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The Other You
‘It will be all right,’ Nellie assured her with startling confidence.
‘I’m here to make things better. You’ll see.’
Elena and Stu are barely holding it together. Their newborn screams through the night, their nerves are frayed, and their marriage is hanging by a thread.
Then comes More a company offering an impossible solution — a clone. For a price, they can have another Elena. One who is fresh. Alert.
At first, it feels like salvation. The clone is calm, capable, perfect. But soon she starts to pick up Elena’s habits. Her voice. Her smile. And in the quiet hours of the night, something in the house begins to shift.
When the cracks finally split wide open, Elena is forced to confront a terrifying if someone takes your place, do you get to stay?
‘I’m here to make things better. You’ll see.’
Elena and Stu are barely holding it together. Their newborn screams through the night, their nerves are frayed, and their marriage is hanging by a thread.
Then comes More a company offering an impossible solution — a clone. For a price, they can have another Elena. One who is fresh. Alert.
At first, it feels like salvation. The clone is calm, capable, perfect. But soon she starts to pick up Elena’s habits. Her voice. Her smile. And in the quiet hours of the night, something in the house begins to shift.
When the cracks finally split wide open, Elena is forced to confront a terrifying if someone takes your place, do you get to stay?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 12, 2026
If I was rating books by how much I was looking forward to them pre-release, I think this would be number one. I was tracking this from the moment I finished Always on My Mind and was ready to pre-order as soon as it was available. When I got it, I couldn’t wait to get into it. With expectations like that, it usually doesn’t live up to the hype. It wasn’t as good as Always on My Mind and had a bit of a lull, but once it picked up, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
As with the previous book, I loved the world building: the way that the More Yous were being put into the world, how they came to be, the POP group being against them, etc. Despite being science fiction, it made things seem grounded in reality and more authentic. Hypothesising about how things could go wrong added to the suspense, and the impending doom was a great way to keep engagement when there was a bit of a lull in the story.
The story lull happened after a strong start, through the middle of the book, and it had me worried that I had overhyped it and was going to be disappointed. How wrong I was, because then there was an incredible twist and the last 150 pages flew by. There was a lot of drama, there were so many ways things could unfold, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. The climax was great and led to an amazing end. So, this is a little bit of a slow burn, but it’s absolutely worth it when everything takes a turn.
My biggest issue with the book was that there was the biggest, most obvious plot device ever, and it really annoyed me. To think that a big part of the book hinges on a character making a stupid and illogical decision is fine when the book has committed itself to being over the top and fun, but for a book that I was trying to seriously enjoy and had so many hopes for, it left a bitter taste in my mouth.
Overall, though, this was a very solid read, and I hope this sci-fi thriller is the next of many from Carys Green. She will be an auto-buy author from me, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
As with the previous book, I loved the world building: the way that the More Yous were being put into the world, how they came to be, the POP group being against them, etc. Despite being science fiction, it made things seem grounded in reality and more authentic. Hypothesising about how things could go wrong added to the suspense, and the impending doom was a great way to keep engagement when there was a bit of a lull in the story.
The story lull happened after a strong start, through the middle of the book, and it had me worried that I had overhyped it and was going to be disappointed. How wrong I was, because then there was an incredible twist and the last 150 pages flew by. There was a lot of drama, there were so many ways things could unfold, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. The climax was great and led to an amazing end. So, this is a little bit of a slow burn, but it’s absolutely worth it when everything takes a turn.
My biggest issue with the book was that there was the biggest, most obvious plot device ever, and it really annoyed me. To think that a big part of the book hinges on a character making a stupid and illogical decision is fine when the book has committed itself to being over the top and fun, but for a book that I was trying to seriously enjoy and had so many hopes for, it left a bitter taste in my mouth.
Overall, though, this was a very solid read, and I hope this sci-fi thriller is the next of many from Carys Green. She will be an auto-buy author from me, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
March 28, 2026
Do you sometimes get a bit fed up of feeling rushed off your feet all the time? Like you can’t keep up with all the things you need to tick off your list and have time to spare to switch off and relax?
Well in that case, imagine if a company called ‘More You’ could create an exact replica of you. A clone to come and help you in any way you wish.
Elena and Stu are struggling after the arrival of their first baby, a beautiful baby girl called Olive. She is everything they wished for but they were not prepared for the sheer exhaustion her arrival would mean. So when Stu’s mother suggests paying for the latest model of a More You clone of Elena, they decide to go for it. They call her Nellie and whilst having some reservations about it, they decide that surely the pros outweigh the cons. But when Nellie arrives, she is so uncannily like Elena that even Stu struggles to tell them apart. And when Nellie starts to talk of things only Elena could know, Elena is no longer sure they’ve made the right decision.
What if your clone wanted to become you? What if it wanted your life? Where does that leave you? Can you protect yourself from yourself?
This was such a great read! The short chapters made it so easy to keep turning the pages. A tense psychological thriller, which is so imaginative and the scariest thing is what if this was to happen in the future?! I cannot wait to read more by the author, such a brilliant style of writing and I love it when the ending of books feels so good and this one most definitely did not disappoint!!
Well in that case, imagine if a company called ‘More You’ could create an exact replica of you. A clone to come and help you in any way you wish.
Elena and Stu are struggling after the arrival of their first baby, a beautiful baby girl called Olive. She is everything they wished for but they were not prepared for the sheer exhaustion her arrival would mean. So when Stu’s mother suggests paying for the latest model of a More You clone of Elena, they decide to go for it. They call her Nellie and whilst having some reservations about it, they decide that surely the pros outweigh the cons. But when Nellie arrives, she is so uncannily like Elena that even Stu struggles to tell them apart. And when Nellie starts to talk of things only Elena could know, Elena is no longer sure they’ve made the right decision.
What if your clone wanted to become you? What if it wanted your life? Where does that leave you? Can you protect yourself from yourself?
This was such a great read! The short chapters made it so easy to keep turning the pages. A tense psychological thriller, which is so imaginative and the scariest thing is what if this was to happen in the future?! I cannot wait to read more by the author, such a brilliant style of writing and I love it when the ending of books feels so good and this one most definitely did not disappoint!!
April 17, 2026
4.5⭐️💫 Elena and Stu are barely holding it together. Their newborn screams through the night, their nerves are frayed, and their marriage is hanging by a thread. Then comes More You: a company offering an impossible solution - a clone. For a price, they can have another Elena. At first, it feels like salvation. The clone is calm, capable, perfect. But soon she starts to pick up Elena’s habits. Her voice. Her smile. And in the quiet hours of the night, something in the house begins to shift. When the cracks finally split wide open, Elena is forced to confront a terrifying question: if someone takes your place, what happens to you?
As soon as I read the synopsis for this my intrigue was alert and as soon as I began reading I was utterly captivated, finishing this in one sitting.
The idea of a clone to do all the jobs in life that you don’t want to might seem like a great idea but when you think about it further, is it really something that would be as amazing as you think? The author does a fabulous job of highlighting just how extreme this solution could be.
And yes, of course you know that something bad is going to happen - hello, it’s a thriller! - but you never quite know if your instincts are correct, the twists reveal and the short chapters making you turn those pages at a rapid speed to find out.
The ending was a little underwhelming as I felt like I wanted something more - no spoilers - but this didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this book, it definitely is one that makes you think and I for one am glad that we don’t live in a world where this is possible, AI is quite enough to deal with thank you!😂
As soon as I read the synopsis for this my intrigue was alert and as soon as I began reading I was utterly captivated, finishing this in one sitting.
The idea of a clone to do all the jobs in life that you don’t want to might seem like a great idea but when you think about it further, is it really something that would be as amazing as you think? The author does a fabulous job of highlighting just how extreme this solution could be.
And yes, of course you know that something bad is going to happen - hello, it’s a thriller! - but you never quite know if your instincts are correct, the twists reveal and the short chapters making you turn those pages at a rapid speed to find out.
The ending was a little underwhelming as I felt like I wanted something more - no spoilers - but this didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this book, it definitely is one that makes you think and I for one am glad that we don’t live in a world where this is possible, AI is quite enough to deal with thank you!😂
April 8, 2026
I found this quite interesting and it did hopd my interest for a bit. I thought of ways it could go and it sort of did but not entirely which was a change!
but what changed for me was the pacing. I just felt thst end was very abrupt and felt like so much just sped past.
but what changed for me was the pacing. I just felt thst end was very abrupt and felt like so much just sped past.
January 2, 2026
Wow, this was an excellent read. It held my attention all the way through, and I struggled to put it down at times.
Elena and Stu are struggling with their baby daughter, Olive, and the stress of juggling new parenthood with the other demands life puts on them. They debate the idea initially, but finally agree it seems like getting a clone of Elena to help them would be a sensible step. Here’s where things get interesting. Because how human is a clone? Do they have feelings? Memories? Should they have the same rights as ‘normal’ humans? And can you (should you) just dispose of them once you’re done with them?
More intriguing is the question of how you prove you are the original and not the clone when everything about the two of you is identical, and one of you has committed a heinous crime.
A twisty, intriguing plot that makes you question everything. The pace is great and the characters believable. I found myself rooting for both Elena and Nellie, and Catherine was truly horrible!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK Vintage for the ARC.
I enjoyed every minute, would definitely read more by this author. A well-deserved 5 stars.
Elena and Stu are struggling with their baby daughter, Olive, and the stress of juggling new parenthood with the other demands life puts on them. They debate the idea initially, but finally agree it seems like getting a clone of Elena to help them would be a sensible step. Here’s where things get interesting. Because how human is a clone? Do they have feelings? Memories? Should they have the same rights as ‘normal’ humans? And can you (should you) just dispose of them once you’re done with them?
More intriguing is the question of how you prove you are the original and not the clone when everything about the two of you is identical, and one of you has committed a heinous crime.
A twisty, intriguing plot that makes you question everything. The pace is great and the characters believable. I found myself rooting for both Elena and Nellie, and Catherine was truly horrible!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK Vintage for the ARC.
I enjoyed every minute, would definitely read more by this author. A well-deserved 5 stars.
April 6, 2026
All my reviews can be found at damppebbles.com
New mum, Elena, is struggling. Newborn Olive demands every second of her time, day and night. The house is a mess, and her relationship with her husband is falling apart. There is no light at the end of the tunnel. And with overbearing mother-in-law, Catherine, not afraid to criticise, Elena is rapidly approaching breaking point. But then, her husband, Stu, has an idea. A company called ‘More You’ can, for a price, create a clone. A second Elena to help with the baby and do all the things Elena just doesn’t have the time or energy to do anymore. She’s reluctant at first, but when an accident nearly causes a catastrophe, Elena decides a clone may be the only option. Nellie is fresh-faced and energetic, keen to help and fully capable. Everything Elena feels she isn’t. What Nellie sees as helping out, Elena interprets as overstepping. Boundaries are crossed, tensions rise. Suddenly, a spare part in her own home, Elena begins to wonder whether she’s invited in help, or unknowingly engineered her own replacement…
I’ve been looking forward to the release of this book, having read Carys Green’s last speculative thriller, Always On My Mind, in 2025. I do find that as a regular thriller reader, it’s good sometimes to read something a little different. Something that has a slightly different edge to it, which is what Green’s books do with aplomb. In Always On My Mind, a couple have chips implanted in their brains which transmit their most private thoughts to each other (yikes!). In The Other You, a couple pay for a clone of overwhelmed, overtired mum, Elena. Already at a bit of a low in her life, Elena then has to cope with being replaced (double yikes!). I have to say, the more books I read in this genre, the more I want to read! I find the ideas, setup and delivery utterly compelling.
Elena is an interesting character. She is struggling to cope, focusing all of her attention on the baby and leaving no time for herself, her husband or their home. Perfectly understandable. When Stuart, via his wealthy mother, comes up with the idea of a clone, Elena is immediately against the idea. But when an accident nearly ends in tragedy, she has to consider all of her options. The start of a new chapter in her life, becoming a mother, only serves to remind Elena of what she, herself, has recently lost, with the death of her mother. At the time, Elena was halfway across the world, and she will never come to terms with the fact that she wasn’t there for her own mum when she needed her the most. The grief and the guilt eat away at her, ensuring she pushes her mother-in-law further and further away. Of course, Catherine doesn’t help the situation at all. She’s obnoxious, unpleasant, judgmental, and always knows best. But she’s also lonely and longing for a time when she was the centre of her son’s world (it’s a little creepy, to be fair). I thought the dynamic between these two women was fascinating to watch play out over the course of the novel.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. The Other You is an engaging, well-plotted speculative thriller about identity, belonging, and the pressures of motherhood. The entire concept of the book is pretty shocking and quite a big undertaking by the author. It’s delivered well though, and in a compelling manner. The characters are well-written, with Nellie almost driving me up the wall with how frustratingly perfect she is. Gah! The audacity of her. Doing things she really shouldn’t be doing. There are a number of twists throughout, with one huge twist partway through the story. The whole story pivots on this one reveal, turning into something significantly darker than it originally was (and it’s a pretty dark idea to start with!). For me, this was the twist that knocked me for six. Everything else that came afterwards was a little more predictable. All in all, I enjoyed the time I spent with The Other You. It’s an intriguing, unsettling and emotional speculative thriller. Fans of domestic suspense who are looking for something a little bit different should definitely pick this one up (along with Green’s previous book). Recommended.
New mum, Elena, is struggling. Newborn Olive demands every second of her time, day and night. The house is a mess, and her relationship with her husband is falling apart. There is no light at the end of the tunnel. And with overbearing mother-in-law, Catherine, not afraid to criticise, Elena is rapidly approaching breaking point. But then, her husband, Stu, has an idea. A company called ‘More You’ can, for a price, create a clone. A second Elena to help with the baby and do all the things Elena just doesn’t have the time or energy to do anymore. She’s reluctant at first, but when an accident nearly causes a catastrophe, Elena decides a clone may be the only option. Nellie is fresh-faced and energetic, keen to help and fully capable. Everything Elena feels she isn’t. What Nellie sees as helping out, Elena interprets as overstepping. Boundaries are crossed, tensions rise. Suddenly, a spare part in her own home, Elena begins to wonder whether she’s invited in help, or unknowingly engineered her own replacement…
I’ve been looking forward to the release of this book, having read Carys Green’s last speculative thriller, Always On My Mind, in 2025. I do find that as a regular thriller reader, it’s good sometimes to read something a little different. Something that has a slightly different edge to it, which is what Green’s books do with aplomb. In Always On My Mind, a couple have chips implanted in their brains which transmit their most private thoughts to each other (yikes!). In The Other You, a couple pay for a clone of overwhelmed, overtired mum, Elena. Already at a bit of a low in her life, Elena then has to cope with being replaced (double yikes!). I have to say, the more books I read in this genre, the more I want to read! I find the ideas, setup and delivery utterly compelling.
Elena is an interesting character. She is struggling to cope, focusing all of her attention on the baby and leaving no time for herself, her husband or their home. Perfectly understandable. When Stuart, via his wealthy mother, comes up with the idea of a clone, Elena is immediately against the idea. But when an accident nearly ends in tragedy, she has to consider all of her options. The start of a new chapter in her life, becoming a mother, only serves to remind Elena of what she, herself, has recently lost, with the death of her mother. At the time, Elena was halfway across the world, and she will never come to terms with the fact that she wasn’t there for her own mum when she needed her the most. The grief and the guilt eat away at her, ensuring she pushes her mother-in-law further and further away. Of course, Catherine doesn’t help the situation at all. She’s obnoxious, unpleasant, judgmental, and always knows best. But she’s also lonely and longing for a time when she was the centre of her son’s world (it’s a little creepy, to be fair). I thought the dynamic between these two women was fascinating to watch play out over the course of the novel.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. The Other You is an engaging, well-plotted speculative thriller about identity, belonging, and the pressures of motherhood. The entire concept of the book is pretty shocking and quite a big undertaking by the author. It’s delivered well though, and in a compelling manner. The characters are well-written, with Nellie almost driving me up the wall with how frustratingly perfect she is. Gah! The audacity of her. Doing things she really shouldn’t be doing. There are a number of twists throughout, with one huge twist partway through the story. The whole story pivots on this one reveal, turning into something significantly darker than it originally was (and it’s a pretty dark idea to start with!). For me, this was the twist that knocked me for six. Everything else that came afterwards was a little more predictable. All in all, I enjoyed the time I spent with The Other You. It’s an intriguing, unsettling and emotional speculative thriller. Fans of domestic suspense who are looking for something a little bit different should definitely pick this one up (along with Green’s previous book). Recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ever since I read Always on my Mind last year, I have been wondering what this author would be delivering next... Once I eventually got over why in the heck would anyone allow themself to be cloned to help with their new born baby and just accepted that they would, I had an absolute blast reading this book... (ironically, this is pretty much how I also started my review for AomM)
Anyway, we start with Elena and Stu who are really struggling with new born Olive. She screams all the time and Elena is pretty much at the end of her tether. She has no family to help her, and really doesn't get on with Stu's mother Catherine (the feeling being mutual) so is pretty much on her own. Although she does have 3 close friends that she could have asked for help from but, if she did that, it'd be a short boring book!
Anyway... Catherine is on the board of More You, a company which offers a rather interesting product. A clone of you. Someone exactly the same. Starting off a bit green, but learning fast. Like you but not quite you as it won't have all your memories. Elena isn't keen but eventually, brow beaten by Stu and Catherine, gives in and so... enter Nellie... Exactly like Elena... What could possibly go wrong... Initially Nellie is a godsend, but soon enough things start to get complicated...
As well as a cracking story, this book also touches on what the rights for a clone should be, as well as staunch opposition to the whole shebang. I know what side of the fence I am on with regard to all this, but that debate is not for a book review.
Yes I did guess a few things early, saw a couple coming a mile off, but that's probably cos I eat sleep and breathe this genre book. Suffice to say that I didn't guess the half of it and was still floored by some of the later twists and turns. And, that ending! Perfect...
Characterisation was - shall I just say - interesting. Obviously I can't qualify that statement for fear of spoilers but, even though I really couldn't understand some of the things they did, or didn't do, everything had a meaning and I was happy to accept certain other things in exchange for a compelling overall read.
So.. with two cracking books now in her stable, and please do check out AomM if you haven't already, I really am excited to see what she has for me for next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Anyway, we start with Elena and Stu who are really struggling with new born Olive. She screams all the time and Elena is pretty much at the end of her tether. She has no family to help her, and really doesn't get on with Stu's mother Catherine (the feeling being mutual) so is pretty much on her own. Although she does have 3 close friends that she could have asked for help from but, if she did that, it'd be a short boring book!
Anyway... Catherine is on the board of More You, a company which offers a rather interesting product. A clone of you. Someone exactly the same. Starting off a bit green, but learning fast. Like you but not quite you as it won't have all your memories. Elena isn't keen but eventually, brow beaten by Stu and Catherine, gives in and so... enter Nellie... Exactly like Elena... What could possibly go wrong... Initially Nellie is a godsend, but soon enough things start to get complicated...
As well as a cracking story, this book also touches on what the rights for a clone should be, as well as staunch opposition to the whole shebang. I know what side of the fence I am on with regard to all this, but that debate is not for a book review.
Yes I did guess a few things early, saw a couple coming a mile off, but that's probably cos I eat sleep and breathe this genre book. Suffice to say that I didn't guess the half of it and was still floored by some of the later twists and turns. And, that ending! Perfect...
Characterisation was - shall I just say - interesting. Obviously I can't qualify that statement for fear of spoilers but, even though I really couldn't understand some of the things they did, or didn't do, everything had a meaning and I was happy to accept certain other things in exchange for a compelling overall read.
So.. with two cracking books now in her stable, and please do check out AomM if you haven't already, I really am excited to see what she has for me for next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoy standalone sci-fi books and was excited to dive into The Other You – a story of clones and family drama.
Elena is struggling after the birth of her first daughter, so when her mother-in-law suggests getting a clone from More You, it seems like it could be the perfect solution. Who else can you trust to parent your child, if not yourself? But is the clone a direct copy, or something more sinister?
The Other You splits perspective between new mother Elena and mother-in-law Catherine, both of whom do not get on. Catherine’s perspectives in particular are well written - displaying an unlikeable lady who feels that Elena is not good enough for her son and will do all she can to intervene and prove it. Elena’s chapters, by contrast are relatable – a young women struggling and being manipulated by her family into doing something she isn’t sure she wants to do. I was surprised how much Elena didn’t want the clone, which meant we never really got to the point where we thought this story was going to end well. Usually with stories like this, we at least have a small amount of the calm before the storm where the illusion is given that everything is ok before it shatters.
Although I did like the plot, I did feel like it was something I had read or watched before – it isn’t really a new premise. There’s a lot of the sci-fi concepts of nature vs nurture and how much of your personality is made from your memories and experiences as well, which I enjoyed. I did feel like it was very slow for the first half, but this changes abruptly at around 70% where the pace shifts and it becomes very action packed. Before this point I would have said it was a 3-star read but the last part of the book pulls it up to 4 stars with a chilling twisty conclusion which I loved.
Overall, The Other You is a chilling sci-fi - it’s a little slow to get going but worth it by the end. Thank you to NetGalley & Random House UK – Vintage – Harvill for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews check out Kindig Blog
Elena is struggling after the birth of her first daughter, so when her mother-in-law suggests getting a clone from More You, it seems like it could be the perfect solution. Who else can you trust to parent your child, if not yourself? But is the clone a direct copy, or something more sinister?
The Other You splits perspective between new mother Elena and mother-in-law Catherine, both of whom do not get on. Catherine’s perspectives in particular are well written - displaying an unlikeable lady who feels that Elena is not good enough for her son and will do all she can to intervene and prove it. Elena’s chapters, by contrast are relatable – a young women struggling and being manipulated by her family into doing something she isn’t sure she wants to do. I was surprised how much Elena didn’t want the clone, which meant we never really got to the point where we thought this story was going to end well. Usually with stories like this, we at least have a small amount of the calm before the storm where the illusion is given that everything is ok before it shatters.
Although I did like the plot, I did feel like it was something I had read or watched before – it isn’t really a new premise. There’s a lot of the sci-fi concepts of nature vs nurture and how much of your personality is made from your memories and experiences as well, which I enjoyed. I did feel like it was very slow for the first half, but this changes abruptly at around 70% where the pace shifts and it becomes very action packed. Before this point I would have said it was a 3-star read but the last part of the book pulls it up to 4 stars with a chilling twisty conclusion which I loved.
Overall, The Other You is a chilling sci-fi - it’s a little slow to get going but worth it by the end. Thank you to NetGalley & Random House UK – Vintage – Harvill for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews check out Kindig Blog
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Harvill for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
Oh I loved Carys' previous book Always On My Mind. I thought it was so original, and so I jumped at the chance to read this one.
There's a great moral question here, about humanity, cloning, even about AI. It is very timely and quite frightening.
For me, it's less about the clone being you, and more about you not being them. Sure they can help out, they look like you, think like you, and your baby will know no different. But you will. You're missing out on the cuddles and the feeding and the tucking them into bed etc.
I'm not going to pretend to know what it's like to have a newborn baby in terms of stress and sleep deprivation etc. but the idea of having, in effect, a robotic version of you, doesn't seem right for me. I'd rather be tired and have my baby than not. But again, I have not experienced it so I will not go and pretend I can tell you the same thing. There may be new mothers and fathers out there that quite like the idea of having someone else. I suppose, how is it any different to hiring a nanny?
I liked Elena and I feel she was the most real character out of them. She felt familiar and reflected my fears too. Stu annoyed me. I know he just wanted to help, but I found he was too controlling, short tempered, and just wouldn't listen to anyone. And their More You? I won't say what my opinions on her are for fear of spoilers, you'll just have to meet her yourself. The worst character to me is Stu's mum Catherine. I don't mean worst in terms of writing, but in terms of the character. She really grated and riled me up, which I suppose was the intention. She was definitely hiding something that I couldn't quite put my finger on.
It's an average length, not too short or drawn out, and it absolutely flies by. I read it in less than a day it was so absorbing, I couldn't tear myself away from it.
It's not full-on 100mph action or whatever, it's quieter, it bides its time, holds your hand, lulls yourself into a false sense of security, and it's that that makes it so eerie and uncomfortable.
I believe this is only Carys' second book but she's already become a name I gravitate towards for exciting but unusual psychological thrillers.
Oh I loved Carys' previous book Always On My Mind. I thought it was so original, and so I jumped at the chance to read this one.
There's a great moral question here, about humanity, cloning, even about AI. It is very timely and quite frightening.
For me, it's less about the clone being you, and more about you not being them. Sure they can help out, they look like you, think like you, and your baby will know no different. But you will. You're missing out on the cuddles and the feeding and the tucking them into bed etc.
I'm not going to pretend to know what it's like to have a newborn baby in terms of stress and sleep deprivation etc. but the idea of having, in effect, a robotic version of you, doesn't seem right for me. I'd rather be tired and have my baby than not. But again, I have not experienced it so I will not go and pretend I can tell you the same thing. There may be new mothers and fathers out there that quite like the idea of having someone else. I suppose, how is it any different to hiring a nanny?
I liked Elena and I feel she was the most real character out of them. She felt familiar and reflected my fears too. Stu annoyed me. I know he just wanted to help, but I found he was too controlling, short tempered, and just wouldn't listen to anyone. And their More You? I won't say what my opinions on her are for fear of spoilers, you'll just have to meet her yourself. The worst character to me is Stu's mum Catherine. I don't mean worst in terms of writing, but in terms of the character. She really grated and riled me up, which I suppose was the intention. She was definitely hiding something that I couldn't quite put my finger on.
It's an average length, not too short or drawn out, and it absolutely flies by. I read it in less than a day it was so absorbing, I couldn't tear myself away from it.
It's not full-on 100mph action or whatever, it's quieter, it bides its time, holds your hand, lulls yourself into a false sense of security, and it's that that makes it so eerie and uncomfortable.
I believe this is only Carys' second book but she's already become a name I gravitate towards for exciting but unusual psychological thrillers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Elena is a new mum, still recovering from an emergency caesarean and with baby Olive who screams through the night, she is struggling, husband Stu keeps suggesting she should let his mother Catherine help out, but Elena and her mother in law do not get on, she's never believed that Elena is good enough for her son. Then another solution is offered to Elena, a company called More You creates clones, another 'person' that will look, talk and do everything like her, she's totally against it to start with, even when Catherine says she will pay, but eventually she gives in, Nellie is created and the strain of daily life begins to lift, until Nellie tries to take over, tragedy strikes and everything falls apart...
The Other You is the futuristic tale of clones and holograms told from the perspectives of Elena and Catherine. We've all had times where we've said I've only got one pair of hands, imagine if you could have another you, a human just like you that could shoulder some of your daily life and ease the stress, would you seize the opportunity? After reading this I'm really not sure I would! How would you prove who was the real you if, like Elena's life, things go very wrong? This is a fast paced intense read, a story that is far fetched in places, but it's fiction and science fiction at that, so it's expected isn't it? Elena's story is totally relatable, having a new baby is hard enough but coupled with recovering from a caesarean makes it doubly hard and I can totally sympathise with how she struggled, add to that having to mentally accept that someone else who looks and talks like you is looking after your baby would be a hard concept to deal with. I thought this was an excellent premise, which was well written and drew me in from the start, keeping me invested throughout, with some great twists and that ending was excellent, I loved it!
I'd like to thank Random House UK, Vintage and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
The Other You is the futuristic tale of clones and holograms told from the perspectives of Elena and Catherine. We've all had times where we've said I've only got one pair of hands, imagine if you could have another you, a human just like you that could shoulder some of your daily life and ease the stress, would you seize the opportunity? After reading this I'm really not sure I would! How would you prove who was the real you if, like Elena's life, things go very wrong? This is a fast paced intense read, a story that is far fetched in places, but it's fiction and science fiction at that, so it's expected isn't it? Elena's story is totally relatable, having a new baby is hard enough but coupled with recovering from a caesarean makes it doubly hard and I can totally sympathise with how she struggled, add to that having to mentally accept that someone else who looks and talks like you is looking after your baby would be a hard concept to deal with. I thought this was an excellent premise, which was well written and drew me in from the start, keeping me invested throughout, with some great twists and that ending was excellent, I loved it!
I'd like to thank Random House UK, Vintage and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
April 19, 2026
4.5⭐️
THE OTHER YOU - REVIEW
By: Carys Green
Pr-Gifted
Thank you to @harvillbooks for this proof copy.
I read this book in under 48 hours, which is good going for me. The premise was incredibly thought provoking and engaging but also deeply unsettling (in a good thriller way). It all felt extremely possible and very much on our doorsteps 👀.
Set in a near future world where the rich and famous all seem to have a clone. Now the technology is available to the general population and as you can imagine it is causing a stir and plenty of controversy.
In this story there are organisations that have conflicting views on cloning. Some campaigning for cloning to be banned entirely and others that argue that clones should be recognised as humans and given equal rights.
In the case of Elena and Stu, they thought getting a clone was a way to help them in their current situation within their home life. But cracks started to appear quickly.
💬 Would you have a clone of yourself?
Imagine, someone to do the housework, look after the kids, go to work for you. It all seems rather tempting. But then it raises a whole host of ethical questions: is a clone a real person, with rights? What happens to your own identity if there are two of you? Is having a clone a form of exploitation? Is it humans playing god? What happens if you don’t want the clone anymore? The list goes on and on.
This story completely blurred the lines between what was real and what was artificial. My head was in a complete spin for the majority of this read. It was quite a steady build up but then towards the end the pace certainly escalated. And with the short chapters, I was turning the pages at speed.
This gave me similar vibes to the tv series Humans.
This was a brilliantly written, sharp novel with a deeply unsettling premise and engaging characters. A book I could not put down.
I definitely recommend reading this 💙
THE OTHER YOU - REVIEW
By: Carys Green
Pr-Gifted
Thank you to @harvillbooks for this proof copy.
I read this book in under 48 hours, which is good going for me. The premise was incredibly thought provoking and engaging but also deeply unsettling (in a good thriller way). It all felt extremely possible and very much on our doorsteps 👀.
Set in a near future world where the rich and famous all seem to have a clone. Now the technology is available to the general population and as you can imagine it is causing a stir and plenty of controversy.
In this story there are organisations that have conflicting views on cloning. Some campaigning for cloning to be banned entirely and others that argue that clones should be recognised as humans and given equal rights.
In the case of Elena and Stu, they thought getting a clone was a way to help them in their current situation within their home life. But cracks started to appear quickly.
💬 Would you have a clone of yourself?
Imagine, someone to do the housework, look after the kids, go to work for you. It all seems rather tempting. But then it raises a whole host of ethical questions: is a clone a real person, with rights? What happens to your own identity if there are two of you? Is having a clone a form of exploitation? Is it humans playing god? What happens if you don’t want the clone anymore? The list goes on and on.
This story completely blurred the lines between what was real and what was artificial. My head was in a complete spin for the majority of this read. It was quite a steady build up but then towards the end the pace certainly escalated. And with the short chapters, I was turning the pages at speed.
This gave me similar vibes to the tv series Humans.
This was a brilliantly written, sharp novel with a deeply unsettling premise and engaging characters. A book I could not put down.
I definitely recommend reading this 💙
March 13, 2026
Review of an Advanced Copy from NetGalley
3.75 ⭐️, rounded up
This book actually reminded me of a blend of Never Let Me Go and The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. A slightly unsettling domestic thriller with a sci fi twist.
The Other You follows Elena and Stu, new parents struggling with the exhaustion and pressure of caring for a newborn. When a company called More You offers an unusual solution, a clone of yourself to help carry the load, they decide to try it. But as the second Elena settles into their home, the line between help and replacement begins to blur.
What I liked most was the exploration of motherhood. The exhaustion, the comparisons, the feeling of not being good enough. It captures the physical and emotional toll really well and the uncomfortable truth of the lengths someone might consider going to just to get a bit of relief.
I also found the clone concept interesting, although I do wish the book had gone deeper into the ethics and the More You organisation. There was a lot of potential there that I felt was only lightly explored.
Elena frustrated me at times with how stubborn she was about accepting help, but I also completely understood her discomfort when someone else stepped in with the baby. As a mum myself, that feeling of protectiveness felt very real.
There were a couple of elements I struggled with. I couldn’t warm to Catherine at all and her attachment to her son honestly gave me the creeps. That final twist was far-fetched, but also not a shock because it was obvious from early on what the plan was.
Overall I enjoyed the uncomfortable questions the story raises about identity, motherhood, and human nature. My main issue was the ending, which felt rushed and a bit too neatly wrapped up after such an intriguing premise.
3.75 ⭐️, rounded up
This book actually reminded me of a blend of Never Let Me Go and The Hand That Rocks the Cradle. A slightly unsettling domestic thriller with a sci fi twist.
The Other You follows Elena and Stu, new parents struggling with the exhaustion and pressure of caring for a newborn. When a company called More You offers an unusual solution, a clone of yourself to help carry the load, they decide to try it. But as the second Elena settles into their home, the line between help and replacement begins to blur.
What I liked most was the exploration of motherhood. The exhaustion, the comparisons, the feeling of not being good enough. It captures the physical and emotional toll really well and the uncomfortable truth of the lengths someone might consider going to just to get a bit of relief.
I also found the clone concept interesting, although I do wish the book had gone deeper into the ethics and the More You organisation. There was a lot of potential there that I felt was only lightly explored.
Elena frustrated me at times with how stubborn she was about accepting help, but I also completely understood her discomfort when someone else stepped in with the baby. As a mum myself, that feeling of protectiveness felt very real.
There were a couple of elements I struggled with. I couldn’t warm to Catherine at all and her attachment to her son honestly gave me the creeps. That final twist was far-fetched, but also not a shock because it was obvious from early on what the plan was.
Overall I enjoyed the uncomfortable questions the story raises about identity, motherhood, and human nature. My main issue was the ending, which felt rushed and a bit too neatly wrapped up after such an intriguing premise.
March 18, 2026
Firstly a huge thank you to @harvillbooks @vintagebooks @carysgreenauthor for the proof copy of the book.
Author - @carysgreenauthor
Publisher - @harvillbooks @vintagebooks
Released - March 26th 2026 hardback - July 16th paperback 2026
Rating - 5⭐️
Official blurb - It will be all right,’ Nellie assured her with startling confidence. ‘I’m here to make things better. You’ll see.’ Elena and Stu are barely holding it together. Their newborn screams through the night, their nerves are frayed, and their marriage is hanging by a thread. Then comes More You: a company offering an impossible solution ― a clone. For a price, they can have another Elena. One who is fresh. Alert. At first, it feels like salvation. The clone is calm, capable, perfect. But soon she starts to pick up Elena’s habits. Her voice. Her smile. And in the quiet hours of the night, something in the house begins to shift. When the cracks finally split wide open, Elena is forced to confront a terrifying question: if someone takes your place, do you get to stay?
My thoughts - What the heck did I just read? THAT was amazing! There were two points in this book that stood out, one I didn’t see coming, a mid way twist where I was literally like ‘nooo….. this can’t be happening!’ And while I worked out part of what happened toward the end it didn’t take from the story for me and there was a page near the end where I said to myself ‘oh my f***** god’ 😂 this story is told from 2 viewpoints. It has a futuristic element with the clone storyline but OMG it gets you afraid for the future! I can’t say too much or it would ruin it but as a thriller fan I picked this up at every opportunity. It was unputdownable! The author is a genius! Can’t wait for her next book!
March 26, 2026
Did I enjoy this book?
Yes
Do I recommend it?
Yes!
This is one of those books that I couldn’t put down. Green builds up the tension so well, especially at the end of the story. At several points I had to put the book down and just pause to think about what happened. The characters are very well written with the protagonist just treading the edge of likable, which I think was intentional. It meant I was rotting for her but also questioning some of the choices she made. I must also mention one of the other characters, the mother in law, because I have never hated a character so much! I hope that Green wasn’t writing from personal experience.
I liked the moral and ethical side to the story and the way motherhood and parenthood was woven in as well. It created a lot of interesting questions that are becoming increasingly relevant to today’s society.
The plot was interesting and there were a few things that I didn’t see coming which is always enjoyable. Overall, this is a very good thriller that I think most people would enjoy.
Any criticisms?
I would have liked more detail on the science side of things. I had questions that I think this could have been resolved with just a little more clarity on how the cloning worked.
I didn’t enjoy the ending. I can’t say too much but I didn’t find it satisfying. I think it would have been better if the timeline of the story had just been shifted over a little bit. That way there would have been less build up at the start and we get more at the end.
Will I read it again?
Probably not but because I think I will remember it.
Will I read the sequel?
If there was one I would!
For fans of:
Yellowface
The Girl with the dragon tattoo
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven
The Calculating Stars
Yes
Do I recommend it?
Yes!
This is one of those books that I couldn’t put down. Green builds up the tension so well, especially at the end of the story. At several points I had to put the book down and just pause to think about what happened. The characters are very well written with the protagonist just treading the edge of likable, which I think was intentional. It meant I was rotting for her but also questioning some of the choices she made. I must also mention one of the other characters, the mother in law, because I have never hated a character so much! I hope that Green wasn’t writing from personal experience.
I liked the moral and ethical side to the story and the way motherhood and parenthood was woven in as well. It created a lot of interesting questions that are becoming increasingly relevant to today’s society.
The plot was interesting and there were a few things that I didn’t see coming which is always enjoyable. Overall, this is a very good thriller that I think most people would enjoy.
Any criticisms?
I would have liked more detail on the science side of things. I had questions that I think this could have been resolved with just a little more clarity on how the cloning worked.
I didn’t enjoy the ending. I can’t say too much but I didn’t find it satisfying. I think it would have been better if the timeline of the story had just been shifted over a little bit. That way there would have been less build up at the start and we get more at the end.
Will I read it again?
Probably not but because I think I will remember it.
Will I read the sequel?
If there was one I would!
For fans of:
Yellowface
The Girl with the dragon tattoo
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven
The Calculating Stars
April 12, 2026
Just because we can do something doesn't mean we should...
The Other You, the second speculative thriller from Carys Green, is set in a near future where clones have been made legal. Technology created by a company known as More You means an adult clone of someone can be grown in a lab in a matter of months, and for Elena, a new mum struggling with lack of sleep, it could be the answer to her problems. She doesn't want anyone else looking after her precious daughter, Olive. But a clone would be *her*. So she should be able to trust it... right?
It's fairly obvious before you even pick up the book that something Very Bad is going to happen. Clones, androids - whatever it is, it's always a foreboding omen in a book. But even though I sort-of expected what was going to happen here, The Other You still had me on tenterhooks throughout. There were times I had to put the book down simply because I could not deal with the anxiety of knowing what was coming. But in the best way possible: The Other You is dark, but boy, it's compelling.
Written in a very approachable style that's easy to read, the characters of The Other You aren't always likeable, but they'll keep you gripped. The mother-in-law here is nightmare material all by herself, and that's all I'm going to say on the matter. There's a cleverly interwoven smattering of politics here, too, with mention of both anti-clone protest groups and groups lobbying for clones to have more rights. It really sets the tone of a tumultuous time in the world (and we thought ChatGPT was bad enough...).
I've loved every moment of this: It's an addictive, easy read that you'll struggle to put down, even if you're dreading what's going to happen next. That's the hallmark of a good thriller, and it's left me eager to read more of Carys' work.
The Other You, the second speculative thriller from Carys Green, is set in a near future where clones have been made legal. Technology created by a company known as More You means an adult clone of someone can be grown in a lab in a matter of months, and for Elena, a new mum struggling with lack of sleep, it could be the answer to her problems. She doesn't want anyone else looking after her precious daughter, Olive. But a clone would be *her*. So she should be able to trust it... right?
It's fairly obvious before you even pick up the book that something Very Bad is going to happen. Clones, androids - whatever it is, it's always a foreboding omen in a book. But even though I sort-of expected what was going to happen here, The Other You still had me on tenterhooks throughout. There were times I had to put the book down simply because I could not deal with the anxiety of knowing what was coming. But in the best way possible: The Other You is dark, but boy, it's compelling.
Written in a very approachable style that's easy to read, the characters of The Other You aren't always likeable, but they'll keep you gripped. The mother-in-law here is nightmare material all by herself, and that's all I'm going to say on the matter. There's a cleverly interwoven smattering of politics here, too, with mention of both anti-clone protest groups and groups lobbying for clones to have more rights. It really sets the tone of a tumultuous time in the world (and we thought ChatGPT was bad enough...).
I've loved every moment of this: It's an addictive, easy read that you'll struggle to put down, even if you're dreading what's going to happen next. That's the hallmark of a good thriller, and it's left me eager to read more of Carys' work.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars rounded up.
Set in a near future ‘what if’ world, Elena is struggling to cope with newborn Olive, and feeling disconnected from her husband, Stu. When Stu’s interfering mum, Catherine, suggests getting a More You clone of Elena to help around the house and help with Olive, the couple are unsure.
Desperately exhausted, they decide to get the clone. But Elena is instantly uneasy about this fresh, new, version of her. What if the clone starts to want more from the world? How can the two of them exist together?
Ooh this was so good! The great thing about this sci-fi/Black Mirror world that Carys Green creates, is that it felt like the story could go in limitless different directions. And I had fun pondering where it might go… and being repeatedly surprised! Even when I got to the epilogue, I still couldn’t be sure how it would end.
Just thinking about the More You clones was so sinister, creepy and thought-provoking. There were so many questions raised about the ethics of the clones, and I kept wondering if something like this could really exist in future? Some of the issues are already real with how advanced AI and robots are. But with the human clones, do they have the same rights as their human ‘hosts’, or should they? What happens to them when they’re no longer wanted or needed?
I enjoyed the characters - from the very likeable and relatable Elena to her funny friends Lauren and Margot, and the complicated character of Stu’s mum, Catherine, who was both awful and stifling but also quite a sad and lonely person that I (at times!) empathised with!
Such a clever, fun, and endlessly intriguing concept, really well-written!
Set in a near future ‘what if’ world, Elena is struggling to cope with newborn Olive, and feeling disconnected from her husband, Stu. When Stu’s interfering mum, Catherine, suggests getting a More You clone of Elena to help around the house and help with Olive, the couple are unsure.
Desperately exhausted, they decide to get the clone. But Elena is instantly uneasy about this fresh, new, version of her. What if the clone starts to want more from the world? How can the two of them exist together?
Ooh this was so good! The great thing about this sci-fi/Black Mirror world that Carys Green creates, is that it felt like the story could go in limitless different directions. And I had fun pondering where it might go… and being repeatedly surprised! Even when I got to the epilogue, I still couldn’t be sure how it would end.
Just thinking about the More You clones was so sinister, creepy and thought-provoking. There were so many questions raised about the ethics of the clones, and I kept wondering if something like this could really exist in future? Some of the issues are already real with how advanced AI and robots are. But with the human clones, do they have the same rights as their human ‘hosts’, or should they? What happens to them when they’re no longer wanted or needed?
I enjoyed the characters - from the very likeable and relatable Elena to her funny friends Lauren and Margot, and the complicated character of Stu’s mum, Catherine, who was both awful and stifling but also quite a sad and lonely person that I (at times!) empathised with!
Such a clever, fun, and endlessly intriguing concept, really well-written!
April 21, 2026
3.5 stars. Elena is an exhausted new mum. In her past she’s climbed plenty of mountains before, but this one feels insurmountable. The sleep deprivation, the crying, the feeding, cleaning the house, she’s finding it impossible to manage it all. It doesn’t help that Catherine, her overbearing mother in law, is doing her utmost to interfere. She’s closely involved with the ‘More You’ company - an organisation which design clones to integrate seamlessly into family life to assist and she keeps pressing her son Stu to consider this as an answer to his and Elena’s problems.
Worn down by it all, Elena eventually succumbs, persuaded by the fact that the clone would be a copy of her and if she can’t trust herself then who can she trust? And so Nellie arrives. Calm, reassuring, helpful and supportive, Elena’s life should instantly improve. But things don’t quite go according to plan - after all if you bring someone who is completely identical into your home, what happens to you?
This is a tightly plotted, well paced, speculative thriller. The whole concept of clones is both terrifying and fascinating. As is mentioned in the book, IVF used to be viewed as unnatural, so who knows what the future could hold? I loved observing Elena and Nellie and considering the differences between them. And Catherine is a fantastic character, she really did keep me on my toes trying to work out what her game plan was.
The Other You is a thought provoking read for sure. It’s cleverly thought out and there are plenty of twists and turns which will keep you guessing all the way. It’s funny cause I still remember those knackering first few months as a new mum (to twins!) and how there weren’t enough hours in the day. Hell, fifteen years later I still complain that there needs to be two or three of me to get all the jobs done. I might not say that so often after reading this!
Worn down by it all, Elena eventually succumbs, persuaded by the fact that the clone would be a copy of her and if she can’t trust herself then who can she trust? And so Nellie arrives. Calm, reassuring, helpful and supportive, Elena’s life should instantly improve. But things don’t quite go according to plan - after all if you bring someone who is completely identical into your home, what happens to you?
This is a tightly plotted, well paced, speculative thriller. The whole concept of clones is both terrifying and fascinating. As is mentioned in the book, IVF used to be viewed as unnatural, so who knows what the future could hold? I loved observing Elena and Nellie and considering the differences between them. And Catherine is a fantastic character, she really did keep me on my toes trying to work out what her game plan was.
The Other You is a thought provoking read for sure. It’s cleverly thought out and there are plenty of twists and turns which will keep you guessing all the way. It’s funny cause I still remember those knackering first few months as a new mum (to twins!) and how there weren’t enough hours in the day. Hell, fifteen years later I still complain that there needs to be two or three of me to get all the jobs done. I might not say that so often after reading this!
Read
March 31, 2026Just when I think everything has been done with domestic psychological suspense along comes this curveball. It contains thriller tropes like the meddlesome mother-in-law in The Girlfriend and the dubious nanny in The Hand That Rocks the Cradle but served with a rich helping of The Stepford Wives speculative fiction.
Elena, mum to newborn Olive, is struggling with exhaustion. Her interfering mother-in-law, Caroline, advises her son, Stu, to obtain a More You clone to help his wife. Caroline has invested in a company that clones people – such as pop stars – to help with workload.
Between them, Stu and Caroline persuade Elena to get herself cloned so that two Elenas can share the burden of motherhood and housework. They argue it will be less disruptive for Olive than having a nanny. But when the clone arrives, she’s Elena’s double in every way, and Elena grows suspicious of the clone’s intentions.
I thought I had the measure of where the story was going until it twisted off somewhere I wasn’t expecting and notched up another level of suspense. The writing is invisibly good, i.e. it flows at pace without unnecessary literary clever-clogginess.
Readers of John Marrs’s Dark Future books will delight in this, as will psychological thriller readers looking for something a little different. It would be ideal for Netflix too.
This is an independent review of an early copy. With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity.
Elena, mum to newborn Olive, is struggling with exhaustion. Her interfering mother-in-law, Caroline, advises her son, Stu, to obtain a More You clone to help his wife. Caroline has invested in a company that clones people – such as pop stars – to help with workload.
Between them, Stu and Caroline persuade Elena to get herself cloned so that two Elenas can share the burden of motherhood and housework. They argue it will be less disruptive for Olive than having a nanny. But when the clone arrives, she’s Elena’s double in every way, and Elena grows suspicious of the clone’s intentions.
I thought I had the measure of where the story was going until it twisted off somewhere I wasn’t expecting and notched up another level of suspense. The writing is invisibly good, i.e. it flows at pace without unnecessary literary clever-clogginess.
Readers of John Marrs’s Dark Future books will delight in this, as will psychological thriller readers looking for something a little different. It would be ideal for Netflix too.
This is an independent review of an early copy. With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity.
April 4, 2026
The Other You follows Elena and Stu, who are barely holding it together as new parents. Until More You offers an impossible solution - a clone of Elena. At first, it feels like salvation. The clone is calm, capable, perfect. But soon she starts to pick up Elena’s habits, and something in the house begins to shift. When the cracks finally split wide open, Elena is forced to confront a terrifying question: if someone takes your place, what happens to you?
The Other You is a taut, brilliantly executed psychological thriller. It’s an unsettling, almost frightening read that provokes compelling questions around morality, cloning, and humanity.
The pacing is fantastic, driven by short, gripping chapters that make it impossible to put down. The twists intensify that tension and keep you guessing, but the story really keeps you on edge with the constant eerie, uncomfortable atmosphere that runs throughout.
The narrative is captivating, built on a unique premise and masterful character development. I loved Elena’s character, and I found myself rooting for her the entire time, even as the boundaries between her and Nellie started to blur. When this did happen, Nellie’s character became very sinister, and at times she made me genuinely uneasy. Catherine, on the other hand, was impossible to like. I despised her character, but that is a testament to how powerfully she was written to evoke such a strong reaction.
The ending was a perfect, satisfying conclusion to an already gripping story, and I’m already looking forward to whatever Carys Green writes next!
Thank you so much to Harvill Books for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
The Other You is a taut, brilliantly executed psychological thriller. It’s an unsettling, almost frightening read that provokes compelling questions around morality, cloning, and humanity.
The pacing is fantastic, driven by short, gripping chapters that make it impossible to put down. The twists intensify that tension and keep you guessing, but the story really keeps you on edge with the constant eerie, uncomfortable atmosphere that runs throughout.
The narrative is captivating, built on a unique premise and masterful character development. I loved Elena’s character, and I found myself rooting for her the entire time, even as the boundaries between her and Nellie started to blur. When this did happen, Nellie’s character became very sinister, and at times she made me genuinely uneasy. Catherine, on the other hand, was impossible to like. I despised her character, but that is a testament to how powerfully she was written to evoke such a strong reaction.
The ending was a perfect, satisfying conclusion to an already gripping story, and I’m already looking forward to whatever Carys Green writes next!
Thank you so much to Harvill Books for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
April 7, 2026
Synopsis-Elena and Stu are barely holding it together. Their newborn screams through the night, their nerves are frayed, and their marriage is hanging by a thread.
Then comes More You: a company offering an impossible solution — a clone. For a price, they can have another Elena. One who is fresh. Alert.
At first, it feels like salvation. The clone is calm, capable, perfect. But soon she starts to pick up Elena’s habits. Her voice. Her smile. And in the quiet hours of the night, something in the house begins to shift.
When the cracks finally split wide open, Elena is forced to confront a terrifying question: if someone takes your place, what happens to you?
#mythoughts Elena is struggling as a first-time mother, overwhelmed by exhaustion and the relentless demands of a newborn. Stu, along with his mother Catherine ( who Elena cannot bare) , suggests bringing in help—through a company that offers something extraordinary: a ‘human’ replica. Enter Nellie, an exact copy of Elena.
But Nellie isn’t quite what she seems. The company has clearly pushed their experimentation further than expected, and there’s something subtly unsettling about her presence.
As life begins to stabilise, Elena is finally able to rest, trusting Nellie to care for their daughter, Olive. Yet as the novel unfolds, the similarities between the two women become increasingly unnerving—so much so that even Stu struggles to tell them apart.
When tragedy strikes, everything shifts. Elena must fight to prove who she really is and protect her child.
Is Nellie trying to take over her life—or is she truly there to help?
A tense and thought-provoking story that explores identity, motherhood, and the unsettling possibilities of human replication.
Then comes More You: a company offering an impossible solution — a clone. For a price, they can have another Elena. One who is fresh. Alert.
At first, it feels like salvation. The clone is calm, capable, perfect. But soon she starts to pick up Elena’s habits. Her voice. Her smile. And in the quiet hours of the night, something in the house begins to shift.
When the cracks finally split wide open, Elena is forced to confront a terrifying question: if someone takes your place, what happens to you?
#mythoughts Elena is struggling as a first-time mother, overwhelmed by exhaustion and the relentless demands of a newborn. Stu, along with his mother Catherine ( who Elena cannot bare) , suggests bringing in help—through a company that offers something extraordinary: a ‘human’ replica. Enter Nellie, an exact copy of Elena.
But Nellie isn’t quite what she seems. The company has clearly pushed their experimentation further than expected, and there’s something subtly unsettling about her presence.
As life begins to stabilise, Elena is finally able to rest, trusting Nellie to care for their daughter, Olive. Yet as the novel unfolds, the similarities between the two women become increasingly unnerving—so much so that even Stu struggles to tell them apart.
When tragedy strikes, everything shifts. Elena must fight to prove who she really is and protect her child.
Is Nellie trying to take over her life—or is she truly there to help?
A tense and thought-provoking story that explores identity, motherhood, and the unsettling possibilities of human replication.
March 29, 2026
4.5 🌟
'You invited her in. Now she wants your life.'
This is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that explores a chillingly plausible vision of the near future with advances in AI and cloning.
The story follows Elena, a new mother overwhelmed by exhaustion and the relentless demands of caring for her baby. At the urging of her husband, Stu, and her mother-in-law, she turns to More You: a company offering an extraordinary solution: a perfect human clone. With an exact replica of herself to share the burden, Elena can finally rest while 'the other her' takes care of the baby and the household.
But what happens if the clone is too similar and even becomes a better version of you?
I found this novel completely absorbing from start to finish. While some elements stretch the imagination, the central premise feels unsettlingly realistic, making the story all the more impactful. The plot is full of twists and turns, and I genuinely couldn’t predict where it was heading.
As someone who loves dystopian and futuristic thrillers, this book was so good! It also raised fascinating ethical questions- if a clone can think, feel, and remember, should they have rights of their own?
This is a highly original and compelling thriller. I’ve already ordered her debut, 'Always On My Mind', which sounds just as intriguing.
'You invited her in. Now she wants your life.'
This is a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that explores a chillingly plausible vision of the near future with advances in AI and cloning.
The story follows Elena, a new mother overwhelmed by exhaustion and the relentless demands of caring for her baby. At the urging of her husband, Stu, and her mother-in-law, she turns to More You: a company offering an extraordinary solution: a perfect human clone. With an exact replica of herself to share the burden, Elena can finally rest while 'the other her' takes care of the baby and the household.
But what happens if the clone is too similar and even becomes a better version of you?
I found this novel completely absorbing from start to finish. While some elements stretch the imagination, the central premise feels unsettlingly realistic, making the story all the more impactful. The plot is full of twists and turns, and I genuinely couldn’t predict where it was heading.
As someone who loves dystopian and futuristic thrillers, this book was so good! It also raised fascinating ethical questions- if a clone can think, feel, and remember, should they have rights of their own?
This is a highly original and compelling thriller. I’ve already ordered her debut, 'Always On My Mind', which sounds just as intriguing.
November 16, 2025
The Other You is a taut, eerie meditation on identity, motherhood, and the unnerving cost of convenience. Carys Green delivers a speculative thriller that slips under your skin and lingers there, whispering questions long after the final page.
Elena and Stu are unraveling—new parenthood has frayed their nerves, their marriage, and their sense of self. Enter More You: a company offering a chillingly simple solution. A clone. A second Elena. One who doesn’t cry from exhaustion or flinch at 3 a.m. feedings. One who is, in every way, better. Until she isn’t.
Green’s prose is spare but charged, like a live wire humming beneath the surface. The domestic setting—so familiar, so intimate—becomes a crucible for dread. As the clone begins to mirror Elena’s gestures, her voice, her very essence, the novel asks: what happens when the self is outsourced? And if someone takes your place… do you get to stay?
This is a story for fans of Black Mirror and The Push—a psychological thriller with a speculative twist, rooted in the raw, aching truths of early motherhood. It’s not just about what we’re willing to give up for peace. It’s about what we risk losing when we do.
My thanks to Carys Green, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
Elena and Stu are unraveling—new parenthood has frayed their nerves, their marriage, and their sense of self. Enter More You: a company offering a chillingly simple solution. A clone. A second Elena. One who doesn’t cry from exhaustion or flinch at 3 a.m. feedings. One who is, in every way, better. Until she isn’t.
Green’s prose is spare but charged, like a live wire humming beneath the surface. The domestic setting—so familiar, so intimate—becomes a crucible for dread. As the clone begins to mirror Elena’s gestures, her voice, her very essence, the novel asks: what happens when the self is outsourced? And if someone takes your place… do you get to stay?
This is a story for fans of Black Mirror and The Push—a psychological thriller with a speculative twist, rooted in the raw, aching truths of early motherhood. It’s not just about what we’re willing to give up for peace. It’s about what we risk losing when we do.
My thanks to Carys Green, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Any busy woman would love to have another one of her, right? It's something women joke about all the time; 'there's only one of me!", but what if you actually had the opportunity to clone yourself?
Elena and Stu are at their wits end after the birth of their daughter, Olive, and with no family support, they somewhat reluctantly agree to Stu's mother's insistence that a "More You" clone of Elena is the answer. a strange insistence, considering that Elena and her mother in law share an intense dislike of each other. Elena's "More You', Nellie, is absolute perfection; she is Elena, but not frazzled and exhausted.
There are several moral issues here, one being whether a clone is a human and therefore has rights or not? Does a clone have desires? And if so, will they desire the same person as the original they were modelled from? And as the clone increases it's learned behaviour and becomes closer and closer to the original, what happens when nobody can tell them apart, even those closest to them?
This was an absolute page-turner and the character development was outstanding. I was gripped right up until the ending - which was absolutely not what I was expecting! Brilliant!
5⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Carys Green and Random House, Vintage for an ARC of this book.
Elena and Stu are at their wits end after the birth of their daughter, Olive, and with no family support, they somewhat reluctantly agree to Stu's mother's insistence that a "More You" clone of Elena is the answer. a strange insistence, considering that Elena and her mother in law share an intense dislike of each other. Elena's "More You', Nellie, is absolute perfection; she is Elena, but not frazzled and exhausted.
There are several moral issues here, one being whether a clone is a human and therefore has rights or not? Does a clone have desires? And if so, will they desire the same person as the original they were modelled from? And as the clone increases it's learned behaviour and becomes closer and closer to the original, what happens when nobody can tell them apart, even those closest to them?
This was an absolute page-turner and the character development was outstanding. I was gripped right up until the ending - which was absolutely not what I was expecting! Brilliant!
5⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Carys Green and Random House, Vintage for an ARC of this book.
March 24, 2026
Elena has just had a baby and is barely holding it together, with her marriage also struggling. When an offer comes in to help solve the issue, a clone of Elena, it feels like the solution she needed. As the clone picks up more of Elena’s habits, cracks begin to form. Elena has to confront the question: if someone takes your place, then what happens to you?
I really enjoyed Always on My Mind by this author and liked the original, speculative fiction element of it, so was excited to see another story in a similar format. This ended up being another thought provoking novel, with an interesting focus. The story raises some scary scenarios and I enjoyed seeing how it played out.
Even though there was a lot I liked about this book, there were a few things I didn’t so much. I found that I didn’t love the characters, finding them difficult to connect with. The pacing was quite slow and repetitive at times, while the ending felt a bit rushed. Overall though, this was another intriguing story and would make for a good book club discussion. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
I really enjoyed Always on My Mind by this author and liked the original, speculative fiction element of it, so was excited to see another story in a similar format. This ended up being another thought provoking novel, with an interesting focus. The story raises some scary scenarios and I enjoyed seeing how it played out.
Even though there was a lot I liked about this book, there were a few things I didn’t so much. I found that I didn’t love the characters, finding them difficult to connect with. The pacing was quite slow and repetitive at times, while the ending felt a bit rushed. Overall though, this was another intriguing story and would make for a good book club discussion. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
The Other You by Cary’s Green is a compelling and introspective novel that explores identity, choice, and the quiet moments that shape who we become. The story draws readers in with its emotional depth, encouraging reflection on the paths not taken and the versions of ourselves that might have existed under different circumstances.
Green’s writing style is engaging and atmospheric, making it easy to connect with the characters and their inner conflicts. The themes of self-discovery and personal growth are handled with sensitivity, and the narrative invites readers to question how much control we truly have over our lives versus how much is shaped by chance.
While some parts of the story move more slowly, this pacing allows the emotional weight of the novel to fully settle, adding to its impact. Overall, The Other You is a thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who enjoys character-driven stories and reflective fiction. It lingers in the mind long after the final page, making it a meaningful and memorable book.
Green’s writing style is engaging and atmospheric, making it easy to connect with the characters and their inner conflicts. The themes of self-discovery and personal growth are handled with sensitivity, and the narrative invites readers to question how much control we truly have over our lives versus how much is shaped by chance.
While some parts of the story move more slowly, this pacing allows the emotional weight of the novel to fully settle, adding to its impact. Overall, The Other You is a thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who enjoys character-driven stories and reflective fiction. It lingers in the mind long after the final page, making it a meaningful and memorable book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Other You (Kindle Edition) a chilling psychological futuristic thriller by Carys Green.
Elena and Stu are stressed out with their newborn colicky daughter Olive. Stu's Mum Catherine suggests that she purchases on their behalf a "More You." from a company called More You which produces a perfect clone of Elena, who becomes more than a live in nanny for both of them.
Elena and Stu name her Nellie. Nellie is Elena's doppelganger and mimics everything about Elena to the point that Stu can hardly tell them apart and an action on Stu's part threatens their marriage.
Catherine has disliked Elena from the start and hopes she can get to see more of her grandaughter by gifting Elena's clone to them.
Protectors Of Purity P.O.P protest against More You and their production of clones which they believe will lead to risk the world becoming overrun by clones.
Doppelganger in German means double-goer. If you were erased will anyone notice? Nellie a state of the art clone makes Elena feel vulnerable to the point that Nellie is taking over.
Elena and Stu are stressed out with their newborn colicky daughter Olive. Stu's Mum Catherine suggests that she purchases on their behalf a "More You." from a company called More You which produces a perfect clone of Elena, who becomes more than a live in nanny for both of them.
Elena and Stu name her Nellie. Nellie is Elena's doppelganger and mimics everything about Elena to the point that Stu can hardly tell them apart and an action on Stu's part threatens their marriage.
Catherine has disliked Elena from the start and hopes she can get to see more of her grandaughter by gifting Elena's clone to them.
Protectors Of Purity P.O.P protest against More You and their production of clones which they believe will lead to risk the world becoming overrun by clones.
Doppelganger in German means double-goer. If you were erased will anyone notice? Nellie a state of the art clone makes Elena feel vulnerable to the point that Nellie is taking over.
November 13, 2025
Delightful. Disingenuous? Disconcerting!!
Honestly, this book had me questioning every life choice — including whether cloning myself would be genius or a catastrophic lapse in judgement.
Because here’s the truth: new parents can prep all they want, but nothing — nothing — actually prepares you for what’s coming.
So throwing a shiny, top-of-the-line clone into the chaos? Spectacularly bad idea. Hilarious for the rest of us, though.
“More Me?” Absolutely not.
“More You?” Well… it could hardly make things worse.
“The Other You” is a ride-and-a-half: twisty, clever, smugly well-plotted, and packed with characters you’ll adore, despise, or want to politely shove out a window. In short? A blast.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK Vintage for the ARC of “The Other You” by Carys Green.
Honestly, this book had me questioning every life choice — including whether cloning myself would be genius or a catastrophic lapse in judgement.
Because here’s the truth: new parents can prep all they want, but nothing — nothing — actually prepares you for what’s coming.
So throwing a shiny, top-of-the-line clone into the chaos? Spectacularly bad idea. Hilarious for the rest of us, though.
“More Me?” Absolutely not.
“More You?” Well… it could hardly make things worse.
“The Other You” is a ride-and-a-half: twisty, clever, smugly well-plotted, and packed with characters you’ll adore, despise, or want to politely shove out a window. In short? A blast.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Random House UK Vintage for the ARC of “The Other You” by Carys Green.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a page turner this was! My first book by this author but will search out her first novel.
This story made me feel so uncomfortable! Some people describe it as Sci-fi but I feel it is becoming a possibility!
The story itself explores cloning and people's attitudes. Any mother knows that a new baby in the house causes mayhem but Elena is exhausted and pressured by her husband Stu - who is pressured by his mother Catherine! Everyone has their own agenda and this adds to the interest of the tale.
I read late into the night to finish this story - a little disappointed as I felt the end was a little rushed and the detail the rest of the book had was lost and glossed over.
Nevertheless it deserves 4 stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley/Carys Green/Random House UK for a digital copy of this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
This story made me feel so uncomfortable! Some people describe it as Sci-fi but I feel it is becoming a possibility!
The story itself explores cloning and people's attitudes. Any mother knows that a new baby in the house causes mayhem but Elena is exhausted and pressured by her husband Stu - who is pressured by his mother Catherine! Everyone has their own agenda and this adds to the interest of the tale.
I read late into the night to finish this story - a little disappointed as I felt the end was a little rushed and the detail the rest of the book had was lost and glossed over.
Nevertheless it deserves 4 stars!
Many thanks to Netgalley/Carys Green/Random House UK for a digital copy of this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 31, 2026
“Be You… but More!”
This book is a real page turner - I always wanted to know what was coming next! It also frustrated me so much because the characters were so human and their troubles so real.
Elena and Stu are new parents and are struggling! Keeping their new daughter alive and happy whilst Stu’s out working full time Elena is surviving without help or sleep and it’s taking its toll. The idea of trusting strangers feels like failure.
But there’s a solution from More - clones. Who would you trust to help more than yourself? Elena starts to think it won’t hurt… just for a short time right?
This thriller explores the struggles of motherhood, grief, societal pressure, and how an ever changing world is opening up some ever so tempting ideas.
This book is a real page turner - I always wanted to know what was coming next! It also frustrated me so much because the characters were so human and their troubles so real.
Elena and Stu are new parents and are struggling! Keeping their new daughter alive and happy whilst Stu’s out working full time Elena is surviving without help or sleep and it’s taking its toll. The idea of trusting strangers feels like failure.
But there’s a solution from More - clones. Who would you trust to help more than yourself? Elena starts to think it won’t hurt… just for a short time right?
This thriller explores the struggles of motherhood, grief, societal pressure, and how an ever changing world is opening up some ever so tempting ideas.
April 17, 2026
Thoroughly enjoyed this one! I loved the original storyline, short chapters, and mixed media format. At times it reminded me of John Marrs speculative fiction books, another author who I love!
In this one we follow Elena and Stu, who are parents to a newborn. Elena feels like she is struggling so she enlists the help of a clone from a company called More You. It felt like something that could be frighteningly real one day!
Whilst there weren’t really any twists, this was still a gripping thriller that I couldn’t put down!
I was a little undecided what to rate this one, but I honestly couldn’t fault it! I loved everything about the story and it wrapped up perfectly, with a satisfying conclusion. I’ll 100% be reading more books from this author.
The book is out now, but a huge thank you to the publisher for sending me the advanced proof copy.
All opinions here are my own.
In this one we follow Elena and Stu, who are parents to a newborn. Elena feels like she is struggling so she enlists the help of a clone from a company called More You. It felt like something that could be frighteningly real one day!
Whilst there weren’t really any twists, this was still a gripping thriller that I couldn’t put down!
I was a little undecided what to rate this one, but I honestly couldn’t fault it! I loved everything about the story and it wrapped up perfectly, with a satisfying conclusion. I’ll 100% be reading more books from this author.
The book is out now, but a huge thank you to the publisher for sending me the advanced proof copy.
All opinions here are my own.
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