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The Unforeseen
Some fears should be ignored. Others can’t be.
Lara has spent years trying to outrun her past, and experience has taught her to recognise danger. So when she becomes convinced her sister Hannah’s life is at risk, she knows she can’t ignore it. The sisters are about to reunite at a remote cottage for their mother’s fiftieth birthday, and Lara is certain something terrible is coming.
But Lara’s deepening anxieties only reawaken old tensions. With her young daughter watching on, she must navigate a maze of past trauma and doubts. And when relationships between the cottage guests begin to unravel, the sisters discover that some threats are all too real.
As autumn leaves fall and shadows lengthen, the line between protection and destruction begins to blur. Can Lara save her sister without destroying everything—and everyone—she loves?
Lara has spent years trying to outrun her past, and experience has taught her to recognise danger. So when she becomes convinced her sister Hannah’s life is at risk, she knows she can’t ignore it. The sisters are about to reunite at a remote cottage for their mother’s fiftieth birthday, and Lara is certain something terrible is coming.
But Lara’s deepening anxieties only reawaken old tensions. With her young daughter watching on, she must navigate a maze of past trauma and doubts. And when relationships between the cottage guests begin to unravel, the sisters discover that some threats are all too real.
As autumn leaves fall and shadows lengthen, the line between protection and destruction begins to blur. Can Lara save her sister without destroying everything—and everyone—she loves?
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 11, 2026
The Unforseen is a fast paced psychological thriller throwing you into not only mysterious back stories of the characters, but also difficult family dynamics and relationships. The first chapter throws you right into Lara’s emotional turmoil, sucking you in despite missing so many pieces of the puzzle.
I found the author did a great job of showing how family dynamics look different depending on who’s telling the story. Each character did have their own clear ideas of the how and why the family relationships came to be.
I did find the characters and their backstories to not be as cohesive as I’d like. Some things seemed random and a bit forced for the plot (i.e Lara freaking out about taking pictures of her daughter when she’s old enough that you’d think this would have already been talked about between family members). There were also some points that fell flat due to some phrasing and grammatical errors (i.e The detail’s in the devil). Lastly, sometimes the chapters were so short it seemed they just covered the same fears and concerns characters had instead of moving the book forward.
Overall, the book is a solid 3/5 with an interesting plot and story that are fun to follow. The twist at the end was great and I didn’t see it coming. The book is just missing the clean and final touches that make it a smooth read.
I found the author did a great job of showing how family dynamics look different depending on who’s telling the story. Each character did have their own clear ideas of the how and why the family relationships came to be.
I did find the characters and their backstories to not be as cohesive as I’d like. Some things seemed random and a bit forced for the plot (i.e Lara freaking out about taking pictures of her daughter when she’s old enough that you’d think this would have already been talked about between family members). There were also some points that fell flat due to some phrasing and grammatical errors (i.e The detail’s in the devil). Lastly, sometimes the chapters were so short it seemed they just covered the same fears and concerns characters had instead of moving the book forward.
Overall, the book is a solid 3/5 with an interesting plot and story that are fun to follow. The twist at the end was great and I didn’t see it coming. The book is just missing the clean and final touches that make it a smooth read.
May 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 Stars
The Unforeseen by Claire Ackroyd is a tense, atmospheric psychological thriller that slowly pulls you into its web of fear, trauma, and uncertainty. From the very beginning, the story creates an unsettling feeling that something is wrong beneath the surface, and that tension never fully lets up.
Ackroyd does an excellent job exploring how past trauma can shape the way someone views the world. The main character’s fear and instincts feel believable, which makes the suspense even stronger because you’re constantly questioning what is real and what may simply be anxiety from the past. The story builds gradually rather than relying on nonstop action, but the emotional tension and mystery keep the pages turning.
One of the standout parts of this experience was absolutely the audiobook narration. The narrators brought so much emotion and atmosphere to the story that it genuinely elevated the suspense. Their pacing, tone, and ability to capture the anxiety and unease of the characters made the audiobook incredibly immersive. The tension felt sharper and the emotional moments landed harder because of their performances.
I’m giving this book 4 stars because while the slow-burn pacing may not work for everyone, the psychological depth, eerie atmosphere, and strong narration make it a very worthwhile thriller for fans of character-driven suspense. If you enjoy stories centered around buried secrets, emotional trauma, and questioning who—or what—to trust, The Unforeseen is definitely worth listening!!
The Unforeseen by Claire Ackroyd is a tense, atmospheric psychological thriller that slowly pulls you into its web of fear, trauma, and uncertainty. From the very beginning, the story creates an unsettling feeling that something is wrong beneath the surface, and that tension never fully lets up.
Ackroyd does an excellent job exploring how past trauma can shape the way someone views the world. The main character’s fear and instincts feel believable, which makes the suspense even stronger because you’re constantly questioning what is real and what may simply be anxiety from the past. The story builds gradually rather than relying on nonstop action, but the emotional tension and mystery keep the pages turning.
One of the standout parts of this experience was absolutely the audiobook narration. The narrators brought so much emotion and atmosphere to the story that it genuinely elevated the suspense. Their pacing, tone, and ability to capture the anxiety and unease of the characters made the audiobook incredibly immersive. The tension felt sharper and the emotional moments landed harder because of their performances.
I’m giving this book 4 stars because while the slow-burn pacing may not work for everyone, the psychological depth, eerie atmosphere, and strong narration make it a very worthwhile thriller for fans of character-driven suspense. If you enjoy stories centered around buried secrets, emotional trauma, and questioning who—or what—to trust, The Unforeseen is definitely worth listening!!
May 1, 2026
I read The Unforeseen in one sitting, and I have to give it credit for being an easy, fast-paced read.
I liked the dual POVs of the sisters. Seeing everything through their different perspectives really kept me engaged. The pacing was good, and I enjoyed the writing style overall. It definitely kept me entertained enough to keep turning the page.
However, this is a thriller and I enjoy being surprised. Unfortunately, the ending of this book was super predictable in my opinion. If you don't read a lot of thrillers, maybe you will be shocked, but if you are a seasoned thriller reader I think you'd find it rather lackluster.
What frustrated me the most though was the constant miscommunication. The entire plot wouldn't exist if they had just talked to each other. But I guess that's realistic, since they are sisters.
Overall, I wasn’t bored, and that’s honestly the book’s biggest strength. I never felt tempted to DNF, so it served its purpose as a solid, low-effort thriller. It would be a good palate cleanser between heavier reads, but it's not one I will probably remember in a few weeks. I would rate it 2.75, mostly because it was just fine. Not bad, not amazing, just average.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I liked the dual POVs of the sisters. Seeing everything through their different perspectives really kept me engaged. The pacing was good, and I enjoyed the writing style overall. It definitely kept me entertained enough to keep turning the page.
However, this is a thriller and I enjoy being surprised. Unfortunately, the ending of this book was super predictable in my opinion. If you don't read a lot of thrillers, maybe you will be shocked, but if you are a seasoned thriller reader I think you'd find it rather lackluster.
What frustrated me the most though was the constant miscommunication. The entire plot wouldn't exist if they had just talked to each other. But I guess that's realistic, since they are sisters.
Overall, I wasn’t bored, and that’s honestly the book’s biggest strength. I never felt tempted to DNF, so it served its purpose as a solid, low-effort thriller. It would be a good palate cleanser between heavier reads, but it's not one I will probably remember in a few weeks. I would rate it 2.75, mostly because it was just fine. Not bad, not amazing, just average.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating: 4 stars (rounded up from 3.75) / 5
The story follows Lara, a troubled woman who is trying to outrun her past, but her anxiety spirals into nightmares which she believes are prophecies. Her latest reoccuring nightmare is centered around her sister Hannah, and her possible death. The sisters reunite in the UK countryside at a cottage, to celebrate their mother's birthday, along with the people closest to them. Old tensions begin to surface, and relationships are hanging by a thread as danger looms at the door.
I'll start this off by saying that even though I haven't read a large number of mystery thrillers since I've started my reading journey, I have read a fair share of them which I've enjoyed, and it is a genre that calls to me from time to time. I quite enjoyed how the story was paced, and the dual point of views, which made it a real page-turner for me once I had enough time to focus on it entirely, having finished it in one day. I really enjoyed the characters, especially Lara, since I felt like I could relate to her in terms of her anxiety, and I commend the author for writing it in such a clear and true to form way. And Lara's main worry about her sister was written in such a way that I ended up feeling anxious with every page I turned, which means I was also guessing left and right about who the bad guy was. I won't lie, I didn't see the plot twist coming at all, and that was what made me place my rating at almost a 4 stars.
Now for the reasons as to why I didn't rate this book higher than a 3.75 aren't many, but that doesn't change the fact that it was an enjoyable read. One of the main reasons why I didn't give it a higher rating was, despite the fact that the characters were quite well written, I would've enjoyed to see the relationship between the sisters a bit more in depth to better understand the reasoning behind their feelings. I also felt like some side characters could've shown up more, and a few of the scenes seemed to me to be a little like filler scenes in terms of length. I would've liked for the dynamics of the group to be focused on just a tiny bit more since some parts felt like they could impact the story more.
Despite my minor issues with the book, it was a great story to follow, full of suspense and unexpected plot-twists which had me hooked. Both of the sister's characters were quite well written, and that helped relate and empathize with them more.
If you enjoy fast-paced and suspenseful stories, that have family drama in the middle of it all, secrets upon secrets and twists that take you by surprise, then this book is worth picking up. If you also enjoy books by Julie Clarke and Freida McFadden, then this one might be up your alley.
Thank you NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Claire Ackroyd for providing a free ARC for The Unforeseen. This review reflects my own opinions, in their most honest form.
The story follows Lara, a troubled woman who is trying to outrun her past, but her anxiety spirals into nightmares which she believes are prophecies. Her latest reoccuring nightmare is centered around her sister Hannah, and her possible death. The sisters reunite in the UK countryside at a cottage, to celebrate their mother's birthday, along with the people closest to them. Old tensions begin to surface, and relationships are hanging by a thread as danger looms at the door.
I'll start this off by saying that even though I haven't read a large number of mystery thrillers since I've started my reading journey, I have read a fair share of them which I've enjoyed, and it is a genre that calls to me from time to time. I quite enjoyed how the story was paced, and the dual point of views, which made it a real page-turner for me once I had enough time to focus on it entirely, having finished it in one day. I really enjoyed the characters, especially Lara, since I felt like I could relate to her in terms of her anxiety, and I commend the author for writing it in such a clear and true to form way. And Lara's main worry about her sister was written in such a way that I ended up feeling anxious with every page I turned, which means I was also guessing left and right about who the bad guy was. I won't lie, I didn't see the plot twist coming at all, and that was what made me place my rating at almost a 4 stars.
Now for the reasons as to why I didn't rate this book higher than a 3.75 aren't many, but that doesn't change the fact that it was an enjoyable read. One of the main reasons why I didn't give it a higher rating was, despite the fact that the characters were quite well written, I would've enjoyed to see the relationship between the sisters a bit more in depth to better understand the reasoning behind their feelings. I also felt like some side characters could've shown up more, and a few of the scenes seemed to me to be a little like filler scenes in terms of length. I would've liked for the dynamics of the group to be focused on just a tiny bit more since some parts felt like they could impact the story more.
Despite my minor issues with the book, it was a great story to follow, full of suspense and unexpected plot-twists which had me hooked. Both of the sister's characters were quite well written, and that helped relate and empathize with them more.
If you enjoy fast-paced and suspenseful stories, that have family drama in the middle of it all, secrets upon secrets and twists that take you by surprise, then this book is worth picking up. If you also enjoy books by Julie Clarke and Freida McFadden, then this one might be up your alley.
Thank you NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and Claire Ackroyd for providing a free ARC for The Unforeseen. This review reflects my own opinions, in their most honest form.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Unforeseen by Claire Akroyd was my first book from this author, and I went in with fairly high expectations. My usual go-to for suspense is Freida McFadden, whose books are known for their fast pacing and shocking twists, so Akroyd definitely had some big shoes to fill. I rounded up my rating from 3 1/2 stars as I felt the book had an unfair disadvantage. I am a Kindle rearder and the ARC formatting would only allow me to read it on my phone :( which meant I picked it up less frequently than I would have otherwise.
The story centers on Lara, a woman who has spent years trying to outrun her past and the fears that come with it. When she becomes convinced that her sister Hannah’s life is in danger, she can’t ignore the feeling. The sisters are about to reunite at a remote cottage to celebrate their mother’s fiftieth birthday, but Lara is certain something terrible is coming. As the gathering unfolds, old tensions resurface, relationships begin to fracture, and the line between protection and destruction grows dangerously thin.
I really enjoyed the structure of this book. The story unfolds day by day with alternating chapters between Lara and Hannah’s perspectives, which added an extra layer of suspense and allowed readers to see the same events through different emotional lenses.
The pacing felt steady throughout, and many of the twists were genuinely unexpected. That said, I did feel like the ending might have landed even stronger if there had been a few more subtle hints earlier in the story to help connect everything together. Some characters and plot elements also felt slightly unnecessary, particularly the infidelity subplot, which at times took attention away from what I found to be the more compelling aspects of the story—namely the exploration of trauma, the sisters’ grief over the loss of their father, their healing, and the complicated relationship between them.
Despite those minor issues, I still found this to be an engaging and suspenseful read. The atmosphere was tense, the emotional stakes were high, and Lara’s struggle with fear and memory made it easy to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The writing was excellent, and one quote that especially stood out to me was:
“I thought I’d made progress – that I’d left the worst of the fear behind – but it turns out my memory is a traitor.”
If you enjoy suspense novels that focus on family dynamics, psychological tension, and unraveling secrets, this one is worth picking up. Readers who enjoy authors like Freida McFadden, Lisa Jewell, or Rachel Hawkins will likely enjoy this story as well.
Thank you to NetGalley, Claire Akroyd, and Lake Union Publishing for providing a free ARC of this book. This review reflects my honest opinions, which are entirely my own.
The story centers on Lara, a woman who has spent years trying to outrun her past and the fears that come with it. When she becomes convinced that her sister Hannah’s life is in danger, she can’t ignore the feeling. The sisters are about to reunite at a remote cottage to celebrate their mother’s fiftieth birthday, but Lara is certain something terrible is coming. As the gathering unfolds, old tensions resurface, relationships begin to fracture, and the line between protection and destruction grows dangerously thin.
I really enjoyed the structure of this book. The story unfolds day by day with alternating chapters between Lara and Hannah’s perspectives, which added an extra layer of suspense and allowed readers to see the same events through different emotional lenses.
The pacing felt steady throughout, and many of the twists were genuinely unexpected. That said, I did feel like the ending might have landed even stronger if there had been a few more subtle hints earlier in the story to help connect everything together. Some characters and plot elements also felt slightly unnecessary, particularly the infidelity subplot, which at times took attention away from what I found to be the more compelling aspects of the story—namely the exploration of trauma, the sisters’ grief over the loss of their father, their healing, and the complicated relationship between them.
Despite those minor issues, I still found this to be an engaging and suspenseful read. The atmosphere was tense, the emotional stakes were high, and Lara’s struggle with fear and memory made it easy to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
The writing was excellent, and one quote that especially stood out to me was:
“I thought I’d made progress – that I’d left the worst of the fear behind – but it turns out my memory is a traitor.”
If you enjoy suspense novels that focus on family dynamics, psychological tension, and unraveling secrets, this one is worth picking up. Readers who enjoy authors like Freida McFadden, Lisa Jewell, or Rachel Hawkins will likely enjoy this story as well.
Thank you to NetGalley, Claire Akroyd, and Lake Union Publishing for providing a free ARC of this book. This review reflects my honest opinions, which are entirely my own.
April 18, 2026
The Unforeseen by Claire Ackroyd is everything I love about a psychological thriller with family drama and then some. This was a gripping and emotionally tense four-star read that had me completely hooked from start to finish.
The premise at the heart of this book is so compelling and unlike anything I have read in a while. Two estranged sisters, a remote countryside cottage, and a web of long-buried secrets make for such a suspenseful and emotionally rich story. It makes you feel like you are right there alongside Lara and Hannah, holding your breath as the tension slowly builds toward its explosive conclusion.
The dual perspective structure is absolutely brilliant. Bouncing between Lara and Hannah's points of view added a layered, atmospheric quality to the whole story, allowing you to see the same events through two entirely different emotional lenses in a way that felt truly immersive.
What I loved most was how the story builds its dread so deliberately. Lara's anxiety and her haunting visions are written so vividly that I found myself feeling genuinely unsettled right alongside her. The twist at the end genuinely caught me off guard, which is always such a satisfying feeling in a thriller.
A special mention must go to narrators Polly Edsell and Poppy Royana, who were simply outstanding. Having two narrators, Lara and Hannah, voice their characters separately was a perfect creative choice, and they both brought distinct personalities and emotional depth to their characters. Their performances elevated the tension and made every scene hit that much harder. A truly captivating listening experience from start to finish.
A tense, atmospheric, and deeply compelling read that lingers long after the final chapter. Highly recommend!
Pub Day: April 15, 2026
Categories: General Fiction (Adult)
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC.
The premise at the heart of this book is so compelling and unlike anything I have read in a while. Two estranged sisters, a remote countryside cottage, and a web of long-buried secrets make for such a suspenseful and emotionally rich story. It makes you feel like you are right there alongside Lara and Hannah, holding your breath as the tension slowly builds toward its explosive conclusion.
The dual perspective structure is absolutely brilliant. Bouncing between Lara and Hannah's points of view added a layered, atmospheric quality to the whole story, allowing you to see the same events through two entirely different emotional lenses in a way that felt truly immersive.
What I loved most was how the story builds its dread so deliberately. Lara's anxiety and her haunting visions are written so vividly that I found myself feeling genuinely unsettled right alongside her. The twist at the end genuinely caught me off guard, which is always such a satisfying feeling in a thriller.
A special mention must go to narrators Polly Edsell and Poppy Royana, who were simply outstanding. Having two narrators, Lara and Hannah, voice their characters separately was a perfect creative choice, and they both brought distinct personalities and emotional depth to their characters. Their performances elevated the tension and made every scene hit that much harder. A truly captivating listening experience from start to finish.
A tense, atmospheric, and deeply compelling read that lingers long after the final chapter. Highly recommend!
Pub Day: April 15, 2026
Categories: General Fiction (Adult)
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for this ARC.
April 30, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5 stars)
I went into The Unforeseen by Claire Ackroyd in the mood for a suspenseful thriller, and it definitely delivered- especially when it came to tension and twists.
The story follows two sisters, Lara and Hannah, as they reunite at a remote countryside cottage for a family gathering… which already feels like a setup for something to go wrong. Lara, in particular, is dealing with a lot of anxiety and unsettling visions, and as the story unfolds, you’re constantly questioning what’s real, what’s fear-driven, and what’s actually about to happen.
One of my favorite things about this book was the dual POV. Seeing the same events through both sisters’ perspectives added so much depth and made the family dynamics feel more layered. It also kept me guessing, because everyone seemed to have their own version of the truth.
The pacing was really solid for me. It pulled me in quickly and kept that sense of unease going throughout. There’s this constant underlying tension that builds as secrets start to surface, and I found myself flying through it just to see how everything would come together.
And the twist?? I genuinely did not see it coming, which is always a win in a thriller.
That said, there were a few moments where things felt a little less polished- some side plots didn’t feel as necessary, and I would’ve liked just a bit more development in certain relationships, especially between the sisters, to really strengthen the emotional impact.
But overall, this was a really engaging read. Atmospheric, tense, and full of family drama with a psychological edge. If you like thrillers that mix suspense with complicated relationships and a solid twist at the end, this one is definitely worth picking up.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK | Lake Union Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I went into The Unforeseen by Claire Ackroyd in the mood for a suspenseful thriller, and it definitely delivered- especially when it came to tension and twists.
The story follows two sisters, Lara and Hannah, as they reunite at a remote countryside cottage for a family gathering… which already feels like a setup for something to go wrong. Lara, in particular, is dealing with a lot of anxiety and unsettling visions, and as the story unfolds, you’re constantly questioning what’s real, what’s fear-driven, and what’s actually about to happen.
One of my favorite things about this book was the dual POV. Seeing the same events through both sisters’ perspectives added so much depth and made the family dynamics feel more layered. It also kept me guessing, because everyone seemed to have their own version of the truth.
The pacing was really solid for me. It pulled me in quickly and kept that sense of unease going throughout. There’s this constant underlying tension that builds as secrets start to surface, and I found myself flying through it just to see how everything would come together.
And the twist?? I genuinely did not see it coming, which is always a win in a thriller.
That said, there were a few moments where things felt a little less polished- some side plots didn’t feel as necessary, and I would’ve liked just a bit more development in certain relationships, especially between the sisters, to really strengthen the emotional impact.
But overall, this was a really engaging read. Atmospheric, tense, and full of family drama with a psychological edge. If you like thrillers that mix suspense with complicated relationships and a solid twist at the end, this one is definitely worth picking up.
A big thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK | Lake Union Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Unforeseen by Claire Ackroyd
This was a psychological thriller with family drama and past traumas. It was a medium-paced story that made you keep wondering when or if something was going to happen.
The main characters are sisters Lara and Hannah and the story alternates chapters from both points of view. Lara is an anxious individual that has dreams that leave her concerned for her sister’s safety. The sisters have not been in contact with one another until now. They go for a getaway with their mother for her 50th birthday. Also on the getaway is her mother’s friend and son Max as well as his current girlfriend.
The story had me wondering when the dream was going to happen. And if Lara’s past would have an effect. There was family drama and secrets that made you wonder which family member was the unhinged one.
At the end of the story, I had a suspicion that I was correct on. Don’t want to spoil it for you! You will have to read it for yourself. I enjoyed this book and would recommend it. I enjoyed the writing style and relatable anxiety and family drama. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Thank you #NetGalley and publisher for this ARC in return for reading and review of #TheUnforeseen
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a slow burn thriller that simmers until the explosion at the end when secrets are revealed and tragedy occurs.
Lara and Hannah are sisters. Hannah is returning home to England to celebrate her mother’s fiftieth birthday and Lara is anxious for Hannah having had dreams that bode darkly for her. Hannah just thinks Lara needs to up her meds. Lara at times appears unreliable but she’s holding a dark secret that if revealed could shatter the fragile ties she has with Hannah and her mom. As side subplot is the growing attraction between Hannah and Max, an ex, while she has a boyfriend at home. This thrown into the mix complicates things for Hannah.
The book is told in alternating POVs. This helps builds the tension as each of the sisters works out what they think is happening. I think Lara more well developed than Hannah but this is actually more Lara’s story than Hannah’s I believe.
This is a well written and I think the pacing is good. What fell flat for me was the thriller aspect of the story. When the confrontation moment occurs I just wasn’t prepared to accept it. I think more development was needed. Nonetheless this is a good read.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Amazon UK/Lake Union Publishing for allowing me to read this ARC.
Lara and Hannah are sisters. Hannah is returning home to England to celebrate her mother’s fiftieth birthday and Lara is anxious for Hannah having had dreams that bode darkly for her. Hannah just thinks Lara needs to up her meds. Lara at times appears unreliable but she’s holding a dark secret that if revealed could shatter the fragile ties she has with Hannah and her mom. As side subplot is the growing attraction between Hannah and Max, an ex, while she has a boyfriend at home. This thrown into the mix complicates things for Hannah.
The book is told in alternating POVs. This helps builds the tension as each of the sisters works out what they think is happening. I think Lara more well developed than Hannah but this is actually more Lara’s story than Hannah’s I believe.
This is a well written and I think the pacing is good. What fell flat for me was the thriller aspect of the story. When the confrontation moment occurs I just wasn’t prepared to accept it. I think more development was needed. Nonetheless this is a good read.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Amazon UK/Lake Union Publishing for allowing me to read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
The story takes place over 1 week with flashbacks to the long, and more recent, pasts scattered throughout. The narrative is split across the POV of both sisters, for the past as well as the present, and sometimes the point in time is presented from each viewpoint; I thought this made the story rather repetitive.
I felt as though the author could not decide whether to present a thriller or a fantasy / sci-fi story with frequent references to Hannah's visions and fears they inspired. The family / friends dynamics were realistic, along with the histories which led to this point but I thought other aspects of the novel were not, particularly Cassie's behaviours. Early references to people and events which might have been meant to build suspense were irritating as they remained unexplained for so long.
In all, I found the narrative style lacked suspense whilst making the story drag. I stuck with the book to the end, only to discover that the 'twist' was something I'd already guessed.
The story takes place over 1 week with flashbacks to the long, and more recent, pasts scattered throughout. The narrative is split across the POV of both sisters, for the past as well as the present, and sometimes the point in time is presented from each viewpoint; I thought this made the story rather repetitive.
I felt as though the author could not decide whether to present a thriller or a fantasy / sci-fi story with frequent references to Hannah's visions and fears they inspired. The family / friends dynamics were realistic, along with the histories which led to this point but I thought other aspects of the novel were not, particularly Cassie's behaviours. Early references to people and events which might have been meant to build suspense were irritating as they remained unexplained for so long.
In all, I found the narrative style lacked suspense whilst making the story drag. I stuck with the book to the end, only to discover that the 'twist' was something I'd already guessed.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Unforeseen is listed as being a psychological thriller/ mystery although it also has a bit of a supernatural flare to it as well. The story is told in dual perspective and bounces between the two sisters, Lara and Hannah and it also takes place in the past and present.
Lara has always had health issues and it's created a rift between her and her sister. She seems to suffer greatly from severe anxiety stemming from past trauma. She also has frequent dreams where bad things happen. The sisters are supposed to be meeting family for their mother's 50th birthday party, but Lara can't shake the visions/dreams that show her sister covered in blood.
Unfortunately the family dynamic is strained and once everyone is settled in at the remote cottage it doesn't take long for things to unravel and start falling apart.
If you enjoy mysteries that rely heavily on family drama and past trauma, I do think that you might enjoy this story. It's not a super deep storyline but it has some decent, albeit predictable twists.
Overall I enjoyed the story enough to consider checking out books by Ackroyd in the future.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review..
Lara has always had health issues and it's created a rift between her and her sister. She seems to suffer greatly from severe anxiety stemming from past trauma. She also has frequent dreams where bad things happen. The sisters are supposed to be meeting family for their mother's 50th birthday party, but Lara can't shake the visions/dreams that show her sister covered in blood.
Unfortunately the family dynamic is strained and once everyone is settled in at the remote cottage it doesn't take long for things to unravel and start falling apart.
If you enjoy mysteries that rely heavily on family drama and past trauma, I do think that you might enjoy this story. It's not a super deep storyline but it has some decent, albeit predictable twists.
Overall I enjoyed the story enough to consider checking out books by Ackroyd in the future.
I received a copy in exchange for my honest review..
Read
April 11, 2026This story focuses on sibling rivalry and ponders whether blood is ultimately thicker than water.
Lara, who is mother to toddler Poppy, has been unstable in her past and is now having disturbing dreams about her estranged sister, Hannah.
Social media influencer, Hannah, lives the dream with her travel vlog and gorgeous boyfriend, Chris.
The sisters will be forced to meet at their mother's fiftieth birthday celebrations in the Peak District.
Chapters are told alternately from each sister's viewpoint and we see their differing perspectives on what happened in the past and what is happening now.
This is a slowburn psychological thriller, suitably twisty and tense.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
Lara, who is mother to toddler Poppy, has been unstable in her past and is now having disturbing dreams about her estranged sister, Hannah.
Social media influencer, Hannah, lives the dream with her travel vlog and gorgeous boyfriend, Chris.
The sisters will be forced to meet at their mother's fiftieth birthday celebrations in the Peak District.
Chapters are told alternately from each sister's viewpoint and we see their differing perspectives on what happened in the past and what is happening now.
This is a slowburn psychological thriller, suitably twisty and tense.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
April 19, 2026
The Unforseen offers a nuanced look at family dynamics, with each character providing unique perspectives that enrich the story. While strong in characterization, some backstories and reactions—like Lara’s intense response to photographing her daughter—feel inconsistent, and occasional phrasing errors detract from the narrative. The plot, centered on Lara’s anxiety and nightmares about her sister, unfolds during a tense family gathering in the UK countryside. Mystery fans will appreciate the pacing, dual viewpoints, and an unexpected twist, though deeper exploration of relationships and more frequent appearances by side characters would have strengthened the story. Overall, it's an engaging thriller worth reading for those who enjoy suspenseful, fast-paced family dramas, earning a solid 3 out of 5 stars.
June 5, 2026
The story follows Lara, a woman plagued by severe anxiety and past trauma, who becomes convinced her recurring nightmares are prophetic warnings of her sister Hannah’s impending death. When the family reunites at an isolated countryside cottage for their mother’s 50th birthday, a suffocating atmosphere takes over. Old tensions quickly resurface, secrets unravel, and the line between paranoia and real danger completely blurs.
This book utilizes a brilliant day-by-day structure that alternates between Lara and Hannah's perspectives, allowing you to witness the same tense events through two completely different emotional lenses. Lara’s battle with panic is written with a raw authenticity that had me matching her anxiety page by page, constantly guessing who the threat was. I was completely blindsided by the final plot twist, which easily pushed my rating up to a solid four stars.
This book utilizes a brilliant day-by-day structure that alternates between Lara and Hannah's perspectives, allowing you to witness the same tense events through two completely different emotional lenses. Lara’s battle with panic is written with a raw authenticity that had me matching her anxiety page by page, constantly guessing who the threat was. I was completely blindsided by the final plot twist, which easily pushed my rating up to a solid four stars.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for sending me an advance review copy for my honest opinion.
Unfortunately this. was a DNF for me. I tried to stick with it for 100 pages but I was really struggling to connect with the characters. I didn’t like the way Hannah talked about Poppy’s struggle with her mental health and medication; the way she acted like Poppy’s struggle was an inconvenience. I know I DNF’ed and it might have gotten better, but it really irritated me to the point that I was no longer enjoying reading and had to put the book down for a bit.
I feel bad because I was given such a great opportunity to review an advanced copy. At the end of the day I read because I enjoy reading and this book was not letting me do that.
Unfortunately this. was a DNF for me. I tried to stick with it for 100 pages but I was really struggling to connect with the characters. I didn’t like the way Hannah talked about Poppy’s struggle with her mental health and medication; the way she acted like Poppy’s struggle was an inconvenience. I know I DNF’ed and it might have gotten better, but it really irritated me to the point that I was no longer enjoying reading and had to put the book down for a bit.
I feel bad because I was given such a great opportunity to review an advanced copy. At the end of the day I read because I enjoy reading and this book was not letting me do that.
April 22, 2026
3.75⭐️ Thank you NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the ALC!! 💗💗 and wow what a well done audio book!! I loved all the narrators, they really added a lot to the story!
This story follows 2 estranged sisters being forced together on a family trip. There’s parts I loved and parts I think could have been done better! I guessed the plot twist and overall plot of the book about 30% through but the ride was still enjoyable! Some themes this book hits on:
-unreliable narrator
-domestic abuse
-postpartum depression
-family drama
-unlikable characters
-a satisfying conclusion
Overall, if you’re looking for a new psychological thriller but don’t mind some predictable aspects, I would definitely recommend!!
This story follows 2 estranged sisters being forced together on a family trip. There’s parts I loved and parts I think could have been done better! I guessed the plot twist and overall plot of the book about 30% through but the ride was still enjoyable! Some themes this book hits on:
-unreliable narrator
-domestic abuse
-postpartum depression
-family drama
-unlikable characters
-a satisfying conclusion
Overall, if you’re looking for a new psychological thriller but don’t mind some predictable aspects, I would definitely recommend!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the eARC.
One of my favorite books of 2025/26 this 2nd book by Claire Ackroyd is as good as her 1st one, which was amazing.
Written from the viewpoint of 2 estranged sisters who get together again for their mother's 50th birthday, the tension ratchets up slowly but surely, until you cannot stop reading (even if your eyeballs are on the verge of popping out!) until the superb end.
This book blew my mind and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves mysteries, books featuring flawed, but ultimately strong female characters, toxic relationships and an ending that makes your head spin.
One of my favorite books of 2025/26 this 2nd book by Claire Ackroyd is as good as her 1st one, which was amazing.
Written from the viewpoint of 2 estranged sisters who get together again for their mother's 50th birthday, the tension ratchets up slowly but surely, until you cannot stop reading (even if your eyeballs are on the verge of popping out!) until the superb end.
This book blew my mind and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves mysteries, books featuring flawed, but ultimately strong female characters, toxic relationships and an ending that makes your head spin.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book was so thrilling to read, I absolutely loved it! When I got to the last 100 pages I could not put it down and had to keep reading until I got to the end to find out what happened.
The plot is so engaging and it really draws you in, especially with the beautiful scenery descriptions and interesting characters. I thought it was really clever the way the narrative switched from one sister’s point of view to the other’s, and their reactions, struggles and emotions came across as very realistic and relatable.
The story is paced incredibly well, with a few seeds sown early on that become apparent towards the end, as well as a huge twist that I simply did not see coming!
I would highly recommend this book, you won’t be disappointed.
The plot is so engaging and it really draws you in, especially with the beautiful scenery descriptions and interesting characters. I thought it was really clever the way the narrative switched from one sister’s point of view to the other’s, and their reactions, struggles and emotions came across as very realistic and relatable.
The story is paced incredibly well, with a few seeds sown early on that become apparent towards the end, as well as a huge twist that I simply did not see coming!
I would highly recommend this book, you won’t be disappointed.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
3.5 stars rounded up because the middle-end kept me reeled in! I won't lie, it took me quite a bit to get into the story. I did put it down a couple of times before finally pushing forward, but I’m glad I did. At times I had no idea where this story was going, but the short chapters and shifting POV between 2 sisters kept me flipping the pages. I felt like the author did a good job tying things up at the end so there wasn't too much that felt unfinished. Perfect for those who enjoy domestic thrillers with multiple POVs.
3.5 stars rounded up because the middle-end kept me reeled in! I won't lie, it took me quite a bit to get into the story. I did put it down a couple of times before finally pushing forward, but I’m glad I did. At times I had no idea where this story was going, but the short chapters and shifting POV between 2 sisters kept me flipping the pages. I felt like the author did a good job tying things up at the end so there wasn't too much that felt unfinished. Perfect for those who enjoy domestic thrillers with multiple POVs.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Claire Ackroyd’s The Unforeseen is a solid psychological thriller that nails atmosphere but stumbles on execution. The remote cottage setting creates a suitably claustrophobic vibe as Lara returns home to save her sister from a perceived threat, forcing old family traumas to the surface.
While the tension is high, the middle section drags, and some character motivations felt thin. It’s an engaging, quick read with a decent twist, but it lacks the depth needed to be truly memorable. Great for a weekend distraction, even if it doesn't quite reinvent the genre.
While the tension is high, the middle section drags, and some character motivations felt thin. It’s an engaging, quick read with a decent twist, but it lacks the depth needed to be truly memorable. Great for a weekend distraction, even if it doesn't quite reinvent the genre.
February 22, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Claire Ackroyd for the ARC of The Unforeseen ✨
2.5 stars rounded up - the setting and atmosphere was really well written, however I struggled to connect to the characters which took me out of the story a few times. It seemed like almost every person in the book had several flaws and didn’t even like each other at parts. The flashback scenes helped answer some questions I had while reading.
Unfortunately I did guess the main plot twist a few chapters beforehand, but it did play out well and provided a nice moment of sisterly love.
2.5 stars rounded up - the setting and atmosphere was really well written, however I struggled to connect to the characters which took me out of the story a few times. It seemed like almost every person in the book had several flaws and didn’t even like each other at parts. The flashback scenes helped answer some questions I had while reading.
Unfortunately I did guess the main plot twist a few chapters beforehand, but it did play out well and provided a nice moment of sisterly love.
Did Not Finish
March 20, 2026DNF at 53%
I really wanted to like this book. I kept reading far longer than I should have since it's an ARC, but I am really not enjoying it.
The chapters alternate between the sisters' points of view. They are short, and every single chapter ends with a line that is meant to be shocking...but when we return to that character's POV, nothing is happening. Rather than creating a haunting, suspenseful vibe, this is honestly just plain frustrating.
Thank you to the author and Lake Union Publishing for the advanced review copy. Unfortunately, this was a miss for me.
I really wanted to like this book. I kept reading far longer than I should have since it's an ARC, but I am really not enjoying it.
The chapters alternate between the sisters' points of view. They are short, and every single chapter ends with a line that is meant to be shocking...but when we return to that character's POV, nothing is happening. Rather than creating a haunting, suspenseful vibe, this is honestly just plain frustrating.
Thank you to the author and Lake Union Publishing for the advanced review copy. Unfortunately, this was a miss for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This books was quite different. Laura is someone I could relate with when it comes to anxiety, dreams, and being a single mother. This explores family drama, different dynamics of family and the element of psychological thriller. Parts of it was sad, the reality of these incidents happening in real life. How far would you go to protect your family? I recommend giving this one a try.
The narration was also great.
Thank you @netgalley and brilliance audio & publishing. Thank you to the author as well.
The narration was also great.
Thank you @netgalley and brilliance audio & publishing. Thank you to the author as well.
May 17, 2026
This is a fast paced thriller with a dual POV of two sisters. Laura has been running from her past. When the family gets together Laura’s anxiety is running rampant. She doesn’t know why, but she knows that something is wrong. Shes not sure what to do to keep her safe. Hannah blames her sister for all of the problems she’s had in her life. The sisters learn that they both have/had a dangerous relationship with a dangerous man. Overall this was a quick easy read. The first half was a bit slow, the middle wasn’t bad, the ending was so abrupt that I felt like I got whiplash.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This family drama thriller kept me wanting to read page after page. I enjoyed the alternating POVs that allowed you to see the problems from different perspectives. I enjoyed Hannah’s perspective more than Lara’s. Sometimes in Lara’s perspectives it was hard to distinguish at first when she was talking about the past rather than the future. The twists at the end took me by surprise and really tied the story together very well. Thank you Net Galley for my advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinions and review:
This book isn't terrible, but connecting to and caring about the characters was a stretch for me. I strongly considered pushing through because the story is decent enough. However, I set it aside for a day and did not feel compelled to return to it, so it became clear this was a book I could place in the DNF pile without feeling like I was missing anything.
This book isn't terrible, but connecting to and caring about the characters was a stretch for me. I strongly considered pushing through because the story is decent enough. However, I set it aside for a day and did not feel compelled to return to it, so it became clear this was a book I could place in the DNF pile without feeling like I was missing anything.
April 12, 2026
4.5
This book was fraught with tension and anxiety. I felt Lara’s fear and descent into madness as we crept closer and closer to the climax. And when we reached the end, it exploded into chaos.
It was fast-paced and dramatic and the ending was extremely satisfying.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing/Brilliance Audio, and Claire Ackroyd for the free review copy.
This book was fraught with tension and anxiety. I felt Lara’s fear and descent into madness as we crept closer and closer to the climax. And when we reached the end, it exploded into chaos.
It was fast-paced and dramatic and the ending was extremely satisfying.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing/Brilliance Audio, and Claire Ackroyd for the free review copy.
April 15, 2026
I can’t say I enjoyed this book, I kept reading to see if it would improve. Not until the last chapter could I really get into it. I couldn’t bond with the sisters and that always affects my enjoyment of the book if I don’t particularly like the characters.
April 27, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. Although it didn't have as many twists and turns (and murder) as I'm used to reading, it definitely kept my interest. I liked the characters. It also had a satisfying ending!
April 24, 2026
Great read
The people in this book are very relatable. I myself am a domestic abuse survivor, so things hit hard. I'm so glad there is a happy ending for almost everyone.
The people in this book are very relatable. I myself am a domestic abuse survivor, so things hit hard. I'm so glad there is a happy ending for almost everyone.
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