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Someone You Know
SOMEONE KILLED YOUR DAUGHTER. SOMEONE YOU KNOW...
Your daughter isn't answering your calls.
She's not replying to your messages.
You rush to her house.
She's slumped in the basement, dying and alone.
You desperately call for help.
She whispers a single word.
Someone is keeping secrets.
And it must be someone you know...
Your daughter isn't answering your calls.
She's not replying to your messages.
You rush to her house.
She's slumped in the basement, dying and alone.
You desperately call for help.
She whispers a single word.
Someone is keeping secrets.
And it must be someone you know...
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2023
1597 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
August 1, 2023
3.5 / 5
In all honesty the book wasn’t what I thought it would be, but it’s a very down to earth type of book. But if there is one thing to say, I wouldn’t say this book is a ‘gripping tense thriller’ because the plot was quite slow to develop.
The book shows the before and after of the murder of a mother (Natalie) who leaves behind a daughter, Ruby. Dee, her mother find her on the cellar/ basement floor with body at the bottom of the stairs. The book shows how different parties involved are affected and ultimately the reveal of who killed her.
Honestly, the book is good at throwing you off, but I felt it very slow for my liking. The slow drip feed to information isn’t my style, and sometimes the plot did plateau. Overall it’s not a bad read, although this book is a long read.
In all honesty the book wasn’t what I thought it would be, but it’s a very down to earth type of book. But if there is one thing to say, I wouldn’t say this book is a ‘gripping tense thriller’ because the plot was quite slow to develop.
The book shows the before and after of the murder of a mother (Natalie) who leaves behind a daughter, Ruby. Dee, her mother find her on the cellar/ basement floor with body at the bottom of the stairs. The book shows how different parties involved are affected and ultimately the reveal of who killed her.
Honestly, the book is good at throwing you off, but I felt it very slow for my liking. The slow drip feed to information isn’t my style, and sometimes the plot did plateau. Overall it’s not a bad read, although this book is a long read.
July 9, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Headline Books.
Someone You Know is a slow burn, gripping thriller that throws twists and turns at you all the way through. I loved how this book leaves your head spinning, and I just can't stop thinking about the whole thing! I found myself guessing all the way through, too, as to who the killer was, which I absolutely loved. This is a must-read for any thriller lovers like myself - bear with the slow pace at the beginning, and honestly, you won't be disappointed!
Someone You Know is a slow burn, gripping thriller that throws twists and turns at you all the way through. I loved how this book leaves your head spinning, and I just can't stop thinking about the whole thing! I found myself guessing all the way through, too, as to who the killer was, which I absolutely loved. This is a must-read for any thriller lovers like myself - bear with the slow pace at the beginning, and honestly, you won't be disappointed!
July 3, 2023
Someone you know is a gripping tense suspense thriller that I was completely engrossed in from the very start. This is an extremely well written book that right from the beginning you will be completely invested in. I did feel that the first few chapters were a bit slow moving. However on reflection this suits the pace of the story very well. The author is slowly drip feeding us fragments of what is happening and I found myself being suspicious of various characters. There are a couple of red herrings that are thrown in to the mix and these did have me wondering about certain characters. All in all this was a very good read and one which I would recommend . 4⭐️
July 5, 2023
At first I wasn’t sure what to make of this book. I found the beginning quite a slow build, but now I realise just how clever that was. It’s slow pace is down to Erin’s incredible writing, and the ability to give very specific details that you will later come to need. Everything was written with intent and is exactly how this book is supposed to read.
The whole book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with multiple twists and revelations that have you gasping out loud in utter shock, and leave you thinking about them for days after.
The level of detail and story writing put into this book is very impressive. Written using multiple narratives, It made for a very intense thriller, with lots of twists and turns which lead you off on a trail of ‘she did it. Wait, no, maybe he did it? Oh no, it was definitely her’ and so on until the shocking revelation right at the end! That being said, the book wrapped up with a few HEAs which made the tumultuous journey so worth it!
The whole book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with multiple twists and revelations that have you gasping out loud in utter shock, and leave you thinking about them for days after.
The level of detail and story writing put into this book is very impressive. Written using multiple narratives, It made for a very intense thriller, with lots of twists and turns which lead you off on a trail of ‘she did it. Wait, no, maybe he did it? Oh no, it was definitely her’ and so on until the shocking revelation right at the end! That being said, the book wrapped up with a few HEAs which made the tumultuous journey so worth it!
May 6, 2023
I’m really surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. It is quite a slow burn (not usually a fan) and it’s very character driven (I’m a plot driven girl).
I was so invested in all of the characters and I wanted to know what was going to happen to them. I thought that Wilf was just the best loved him so much!
There were quite a few what would you do moments throughout the story as well which I always enjoy. It was just a great mystery that I really enjoyed! Hoping to read more from this author in the future.
A big thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for this review
I was so invested in all of the characters and I wanted to know what was going to happen to them. I thought that Wilf was just the best loved him so much!
There were quite a few what would you do moments throughout the story as well which I always enjoy. It was just a great mystery that I really enjoyed! Hoping to read more from this author in the future.
A big thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for this review
November 19, 2023
All the pieces fit, it dragged on a bit, and the ending felt anti-climactic.
January 11, 2025
This book dragged on too long for me, but I enjoyed the characters.
May 11, 2023
⭐️ 3.5 ⭐️
Review to follow
Review to follow
October 16, 2023
Someone you know is a whodunit with a difference. Natalie, a single mother is found almost dead at the bottom of her basement stairs and sadly dies. Her last words state that she's been pushed. Who would push a young woman and leave her for dead?
This is told through multiple povs which unravel and interesting story. Plenty of red herrings throughout to keep you guessing. I didn't guess the ending but it wrapped up perfectly.
This is told through multiple povs which unravel and interesting story. Plenty of red herrings throughout to keep you guessing. I didn't guess the ending but it wrapped up perfectly.
September 16, 2025
I am actually really annoyed with myself that I’ve left it so long to read this! It was a really good book, not your usual thriller/crime/murder mystery, this book had heartwarming moments, you could feel genuine grief in the writing and as one of the reviews states on the cover, it literally keeps you guessing right until the last page, I’d have never guessed those reveals at all! A new author for me, one I look forward to reading more of!
April 5, 2025
This was soooo bad. Absolutely not a thriller. It was extremely slow and boring and did not need a good portion of the words this author chose to use. Talking just for the sake of talking. Also, the whole thing with Frank's job as a watch repairman basically being CIA level top secret was just so dumb.
February 17, 2024
Really enjoyed this book. Lots of twists as there would be in a suspicious death. Sheds some light on the devastations of jumping to conclusions and life is messy.
June 21, 2024
Loved how the book was written but kept waiting for a big plot twist and it was very anti climatic…
August 10, 2023
Read this book in one setting.
February 10, 2024
An ok read that keeps you guessing right to the very end. A little bit slow in places and not too much of a storyline but still an entertaining read
Thank you to NetGalley and headline for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to NetGalley and headline for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
June 11, 2024
Well I'm quite disappointed in this book. I really thought it would have at least been a 4 star from me but there were quite a few things I didn't like about this book. Firstly there was too much description for my taste. Might be because I'm uneducated or just not familiar with fenlands, but a lot of the descriptions felt too complex for me to picture what was being said. Some sentences felt too strung out to make sense at times. The character Justin is accidentally called Jason on page 199. Silly things like that really annoy me and I wonder how it gets past proof reading.
Something that I found odd and quite annoying was that the author never included the conversations between the police and the interviewees. They just got summarised after the fact.
I didn't mind the chapters on Wilf at the beginning when he was a suspect, despite how obvious it was that it wasn't him. And my heart went out to him after Gabby horribly ruined his reputation. But after he moved to his sister's, I wasn't interested in his story unfortunately.
Now I do like the twist that it turned out to be Justin. I was really believing it was Sarah down to jealously and envious of Natalie's life compared to Sarah's. I also think the twist on why Justin got so angry was really good. Of course it had to be a good reason why Justin, (the person who loved Natalie, to what seemed unconditionally), got so angry enough to push Natalie.
Now the confession of Justin. I was just reading it thinking what a load of bullshit that he would try and get Natalie's own father to take the fall. I've never been in such a desperate situation myself, so maybe it wasn't unrealistic but it felt that way to me as I was reading.
Now things I'm probably being petty about but what happened to Glen? Why did we never find out if he was police or not? How would he have got access to the photos at Wilf's? Maybe he was a friend of that detective Hines? I'd rather things be spelled out for me at the end rather than coming to my own conclusions. Another one, which is probably obvious, but did it turn out the attempted robbery at Franks work was in fact Eric, Natalie's latest love interest. And would Frank have ended up facing repercussions at the revelation if the connection was made?
Last negative I'll say is about Frank throwing his phone away. I mean how idiotic. And again, is it realistic? Would you go so far as not giving yourself an alibi and looking suspicious as hell just to keep a secret hidden that would have probably came to light in the end anyway? Seen as Natalie found out, how long would it have even taken Dee to find out even with Natalie being dead? The scene with Dee at the hairdresser's make it seems nothing goes unnoticed or unsaid around town. Just seemed stupid but I guess for the storyline, they had to make Frank look guilty, although to me, it was obviously not Frank.
I guess with all these negatives, it's a wonder why I've even given it 3 stars. I thought the overall storyline was decent, the twist at the end was good despite the confession being a bit wishy washy for my taste. Probably wouldn't recommend this book but I don't regret reading it.
Something that I found odd and quite annoying was that the author never included the conversations between the police and the interviewees. They just got summarised after the fact.
I didn't mind the chapters on Wilf at the beginning when he was a suspect, despite how obvious it was that it wasn't him. And my heart went out to him after Gabby horribly ruined his reputation. But after he moved to his sister's, I wasn't interested in his story unfortunately.
Now I do like the twist that it turned out to be Justin. I was really believing it was Sarah down to jealously and envious of Natalie's life compared to Sarah's. I also think the twist on why Justin got so angry was really good. Of course it had to be a good reason why Justin, (the person who loved Natalie, to what seemed unconditionally), got so angry enough to push Natalie.
Now the confession of Justin. I was just reading it thinking what a load of bullshit that he would try and get Natalie's own father to take the fall. I've never been in such a desperate situation myself, so maybe it wasn't unrealistic but it felt that way to me as I was reading.
Now things I'm probably being petty about but what happened to Glen? Why did we never find out if he was police or not? How would he have got access to the photos at Wilf's? Maybe he was a friend of that detective Hines? I'd rather things be spelled out for me at the end rather than coming to my own conclusions. Another one, which is probably obvious, but did it turn out the attempted robbery at Franks work was in fact Eric, Natalie's latest love interest. And would Frank have ended up facing repercussions at the revelation if the connection was made?
Last negative I'll say is about Frank throwing his phone away. I mean how idiotic. And again, is it realistic? Would you go so far as not giving yourself an alibi and looking suspicious as hell just to keep a secret hidden that would have probably came to light in the end anyway? Seen as Natalie found out, how long would it have even taken Dee to find out even with Natalie being dead? The scene with Dee at the hairdresser's make it seems nothing goes unnoticed or unsaid around town. Just seemed stupid but I guess for the storyline, they had to make Frank look guilty, although to me, it was obviously not Frank.
I guess with all these negatives, it's a wonder why I've even given it 3 stars. I thought the overall storyline was decent, the twist at the end was good despite the confession being a bit wishy washy for my taste. Probably wouldn't recommend this book but I don't regret reading it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2024
My thoughts: This was my first Erin Kinsley book and I was hooked from the first chapter - this is a murder mystery whereby every character is a plausible suspect each with their own part to play in the demise of Natalie.
Dee, Natalie’s mother, was the ‘detective’ trying to find out who could have pushed her daughter downstairs. Is it the neighbour, the best friend, the ex-husband, the new partner?
Kinsley drip feeds information to the reader without revealing too much, with red herrings, twists and turns throughout the way.
There are multiple POVs and side storylines that assist the main plot and provide that further depth and character building.
A great mystery thriller read for fans of the genre 🤗
Dee, Natalie’s mother, was the ‘detective’ trying to find out who could have pushed her daughter downstairs. Is it the neighbour, the best friend, the ex-husband, the new partner?
Kinsley drip feeds information to the reader without revealing too much, with red herrings, twists and turns throughout the way.
There are multiple POVs and side storylines that assist the main plot and provide that further depth and character building.
A great mystery thriller read for fans of the genre 🤗
February 25, 2024
An enjoyable read, which I will mostly remember for the mindless mob mentality jumping on the 'guilty until proven innocent' discourse that rules the modern world, especially modern journalism. Erin captures how this plague can destroy people so effectively, especially when fueled by the intense darkness the internet can unfortunately fuel vociferously.
October 13, 2023
Someone You Know is an unputdownable, taut and twisty thriller.
It wasn't at all what I was expecting, but it turned out to be far better. I do love a fast-paced thriller like this; it can be read in no time at all and is pure escapism.
When Dee Cutter finds her daughter, Natalie severely injured at the bottom of her cellar steps, she assumes it was a silly accident. But, shortly before Natalie's death, she's able to tell paramedics she was pushed. Who would kill Natalie, and for what possible reason?
As the police investigation gets underway, it's soon apparent that they're looking fairly close to home for Natalie's killer.
The characters are well written and keep the reader guessing. One in particular starts off to be really unlikeable, but her arc had me admiring her by the end of the book.
The tension ramps up early on and stays where it is until the final thirty pages. This is a well written thriller with a brilliant, unexpected ending and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
It wasn't at all what I was expecting, but it turned out to be far better. I do love a fast-paced thriller like this; it can be read in no time at all and is pure escapism.
When Dee Cutter finds her daughter, Natalie severely injured at the bottom of her cellar steps, she assumes it was a silly accident. But, shortly before Natalie's death, she's able to tell paramedics she was pushed. Who would kill Natalie, and for what possible reason?
As the police investigation gets underway, it's soon apparent that they're looking fairly close to home for Natalie's killer.
The characters are well written and keep the reader guessing. One in particular starts off to be really unlikeable, but her arc had me admiring her by the end of the book.
The tension ramps up early on and stays where it is until the final thirty pages. This is a well written thriller with a brilliant, unexpected ending and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
July 16, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
Wow, I just finished this book in one day, I couldn't put it down. A clever, well-written psychological thriller that will keep you guessing!
I loved the plot and the character development. Regarding the plot, one of my favorite characters was the gay man, who after being accused of murdering his neighbor, found the strength to fully live his life.
Regarding character development, I liked that there was a world of grey, for the most part, people were neither good nor bad, but a mix of both, which is more true-to-life.
In short, this is a captivating psychological thriller written by a talented author who paid attention to every part of the novel's development, right down to the title. I am excited to read more written by this writer.
Until next time, remember, things are seldom as they initially seem.
Wow, I just finished this book in one day, I couldn't put it down. A clever, well-written psychological thriller that will keep you guessing!
I loved the plot and the character development. Regarding the plot, one of my favorite characters was the gay man, who after being accused of murdering his neighbor, found the strength to fully live his life.
Regarding character development, I liked that there was a world of grey, for the most part, people were neither good nor bad, but a mix of both, which is more true-to-life.
In short, this is a captivating psychological thriller written by a talented author who paid attention to every part of the novel's development, right down to the title. I am excited to read more written by this writer.
Until next time, remember, things are seldom as they initially seem.
June 2, 2024
the story line was adequate, mostly character based which is not my thing. i hate not finishing books that i’ve started and i wanted to know who killed her but it was tedious. Constant swapping between the journalist side, the neighbours pov and the other characters was tiring. When one section felt like it was finally getting somewhere with the story it would flip to the other. A lot of Wilfs POV was basically pointless past him being accused of the acts. I found it not to be gripping and keeping you on the edge of your seat and more predictable. I think the entire story could’ve been shortened down significantly. Plot twists were not as surprising as i’d hoped, especially the plot twists from the father. i wish the death had a darker outcome. It is an easy read i suppose, but i didn’t get into it enough to fully appreciate the writing style and storyline.
October 16, 2023
This was a gripping read.
The main story is of mum, Natalie Cutter, living in an old house in the countryside with her daughter Ruby. Their next door neighbour Wilf, seems like a very friendly old man who Ruby wants to watch feeding the ducks he owns, and tending to his land, but Natalie won’t allow it as she thinks there is something off. Natalie is separated from Ruby’s dad, Justin, so they co-parent. There’s a rumour that Natalie has a new man in her life.
Natalie’s mum Dee and her dad Frank live not too far away. When one day Dee tries to get hold of Natalie and can’t, she heads to her house and finds Natalie at the bottom of the steps in her cellar. When Dee reaches Natalie, she say’s one word, “Pushed”. Dee thinks perhaps Natalie was pushed down the stairs. Although Natalie gets to the hospital, sadly, she cannot be saved. Dee was alone with Natalie as she couldn’t get hold of Frank, he’s disappeared again.
We soon find out that Dee and Frank’s relationship hasn’t been the best, he has cheated on her numerous times. It seems like Frank was with another woman whilst Dee was trying to call him about Natalie but we don’t find out the truth of where he was until later in the story.
Wilf generally keeps himself to himself but finds himself being questioned by the police in relation to Natalie’s death. It causes him a lot of upset with people claiming he’s a peadophile and he ends up moving away with his sister to get away from the threats. It isn’t helped that local reporter Gabby dug into his background, and published a false story for the local paper, The Herald, this made the abuse ramp up and even though untrue, it’s difficult to unpublish something and this in turn results in the loss of her job. With no DNA found in Natalie’s house, Wilf is cleared but he still stays away.
Frank then finds himself in the frame for his daughter’s murder which he categorically denies, but due to suspicious behaviour on his part, he cannot provide an alibi, there are text messages on his phone, and claims from Ruby that he argued with Natalie, he is right in the frame and struggles to get out of it. With secrets being revealed that he has never told Natalie, this causes a complete end to their relationship.
After losing her job, Gabby agrees to help Dee to find out who killed her daughter and this reveals some more secrets and hidden things, from one of Natalie’s closest friends. It’s a lengthy story to the end, to discover who was responsible but when it arrives, it’s a good one! Very unexpected, good twists towards the end. Very gripping read.
The main story is of mum, Natalie Cutter, living in an old house in the countryside with her daughter Ruby. Their next door neighbour Wilf, seems like a very friendly old man who Ruby wants to watch feeding the ducks he owns, and tending to his land, but Natalie won’t allow it as she thinks there is something off. Natalie is separated from Ruby’s dad, Justin, so they co-parent. There’s a rumour that Natalie has a new man in her life.
Natalie’s mum Dee and her dad Frank live not too far away. When one day Dee tries to get hold of Natalie and can’t, she heads to her house and finds Natalie at the bottom of the steps in her cellar. When Dee reaches Natalie, she say’s one word, “Pushed”. Dee thinks perhaps Natalie was pushed down the stairs. Although Natalie gets to the hospital, sadly, she cannot be saved. Dee was alone with Natalie as she couldn’t get hold of Frank, he’s disappeared again.
We soon find out that Dee and Frank’s relationship hasn’t been the best, he has cheated on her numerous times. It seems like Frank was with another woman whilst Dee was trying to call him about Natalie but we don’t find out the truth of where he was until later in the story.
Wilf generally keeps himself to himself but finds himself being questioned by the police in relation to Natalie’s death. It causes him a lot of upset with people claiming he’s a peadophile and he ends up moving away with his sister to get away from the threats. It isn’t helped that local reporter Gabby dug into his background, and published a false story for the local paper, The Herald, this made the abuse ramp up and even though untrue, it’s difficult to unpublish something and this in turn results in the loss of her job. With no DNA found in Natalie’s house, Wilf is cleared but he still stays away.
Frank then finds himself in the frame for his daughter’s murder which he categorically denies, but due to suspicious behaviour on his part, he cannot provide an alibi, there are text messages on his phone, and claims from Ruby that he argued with Natalie, he is right in the frame and struggles to get out of it. With secrets being revealed that he has never told Natalie, this causes a complete end to their relationship.
After losing her job, Gabby agrees to help Dee to find out who killed her daughter and this reveals some more secrets and hidden things, from one of Natalie’s closest friends. It’s a lengthy story to the end, to discover who was responsible but when it arrives, it’s a good one! Very unexpected, good twists towards the end. Very gripping read.
October 13, 2025
★★★★
Dee Cutter is worried about her daughter Natalie; she hasn’t heard from her in days. Alongside her worry, there is also annoyance, as Natalie isn’t the most reliable. When Dee stops by Natalie’s place, things are not as she expected and when she begins tidying up, she discovers Natalie nearly dead in the basement of her house. With no clear suspect or cause, the police begin their investigation with the family, and Frank, Natalie’s father, becomes their main suspect. Though he has no clear motive yet, all other potential suspects have solid alibis…
Someone You Know is a compelling exploration of the impact a tragedy can have on both a family and a close-knit community. I found it a little challenging to classify it strictly as a psychological thriller. While it contains elements of the genre, I think it fits better as a domestic suspense.
Told from multiple POVs, the story spends considerable time exploring each character and their journey. Natalie is an enigmatic character; while I hoped to understand her more by the end, she remained somewhat elusive. I couldn’t fully grasp what tied her to the small-town life she seemed to despise, why she married Justin, or what motivated her to become a mother.
Beyond the Cutter family, we meet Gabby, a journalist desperate to land a front-page article. Her ambition ends up ruining someone’s life (and her own career) forcing her to seek redemption. Wilf, Natalie’s neighbor, was my favorite character. An innocent bystander, he becomes drawn into the Cutter family drama, and his entire life is turned upside down. His quiet resilience eventually helps him confront long-buried trauma, re-evaluate his life, and rebuild himself. A truly impressive character arc!
Much of the story revolves around family loyalty and morality, questioning what justice really means and how much peace it can ultimately bring to an already fractured family. Perhaps unique to this plot and setting, it was interesting to see a family come together through tragedy.
If you are looking for a fast-paced suspense, this might not be the book for you. However, if you enjoy domestic thrillers set in small towns, with rich character studies, I highly recommend Someone You Know!
Dee Cutter is worried about her daughter Natalie; she hasn’t heard from her in days. Alongside her worry, there is also annoyance, as Natalie isn’t the most reliable. When Dee stops by Natalie’s place, things are not as she expected and when she begins tidying up, she discovers Natalie nearly dead in the basement of her house. With no clear suspect or cause, the police begin their investigation with the family, and Frank, Natalie’s father, becomes their main suspect. Though he has no clear motive yet, all other potential suspects have solid alibis…
Someone You Know is a compelling exploration of the impact a tragedy can have on both a family and a close-knit community. I found it a little challenging to classify it strictly as a psychological thriller. While it contains elements of the genre, I think it fits better as a domestic suspense.
Told from multiple POVs, the story spends considerable time exploring each character and their journey. Natalie is an enigmatic character; while I hoped to understand her more by the end, she remained somewhat elusive. I couldn’t fully grasp what tied her to the small-town life she seemed to despise, why she married Justin, or what motivated her to become a mother.
Beyond the Cutter family, we meet Gabby, a journalist desperate to land a front-page article. Her ambition ends up ruining someone’s life (and her own career) forcing her to seek redemption. Wilf, Natalie’s neighbor, was my favorite character. An innocent bystander, he becomes drawn into the Cutter family drama, and his entire life is turned upside down. His quiet resilience eventually helps him confront long-buried trauma, re-evaluate his life, and rebuild himself. A truly impressive character arc!
Much of the story revolves around family loyalty and morality, questioning what justice really means and how much peace it can ultimately bring to an already fractured family. Perhaps unique to this plot and setting, it was interesting to see a family come together through tragedy.
If you are looking for a fast-paced suspense, this might not be the book for you. However, if you enjoy domestic thrillers set in small towns, with rich character studies, I highly recommend Someone You Know!
November 25, 2024
Natalie has never really settled down, not even with marriage and the birth of a child, Ruby. Natalie is a fightcat, always scrapping about something. But she's also involved in the online sex trade, similar to 0nlyFans. Her husband has a good job that provides amply for them, but Natalie is just not content with anything in her life, let alone her now ex husband, Justin.
There is only one neighbor close by, because there are only 2 houses at the end of that road, and an elderley bachelor, a harmless sort who gardens, takes care of a duck pond, and looks after the local birds, feeding the swans. Little Ruby takes a shine to him, waving out the window to him and letting him teach her to garden.
But, of course, this is the 21st century, and no gentleness goes unpunished. The harmless, older neighbor is branded a pedophile, and reaps hatred and hellish accusations for nothing more than being kind to a lonely little girl - one who, it will turn out, desperately needed such kindness. And so did Wilf, whose sister Margot brings him to her place where he can hide and recover.
But who did it? The current boyfriend? The ex-husband? The grandfather? The grandmother? As evidence of serial infidelity mounts against the grandfather, does that make him guilty of murder, sight unseen? Was it someone who was attracted to Nat's husband?
Lots if twists and turns, and a lesson for all of us (esp. in the digital age): It really is innocent until proven guilty, no matter what Social Media says, and we should all be grateful that it is. Especially in Western Europe, where cops are stretched thin trying to stop people from posting mean comments or tweets and have little extra energy for stopping real crime, the caveat of "innocent until proven guilty" can help people stay out of jail because someone didn't like a post or a comment.
There is only one neighbor close by, because there are only 2 houses at the end of that road, and an elderley bachelor, a harmless sort who gardens, takes care of a duck pond, and looks after the local birds, feeding the swans. Little Ruby takes a shine to him, waving out the window to him and letting him teach her to garden.
But, of course, this is the 21st century, and no gentleness goes unpunished. The harmless, older neighbor is branded a pedophile, and reaps hatred and hellish accusations for nothing more than being kind to a lonely little girl - one who, it will turn out, desperately needed such kindness. And so did Wilf, whose sister Margot brings him to her place where he can hide and recover.
But who did it? The current boyfriend? The ex-husband? The grandfather? The grandmother? As evidence of serial infidelity mounts against the grandfather, does that make him guilty of murder, sight unseen? Was it someone who was attracted to Nat's husband?
Lots if twists and turns, and a lesson for all of us (esp. in the digital age): It really is innocent until proven guilty, no matter what Social Media says, and we should all be grateful that it is. Especially in Western Europe, where cops are stretched thin trying to stop people from posting mean comments or tweets and have little extra energy for stopping real crime, the caveat of "innocent until proven guilty" can help people stay out of jail because someone didn't like a post or a comment.
July 4, 2023
When worried mother Dee goes over to her daughter Natalie's place to find out why she isn't answering her phone, she cannot imagine what she will find. Near to death, Natalie is lying at the bottom of the basement stairs in her home. And Dee is just in time to hear her dying words. Or in this case, just one crucially important word: pushed.
And thus begins, Dee's crusade to find out who is responsible for her daughter's death. Because one thing seems clear to her - Natalie's killer is someone she knows.
But as Dee begins to put Natalie's friends and acquaintances under the microscope, it soon becomes apparent that nobody is above suspicion. And not only do the people in Natalie's life turn out to have unexpected secrets, Natalie herself has a few of her own.
This is a cleverly-plotted book that begins at a slow pace, but ends with a very satisfying resolution. The foreshadowing is subtle, and a fair number of false clues are thrown in for good measure, so that everyone ends up looking suspicious. All in all, well worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
And thus begins, Dee's crusade to find out who is responsible for her daughter's death. Because one thing seems clear to her - Natalie's killer is someone she knows.
But as Dee begins to put Natalie's friends and acquaintances under the microscope, it soon becomes apparent that nobody is above suspicion. And not only do the people in Natalie's life turn out to have unexpected secrets, Natalie herself has a few of her own.
This is a cleverly-plotted book that begins at a slow pace, but ends with a very satisfying resolution. The foreshadowing is subtle, and a fair number of false clues are thrown in for good measure, so that everyone ends up looking suspicious. All in all, well worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
October 10, 2023
I've heard amazing things about this author and their books, but have to admit that this is the first book that I've read - however, I did buy found and missing a while ago - I just need more hours in the day to get through my tbr!!
Anyway, I was so pleased to be given the opportunity to read this one now and was excited to dive right in.
I was expecting a twisty and tense thriller from other comments and the blurb, but actually this was much more of a family drama and as such felt much more character based than plot driven.
This meant that the pace was much slower than I'd anticipated.
I love my twisty thrillers so found it took me a little longer to become invested in this than expected and I found the beginning to be pretty slow going.
This did, however, allow us to really get to grips with the characters and connect with them much more than is often the case with the fast-paced books.
The plot flowed really well, building with the characters which held my interest throughout.
I think I'd have enjoyed this more if I'd been expecting the slower pace - but overall a great read.
Anyway, I was so pleased to be given the opportunity to read this one now and was excited to dive right in.
I was expecting a twisty and tense thriller from other comments and the blurb, but actually this was much more of a family drama and as such felt much more character based than plot driven.
This meant that the pace was much slower than I'd anticipated.
I love my twisty thrillers so found it took me a little longer to become invested in this than expected and I found the beginning to be pretty slow going.
This did, however, allow us to really get to grips with the characters and connect with them much more than is often the case with the fast-paced books.
The plot flowed really well, building with the characters which held my interest throughout.
I think I'd have enjoyed this more if I'd been expecting the slower pace - but overall a great read.
September 27, 2023
As Natalie lies dying at the bottom of the basement stairs her final whispered word to the paramedics is “pushed”
But who would want her dead and why?
In this taught psychological thriller, everyone is a suspect as plot twists start to twist and turn leading you down some very clever rabbit holes and discoveries.
Even though this book is full of twists and turns this is quite a slow burner but it is definitely worth sticking with it for the shocking ending!
It is very character driven, and not all are who or what they seam, let alone some of them not completely likeable!
Like I said it is definitely a slow burner and took me a while to get into the book but once I was in in was completely invested into finding out the whodunnit and why. I thought I had worked it out a few times only to be turned around yet again.
This is my first book by Erin Kinsley but it certainly won’t be my last now.
I love a good emotional psychological thriller and I can see this book being extremely popular, especially in that genre.
But who would want her dead and why?
In this taught psychological thriller, everyone is a suspect as plot twists start to twist and turn leading you down some very clever rabbit holes and discoveries.
Even though this book is full of twists and turns this is quite a slow burner but it is definitely worth sticking with it for the shocking ending!
It is very character driven, and not all are who or what they seam, let alone some of them not completely likeable!
Like I said it is definitely a slow burner and took me a while to get into the book but once I was in in was completely invested into finding out the whodunnit and why. I thought I had worked it out a few times only to be turned around yet again.
This is my first book by Erin Kinsley but it certainly won’t be my last now.
I love a good emotional psychological thriller and I can see this book being extremely popular, especially in that genre.
October 17, 2023
The cover and blurb of this book- just wow. How could you not be completely drawn in and want to read it, after such an enticing and creepy feeling blurb. Could you imagine losing your child and the only clue you know as to who and why is that it is someone you know.
As soon as you start the book, the same feeling continues, with a great feeling of fear and urgency. You are taken through and then end up in a situation where you are hoping beyond all hope to read and find out who the culprit is, especially in such a sad crime. The author keeps you guessing right until the very end. You have clues and little bits of information that you think is pointing to the killer, but then a brilliantly crafted twist is thrown your way!
I loved the who story. The way it was told, the brilliant characters and development of the plot, all wonderful. It is definitely a gripping read and will keep you going until the very last word.
As soon as you start the book, the same feeling continues, with a great feeling of fear and urgency. You are taken through and then end up in a situation where you are hoping beyond all hope to read and find out who the culprit is, especially in such a sad crime. The author keeps you guessing right until the very end. You have clues and little bits of information that you think is pointing to the killer, but then a brilliantly crafted twist is thrown your way!
I loved the who story. The way it was told, the brilliant characters and development of the plot, all wonderful. It is definitely a gripping read and will keep you going until the very last word.
November 12, 2023
7/10
An overall ok book! Not fantastic but def kept me guessing until the end.
I loved how it went straight into the action with Natalie dying right at the beginning. She was a horrible character and as the story went on and we got to know more about her she was an awful awful person. Imagine poor Ruby having a mum like that.
Justin being the killer was a surprise for me and a very welcome one. We will never know if he killed her on purpose because we don't know if the basement door was open or closed when Dee arrived but I feel like whichever way it was, Justin was did it to protect Ruby after finding out that she had been using her daughter online in a disgusting way to make money and even used the term "she's got to earn her keep!"
He was very cheeky though asking Frank to tape the wrap for it 🤣
An overall ok book! Not fantastic but def kept me guessing until the end.
I loved how it went straight into the action with Natalie dying right at the beginning. She was a horrible character and as the story went on and we got to know more about her she was an awful awful person. Imagine poor Ruby having a mum like that.
Justin being the killer was a surprise for me and a very welcome one. We will never know if he killed her on purpose because we don't know if the basement door was open or closed when Dee arrived but I feel like whichever way it was, Justin was did it to protect Ruby after finding out that she had been using her daughter online in a disgusting way to make money and even used the term "she's got to earn her keep!"
He was very cheeky though asking Frank to tape the wrap for it 🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2024
I might round up to 3.5 maybe even 3.75
It was a a good story. I read it in a couple of days. But it was definitely more of a "slow burn" and and sometimes I don't really love those. I definitely would not characterize it as a "gripping thriller" I like those books that you feel you cannot put down.
It definitely kept me entertained. I would also say that I kind of felt the writing was a bit choppy...within the chapters, like sometimes I had to go back a couple sentences because she changed up writing about another character and possibly a totally new scenario.
I don't know if that makes sense. LOL! I would have preferred the chapters to have titles with the names of the character's that we were reading about...but instead some of the chapters were about a couple of characters and that's where it would throw me off a bit.
It was a a good story. I read it in a couple of days. But it was definitely more of a "slow burn" and and sometimes I don't really love those. I definitely would not characterize it as a "gripping thriller" I like those books that you feel you cannot put down.
It definitely kept me entertained. I would also say that I kind of felt the writing was a bit choppy...within the chapters, like sometimes I had to go back a couple sentences because she changed up writing about another character and possibly a totally new scenario.
I don't know if that makes sense. LOL! I would have preferred the chapters to have titles with the names of the character's that we were reading about...but instead some of the chapters were about a couple of characters and that's where it would throw me off a bit.
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