What do you think?
Rate this book
Cuckoo in the Nest
Don't miss the BRAND NEW, chillingly believable psychological thriller from Diane Saxon, bestselling author of My Mother's Lies 📚 Perfect for fans of T. M. Logan and Freida McFadden! What secrets lie within?
I've moved into a shared house. My three new housemates aren't just reserved, there's a distinct chill in the air, an unspoken tension that makes me uneasy.
I'm not here to make friends, though.
I have my own secrets.
Nikki is like a sister to me and I'm here to find out what happened to her.
Where is she?
I'm convinced someone knows more than they're letting on. Is she simply missing? Or has something far more sinister occurred within these walls?
I'm not leaving until I find out if Nikki is alive or dead.
Diane Saxon's heart-pounding novel is perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Valerie Keogh and TM Logan.
Praise for Diane
'It's the epitome of that great saying, "Just one more chapter!" Then you discover you've read another five. Highly recommend as a great psychological thriller.' Joy Ellis
'An unrelenting thriller that twisted my stomach in knots from cover to cover' Daniel G. Miller
'An intensely dark thriller.' Ross Greenwood
'Packed full of secrets and lies, and in a town filled with an unsettling atmosphere Saxon succeeds in putting the 'creep' in creepy.' Valerie Keogh
'A complex, dark and disturbing thriller, full of intrigue, toxic relationships and jaw dropping twists. 5 stars.' Alex Stone
'I highly recommend this book, you won't want to put it down.' Reader Review
I've moved into a shared house. My three new housemates aren't just reserved, there's a distinct chill in the air, an unspoken tension that makes me uneasy.
I'm not here to make friends, though.
I have my own secrets.
Nikki is like a sister to me and I'm here to find out what happened to her.
Where is she?
I'm convinced someone knows more than they're letting on. Is she simply missing? Or has something far more sinister occurred within these walls?
I'm not leaving until I find out if Nikki is alive or dead.
Diane Saxon's heart-pounding novel is perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Valerie Keogh and TM Logan.
Praise for Diane
'It's the epitome of that great saying, "Just one more chapter!" Then you discover you've read another five. Highly recommend as a great psychological thriller.' Joy Ellis
'An unrelenting thriller that twisted my stomach in knots from cover to cover' Daniel G. Miller
'An intensely dark thriller.' Ross Greenwood
'Packed full of secrets and lies, and in a town filled with an unsettling atmosphere Saxon succeeds in putting the 'creep' in creepy.' Valerie Keogh
'A complex, dark and disturbing thriller, full of intrigue, toxic relationships and jaw dropping twists. 5 stars.' Alex Stone
'I highly recommend this book, you won't want to put it down.' Reader Review
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 12, 2025
42 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Diane Saxon
31 books373 followersDiane Saxon lives in the Shropshire countryside with her tall, dark, handsome husband. She has two gorgeous daughters, a Dalmatian, two cats, numerous rare breed chickens, and grandfurbabies too.
After working for years in a demanding job, Diane gave it up when her husband said, “Follow that dream.” She subsequently had 12 romances published for the U.S. market then turned to the dark side with her psychological thrillers published through Boldwood Books.
Nominated for the CWA Dagger in the Library Award 2024 and an International No 1 Amazon Bestseller, Diane never regrets living her second life.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
September 13, 2025
Is blood really thicker than water? This heart-wrenching thriller explores the bond of friendship and what makes a family. The story is gripping, intense, and emotional. I was immediately invested in Alex and his quest for answers about Nikki’s disappearance. The alternating timelines and perspectives kept me immersed in this heartbreaking, compelling, and suspenseful thriller. This is the first book I have read by Diane Saxon, but it definitely will not be the last. I highly recommend this addictive thriller. Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my ARC.
September 12, 2025
My third Diane Saxon novel and I’ve enjoyed them all, with The Quiet Wife still holding the spot as my fav so far. I enjoyed this story with Alex, Nikki & Julia - I love it when all of the main characters are likeable. However, rest assured it had enough antagonists in the story to keep the readers on their toes.
I appreciated the concept of alternating between past and present, taking a deep dive into Alex’s past & troubled childhood made my heart ache for him even more. What I loved about Julia’s character, is how she did a kind deed with no expectation of anything in return. She literally saved Alex’s life and I enjoyed watching their bond flourish as he went into adulthood.
Nevertheless, I was still unable to pinpoint the magnitude of how deep the secrets went in this house. The story kept me engaged as Alex searched to find Nikki & the author did a great job at building anticipation as we awaited her fate.
Overall a solid, well written psychological thriller That I would recommend. Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
I appreciated the concept of alternating between past and present, taking a deep dive into Alex’s past & troubled childhood made my heart ache for him even more. What I loved about Julia’s character, is how she did a kind deed with no expectation of anything in return. She literally saved Alex’s life and I enjoyed watching their bond flourish as he went into adulthood.
Nevertheless, I was still unable to pinpoint the magnitude of how deep the secrets went in this house. The story kept me engaged as Alex searched to find Nikki & the author did a great job at building anticipation as we awaited her fate.
Overall a solid, well written psychological thriller That I would recommend. Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
August 12, 2025
Cuckoo in the Nest by Diane Saxon is a gripping psychological thriller that weaves suspense with deep emotional resonance. While entirely fictional, the heart of the story lies in the raw and painful background of the main character, Alex. Growing up in an abusive and neglected home, his early life is difficult to read about, both heartbreaking and painfully realistic.
Diane Saxon doesn’t shy away from showing the emotional scars and survival instincts that such a childhood can create. For me, this part of the book hit hard because I know many people who’ve come from similar backgrounds and gone on to become truly remarkable adults. What makes Alex’s story stand out is the unwavering support he receives from Nikki and her mother, Julia, who love and guide him every step of the way. The twists keep coming, making it impossible to predict what will happen next. Honestly, I can easily see future books where Alex transforms into an FBI-like figure, using his unique life experiences to help others.
Alex is the kind of character who stays with you long after the book ends. His quiet resilience and ability to read people make him both endearing and intriguing. He’s not perfect—far from it—but that’s what makes him believable. The trauma from his past has shaped him into someone hyper-aware of danger and able to pick up on subtle cues most people miss. Watching him slowly learn to trust and accept love, especially from Nikki and Julia, is one of the most rewarding parts of the book. You can’t help but root for him, not just to survive, but to thrive.
Nikki is a strong, compassionate presence throughout the story. She’s not just a passive supporter; she’s proactive in protecting Alex and standing up for him when others might doubt him. Her loyalty is fierce, and it’s clear she sees the good in Alex long before he sees it in himself. Julia, Nikki’s mother, is equally important—her warmth, understanding, and gentle guidance create a safe environment Alex has never known. Together, Nikki and Julia form a sort of emotional shield around Alex, helping him find stability in a world that has given him very little of it.
Diane Saxon’s writing is sharp and emotionally intelligent. She knows how to pace a thriller so that the tension never really let’s go, even in the quieter, more reflective moments. The psychological depth she gives her characters makes the suspense all the more powerful, you’re not just worried about the plot twists, you’re invested in the people they’re happening to. This blend of character-driven storytelling and pulse-pounding suspense is what kept me turning the pages.
What really makes this book stand out is the balance between darkness and hope. Alex’s backstory is tragic, and parts of it are difficult to process, but there’s always a thread of possibility running through the narrative. You can feel him evolving as the story progresses, taking cautious steps toward a future that might be better than his past. The ending leaves you both satisfied and curious about what’s next for him, especially if Diane Saxon does decide to create more stories where Alex uses his insight and instincts to help others in an investigative role.
In short, Cuckoo in the Nest isn’t just a psychological thriller—it’s a story about survival, trust, and the power of compassion to change a life. It’s suspenseful enough to keep you hooked, but it’s the characters, especially Alex, Nikki, and Julia, who make it unforgettable.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the Advanced Readers Copy. All opinions expressed are my own since I have freedom of speech.
Diane Saxon doesn’t shy away from showing the emotional scars and survival instincts that such a childhood can create. For me, this part of the book hit hard because I know many people who’ve come from similar backgrounds and gone on to become truly remarkable adults. What makes Alex’s story stand out is the unwavering support he receives from Nikki and her mother, Julia, who love and guide him every step of the way. The twists keep coming, making it impossible to predict what will happen next. Honestly, I can easily see future books where Alex transforms into an FBI-like figure, using his unique life experiences to help others.
Alex is the kind of character who stays with you long after the book ends. His quiet resilience and ability to read people make him both endearing and intriguing. He’s not perfect—far from it—but that’s what makes him believable. The trauma from his past has shaped him into someone hyper-aware of danger and able to pick up on subtle cues most people miss. Watching him slowly learn to trust and accept love, especially from Nikki and Julia, is one of the most rewarding parts of the book. You can’t help but root for him, not just to survive, but to thrive.
Nikki is a strong, compassionate presence throughout the story. She’s not just a passive supporter; she’s proactive in protecting Alex and standing up for him when others might doubt him. Her loyalty is fierce, and it’s clear she sees the good in Alex long before he sees it in himself. Julia, Nikki’s mother, is equally important—her warmth, understanding, and gentle guidance create a safe environment Alex has never known. Together, Nikki and Julia form a sort of emotional shield around Alex, helping him find stability in a world that has given him very little of it.
Diane Saxon’s writing is sharp and emotionally intelligent. She knows how to pace a thriller so that the tension never really let’s go, even in the quieter, more reflective moments. The psychological depth she gives her characters makes the suspense all the more powerful, you’re not just worried about the plot twists, you’re invested in the people they’re happening to. This blend of character-driven storytelling and pulse-pounding suspense is what kept me turning the pages.
What really makes this book stand out is the balance between darkness and hope. Alex’s backstory is tragic, and parts of it are difficult to process, but there’s always a thread of possibility running through the narrative. You can feel him evolving as the story progresses, taking cautious steps toward a future that might be better than his past. The ending leaves you both satisfied and curious about what’s next for him, especially if Diane Saxon does decide to create more stories where Alex uses his insight and instincts to help others in an investigative role.
In short, Cuckoo in the Nest isn’t just a psychological thriller—it’s a story about survival, trust, and the power of compassion to change a life. It’s suspenseful enough to keep you hooked, but it’s the characters, especially Alex, Nikki, and Julia, who make it unforgettable.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the Advanced Readers Copy. All opinions expressed are my own since I have freedom of speech.
July 8, 2025
Title: Cuckoo in the Nest
Author: Diane Saxon
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication Date: August 12, 2025
This book tells the story of Alex and alternates between present day and the past, 22 years ago. Reading about Alex's childhood really tugged at my heartstrings. His upbringing was definitely rough.
This was an easy read, and it totally held my attention. I loved the storyline, but have to say the ending was pretty predictable. Even though it was predictable, the heartbreaking tale totally made it worth my time. If I ever need someone to save me, I could only hope to be lucky enough to have someone like Alex in my life.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: Diane Saxon
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication Date: August 12, 2025
This book tells the story of Alex and alternates between present day and the past, 22 years ago. Reading about Alex's childhood really tugged at my heartstrings. His upbringing was definitely rough.
This was an easy read, and it totally held my attention. I loved the storyline, but have to say the ending was pretty predictable. Even though it was predictable, the heartbreaking tale totally made it worth my time. If I ever need someone to save me, I could only hope to be lucky enough to have someone like Alex in my life.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
July 24, 2025
As a devoted admirer of Diane's work, I was absolutely thrilled to dive into this latest read!
Alex has moved into a shared house where the atmosphere is tense and their three housemates are distant. Although they feel uncomfortable, their primary goal is not to make friends but to uncover the truth about their missing friend, Nikki. Alex believes someone in the house knows more about Nikki’s disappearance and is determined to find out what happened to her, whether she is alive or dead.
The book unfolds in a dual timeline, allowing us to explore Alex's past while also getting glimpses of Nikki's perspective, which sheds light on the mystery surrounding her disappearance. The narrative primarily follows Alex, but Nikki's insights are crucial in piecing together the puzzle. As we journey through Alex's present, the story unravels beautifully, and everything starts to click into place. It’s a wild ride, and I found myself racing through the pages faster than I could keep up!
Alex is a genuinely likable character, equipped with a moral compass that points due north, despite the challenging circumstances of his upbringing. There’s an abundance of goodness in him that makes you root for his success.
Now, I must admit, the pacing of this book is a bit more moderate than what I typically use to from this author. However, the gripping narrative and the intricacies of the plot made it nearly impossible to put down. I did find myself scratching my head over the title—while "Cuckoo" suggests a menace to other birds, Alex is anything but a troublemaker. In fact, he’s a good-hearted soul navigating a complex situation.
This read is perfect for those who relish a good mystery that keeps you guessing, with just the right amount of creepiness and suspense to keep you on your toes. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Alex has moved into a shared house where the atmosphere is tense and their three housemates are distant. Although they feel uncomfortable, their primary goal is not to make friends but to uncover the truth about their missing friend, Nikki. Alex believes someone in the house knows more about Nikki’s disappearance and is determined to find out what happened to her, whether she is alive or dead.
The book unfolds in a dual timeline, allowing us to explore Alex's past while also getting glimpses of Nikki's perspective, which sheds light on the mystery surrounding her disappearance. The narrative primarily follows Alex, but Nikki's insights are crucial in piecing together the puzzle. As we journey through Alex's present, the story unravels beautifully, and everything starts to click into place. It’s a wild ride, and I found myself racing through the pages faster than I could keep up!
Alex is a genuinely likable character, equipped with a moral compass that points due north, despite the challenging circumstances of his upbringing. There’s an abundance of goodness in him that makes you root for his success.
Now, I must admit, the pacing of this book is a bit more moderate than what I typically use to from this author. However, the gripping narrative and the intricacies of the plot made it nearly impossible to put down. I did find myself scratching my head over the title—while "Cuckoo" suggests a menace to other birds, Alex is anything but a troublemaker. In fact, he’s a good-hearted soul navigating a complex situation.
This read is perfect for those who relish a good mystery that keeps you guessing, with just the right amount of creepiness and suspense to keep you on your toes. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2025
Alex knows his best friend Nikki wouldn’t just disappear. He knows one of her flat mates knows what happened. He doesn't trust any of them... but he is determined to get to the truth.
This was a really enjoyable read. I liked that we get dual timelines of Alex's past and we see how he got to know Nikki alongside the current events as it really sets the scene and makes sense of their relationship with one another. The story is told mostly from Alex's point of view but we get a few glimpses of Nikki's experience in the flat before she went missing.
The flat mates are an unlikeable bunch of people and I thought the author did a good job of bringing all the characters together. Alex's back story was so sad!
There are some good twists and turns at the end of the book and it all resolves in a really satisfying way! Perfect for fans of claustrophobic thrillers.
Huge thanks to the author, Boldwood Books, Netgalley and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review.
This was a really enjoyable read. I liked that we get dual timelines of Alex's past and we see how he got to know Nikki alongside the current events as it really sets the scene and makes sense of their relationship with one another. The story is told mostly from Alex's point of view but we get a few glimpses of Nikki's experience in the flat before she went missing.
The flat mates are an unlikeable bunch of people and I thought the author did a good job of bringing all the characters together. Alex's back story was so sad!
There are some good twists and turns at the end of the book and it all resolves in a really satisfying way! Perfect for fans of claustrophobic thrillers.
Huge thanks to the author, Boldwood Books, Netgalley and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review.
June 23, 2025
In this novel we meet Alex who's moved into a house share with 3 others, but he's not there because he needs somewhere to live, he's there to infiltrate to discover what happened to his friend Nikki.
The novel is set over 2 timelines, Alex now and Alex when he was a child and first met Nikki. His story is harrowing and heartbreaking.
I love Diane Saxon novels, she has the correct balance between suspense and intruige ramping up the tension as the book progresses.
The novel is set over 2 timelines, Alex now and Alex when he was a child and first met Nikki. His story is harrowing and heartbreaking.
I love Diane Saxon novels, she has the correct balance between suspense and intruige ramping up the tension as the book progresses.
August 17, 2025
Diane Saxon delivers a gripping psychological thriller in Cuckoo in the Nest, a story that is as unsettling as it is addictive. From the very beginning, there’s a palpable sense of unease surrounding Alex’s apartment—something isn’t quite right, though the truth remains just out of reach. As Alex struggles to unravel the mystery of his missing best friend, the tension steadily escalates, pulling the reader deeper into a web of suspicion and psychological twists.
What makes this novel so effective is the way Saxon balances atmosphere with character-driven suspense. Alex’s confusion and determination are written in a way that makes you feel his frustration and growing paranoia, leaving you just as uncertain about what’s real and what isn’t. Each chapter builds on that unsettling feeling, layering clues and misdirections until the shocking truth finally comes to light.
Dark, twisted, and relentlessly engaging, Cuckoo in the Nest is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Diane Saxon masterfully keeps the reader off-balance, proving once again that the most terrifying mysteries often hide closest to home.
What makes this novel so effective is the way Saxon balances atmosphere with character-driven suspense. Alex’s confusion and determination are written in a way that makes you feel his frustration and growing paranoia, leaving you just as uncertain about what’s real and what isn’t. Each chapter builds on that unsettling feeling, layering clues and misdirections until the shocking truth finally comes to light.
Dark, twisted, and relentlessly engaging, Cuckoo in the Nest is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Diane Saxon masterfully keeps the reader off-balance, proving once again that the most terrifying mysteries often hide closest to home.
August 25, 2025
This is a really good thriller. It is a dual timeline novel, flashing back and forth between Alex’s past and present. I appreciate the way the two timelines grew and twined together to create a gripping plot. The puzzle pieces were dropped like breadcrumbs, some big enough you knew it was important, others flying under the radar until the ah ha! moment. Overall, a good read I recommend checking out if you love thrillers!
Alex knows something is wrong. He came back from assignment to find Nikki, his foster sister, missing. They said she probably just went off for a vacation, but he is the only one that she tells everything to. His gut pointed him in the right direction when he was younger and it had never failed him. He’s not going to ignore it now. So when the police aren’t convinced anything happened to her, he takes matter into his own hands.
Thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
Alex knows something is wrong. He came back from assignment to find Nikki, his foster sister, missing. They said she probably just went off for a vacation, but he is the only one that she tells everything to. His gut pointed him in the right direction when he was younger and it had never failed him. He’s not going to ignore it now. So when the police aren’t convinced anything happened to her, he takes matter into his own hands.
Thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
August 12, 2025
I have spent a lovely afternoon in the garden completely engrossed in this fabulous novel by the very talented author Diane Saxon. I ploughed through the chapters and couldn’t wait to see what the cunning plot twists would be. I am definitely not going to spoil these for you but believe me the wait is worth it!
Told in a dual perspective and over a dual timeline we meet Alex and Nikki. They meet as Alex has been left by his abusive father at the park and Nikki and her mother take pity on him. Despite the 5 year age gap the pair become close and when the unthinkable happens and Alex needs to be fostered it is Nikki and her mum that take him in. Present day sees the two correspond by her leaving voice notes, of increasing discontent at the house share she has moved to. Alex returns to find her gone and the past seems to be returning through his dreams and reality.
Great characters and a plot that really keeps the reader interested. The house share residents were so dark that they all seemed like likely suspects for wrong doing. I loved the final reveal and definitely did not guess what it would be. The ending wrapped it up really well.
One I will be recommending and happy to give a solid 5 star review.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Told in a dual perspective and over a dual timeline we meet Alex and Nikki. They meet as Alex has been left by his abusive father at the park and Nikki and her mother take pity on him. Despite the 5 year age gap the pair become close and when the unthinkable happens and Alex needs to be fostered it is Nikki and her mum that take him in. Present day sees the two correspond by her leaving voice notes, of increasing discontent at the house share she has moved to. Alex returns to find her gone and the past seems to be returning through his dreams and reality.
Great characters and a plot that really keeps the reader interested. The house share residents were so dark that they all seemed like likely suspects for wrong doing. I loved the final reveal and definitely did not guess what it would be. The ending wrapped it up really well.
One I will be recommending and happy to give a solid 5 star review.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2025
Ive been a fan of Diane's for a while, but i think this is her darkest and creepiest books yet.
It follows Alex and Nikki, alternating between the current time and 20 years previously.
Alex had a tough childhood, but an unexpected encounter with a little girl changes his life forever.
When she mysteriously goes missing Alex stays in the house she was in, to try and investigate what happened.
Both stories are brilliantly told and the flip between timelines clever and relevant. Alex suffers horribly at the hands of his father as a child. There is no graphic description of what happens. A lot of the abuse is deprivation rather than physical.
Alex was a wonderful character, I dont think he had any grey areas, any faults, except for maybe being a typical man and not showing his true feelings! Nikki was great and her childish sayings and sense of fun were infectious.
Can't not mention Julia, a shining light throughout, and Saul, very much the opposite!
Absolutely raced through this and think my heart raced quickly along with it!
It follows Alex and Nikki, alternating between the current time and 20 years previously.
Alex had a tough childhood, but an unexpected encounter with a little girl changes his life forever.
When she mysteriously goes missing Alex stays in the house she was in, to try and investigate what happened.
Both stories are brilliantly told and the flip between timelines clever and relevant. Alex suffers horribly at the hands of his father as a child. There is no graphic description of what happens. A lot of the abuse is deprivation rather than physical.
Alex was a wonderful character, I dont think he had any grey areas, any faults, except for maybe being a typical man and not showing his true feelings! Nikki was great and her childish sayings and sense of fun were infectious.
Can't not mention Julia, a shining light throughout, and Saul, very much the opposite!
Absolutely raced through this and think my heart raced quickly along with it!
August 14, 2025
Wow- 5 stars
What a book i just wanted to carry on reading it.
I went in completely blind to what it was about, all the way through i had no idea only a few suspicions i absolutely loved it.
Diane saxon has made me want to read more of her books.
What a book i just wanted to carry on reading it.
I went in completely blind to what it was about, all the way through i had no idea only a few suspicions i absolutely loved it.
Diane saxon has made me want to read more of her books.
July 21, 2025
Alex has moved into a house sharing with three other people and to say they are distant with him is an understatement, but he's not there to cosy up to them and make friends. Nikki is like a sister to him and he's there to find out what has happened, she hasn't been seen or heard of now for weeks, even her mum hasn't spoken to her and Alex knows she wouldn't do that to Julia or to him. He's certain something untoward is happening in that house and won't leave until he uncovers the truth.
Cuckoo in the Nest is the new thriller by this author, told mainly from the perspective of Alex with some input from Nikki. The story switches between various timelines; twenty years earlier when Alex and Nikki were children, twelve years earlier when Nikki was a teenager and the present day. Alex had a harrowing childhood living with his dad and was befriended by Nikki and they have been close ever since. I loved the bond between these two and the way her mum Julia looked out for him and took him under her wing. This was a tough read, not only because of how Alex and his mum were treated by his dad but also with the strange goings on at the house where Nikki had disappeared from and there were some very tense and creepy moments throughout. This is an intriguing and compelling read by a new to me author, which I devoured in less than 24 hours and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I'd like to thank Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
Cuckoo in the Nest is the new thriller by this author, told mainly from the perspective of Alex with some input from Nikki. The story switches between various timelines; twenty years earlier when Alex and Nikki were children, twelve years earlier when Nikki was a teenager and the present day. Alex had a harrowing childhood living with his dad and was befriended by Nikki and they have been close ever since. I loved the bond between these two and the way her mum Julia looked out for him and took him under her wing. This was a tough read, not only because of how Alex and his mum were treated by his dad but also with the strange goings on at the house where Nikki had disappeared from and there were some very tense and creepy moments throughout. This is an intriguing and compelling read by a new to me author, which I devoured in less than 24 hours and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I'd like to thank Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
June 26, 2025
Qow qhat a crazy wild ride, never giving up. Loved everything about this book. I couldn't put it down. The ending was beautiful.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book.
June 19, 2025
Psychological thriller that's unique all on it's own.
So dark it will take your breath away.
One house, four tenants, one deadly secret.
Alex makes himself the number four tenancy addition signing on the dotted lines, he is here for a purpose to find Nikki, this is a big mission to be accomplish.
Wow and its a big one, unputdownable thriller.
Creepy and twisty to the end.
So dark it will take your breath away.
One house, four tenants, one deadly secret.
Alex makes himself the number four tenancy addition signing on the dotted lines, he is here for a purpose to find Nikki, this is a big mission to be accomplish.
Wow and its a big one, unputdownable thriller.
Creepy and twisty to the end.
August 17, 2025
While the premises of the storyline was nice. It took a while for it to get interesting with the longwinded build up. It goes from past to present between the FMC and MMC. I did like that Alex came back to find his best friend and how he grew, the discovery of him mom (that shocked me to my core), his father was pure trash. Nikki, bless her heart, just naive and dunce from childhood to adulthood, smh. I like the book but its nothing I would rave about it or put it at the top of recommend list. While its an enjoyable quick read some parts wer just longwinded for me.
August 1, 2025
It took me a while to get into this book, but once I did, it blew me away.. what secrets is the house hiding in the house share? The tenants never stay long, but why?
Alex was adopted by his friends mom, Julia, when he was younger... when julia contacts Alex to say nikki has gone missing, he comes home and gets a room in the house share. But something is very wrong within !!. Where is nikki? Can Alex find her?. I would definitely recommend this book
Alex was adopted by his friends mom, Julia, when he was younger... when julia contacts Alex to say nikki has gone missing, he comes home and gets a room in the house share. But something is very wrong within !!. Where is nikki? Can Alex find her?. I would definitely recommend this book
July 18, 2025
A gripping and twisty thriller, that is absolutely brilliant, and also., it's a really touching family story. I fully accept that that makes no sense at all, but trust me on this! Diane Saxon always delivers, but this one is extra amazing!
Alex is the main narrator of the story, which is told across two timelines, the present and his childhood. In the present day, Nikki, his sister, is missing and Alex has just moved into the house share she was living in when she disappeared, looking for clues. Alex, Nikki and their mum, Julia are the kind of people any of us would love to have as family or friends. Alex's new house mates however? Not quite! They are hostile and strange.
Love them or loathe them, all of the characters were well written and believable, the pace as fast and the plot was fantastic!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Diane Saxon and Boldwood for an ARC of this book.
Alex is the main narrator of the story, which is told across two timelines, the present and his childhood. In the present day, Nikki, his sister, is missing and Alex has just moved into the house share she was living in when she disappeared, looking for clues. Alex, Nikki and their mum, Julia are the kind of people any of us would love to have as family or friends. Alex's new house mates however? Not quite! They are hostile and strange.
Love them or loathe them, all of the characters were well written and believable, the pace as fast and the plot was fantastic!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Diane Saxon and Boldwood for an ARC of this book.
July 23, 2025
A dual-timeline page-turner that kept me guessing.
Told through flashbacks, we meet young Alex, whose life is marked by trauma—his mother has disappeared, and he suffers abuse at the hands of his father. When he crosses paths with Nikki and her mum, Julia, a glimmer of hope enters his life. Fast forward to the present day, and Alex is now searching for Nikki, who has mysteriously vanished. He inserts himself into the house where she was last seen—a house filled with unsettling roommates, layers of unease, and Alex’s own heavy baggage of PTSD. Something about the whole setup feels… off.
I found the first half of the book intriguing for its multi-POV structure and atmosphere-building, though it did feel a bit slow at times. The pace really picks up in the second half, delivering the tension and momentum I was hoping for.
My biggest sticking point was Alex himself. For someone shaped by so much trauma, he comes across as almost too pure. I kept expecting a darker or more complex turn in his arc that never quite came. Still, this was a gripping and well-crafted thriller overall.
Told through flashbacks, we meet young Alex, whose life is marked by trauma—his mother has disappeared, and he suffers abuse at the hands of his father. When he crosses paths with Nikki and her mum, Julia, a glimmer of hope enters his life. Fast forward to the present day, and Alex is now searching for Nikki, who has mysteriously vanished. He inserts himself into the house where she was last seen—a house filled with unsettling roommates, layers of unease, and Alex’s own heavy baggage of PTSD. Something about the whole setup feels… off.
I found the first half of the book intriguing for its multi-POV structure and atmosphere-building, though it did feel a bit slow at times. The pace really picks up in the second half, delivering the tension and momentum I was hoping for.
My biggest sticking point was Alex himself. For someone shaped by so much trauma, he comes across as almost too pure. I kept expecting a darker or more complex turn in his arc that never quite came. Still, this was a gripping and well-crafted thriller overall.
August 1, 2025
This was the first book of Diane Saxon's I've read and it did not disappoint! Extremely gripping the whole way through! A heart wrenching story with a lovely ending! 4stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2025
Other GR reviewers have said they found this book to have a slow start & that it took them a while to get in to it but I felt drawn in from the first few pages, and found the childhood sections particularly interesting. The dual timelines really worked & helped build suspense and seeing how- and why- Alex and Nikki bonded so completely as children set the foundations for the remainder of the book. It was refreshing to read a book from this genre where the three main characters are so likeable & ‘nice’ too. I’ve read a run of ‘thrillers’ lately & all of them became more and more bizarre the further I read, resulting in mind-boggling conclusions. This one is more skillfully constructed, still unpredictable but way more believable despite the grim circumstances. I really enjoyed it and although I was constantly expecting a huge twist in the final pages it didn’t happen and was all the more satisfying for that!
Thank you Net Galley for the ARC.
July 23, 2025
From the start, this novel was gripping and moreish! At times it felt absolutely cuckoo, a very scary story, but it comes full circle. Alex was a lovely character, he was just dealt a horrendous deck of cards growing up, and it obviously affected him into adulthood. Nikki and her mum Julia are also lovely characters, I think everyone needs someone like Julia! The house share would put anyone off the idea of a house share after reading this! A horrid bunch, and I truly had no idea which way any of it was going to go. I felt this novel was well thought out, it was a really good story and it rounded off well. I’ll be looking out for more books by this author.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
July 24, 2025
This was a really good read, Alex moves into an apartment with 3 others, but something feels off. Nicki who he grew up with has gone missing and he wants to find her. This story was twisty and the ending was not what I’d expected. The chapters go back and forth to childhood and adulthood which is good as you can see where the story is going and why he feels he needs to find Nicki. A great thriller 4.5 stars. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.
July 28, 2025
This is another fabulous ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read from this author and perfect for anyone who loves a good twisty abs suspenseful slow burning psychological thriller which gave me the chills and creeps throughout. There was also an underlying story running beneath the darkness of love and acceptance.
It also covered a very sensitive theme and brought it out into the open. I won’t say what it is here for fear of spoiler.s.
I was hooked from the first page and couldn’t put it down from beginning to end.
It also covered a very sensitive theme and brought it out into the open. I won’t say what it is here for fear of spoiler.s.
I was hooked from the first page and couldn’t put it down from beginning to end.
July 21, 2025
A thriller that actually had me guessing right up until the end. I really enjoyed the jeopardy in both times with those stories being told concurrently, it really added to the creepiness of the book. I thought the characters were really well written, especially Saul, as they were incredibly unlikeable. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I’ll be on the lookout for more.
July 14, 2025
Alex has moved into a house share with three other people, for no other reason than to find out the truth about what’s happened to Nikki. The book switches between the past, where Alex is a young boy who’s being brought up by his abusive alcoholic father, and the present where Alex is searching for some answers about what has happened to his friend Nikki.
I thought the writing style and plot were both excellent and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. The book has only lost one star because I personally felt that parts of the twists were somewhat predictable, but I still thought this was a great read nonetheless.
This is the first Diane Saxon novel that I have read, but I will certainly be reading more. Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
I thought the writing style and plot were both excellent and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. The book has only lost one star because I personally felt that parts of the twists were somewhat predictable, but I still thought this was a great read nonetheless.
This is the first Diane Saxon novel that I have read, but I will certainly be reading more. Thank you NetGalley for my ARC.
July 16, 2025
Cuckoo in the nest was a fast paced psychological thriller that was filled with dark twists and turns that had me biting my nails.
The character development and backstory behind Alex was phenomenal, unexpected and well rounded. I was so hooked on the flashbacks we were getting into his childhood, and the relationship he was building with Nikki.
Highly recommend.
The character development and backstory behind Alex was phenomenal, unexpected and well rounded. I was so hooked on the flashbacks we were getting into his childhood, and the relationship he was building with Nikki.
Highly recommend.
August 12, 2025
A cracking thriller!
Alex has his own memories of childhood, but what made it all improve was Nikki and her mother; he owes them everything. So when Nikki goes missing, he will do whatever it takes to find out what's going on, so he begins by taking on a room in the flat she was living in when she disappeared . . .
This is a tale of two halves; Alex, in the present day and recounting - via his memories - of how Nikki came to be in his life. It pulls you in from the very beginning and before you know it, you're glued to the pages wanting to read just a bit more ... which turns into the early hours of the morning! As I carried on, my heart rate increased and my stomach somersaulted - a bit like being on a roller coaster. Exciting, and very unpredictable this is a stunning thriller written, it has to be said, by a lovely woman with a spectacular puppy - who would ever suspect what's going on in her head? I've never been disappointed by a Diane Saxon book yet, and this one definitely raises the bar! Highly recommended and oh so easily meriting all five sparkling stars!
Alex has his own memories of childhood, but what made it all improve was Nikki and her mother; he owes them everything. So when Nikki goes missing, he will do whatever it takes to find out what's going on, so he begins by taking on a room in the flat she was living in when she disappeared . . .
This is a tale of two halves; Alex, in the present day and recounting - via his memories - of how Nikki came to be in his life. It pulls you in from the very beginning and before you know it, you're glued to the pages wanting to read just a bit more ... which turns into the early hours of the morning! As I carried on, my heart rate increased and my stomach somersaulted - a bit like being on a roller coaster. Exciting, and very unpredictable this is a stunning thriller written, it has to be said, by a lovely woman with a spectacular puppy - who would ever suspect what's going on in her head? I've never been disappointed by a Diane Saxon book yet, and this one definitely raises the bar! Highly recommended and oh so easily meriting all five sparkling stars!
June 28, 2025
Another absolutely gripping thriller. Love the way Diane writes. Definitely did not expect things to go the way they did.
June 26, 2025
Creepy mystery with some even creepier characters! I suspected all of the roommates, but never figured it who did it.
Thanks for the ARC Netgalley.
Thanks for the ARC Netgalley.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews