie Lee Fry!


Profile Image for Jessica Huntley.
Author 24 books595 followers
August 24, 2022
Overview: First of all this cover is just beautiful! Secondly I really enjoyed this psychological thriller. It had a slow build up to start with where I was waiting for something to happen, but as the pieces of the puzzles starting clicking together it turned into a gripping story that kept me turning the pages.

Good points: Charlie was a likeable character. Yes, she had her flaws, but there was so much in her past that she couldn't remember so it would confuse anyone. I did feel sorry for her and was definitely on her side when the whole world seemed to be against her. I did find her a little annoying when it came to Liam. The final twist was decent, however I did guess it early on (yey me! I hardly ever get them right!)

Not so good points: Talking about Liam...urrg, what a weirdo. I won't say any more. Despite the end twist I did find it ended abruptly...I'm not too sure if there's another book after this, but I shall find out!

A great psychological thriller that is perfect for those new to the genre.
Profile Image for Alyce (Alyceloves2read).
554 reviews8 followers
November 9, 2021

Thank you @author_jamieleefry [AD] for this gifted copy of her debut novel, The Pretty Ones in exchange for an honest review. I can't believe this is a debut novel! It was a truly engaging and unique read. I loved the nonlinear timelines and how as the action really picked up the chapters seemed to get shorter. I love short chapters because it keeps me engaged and reading and I tend to read longer when I find shorter chapters in a book I am reading. While it started off as a slow burn type of thriller, it quickly picked up steam and the action did not stop until the last page. The book was dark, and the ending was eerie yet totally satisfying. An excellent debut thriller, I cannot wait to read more from @author_jamieleefry.
Profile Image for Brianna North.
Author 6 books54 followers
June 25, 2024
This was such a great book that I devoured in just a couple sittings! The book started a little slow as I tried to piece together what was happening, but as the book went on, I realized the unreliable narrator was such a great addition and really kept me wondering what would happen next. I was really curious to see where Charlie and Quinn's relationship was headed, as Quinn seemed very demanding and Charlie would do whatever she said to make her happy. Some parts I was able to guess, and others completely took me by surprise which I liked! Overall this was an enjoyable read and I would recommend! :)
Profile Image for Kels (bookishlifeofkels).
178 reviews
November 28, 2021
💭”𝙎𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙚 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙫𝙚𝙨…”

HOLY COW! What a debut! If you’re looking to get out of a reading slump or just looking for that page turner of a thriller, do yourself a favor and pick this book up! I highly recommend going into it blind and I don’t want to give too much away but I will say that it will leave you questioning your own sanity! @author_jamieleefry you blew my mind away with this one!🤯
Profile Image for Nichole Heydenburg.
Author 11 books118 followers
November 21, 2021
I read a lot of thrillers and I definitely recommend The Pretty Ones by Jamie Lee Fry for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers. One of my favorite tropes is the unreliable narrator, so I loved that aspect of the book. I found myself quickly reading it and not wanting to put it down, especially for the last 30% when things become really intense. I can't wait to see what Jamie writes next!
Profile Image for Chloë Blyth.
Author 7 books56 followers
July 6, 2024
This was a really addictive read, I couldn't put it down as I tried to figure out how everything fitted together. Some of it I could guess, but the biggest twists I did not!

Highly recommend this book, plus it is currently FREE on Kindle!! Go go go!!
6 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2022
Definitely recommend! This was a book I couldn't put down. I didnt want it to end.This author is on my list to watch for any future novels that come out. Five stars
1 review1 follower
January 7, 2023
It's been a while since I encountered a book I couldn't put down, this one had me hooked! Looking forward to reading more from Jamie Lee!
Profile Image for Kait.
109 reviews4 followers
July 26, 2023
Read this in two sittings. Wow. What a ride! Looking forward to reading more from Jamie!
103 reviews3 followers
July 7, 2025
Really good plot and superb characters.
Did not guess where this way going.
Can't wait to read more by the same author.
9 reviews
August 20, 2022
OMG loved the ending I didn't see that coming at all. This book needs to be a movie. I fell in love with all the characters. I can't wait for more from this author!
Profile Image for Emily LuGrain.
10 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2022
This book had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Jamie Lee Fry does an excellent job at keeping the reader interested and wanting more. I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who loves to read psychological thrillers. Definitely a must read.
Profile Image for A.J. Campbell.
Author 16 books766 followers
October 10, 2021
A great debut novel. The characterisation of Charlie is spot on. Her character and journey made me want to read on, so I read way past lights-out time. It’s chilling in places, and a twisty read, exactly what you want from a psychological thriller. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
Profile Image for Sharon.
442 reviews60 followers
July 9, 2022
Thank you Jamie Lee for sending me a copy of your book to review.

Charlie has moved back home after finishing college and is settling in at home. She wakes up one morning outside Liam’s house with an empty bottle of Vodka next to her and has no idea how it got there. She wishes her friend Quinn was talking to her so she could talk to her and help her figure out what is happening. She has not spoken to Quinn in 3 months. Quinn just disappeared and ghosted her. She really misses Quinn. Quinn calls her a few days later and suggests they meet up in Portland and get together for coffee and hang out. Charlie can't wait to see and ask her why she ghosted her and where has she been for the last three months.

I really enjoy reading thrillers so I was excited for this to be my first one of the year. It has been sitting on my shelf to be read and I wanted to get through it. The writing was great and the story was a good one with some twists and turns which is what makes thrillers fun. Eventually I was able to figure out about 75 percent of the twists and turns in the story. As I kept reading the book I wanted to finish it so I read it one day on the weekend. I'm glad it wasn't longer or I would have been in trouble.

I liked the pace of the book, the flow of the story and the plot now I have to wait for Jamie’s next book.

https://www.instagram.com/aurorabookr...
Profile Image for Poppy Havoc.
Author 3 books20 followers
February 25, 2023
A great Page-turner

This book is great and keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time. I particularly liked the alternating chapters between the main characters. Loved the main characters. The end was such a bang. I still keep thinking of the last chapter. This book will leave you doubting your own sanity. A must read for psychological thriller addicts.
15 reviews
August 21, 2021
Yes, a page turner.

Once I got into it I was so curious. It was pretty spooky, I read at night but had to wait until the morning light to finish.
Profile Image for Lucy Appadoo.
Author 37 books60 followers
November 12, 2024
This story captivated me with its mystery, range of viewpoints, and a crossover between past and present events.

It’s a story about Charlie, who often wakes up without any memory of what’s happened to her. She appears to lose time and gets panic attacks, causing her parents and aunt to be worried about her.

It starts off with the present when she is sitting in her car with an empty bottle of vodka on the seat. Her friend, Zoey, approaches but she remains tight-lipped about not remembering what had happened. She is too ashamed, given the empty bottle of alcohol in the car.

Charlie makes a new friend, Quinn, who is the opposite of her: confident, stylish, open, and extroverted and tries her hardest to get Charlie out of her shell. But on a couple of occasions, she doesn’t hear from Quinn and worries about her, wondering if it’s something sinister.

Returning to the past, you meet her aunt Jenny, who she loves and misses in present day, but you don’t know yet why she’s lost contact with her mother’s sister.

Charlie continues to lose time, has panic attacks and cannot recall why she blacks out without recall until she investigates the murder of a loved one.

Charlie loses contact with her current friends, Mike and Zoey, as she prefers to be on her own, especially when she doesn’t know what’s going on with her. There also appear to be secrets surrounding Quinn and Jenny.

It’s page-turning to explore what is going on in Charlie’s life, as well as the mystery surrounding her friend Quinn and aunt Jenny.

This is a story about love, friendship, identity issues, domestic violence, stalking, and murder, with a lot of mystery and suspense to keep you turning the pages.

I would have preferred less narrative and more dialogue or action in the beginning parts of the book to move the story forward. Despite that, I thoroughly enjoyed the plotline and characters. Well worth the read.

Profile Image for Eva Edge.
1,519 reviews45 followers
April 20, 2025
The Pretty Ones by Jamie Lee Fry is a busy, unique and messy psychological thriller with a shocking ending!
It starts like a friendship drama, but oh my, it's so far from this! Step by step, chapter by chapter true story comes out loud, and you just breathe deep with everything that is happening. The end comes with an absolutely messed-up twist. Sh!t!
The ending is..., went in the way I didn't expect... talking about a jaw-dropping twist... this one is so messed up!

Charlie is going through hell. Her aunt Jenny is dead, and her best friend Quen disappeared for the summer. When Quinn is back, Charlie thinks she can set everything where it was left, but she is wrong... Quinn as a different scenario.

This is a debut... What a debut! Holy f.king hell, what a debut!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews