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You Must Be New Here: A Novel
A friendship is put to the test when a young woman disappears from a quiet community in a dark and twisty novel of suspense by the bestselling author of Open House and The Vacation Rental.
Sloane Thompson has a daughter named Daisy, attends school activities with other parents, and even has an amicable relationship with her ex-husband. But after ten years in bucolic Sycamore Glen, Sloane has yet to find someone to call a true friend. Until Harper and Ben Wilson move in next door.
Harper is open, charismatic, and restless. She and Sloane quickly become confidantes and fall into a deep and intoxicating friendship. Then one afternoon, Daisy’s dependable babysitter, Margaret, fails to show. When texts from Margaret’s mother and boyfriend go unanswered, the inexplicable disappearance becomes a cause for alarm.
As anxious hours turn into days, suspicion grows. And tension tightens. As if something is about to snap. When it does, long-held secrets are revealed, and not everyone in Sycamore Glen is who they seem to be.
Sloane Thompson has a daughter named Daisy, attends school activities with other parents, and even has an amicable relationship with her ex-husband. But after ten years in bucolic Sycamore Glen, Sloane has yet to find someone to call a true friend. Until Harper and Ben Wilson move in next door.
Harper is open, charismatic, and restless. She and Sloane quickly become confidantes and fall into a deep and intoxicating friendship. Then one afternoon, Daisy’s dependable babysitter, Margaret, fails to show. When texts from Margaret’s mother and boyfriend go unanswered, the inexplicable disappearance becomes a cause for alarm.
As anxious hours turn into days, suspicion grows. And tension tightens. As if something is about to snap. When it does, long-held secrets are revealed, and not everyone in Sycamore Glen is who they seem to be.
315 pages, Hardcover
First published July 8, 2025
4743 people are currently reading
11486 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 651 reviews
July 6, 2025
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The Book Review Crew Blog
I read Open House a few years ago by this author and didn't enjoy it, but I wanted to give her another chance. This one fell flat for me as well. It's about a mother named Sloan who becomes friends with a new neighbour named Harper. One day, Sloan's babysitter, Margaret, doesn't show up, and a search ensues, which causes everyone to become more suspicious of each other.
The lack of character development and individuality made it hard to follow. The pacing was so slow until about the halfway mark, and by then, I didn't care what happened. There are way too many characters to keep track of, and the storyline itself wasn't very engaging. The plot is a typical one, and I figured out the "who" before the big reveal. Once you've figured out the twist, a book becomes pretty boring, and I kept waiting for the main character to catch up. It certainly wasn't the "dark and twisty novel of suspense" (as stated in the blurb) it was made out to be.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The Book Review Crew Blog
I read Open House a few years ago by this author and didn't enjoy it, but I wanted to give her another chance. This one fell flat for me as well. It's about a mother named Sloan who becomes friends with a new neighbour named Harper. One day, Sloan's babysitter, Margaret, doesn't show up, and a search ensues, which causes everyone to become more suspicious of each other.
The lack of character development and individuality made it hard to follow. The pacing was so slow until about the halfway mark, and by then, I didn't care what happened. There are way too many characters to keep track of, and the storyline itself wasn't very engaging. The plot is a typical one, and I figured out the "who" before the big reveal. Once you've figured out the twist, a book becomes pretty boring, and I kept waiting for the main character to catch up. It certainly wasn't the "dark and twisty novel of suspense" (as stated in the blurb) it was made out to be.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
July 31, 2025
Even if you are new here, it doesn't take long to know the characters you should stay away from and can never trust. In an idyllic neighborhood setting, there is still deception and wolves in sheep clothing manipulating the innocent at heart. Sloane is divorced and a single mom to Daisy, who has a heart condition making her very fragile. A dependable babysitter is just what she needs and they trust Margaret to be that. She is a typical teen with a boyfriend. She leaves her boyfriend's house one night never to be seen again.
The whole town is shocked, but comes together to search for her. Tensions build and secrets are displayed as weapons against one another. What we thought were picture perfect families, crumbles their facade. With very few motives, you quickly eliminate some community members. Suspicions grow in several directions, easily pointing fingers at a select few.
There are several POVs with different narrators building the characters in dual timelines. Present day is the search for Margaret and the other is the week leading up to Margaret's disappearance.
Harper and Ben are the new neighbors on the street. Sloane quickly befriends Harper due to her magnetic personality. The women's support team is relatable until manipulation becomes obvious.
Then there is Clara following her philandering husband, Evan. A very powerful man using his position to manipulate. There are many characters and I had a hard time with that, but I enjoyed the suspense. The sexual violence is the toughest subject and never gets easy to read, especially the denial among people that are capable of helping and speaking out for the victims.
Kudos to the audio narrators: Erin Mallon, Vanessa Johanson, Caitlin Kelly and Dominque Franceschi. Most people that have enjoyed listened to the audio due to the characters being displayed easier with different voices.
The whole town is shocked, but comes together to search for her. Tensions build and secrets are displayed as weapons against one another. What we thought were picture perfect families, crumbles their facade. With very few motives, you quickly eliminate some community members. Suspicions grow in several directions, easily pointing fingers at a select few.
There are several POVs with different narrators building the characters in dual timelines. Present day is the search for Margaret and the other is the week leading up to Margaret's disappearance.
Harper and Ben are the new neighbors on the street. Sloane quickly befriends Harper due to her magnetic personality. The women's support team is relatable until manipulation becomes obvious.
Then there is Clara following her philandering husband, Evan. A very powerful man using his position to manipulate. There are many characters and I had a hard time with that, but I enjoyed the suspense. The sexual violence is the toughest subject and never gets easy to read, especially the denial among people that are capable of helping and speaking out for the victims.
Kudos to the audio narrators: Erin Mallon, Vanessa Johanson, Caitlin Kelly and Dominque Franceschi. Most people that have enjoyed listened to the audio due to the characters being displayed easier with different voices.
December 28, 2025
3.5 stars
Not a bad read! The biggest strength of this story is that so many characters had solid motives to hurt the victim—I kept changing my mind about who the culprit might be, which made it fun to read. That said, a few plot points felt unnecessary, and the plot could’ve been tighter. It’s a solid popcorn thriller, but it took a bit too long to get going, and the pacing dragged in spots.
Overall, this was an entertaining, easy-to-read thriller with a compelling mystery, even if it could’ve used some trimming and a faster start!
Not a bad read! The biggest strength of this story is that so many characters had solid motives to hurt the victim—I kept changing my mind about who the culprit might be, which made it fun to read. That said, a few plot points felt unnecessary, and the plot could’ve been tighter. It’s a solid popcorn thriller, but it took a bit too long to get going, and the pacing dragged in spots.
Overall, this was an entertaining, easy-to-read thriller with a compelling mystery, even if it could’ve used some trimming and a faster start!
July 7, 2025
Happy publication day 🎉🥳🎧
You Must Be New Here is a fairly quick and simple read. The story is set in Sycamore Glen which sounds typical of a small town with big aspirations. The story opens with Sloane and her daughter Daisy excited to see new neighbours moving in, for Sloane there’s the hope of finding a new friend, Daisy’s heart condition means that while she’s tried to put herself out there, being a part of the pta activities, her life is mainly centred around her daughter and the connections she has are fairly surface level, just as she hoped Sloane strikes up a firm friendship with Harper, but after Daisy’s teen babysitter Margaret goes missing hard truths and secrets of the past come tumbling out.
The story is delivered from multiple pov but at times it was hard to distinguish main characters from side characters especially when so much history comes pouring out. It was fairly obvious throughout that the ending was going to wrap up as it did, and while several twists were thrown in they weren’t enough to sway the readers belief.
There was a full cast of narrators for this title, but unfortunately while some were really great others were either a bit afternoon soap opera or verging toward the robotic. I still enjoyed the majority of the book, just not as much as i had hoped.
2.5 🌟
My thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
You Must Be New Here is a fairly quick and simple read. The story is set in Sycamore Glen which sounds typical of a small town with big aspirations. The story opens with Sloane and her daughter Daisy excited to see new neighbours moving in, for Sloane there’s the hope of finding a new friend, Daisy’s heart condition means that while she’s tried to put herself out there, being a part of the pta activities, her life is mainly centred around her daughter and the connections she has are fairly surface level, just as she hoped Sloane strikes up a firm friendship with Harper, but after Daisy’s teen babysitter Margaret goes missing hard truths and secrets of the past come tumbling out.
The story is delivered from multiple pov but at times it was hard to distinguish main characters from side characters especially when so much history comes pouring out. It was fairly obvious throughout that the ending was going to wrap up as it did, and while several twists were thrown in they weren’t enough to sway the readers belief.
There was a full cast of narrators for this title, but unfortunately while some were really great others were either a bit afternoon soap opera or verging toward the robotic. I still enjoyed the majority of the book, just not as much as i had hoped.
2.5 🌟
My thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
October 27, 2025
~3.5~
This book hasn't gotten a lot of love, and I'm not sure why. I enjoyed it thoroughly. The beginning was a little slow, but once the plot picked up, it really picked up.
Even though the story centers around the murder of 18-year-old Margaret, this is more than a mystery. It's an exploration of female friendship, infidelity, and monsters hiding in plain sight.
I had a suspect in mind, but the relentless pacing had me second-guessing myself until the very end. This was partly because the red herrings were multi-layered, and Margaret's final actions not entirely believable. She seemed too smart to do something so impulsive and reckless.
The unexpected epilogue was perhaps too pat but satisfying nevertheless. Is there anything sweeter than justice served?
This book hasn't gotten a lot of love, and I'm not sure why. I enjoyed it thoroughly. The beginning was a little slow, but once the plot picked up, it really picked up.
Even though the story centers around the murder of 18-year-old Margaret, this is more than a mystery. It's an exploration of female friendship, infidelity, and monsters hiding in plain sight.
I had a suspect in mind, but the relentless pacing had me second-guessing myself until the very end. This was partly because the red herrings were multi-layered, and Margaret's final actions not entirely believable. She seemed too smart to do something so impulsive and reckless.
The unexpected epilogue was perhaps too pat but satisfying nevertheless. Is there anything sweeter than justice served?
August 12, 2025
3.5/5 ⭐️
July 20, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Little A for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Does anyone ever really know the people who live next door?
The cast:
Sloane Thompson and her young daughter, Daisy. Her ex-husband, Dave, visits the house every day, but there are hints that something significant ended their relationship.
Harper and Ben- the new neighbours who seem to be a little too eager to immerse themselves in everyone's lives.
Margaret- Daisy's babysitter, an A+ student, well-liked by many, but nothing is good enough for her high-achieving parents. Margaret hopes to ease their worries with her acceptance into Princeton, but she never returns home.
Clara- PTA mother with three teenage children- Cole( Margaret's boyfriend) and twin daughters. She and her husband, Evan, have a strained marriage. Cole's recent behaviour has worried Clara, and she wonders if she can keep her family together.
As the investigation into Margaret's disappearance heats up, it soon becomes clear that a lot well kept secrets in the neighbourhood are about to explode.
* Sigh* A good popcorn thriller, but it didn't get good until halfway through the narrative. I think what made it great was that EVERYONE seemed to have a good motive to hurt Margaret, even if I couldn't figure out the why.
That being said, some plot points were weird to me. I don't want to spoil anything, but as I write this review, they hover too much in my brain to go higher than a 2-star rating.
Publication Date 08/07/25
Goodreads review 14/07/25
#YouMustBeNewHere #NetGalley
Does anyone ever really know the people who live next door?
The cast:
Sloane Thompson and her young daughter, Daisy. Her ex-husband, Dave, visits the house every day, but there are hints that something significant ended their relationship.
Harper and Ben- the new neighbours who seem to be a little too eager to immerse themselves in everyone's lives.
Margaret- Daisy's babysitter, an A+ student, well-liked by many, but nothing is good enough for her high-achieving parents. Margaret hopes to ease their worries with her acceptance into Princeton, but she never returns home.
Clara- PTA mother with three teenage children- Cole( Margaret's boyfriend) and twin daughters. She and her husband, Evan, have a strained marriage. Cole's recent behaviour has worried Clara, and she wonders if she can keep her family together.
As the investigation into Margaret's disappearance heats up, it soon becomes clear that a lot well kept secrets in the neighbourhood are about to explode.
* Sigh* A good popcorn thriller, but it didn't get good until halfway through the narrative. I think what made it great was that EVERYONE seemed to have a good motive to hurt Margaret, even if I couldn't figure out the why.
That being said, some plot points were weird to me. I don't want to spoil anything, but as I write this review, they hover too much in my brain to go higher than a 2-star rating.
Publication Date 08/07/25
Goodreads review 14/07/25
#YouMustBeNewHere #NetGalley
September 1, 2025
Slow in the beginning, slow at the end. In the beginning, the author introduced several main characters with sections written from their various points of view. Question: Why do authors insist on telling stories from multiple characters' points of view rather than using omniscient point of view? It's so much cleaner and in my opinion it's easier to round out the characters' personalities using omniscient POV. It seems it's just out of fashion these days.
If not for the extremely long epilogue, I would probably have rated this book 3.5 stars and raised it to 4. It was satisfying , but after the buildup of suspense at the end, reading the epilogue felt like trudging through thick mud. I doubt I will be reading any more of this author's works. Even skimming the extremely long Acknowledgements section after the epilogue was a chore, but at least she finally identifies the ailment suffered by Daisy, the young daughter of one of the main characters. With my medical background, things like that interest me and I find it annoying when authors try to be coy about it for no discernible reason.
If not for the extremely long epilogue, I would probably have rated this book 3.5 stars and raised it to 4. It was satisfying , but after the buildup of suspense at the end, reading the epilogue felt like trudging through thick mud. I doubt I will be reading any more of this author's works. Even skimming the extremely long Acknowledgements section after the epilogue was a chore, but at least she finally identifies the ailment suffered by Daisy, the young daughter of one of the main characters. With my medical background, things like that interest me and I find it annoying when authors try to be coy about it for no discernible reason.
July 2, 2025
YOU MUST BE NEW HERE is an exciting fast-paced novel with several questionable characters. There are several surprises throughout the book which made it hard to put down. Overall, this had everything I look for in a thriller. Highly recommend! The audiobook was exceptional with a full cast of narrators. I just loved it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for my #gifted ALC.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for my #gifted ALC.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
July 26, 2025
Man oh man this one was good but my goodness some of the things that happened made me ding a couple points off the rating. Would definitely read more from this author.
September 15, 2025
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I gave 4 Stars to Katie Sise’s new thriller, “You Must Be New Here.”
SUMMARY
Sloan is raising her very sweet but medically fragile young daughter, Daisy, in bucolic Sycamore Glen, with the help of her amicable ex husband. Due to Daisy’s health, there is only one babysitter they trust, high school senior, Margaret. Margaret is an A+ student who just received a “yes” from Princeton. Hopefully, this will please Margaret’s difficult parents…
As the story opens, Daisy and Sloan are meeting their new neighbors Ben and Harper. Sloan and Harper immediately bond and are racing down the road to becoming BFF’s!! But, is something off about Ben and Harper?? Harper seems to have inserted herself into Sloans life pretty quickly. Sloans ex is wondering how the two women get so close so quickly and if Sloan is just not seeing Harper and Ben clearly.
Also, with a leading role in the story is annoying eternal PTA president type, Clara. This crazy lady still runs the elementary school carnival and spelling bee even though kids are all in high school. Oh Clara, please get a life. Maybe spend more time with your handsome husband? Or is that relationship not as it seems??
One night, after Margaret finishes babysitting Daisy, she tells Sloan she is heading to her boyfriend’s house (incidentally, he’s Clara’s son). But, she never shows up there, nor does she come home!
Everyone is questioned by the police. So many suspects! Several people may NOT be who they seem! So very many secrets! What happened to Margaret? Did she leave on her own or did someone harm her? If so, who would have done such a thing?
WHAT I LOVED 🥰
I adore the Sycamore Glen setting! A small town in upstate New York that seems pretty idyllic. The descriptions or the houses and surrounding area sounds like a perfect place to escape NYC craziness and raise a family.
I liked the plot, it kept me reading nonstop. There was a lot of well done foreshadowing and I kept expecting something to happen with every page. There were a couple very good twists. Once the plot began to unfold, I was pretty sure I knew what happened, but the question was, would the police come to the same conclusion that I did.
I did the immersion reading with the kindle version along with the audible. I thought the audible was very well done. It was written from multiple perspectives with jumps in the timelines. Sometimes that can be confusing with the audible, but this was not at all.
WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE 💔
There was not a lot to not love, but there were a few times when something seemed super obvious to me but none of the characters picked up on it. Also, I thought the multiple epilogues was an odd way to end the story instead of just adding a couple more chapters, but it worked just fine.
OVERALL
I enjoyed the story, obviously a young girl going missing is not a happy story, but it was good and the ending was extremely satisfying to me!
I gave 4 Stars to Katie Sise’s new thriller, “You Must Be New Here.”
SUMMARY
Sloan is raising her very sweet but medically fragile young daughter, Daisy, in bucolic Sycamore Glen, with the help of her amicable ex husband. Due to Daisy’s health, there is only one babysitter they trust, high school senior, Margaret. Margaret is an A+ student who just received a “yes” from Princeton. Hopefully, this will please Margaret’s difficult parents…
As the story opens, Daisy and Sloan are meeting their new neighbors Ben and Harper. Sloan and Harper immediately bond and are racing down the road to becoming BFF’s!! But, is something off about Ben and Harper?? Harper seems to have inserted herself into Sloans life pretty quickly. Sloans ex is wondering how the two women get so close so quickly and if Sloan is just not seeing Harper and Ben clearly.
Also, with a leading role in the story is annoying eternal PTA president type, Clara. This crazy lady still runs the elementary school carnival and spelling bee even though kids are all in high school. Oh Clara, please get a life. Maybe spend more time with your handsome husband? Or is that relationship not as it seems??
One night, after Margaret finishes babysitting Daisy, she tells Sloan she is heading to her boyfriend’s house (incidentally, he’s Clara’s son). But, she never shows up there, nor does she come home!
Everyone is questioned by the police. So many suspects! Several people may NOT be who they seem! So very many secrets! What happened to Margaret? Did she leave on her own or did someone harm her? If so, who would have done such a thing?
WHAT I LOVED 🥰
I adore the Sycamore Glen setting! A small town in upstate New York that seems pretty idyllic. The descriptions or the houses and surrounding area sounds like a perfect place to escape NYC craziness and raise a family.
I liked the plot, it kept me reading nonstop. There was a lot of well done foreshadowing and I kept expecting something to happen with every page. There were a couple very good twists. Once the plot began to unfold, I was pretty sure I knew what happened, but the question was, would the police come to the same conclusion that I did.
I did the immersion reading with the kindle version along with the audible. I thought the audible was very well done. It was written from multiple perspectives with jumps in the timelines. Sometimes that can be confusing with the audible, but this was not at all.
WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE 💔
There was not a lot to not love, but there were a few times when something seemed super obvious to me but none of the characters picked up on it. Also, I thought the multiple epilogues was an odd way to end the story instead of just adding a couple more chapters, but it worked just fine.
OVERALL
I enjoyed the story, obviously a young girl going missing is not a happy story, but it was good and the ending was extremely satisfying to me!
October 2, 2025
Wow
I knew who did it but, even still the end had me I couldn't put the book down. Can't be the spoiler here. You have to read this.
I knew who did it but, even still the end had me I couldn't put the book down. Can't be the spoiler here. You have to read this.
June 5, 2025
This book was exactly what I was wanting in a summer suspense! The strong characters, exciting plot, and “who did it” aspect made it so I couldn’t put this book down. The story takes place in Sycamore Glen, an affluent mountainside community where the families are all connected through school, the golf club, or other social circles. The neighborhood is shook when a high school senior has gone missing and the secrets, suspicion, and friendships are all examined. Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with this ARC. I absolutely loved it!
July 24, 2025
Lukewarm
This was an okay read for me. It felt kind of silly until Sloane’s babysitter went missing. Several of the characters seemed
like they could be responsible. The chase to find out what happened was interesting. It just seemed like all of the women were so dimwitted and whiny. They made the story hard to take seriously.
This was an okay read for me. It felt kind of silly until Sloane’s babysitter went missing. Several of the characters seemed
like they could be responsible. The chase to find out what happened was interesting. It just seemed like all of the women were so dimwitted and whiny. They made the story hard to take seriously.
December 29, 2025
1⭐️ BRUH.
words cannot adequately express how horrible this book was. I blame myself for letting another kindle unlimited book trick me. What in the HELL did I just read?! WHY does it have over 4 stars on Goodreads ?! Get real
A new neighbor moves next door to Sloane and her daughter daisy. Daisy has a medical condition that bears NO importance whatsoever to the story but for some reason it’s all we hear about. PTA moms host a spelling bee. A murder happens when we are 60% and oh it’s daisys babysitter. PTA moms all confess one of the husbands raped them all. Oh ok. Remember the neighbors in the beginning of the book? You know, the ones the title of this book was about? Their presence is totally useless and their characters do nothing.
Every character is the worst most boring person you’ll ever meet. living in this town with all these lame people would be my 13th reason.
Do not read this pile of garbage whatever you do.
words cannot adequately express how horrible this book was. I blame myself for letting another kindle unlimited book trick me. What in the HELL did I just read?! WHY does it have over 4 stars on Goodreads ?! Get real
A new neighbor moves next door to Sloane and her daughter daisy. Daisy has a medical condition that bears NO importance whatsoever to the story but for some reason it’s all we hear about. PTA moms host a spelling bee. A murder happens when we are 60% and oh it’s daisys babysitter. PTA moms all confess one of the husbands raped them all. Oh ok. Remember the neighbors in the beginning of the book? You know, the ones the title of this book was about? Their presence is totally useless and their characters do nothing.
Every character is the worst most boring person you’ll ever meet. living in this town with all these lame people would be my 13th reason.
Do not read this pile of garbage whatever you do.
November 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ A quick thriller read that is fast paced, no fluff here! I had a hunch about what was coming but still couldn’t put it down. Wish I had read this one sooner and will definitely be reading more from this author.
August 22, 2025
This book was interesting, not so much for the main plot, but in how we get there. There’s an interesting cast of characters. It’s told in multiple POV, and I can almost hear the various voices as the snooty one asks for volunteers or the mom who adores her sickly child. There are a few twists that make this book that much sweeter. I enjoyed how it came together!
August 25, 2025
Kept my interest, plot twists throughout, but the ending was pretty clear
October 15, 2025
If it weren't for that epilogue I was gonna have words for you, Katie 😭😂
July 8, 2025
Katie Sise has crafted a haunting exploration of female friendship, buried secrets, and the dark undercurrents that flow beneath picture-perfect suburban communities in You Must Be New Here. This psychological thriller weaves together multiple perspectives and timelines to create a tapestry of deception that will leave readers questioning everything they thought they knew about trust, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets.
The Art of Deceptive Simplicity
At first glance, Sycamore Glen appears to be the quintessential American suburb—manicured lawns, excellent schools, and families living their best lives. Sise masterfully uses this idyllic setting as a backdrop for something far more sinister. The author's ability to transform the mundane—school fundraisers, spelling bees, neighborhood coffee dates—into scenes crackling with tension showcases her sophisticated understanding of how evil often hides in plain sight.
The novel follows Sloane Thompson, a divorced mother caring for her daughter Daisy, who suffers from primary pulmonary hypertension. When mysterious new neighbors Ben and Harper Wilson move next door, Sloane finds herself drawn into a friendship that promises to fill the emotional void she's carried for years. However, when teenage babysitter Margaret Collins disappears after spending an evening at Sloane's house, the carefully constructed facades begin to crumble.
Character Development That Cuts Deep
Sise's greatest strength lies in her character development, particularly her portrayal of complex female relationships. Sloane emerges as a deeply relatable protagonist—a woman carrying trauma she's never fully processed, desperately seeking genuine connection while protecting her vulnerable daughter. Her friendship with Harper feels authentic in its intensity and intimacy, making the eventual revelations all the more devastating.
Harper Wilson proves to be one of the most compelling characters in recent thriller fiction. Initially presented as the charismatic, artistic newcomer who brings excitement to Sloane's mundane existence, Harper gradually reveals layers of complexity that challenge readers' perceptions. Sise skillfully balances Harper's magnetic personality with disturbing hints about her past, creating a character who is simultaneously sympathetic and unsettling.
The supporting cast, particularly Clara Gartner and Margaret Collins, adds crucial depth to the narrative. Clara's storyline—a woman discovering her husband's true nature—provides a powerful subplot about betrayal and resilience. Margaret, despite being absent for much of the novel, emerges as a fully realized character through flashbacks that reveal her intelligence, vulnerability, and tragic entanglement in adult secrets.
Structural Brilliance and Narrative Technique
The novel's structure deserves particular praise. Sise employs a dual-timeline approach, alternating between the present-day investigation and the week leading up to Margaret's disappearance. This technique builds suspense while gradually revealing crucial information about character motivations and relationships. The author's decision to include Margaret's perspective in the flashback chapters adds emotional weight and ensures that the victim remains a person rather than merely a plot device.
The pacing is meticulously controlled, with Sise understanding exactly when to reveal information and when to withhold it. Each chapter ends with subtle hooks that compel readers forward, while the overall narrative arc maintains momentum without sacrificing character development or thematic depth.
Themes That Resonate
You Must Be New Here tackles several weighty themes with nuance and sensitivity:
The masks we wear in suburban communities: Sise explores how social expectations force people to hide their true selves
Female friendship and its complexities: The novel examines both the life-affirming power of women supporting each other and the potential for manipulation within these relationships
The long-lasting effects of trauma: Multiple characters carry unresolved trauma that influences their decisions and relationships
The failure of institutions to protect women: The book critiques how society often fails survivors of sexual violence
Critical Observations
While You Must Be New Here succeeds on multiple levels, it's not without minor flaws. The revelation about Ben and Harper's true relationship, while shocking, feels somewhat disconnected from the central mystery. Additionally, some readers might find certain plot developments—particularly regarding Evan Gartner's crimes—require significant suspension of disbelief.
The novel's handling of sexual violence deserves recognition for its sensitivity and realism. Sise avoids sensationalizing trauma while honestly depicting its lasting effects on survivors. However, the sheer volume of abuse perpetrated by Evan Gartner occasionally strains credibility, even as it serves the thematic purpose of illustrating how predators often operate with impunity in positions of power.
Writing Style and Atmosphere
Sise's prose is clean and accessible without sacrificing depth. She excels at creating atmosphere through subtle details—the way light filters through windows, the sounds of suburban life, the tension in seemingly innocent conversations. Her background in television writing is evident in her ability to craft scenes that feel cinematic while maintaining the introspective quality necessary for psychological suspense.
The author's treatment of Daisy's medical condition adds authenticity and emotional depth to the story. Rather than using illness as a mere plot device, Sise explores how chronic conditions affect entire families, creating additional layers of vulnerability and motivation for her characters.
Final Verdict
You Must Be New Here succeeds as both an engaging page-turner and a thoughtful examination of contemporary social issues. Sise has created a thriller that respects both its characters and its readers, offering genuine surprises while maintaining emotional authenticity. The novel's exploration of female friendship, suburban secrets, and the aftermath of violence feels particularly relevant in our current cultural moment.
Despite minor structural issues, this book represents a significant achievement in psychological suspense. It's a novel that will appeal to fans of character-driven mysteries while satisfying readers seeking genuinely surprising plot developments.
The Art of Deceptive Simplicity
At first glance, Sycamore Glen appears to be the quintessential American suburb—manicured lawns, excellent schools, and families living their best lives. Sise masterfully uses this idyllic setting as a backdrop for something far more sinister. The author's ability to transform the mundane—school fundraisers, spelling bees, neighborhood coffee dates—into scenes crackling with tension showcases her sophisticated understanding of how evil often hides in plain sight.
The novel follows Sloane Thompson, a divorced mother caring for her daughter Daisy, who suffers from primary pulmonary hypertension. When mysterious new neighbors Ben and Harper Wilson move next door, Sloane finds herself drawn into a friendship that promises to fill the emotional void she's carried for years. However, when teenage babysitter Margaret Collins disappears after spending an evening at Sloane's house, the carefully constructed facades begin to crumble.
Character Development That Cuts Deep
Sise's greatest strength lies in her character development, particularly her portrayal of complex female relationships. Sloane emerges as a deeply relatable protagonist—a woman carrying trauma she's never fully processed, desperately seeking genuine connection while protecting her vulnerable daughter. Her friendship with Harper feels authentic in its intensity and intimacy, making the eventual revelations all the more devastating.
Harper Wilson proves to be one of the most compelling characters in recent thriller fiction. Initially presented as the charismatic, artistic newcomer who brings excitement to Sloane's mundane existence, Harper gradually reveals layers of complexity that challenge readers' perceptions. Sise skillfully balances Harper's magnetic personality with disturbing hints about her past, creating a character who is simultaneously sympathetic and unsettling.
The supporting cast, particularly Clara Gartner and Margaret Collins, adds crucial depth to the narrative. Clara's storyline—a woman discovering her husband's true nature—provides a powerful subplot about betrayal and resilience. Margaret, despite being absent for much of the novel, emerges as a fully realized character through flashbacks that reveal her intelligence, vulnerability, and tragic entanglement in adult secrets.
Structural Brilliance and Narrative Technique
The novel's structure deserves particular praise. Sise employs a dual-timeline approach, alternating between the present-day investigation and the week leading up to Margaret's disappearance. This technique builds suspense while gradually revealing crucial information about character motivations and relationships. The author's decision to include Margaret's perspective in the flashback chapters adds emotional weight and ensures that the victim remains a person rather than merely a plot device.
The pacing is meticulously controlled, with Sise understanding exactly when to reveal information and when to withhold it. Each chapter ends with subtle hooks that compel readers forward, while the overall narrative arc maintains momentum without sacrificing character development or thematic depth.
Themes That Resonate
You Must Be New Here tackles several weighty themes with nuance and sensitivity:
The masks we wear in suburban communities: Sise explores how social expectations force people to hide their true selves
Female friendship and its complexities: The novel examines both the life-affirming power of women supporting each other and the potential for manipulation within these relationships
The long-lasting effects of trauma: Multiple characters carry unresolved trauma that influences their decisions and relationships
The failure of institutions to protect women: The book critiques how society often fails survivors of sexual violence
Critical Observations
While You Must Be New Here succeeds on multiple levels, it's not without minor flaws. The revelation about Ben and Harper's true relationship, while shocking, feels somewhat disconnected from the central mystery. Additionally, some readers might find certain plot developments—particularly regarding Evan Gartner's crimes—require significant suspension of disbelief.
The novel's handling of sexual violence deserves recognition for its sensitivity and realism. Sise avoids sensationalizing trauma while honestly depicting its lasting effects on survivors. However, the sheer volume of abuse perpetrated by Evan Gartner occasionally strains credibility, even as it serves the thematic purpose of illustrating how predators often operate with impunity in positions of power.
Writing Style and Atmosphere
Sise's prose is clean and accessible without sacrificing depth. She excels at creating atmosphere through subtle details—the way light filters through windows, the sounds of suburban life, the tension in seemingly innocent conversations. Her background in television writing is evident in her ability to craft scenes that feel cinematic while maintaining the introspective quality necessary for psychological suspense.
The author's treatment of Daisy's medical condition adds authenticity and emotional depth to the story. Rather than using illness as a mere plot device, Sise explores how chronic conditions affect entire families, creating additional layers of vulnerability and motivation for her characters.
Final Verdict
You Must Be New Here succeeds as both an engaging page-turner and a thoughtful examination of contemporary social issues. Sise has created a thriller that respects both its characters and its readers, offering genuine surprises while maintaining emotional authenticity. The novel's exploration of female friendship, suburban secrets, and the aftermath of violence feels particularly relevant in our current cultural moment.
Despite minor structural issues, this book represents a significant achievement in psychological suspense. It's a novel that will appeal to fans of character-driven mysteries while satisfying readers seeking genuinely surprising plot developments.
October 16, 2025
Well this was a sneaky little domestic mystery/suspense. Multiple povs of shady characters in a community, dirty secrets and a murder. Kinda like a book version of desperate housewives.
It was good, interesting and quick - which I appreciated most of all!
Once I finished the story, I realize that a big part of this story plot is becoming more common these days because I recently read a similar storyline a few weeks ago.
The narration was really good and kept me engaged in the story!
It was good, interesting and quick - which I appreciated most of all!
Once I finished the story, I realize that a big part of this story plot is becoming more common these days because I recently read a similar storyline a few weeks ago.
The narration was really good and kept me engaged in the story!
August 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. I listened on audio through KU and thought the narration added so much to the suspense and atmosphere.
Sycamore Glen was the perfect setting. On the surface it felt like the kind of neighborhood everyone would want to live in, but underneath there were so many secrets and cracks showing through. I especially liked the character of the new neighbor, Harper. She was charismatic and magnetic, and I thought her relationship with Sloane added another layer to the story. She felt both trustworthy and suspicious at the same time, which kept me on edge.
One line that really stood out to me was, “As anxious hours turn into days, suspicion grows. And tension tightens. As if something is about to snap.” That sense of tension carried all the way through. Another memorable moment was, “What we thought were picture perfect families crumbles to reveal their fragile facade.” Katie Sise captured that theme so well.
The multiple POVs and shifting timelines worked beautifully, giving pieces of the puzzle without making it too easy to solve. The ending was satisfying and wrapped up the mystery in a way that made sense but still surprised me. I liked how the truth about Margaret finally came out, how the town’s perfect image collapsed under the weight of its secrets, and how the final reveals showed just how much manipulation was happening behind the scenes. It left me thinking about how easy it is to misjudge the people we think we know best.
This was a suspenseful, binge worthy read with characters who felt real and motives that kept me guessing until the very last chapter.
Sycamore Glen was the perfect setting. On the surface it felt like the kind of neighborhood everyone would want to live in, but underneath there were so many secrets and cracks showing through. I especially liked the character of the new neighbor, Harper. She was charismatic and magnetic, and I thought her relationship with Sloane added another layer to the story. She felt both trustworthy and suspicious at the same time, which kept me on edge.
One line that really stood out to me was, “As anxious hours turn into days, suspicion grows. And tension tightens. As if something is about to snap.” That sense of tension carried all the way through. Another memorable moment was, “What we thought were picture perfect families crumbles to reveal their fragile facade.” Katie Sise captured that theme so well.
The multiple POVs and shifting timelines worked beautifully, giving pieces of the puzzle without making it too easy to solve. The ending was satisfying and wrapped up the mystery in a way that made sense but still surprised me. I liked how the truth about Margaret finally came out, how the town’s perfect image collapsed under the weight of its secrets, and how the final reveals showed just how much manipulation was happening behind the scenes. It left me thinking about how easy it is to misjudge the people we think we know best.
This was a suspenseful, binge worthy read with characters who felt real and motives that kept me guessing until the very last chapter.
October 16, 2025
this is one of those domestic thrillers that from the very start, you know who did it but the twists and multiple point of views along the way still make the read engaging and worth it. also, the narrators for the audiobook (which i listened to) did a wonderful job. the one thing that felt off was the forced brief romance between two of the characters, it just felt so out of place considering the situation LOL. anywho, that’s all my thoughts
August 27, 2025
Solid thriller. Kept me guessing. Ofc very unrealistic but I still liked it. KU
August 30, 2025
I am not mad at this domestic thriller.
I love a multiple POV book and small town gossip, with some twists.
Check CW
I love a multiple POV book and small town gossip, with some twists.
Check CW
October 23, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
OMG THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD!!!! So many twists and turns. Highly recommend!
OMG THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD!!!! So many twists and turns. Highly recommend!
December 11, 2025
The twists and turns are in almost every chapter. It's very fast paced and hard to put down!
December 20, 2025
Short audiobook 3.75
July 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ this one was so close to five stars, but just didn’t completely make it there. This was a great great mystery book with a ton of main characters, but somehow even through all the different perspectives, the book was easy to read well also being super engaging. I felt like I could picture all of the characters and understand how they think. I feel like the ending was a little bit rushed, and I wish there was a little bit more detail, and there was a few things that frustrated me, which is why I’m not giving it five stars. There were some really great twists, which had me thinking there was a different killer every 25 pages. Overall, a really great book.
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