The Uninvited

by Nadija Mujagic

Emily Ross thought her life was falling into place after her honeymoon with Jack—until they arrive home to find an uninvited guest at their door. Evelyn Ross, her mother-in-law, has shown up unannounced from Seattle, and her arrival quickly upends Emily’s world.

Yet, something feels off.

Though Jack’s relationship with his mother is clearly strained, Emily can’t piece together what caused the rift. With a dark agenda of her own, Emily wants Evelyn gone—but so does Jack.

What are they both hiding?

As buried secrets come to light and Emily’s grip on reality starts to unravel, she must uncover the truth about Jack and Evelyn before everything falls apart—her marriage, her sanity, and maybe even her life.

For fans of Verity and Don’t Let Her Stay, this psychological thriller will keep you on edge until the final twist.

____________________________________________________________________________

★★★★★ " This book gripped me from the start. " - Jeff Scott, the author of the Mathematician trilogy

Advance reviews :

★★★★★ "This is an excellent domestic thriller, with so many twists! There’s lies, secrets and lots of suspense! It’s a jaw dropping read!" -- Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "The suspense is relentless, and the plot twists are nothing short of genius, kept me on the edge of my seat." - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "I finished this in under 24 hrs. I got pulled in from the very beginning and couldn't stop because I HAD to know what was going to happen." - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "I read this in one sitting. I was so drawn into it I couldn't put it down. The twist was good it was unexpected." - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "If you like books with plot twists, an immersive storyline, and characters that change in front of your eyes, this is the book for you! You won't want to put this one down!" - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "The story will take you through so many twists and turns. Every. Single. Time. I THOUGHT I knew what was going on... BOOM.. thrown through a whole another loop... I did not want to put this book down" - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "The big twist and reveal at the end had my jaw on the floor... Also EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS." - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "There's a lot of suspense in the book, and I was on the edge of my set the whole time. But the twist? The twist was mind-blowing, and I loved every single aspect of this book! I highly recommend it." - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "What a ride!!! I knew I should have started it in the morning!! Kept me up, could not sleep!!" - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "I was on the edge of my seat as I was when I read Verity by Colleen Hoover. I was totally blown away by how it ended. Never saw that coming!" - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "Let me tell you, I did not in any way see the twists coming! Not even close!" - Goodreads reviewer

★★★★★ "Oh my God, what a wild ride!" - Goo

Genres: Thriller, Psychological Thriller, Ebooks, Mystery, Fiction

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 8, 2024

About the author

Nadija has written several psychological thrillers and a memoir series. In her spare time, she enjoys playing sports and electric bass guitar.

Reviews

[joanne docherty · Rating 1 out of 5]

One of the most ridiculous books I've ever read

This book is so bad, I had to keep reading, just because it was so awful.
Nothing makes any sense, every sentence is a contradiction, and even the author can't seem to keep her story straight! For example, Emily struggles to type the password into her laptop. In the very next paragraph, she mentions that her laptop could have been used by someone else, because it doesn't require a password!
I had to award one star in order to leave a review, but honestly, it probably should have been -1*

[Keeley Webb Author · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, I'd just like to say thank you to Nadija for the advanced copy of this book. It's an absolute privilege to be given a free copy with no expectation of a positive review. 

The pacing of the story is perfect. Straight away we're introduced to newlyweds Emily and Jack, who upon arriving home from their honeymoon find his uninvited mother on the doorstep with her luggage! 

It's Emily's first time meeting her MIL Evelyn, and she lives up to all stereotypes of being an obnoxious and unwanted presence from the outset. Nadija weaves suspense throughout the narrative, teasing with secrets that keep you on edge throughout. 

I enjoyed reading from both Emily and Jack's perspective as we tried to work out which secrets were unravelling and whose grip on reality was the loosest. The characters were well-developed, and the revelations wrapped everything up neatly at the end.

This is my first time reading one of Nadija's books, and I really enjoyed her writing style. A solid 5 stars from me. 

[Jaime Tragesser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC for this book.

I finished this in under 24 hrs. I got pulled in from the very beginning and couldn't stop because I HAD to know what was going to happen. When I thought everything was out in the open, even more got thrown my way! A great read and I will definitely be reading more from this author.

[Tara Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't usually like domestic thrillers, but I LOVED this one!

Extremely fast paced and impossible to put down!

Looking forward to reading more from Nadija in the future!

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the most well written thriller but it did keep my interest until the final satisfying ending.

[Kristi · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5 stars. Alright. This book did hold my interest, I’ll give it that. BUT. There were too many inconsistencies and unbelievable pieces. Emily is hospitalized, isn’t awake and yet is diagnosed with amnesia? After a normal CT scan and no communication with anyone? And all the times she appears to be speaking normally then it’s written she’s rageful? Evelyn being pushed down a flight of stairs, bruised, barely breathing, but is absolutely fine?

It was never cleared up as to how Misty and Jenna connected and why Misty wanted Emily and Jack’s marriage to end. I felt like the storyline didn’t build effectively and situations would be jumped info without buildup or thought. This made me go back and re-read portions, thinking I’d missed something. By the end of the book, I was just annoyed. And there were no earth shattering revelations, it was fairly predictable. Other than the parts that made no sense. 🤔🙄

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily and Jack return from their honeymoon to find Jack’s mom waiting for them outside their place. Jack seems thrown off, but appeases her, Emily doesn’t know what to think. I mean this is a nightmare already, right?!

I’m gonna assume you agreed with me on the nightmare part, as this is just the beginning. Within days, Emily is questioning herself, her husband and her marriage. Who wouldn’t?!

Mujagic weaves a tale of horror (okay, horror to me), lies, deceptions, and secrets. Who and what should Emily believe, and will her own secret prove dangerous for everyone?

The twists just keep coming, and the last one is a doozy!!! Hold on to anything but your mother-in-law, as you race through this book!

[Debbie Barbee · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was a very disappointing book

The events in this story were so absurd and unbelievable that it ruined the plot. A woman falls down the stairs and is unconscious for 2 days and somehow her supposed son gets an IV going on her. Then she pops up and starts wrecking havoc again. Then the other woman gets bashed in the head and was unconscious for a while, gets a concussion and looses her memory. The ER just sends her right home, no medical follow up or treatment. Just too many ridiculous situations to try and over look for this book to be good.

[Emma Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This book had me hooked from the first page! This slow burn book has everything a good thriller needs! What starts as a single pov, switches to a dual pov and leaves you questioning everything! I did see a few of the twists coming beforehand, I'm usually disappointed when that is the case but not with this book! So many secrets and twists that kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end! This is definitely a must read for any thriller lover

[Felecia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm extremely grateful to have been given this fabulous opportunity to read this as an ARC! Thank you!

This book speaks on how newlyweds, Emily and Jack, arrive home from their honeymoon to see his Mother, Evelyn, standing outside of their residence. Talk about Univited indeed. The mystery continues on throughout the book as to why Evelyn is still at their home as this was the first time that Emily met her Mother-in-law.

This book definitely had my blood pressure up in trying to sort all that was going on! This is a wonderful read! Definitely something to keep you up reading until you find the answers you seek!

[Carol Gulliford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. Read it in a few days as I wanted to know what would happen to Emily. A few twists throughout but I thought I could see the twist at the end coming but I was wrong. Love a book that surprises me! Fantastic!

[Bri · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

Definitely wasn’t what I was expecting but good book overall.

[Kathleen Lariviere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

Great book. Suspenseful! This book kept me reading to find out "what, how and why". If you like suspense, grab a coffee and begin reading.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily and Jack are newlyweds just getting home from their honeymoon and his Mom is waiting on their doorstep for them when they arrive back home. Does anyone really know each other? What a gripping thriller with a great twist at the end. Nadija Mujagic never disappoints!

[Alyssa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC for this book. It is the epitope of a suspenseful, psychological thriller!! No smut.

The story line is one where you are invested from the first chapter. The writing style flows easily and is under 300 pages making this an easy and satisfying read.

[Sarah * Between the Lines Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read, twisted for sure.
This book definitely kept me intrigued the entire time, trying to figure out the secrets!

[Elisa Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The Uninvited’ captivates you with its masterful blend of suspense and intrigue, keeping readers breathlessly engaged from start to finish. Immediately, the author draws you into a mysterious and emotionally thrilling world, effectively creating relatable and captivating characters.

A standout feature of the story is its pacing. The fast-paced plot keeps you hooked, making you eager to read more. The author brilliantly fuses together tense moments and quiet reflection, deepening our connection to the characters while advancing the plot.

‘The Uninvited’ is recognized by its amazing final twist. Right as you believe you understand everything, the plot takes an abrupt turn, leaving you shocked. The story uses shock effectively, a key element of great storytelling.

To sum up, ‘The Uninvited’ is a great story that blends compelling writing, fast-paced action, and a surprising twist. This book is perfect for those who enjoy thrillers or simply want a captivating read. This book’s drama is pleasing, and I was completely engaged from beginning to end. Highly recommended!

[Mary K Willever · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good thriller!

Very good read a great twist in the end and how things played out. Really wanted too keep reading to find out how it ended.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good psychological thriller. It has a shocking ending. I couldn’t put this book down. The story was original and fast paced. I loved the characters! No one was who they seemed to be. The subtle twists and turns keeps the reader wanting more. I finished this book in record time. It was exciting and before I knew it it was over. I highly recommend this exciting book.

[Rachel Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Uninvited” by Nadija Mujagic is a gripping psychological thriller that hooked me from the very first page. The suspense is relentless, and the plot twists are nothing short of genius, kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put it down and found myself sacrificing sleep just to find out what would happen next. The suspenseful atmosphere and the unpredictable turns kept me guessing until the very end. If you're looking for a page-turner that will keep you up at night, this book is a must-read!

[Billie Wiley]

ARC Review-Available 12/8/2024 on KU! 💜📖

“The Uninvited" by Nadija Mujagic, Author is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling. This slow-burn thriller captivates readers with its carefully crafted atmosphere and intricately woven plot.

The story takes its time to build up, meticulously laying down the foundation and setting the stage for the dramatic twists that come later. And when it does take off, the twists come powerfully, each one more surprising than the last. Nadija expertly handles the pacing, ensuring that the tension never lets up, even as the narrative reaches its climax.

[Kari Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-paced domestic thriller

This book grabbed me from the first chapter and I read it in one evening!

It's about a newlywed couple and an unwanted visit from a mother-in-law. Everyone has a secret that they are hiding that will affect their relationship with the others.

Short chapters and a fast pace make this book a fast and engaging read! Definitely going to seek out more by this author!

[Eva Edge · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Uninvited by Nadija Mujagic is a popcorn-style psychological thriller that was quick and easy to read.
This started so strong! I was gripped straight away, and it was going really strong, but after half, it started to go down the hill, and the last 20% was a bit too far-fetched.
I loved the main idea of this thriller and was intrigued to find out the motives behind it. I loved the emotion that was created when Evelyn made herself at home, loved that Emily was standing her ground instead of just allowing, and the idea behind her motives was intriguing, as I said, I was so interested, but then so many things started to not make any sense, actions didn't made sense, some twists were way too much and felt that are made for sake of to have a twist.

A newly married Jack and Emily, returning home from their honeymoon, are only to be surprised at the door by the husband’s mother Evelyn, who comes in and makes herself at home in 2 minutes! Goes where she wants, takes what she wants and does what she likes... Then things start to go downhill, and Emily starts to question her sanity... But she must stay focused because she has a plan to follow!

I would advise Nadija Mujagic to go through all 1, 2 and 3-star reviews on Goodreads and seriously listen to what they are saying, then fix it and re-release it! This book has good potential if it fixes the letdown parts.

I am definitely interested in trying other books by this author, as I liked the writing style and how easy it was to go through the chapters.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book by Nadija Mujagic I have read. I enjoy her relatable and less flowery writing style because it is easy to read. The premise of the book is stellar - Jack and Emily return from their honeymoon to find his mother waiting on their doorstep. The reader does not know how their relationship was prior to this odd happening but they don’t seem particularly close. He is often getting angry. Some past events are revealed but almost like they are shoved in there or sporadic reference (or too much allusion to it). Later, when it is used for a climax, it misses its mark. The fact that something is weird or « off » seems to be repeated too much until I was literally saying « ok we get it. The situation is off. There are secrets. Get to the point! ». Some of the things that happen seem unrealistic and didn’t sit well. I don’t think there was any big reveal at the end. At some point through the book, Jack starts to add his perspective but it was not consistent when he is a given a voice. I did enjoy the story but feel it could have been better.

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you BookSirens and Nadija Mujagic for approving me to read this ARC.

[Lynda Kelly · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was a free download and I'm sorry but it's just awful......coming off the back of my latest Icelandic thriller any book would struggle to compete but this really isn't good at all. The premise sounded highly intriguing and the reviews were full of the usual superlatives.....so I am really disappointed in it.
I packed it in at 14%. The writing just sounds highly juvenile and like English perhaps isn't the author's first language. Coupled with this, it's full of mistakes as well, just adding to my general annoyance with it.
She writes proceeding not preceding, disproval not disapproval and this phrase isn't right, either, "...somewhere in the depth of mind." Then Emily mentioned something about her house when we'd already been informed she was living in an apartment.
All of a sudden this man she just married is giving her "a vile look" and telling her she shouldn't ask after his mother's health..."just let it go".....and I sighed loudly and packed it in.
It doesn't sound true to life in the least so isn't for me.
I did have another downloaded by the same author so she has some good story ideas, but needs to polish things up more for my liking.

[Susan Belman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fantastic psychological thriller! Love the “Evil Mother-In-Law” trope. Although this one takes a few twists and turns. Emily and Jack return from their honeymoon to discover Jack's mother waiting for them on their doorstep. Emily has never met her new mother-in-law before today (she was unable to attend because of a surgery), and isn't thrilled that she will be staying with them for 3/4 days. The tension between “The Uninvited” guest and newlyweds escalates and strange things start happening to Emily. As the story unfolds, we discover that nothing is as it seems and everyone has secrets they have been keeping. Who can she trust? What is the truth?

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book with strong characters in Emily and Jack. The author does a great job developing the story and painting her scenes perfectly. She pulled me in and kept me turning the pages with the secrets and twists along the way. She moves the story fluidly and delivers a terrific psychological thriller. Loved and recommend this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.

[Susan & John Franks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gripping Read !!

A slow burner but , once sucked in I couldn't put the book down ....... I am a compulsive reader of many genres but it is a long time since I read something that I became completely immersed in like this one.

Recommend it ?....... I should say so !!! ....... Try it for yourself , you will not be disappointed I can assure you !!!

As for me , I'm off to research the back catalogue of Nadija Mujagic and find myself another gem 💎

[Elaine Rainbolt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It kept you drawn into the story. A marriage full of secrets until they are exposed. I read this in one sitting. I was so drawn into it I couldn't put it down. The twist was good as it was unexpected.

[Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first ARC and I have to say, it did not disappoint! I am the type of person who has to figure a book out before the end. I tell you, this book had be guessing the entire read. Truly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Nadija Mujagic!