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The Board
Perfect for fans of Big Little Lies, The Board is one mother’s attempt to uncover the dark secrets that pervade her small New England town. Has she uncovered a criminal enterprise run by members of the school board? Or is it all in her head?
So much for fresh starts. When single mom Liv and her third-grade daughter move to a small New Hampshire town from Boston after a messy divorce and an even messier job loss, they soon find themselves dealing with major culture shock. Within days, Liv is on the “problem” list of the man who acts both as principal and superintendent in her district, and he shuts down her concerns at a school board meeting. Liv’s daughter suffers from anxiety but the school is run like an army barracks.
When Liv discovers that former teacher Lydia Brown was bullied, intimidated, and forced to resign by the board, she begins a quest to uncover what’s really happening at the school. But as she comes into conflict with her ex-husband and the law, she begins to wonder if all of her suspicions are only in her head. Is she only imagining things? Or will she be able to reveal the dark truth about unchecked power in this small town—before more people disappear?
So much for fresh starts. When single mom Liv and her third-grade daughter move to a small New Hampshire town from Boston after a messy divorce and an even messier job loss, they soon find themselves dealing with major culture shock. Within days, Liv is on the “problem” list of the man who acts both as principal and superintendent in her district, and he shuts down her concerns at a school board meeting. Liv’s daughter suffers from anxiety but the school is run like an army barracks.
When Liv discovers that former teacher Lydia Brown was bullied, intimidated, and forced to resign by the board, she begins a quest to uncover what’s really happening at the school. But as she comes into conflict with her ex-husband and the law, she begins to wonder if all of her suspicions are only in her head. Is she only imagining things? Or will she be able to reveal the dark truth about unchecked power in this small town—before more people disappear?
290 pages, Paperback
Published September 9, 2025
30 people are currently reading
12370 people want to read
About the author
Katy Farber
14 books89 followersKaty Farber is an author and Assistant Professor of Education in Vermont. Katy has authored or co-authored four books about education, a picture book called Salamander Sky (McSea Books), and a middle grade novel called The Order of the Trees. Her latest education book came out in June, called Real Talk for New Teachers: Tools for a Sustainable Career with Routledge. Her debut fiction for adults is called The Board and will be published by Blackstone Publishing on Sept. 9, 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 25, 2025
A deft mix of dark academia and mystery, The Board was both addictive and a quick, easy read. From the flawed, relatable protagonist and her amateur sleuthing to her motley crew of friends, I was pulled into this tale of dark secrets and even darker villains. With an us-versus-them feel in a small New Hampshire town setting, it was both realistic and just a bit over-the-top. After all, to believe that a single mom would go to these lengths was somewhat hard to fathom. Despite that, however, once I suspended all disbelief, I happily buckled up for the ratcheting levels of dread that made my fingers fly through the pages.
The best piece of this one, though, was the underlying message. Focusing on serious topics such as abuse of power, misogyny, and what women often have face day-to-day in a man’s world, the emotional depth made the story hit hard. But it was the sweet mother-daughter relationship and Olivia’s bravery to do whatever it took to protect her child that made this one sing. Delivering a strong mystery as well as a sense of paranoia and fear that evoked Gillian Flynn’s Sharp Objects, I found it impossible to put down and read it in only a matter of hours. After all, this book was as timely as it was riveting.
All said and done, despite the initial slow-boiling pace, I was utterly blown away by this dynamite novel. With a heart-pounding climax and soul-satisfying conclusion, there was everything you could want in this bingeable novel. Even a tiny bit of romance. Particularly relevant right now, this book was perfect for anyone who has been made to feel small. Shrewd, compelling, and deliciously intense, I felt like a fly on the wall in this claustrophobic small town. So if you love books that come complete with a message as well as plenty of spine-tingling chills, grab this one now. After all, I inhaled it in one go. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
So much for fresh starts. When single mom Liv and her third-grade daughter move to a small New Hampshire town from Boston after a messy divorce and an even messier job loss, they soon find themselves dealing with major culture shock. Within days, Liv is on the “problem” list of the man who acts both as principal and superintendent in her district, and he shuts down her concerns at a school board meeting. Liv’s daughter, who suffers from anxiety, struggles to adapt at a school run like an army barracks.
When Liv discovers that a former teacher was bullied, intimidated, and forced to resign by the board, she begins a quest to uncover what’s really happening at the school. But as she comes into conflict with her ex-husband and the law, she begins to wonder if all of her suspicions are only in her mind. Is she only imagining things? Or will she be able to reveal the dark truth about unchecked power in this small town—before more people disappear?
Thank you to Katy Farber and Blackstone Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: September 9, 2025
Content warning: sexual harassment, misogyny, missing persons, stalking, threats, gun violence, kidnapping, mention of: divorce
The best piece of this one, though, was the underlying message. Focusing on serious topics such as abuse of power, misogyny, and what women often have face day-to-day in a man’s world, the emotional depth made the story hit hard. But it was the sweet mother-daughter relationship and Olivia’s bravery to do whatever it took to protect her child that made this one sing. Delivering a strong mystery as well as a sense of paranoia and fear that evoked Gillian Flynn’s Sharp Objects, I found it impossible to put down and read it in only a matter of hours. After all, this book was as timely as it was riveting.
All said and done, despite the initial slow-boiling pace, I was utterly blown away by this dynamite novel. With a heart-pounding climax and soul-satisfying conclusion, there was everything you could want in this bingeable novel. Even a tiny bit of romance. Particularly relevant right now, this book was perfect for anyone who has been made to feel small. Shrewd, compelling, and deliciously intense, I felt like a fly on the wall in this claustrophobic small town. So if you love books that come complete with a message as well as plenty of spine-tingling chills, grab this one now. After all, I inhaled it in one go. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
So much for fresh starts. When single mom Liv and her third-grade daughter move to a small New Hampshire town from Boston after a messy divorce and an even messier job loss, they soon find themselves dealing with major culture shock. Within days, Liv is on the “problem” list of the man who acts both as principal and superintendent in her district, and he shuts down her concerns at a school board meeting. Liv’s daughter, who suffers from anxiety, struggles to adapt at a school run like an army barracks.
When Liv discovers that a former teacher was bullied, intimidated, and forced to resign by the board, she begins a quest to uncover what’s really happening at the school. But as she comes into conflict with her ex-husband and the law, she begins to wonder if all of her suspicions are only in her mind. Is she only imagining things? Or will she be able to reveal the dark truth about unchecked power in this small town—before more people disappear?
Thank you to Katy Farber and Blackstone Publishing for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: September 9, 2025
Content warning: sexual harassment, misogyny, missing persons, stalking, threats, gun violence, kidnapping, mention of: divorce
January 2, 2026
"...The Board is one mother’s attempt to uncover the dark secrets that pervade her small New England town. Has she uncovered a criminal enterprise run by members of the school board? Or is it all in her head?" I was totally vested in this one due to the fact that I'm a teacher and from a small town with small town politics. I could feel this mother's pain as she was seen as an "outsider" and questioned the school's militant control over the students. Her daughter Piper is a little sensitive and also a new student, which is always hard for kids. Liv fled from her Boston home and husband after a messy divorce and a job loss, which things do not get easier in the Whitebridge town in New Hampshire. The principal Bob is also the superintendent and works quickly to shut Liv down and put her on the "problem" list. This does not make it any easier for her daughter. When she questions about one of the teachers that left due to bullying and intimidation, she soon finds their lives in danger. Something sinister and eerie is happening in this town, which kept me in suspense until the last chapter. I thoroughly enjoyed it and am excited to read more from this author.
Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing, Inc. for this incredible ARC in exchange for my review.
Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing, Inc. for this incredible ARC in exchange for my review.
March 27, 2025
ARC for review. To be published September 9, 2025.
2 stars
Liv Wilcox is a single mom to third grade daughter Piper and they’ve moved to Whitebridge, New Hampshire after Liv’s divorce and a messy job loss. Sensitive Piper is now in school but Liv is quickly labeled as a “problem” parent by Bob Stewart, the principal and superintendent of Piper’s school. The place is run like a military academy.
Liv begins to investigate and learns that Lydia Brown, a former teacher, was bullied and forced to resign. Things begin to get worse for Liv and Piper, and police are involved. What is going on in this small town?
The sales pitch on this likened it to BIG LITTLE LIES, but…no. Liv is an insane person putting both herself and her daughter at risk constantly. I couldn’t stand her. Go to the state police, you nutjob! And quit impersonating a lawyer, you are never, ever going to pass the character exam to actually become one, you know! It only gets two stars because it had nice cats and a sweet old lady.
2 stars
Liv Wilcox is a single mom to third grade daughter Piper and they’ve moved to Whitebridge, New Hampshire after Liv’s divorce and a messy job loss. Sensitive Piper is now in school but Liv is quickly labeled as a “problem” parent by Bob Stewart, the principal and superintendent of Piper’s school. The place is run like a military academy.
Liv begins to investigate and learns that Lydia Brown, a former teacher, was bullied and forced to resign. Things begin to get worse for Liv and Piper, and police are involved. What is going on in this small town?
The sales pitch on this likened it to BIG LITTLE LIES, but…no. Liv is an insane person putting both herself and her daughter at risk constantly. I couldn’t stand her. Go to the state police, you nutjob! And quit impersonating a lawyer, you are never, ever going to pass the character exam to actually become one, you know! It only gets two stars because it had nice cats and a sweet old lady.
July 6, 2025
From the very first chapter of The Board, I found myself completely immersed in the emotional intensity and quiet suspense that author Katy Farber weaves with such skill. Liv's story felt incredibly real—her desperation for a fresh start, her fierce love for her daughter, and her growing sense of unease in a town that seems charming on the outside but hides something much darker beneath the surface.
Farber masterfully explores themes of gaslighting, power abuse, and small-town politics through Liv’s relentless pursuit of truth. As a reader, I couldn’t help but question everything alongside her: Is she uncovering a deeply rooted conspiracy, or is she slowly unraveling? That tension kept me turning pages late into the night. The portrayal of Liv’s daughter’s anxiety and the impossible choices mothers must make for their kids made this novel hit all the harder.
Katy Farber delivers not only a gripping mystery, but also a thoughtful examination of what happens when institutions fail the people they're meant to serve—and how one woman’s courage can shine a light in even the darkest corners.
The Board is a slow-burning, fiercely compelling novel that combines the domestic tension of Big Little Lies with the chilling paranoia of Sharp Objects. A must-read for anyone who’s ever questioned authority—or been made to feel small for doing so.
Farber masterfully explores themes of gaslighting, power abuse, and small-town politics through Liv’s relentless pursuit of truth. As a reader, I couldn’t help but question everything alongside her: Is she uncovering a deeply rooted conspiracy, or is she slowly unraveling? That tension kept me turning pages late into the night. The portrayal of Liv’s daughter’s anxiety and the impossible choices mothers must make for their kids made this novel hit all the harder.
Katy Farber delivers not only a gripping mystery, but also a thoughtful examination of what happens when institutions fail the people they're meant to serve—and how one woman’s courage can shine a light in even the darkest corners.
The Board is a slow-burning, fiercely compelling novel that combines the domestic tension of Big Little Lies with the chilling paranoia of Sharp Objects. A must-read for anyone who’s ever questioned authority—or been made to feel small for doing so.
September 15, 2025
This was a quick read and I was vested enough to finish. Otherwise this was a situation where I did not care for the main character, she was incredibly frustrating and made horrible decisions, but I wanted to know how it would all wrap up.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Bibliolifestyle #partner for the gifted copy to review.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Bibliolifestyle #partner for the gifted copy to review.
August 16, 2025
This book was concise and quick, but left me with questions. It just kinda dove right in to present storyline, and left me with questions about how we got here and it was never really answered. It very much felt like we skipped 50 pages of world building. Which, for a thriller especially a more domestic feeling thriller, you don’t necessarily need a lot of world building. But this really did feel like we got thrown into the deep end with no context. I just wanted more of a well rounded story.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
September 29, 2025
In many ways, schools have become ground zero for the political wars playing out on our national stage. Katy Farber uses her experience both in the classrooms and as an engaged citizen to site her debut adult novel in a small-town school in New Hampshire. A small-town school not just in the crosshairs of the culture wars, but perhaps engaged in something even more sinister and vile.
Liv is having a bit of a moment, an awakening of her internal and external selves. As a feminist, she knows how society and norms are structured to privilege white men and the patriarchy, but in leaving a Boston law firm where she silently endured a culture of sexual harassment (but wasn't the first to speak up), in leaving a marriage where it was subtle but deeply felt she was second fiddle to her husband, and moving into an old New England home she inherited from her strong, knowledgeable, and badass town librarian aunt, Liv slowly grows into her power. She begins to take agency, instead of a back seat, to setting things right, instead of enduring them in agony.
As women - and as mothers raising daughters - we often want to be strong (for ourselves, and for them) and we know what that looks like theoretically, but in many countless ways, we acquiesce our strong feminist values, like every time we paste a smile on our faces rather than speak up, or maneuver our bodies to avoid male colleagues who like to stand too close. Liv wrestles with these internal struggles - that is, as soon as her daughter - shy, sweet, and intuitive Piper, is singled out at her new school and treated unfairly. That sets off in Liv a fierce protectiveness, but also taps into her elemental strengths, her intuition that something is off, really off, in their new town, in this new school. And she's tired of going along just to get along. She's ready to fight back.
Instead of getting the nice, quiet fresh start she envisioned by moving to New Hampshire, Liv embarks on a quest to get to the root of it all. Why is the principal and school board chair so power hungry? Why is Nick, the school custodian, allowed to have so many power tools stored in his self-named "Man Cave"? Why did the consultant from the Agency of Education disappear? What ever happened to the vibrant, young, social justice-centered teacher? By following her instincts, and budding legal expertise, she puts everything on the line to uncover the truth. Whatever it might cost.
Taunt, thrilling, smart, and snappy, The Board leaves me feeling both thoroughly entertained and fired up.
Thank you, Katy!
Liv is having a bit of a moment, an awakening of her internal and external selves. As a feminist, she knows how society and norms are structured to privilege white men and the patriarchy, but in leaving a Boston law firm where she silently endured a culture of sexual harassment (but wasn't the first to speak up), in leaving a marriage where it was subtle but deeply felt she was second fiddle to her husband, and moving into an old New England home she inherited from her strong, knowledgeable, and badass town librarian aunt, Liv slowly grows into her power. She begins to take agency, instead of a back seat, to setting things right, instead of enduring them in agony.
As women - and as mothers raising daughters - we often want to be strong (for ourselves, and for them) and we know what that looks like theoretically, but in many countless ways, we acquiesce our strong feminist values, like every time we paste a smile on our faces rather than speak up, or maneuver our bodies to avoid male colleagues who like to stand too close. Liv wrestles with these internal struggles - that is, as soon as her daughter - shy, sweet, and intuitive Piper, is singled out at her new school and treated unfairly. That sets off in Liv a fierce protectiveness, but also taps into her elemental strengths, her intuition that something is off, really off, in their new town, in this new school. And she's tired of going along just to get along. She's ready to fight back.
Instead of getting the nice, quiet fresh start she envisioned by moving to New Hampshire, Liv embarks on a quest to get to the root of it all. Why is the principal and school board chair so power hungry? Why is Nick, the school custodian, allowed to have so many power tools stored in his self-named "Man Cave"? Why did the consultant from the Agency of Education disappear? What ever happened to the vibrant, young, social justice-centered teacher? By following her instincts, and budding legal expertise, she puts everything on the line to uncover the truth. Whatever it might cost.
Taunt, thrilling, smart, and snappy, The Board leaves me feeling both thoroughly entertained and fired up.
Thank you, Katy!
September 5, 2025
The Board by Katy Farber was a quick and engaging read that kept me questioning everything until the end. The pacing is tight, making it easy to fly through in just a couple of sittings, and I appreciated how the story stayed mysterious enough to keep me turning pages. I enjoyed the unsettling atmosphere and the way the plot pushed me to keep guessing about what was really happening.
That said, I struggled with the main character. Their decisions and behavior often frustrated me, which made it difficult to fully invest in their journey. While the mystery element worked well and the tension was well crafted, I found myself detached emotionally because of how unlikable I found the protagonist.
Overall, this is a solid suspense novel with a strong premise, and readers who enjoy fast-paced mysteries with plenty of twists may find it satisfying. For me, it landed in the middle entertaining and propulsive, but hindered by a lead character I just couldn’t connect with.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts
That said, I struggled with the main character. Their decisions and behavior often frustrated me, which made it difficult to fully invest in their journey. While the mystery element worked well and the tension was well crafted, I found myself detached emotionally because of how unlikable I found the protagonist.
Overall, this is a solid suspense novel with a strong premise, and readers who enjoy fast-paced mysteries with plenty of twists may find it satisfying. For me, it landed in the middle entertaining and propulsive, but hindered by a lead character I just couldn’t connect with.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts
August 16, 2025
The Board by Katy Farber. Thanks to @blackstonepublishing #blackstoneinsiders for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Liv moves to her deceased Aunt’s house for a fresh start as a single mother with her daughter Liv. Immediately problems start with the local school board and Liv begins and investigation that leads her to believe there’s a criminal enterprise lurking.
While I did not love Liv’s character, I enjoyed the mystery behind the story and stuck with the story because I wanted to see Bob and the board taken down. Liv was frustrating and some of her actions repetitive. I liked the investigation but just wish she wasn’t pretending to be a lawyer; it seemed so unethical when she could have just told the truth!
“The board is run like a mafia. You get in line, or you get out. Simple as that.”
The Board comes out 9/9.
Liv moves to her deceased Aunt’s house for a fresh start as a single mother with her daughter Liv. Immediately problems start with the local school board and Liv begins and investigation that leads her to believe there’s a criminal enterprise lurking.
While I did not love Liv’s character, I enjoyed the mystery behind the story and stuck with the story because I wanted to see Bob and the board taken down. Liv was frustrating and some of her actions repetitive. I liked the investigation but just wish she wasn’t pretending to be a lawyer; it seemed so unethical when she could have just told the truth!
“The board is run like a mafia. You get in line, or you get out. Simple as that.”
The Board comes out 9/9.
September 6, 2025
#ad much love for my advance copy @blackstonepublishing #partner
The Board
“𝘒𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯.
𝘐𝘨𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴.
𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵.
𝘉𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘺𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦.
𝘋𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨,” (p. 9).
^ 𝙶𝚒𝚛𝚕𝚜 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚠𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚜 - 𝚒𝚝’𝚜 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚠𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚊𝚛𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚟𝚎. 𝙸𝚝’𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚐𝚞𝚗…
Why were women always having to figure out their escape routes, the distance to the door, the dangerous math of "could I make it there?,” (p. 88).
Olivia and Piper have just relocated to a new town, a new school, and what they hope will be a fresh start. But something about Piper’s school feels… off. When Olivia attends a school board meeting, she quickly realizes just how powerless she is in this new community. The mention of being placed on “the list” is the last thing she needs right now, yet her name may already be heading there.
Bob Stewart - the superintendent and principal - seems to have a personal vendetta against her, and he certainly doesn’t want to hear her voice or her opinions. Olivia can’t shake the feeling that she’s stepped into dangerous territory, and his presence alone leaves her with an unsettling sense that something is deeply wrong.
I absolutely loved this book. I can’t even pinpoint one reason - it was the writing, the characters, the eerie small-town atmosphere - it all just worked beautifully. Olivia’s character especially stood out to me. She’s studying for the Bar, pushing herself to become a lawyer, even as her inner critics (and outside doubters) constantly undermine her confidence. The added tension with the Board only heightens her challenges, creating an intriguing and even more compelling story.
Mom Guilt
Cats
The struggles Liv faces felt so real and authentic. Reeling from a recent divorce, the death of her aunt - whose house she now lives in - losing her job, all added to the complicated mess she finds herself in.
I also liked how the author tackled the issue of the type of behavior women have to deal with - unsolicited comments, sexism, etc. It added another layer of authenticity to the story. Watching Liv overcome it all was pure magic.
Would recommend to those who enjoy domestic suspense with a major emphasis on the town and the people living there. It’s a soothing type of suspense which may sound odd because of the storyline. But Farber’s writing is exactly like that. Loved everything about this book. It’s the type of read that you can visualize happening in your head. Pure magic.
The Board
“𝘒𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘥𝘰𝘸𝘯.
𝘐𝘨𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴.
𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵.
𝘉𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘺𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦.
𝘋𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨,” (p. 9).
^ 𝙶𝚒𝚛𝚕𝚜 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚠𝚑𝚘𝚕𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚜 - 𝚒𝚝’𝚜 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚠𝚎 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚊𝚛𝚛𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚟𝚎. 𝙸𝚝’𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚢 𝚋𝚎𝚐𝚞𝚗…
Why were women always having to figure out their escape routes, the distance to the door, the dangerous math of "could I make it there?,” (p. 88).
Olivia and Piper have just relocated to a new town, a new school, and what they hope will be a fresh start. But something about Piper’s school feels… off. When Olivia attends a school board meeting, she quickly realizes just how powerless she is in this new community. The mention of being placed on “the list” is the last thing she needs right now, yet her name may already be heading there.
Bob Stewart - the superintendent and principal - seems to have a personal vendetta against her, and he certainly doesn’t want to hear her voice or her opinions. Olivia can’t shake the feeling that she’s stepped into dangerous territory, and his presence alone leaves her with an unsettling sense that something is deeply wrong.
I absolutely loved this book. I can’t even pinpoint one reason - it was the writing, the characters, the eerie small-town atmosphere - it all just worked beautifully. Olivia’s character especially stood out to me. She’s studying for the Bar, pushing herself to become a lawyer, even as her inner critics (and outside doubters) constantly undermine her confidence. The added tension with the Board only heightens her challenges, creating an intriguing and even more compelling story.
Mom Guilt
Cats
The struggles Liv faces felt so real and authentic. Reeling from a recent divorce, the death of her aunt - whose house she now lives in - losing her job, all added to the complicated mess she finds herself in.
I also liked how the author tackled the issue of the type of behavior women have to deal with - unsolicited comments, sexism, etc. It added another layer of authenticity to the story. Watching Liv overcome it all was pure magic.
Would recommend to those who enjoy domestic suspense with a major emphasis on the town and the people living there. It’s a soothing type of suspense which may sound odd because of the storyline. But Farber’s writing is exactly like that. Loved everything about this book. It’s the type of read that you can visualize happening in your head. Pure magic.
September 8, 2025
I was hooked from the very first page of this tense and gripping thriller.
A mother begins to uncover disturbing secrets at her daughter’s school—wait, what? The deeper she digs, the more sinister it gets. The Board is shrouded in secrecy and darkness, and in this small town where everyone knows everything, the truth is the last thing they want exposed.
As I read, I found myself questioning everything right alongside her. Is there really a conspiracy? What is happening in this town? The struggles, fear, and determination of this mother felt so real, making the story all the more powerful.
Thank you so much to Katy Farber and Blackstone Publishing for this gifted copy through my giveaway win.
A mother begins to uncover disturbing secrets at her daughter’s school—wait, what? The deeper she digs, the more sinister it gets. The Board is shrouded in secrecy and darkness, and in this small town where everyone knows everything, the truth is the last thing they want exposed.
As I read, I found myself questioning everything right alongside her. Is there really a conspiracy? What is happening in this town? The struggles, fear, and determination of this mother felt so real, making the story all the more powerful.
Thank you so much to Katy Farber and Blackstone Publishing for this gifted copy through my giveaway win.
September 19, 2025
A propulsive mystery wrapped in a feminist manifesto! 💥📓💪🏽
December 17, 2025
While this book was a little predictable, I enjoyed the read. I appreciated that the author is a professor of education so there is some authenticity to the writing.
April 9, 2025
Liv, a single mom trying to start over in a small town with her daughter, is at a crossroads. No job, new town, new divorce, but she was left a house when her beloved aunt passed.
At the very start of her daughter's school day, she finds herself in the crosshairs of the school board. What might normally be a difference of opinion, this board seems to have darker issues.
She finds that a teacher was forced out, and moved from the town. Liv decides to get to the bottom of it.
Her new neighbor, who had been a friend of her aunt, is helpful and a delight. Her daughter is a nice character, and you are rooting for them to find their footing.
I enjoyed this book. The only minor criticism I have is that it seemed every chapter had something about men keeping her down, silent, taking advantage, etc. It's an important topic, but it started to seem like Liv couldn't let it go.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Net Galley for a digital ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
At the very start of her daughter's school day, she finds herself in the crosshairs of the school board. What might normally be a difference of opinion, this board seems to have darker issues.
She finds that a teacher was forced out, and moved from the town. Liv decides to get to the bottom of it.
Her new neighbor, who had been a friend of her aunt, is helpful and a delight. Her daughter is a nice character, and you are rooting for them to find their footing.
I enjoyed this book. The only minor criticism I have is that it seemed every chapter had something about men keeping her down, silent, taking advantage, etc. It's an important topic, but it started to seem like Liv couldn't let it go.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and Net Galley for a digital ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 2, 2025
I wanted to give 3.5 stars but NetGalley (and Goodreads) doesn’t allow that. For me it just didn’t quite hit the 4th star though. This book is about a recently divorced Mom who has dealt with some of the consequences of living in a male-centered world. In a new town with her daughter, she learns right away that something is not on the up and up with the current school administration. She tasks herself with the burden of solving the puzzle, stopping the crime, and putting the town back to honest standards again.
While I did feel compelled to finish this story and find out what was truly going on, I struggled a bit with some of the main character’s choices and thoughts. For one- I will never really understand why book characters decide it is their job alone to solve a major crime when clearly dangerous people are involved- and not loop in some form of law enforcement. Sure, some local law is always at the risk of being compromised but maybe find someone above them, or outside of town to help. And second- it irritated me how often Liv put herself in a position for her daughter to be vulnerable. She recognizes that she will lose her daughter if she continues her trek into danger. Yet still she perseveres without back-up on her “missions.” Some of what happened to her and her daughter she literally brought upon them both with her actions.
Also, as a woman I can fully appreciate that the odds are often stacked against us in a man’s world. And the main character clearly went through some things that have caused her to be sick of feeling used and overlooked just for being female. However, this theme was extremely prevalent and repetitive in the book. I don’t like to complain about this because again- I’m on “our side” when it comes to women. Especially in our current climate. But I do believe that it didn’t have to be referred to on practically every page. At some point it was overkill (don’t stone me, I still agree with her thoughts, it just was a lot).
Ultimately, I was pulled along despite all of my mentioned misgivings. The ending was a bit lackluster with resolution- I think I expected there to be more going on overall. But it still held my interest until the last page.
Thank you #NetGalley for the chance to read #The Board early. Also thank you to #blackstonepublishing.
While I did feel compelled to finish this story and find out what was truly going on, I struggled a bit with some of the main character’s choices and thoughts. For one- I will never really understand why book characters decide it is their job alone to solve a major crime when clearly dangerous people are involved- and not loop in some form of law enforcement. Sure, some local law is always at the risk of being compromised but maybe find someone above them, or outside of town to help. And second- it irritated me how often Liv put herself in a position for her daughter to be vulnerable. She recognizes that she will lose her daughter if she continues her trek into danger. Yet still she perseveres without back-up on her “missions.” Some of what happened to her and her daughter she literally brought upon them both with her actions.
Also, as a woman I can fully appreciate that the odds are often stacked against us in a man’s world. And the main character clearly went through some things that have caused her to be sick of feeling used and overlooked just for being female. However, this theme was extremely prevalent and repetitive in the book. I don’t like to complain about this because again- I’m on “our side” when it comes to women. Especially in our current climate. But I do believe that it didn’t have to be referred to on practically every page. At some point it was overkill (don’t stone me, I still agree with her thoughts, it just was a lot).
Ultimately, I was pulled along despite all of my mentioned misgivings. The ending was a bit lackluster with resolution- I think I expected there to be more going on overall. But it still held my interest until the last page.
Thank you #NetGalley for the chance to read #The Board early. Also thank you to #blackstonepublishing.
October 27, 2025
i guess this is more of a 2.5 star rating but it lacked a lot of character and plot development. i had this on my to-read shelf for awhile because the premise was good, but as soon as i read the last page my immediate thought was how disappointing it was. i expected more mystery, horror, or at least some big plot twist that would happen at the end, but instead i was left with the prime suspects obviously being the culprits, with what seemed like a last ditch effort to make things mysterious by throwing in a random death. the main character liv was so frustrating. she kept being fearful and protective of her daughter, but then would continue to do stupid things like leave her in the car when she went to go investigate roger? she would also continue to pursue this mystery of the board while fearing her daughter's safety...like if you're going to continue to do this, you can't keep saying "oh no piper no one touch my daughter", when you're CHOOSING to put her in harm's way. i also didn't like her little romance with silas, who seemed like he was way younger than her. this whole book rubbed me the wrong way. i think it would have been higher if like her friend laura or neighbor till were the secret evil guys, but nope. and also her moping and whining about her dead aunt esther when she wasn't even with esther when she was dying? pick a struggle girl.
also the lydia plot was a weird unsolved plot hole. like fym she disappears for 8 days just to end up in ojai as a teacher? and she didn't even tell her mom??? i felt like a lot of the plot points led to dead ends and it didn't feel like a satisfying ending. i expected way more and got way less, and there were so many plot holes in the end that i was upset by the ending. however i do think the plot was original and creative, but ultimately lacked a deeper in-depth story building and character development.
also the lydia plot was a weird unsolved plot hole. like fym she disappears for 8 days just to end up in ojai as a teacher? and she didn't even tell her mom??? i felt like a lot of the plot points led to dead ends and it didn't feel like a satisfying ending. i expected way more and got way less, and there were so many plot holes in the end that i was upset by the ending. however i do think the plot was original and creative, but ultimately lacked a deeper in-depth story building and character development.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
This book has a unique storyline that, as an educator, I both loved (because I was invested), and did not love (because the corruption was sickening). I loved the small-town New England setting, and the characters of Piper and Till, and the cats, Steinem and Snowflake. A quick and thought-provoking read!
Read
September 29, 2025DNF
September 29, 2025
# Giveaway
Olivia, a recently divorced single mom moves into her late aunt’s home to start a new life with her 8 yr old daughter Piper. Liv soon butts heads with the school district’s board. Liv has a history of being the victim to toxic men and is at the point where she decides enough is enough. She decides to take down this evil church going school board comprised of three main antagonists. In uncovering their secrets, she finds danger that goes beyond military like school management.
First off the good:
This book did a great job of making me really hate the bad guys. Immediately starting the story, the reader knows who the bad guy is. The author did a great job of making me want to see the destruction of the antagonist.
I also liked that at times I found myself doubting Olivia and her sanity. Throughout the story, Liv is battling her inner thoughts that are negative. At times, I found myself doubting the protagonist, which goes to show the author did a great job at playing with the readers head . It had me questioning “are the risks Liv taking worth it.”
Liv experienced Sexual assault and the author did a decent job showing the negative feeling and distrust women feel towards men in general when they’ve been repeatedly harassed.
Cons:
Various times Liv mentioned needing to study for the boards to become a lawyer and prove to men in her past that she can do it. She never studies, but instead trespasses and commits acts that a lawyer would not approve of. I would have liked it a lot better if she took down the bad guys using her legal smarts she mentioned she was so determined to have.
The characters also seemed very stereotypical. The antagonists were all described as church going hypocrites, while the good guys were outcasts that supported happy kids and lgbtq. It felt woke. Liv also had some deep distrust towards men which also includes God due to her assault history (mentions male rage being quick to, how it’s exhausting being a woman and sick kids not being part of God’s plan).
The story was a quick read, but Liv making illegal decisions to take down the bad guys, felt frustrating. Due to her legal background and frequent reminder that she was trying to stand up for herself, I expected a more controlled and legal take down. She has a daughter to think about, but instead risks her life and her daughter’s to pursue “answers”. She could have gone to the police her sought some form of legal help, but instead tries to due it all herself. She spent a lot of time trying to prove the toxic people in her life and herself that she can do it, but only solves one problem The frequent cursing was annoying.
Content warning
Spice: 0/5
Cursing 5/5 (multiple f words, frequent use of Lords name in vain, frequent use of common curses)
Violence: 3/5 (gunpoint, sexual assault mentioned in past and men touching/harassing main character)
Olivia, a recently divorced single mom moves into her late aunt’s home to start a new life with her 8 yr old daughter Piper. Liv soon butts heads with the school district’s board. Liv has a history of being the victim to toxic men and is at the point where she decides enough is enough. She decides to take down this evil church going school board comprised of three main antagonists. In uncovering their secrets, she finds danger that goes beyond military like school management.
First off the good:
This book did a great job of making me really hate the bad guys. Immediately starting the story, the reader knows who the bad guy is. The author did a great job of making me want to see the destruction of the antagonist.
I also liked that at times I found myself doubting Olivia and her sanity. Throughout the story, Liv is battling her inner thoughts that are negative. At times, I found myself doubting the protagonist, which goes to show the author did a great job at playing with the readers head . It had me questioning “are the risks Liv taking worth it.”
Liv experienced Sexual assault and the author did a decent job showing the negative feeling and distrust women feel towards men in general when they’ve been repeatedly harassed.
Cons:
Various times Liv mentioned needing to study for the boards to become a lawyer and prove to men in her past that she can do it. She never studies, but instead trespasses and commits acts that a lawyer would not approve of. I would have liked it a lot better if she took down the bad guys using her legal smarts she mentioned she was so determined to have.
The characters also seemed very stereotypical. The antagonists were all described as church going hypocrites, while the good guys were outcasts that supported happy kids and lgbtq. It felt woke. Liv also had some deep distrust towards men which also includes God due to her assault history (mentions male rage being quick to, how it’s exhausting being a woman and sick kids not being part of God’s plan).
The story was a quick read, but Liv making illegal decisions to take down the bad guys, felt frustrating. Due to her legal background and frequent reminder that she was trying to stand up for herself, I expected a more controlled and legal take down. She has a daughter to think about, but instead risks her life and her daughter’s to pursue “answers”. She could have gone to the police her sought some form of legal help, but instead tries to due it all herself. She spent a lot of time trying to prove the toxic people in her life and herself that she can do it, but only solves one problem The frequent cursing was annoying.
Content warning
Spice: 0/5
Cursing 5/5 (multiple f words, frequent use of Lords name in vain, frequent use of common curses)
Violence: 3/5 (gunpoint, sexual assault mentioned in past and men touching/harassing main character)
September 9, 2025
📚 PUB DAY BOOK REVIEW 📚
The Board By Katy Farber
Publication Date: September 9, 2025
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
(Rounded Up To 5⭐)
Thank you so much to Blackstone Publishing and the Blackstone Insiders program for the #gifted ARC BookMail in exchange for my honest review!
📚MY REVIEW:
The Board, the debut adult novel from Katy Farber, is a fast-paced and suspenseful read that is the perfect book for a one-sitting read on a crisp autumn afternoon. It features an unwelcoming small town, morally grey characters, the slightest hint of a love story, a theme of found family, and tension that slowly builds until its heart-pounding conclusion.
Single mom Liv and her young daughter Piper have just moved from Boston to a small town in New Hampshire where newcomers are outliers and all the locals fear those in powerful positions on the local school board. Liv's marriage in Boston ended turbulently, and when her beloved Aunt Esther passed away and left Liv her family home, Liv knows it's time for a change. But Piper isn't happy at her new school, and in attempting to share input at a school board meeting, Liv has managed to get herself put on "the list" of parents who aren't viewed positively by school administrators and the school board. Liv is convinced there's something nefarious going on with the school, which seems to be run like a military academy. As she digs into this school, she learns her Aunt Esther was looking into it too. Liv is compelled to solve this mystery on her aunt's behalf, and to ensure Piper's safety there. But what will happen if she uncovers something dangerous? And will she risk everything to ensure the truth comes to light?
This was a quick read for me, as Farber's writing style really pulled me in immediately and created characters that were easy to care about. The underlying themes in this book were so timely, too, featuring perspective about being a woman in a male-dominant society, speaking up against injustices, and supporting others who choose to step outside the norms of society. I appreciated the way these themes were interwoven into the suspenseful and tension-building plotlines within the book -- subtle and poignant at the same time.
If you're a fan of gripping and suspenseful reads that will pull you in quickly but give you that slow-burning tension build on every page, be sure you add The Board to your TBR today!
#TheBoard #KatyFarber #BlackstonePublishing #BlackstoneInsiders #gifted #ARC #BookMail #bookreviews #bookrecs #thrillerlover #thrilleraddict #mysteries#booklover #bookaddict
The Board By Katy Farber
Publication Date: September 9, 2025
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
(Rounded Up To 5⭐)
Thank you so much to Blackstone Publishing and the Blackstone Insiders program for the #gifted ARC BookMail in exchange for my honest review!
📚MY REVIEW:
The Board, the debut adult novel from Katy Farber, is a fast-paced and suspenseful read that is the perfect book for a one-sitting read on a crisp autumn afternoon. It features an unwelcoming small town, morally grey characters, the slightest hint of a love story, a theme of found family, and tension that slowly builds until its heart-pounding conclusion.
Single mom Liv and her young daughter Piper have just moved from Boston to a small town in New Hampshire where newcomers are outliers and all the locals fear those in powerful positions on the local school board. Liv's marriage in Boston ended turbulently, and when her beloved Aunt Esther passed away and left Liv her family home, Liv knows it's time for a change. But Piper isn't happy at her new school, and in attempting to share input at a school board meeting, Liv has managed to get herself put on "the list" of parents who aren't viewed positively by school administrators and the school board. Liv is convinced there's something nefarious going on with the school, which seems to be run like a military academy. As she digs into this school, she learns her Aunt Esther was looking into it too. Liv is compelled to solve this mystery on her aunt's behalf, and to ensure Piper's safety there. But what will happen if she uncovers something dangerous? And will she risk everything to ensure the truth comes to light?
This was a quick read for me, as Farber's writing style really pulled me in immediately and created characters that were easy to care about. The underlying themes in this book were so timely, too, featuring perspective about being a woman in a male-dominant society, speaking up against injustices, and supporting others who choose to step outside the norms of society. I appreciated the way these themes were interwoven into the suspenseful and tension-building plotlines within the book -- subtle and poignant at the same time.
If you're a fan of gripping and suspenseful reads that will pull you in quickly but give you that slow-burning tension build on every page, be sure you add The Board to your TBR today!
#TheBoard #KatyFarber #BlackstonePublishing #BlackstoneInsiders #gifted #ARC #BookMail #bookreviews #bookrecs #thrillerlover #thrilleraddict #mysteries#booklover #bookaddict
December 4, 2025
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗢𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝗯𝘆 𝗞𝗮𝘁𝘆 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗲𝗿 is a gripping, fast-paced small-town thriller that digs into the unsettling reality of unchecked power within the school system. When Liv, a newly single mom, relocates to rural New Hampshire hoping for a fresh start, she’s met instead with hostility, rigid rules, and a school environment that feels more militarized than nurturing. Her daughter’s anxiety is dismissed, her concerns are silenced, and the superintendent–principal’s iron grip over the district becomes more disturbing by the day. Though Liv can be a deeply frustrating protagonist—her impulsive decisions and growing paranoia often make you want to shake her—you can’t help but follow her descent into suspicion. Katy Farber does an excellent job blurring the line between genuine danger and Liv’s fear-fueled imagination. As the mystery deepens and whispers of a former teacher’s forced resignation intensify, the tension escalates toward a chilling finale that makes the journey worth it. Quick, unsettling, and surprisingly timely, this story exposes the dark side of small-town politics and the frightening consequences of speaking out.
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
🏘️ Small-Town Secrets
🌀 Gaslighting
🏛️ Corruption & Power Abuse
🔎 Amateur Sleuth
😵💫 Paranoid Protagonist
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
🏘️ Small-Town Secrets
🌀 Gaslighting
🏛️ Corruption & Power Abuse
🔎 Amateur Sleuth
😵💫 Paranoid Protagonist
July 25, 2025
Title: The Board
Author: Katy Farber
Rating: ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Publication Date: September 9, 2025
I work at a high school, and I know quite a bit about school board meetings, so I was intrigued by the description of this book. This book draws attention to the actual corruption that occurs in school districts/school boards across the country. Granted, most of the corruption that takes place in real life isn't as serious as what took place in the book, but corruption nonetheless.
The main character, Liv, was annoying at times. She took risks that were unnecessary and often acted without thinking. The author also spent quite a bit of time focusing on the way she had been treated by men in the past. I really couldn't figure out why it was brought up so much, especially since it didn't have anything to do with the plot. The ending seemed quite abrupt, and there really wasn't a thorough description/explanation of the corruption that had been going on.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: Katy Farber
Rating: ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Publication Date: September 9, 2025
I work at a high school, and I know quite a bit about school board meetings, so I was intrigued by the description of this book. This book draws attention to the actual corruption that occurs in school districts/school boards across the country. Granted, most of the corruption that takes place in real life isn't as serious as what took place in the book, but corruption nonetheless.
The main character, Liv, was annoying at times. She took risks that were unnecessary and often acted without thinking. The author also spent quite a bit of time focusing on the way she had been treated by men in the past. I really couldn't figure out why it was brought up so much, especially since it didn't have anything to do with the plot. The ending seemed quite abrupt, and there really wasn't a thorough description/explanation of the corruption that had been going on.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
August 8, 2025
Thank you @blackstonepublishing #partner for this ARC.
From the very first chapter I was immediately fired up and let’s just say my feelings toward the school board members were not exactly warm. And yes that frustration only grew as I read on.
While there were no jaw dropping twists or shocking moments the steady air of mystery surrounding this shady little New Hampshire town kept me turning the pages. I really liked how the main character Olivia took on an investigative role as she tried to uncover what was really going on at her daughter’s school.
The story also had a strong message about women embracing who they truly are which Olivia struggles with and gradually grows into throughout the book.
The ending was just okay, but overall this was a pretty good read that was still super bingeable and easy to fly through.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
From the very first chapter I was immediately fired up and let’s just say my feelings toward the school board members were not exactly warm. And yes that frustration only grew as I read on.
While there were no jaw dropping twists or shocking moments the steady air of mystery surrounding this shady little New Hampshire town kept me turning the pages. I really liked how the main character Olivia took on an investigative role as she tried to uncover what was really going on at her daughter’s school.
The story also had a strong message about women embracing who they truly are which Olivia struggles with and gradually grows into throughout the book.
The ending was just okay, but overall this was a pretty good read that was still super bingeable and easy to fly through.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 11, 2025
What’s not to like here? A protagonist you can root for…an insiders guide into what is good and horrifying in our public schools…a revisiting of the glass ceiling in the 21st century …sub characters that are both likable and push the plot along… enough red herrings in the plot to keep you guessing with a plot twist at the end that is both satisfying and plausible! It’s not often you get a mystery/thriller novel involving sinister behavior within a school system that isn’t either weighted down by Lolita-ish themes or dominated by one dimensional teacher stereo-types. In The Board, author Katy Farber sticks with her storyline pushing the plot one crumb at a time the way we mystery readers like it. The novel’s critical eye toward the destructive consequences of a conservative patriarchy is both politically timely and refreshing in its sentiments.
January 14, 2026
The author clearly knows a lot about public school systems, and she developed an interesting mystery plot line. The corruption among those in power is certainly a relevant throughline. Those details kept me engaged. The first three chapters had me hooked and I thought I would be recommending this to my book club. However, as I got further into the book I noticed a lot of redundancies. I didn't care for the main character's descriptive details (twisting her ring, picking at her cuticles) that seemed to be mentioned in every chapter without ever becoming part of the storyline. Why did those details deserve that much attention if they weren't going to become something important? The typos also distracted me as a reader. Overall, I enjoyed this easy read (about three hours). I can't whole heartedly recommend, however.
August 29, 2025
ARC review
PUB date 09.09.25
Single mom Liv, and her daughter Piper move to a new town after a messy divorce.. they’re trying to start their new life, but almost immediately Liv is rubbed the wrong way by the principal/superintendent at Piper’s school. She is placed on a “problem list” and goes into a deep dive of people in the past who were wronged by them, and is determined to unlock the dark truth about the people who have power in the town.
I wasn’t immediately hooked to the story, but it was a fairly quick read. It starts immediately at the board meeting- not much backstory on Liv/Piper before they got to the town. I would have liked a bit more in the beginning … and then from there it was pretty fast paced to the end, but some questions were left unanswered. Overall, and quick easy thriller, but not one I’ll recommend too much.
Thanks to Blackstone Publishing for my #gifted arc
PUB date 09.09.25
Single mom Liv, and her daughter Piper move to a new town after a messy divorce.. they’re trying to start their new life, but almost immediately Liv is rubbed the wrong way by the principal/superintendent at Piper’s school. She is placed on a “problem list” and goes into a deep dive of people in the past who were wronged by them, and is determined to unlock the dark truth about the people who have power in the town.
I wasn’t immediately hooked to the story, but it was a fairly quick read. It starts immediately at the board meeting- not much backstory on Liv/Piper before they got to the town. I would have liked a bit more in the beginning … and then from there it was pretty fast paced to the end, but some questions were left unanswered. Overall, and quick easy thriller, but not one I’ll recommend too much.
Thanks to Blackstone Publishing for my #gifted arc
September 27, 2025
Perfectly encapsulates the feeling of a New England small-town fall: excessive coffee consumption, cats, the scent of decaying leaves, damp, chilly air, and time spent with loved ones, wrapped up in a warm blanket in the comfort of your home. There was a contrast of cozy atmospheres and ominous, gloomy nights as the main character investigates the hidden school board secrets of her daughter’s school.
This book also has unique experiences that come from the heart, where you feel like the author has let you into a secret place of their own. There are special characters who are strong-willed, supportive, and love deeply. This book is expressive, passionate, and perfect for people who live in a northern, rural state.
This book also has unique experiences that come from the heart, where you feel like the author has let you into a secret place of their own. There are special characters who are strong-willed, supportive, and love deeply. This book is expressive, passionate, and perfect for people who live in a northern, rural state.
November 21, 2025
This one was different than I thought it would be. I really enjoyed how fast paced this one was and it all flowed really well. Her writing style is great! This was more of a dark academia mystery to me than a true thriller, which is what I was going into thinking it was. I really enjoyed the book and the last 40 pages were very fast and thrilling! It wraps everything up really well and you get good closure, which we love!
It does definitely have strong underlying themes of very relevant concerns and actions that face women. While the story itself takes place, the main character is her own story in a way. I appreciate her growth and journey throughout this one, even if I wanted to scream at her a few times! I would definitely read more from this author!
It does definitely have strong underlying themes of very relevant concerns and actions that face women. While the story itself takes place, the main character is her own story in a way. I appreciate her growth and journey throughout this one, even if I wanted to scream at her a few times! I would definitely read more from this author!
September 29, 2025
Received ARC for review.
We’ve all been there: silenced at a meeting, made to feel like we are trespassing in our own homes, our leaders appearing more like prison wardens than trusted figures. It’s that universal touch that makes readers both cringe and root for the heroin in the first scenes of Farber’s timely story.
A propulsive and relevant suspense, this page-turner packs a punch, developing several themes around misogyny, parental responsibility, corruption, and education, somehow tying them all together in a seamless, easy read.
Read in a few days. Great for a beach or a cozy couch by a fall fire—but keep the lights on or you may not sleep.
We’ve all been there: silenced at a meeting, made to feel like we are trespassing in our own homes, our leaders appearing more like prison wardens than trusted figures. It’s that universal touch that makes readers both cringe and root for the heroin in the first scenes of Farber’s timely story.
A propulsive and relevant suspense, this page-turner packs a punch, developing several themes around misogyny, parental responsibility, corruption, and education, somehow tying them all together in a seamless, easy read.
Read in a few days. Great for a beach or a cozy couch by a fall fire—but keep the lights on or you may not sleep.
October 7, 2025
I wish I could give this more stars. I enjoyed the premise of the story, but the execution wasn't very good.
Again, we have "armchair mystery solvers" that put themselves in danger, don't think rationally, and think they have to solve every mystery by themselves. I am just so over it. Give me realistic and believable any day. Then of course, we have the female version of McGiver...on steroids. There were also a lot of inconsistencies in the story.
It's not this author, but give me something good. Make me think. Make me want to solve the mystery, instead of some half assed "armchair detective".
Again, we have "armchair mystery solvers" that put themselves in danger, don't think rationally, and think they have to solve every mystery by themselves. I am just so over it. Give me realistic and believable any day. Then of course, we have the female version of McGiver...on steroids. There were also a lot of inconsistencies in the story.
It's not this author, but give me something good. Make me think. Make me want to solve the mystery, instead of some half assed "armchair detective".
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