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A Killer in the Family
A thrilling, intoxicating mystery set among New York City’s most elite residents, for fans of
My Sister, The Serial Killer
and
The Age of Vice
When Ali Azeem, a naïve Muslim bachelor from Mumbai, agrees to a traditional arranged marriage with pretty, reserved Maryam Khan, he thinks he has hit the she is the daughter of Abbas Khan, a self-made real estate tycoon and one of the richest men in New York City. After the wedding, the couple moves to America, and Ali quickly enters an intoxicating Gatsby-esque world of supertall skyscrapers, sumptuous clothing, and helicopter rides to the sprawling family property in Southampton. However, shortly after the newlyweds move into a luxury apartment in the center of New York City, he receives a warning from Maryam’s older sister, Farhan, a mercurial divorcee. Farhan claims their father is an amoral monster and a dark secret lies at the heart of his accomplishments.
But can Farhan be trusted? She is a rebellious outsider and, according to Maryam, an unstable liar. Unsure which sister to believe, Ali launches his own amateur investigation into the Khans and quickly discovers a possible connection to a serial killer. However, as the newly minted husband of Abbas’ favorite daughter, Ali has an open invitation to join Tiger Corp., the family’s empire. But before he commits, Ali struggles to determine who the Khans really The embodiment of the American dream—or a clan of cutthroat one-percenters out for themselves? As allegiances shift and crumble between Ali and those vying for a chance to take over Tiger Corp., he is forced to question everything he believes about family and loyalty. When the truth is finally revealed, Ali must ask himself if he can pay the price unimaginable wealth demands.
From the streets of Mumbai to the upper echelons of Manhattan to old haunts in Queens, A Killer in the Family is an unforgettable portrait of a family in the form of a page-turner. Exploring themes of immigrant achievement, family secrets, and the power of the one percent, A Killer in the Family is a riveting novel that will have listeners second-guessing every member of the Khan family until its shocking end.
When Ali Azeem, a naïve Muslim bachelor from Mumbai, agrees to a traditional arranged marriage with pretty, reserved Maryam Khan, he thinks he has hit the she is the daughter of Abbas Khan, a self-made real estate tycoon and one of the richest men in New York City. After the wedding, the couple moves to America, and Ali quickly enters an intoxicating Gatsby-esque world of supertall skyscrapers, sumptuous clothing, and helicopter rides to the sprawling family property in Southampton. However, shortly after the newlyweds move into a luxury apartment in the center of New York City, he receives a warning from Maryam’s older sister, Farhan, a mercurial divorcee. Farhan claims their father is an amoral monster and a dark secret lies at the heart of his accomplishments.
But can Farhan be trusted? She is a rebellious outsider and, according to Maryam, an unstable liar. Unsure which sister to believe, Ali launches his own amateur investigation into the Khans and quickly discovers a possible connection to a serial killer. However, as the newly minted husband of Abbas’ favorite daughter, Ali has an open invitation to join Tiger Corp., the family’s empire. But before he commits, Ali struggles to determine who the Khans really The embodiment of the American dream—or a clan of cutthroat one-percenters out for themselves? As allegiances shift and crumble between Ali and those vying for a chance to take over Tiger Corp., he is forced to question everything he believes about family and loyalty. When the truth is finally revealed, Ali must ask himself if he can pay the price unimaginable wealth demands.
From the streets of Mumbai to the upper echelons of Manhattan to old haunts in Queens, A Killer in the Family is an unforgettable portrait of a family in the form of a page-turner. Exploring themes of immigrant achievement, family secrets, and the power of the one percent, A Killer in the Family is a riveting novel that will have listeners second-guessing every member of the Khan family until its shocking end.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published April 7, 2026
101 people are currently reading
19984 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
February 21, 2026
This book explores nature versus nurture, sibling and parental dynamics, and marriage, all within a wealthy New York family built on secrets, lies, and possible murder. It started strong with a unique setup and vivid setting, pulling me in with its toxic relationships, manipulation, and power struggles, even if pretty much everyone kind of sucks in a way that works for the story. The shifting tones and uneven pacing kept it from feeling fully cohesive, but it’s still a solid, intriguing family drama. STARS: 3.5
April 30, 2026
This is a very slow-burning family drama and not much of a thriller. I was never really able to connect with any of the characters and never felt engaged with the story. I almost didn't finish the book, but I decided to persevere. My rating is three stars instead of two because the narration was well done and added intensity to the plot. I am not saying the story isn't interesting, it just wasn't very intriguing for me. Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, for my audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book is a gripping tale of power, family drama and secrets, murder and mystery! There is something about the rich and powerful, especially set in NYC, that I find intoxicating. Books that revolve around that are always rife with drama, scandal and secrets—which I find highly entertaining. The characters are always untrustworthy and a little unhinged. And this book is no exception! I also enjoyed the cultural aspect of this being an Indian family. I have to tell you, I find arranged marriage fascinating. Not in a judgmental way, sometimes I think it’s probably a lot easier!!!
Ali enters an arranged marriage with Maryam, daughter of Abbas Khan, one of the richest and most powerful men in New York City. But he receives a warning from Maryam’s unstable and black sheep of the family sister. What unfolds is just such an entertaining story! Can Ali really trust anyone in the upper echelons of NYC?
We touch upon immigrant achievement, mental health and mental health being treated as a scapegoat to dismiss someone, family secrets, and the power of the top percent. The ending had me cackling.
Thank you to Henry Holt and Co. for the gifted ARC! Book releases 4/7/26.
Ali enters an arranged marriage with Maryam, daughter of Abbas Khan, one of the richest and most powerful men in New York City. But he receives a warning from Maryam’s unstable and black sheep of the family sister. What unfolds is just such an entertaining story! Can Ali really trust anyone in the upper echelons of NYC?
We touch upon immigrant achievement, mental health and mental health being treated as a scapegoat to dismiss someone, family secrets, and the power of the top percent. The ending had me cackling.
Thank you to Henry Holt and Co. for the gifted ARC! Book releases 4/7/26.
January 6, 2026
Okay, so I still don’t have a good idea of what I feel about this book. The writing was great, had me keep picking it up to read more, see where it was going… but it just didn’t really connect me enough with the characters to make me care about what was happening to them. Fantastic storytelling, would recommend. Not my favorite. But keeping an eye out for this author in the future. 👀
Thanks to the publishers and author for an ARC from goodreads giveaways.
Thanks to the publishers and author for an ARC from goodreads giveaways.
January 26, 2026
I really didn’t enjoy the pacing of this thriller. Took forever to get to a ‘twist’ or even to build up some suspense. Felt like the focus was the world building/family dynamic and personality building and NOT the actually thriller plot line.
The first major twist was kinda glossed over and the rest was kind of lack luster. Didn’t enjoy the ending either:(
Also the main character was so unbelievably insufferable I could barely finish this book. I will say it was likely intentional so props to the author for evoking such strong feelings but gahdamn.
The first major twist was kinda glossed over and the rest was kind of lack luster. Didn’t enjoy the ending either:(
Also the main character was so unbelievably insufferable I could barely finish this book. I will say it was likely intentional so props to the author for evoking such strong feelings but gahdamn.
January 11, 2026
Oh my gosh the family drama in this one!!!! It was a pretty interesting look into an Indian families life and the pressures that a lot of kids might feel in that family. It was also full of twists and turns and a lot of it I didn’t see coming. At first I saw the length of the book and worried it would drag and have some added fluff that was not needed but thankfully I was wrong! This book took me a day to finish so that tells you something!
April 9, 2026
The cover grabbed me fast, and the description clinched it. I expected a fierce, dark mystery, and the setup nails it.
Huge thanks to the author and Henry Holt/Macmillan Audio for the #GiftedARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Let’s kick off with the wins:
The multiple narrators? Loved.
The multicast audiobook? Excellent across the board.
The premise? Right up my alley.
And the ending actually landed for me, which doesn’t always happen in a slow‑burn mystery.
But then, things started to go off the rails:
The pacing dragged. I can appreciate a slow burn when it ratchets up suspense, but here it felt like the story was treading water just to fill space. Normally, I’m all for unlikable characters making a mess, but these ones? I just couldn’t stand them.
And the middle of the book dragged for me. I couldn’t stay focused. I kept thinking, chop chop!
Killer idea, killer narration, killer ending. But the mid-book drag? It killed my vibe. As always, take my review with a grain of salt—plenty of others loved it.
Huge thanks to the author and Henry Holt/Macmillan Audio for the #GiftedARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Let’s kick off with the wins:
The multiple narrators? Loved.
The multicast audiobook? Excellent across the board.
The premise? Right up my alley.
And the ending actually landed for me, which doesn’t always happen in a slow‑burn mystery.
But then, things started to go off the rails:
The pacing dragged. I can appreciate a slow burn when it ratchets up suspense, but here it felt like the story was treading water just to fill space. Normally, I’m all for unlikable characters making a mess, but these ones? I just couldn’t stand them.
And the middle of the book dragged for me. I couldn’t stay focused. I kept thinking, chop chop!
Killer idea, killer narration, killer ending. But the mid-book drag? It killed my vibe. As always, take my review with a grain of salt—plenty of others loved it.
February 25, 2026
Reading Journal Details
Book: A Killer in the Family by Amin Ahmad
Format Read: Audiobook (11 hours 46 minutes)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Quick Take
A richly atmospheric family thriller elevated by strong narration and flashes of brilliance, but its slow burn never fully sparks into the gripping read it sets up.
Full Review
This is one of those thrillers where the ingredients are undeniably strong. Wealth. Power. Arranged marriage politics. A morally gray billionaire dynasty split between Mumbai and New York City. On paper, it absolutely hums with potential.
And at times? It does deliver.
The cultural specificity and setting are deeply felt highlights. The Mumbai and New York City backdrops, the tension between modernity and tradition, and the layered family dynamics give the story a textured weight that feels immersive and intentional.
The arranged marriage framework isn’t just window dressing; it actively shapes the ethical and emotional conflicts festering beneath the surface. That richness kept me invested even when the plot momentum wavered.
Because ultimately, pacing was the deciding factor for me.
The middle section drags. Not in a “poorly written” manner, but in a way that dampens propulsion that should have been building. The tension never quite sustains itself long enough to tip into that edge-of-your-seat territory I crave like candy in a thriller.
Instead of escalation, the story plateaus. Instead of tightening, it lingers like ghosts with unspoken words. And that lingering softens what should have been sharper.
The twists are competent; they function. But they didn’t destabilize me. I often felt a beat ahead of the narrative, which undercut the adrenaline factor.
When I’m not surprised, I need intensity to compensate, but here the intensity never fully ignited—the Looney Tunes Acme bomb visible, but the fuse never lit.
That said, the audiobook performance deserves significant praise. The alternating POV narration added fluidity and engagement that likely elevated my experience. The voice work carried emotional nuance and made transitions seamless. This is absolutely a story that benefits from being heard.
There are scenes that will linger with me. Certain confrontations and power plays hit exactly as intended. The ambition behind the themes—wealth, loyalty, corruption, and family obligation—is clear and admirable.
But as a thriller reader who thrives on escalation, propulsion, unexpected twists, and taut prose, I needed more lift in the back half. More ignition. More pulse.
This lands as a solid three-star read for me: layered, atmospheric, and thoughtfully constructed, just not quite electric.
Advance Copy Provided By
Thank you Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advance copy. The narration and production quality brought welcome dynamism to an already textured and culturally rich narrative.
Book: A Killer in the Family by Amin Ahmad
Format Read: Audiobook (11 hours 46 minutes)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Quick Take
A richly atmospheric family thriller elevated by strong narration and flashes of brilliance, but its slow burn never fully sparks into the gripping read it sets up.
Full Review
This is one of those thrillers where the ingredients are undeniably strong. Wealth. Power. Arranged marriage politics. A morally gray billionaire dynasty split between Mumbai and New York City. On paper, it absolutely hums with potential.
And at times? It does deliver.
The cultural specificity and setting are deeply felt highlights. The Mumbai and New York City backdrops, the tension between modernity and tradition, and the layered family dynamics give the story a textured weight that feels immersive and intentional.
The arranged marriage framework isn’t just window dressing; it actively shapes the ethical and emotional conflicts festering beneath the surface. That richness kept me invested even when the plot momentum wavered.
Because ultimately, pacing was the deciding factor for me.
The middle section drags. Not in a “poorly written” manner, but in a way that dampens propulsion that should have been building. The tension never quite sustains itself long enough to tip into that edge-of-your-seat territory I crave like candy in a thriller.
Instead of escalation, the story plateaus. Instead of tightening, it lingers like ghosts with unspoken words. And that lingering softens what should have been sharper.
The twists are competent; they function. But they didn’t destabilize me. I often felt a beat ahead of the narrative, which undercut the adrenaline factor.
When I’m not surprised, I need intensity to compensate, but here the intensity never fully ignited—the Looney Tunes Acme bomb visible, but the fuse never lit.
That said, the audiobook performance deserves significant praise. The alternating POV narration added fluidity and engagement that likely elevated my experience. The voice work carried emotional nuance and made transitions seamless. This is absolutely a story that benefits from being heard.
There are scenes that will linger with me. Certain confrontations and power plays hit exactly as intended. The ambition behind the themes—wealth, loyalty, corruption, and family obligation—is clear and admirable.
But as a thriller reader who thrives on escalation, propulsion, unexpected twists, and taut prose, I needed more lift in the back half. More ignition. More pulse.
This lands as a solid three-star read for me: layered, atmospheric, and thoughtfully constructed, just not quite electric.
Advance Copy Provided By
Thank you Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the advance copy. The narration and production quality brought welcome dynamism to an already textured and culturally rich narrative.
August 23, 2025
This book completely pulled me in from start to finish. Ali Azeem’s journey from naive newlywed to someone caught in the glittering but dangerous world of the Khan family was fascinating. The blend of wealth, glamour, and dark secrets gave this story a cinematic, almost Gatsby-meets-thriller vibe that I couldn’t put down.
What I loved most was the way the suspense built gradually — I found myself questioning every character’s motives and never knowing who to trust. The family dynamics, power struggles, and morally gray choices kept me turning the pages late into the night. By the end, the twists had me rethinking everything I thought I knew about the Khans.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A sharp, addictive, and unputdownable thriller about power, family, and the hidden cost of wealth. Highly recommend if you enjoy suspenseful stories filled with secrets and shocking revelations.
What I Learned:
This story really highlights that appearances can be deceiving, and the “dream life” often comes with hidden costs. It made me think about how power, wealth, and family loyalty can blur the lines between truth and lies — and how important it is to trust your instincts even when the glitter is tempting.
Huge thanks to @netgalley, the publisher, and Amin Ahmad for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
What I loved most was the way the suspense built gradually — I found myself questioning every character’s motives and never knowing who to trust. The family dynamics, power struggles, and morally gray choices kept me turning the pages late into the night. By the end, the twists had me rethinking everything I thought I knew about the Khans.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A sharp, addictive, and unputdownable thriller about power, family, and the hidden cost of wealth. Highly recommend if you enjoy suspenseful stories filled with secrets and shocking revelations.
What I Learned:
This story really highlights that appearances can be deceiving, and the “dream life” often comes with hidden costs. It made me think about how power, wealth, and family loyalty can blur the lines between truth and lies — and how important it is to trust your instincts even when the glitter is tempting.
Huge thanks to @netgalley, the publisher, and Amin Ahmad for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️
A Killer in the Family was a bit slow at times, but wow—what a story. The way information is revealed is incredibly twisty, and there were definitely aspects I did not see coming. As the layers peel back, the book becomes more gripping and emotionally complex.
It’s a compelling exploration of nature versus nurture, sibling dynamics, parental relationships, and marriage. One of the most striking takeaways is how clearly the story shows that people often only see what they want to see about us—and what we’re willing to let them see.
Trigger warnings: references to self-harm, rape, and serial killings.
Despite the slower moments, this is a powerful, thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impression.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to preread and review this book.
A Killer in the Family was a bit slow at times, but wow—what a story. The way information is revealed is incredibly twisty, and there were definitely aspects I did not see coming. As the layers peel back, the book becomes more gripping and emotionally complex.
It’s a compelling exploration of nature versus nurture, sibling dynamics, parental relationships, and marriage. One of the most striking takeaways is how clearly the story shows that people often only see what they want to see about us—and what we’re willing to let them see.
Trigger warnings: references to self-harm, rape, and serial killings.
Despite the slower moments, this is a powerful, thought-provoking read that leaves a lasting impression.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to preread and review this book.
April 7, 2026
3.5
I received this as a Goodreads Giveaway ARC. The family dynamics were interesting and well done, and the slow burn kept it engaging, but it never quite reached unputdownable for me. Overall, an entertaining read.
I received this as a Goodreads Giveaway ARC. The family dynamics were interesting and well done, and the slow burn kept it engaging, but it never quite reached unputdownable for me. Overall, an entertaining read.
March 19, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
January 16, 2026
Firstly thank you for this ARC from the Goodreads Giveaways. Was thrilled to receive my copy.
This book was really good. I loved the descriptions of both Mumbai and New York. Many suspenseful twists and turns that I did not see coming. Loved the characters and how they interacted. Was suspicious of everyone at one point or another. Really enjoyed how the conclusion wrapped tied everything up nicely. Was hard to put down. Recommended read!!
This book was really good. I loved the descriptions of both Mumbai and New York. Many suspenseful twists and turns that I did not see coming. Loved the characters and how they interacted. Was suspicious of everyone at one point or another. Really enjoyed how the conclusion wrapped tied everything up nicely. Was hard to put down. Recommended read!!
Did Not Finish
March 25, 2026This just isn't the right book for me.
Pacing is sluggish.
The characters are all unlikable, which is always a problem for me.
The writing style didn't hook me.
I won't do myself or the author any favors by finishing.
DNF at 20%
*Thanks to Macmillan Audio (#MacAudio2026) for the free download!*
Pacing is sluggish.
The characters are all unlikable, which is always a problem for me.
The writing style didn't hook me.
I won't do myself or the author any favors by finishing.
DNF at 20%
*Thanks to Macmillan Audio (#MacAudio2026) for the free download!*
January 10, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
A Killer in the Family by Amin Ahmed is a gripping story centered on Ali and his marriage into the powerful and wealthy Khan family, where nothing is quite as perfect as it seems. The plot weaves together a compelling love triangle, intense family drama, and a suspenseful search for a killer that kept me fully engaged. I especially enjoyed the audiobook. I would definitely recommend this book, especially in audiobook format, to fans of family thrillers and dramatic mysteries.
A Killer in the Family by Amin Ahmed is a gripping story centered on Ali and his marriage into the powerful and wealthy Khan family, where nothing is quite as perfect as it seems. The plot weaves together a compelling love triangle, intense family drama, and a suspenseful search for a killer that kept me fully engaged. I especially enjoyed the audiobook. I would definitely recommend this book, especially in audiobook format, to fans of family thrillers and dramatic mysteries.
September 15, 2025
Parts of this book were really interesting and exciting, but the vast majority felt slow and scattered. The two averaged out to a 3 star review from me
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 1, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy of this book through a Goodreads giveaway.
The book is marketed as a mystery thriller with crime and family drama subgenres, but in my opinion, it leans much more heavily into family drama and crime mystery rather than thriller.
Knowing that the book was split into four parts, I expected a slow burn in Part 1 that would gradually build in tension, especially in Parts 2, 3, and 4. The pace picked up slightly in part 2, but overall, the pacing remained fairly consistent throughout. Because of that, I feel like Parts 2 and 3, at the very least, could have been combined. The pacing and timeframes felt similar enough that the separation didn’t seem necessary.
Looking back, I feel like the prologue was somewhat unnecessary. It seemed to be included primarily as a hook to draw readers in, which I personally think should be done through the synopsis. The prologue also gave me the impression that the book would lean more heavily into thriller elements than it did.
That being said, I did enjoy the writing style, and I enjoyed the book overall. I’d still be open to reading more from this author in the future.
The book is marketed as a mystery thriller with crime and family drama subgenres, but in my opinion, it leans much more heavily into family drama and crime mystery rather than thriller.
Knowing that the book was split into four parts, I expected a slow burn in Part 1 that would gradually build in tension, especially in Parts 2, 3, and 4. The pace picked up slightly in part 2, but overall, the pacing remained fairly consistent throughout. Because of that, I feel like Parts 2 and 3, at the very least, could have been combined. The pacing and timeframes felt similar enough that the separation didn’t seem necessary.
Looking back, I feel like the prologue was somewhat unnecessary. It seemed to be included primarily as a hook to draw readers in, which I personally think should be done through the synopsis. The prologue also gave me the impression that the book would lean more heavily into thriller elements than it did.
That being said, I did enjoy the writing style, and I enjoyed the book overall. I’d still be open to reading more from this author in the future.
April 27, 2026
The opening chapter was a killer! I had to know more.
Then the next chapters dragged. Ahmad introduced the characters—Ali in India, his arranged marriage to Maryam, his first meeting with the wealthy Khan family. It felt like a lot of setup, and I was losing interest.
Once I got past that, things got really interesting. Affairs, family secrets hidden for years, and a serial killer. I don't know how the author did it, but he tied everything together.
Told through Ali's POV and Farhan's journals, both narrators were unlikable but compelling. Ali was indecisive, easy to persuade, and frustrated me at times. Farhan, Maryam's black sheep sister, was unpredictable. I never knew if she was lying, which kept me paying close attention to her journal entries. Despite disliking both, I couldn't help rooting for Ali.
The family dynamics touched on arranged marriage, patriarchy, caste, and class. The twist at the end was unexpected.
Audiobook experience: The full cast narration, Isuri Wijesundara, Lipica Shah, and Vikas Adam, was binge-worthy. It added authenticity, kept the pacing tight, and brought each character to life. From the audiobook, I truly didn't like Farhan.
A bumpy start, but the payoff - family dynamics, serial killer connections, and stellar audio made it worthwhile.
Thanks to Henry Holt for the advance copy. The audiobook is my personal purchase.
Then the next chapters dragged. Ahmad introduced the characters—Ali in India, his arranged marriage to Maryam, his first meeting with the wealthy Khan family. It felt like a lot of setup, and I was losing interest.
Once I got past that, things got really interesting. Affairs, family secrets hidden for years, and a serial killer. I don't know how the author did it, but he tied everything together.
Told through Ali's POV and Farhan's journals, both narrators were unlikable but compelling. Ali was indecisive, easy to persuade, and frustrated me at times. Farhan, Maryam's black sheep sister, was unpredictable. I never knew if she was lying, which kept me paying close attention to her journal entries. Despite disliking both, I couldn't help rooting for Ali.
The family dynamics touched on arranged marriage, patriarchy, caste, and class. The twist at the end was unexpected.
Audiobook experience: The full cast narration, Isuri Wijesundara, Lipica Shah, and Vikas Adam, was binge-worthy. It added authenticity, kept the pacing tight, and brought each character to life. From the audiobook, I truly didn't like Farhan.
A bumpy start, but the payoff - family dynamics, serial killer connections, and stellar audio made it worthwhile.
Thanks to Henry Holt for the advance copy. The audiobook is my personal purchase.
April 28, 2026
@henryholtbooks #partner
I’m really showing my age when I say this, but when I was a kid, in the summertime, I remember watching what I considered scary movies like Alfred Hitchcock and Vincent Price movies. There was something about the mysterious, suspenseful vibe, combined with the late, hot summer nights I associate with. As the weather is warming up, I’m reading more mysteries, thrillers, and suspense books. Amin Ahmad’s A K!ller in the Family fits this vibe.
Author Amin Ahmad cleverly delivers a story that, by the end, I had to flip back—re-read the last 2 pages slowly, just in case I missed it — and go, yep, that’s what it said. And I thought about this one for the rest of the day, rehashing several scenes that I remembered. I said to myself, that was foreshadowing! How could I have missed that! This is one book that made me wish I were in a book club or had buddy read with someone. There’s so much to discuss.
A K!ller in the Family is one you don’t want to pass up, and Author Amin Ahmad is definitely someone to keep an eye out for more.
Thank you to Henry Holt and Author Amin Ahmad for the #gifted copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m really showing my age when I say this, but when I was a kid, in the summertime, I remember watching what I considered scary movies like Alfred Hitchcock and Vincent Price movies. There was something about the mysterious, suspenseful vibe, combined with the late, hot summer nights I associate with. As the weather is warming up, I’m reading more mysteries, thrillers, and suspense books. Amin Ahmad’s A K!ller in the Family fits this vibe.
Author Amin Ahmad cleverly delivers a story that, by the end, I had to flip back—re-read the last 2 pages slowly, just in case I missed it — and go, yep, that’s what it said. And I thought about this one for the rest of the day, rehashing several scenes that I remembered. I said to myself, that was foreshadowing! How could I have missed that! This is one book that made me wish I were in a book club or had buddy read with someone. There’s so much to discuss.
A K!ller in the Family is one you don’t want to pass up, and Author Amin Ahmad is definitely someone to keep an eye out for more.
Thank you to Henry Holt and Author Amin Ahmad for the #gifted copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 26, 2026
I would like to thank the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of A Killer in the Family in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really good and kept me interested throughout. A big focus is on family dynamics, especially within a wealthy family full of toxic relationships. It was interesting getting to know each character and uncovering all the small but very intentional behaviors that made the family so dysfunctional.
Pretty much everyone in this book kind of sucks, but in a way that works for the story. Watching all the manipulation, secrets, and power struggles unfold made the plot engaging, even when the characters themselves were not likable. I enjoyed seeing how the family history and relationships played into the overall mystery.
Overall, this was a solid read with strong character drama and an intriguing family dynamic. I would give it three and a half stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
This book was really good and kept me interested throughout. A big focus is on family dynamics, especially within a wealthy family full of toxic relationships. It was interesting getting to know each character and uncovering all the small but very intentional behaviors that made the family so dysfunctional.
Pretty much everyone in this book kind of sucks, but in a way that works for the story. Watching all the manipulation, secrets, and power struggles unfold made the plot engaging, even when the characters themselves were not likable. I enjoyed seeing how the family history and relationships played into the overall mystery.
Overall, this was a solid read with strong character drama and an intriguing family dynamic. I would give it three and a half stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️½
April 2, 2026
3.5/5
Going into this book I truly didn’t know what to expect. As I listened I was like where is this going because it is a slow paced book. I felt as though it was more a literary book with a dash of mystery to it. However, what got me to continue listening to this book is the drama in the family that happens. It keeps you wondering ooh what’s going to happen if this gets out and stuff. Which made me enjoy it a bit. I liked how it was Indian based. You can tell the author bought into some life stories and things they experienced. You get to understand the culture a bit which was enjoyable. I’m glad it was based on a wealthy Indian family to show that you can be anyone and be rich but a dark side to it happens. I very much enjoyed listening to the different narrators thoughout the audiobook as well. It kept the story interesting. Thank you to Macmillan audio and StoryGraph not only for the arc but as well as picking me as one of the giveaway winners. This book is available on April 7, 2026.
Going into this book I truly didn’t know what to expect. As I listened I was like where is this going because it is a slow paced book. I felt as though it was more a literary book with a dash of mystery to it. However, what got me to continue listening to this book is the drama in the family that happens. It keeps you wondering ooh what’s going to happen if this gets out and stuff. Which made me enjoy it a bit. I liked how it was Indian based. You can tell the author bought into some life stories and things they experienced. You get to understand the culture a bit which was enjoyable. I’m glad it was based on a wealthy Indian family to show that you can be anyone and be rich but a dark side to it happens. I very much enjoyed listening to the different narrators thoughout the audiobook as well. It kept the story interesting. Thank you to Macmillan audio and StoryGraph not only for the arc but as well as picking me as one of the giveaway winners. This book is available on April 7, 2026.
November 16, 2025
“A Killer in the Family” by Amin Ahmad is a layered psychological thriller that hooked me right away. It’s emotionally tense and unpredictable, with complex flawed characters each carrying secrets that unravel with shocking precision.
The story revolves around a bachelor from Mumbai who enters into an arranged marriage with the daughter of a powerful real estate tycoon. He moves to NY and quickly becomes swept up in the excessive lifestyle while being groomed to enter into the family business. As he becomes more involved with his new family he learns the patriarch may be hiding a deadly secret connected to a serial killer thought to be long gone.
This is a chilling exploration of moral compromise, the seductive pull of power, and highly dysfunctional families. A provocative debut novel I throughly enjoyed!
Thank you NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The story revolves around a bachelor from Mumbai who enters into an arranged marriage with the daughter of a powerful real estate tycoon. He moves to NY and quickly becomes swept up in the excessive lifestyle while being groomed to enter into the family business. As he becomes more involved with his new family he learns the patriarch may be hiding a deadly secret connected to a serial killer thought to be long gone.
This is a chilling exploration of moral compromise, the seductive pull of power, and highly dysfunctional families. A provocative debut novel I throughly enjoyed!
Thank you NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 23, 2026
I found this novel quite entertaining, and the book title was spot on (it got you to keep guessing and the author didn’t disappoint in this aspect).
The story began in Mumbai and then quickly shifted to New York. It offered Indian-Muslim cultural references (e.g., arranged marriage), privileges and the lives of the rich and powerful, dark secrets and family feuds, strong characters… all written in a rather engaging style.
Despite the captivating beginning, the pace started to drag a third way into the story. As the plot thickened, I felt like I was bombarded by one twist after another… as if the author wanted to keep challenging the reader, “Oh, you think A’s personality is bad? Wait till you see what I make B do. I promise you, C’s turn is coming. Don’t get fooled by D’s charm because…”
In fairness, the puzzle pieces fit (eventually), but to me they lacked cohesion.
Many thanks for the ARC I received in a Goodreads giveaway. Publication date: April 7, 2026.
The story began in Mumbai and then quickly shifted to New York. It offered Indian-Muslim cultural references (e.g., arranged marriage), privileges and the lives of the rich and powerful, dark secrets and family feuds, strong characters… all written in a rather engaging style.
Despite the captivating beginning, the pace started to drag a third way into the story. As the plot thickened, I felt like I was bombarded by one twist after another… as if the author wanted to keep challenging the reader, “Oh, you think A’s personality is bad? Wait till you see what I make B do. I promise you, C’s turn is coming. Don’t get fooled by D’s charm because…”
In fairness, the puzzle pieces fit (eventually), but to me they lacked cohesion.
Many thanks for the ARC I received in a Goodreads giveaway. Publication date: April 7, 2026.
April 2, 2026
This was truly a 3.5 star read and for the first 60% of the book I thought it might be a 5 star read. The start was amazing and had me gripped and continuing to turn the pages. Then the storylines felt like they began to stall out. Some of the reveals were great and others were just meh. Overall I liked the characters and the rich Indian family aspect. I liked writing and would read more by this author but this book lost me at around the 70% mark and definitely would have been a more solid ending at the 85% mark.
Thank you NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for an early e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Henry Holt & Company for an early e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2026
First, I am a little late in posting this review. My apologies for that.
I can honestly say this was close to a DNF for me at about 70% into the book. Let me explain.
1. I found the story very intriguing, but after a while it was like.... and.....
2. It felt like a lot of story with only a little to it.
but
All of the context was necessary. There is a lot that I needed to know culturally that I wouldn't have understood otherwise.
HOWEVER
I feel like it hits that odd spot of being like it could have been shorter and more precise, or, longer and more complex and a more woven tale.
So this is really a 3.5 ⭐⭐⭐ upgraded to 4 because I think it was well done, but something was missing- for me.
I would just like to add my disclaimer: I think authors are amazing. My reviews probably tend to be a little more grace giving because I think, at the end of the day, we're all human.
Big thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC of this book. All my opinions are my own.
I can honestly say this was close to a DNF for me at about 70% into the book. Let me explain.
1. I found the story very intriguing, but after a while it was like.... and.....
2. It felt like a lot of story with only a little to it.
but
All of the context was necessary. There is a lot that I needed to know culturally that I wouldn't have understood otherwise.
HOWEVER
I feel like it hits that odd spot of being like it could have been shorter and more precise, or, longer and more complex and a more woven tale.
So this is really a 3.5 ⭐⭐⭐ upgraded to 4 because I think it was well done, but something was missing- for me.
I would just like to add my disclaimer: I think authors are amazing. My reviews probably tend to be a little more grace giving because I think, at the end of the day, we're all human.
Big thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC of this book. All my opinions are my own.
January 12, 2026
This one had parts that I was sucked into and parts that felt a little slow for me. The narration by Isuri Wijesundara, Lipica Shah, and Vikas Adam was very well done that it kept me interested. Right of the bat the unique set up had me thinking it was a gritty vigilante story, then it shifted into a fast-paced thriller, and later leaned more toward family drama. While some may enjoyed the constant change, I felt that it harder for me to stay fully invested. It also ended up feeling like multiple short stories vs a cohesive story. All in all, this was a decent read, just not a favorite for me.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Did Not Finish
April 8, 2026Audio Arc from NetGalley
DNF 23%
After listening for a couple hours I never grew invested in the story and just wanted something more to happen. The family drama that was happening was not entertaining enough for me to want to continue. This book is a very slow burn, but my opinion that in a 12 hour thriller/suspense audiobook by 20% I should want to continue and it should not feel like a chore.
One of the narrators in this is one of my favorite so I thought he did a good job, but it did not compel me to want to continue.
DNF 23%
After listening for a couple hours I never grew invested in the story and just wanted something more to happen. The family drama that was happening was not entertaining enough for me to want to continue. This book is a very slow burn, but my opinion that in a 12 hour thriller/suspense audiobook by 20% I should want to continue and it should not feel like a chore.
One of the narrators in this is one of my favorite so I thought he did a good job, but it did not compel me to want to continue.
January 18, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for early access to this ARC read. I think some readers will enjoy this book, however it was a bit too slow for me and the overly detailed narration made the story drag.
I read the book and tried the audiobook.
The audiobook narrator had an Indian British accent which was a deterrent for me. I’m Pakistani/Indian and didn’t feel engaged with the accent or the story.
I think others would enjoy it, it just didn’t click for me
I read the book and tried the audiobook.
The audiobook narrator had an Indian British accent which was a deterrent for me. I’m Pakistani/Indian and didn’t feel engaged with the accent or the story.
I think others would enjoy it, it just didn’t click for me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2026
This one kind of fell into the “it was a book,” category for me.
I thought it was going to be more of a thriller, but it was really just about a rich Indian family in the U.S. and the ins and outs of their business and family scandals.
There’s a serial killer in the back drop, but it was really more of a side plot that had kind of an “oh, okay” ending.
Overall, I don’t have anything great or terrible to say about it.
I thought it was going to be more of a thriller, but it was really just about a rich Indian family in the U.S. and the ins and outs of their business and family scandals.
There’s a serial killer in the back drop, but it was really more of a side plot that had kind of an “oh, okay” ending.
Overall, I don’t have anything great or terrible to say about it.
April 8, 2026
Ali and Maryam are in an arranged marriage. Maryam’s father is a wealthy businessman. Ali shortly after meeting Maryam’s sister Farhan, began to have an affair with her. As rumors start to spread about Maryam’s and Farhans father, as being not so great of a father, husband and businessman. Ali is on a mission to uncover the secrets!
Just an okay book, I was not fond of the narrator. The characters annoyed me at points.
Just an okay book, I was not fond of the narrator. The characters annoyed me at points.
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