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What Happens in the Dark
Don't miss the brand-new gripping thriller and courtroom drama full of twists and turns that will keep you up at night!
'An impeccable blend of courtroom drama, mystery thriller and social commentary … a true masterpiece' Andrea Mara
'Timely … Suspenseful and unpredictable' iPaper
'A brilliantly thought-provoking read' Crime Monthly
'The kind of crime fiction that eventually becomes social history' Literary Review
Lily and Safa were best friends growing up. Now, Lily is the nation's favourite breakfast TV presenter and Safa, once a renowned journalist, is reeling from a recent fall from grace.
When news breaks about suspicious bruises on Lily's body, Safa attempts to rekindle their old friendship. But Lily claims the bruises are nothing to worry about.
And then one night the police are called to Lily's home. Lily is strangely calm – and a body lies dead at her feet.
Lily pleads not guilty, and then says nothing more. Driven by her desire to give a voice to all victims, Safa begins her own investigation into what happened that night.
But Safa is not prepared for what her quest for justice will uncover …
'An impeccable blend of courtroom drama, mystery thriller and social commentary … a true masterpiece' Andrea Mara
'Timely … Suspenseful and unpredictable' iPaper
'A brilliantly thought-provoking read' Crime Monthly
'The kind of crime fiction that eventually becomes social history' Literary Review
Lily and Safa were best friends growing up. Now, Lily is the nation's favourite breakfast TV presenter and Safa, once a renowned journalist, is reeling from a recent fall from grace.
When news breaks about suspicious bruises on Lily's body, Safa attempts to rekindle their old friendship. But Lily claims the bruises are nothing to worry about.
And then one night the police are called to Lily's home. Lily is strangely calm – and a body lies dead at her feet.
Lily pleads not guilty, and then says nothing more. Driven by her desire to give a voice to all victims, Safa begins her own investigation into what happened that night.
But Safa is not prepared for what her quest for justice will uncover …
Audible Audio
Published June 19, 2025
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About the author
Kia Abdullah
11 books1,441 followersKia Abdullah is a bestselling author and travel writer. Her novels include Take It Back (a Guardian and Telegraph thriller of the year), Truth Be Told (shortlisted for a Diverse Book Award), Next Of Kin (longlisted for the CWA Gold Dagger Award) and Those People Next Door (a Times Bestseller and Waterstones Thriller of the Month). Her new novel, What Happens in the Dark, is out now.
Kia has won a Diverse Book Award (2022) and a JB Priestley Award for Writers of Promise (2020), and has written for The New York Times, The Guardian, The Financial Times, The Times, The Telegraph and the BBC. She is also the founder of Asian Booklist, a nonprofit that advocates for diversity in publishing.
Website: kiaabdullah.com
Twitter: @kiaabdullah
Instagram: @kiaabdullah
TikTok: @kiawriter
Kia has won a Diverse Book Award (2022) and a JB Priestley Award for Writers of Promise (2020), and has written for The New York Times, The Guardian, The Financial Times, The Times, The Telegraph and the BBC. She is also the founder of Asian Booklist, a nonprofit that advocates for diversity in publishing.
Website: kiaabdullah.com
Twitter: @kiaabdullah
Instagram: @kiaabdullah
TikTok: @kiawriter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
March 4, 2025
*4.5 stars*
Wow, I never saw that coming! But forgive me, I’m getting way ahead of myself, because there was so much to be discovered before I came to that conclusion!
Lily and Safa were best friends growing up, but not so these days. As time passed, Lily no longer replied to Safa’s messages and consequently Safa stopped trying.
Lily is a well loved famous TV presenter, whilst Safa, once an up and coming journalist has had a fall from grace and is presently working for a local rag.
When social media explodes with talk of bruising on Lily’s face, the rumour mongers have a field day. Are there problems in her marriage? What’s going on? Worried about Lily, Safa contacts her to hopefully quash the rumours, and Lily claims the bruises were just a silly accident. However, Safa isn’t convinced and begins her own investigation.
One night shortly after this, the police are called to an incident at Lily’s home. On arrival they find Lily standing over a dead body.
Running concurrently with Lily’s story is that of the ‘Glassman’. The Glassman is entering homes and sexually assaulting elderly women in the Bangladeshi community. This case takes something of a backseat though, mainly because the women affected are reluctant to report the attacks. Would love a follow up to see how this progresses, because Safa is determined to make these women’s voices heard.
Kia Abdullah never shies away from important issues, this time around it’s domestic abuse and sexual assault. This is an immensely thought provoking, powerful, and emotional story but it’s handled with sensitivity. The courtroom scenes are naturally tense, but is the evidence we’re hearing really “ The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth “? Well my lips are sealed, but prepare to be shocked! Definitely recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Wow, I never saw that coming! But forgive me, I’m getting way ahead of myself, because there was so much to be discovered before I came to that conclusion!
Lily and Safa were best friends growing up, but not so these days. As time passed, Lily no longer replied to Safa’s messages and consequently Safa stopped trying.
Lily is a well loved famous TV presenter, whilst Safa, once an up and coming journalist has had a fall from grace and is presently working for a local rag.
When social media explodes with talk of bruising on Lily’s face, the rumour mongers have a field day. Are there problems in her marriage? What’s going on? Worried about Lily, Safa contacts her to hopefully quash the rumours, and Lily claims the bruises were just a silly accident. However, Safa isn’t convinced and begins her own investigation.
One night shortly after this, the police are called to an incident at Lily’s home. On arrival they find Lily standing over a dead body.
Running concurrently with Lily’s story is that of the ‘Glassman’. The Glassman is entering homes and sexually assaulting elderly women in the Bangladeshi community. This case takes something of a backseat though, mainly because the women affected are reluctant to report the attacks. Would love a follow up to see how this progresses, because Safa is determined to make these women’s voices heard.
Kia Abdullah never shies away from important issues, this time around it’s domestic abuse and sexual assault. This is an immensely thought provoking, powerful, and emotional story but it’s handled with sensitivity. The courtroom scenes are naturally tense, but is the evidence we’re hearing really “ The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth “? Well my lips are sealed, but prepare to be shocked! Definitely recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
July 30, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️
BUT I have been left feeling FRUSTRATED !
I have read all of Kia Abdullah’s work-in fact, as soon as one is published, a copy is being shipped to me from Blackwell’s UK because I cannot count on a U.S. Publisher obtaining rights, and I don’t want to wait! She is definitely a favorite author of mine.
And, as usual, I found myself immediately engrossed in the story-this was a book that I COULD NOT WAIT to pick up every chance that I could!
BUT-I feel a bit CHEATED!
I’ll get to that…
Lily Astor is everyone’s favorite breakfast TV presenter, and Safa Saleem is a journalist who lost a prestigious job when she published something without permission. The pair were childhood best friends but as Lily’s star ascended, and Safa’s fell-the two drifted apart.💫
When news breaks about suspicious bruises on Lily’s body, Safa hopes that their history will help her to get the TRUTH from Lily-which could, in turn, help to turn her own career around as well. But, Lily is writing the bruises off as accidental, and nothing to be concerned about.
In the meantime, she is privy to information that a serial rapist called “The Glassman” has been terrorizing elderly, widowed Asian women. These are women who are too ASHAMED to speak to Police, but maybe, they will speak to her, as another Asian woman.
She cannot help but make the connection that both cases revolve around SHAME-and women fearing that they won’t be believed if they speak out-and she would love to write an expose on violence against women-and tie the cases together to give a voice to ALL of the victims.
As she continues to investigate both cases, she finds out that the Police have been called to Lily’s home-someone is dead.
Lily pleads NOT GUILTY, and we move to the courtroom, as the author ALWAYS treats us to a captivating, clever court case, where we will always be SHOCKED by a surprising revelation.
BUT-One of these cases will be left UNRESOLVED as the book ends.
Either we have been left with an ambiguous ending where we must assume what happens in the future-OR-we will have to wait for a sequel, to find out what happens. Sounds like a long time to have to wait for a resolution to a storyline that I became very invested in.
It was a full 5 star read until I was left hanging-I do hope we get a Safa#2 and a satisfying conclusion in a sequel.
VERY SOON.
TW: Rape, Domestic Violence
A buddy read with DeAnn and Mary Beth! Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews! 💞
BUT I have been left feeling FRUSTRATED !
I have read all of Kia Abdullah’s work-in fact, as soon as one is published, a copy is being shipped to me from Blackwell’s UK because I cannot count on a U.S. Publisher obtaining rights, and I don’t want to wait! She is definitely a favorite author of mine.
And, as usual, I found myself immediately engrossed in the story-this was a book that I COULD NOT WAIT to pick up every chance that I could!
BUT-I feel a bit CHEATED!
I’ll get to that…
Lily Astor is everyone’s favorite breakfast TV presenter, and Safa Saleem is a journalist who lost a prestigious job when she published something without permission. The pair were childhood best friends but as Lily’s star ascended, and Safa’s fell-the two drifted apart.💫
When news breaks about suspicious bruises on Lily’s body, Safa hopes that their history will help her to get the TRUTH from Lily-which could, in turn, help to turn her own career around as well. But, Lily is writing the bruises off as accidental, and nothing to be concerned about.
In the meantime, she is privy to information that a serial rapist called “The Glassman” has been terrorizing elderly, widowed Asian women. These are women who are too ASHAMED to speak to Police, but maybe, they will speak to her, as another Asian woman.
She cannot help but make the connection that both cases revolve around SHAME-and women fearing that they won’t be believed if they speak out-and she would love to write an expose on violence against women-and tie the cases together to give a voice to ALL of the victims.
As she continues to investigate both cases, she finds out that the Police have been called to Lily’s home-someone is dead.
Lily pleads NOT GUILTY, and we move to the courtroom, as the author ALWAYS treats us to a captivating, clever court case, where we will always be SHOCKED by a surprising revelation.
BUT-One of these cases will be left UNRESOLVED as the book ends.
Either we have been left with an ambiguous ending where we must assume what happens in the future-OR-we will have to wait for a sequel, to find out what happens. Sounds like a long time to have to wait for a resolution to a storyline that I became very invested in.
It was a full 5 star read until I was left hanging-I do hope we get a Safa#2 and a satisfying conclusion in a sequel.
VERY SOON.
TW: Rape, Domestic Violence
A buddy read with DeAnn and Mary Beth! Be sure to watch for their amazing reviews! 💞
July 24, 2025
4.5⭐️ Let me begin by saying, I have zero chill when it comes to new books by Kia Abdullah, and therefore it shouldn’t be too surprising that I already scoped this one out far in advance of its US release. And of course, given that it’s written by an absolute pro, this book did not disappoint, especially on audio, narrated by the fabulous Tania Rodrigues.
This is exactly the type of book you must go into blind, and to prevent any kind of spoilers whatsoever, I am skipping the synopsis and going straight to the bottom line— pick this one up ASAP. If you are someone who loves thrillers deeper than the popcorn variety, with fantastically rich character development and a writer who not only allows you to see both sides of a story, but to question yourself as to who it is you believe. Ripe with morally grey characters, who are as flawed as they are intriguing, and courtroom scenes that pack a punch, this is the type of book you can’t help but binge; but think about long after you’ve finished.
📌 Prepare yourself, my friends. This is sure to be a series.
Read if you like:
▪️domestic suspense
▪️turbulent friendships
▪️twists you won’t see coming
▪️character-driven stories
▪️who can you trust?
▪️mystery series
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you to the Alisᵗᵐ for buddy reading this one with me ♥︎
This is exactly the type of book you must go into blind, and to prevent any kind of spoilers whatsoever, I am skipping the synopsis and going straight to the bottom line— pick this one up ASAP. If you are someone who loves thrillers deeper than the popcorn variety, with fantastically rich character development and a writer who not only allows you to see both sides of a story, but to question yourself as to who it is you believe. Ripe with morally grey characters, who are as flawed as they are intriguing, and courtroom scenes that pack a punch, this is the type of book you can’t help but binge; but think about long after you’ve finished.
📌 Prepare yourself, my friends. This is sure to be a series.
Read if you like:
▪️domestic suspense
▪️turbulent friendships
▪️twists you won’t see coming
▪️character-driven stories
▪️who can you trust?
▪️mystery series
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you to the Alisᵗᵐ for buddy reading this one with me ♥︎
April 27, 2025
Ms. Abdullah again has left me completely dumbfounded
Lily and Safa have been friends since childhood but now in their adult years’ life has taken them both in a different direction. Lily is a popular daytime tv presenter and Safa once a renowned journalist is pretty much starting from scratch again.
When bruises on Lily’s body makes headlines, Safa comes back into her best friend’s life to try and find out what is going on, but Lily brushes her concerns away and says all is well. Until soon after the police are called to Lily’s home, and she is standing there next to a deceased body. Lily says she is now guilty, and we are about to uncover a whole lot of hidden secrets.
WOW WOW WOW this is why this author is one of my favourites. She is going to hit you with a taboo, sensitive dilemma and force you to keep flipping the pages right till the very end. Kia writes in that addictive way where you can picture everything described and just feel totally immersed and lost into the storytelling.
I thoroughly enjoyed the courtroom scenes and those usually are always my favourite as I love seeing the defense and prosecution go back and forth. I was reading it like ‘Oooh I don’t know what to believe anymore’. I did semi guess the twist but not fully and it bamboozled me and knocked me sideways! I was reeling afterwards but I can’t delve to much into why as it will ruin it!
⋆｡°✩ SAFA ⋆｡°✩
Ugh I love Safa character so much. She is such a strong, resilient woman who went through a traumatic childhood but remains confident and puts other needs before her own. I enjoyed following her personal life and relationship with her dad and her on-off again love life with Imran (although it did feel like the book left that situation incomplete) While trying to help get justice for her old friend she was also dealing with another case where there is an unknown man in her community known as ‘The Glassman’ who is breaking into elderly Indian women’s home and r*ping them. That storyline had me glued to my seat, but again I can’t say too much about it. I would love to read another book following Safa and her brilliant journalistic ways.
⋆｡°✩ LILY ⋆｡°✩
Sigh! Lily is one complex character that would have me one minute wanting to give her a hug to side eyeing her in serious distrust. She did come across as quite unlikeable and even though she also had a hard upbringing, some of her behaviour in her childhood would prevent you from wanting to be an ally for her. Her character development was an interesting journey to read through.
NOW Ms. Abdullah you know this would have been an easy 5 star read but that ending…. WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!
A very enjoyable as well as necessary read that will hit you in the gut when all is revealed. I am ready for the next book!
4.5 ⭐
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an unbiased honest review *
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
EEEEEK! I got an early ARC of the book!!!!!
Kia is one of my Top 5 favourite authors!!!
Immediately diving in, Lets Goooo!!!
💙💛💙
Lily and Safa have been friends since childhood but now in their adult years’ life has taken them both in a different direction. Lily is a popular daytime tv presenter and Safa once a renowned journalist is pretty much starting from scratch again.
When bruises on Lily’s body makes headlines, Safa comes back into her best friend’s life to try and find out what is going on, but Lily brushes her concerns away and says all is well. Until soon after the police are called to Lily’s home, and she is standing there next to a deceased body. Lily says she is now guilty, and we are about to uncover a whole lot of hidden secrets.
WOW WOW WOW this is why this author is one of my favourites. She is going to hit you with a taboo, sensitive dilemma and force you to keep flipping the pages right till the very end. Kia writes in that addictive way where you can picture everything described and just feel totally immersed and lost into the storytelling.
I thoroughly enjoyed the courtroom scenes and those usually are always my favourite as I love seeing the defense and prosecution go back and forth. I was reading it like ‘Oooh I don’t know what to believe anymore’. I did semi guess the twist but not fully and it bamboozled me and knocked me sideways! I was reeling afterwards but I can’t delve to much into why as it will ruin it!
⋆｡°✩ SAFA ⋆｡°✩
Ugh I love Safa character so much. She is such a strong, resilient woman who went through a traumatic childhood but remains confident and puts other needs before her own. I enjoyed following her personal life and relationship with her dad and her on-off again love life with Imran (although it did feel like the book left that situation incomplete) While trying to help get justice for her old friend she was also dealing with another case where there is an unknown man in her community known as ‘The Glassman’ who is breaking into elderly Indian women’s home and r*ping them. That storyline had me glued to my seat, but again I can’t say too much about it. I would love to read another book following Safa and her brilliant journalistic ways.
⋆｡°✩ LILY ⋆｡°✩
Sigh! Lily is one complex character that would have me one minute wanting to give her a hug to side eyeing her in serious distrust. She did come across as quite unlikeable and even though she also had a hard upbringing, some of her behaviour in her childhood would prevent you from wanting to be an ally for her. Her character development was an interesting journey to read through.
NOW Ms. Abdullah you know this would have been an easy 5 star read but that ending…. WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!
A very enjoyable as well as necessary read that will hit you in the gut when all is revealed. I am ready for the next book!
4.5 ⭐
*Thank you to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an unbiased honest review *
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
EEEEEK! I got an early ARC of the book!!!!!
Kia is one of my Top 5 favourite authors!!!
Immediately diving in, Lets Goooo!!!
💙💛💙
February 20, 2025
Social media is ablaze as TV presenter Lily Astor has shown up for work with a black eye. Journalist Safa Saleem is asked by her boss to investigate, as Lily and Safa are friends from childhood, although their friendship has cooled over recent years. Safa reaches out but Lily reassures her that it’s nothing more than clumsiness. This is just the start as things spiral downwards and conclude with a showdown after Lily and her husband Richard host a party. Can Safa use all her investigative powers and her friendship with Lily to get to the truth?
Kia Abdullah has done it again for me. She pulls me into the compelling and absorbing plot and I find the book is hard to set aside. It’s hard hitting, raw, painful as well as being very moving at times. The author seems to be able to get right to the heart of a story and she can really make you think.
At the heart of this story are the two central protagonists. I like Safa and she has a very good backstory, part of which is with Lily and this helps to explain aspects of her personality and some of her actions. She’s fierce, honest, moral, brave and can be guarded. At times my heart breaks for her, because she’s been carrying a huge load for a very long time. Her friendship and more with police officer Imran gives me hope for her! Lily is one enigmatic tough cookie. She’s intelligent, capable and very resilient but she’s had to be in a number of ways. She too has a good but challenging backstory and as the present day narrative dramatically unfolds, I swing from sympathy to puzzlement and wondering wherein lies the truth. This conundrum dominates the second half of the book as it seems that things are not as straightforward as they first appear.
It’s a gritty storyline and so tense in places that I find myself holding my breath as eggshells are trodden on. It’s emotional, suspenseful, chilling but at the same time it’s authentic and real. It’s written with compassion as well as understanding. It has a fast paced swiftly moving plot which is also clever as it asks big questions about things such as victim blaming and miscarriages of justice. The courtroom scenes are excellent, they’re stressful in many respects as inconsistencies are uncovered and revealed and the suspense and pain is palpable There are plenty of twists and turns with surprising and unexpected plot directions and cliffhanger chapter endings. It’s nicely set up for number two which continues a plot thread and I look forward to seeing how that plays out. The ‘game’ is on.
Highly recommended. This is another belter of a read from a very talented author.
With thanks to netGalley and especially to HQ for the EPUB in return for an honest review.
Kia Abdullah has done it again for me. She pulls me into the compelling and absorbing plot and I find the book is hard to set aside. It’s hard hitting, raw, painful as well as being very moving at times. The author seems to be able to get right to the heart of a story and she can really make you think.
At the heart of this story are the two central protagonists. I like Safa and she has a very good backstory, part of which is with Lily and this helps to explain aspects of her personality and some of her actions. She’s fierce, honest, moral, brave and can be guarded. At times my heart breaks for her, because she’s been carrying a huge load for a very long time. Her friendship and more with police officer Imran gives me hope for her! Lily is one enigmatic tough cookie. She’s intelligent, capable and very resilient but she’s had to be in a number of ways. She too has a good but challenging backstory and as the present day narrative dramatically unfolds, I swing from sympathy to puzzlement and wondering wherein lies the truth. This conundrum dominates the second half of the book as it seems that things are not as straightforward as they first appear.
It’s a gritty storyline and so tense in places that I find myself holding my breath as eggshells are trodden on. It’s emotional, suspenseful, chilling but at the same time it’s authentic and real. It’s written with compassion as well as understanding. It has a fast paced swiftly moving plot which is also clever as it asks big questions about things such as victim blaming and miscarriages of justice. The courtroom scenes are excellent, they’re stressful in many respects as inconsistencies are uncovered and revealed and the suspense and pain is palpable There are plenty of twists and turns with surprising and unexpected plot directions and cliffhanger chapter endings. It’s nicely set up for number two which continues a plot thread and I look forward to seeing how that plays out. The ‘game’ is on.
Highly recommended. This is another belter of a read from a very talented author.
With thanks to netGalley and especially to HQ for the EPUB in return for an honest review.
June 21, 2025
I am a big fan of this authors writing and twisty thrillers. What I love most is how she brings us such real and relatable characters and stories, while telling such powerful and important stories. Things are ever what they seem to be and after reading her previous books I feel that I caught the clues this time. This in no way took away my enjoyment of this book it was another fantastic read.
I particularly enjoyed the courtroom scenes, with such strong cases in both sides of the coin. Safa was a great character, her determination to help her friend and not cave in to get the story for her paper and possibly an award was refreshing. I feel we will be hearing more from her with that open ended final chapter.
Thanks so much to HQ on NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 19th.
I particularly enjoyed the courtroom scenes, with such strong cases in both sides of the coin. Safa was a great character, her determination to help her friend and not cave in to get the story for her paper and possibly an award was refreshing. I feel we will be hearing more from her with that open ended final chapter.
Thanks so much to HQ on NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 19th.
December 8, 2025
My first by this author, but definitely not my last!
Lily Astor is a famous breakfast TV presenter. Everyone believes her life is perfect until a bruise appears on her face. Has she been abused by her husband? She immediately denies it.
Safa Saleem is a journalist at a small paper after losing her job at a major one. Her boss asks her to look into Lily’s story, and since Safa grew up with her, she decides to give Lily a call.
Safa and Lily used to be best friends, but when Lily got accepted to college without telling Safa, their friendship began to fall apart.
Safa is also investigating the “Glassman,” a man who breaks into the homes of elderly Asian women and rapes them. Safa believes that because these women are Asian like her, they’ll open up and she’ll be able to tell their stories.
Then the cops are called to Lily's home. Someone is dead.
What Happens in the Dark was addictive. I guessed the main plot twist, but I was still invested in the delivery.
One thing I didn’t like was an unresolved storyline. Maybe there will be a sequel?
Cliffhanger: Yes
4/5 Fangs
Lily Astor is a famous breakfast TV presenter. Everyone believes her life is perfect until a bruise appears on her face. Has she been abused by her husband? She immediately denies it.
Safa Saleem is a journalist at a small paper after losing her job at a major one. Her boss asks her to look into Lily’s story, and since Safa grew up with her, she decides to give Lily a call.
Safa and Lily used to be best friends, but when Lily got accepted to college without telling Safa, their friendship began to fall apart.
Safa is also investigating the “Glassman,” a man who breaks into the homes of elderly Asian women and rapes them. Safa believes that because these women are Asian like her, they’ll open up and she’ll be able to tell their stories.
Then the cops are called to Lily's home. Someone is dead.
What Happens in the Dark was addictive. I guessed the main plot twist, but I was still invested in the delivery.
One thing I didn’t like was an unresolved storyline. Maybe there will be a sequel?
Cliffhanger: Yes
4/5 Fangs
September 17, 2025
I have previously read all of Kia Abdullah's brillaint thrillers and rated them a high 4 to 5 Stars, and preordered this one as she is one of my favourite writers. Her books feature copmpelling court room scenes and realistic characters. She addresses troubling social issues with sensitivity and compassion.
This book focuses on domestic abuse, sexual assault, often unreported or not believed and ignored. The story is thought-provoking , powerful, and poignant.
Lily is a cheerful, bubbly personality on TV with many fans. She was raised in poverty and neglect, but through determination, hard work, and marriage to Richard Astor, she has transformed herself to a popular morning presence on TV. She is subjected to rumours and speculation since coming to work with a black eye that makeup can't quite hide, and a bruise on her arm was observed. The injuries are explained as the result of clumsy accidents. Is her husband beating her?
Safa was a close childhood friend, but they have grown apart. She is honest and brave, and was a leading journalist for a prestigous newspaper, but was dismissed. She is now struggling with work for a local paper. She is investigating sexual assaults targeting elderly Bangaladeshi women. The women will not admit to the attacks due to shame, culture, and language barriers. As Safa has a Bengal background and speaks some of their language, she hopes that would give her an opening to break their silence through reassurance. They refuse to admit to anything. They are believed to be victims of a intruder called the Glassman. Safa had files about her research on the Glassman but her former newspaper refuses to return them to her. She is writing an article exposing violence against women, their silence, victim blaming, and lack of justice. This truthful article when completed is predicted to be win journalistic awards. She lives with a loving father, and a policeman, Imran wants to be more than a friend.
Whden Safa hears the rumours about Lily, she rushes to her side anxious to help. Lily denies any problem, saying the injuries were due to accidents. Soon police are called to the home where they find Lily in a bloody scene standing over Richard's body. She is arrested but remains calm. There are two conflicting stories at the trial and it is difficult to decide which one to believe.
One one side, Richard was approaching Lily to beat her. She held a knife to scare him away, but he rushed into the knife and died by accident. On the other hand, she killed him out of anger when she discovered he was having an affair and wanted a divorce. Lily is found guilty and sentenced to prison for murder. Safa is unable to get her to explain what happened. Lily's main concern is for her 13-year-old son . Her sister is currently looking after him, but she no longer wants the responsibility.
There is now a shocking twist that I didn't see coming. It puts everything into upheaval. Safa does something implausible, trading her well-researched article in return for her files on the Glassman. The book ends with the Glassman having Safa in his sight and in danger. That case unresolved and a second book is needed.
This book focuses on domestic abuse, sexual assault, often unreported or not believed and ignored. The story is thought-provoking , powerful, and poignant.
Lily is a cheerful, bubbly personality on TV with many fans. She was raised in poverty and neglect, but through determination, hard work, and marriage to Richard Astor, she has transformed herself to a popular morning presence on TV. She is subjected to rumours and speculation since coming to work with a black eye that makeup can't quite hide, and a bruise on her arm was observed. The injuries are explained as the result of clumsy accidents. Is her husband beating her?
Safa was a close childhood friend, but they have grown apart. She is honest and brave, and was a leading journalist for a prestigous newspaper, but was dismissed. She is now struggling with work for a local paper. She is investigating sexual assaults targeting elderly Bangaladeshi women. The women will not admit to the attacks due to shame, culture, and language barriers. As Safa has a Bengal background and speaks some of their language, she hopes that would give her an opening to break their silence through reassurance. They refuse to admit to anything. They are believed to be victims of a intruder called the Glassman. Safa had files about her research on the Glassman but her former newspaper refuses to return them to her. She is writing an article exposing violence against women, their silence, victim blaming, and lack of justice. This truthful article when completed is predicted to be win journalistic awards. She lives with a loving father, and a policeman, Imran wants to be more than a friend.
Whden Safa hears the rumours about Lily, she rushes to her side anxious to help. Lily denies any problem, saying the injuries were due to accidents. Soon police are called to the home where they find Lily in a bloody scene standing over Richard's body. She is arrested but remains calm. There are two conflicting stories at the trial and it is difficult to decide which one to believe.
One one side, Richard was approaching Lily to beat her. She held a knife to scare him away, but he rushed into the knife and died by accident. On the other hand, she killed him out of anger when she discovered he was having an affair and wanted a divorce. Lily is found guilty and sentenced to prison for murder. Safa is unable to get her to explain what happened. Lily's main concern is for her 13-year-old son . Her sister is currently looking after him, but she no longer wants the responsibility.
There is now a shocking twist that I didn't see coming. It puts everything into upheaval. Safa does something implausible, trading her well-researched article in return for her files on the Glassman. The book ends with the Glassman having Safa in his sight and in danger. That case unresolved and a second book is needed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2025
This book is so good! I love this author
September 28, 2025
*Seeking the Truth*
**4.5 Stars**
This story begins with the start of a friendship between Lily and Safa, two girls who grew up with very little money, especially Lily. Their friendship slowly dwindled, leading to very different lives. Now, Lily is an established breakfast TV presenter, while Safa is a journalist who worked for a prestigious newspaper. However, she was dismissed due to an error that wasn’t her fault, and she now works for a much lower-class paper. Despite this setback, Safa has never lost her dogged search for the truth.
One day, the news breaks about bruises on Lily’s body. Initially, Lily laughs it off at work and gives an excuse, but Safa decides to get in touch with her. Lily is desperate to keep Safa away from the story, as she knows Safa always has a way of finding out the truth.
Then, one day, a body lies dead at Lily’s feet. She pleads guilty, but some of her story doesn’t add up. Safa is determined to find the truth, no matter where it takes her.
As time passes, there’s a revelation that even Safa isn’t prepared for. I won’t say more, but I must admit I did guess. Kia Abdullah has a way of writing that I find engaging.
**4.5 Stars**
This story begins with the start of a friendship between Lily and Safa, two girls who grew up with very little money, especially Lily. Their friendship slowly dwindled, leading to very different lives. Now, Lily is an established breakfast TV presenter, while Safa is a journalist who worked for a prestigious newspaper. However, she was dismissed due to an error that wasn’t her fault, and she now works for a much lower-class paper. Despite this setback, Safa has never lost her dogged search for the truth.
One day, the news breaks about bruises on Lily’s body. Initially, Lily laughs it off at work and gives an excuse, but Safa decides to get in touch with her. Lily is desperate to keep Safa away from the story, as she knows Safa always has a way of finding out the truth.
Then, one day, a body lies dead at Lily’s feet. She pleads guilty, but some of her story doesn’t add up. Safa is determined to find the truth, no matter where it takes her.
As time passes, there’s a revelation that even Safa isn’t prepared for. I won’t say more, but I must admit I did guess. Kia Abdullah has a way of writing that I find engaging.
March 13, 2025
3.75 stars thank you HQ books for an early copy in exchange my honest feedback
Publishes June 19th and follows a small time journalist named Safa who was once close friends with the nation’s favorite tv presenter named Lily. When Lily begins showing up to work with visible bruises, speculation about the state of her marriage starts to grow but Lily repeatedly denies claims of abuse. When police are called due to a homicide in Lily’s home, Lily takes responsibility.
This courtroom style thriller grabbed my attention pretty quickly. I thought it did a great job of tackling domestic violence in a way that brought awareness and empathy for victims.
I will say, while I did find this book predictable I was less concerned about what the truth was and more invested in the reasoning of why Lily was behaving as she was throughout the story and how her relationship with Safa comes into play.
Overall, I thought this was an important look at domestic abuse and how we as humans often times still love and protect the ones who hurt us.
Video: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2Vc2yUc/
Publishes June 19th and follows a small time journalist named Safa who was once close friends with the nation’s favorite tv presenter named Lily. When Lily begins showing up to work with visible bruises, speculation about the state of her marriage starts to grow but Lily repeatedly denies claims of abuse. When police are called due to a homicide in Lily’s home, Lily takes responsibility.
This courtroom style thriller grabbed my attention pretty quickly. I thought it did a great job of tackling domestic violence in a way that brought awareness and empathy for victims.
I will say, while I did find this book predictable I was less concerned about what the truth was and more invested in the reasoning of why Lily was behaving as she was throughout the story and how her relationship with Safa comes into play.
Overall, I thought this was an important look at domestic abuse and how we as humans often times still love and protect the ones who hurt us.
Video: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2Vc2yUc/
August 15, 2025
Okay, so What Happens in the Dark had me in a chokehold from page one. I legit read it in less than a day because I NEEDED to know what was going on! The twists had me second-guessing everything, and that ending? Straight-up chills.
We follow Safa, a journalist and a total queen. She's smart, driven, and not letting anything slide. And Lily’s a bit more complicated, which makes her storyline extra juicy. Most of the action goes down in the courtroom, and I loved how it kept me swaying between “guilty” and “not guilty,” the entire time.
Not gonna lie, the constant mention of skin colour felt unnecessary, and one subplot just… vanished. But the tension, the characters, and those chef’s kiss twists made it totally worth it. If you’re into jaw-dropping endings and courtroom drama, this one is a must-add to your TBR.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
✔️ Legal Thriller
✔️ Media Scandal
✔️ Buried Secrets
✔️ Morally Grey Characters
We follow Safa, a journalist and a total queen. She's smart, driven, and not letting anything slide. And Lily’s a bit more complicated, which makes her storyline extra juicy. Most of the action goes down in the courtroom, and I loved how it kept me swaying between “guilty” and “not guilty,” the entire time.
Not gonna lie, the constant mention of skin colour felt unnecessary, and one subplot just… vanished. But the tension, the characters, and those chef’s kiss twists made it totally worth it. If you’re into jaw-dropping endings and courtroom drama, this one is a must-add to your TBR.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
✔️ Legal Thriller
✔️ Media Scandal
✔️ Buried Secrets
✔️ Morally Grey Characters
February 25, 2025
Do I even need to read Kia Abdullah's novels to give them five stars? I should probably rate five stars, rave about how good it was and then read it. That's how confident I am in Abdullah's writing.
This was another brilliant read and what I love about her writing is that she isn't afraid to tackle the big issues with race often at the centre of it. For those unfamiliar with her work, she has written about racism, sexual assault, the death of a young child with such finesse, it makes her one of the best authors out there at the moment and any new book of hers immediately jumps to the top of my TBR pile.
In WHITD, she takes on the topic of domestic abuse, as well as sexual assault in the Bangladeshi community. The book tells the story of two women, Lily and Safa, friends growing up but who have now drifted apart. Lily is the golden girl of breakfast TV whereas Safa is slumming it as a journalist in a small, local paper after a fall from grace.
However, when Lily begins to show up for work with some bruising, Safa is keen to speak to her to hear her side of the story and support her old friend through suspected domestic abuse. However, the truth is far more complicated than anyone could have imagined.
Alongside this, Safa is also working on a story about the Glassman, who is suspected of sexual assaults within the Bangladeshi community. Given that victims within this community are more hesitant to come forward, Safa is having trouble getting the police to take this seriously and even admit that the Glassman exists.
I honestly loved this so much and can't recommend it enough. The story is gripping, emotional and has more twists and turns than an F1 circuit.
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was another brilliant read and what I love about her writing is that she isn't afraid to tackle the big issues with race often at the centre of it. For those unfamiliar with her work, she has written about racism, sexual assault, the death of a young child with such finesse, it makes her one of the best authors out there at the moment and any new book of hers immediately jumps to the top of my TBR pile.
In WHITD, she takes on the topic of domestic abuse, as well as sexual assault in the Bangladeshi community. The book tells the story of two women, Lily and Safa, friends growing up but who have now drifted apart. Lily is the golden girl of breakfast TV whereas Safa is slumming it as a journalist in a small, local paper after a fall from grace.
However, when Lily begins to show up for work with some bruising, Safa is keen to speak to her to hear her side of the story and support her old friend through suspected domestic abuse. However, the truth is far more complicated than anyone could have imagined.
Alongside this, Safa is also working on a story about the Glassman, who is suspected of sexual assaults within the Bangladeshi community. Given that victims within this community are more hesitant to come forward, Safa is having trouble getting the police to take this seriously and even admit that the Glassman exists.
I honestly loved this so much and can't recommend it enough. The story is gripping, emotional and has more twists and turns than an F1 circuit.
Thanks to Netgalley and HQ for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2025
** 2 1/2 Stars — Very Disappointing!!
I’ve loved all four of Kia Abdullah’s books prior to her latest and have considered her to be one of my Don’t Miss authors. However, she’s fallen out of that category with a thud for me after finishing her recently released What Happens In The Dark. Not only is this my least favorite of her books, it is the only one in which I was so disappointed that, at this point, it is unlikely that I’ll read Abdullah’s sequel to What Happens In The Dark; in which she took the easy way out by failing to wrap up one of the two plot lines … I won’t say which one to avoid spoilers.
As to the plot line Abdullah does bring to conclusion, I found it to be “just okay”, as I guessed “who done it” not even halfway through the book. As such, I found the supposedly surprise ending to not be very surprising and predictable. And, unlike what I’ve always considered to be strong strengths of Abdullah’s in her previous books, I found her characters to be only moderately credible, interesting and well-developed, and her courtroom trial to be considerably lacking in “explosiveness”
As is obvious from my review, I found Abdullah’s latest to be considerably sub par and disappointing; and thus a book I would not recommend highly.
I’ve loved all four of Kia Abdullah’s books prior to her latest and have considered her to be one of my Don’t Miss authors. However, she’s fallen out of that category with a thud for me after finishing her recently released What Happens In The Dark. Not only is this my least favorite of her books, it is the only one in which I was so disappointed that, at this point, it is unlikely that I’ll read Abdullah’s sequel to What Happens In The Dark; in which she took the easy way out by failing to wrap up one of the two plot lines … I won’t say which one to avoid spoilers.
As to the plot line Abdullah does bring to conclusion, I found it to be “just okay”, as I guessed “who done it” not even halfway through the book. As such, I found the supposedly surprise ending to not be very surprising and predictable. And, unlike what I’ve always considered to be strong strengths of Abdullah’s in her previous books, I found her characters to be only moderately credible, interesting and well-developed, and her courtroom trial to be considerably lacking in “explosiveness”
As is obvious from my review, I found Abdullah’s latest to be considerably sub par and disappointing; and thus a book I would not recommend highly.
February 25, 2025
Kia Abdullah has been one of my favourite authors for a while now, and What Happens in the Dark just proves once again why I love her writing. From the very first page I was hooked. This isn’t just a thriller, it’s a deep, thought-provoking dive into friendship, ambition, and the secrets we hide, even from ourselves.
The story follows Lily, a beloved breakfast TV presenter with the perfect family or so it seems. Her former best friend, Safa, once a respected journalist, is struggling as her life falls apart. When the police find Lily standing over a dead body in her own home, everything unravels, leading to a tense courtroom drama that had me completely gripped.
One of the things I adore about Abdullah’s writing is how she crafts such complex, flawed characters. Lily and Safa aren't always likeable, but that’s exactly what makes them feel so real. I found myself constantly shifting my opinions, questioning who was telling the truth, and getting wrapped up in their messy, complicated history. Abdullah doesn’t just throw in twists for ‘shock value’ each one feels natural and purposeful, deepening the story with every reveal.
The courtroom scenes were some of my favourite moments. They’re razor-sharp, packed with tension, and filled with those tiny, devastating revelations that make you question everything. I love a good legal thriller, and this one delivers while also exploring deeper themes such as loyalty, power, and the price of success. But what I loved most? The way this book made me think. It’s not just about what happens, it’s about about why people do the things they do. How far would you go to protect your secrets? And at what cost?
If you love thrillers that keep you guessing and characters that feel unsettlingly real, What Happens in the Dark is a must-read. Just be warned, you won’t be able to put What Happens In The Dark down.
You can follow my reviews at
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
The story follows Lily, a beloved breakfast TV presenter with the perfect family or so it seems. Her former best friend, Safa, once a respected journalist, is struggling as her life falls apart. When the police find Lily standing over a dead body in her own home, everything unravels, leading to a tense courtroom drama that had me completely gripped.
One of the things I adore about Abdullah’s writing is how she crafts such complex, flawed characters. Lily and Safa aren't always likeable, but that’s exactly what makes them feel so real. I found myself constantly shifting my opinions, questioning who was telling the truth, and getting wrapped up in their messy, complicated history. Abdullah doesn’t just throw in twists for ‘shock value’ each one feels natural and purposeful, deepening the story with every reveal.
The courtroom scenes were some of my favourite moments. They’re razor-sharp, packed with tension, and filled with those tiny, devastating revelations that make you question everything. I love a good legal thriller, and this one delivers while also exploring deeper themes such as loyalty, power, and the price of success. But what I loved most? The way this book made me think. It’s not just about what happens, it’s about about why people do the things they do. How far would you go to protect your secrets? And at what cost?
If you love thrillers that keep you guessing and characters that feel unsettlingly real, What Happens in the Dark is a must-read. Just be warned, you won’t be able to put What Happens In The Dark down.
You can follow my reviews at
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
April 26, 2025
I’ve read everything Kia Abdullah has written, and after my first book of hers, I binged the rest in a week lol, she’s that good! What Happens in the Dark is no exception. I loved the tension, the messy, complicated character dynamics, and the courtroom drama (which Kia always crushes).
One of my favorite things about her writing is that the twists aren’t just there for shock value, and she always grounds everything in real, complicated social issues. This time, it’s about domestic abuse and the impossible choices women are forced to make, and she handles it with so much nuance and care.
I loved Safa — her determination, her resilience, the way she fights to find the truth even when everything’s stacked against her. I was fully in it with her, rooting for her every step of the way.
One of my favorite things about her writing is that the twists aren’t just there for shock value, and she always grounds everything in real, complicated social issues. This time, it’s about domestic abuse and the impossible choices women are forced to make, and she handles it with so much nuance and care.
I loved Safa — her determination, her resilience, the way she fights to find the truth even when everything’s stacked against her. I was fully in it with her, rooting for her every step of the way.
June 20, 2025
4th book from this author and 4th time at writing genius tbh
The author has the ability to create a story, then a 2nd story to run alongside, both being navigated by the main character, then one being wrapped up in a court drama and all done to perfection
I am wary to say too much about the story other than it is on point, timely, pinpointing of social matters that need discussion, dealing in facts and inviting the reader into some very dark and unfathomable situation’s and areas of abuse not deemed accessible to speak about, but the author shows they need to be spoken about, she champions people who need it whilst telling an engrossing story, not easy to do but it is done admirably
As well as that there are so many big whooshes of change in the story it is a true ‘no way’ read
Uncompromising in every way, just as the author intended, skilful and resounding in its honesty
So good…..
The author has the ability to create a story, then a 2nd story to run alongside, both being navigated by the main character, then one being wrapped up in a court drama and all done to perfection
I am wary to say too much about the story other than it is on point, timely, pinpointing of social matters that need discussion, dealing in facts and inviting the reader into some very dark and unfathomable situation’s and areas of abuse not deemed accessible to speak about, but the author shows they need to be spoken about, she champions people who need it whilst telling an engrossing story, not easy to do but it is done admirably
As well as that there are so many big whooshes of change in the story it is a true ‘no way’ read
Uncompromising in every way, just as the author intended, skilful and resounding in its honesty
So good…..
June 19, 2025
What a thought-provoking read! I have not read any by Abdullah before and she is definitely on my radar – especially as this book finished on an unexpected cliff-hanger.
In this thriller, Abdullah explores what it means to be a victim. Stereotypes are challenged concerning victims of domestic abuse and I found the stark contrast between Lily’s story and the Glassman are what drives the narrative. If a victim does not speak up, why are they made to feel shamed? Can a victim be a famous, privileged white woman? Why does pride silence the voice of victims? Such an emotional subject, but I thought Abdullah handled it with sensitivity and encourages readers to question their own personal judgements.
There are two main plots in the story. Safa is following the developments of a case where her old friend, Lily Astor, is to appear in court after the murder of her husband. Yet, claims of domestic abuse swirl around this case and Safa is determined to ensure her friend is acknowledged for finally speaking up against violence. Safa’s support is muddled, however, as being a journalist, she is also writing a potentially career-changing piece about Lily’s case and other domestic abuse victims.
However, it was the sub-plot featuring the Glassman that was equally provocative. This serial abuser has haunted Safa and she feels she is closing in on the perpetrator. She is determined to ensure the victims’ voices are heard but pride and a cultural barrier means the Glassman continues to act without consequences. I honestly thought this would be resolved in the book but after an explosive revelation near the end, Abdullah leaves this open: I’m going to have to get my hands on the sequel to find out if Safa is successful.
A rich novel that takes place in the courtroom, I found these scenes tense and immersive. Sometimes I have found courtroom dramas to be quite a slog. This was written in such a way, with the witnesses providing significant insights into Lily’s marriage, that I felt part of the jury, trying to reach a decision. Readers know there is going to be a dramatic revelation, but I certainly did not expect the direction Abdullah took the novel.
A fantastic read and one that will stay with me for a while. It was engrossing, thrilling and one that I will probably read again in the future. Highly recommended.
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this thriller, Abdullah explores what it means to be a victim. Stereotypes are challenged concerning victims of domestic abuse and I found the stark contrast between Lily’s story and the Glassman are what drives the narrative. If a victim does not speak up, why are they made to feel shamed? Can a victim be a famous, privileged white woman? Why does pride silence the voice of victims? Such an emotional subject, but I thought Abdullah handled it with sensitivity and encourages readers to question their own personal judgements.
There are two main plots in the story. Safa is following the developments of a case where her old friend, Lily Astor, is to appear in court after the murder of her husband. Yet, claims of domestic abuse swirl around this case and Safa is determined to ensure her friend is acknowledged for finally speaking up against violence. Safa’s support is muddled, however, as being a journalist, she is also writing a potentially career-changing piece about Lily’s case and other domestic abuse victims.
However, it was the sub-plot featuring the Glassman that was equally provocative. This serial abuser has haunted Safa and she feels she is closing in on the perpetrator. She is determined to ensure the victims’ voices are heard but pride and a cultural barrier means the Glassman continues to act without consequences. I honestly thought this would be resolved in the book but after an explosive revelation near the end, Abdullah leaves this open: I’m going to have to get my hands on the sequel to find out if Safa is successful.
A rich novel that takes place in the courtroom, I found these scenes tense and immersive. Sometimes I have found courtroom dramas to be quite a slog. This was written in such a way, with the witnesses providing significant insights into Lily’s marriage, that I felt part of the jury, trying to reach a decision. Readers know there is going to be a dramatic revelation, but I certainly did not expect the direction Abdullah took the novel.
A fantastic read and one that will stay with me for a while. It was engrossing, thrilling and one that I will probably read again in the future. Highly recommended.
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
February 1, 2025One of my favourite authors! Can’t wait to read this!!
February 20, 2025
Kia Abdullah is one of a handful of authors that I read without even checking the blurb. Having read all her previous books, I know that I am guaranteed an intelligent, topical, thought-provoking legal thriller which tackles uncomfortable subjects with sensitivity.
What Happens in the Dark is the latest standalone thriller featuring a strong female cast. Safa and Lily were best friends growing up on a council estate in London. Both are from single parent families, Safa's family were originally from Bangladesh and she lives with her widowed father. Lily's mother was an alcoholic, unable to care or feed her children adequately.
Now in their adulthood, Safa is a journalist who has suffered a huge career setback and is now working on a local newspaper, barely surviving financially and lives in a tiny flat. Lily is now a famous and beloved daytime TV presenter, living in luxury with her teenage son and husband.
When Lily appears on tv with a black eye and then bruises on her arm Safa tries to reach out as both a friend and journalist. However within days Lily is involved in a crime and now Safa is determined to uncover the truth and save her friend from life behind bars.
Having looked at Kia's back catalogue of books - Take It Back, Truth Be Told, Next of Kin and Perfectly Nice Neighbours, it's clear that this author is not afraid to tackle subjects which some may consider triggering or taboo. However, you can be 100% guaranteed that whether it's racial tension, domestic abuse, rape, religion or the death of a child this author ALWAYS delivers a unique, clever, and thought provoking story that will leave the reader either breathless, heartbroken, shocked or shaken and more importantly desperate to read her next book!
What Happens in the Dark is the latest standalone thriller featuring a strong female cast. Safa and Lily were best friends growing up on a council estate in London. Both are from single parent families, Safa's family were originally from Bangladesh and she lives with her widowed father. Lily's mother was an alcoholic, unable to care or feed her children adequately.
Now in their adulthood, Safa is a journalist who has suffered a huge career setback and is now working on a local newspaper, barely surviving financially and lives in a tiny flat. Lily is now a famous and beloved daytime TV presenter, living in luxury with her teenage son and husband.
When Lily appears on tv with a black eye and then bruises on her arm Safa tries to reach out as both a friend and journalist. However within days Lily is involved in a crime and now Safa is determined to uncover the truth and save her friend from life behind bars.
Having looked at Kia's back catalogue of books - Take It Back, Truth Be Told, Next of Kin and Perfectly Nice Neighbours, it's clear that this author is not afraid to tackle subjects which some may consider triggering or taboo. However, you can be 100% guaranteed that whether it's racial tension, domestic abuse, rape, religion or the death of a child this author ALWAYS delivers a unique, clever, and thought provoking story that will leave the reader either breathless, heartbroken, shocked or shaken and more importantly desperate to read her next book!
May 2, 2025
What Happens in The Dark was nothing short of amazing. I love how Kia Abdullah NEVER shys away from the IMPORTANT topics, the things that make us uncomfortable but are also necessary to discuss! This was powerful, thought provoking and emotional but she broached the topic with so much care and sensitivity. As heavy as this was, I couldn’t stop turning the pages, it’s totally addictive and her writing literally pulls you in! The courtroom scenes had me biting my nails, each witness had me nervous af when they were called to testify.
Safa was a strong woman with so much resilience. Her childhood broke my heart. I love that she stood on her morals and all she ever wanted was the TRUTH. Safa & her father were exactly what each other needed.
Lily .. whew, she was hard to like, hard to understand and hard to believe at times. She was complex and I wanted to hug her while simultaneously side eyeing her 😂 her childhood and upbringing definitely tells the story of why she is the way she is though. It all made sense in the end and the development of her character was spot on.
The twist near the end of this ripped my heart right out my chest. I was sad, angry & pretty speechless. As a wife, mother, woman, I can’t imagine ! This book punched me in the face 😭.
This is releasing in the UK on June 19th, go ahead and order from Amazon UK! A very BIG and special THANK YOU to Kia for this ARC. I love you down 💞
Safa was a strong woman with so much resilience. Her childhood broke my heart. I love that she stood on her morals and all she ever wanted was the TRUTH. Safa & her father were exactly what each other needed.
Lily .. whew, she was hard to like, hard to understand and hard to believe at times. She was complex and I wanted to hug her while simultaneously side eyeing her 😂 her childhood and upbringing definitely tells the story of why she is the way she is though. It all made sense in the end and the development of her character was spot on.
The twist near the end of this ripped my heart right out my chest. I was sad, angry & pretty speechless. As a wife, mother, woman, I can’t imagine ! This book punched me in the face 😭.
This is releasing in the UK on June 19th, go ahead and order from Amazon UK! A very BIG and special THANK YOU to Kia for this ARC. I love you down 💞
September 21, 2025
4.5 ⭐
If Kia Abdullah writes it, I'm gonna read it! 👏 This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and it didn't disappoint. I love courtroom thrillers and this was a clever one! 👌
Love the way Kia tackles heavy subjects with such compassion. Her books always make me think and feel.
Kia did an excellent job of painting Lily and Safa's complicated friendship. She is so good at building characters and making you care about them. Loved Safa's character -- her relationship with her dad and her desire to give a voice to all victims (including those who are afraid of speaking up because of language barriers).
The twist shook me! 🤯 I screamed!
The ending threw me for a loop and left me wanting more though.
If Kia Abdullah writes it, I'm gonna read it! 👏 This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and it didn't disappoint. I love courtroom thrillers and this was a clever one! 👌
Love the way Kia tackles heavy subjects with such compassion. Her books always make me think and feel.
Kia did an excellent job of painting Lily and Safa's complicated friendship. She is so good at building characters and making you care about them. Loved Safa's character -- her relationship with her dad and her desire to give a voice to all victims (including those who are afraid of speaking up because of language barriers).
The twist shook me! 🤯 I screamed!
The ending threw me for a loop and left me wanting more though.
March 2, 2025
Kia Abdullah does it again with this fascinating and entertaining read centred around domestic abuse.
Part thriller, part court room drama, part drama, it delves into the world of misogyny, sexism, classism and celebrity culture.
Hugely well rounded characters and a well plotted and paced story line, What Happens In The Dark was a hugely satisfying read for me. Nearly a five star read for me but I’ve taken a point off for some minor niggles:
The courtroom cross examinations while hugely entertaining seemed a little unrealistic. Neither counsel seemed to object to anything their counterpart threw at witnesses despite them badgering them at times. It did take me a little out of the moment.
The domestic abuse topic came very close to being preachy. Perhaps just about staying on the right side of the line, I thought it was unnecessary and a little clumsy as there was more than enough in the story to get the points across without bluntly labouring the point. I think readers have enough intelligence to get the point.
The whole Glassman side story while it fit in with the overall theme of the book and what it was trying to say felt a little tacked on and neglected. Still it leaves the door open for what I presume will be a sequel so it served that purpose.
Don’t let these mild criticisms put you off though. This is an extremely entertaining and thought provoking read. Abdullah continues to output high quality social commentary stories wrapped up in mystery/courtroom packages and What Happens In The Dark is a great addition to her output. Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
Part thriller, part court room drama, part drama, it delves into the world of misogyny, sexism, classism and celebrity culture.
Hugely well rounded characters and a well plotted and paced story line, What Happens In The Dark was a hugely satisfying read for me. Nearly a five star read for me but I’ve taken a point off for some minor niggles:
The courtroom cross examinations while hugely entertaining seemed a little unrealistic. Neither counsel seemed to object to anything their counterpart threw at witnesses despite them badgering them at times. It did take me a little out of the moment.
The domestic abuse topic came very close to being preachy. Perhaps just about staying on the right side of the line, I thought it was unnecessary and a little clumsy as there was more than enough in the story to get the points across without bluntly labouring the point. I think readers have enough intelligence to get the point.
The whole Glassman side story while it fit in with the overall theme of the book and what it was trying to say felt a little tacked on and neglected. Still it leaves the door open for what I presume will be a sequel so it served that purpose.
Don’t let these mild criticisms put you off though. This is an extremely entertaining and thought provoking read. Abdullah continues to output high quality social commentary stories wrapped up in mystery/courtroom packages and What Happens In The Dark is a great addition to her output. Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
October 23, 2025
Wow, Kia Abdullah does it again!
This book had me hooked from the first page. Lily, a beloved TV presenter, and Safa, her estranged childhood friend and struggling journalist, find their lives colliding again when bruises on Lily’s face spark a media frenzy. What starts as concern turns into something much darker, with secrets, shame, and a shocking courtroom twist that left me stunned.
Kia Abdullah tackles tough topics like domestic abuse and sexual assault with sensitivity and depth, and as always, her courtroom drama absolutely delivers. I just wish one thread hadn’t been left hanging… hoping for a Safa #2 soon because I need answers and ‘The Glassman’ solved!
This book had me hooked from the first page. Lily, a beloved TV presenter, and Safa, her estranged childhood friend and struggling journalist, find their lives colliding again when bruises on Lily’s face spark a media frenzy. What starts as concern turns into something much darker, with secrets, shame, and a shocking courtroom twist that left me stunned.
Kia Abdullah tackles tough topics like domestic abuse and sexual assault with sensitivity and depth, and as always, her courtroom drama absolutely delivers. I just wish one thread hadn’t been left hanging… hoping for a Safa #2 soon because I need answers and ‘The Glassman’ solved!
August 30, 2025
This novel begins at a measured pace, but it wasn’t long before I found myself fully absorbed in the intertwined lives of Lily and Safa, their fractured friendship, shared history, and the ways life has carried them in different directions. The story accelerates dramatically when Lily is accused of murdering her husband, Richard, and from that point on, it becomes impossible to put down.
❁ I loved how the courtroom scenes added intensity and suspense. When I thought I knew the truth about Lily, new doubts crept in. She’s strong and resilient, not someone who would quietly endure abuse, which made me constantly question what really happened behind closed doors.
❁ Parallel to Lily’s story is another harrowing thread: the case of “The Glassman,” a serial predator who targets elderly Bangladeshi women. These women, often first-generation immigrants, are silenced by shame, cultural expectations, and a fear of dishonor. This subplot was powerful and heartbreaking, shedding light on voices that are too often unheard.
❁ Safa stood out as a character. She is compelling, driven, yet gently fragile. I admired her difficult decision towards the end; it was heartbreaking, but felt right and left me rooting for her. I hope her journey continues in a sequel because her story feels far from finished.
❁ The theme of domestic abuse is at the heart of the novel, and it’s handled with honesty and sensitivity. It shows just how hard it can be to leave an abusive relationship, something that’s easy to say from the outside but painfully difficult when you’re the one living it.
❁ The final twist completely blindsided me, and I loved that the story kept me questioning until the end.
❁ Overall, this is a powerful blend of legal drama, emotional, thought-provoking, and gripping read. It explores difficult but important themes of domestic abuse, shame, silenced victims, and friendship while delivering the kind of suspense and character depth that keeps you turning the pages late into the night.
❁ This book is worth reading for readers who enjoy character-driven suspense with meaningful layers 😎
Thank you, Times Reads, for the review copy ✨
❁ I loved how the courtroom scenes added intensity and suspense. When I thought I knew the truth about Lily, new doubts crept in. She’s strong and resilient, not someone who would quietly endure abuse, which made me constantly question what really happened behind closed doors.
❁ Parallel to Lily’s story is another harrowing thread: the case of “The Glassman,” a serial predator who targets elderly Bangladeshi women. These women, often first-generation immigrants, are silenced by shame, cultural expectations, and a fear of dishonor. This subplot was powerful and heartbreaking, shedding light on voices that are too often unheard.
❁ Safa stood out as a character. She is compelling, driven, yet gently fragile. I admired her difficult decision towards the end; it was heartbreaking, but felt right and left me rooting for her. I hope her journey continues in a sequel because her story feels far from finished.
❁ The theme of domestic abuse is at the heart of the novel, and it’s handled with honesty and sensitivity. It shows just how hard it can be to leave an abusive relationship, something that’s easy to say from the outside but painfully difficult when you’re the one living it.
❁ The final twist completely blindsided me, and I loved that the story kept me questioning until the end.
❁ Overall, this is a powerful blend of legal drama, emotional, thought-provoking, and gripping read. It explores difficult but important themes of domestic abuse, shame, silenced victims, and friendship while delivering the kind of suspense and character depth that keeps you turning the pages late into the night.
❁ This book is worth reading for readers who enjoy character-driven suspense with meaningful layers 😎
Thank you, Times Reads, for the review copy ✨
November 3, 2025
Lily and Safa were best friends in childhood and high school, until they drifted apart in college. Now in their 30s, Lily is a popular morning TV host and Safa is a journalist down on her luck after being fired unfairly. Rumours start when viewers notice bruises on Lily, but she insists they are nothing. Safa tries to rekindle their friendship and interview Lily to clear the air but Lily is uncomfortable with that. Suddenly one night, Lily calls the police about a dead body at her house. She won't say more, but Safa is convinced her old best friend is innocent and tries to find justice for her.
This was a buddy read with C, and our second KA book. I enjoyed both books, and KA is becoming one of my favorite authors for her quick wit and sharp commentary on our current racial and political culture. This was a tense read, KA does such a good job at writing morally grey characters. I had no idea who to believe for the majority of the book! The courtroom scenes were packed with action and felt so realistic. Finally, the ending twist BLEW ME AWAY. My jaw dropped! The friendship between Safa and Lily was so complex. There were also side plots with Safa's complicated dating history and childhood trauma, and an investigation. This was a dark, tense and captivating read with a shocking twist that I won't be forgetting for awhile!
This was a buddy read with C, and our second KA book. I enjoyed both books, and KA is becoming one of my favorite authors for her quick wit and sharp commentary on our current racial and political culture. This was a tense read, KA does such a good job at writing morally grey characters. I had no idea who to believe for the majority of the book! The courtroom scenes were packed with action and felt so realistic. Finally, the ending twist BLEW ME AWAY. My jaw dropped! The friendship between Safa and Lily was so complex. There were also side plots with Safa's complicated dating history and childhood trauma, and an investigation. This was a dark, tense and captivating read with a shocking twist that I won't be forgetting for awhile!
August 2, 2025
“How many women would die because they could not, or would not, speak for themselves?”
Delves into lots of contemporary issues!
I just wanted a part 2 on the Glassman story 🤣
Delves into lots of contemporary issues!
I just wanted a part 2 on the Glassman story 🤣
September 29, 2025
2.5. Not badly written but an average read. If you like a very mild courtroom drama and something easy to read then certainly try it. For me though, it was obvious who the culprit was as soon as they were mentioned. I need more oomph in my books.
September 6, 2025
Kia Abdullah does it again! Seriously, her books deserve so much more hype and attention, it upsets me that I don't see many people talking about them. She's very quickly become an auto-buy/read author for me, so even though I'm not the biggest fan of domestic thrillers, I had to give this one a try. And I'm glad I did because it was definitely a worthwhile read.
What Happens in the Dark is a true page-turner, driven by its fast-paced plot and compelling, realistic and flawed characters. It was hard to step away from this book for more than a few hours. The plot twists are fantastic, and unlike some of Abdullah's other books, I found the ending here satisfying.
I'm hesitant to say much more as this is a book best enjoyed with minimal information, but for those who have read it, or don't mind spoilers, let's dive in.
Spoilers Ahead!
I really liked Safa as a character - though not as much as some of Abdullah's other female leads - and adored her relationship with her father. It was interesting to read about her character development as she came to terms with her childhood trauma and learnt to forgive herself. The novel also adeptly tackles important social issues, including the negative influence of toxic influencers, systemic oppression faced by women, and the complex concept of honor within some cultures.
The story follows two different cases. While I expected them to connect in a more significant way, the focus remained on the central story (i.e. Lily's case), which I didn't mind. The secondary Glassman case was left unresolved, which was a minor disappointment, not sure whether Abdullah plans to write more about that in one of her next books...
What I love about Kia Abdullah's books is that they have these twists that seem so absurd and crazy at first but then you realize that there were several tiny details throughout the book that hinted at the reveal all along. I feel like that is what makes a more memorable and prominent plot twist for me than something that comes out of nowhere with there being absolutely no way for readers to even guess at it.
What Happens in the Dark is a true page-turner, driven by its fast-paced plot and compelling, realistic and flawed characters. It was hard to step away from this book for more than a few hours. The plot twists are fantastic, and unlike some of Abdullah's other books, I found the ending here satisfying.
I'm hesitant to say much more as this is a book best enjoyed with minimal information, but for those who have read it, or don't mind spoilers, let's dive in.
Spoilers Ahead!
I really liked Safa as a character - though not as much as some of Abdullah's other female leads - and adored her relationship with her father. It was interesting to read about her character development as she came to terms with her childhood trauma and learnt to forgive herself. The novel also adeptly tackles important social issues, including the negative influence of toxic influencers, systemic oppression faced by women, and the complex concept of honor within some cultures.
The story follows two different cases. While I expected them to connect in a more significant way, the focus remained on the central story (i.e. Lily's case), which I didn't mind. The secondary Glassman case was left unresolved, which was a minor disappointment, not sure whether Abdullah plans to write more about that in one of her next books...
What I love about Kia Abdullah's books is that they have these twists that seem so absurd and crazy at first but then you realize that there were several tiny details throughout the book that hinted at the reveal all along. I feel like that is what makes a more memorable and prominent plot twist for me than something that comes out of nowhere with there being absolutely no way for readers to even guess at it.
June 17, 2025
Kia Abdullah never holds back—and once again, she’s floored me.
Lily and Safa were childhood best friends, but life has pulled them in different directions. Lily is now a polished daytime TV presenter, while Safa, once a rising star in journalism, is rebuilding after a fall from grace. When photos of bruises on Lily's body hit the press, Safa can’t ignore it—she reaches out. But Lily insists everything’s fine.
Then the police are called to Lily’s home… and she’s found standing beside a dead body, calmly declaring she’s guilty.
From there, the story spirals into a dark, emotionally charged mystery full of secrets, trauma, and moral grey areas. And as always, Kia’s writing is immersive. She pulls you in so completely that it’s like living inside the novel. Every setting, every line of dialogue—it’s all vivid, intense, and unsettling in the best way.
The courtroom scenes were a major highlight. I’ve always loved legal drama and this delivered in spades—the arguments, the tension, the moral dilemmas. I was constantly second-guessing myself, wondering if I really knew what was going on. I thought I’d figured it out, but I was only scratching the surface.
Safa was a standout for me—layered, determined, and quietly vulnerable. She’s dealing with more than just Lily’s case. There’s another horrifying investigation she’s following, involving a predator dubbed “The Glassman” who targets elderly women in her community—and it was just as gripping, if not more so. Honestly, I’d love a spin-off centred entirely on Safa and her work.
Then there’s Lily. Complex, damaged, deeply frustrating at times. Some parts of her backstory evoke sympathy… others make you question everything. She’s one of those characters you’re never quite sure how to feel about, and that ambiguity worked so well in the story.
The ending left me reeling—and wondering if there’s more to come. Fingers crossed for a sequel.
A powerful, thought-provoking read that delivers both emotional gut punches and razor-sharp tension. I’m already counting down to the next one.
Lily and Safa were childhood best friends, but life has pulled them in different directions. Lily is now a polished daytime TV presenter, while Safa, once a rising star in journalism, is rebuilding after a fall from grace. When photos of bruises on Lily's body hit the press, Safa can’t ignore it—she reaches out. But Lily insists everything’s fine.
Then the police are called to Lily’s home… and she’s found standing beside a dead body, calmly declaring she’s guilty.
From there, the story spirals into a dark, emotionally charged mystery full of secrets, trauma, and moral grey areas. And as always, Kia’s writing is immersive. She pulls you in so completely that it’s like living inside the novel. Every setting, every line of dialogue—it’s all vivid, intense, and unsettling in the best way.
The courtroom scenes were a major highlight. I’ve always loved legal drama and this delivered in spades—the arguments, the tension, the moral dilemmas. I was constantly second-guessing myself, wondering if I really knew what was going on. I thought I’d figured it out, but I was only scratching the surface.
Safa was a standout for me—layered, determined, and quietly vulnerable. She’s dealing with more than just Lily’s case. There’s another horrifying investigation she’s following, involving a predator dubbed “The Glassman” who targets elderly women in her community—and it was just as gripping, if not more so. Honestly, I’d love a spin-off centred entirely on Safa and her work.
Then there’s Lily. Complex, damaged, deeply frustrating at times. Some parts of her backstory evoke sympathy… others make you question everything. She’s one of those characters you’re never quite sure how to feel about, and that ambiguity worked so well in the story.
The ending left me reeling—and wondering if there’s more to come. Fingers crossed for a sequel.
A powerful, thought-provoking read that delivers both emotional gut punches and razor-sharp tension. I’m already counting down to the next one.
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