Review of "If You Tell" by Gregg Olsen

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Content - 5/5

If You Tell by Gregg Olsen dives deep, with a narrative that is both haunting and informative. While there are countless books in this genre that shed light on well-known crimes, this book puts you in the driver's seat. Olsen wrote what these kids had to experience, from a close up view. The exploration of the family dynamic, the events that escalated into murder, and the overall detailed approach all create the perfect balance of detail and suspense.

Structure - 5/5

The book is structured in a coherent, linear progression of events, making it easy for the reader to follow the narrative. There are moments where I wished for a more intricate perspective or more details, but this also adds to the suspense of the story - it kept me glued to the pages.

Accuracy - 5/5

When writing and reading true crime, accuracy is essential. Olsen does a great job. It's evident that a tremendous amount of research has gone into the book.

Writing Style - 5/5

The writing is accessible, but eloquent–striking a balance between being descriptive and direct. This makes it a great read for aficionados of true crime literature and newcomers to the genre. Olsen's style is inviting and as mentioned previously, will keep you glued to the pages. The pacing is perfectly balanced, with each chapter flowing seamlessly into the next, making it hard to put the book down.

Overall Rating - 5/5

If You Tell by Gregg Olsen is an incredible true crime read. With its compelling content and balanced writing style, it's a must-read for anyone with even a passing interest in the genre. It will always be my recommendation to those who want a great true crime read. While nothing is perfect, this book easily stands out as one of the best in its category, earning a solid 5 out of 5 stars overall.