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Believe
A woman wronged and the detective investigating her husband’s suspected crime must work through a chilling and puzzling case in this twisty dual-narrator thriller where nothing is as it seems, perfect for fans of Hayley Scrivener and Lisa Jewell.
Natalie Campbell loses time. She’ll wake up in different places with no memory of how she got there. The blackouts are a symptom of her PTSD, which began after she was sexually assaulted by her boss, who was found not guilty. But she found ways to cope by setting up routines and marrying her supportive husband, Ryan. Then one day, her husband is accused of committing the same crime that ruined her life.
Natalie desperately wants to believe he is innocent, but when Alice Lytton, the young woman who accused him, is found murdered in the woods near their house, she begins to doubt the man she married.
DI Helen Stratton is also healing from old wounds. Her older sister disappeared when she was 16, and the police didn’t bother to investigate. Vowing to help other lost and vulnerable girls, she joined the force. Stratton is ready to do whatever it takes to catch the killer and bring justice to her sister and Alice.
Tightly plotted, fast-paced, and addictive, Believe will keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering if anyone is to be believed.
Natalie Campbell loses time. She’ll wake up in different places with no memory of how she got there. The blackouts are a symptom of her PTSD, which began after she was sexually assaulted by her boss, who was found not guilty. But she found ways to cope by setting up routines and marrying her supportive husband, Ryan. Then one day, her husband is accused of committing the same crime that ruined her life.
Natalie desperately wants to believe he is innocent, but when Alice Lytton, the young woman who accused him, is found murdered in the woods near their house, she begins to doubt the man she married.
DI Helen Stratton is also healing from old wounds. Her older sister disappeared when she was 16, and the police didn’t bother to investigate. Vowing to help other lost and vulnerable girls, she joined the force. Stratton is ready to do whatever it takes to catch the killer and bring justice to her sister and Alice.
Tightly plotted, fast-paced, and addictive, Believe will keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering if anyone is to be believed.
384 pages, Hardcover
Published June 19, 2025
126 people are currently reading
2204 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Govett
1 book44 followersS. Govett graduated from Oxford University with a First in Law. She qualified as a solicitor in a top London law firm but soon grew disenchanted with the corporate world. She set up her own tutoring agency which gave her the idea for her first YA novel The Territory. The Territory won the TSBA in 2018 and the Gateshead Teen Book Award and the trilogy still frequently tops the most borrowed books lists in British school libraries. She has written other Young Adult novels, including the TSBA-shortlisted We Go On Forever and co-wrote the feature film - T.I.M. – a thriller which premiered on Netflix UK in August 2023, reaching number one in their most watched films list. She lives in London with her husband and three children.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews
February 1, 2025
A decade ago Natalie went through a traumatic experience after which she was not believed and her assailant found innocent; so when her loving husband is accused of the very same crime, Natalie knows she should believe the woman, but has her loyalty hugely torn, especially as the evidence keeps piling up against her husband!. Told from the view of Natalie and one of the female investigating officers, this one does not let up, but I have to admit the twist didn't really work for me, although I can imagine it would be a huge hit in an adaption. I didn't buy it at all. On the other hand this very well deals with the issue of women from a lifelong experience with a man, having a fair and reasonable belief in their innocence, when they are accused of assaulting a woman. A book of this age, with S.M. Govett giving a voice to those women that struggle to disbelieve accused men that they have contrary very positive, if not, actually uplifting experiences with. An 8 out of 12, Four Stars for this book very kindly sent to me in exchange for a fair review by the author's publishers on her request.
2025 read
2025 read
June 6, 2025
Thank you crooked lane books for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest feedback
Publishes June 10th - 4.5 stars
This book left my head spinning. It’s one of those books that made me come up with so many different theories that ultimately I couldn’t make sense of any of them. At a certain point I latched onto my final theory and was feeling disappointed that I was probably correct, but thank goodness I was so completely and utterly wrong.
This book flip flops between Natalie as she deals with her own trauma while also managing her husband’s accused crimes and DI Stratton who is investigating the case as she handles the loss of her missing sister.
I thought this book was well plotted, did an excellent job with misdirection, gave me enough background and character development to care, was intricate but not confusing, and ultimately blew my mind.
Video review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjbNFLWA/
Publishes June 10th - 4.5 stars
This book left my head spinning. It’s one of those books that made me come up with so many different theories that ultimately I couldn’t make sense of any of them. At a certain point I latched onto my final theory and was feeling disappointed that I was probably correct, but thank goodness I was so completely and utterly wrong.
This book flip flops between Natalie as she deals with her own trauma while also managing her husband’s accused crimes and DI Stratton who is investigating the case as she handles the loss of her missing sister.
I thought this book was well plotted, did an excellent job with misdirection, gave me enough background and character development to care, was intricate but not confusing, and ultimately blew my mind.
Video review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjbNFLWA/
March 13, 2025
Title is simply ‘Believe’ in the UK
4-5 stars rounded up
Another letter arrives for Natalie. Two unpleasant words. She struggles greatly with anxiety following a trauma 10 years ago and Natalie knows they’ll be another letter because she’s still out there. When her husband Ryan is accused of the same crime that causes all Natalie‘s issues, she wants to believe he’s innocent, but can she?
Ooh la la, this is a cracking debut and most definitely a novel that’s right up my street. First of all, it’s very well written with the dual points of view flowing well. Natalie‘s perspective is sensitively approached although you feel her trauma and its after effects and obviously sympathise with her. There’s a lot of pain in Stratton‘s point of view too, and she has a lot going on in her life as well as a taxing job. I like the partnership of Stratton and ‘Fastrack’ a.k.a. DC Bradley as they’re chalk and cheese which certainly makes for interesting reading which positively crackles at times. All the characters are well portrayed, feeling authentic and believable.
The novel is very absorbing as it has a fast paced, multi layered plot which makes for never a dull moment. There are shocks are aplenty, multiple secrets and lies, red herrings and investigative blind alleys. It’s suspenseful and tense which builds and builds with many twists and turns to more than satisfy readers of this genre. There’s one that is especially good and comes right out of the blue, it’s so unexpected. Well played!
I sincerely hope that this is the start of a new series and if so, I’m all in. I can highly recommend this psychological thriller which has a great cover, highlighting the tantalising contents.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Michael Joseph for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Publishes in the UK on 19/6.
4-5 stars rounded up
Another letter arrives for Natalie. Two unpleasant words. She struggles greatly with anxiety following a trauma 10 years ago and Natalie knows they’ll be another letter because she’s still out there. When her husband Ryan is accused of the same crime that causes all Natalie‘s issues, she wants to believe he’s innocent, but can she?
Ooh la la, this is a cracking debut and most definitely a novel that’s right up my street. First of all, it’s very well written with the dual points of view flowing well. Natalie‘s perspective is sensitively approached although you feel her trauma and its after effects and obviously sympathise with her. There’s a lot of pain in Stratton‘s point of view too, and she has a lot going on in her life as well as a taxing job. I like the partnership of Stratton and ‘Fastrack’ a.k.a. DC Bradley as they’re chalk and cheese which certainly makes for interesting reading which positively crackles at times. All the characters are well portrayed, feeling authentic and believable.
The novel is very absorbing as it has a fast paced, multi layered plot which makes for never a dull moment. There are shocks are aplenty, multiple secrets and lies, red herrings and investigative blind alleys. It’s suspenseful and tense which builds and builds with many twists and turns to more than satisfy readers of this genre. There’s one that is especially good and comes right out of the blue, it’s so unexpected. Well played!
I sincerely hope that this is the start of a new series and if so, I’m all in. I can highly recommend this psychological thriller which has a great cover, highlighting the tantalising contents.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin Michael Joseph for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Publishes in the UK on 19/6.
April 7, 2025
"Believe Me Now" is a fast-paced mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat and questioning everyone. Natalie Campbell loses time and has no idea what she is doing or where she has gone during these episodes. Her blackouts are due to PTSD, which started after she was sexually assaulted by her boss, who was ultimately found not guilty. She manages to cope with the support of her husband Ryan. When suddenly, her husband is accused of committing the very same act that ruined her life. She is desperate to believe him until his accuser, Alice Lytton, is found murdered in the very same woods she and her husband run. As her life begins to unravel, she is left doubting herself and the man she loves.
DI Stratton is still healing from her sister's disappearance when she was 16, vowing to help other lost and vulnerable girls. She joins the force intent on catching the killer and bringing justice for her sister and Alice.
I enjoyed the dual narration in this story that brings both sides to a head. Gripping and intense, you will find yourself questioning everyone. Loved it!
Thank Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
DI Stratton is still healing from her sister's disappearance when she was 16, vowing to help other lost and vulnerable girls. She joins the force intent on catching the killer and bringing justice for her sister and Alice.
I enjoyed the dual narration in this story that brings both sides to a head. Gripping and intense, you will find yourself questioning everyone. Loved it!
Thank Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 21, 2025
I was having FOMO with this book after seeing so many people loving it. I was so happy to receive a copy of the audiobook from Brilliance Publishing on NetGalley to listen to and I flew through it. After a slowish start, it certainly ramped up the pace and twists. My goodness, they were jaw droppers and I was there for them all.
The story is from the point of view of 2 very different women in Believe Me Now . First of all we have Natalie Campbell is suffering from PTSD and has blackouts. She works from home and loves her husband. But can she trust him? She isn't so sure anymore, especially when the body of a woman is found in the bush behind their house. Detective Helen Stratton leads the case, and she is fighting her own demons.
Just when you think you have this all worked, something happens that makes you question it all. Really well done and addictive to listen to, The narrators were both fantastic and brought both women to life. Highly recommended.
The story is from the point of view of 2 very different women in Believe Me Now . First of all we have Natalie Campbell is suffering from PTSD and has blackouts. She works from home and loves her husband. But can she trust him? She isn't so sure anymore, especially when the body of a woman is found in the bush behind their house. Detective Helen Stratton leads the case, and she is fighting her own demons.
Just when you think you have this all worked, something happens that makes you question it all. Really well done and addictive to listen to, The narrators were both fantastic and brought both women to life. Highly recommended.
June 14, 2025
'Believe Me Now' by S.M. Govett is a compelling, thought-provoking psychological thriller that kept me fully engaged from the very first pages. While the pacing begins at a slower, more deliberate tempo, the story quickly accelerates—around the 25% mark—and maintains a gripping intensity until the very end. As a reader, I found myself unable to step away but yet wanting to slow the audio down to keep this one going.
Natalie, still haunted by the trauma of a past assault and struggling with blackouts caused by PTSD, finds her world shaken when her husband is accused of a nearly identical crime. This setup immediately draws you in and what follows is a story rich in nuance and suspense.
Govett’s decision to tell the story through dual first-person points of view—Natalie’s and DI Helen Stratton’s—is particularly effective. Their voices are distinct and authentic, adding depth and emotional complexity to the narrative. Natalie’s vulnerability and desperate need for clarity and trust contrast powerfully with Stratton’s no-nonsense determination and personal biases, which are slowly and skillfully revealed.
What truly elevates 'Believe Me Now' above many thrillers in its genre is the strength of its character development. Both Natalie and Stratton are multi-dimensional, flawed, and deeply human. Natalie’s inner conflict and emotional turmoil are handled with care and realism. Stratton, meanwhile, emerges as a fascinating figure—both a liability and a key asset in the investigation. At times, her judgments make her difficult to like, but the author provides enough insight into her background that we come to understand her, even when we disagree with her.
Structurally, the novel is full of suspenseful chapter endings and strategic diversions which kept me second-guessing my own assumptions throughout. I experienced several genuine “aha!” moments—and one particularly brilliant “I did not see that coming” twist that left me stunned.
Additionally, the police procedural elements were well-crafted, and the dynamic within the investigative team felt realistic and added further texture to the plot. By the conclusion, it became clear this could very well be the beginning of a new series, and I would certainly welcome future installments featuring DI Stratton.
In sum, this is a smart, emotionally complex thriller with well-drawn characters, a high-stakes plot, and deeply satisfying twists. I am grateful to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. I’ll be enthusiastically recommending Believe Me Now to others—and eagerly watching for what S.M. Govett writes next.
4.5 stars – rounded up.
Natalie, still haunted by the trauma of a past assault and struggling with blackouts caused by PTSD, finds her world shaken when her husband is accused of a nearly identical crime. This setup immediately draws you in and what follows is a story rich in nuance and suspense.
Govett’s decision to tell the story through dual first-person points of view—Natalie’s and DI Helen Stratton’s—is particularly effective. Their voices are distinct and authentic, adding depth and emotional complexity to the narrative. Natalie’s vulnerability and desperate need for clarity and trust contrast powerfully with Stratton’s no-nonsense determination and personal biases, which are slowly and skillfully revealed.
What truly elevates 'Believe Me Now' above many thrillers in its genre is the strength of its character development. Both Natalie and Stratton are multi-dimensional, flawed, and deeply human. Natalie’s inner conflict and emotional turmoil are handled with care and realism. Stratton, meanwhile, emerges as a fascinating figure—both a liability and a key asset in the investigation. At times, her judgments make her difficult to like, but the author provides enough insight into her background that we come to understand her, even when we disagree with her.
Structurally, the novel is full of suspenseful chapter endings and strategic diversions which kept me second-guessing my own assumptions throughout. I experienced several genuine “aha!” moments—and one particularly brilliant “I did not see that coming” twist that left me stunned.
Additionally, the police procedural elements were well-crafted, and the dynamic within the investigative team felt realistic and added further texture to the plot. By the conclusion, it became clear this could very well be the beginning of a new series, and I would certainly welcome future installments featuring DI Stratton.
In sum, this is a smart, emotionally complex thriller with well-drawn characters, a high-stakes plot, and deeply satisfying twists. I am grateful to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. I’ll be enthusiastically recommending Believe Me Now to others—and eagerly watching for what S.M. Govett writes next.
4.5 stars – rounded up.
July 5, 2025
This book was so fun, I was suspicious of absolutely everyone and couldn’t guess the ending at all!! Short chapters and alternating povs make it make it impossible to put down. If you’re a fan of Freida McFadden, you’ll like this.
June 18, 2025
Natalie suffers blackouts after being sexually assaulted by her boss, but has coping skills in place and is managing with help from her husband Ryan. When Ryan is accused of the same crime AND the woman is found murdered, Natalie's world is thrown into chaos. Is her husband not who she thought he was? What happens during her blackouts?
I'm ALWAYS going to reach for a thriller that involves memory loss and/or PTSD and a traumatic incident. The way Sarah Govett used memory here (or lack thereof), was done brilliantly. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another wrench was thrown into my deductions!
Dual POVs between Natalie and the detective in charge of the investigation, Stratton, kept the pacing tight and intense. Short chapters that left me wanting more, had me reading "just one more chapter" until before I knew it I was finished! My only quibble is excessive language which isn't for me and was also repetitive. That aside, Govett's writing is compelling, complex and twisty. The red herrings, misdirection and combination of police procedural with psychological thriller were an utter knockout!
BELIEVE ME NOW is everything I love in a thriller, a flawed but tenacious main character, a slew of suspects, a plot with several twisty strands, and a pulse pounding conclusion. Yes folks, if you enjoy a mind spinning mystery that will keep you guessing with a pace that will have you up late reading, you've got it right here!
____
Thank you Crooked Lane Books for my free copy. All opinions are mine.
I'm ALWAYS going to reach for a thriller that involves memory loss and/or PTSD and a traumatic incident. The way Sarah Govett used memory here (or lack thereof), was done brilliantly. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another wrench was thrown into my deductions!
Dual POVs between Natalie and the detective in charge of the investigation, Stratton, kept the pacing tight and intense. Short chapters that left me wanting more, had me reading "just one more chapter" until before I knew it I was finished! My only quibble is excessive language which isn't for me and was also repetitive. That aside, Govett's writing is compelling, complex and twisty. The red herrings, misdirection and combination of police procedural with psychological thriller were an utter knockout!
BELIEVE ME NOW is everything I love in a thriller, a flawed but tenacious main character, a slew of suspects, a plot with several twisty strands, and a pulse pounding conclusion. Yes folks, if you enjoy a mind spinning mystery that will keep you guessing with a pace that will have you up late reading, you've got it right here!
____
Thank you Crooked Lane Books for my free copy. All opinions are mine.
September 22, 2025
“Believe” gripped me from the beginning, and amused me with the never-ending plot twists.
Told from a dual perspective, we meet two women, both carrying different weights on their shoulders. Natalie was sexually assaulted ten years ago by her boss, but the court declared him innocent, automatically labeling her a liar. Despite him being dead now, Natalie is still affected by the trauma this caused her. When she finds herself in a stressful situation, she experiences blackouts, waking up after a few hours with no recollection of where she has been or what she has done.
The second woman we meet, DI Stratton, is dealing with her own demons. Her sister went missing a long time ago, and the police didn’t do enough to help, dismissing the case. Still looking for her missing sister, she joined the force, so she is able to have a better chance of finding her. Stratton is also having a difficult time with her mum. Suffering from dementia in a care home, her mum often has flashbacks of her daughter’s disappearance, causing a fresh wave of pain and hurt to the whole family.
Natalie’s husband comes home one day, revealing he’s been suspended from work, because his colleague accused him of sexually harassing her. And then, the very next day, this woman is found dead in the woods, making Ryan, the husband, the primary suspect. Natalie is overwhelmed with everything – after all, her husband is being accused of the same thing that happened to her. But there is one thing Natalie is not prepared to share – she had a blackout on the night of the murder.
And this is where the story starts, and I adored unraveling it, bit by bit.
With so many variables and secrets in play, I never knew where the story would go. I loved the “unreliable narrator” trope. The scenes where Natalie realises that it may very well be her that is the killer and the helplessness about it. The inner battle between – was it me, or was it my husband? Was my husband so heartless to do the same thing they did to me, after knowing the pain and trauma I suffered. Did he kill this woman? Did I do it?
It automatically makes it a thrilling read when you cannot trust any of the characters. And despite not trusting them, I still cared about them and their story.
When it comes to the ending, my feelings are mixed.
Some clues and revelations came a bit late and at a convenient timing. In a red herring kind of way. For me, this felt rushed and like taking the easy route out. That is the only reason it’s not quite a 5-star read. That being said, it was an incredible thriller, full of twists and likeable characters. A book that will definitely take you on a journey and perfect for book clubs and making predictions on who the culprit is and what really happened.
“But it’s true what they say about finding peace in nature. Plants rebuild themselves every year, coming back stronger, more vibrant. There’s a lot to be learned from plants.”
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Told from a dual perspective, we meet two women, both carrying different weights on their shoulders. Natalie was sexually assaulted ten years ago by her boss, but the court declared him innocent, automatically labeling her a liar. Despite him being dead now, Natalie is still affected by the trauma this caused her. When she finds herself in a stressful situation, she experiences blackouts, waking up after a few hours with no recollection of where she has been or what she has done.
The second woman we meet, DI Stratton, is dealing with her own demons. Her sister went missing a long time ago, and the police didn’t do enough to help, dismissing the case. Still looking for her missing sister, she joined the force, so she is able to have a better chance of finding her. Stratton is also having a difficult time with her mum. Suffering from dementia in a care home, her mum often has flashbacks of her daughter’s disappearance, causing a fresh wave of pain and hurt to the whole family.
Natalie’s husband comes home one day, revealing he’s been suspended from work, because his colleague accused him of sexually harassing her. And then, the very next day, this woman is found dead in the woods, making Ryan, the husband, the primary suspect. Natalie is overwhelmed with everything – after all, her husband is being accused of the same thing that happened to her. But there is one thing Natalie is not prepared to share – she had a blackout on the night of the murder.
And this is where the story starts, and I adored unraveling it, bit by bit.
With so many variables and secrets in play, I never knew where the story would go. I loved the “unreliable narrator” trope. The scenes where Natalie realises that it may very well be her that is the killer and the helplessness about it. The inner battle between – was it me, or was it my husband? Was my husband so heartless to do the same thing they did to me, after knowing the pain and trauma I suffered. Did he kill this woman? Did I do it?
It automatically makes it a thrilling read when you cannot trust any of the characters. And despite not trusting them, I still cared about them and their story.
When it comes to the ending, my feelings are mixed.
Some clues and revelations came a bit late and at a convenient timing. In a red herring kind of way. For me, this felt rushed and like taking the easy route out. That is the only reason it’s not quite a 5-star read. That being said, it was an incredible thriller, full of twists and likeable characters. A book that will definitely take you on a journey and perfect for book clubs and making predictions on who the culprit is and what really happened.
“But it’s true what they say about finding peace in nature. Plants rebuild themselves every year, coming back stronger, more vibrant. There’s a lot to be learned from plants.”
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Ko-fi
July 21, 2025
3.5 🌟 rounded up to 4.
A cracking debut! In which it’s quite clear that the author has put in some research, and I wasn’t conflicted in the use of the mental health trope that can often irk me. It was well considered and emphasised the fear that comes along with PTSD and loss of time.
I felt so much for Natalie, she had a horrific life changing experience 10 years ago things have never been the same since then suddenly her husband is accused of the same crime committed against her, she obviously knows she should believe the woman who has brought the allegations forward, yet he’s been her rock, her everything and she simply doesn’t doubt him, until the young woman is found dead in the woods.
DI Helen Stratton is working the case, she’s sharp sassy and sarcastic, but she has her own trauma and her own personal case to solve. She’s a bit disillusioned with her job, but she has to stay in the force if there’s any hope of finding her sister.
I was 100 💯 convinced that the ending was all too obvious and I was really disappointed. I WAS WRONG!
Great narration!
My thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this Audiobook which is available now 🎧
I WAS WRONG!!!!!!!
A cracking debut! In which it’s quite clear that the author has put in some research, and I wasn’t conflicted in the use of the mental health trope that can often irk me. It was well considered and emphasised the fear that comes along with PTSD and loss of time.
I felt so much for Natalie, she had a horrific life changing experience 10 years ago things have never been the same since then suddenly her husband is accused of the same crime committed against her, she obviously knows she should believe the woman who has brought the allegations forward, yet he’s been her rock, her everything and she simply doesn’t doubt him, until the young woman is found dead in the woods.
DI Helen Stratton is working the case, she’s sharp sassy and sarcastic, but she has her own trauma and her own personal case to solve. She’s a bit disillusioned with her job, but she has to stay in the force if there’s any hope of finding her sister.
I was 100 💯 convinced that the ending was all too obvious and I was really disappointed. I WAS WRONG!
Great narration!
My thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this Audiobook which is available now 🎧
I WAS WRONG!!!!!!!
October 31, 2025
Who should readers believe in this "Believe" book?
Govett’s plotting is sharp: the compelling narrative is full of red herrings, shifting alliances, and unreliable narrators.
IMHO, DI Helen Stratton is the shining star of this pacy, dual-POV thriller.
Helen is smart, LOL snarky, and fearless.
This is the author's first adult thriller, and I hope that DI Helen Stratton returns in future releases.
WHY NOT 5 STARS?
At times, the storyline was disjointed.
I listened to the audiobook, expertly narrated by Helen Colby and Amy Noble.
Although both narrators gave outstanding performances, their voices were similar and many times it wasn't easy to discern who was saying what.
4.5 stars
June 6, 2025
Absolutely brilliant!
S.M. Govett’s Believe engaged me from the very first page, with smooth prose and an engaging narrative voice. The clever setup—where Natalie, still haunted by a traumatic assault and struggling with PTSD-induced blackouts, faces the unimaginable when her husband is accused of the same crime—was immediately intense and emotionally compelling. And then the author layers in super use of dual first-person POV first Natalie and then DI Helen Stratton; their voices felt authentic and added not only real depth to the story but are also responsible for bringing the reader emotionally into the story so well. Natalie’s vulnerability and doubt paired with Stratton’s determination and personal history made for a powerful narrative balance.
The pace was ex-cell-ent! Not all thrillers are like this, at least not uniformly from start to finish.as this book is. The story started with a well-pace suspenseful build before shifting gear into a super “what-the-frack-is going-on” and “who-the-frack-dunnit” thriller that I could only put down when my eyes tired out and I switched to an audiobook. Every chapter ended with enough tension to keep me eagerly turning the pages. The plot was multi-layered with secrets, red herrings, and possible twists (or not!) that kept me guessing until the very end.
I’m not going to tell you where in the book this stuck me, if only because you might find more than one, but there is an absolutely brilliant “FXXK ME!” moment. Let’s just say I’m glad I wasn’t on a train when that moment arrived!
What raises Believe way above what I would call the normal, effective and enjoyable thriller is not only is it very clever and the pages turn so easily but also the characters are super—brilliantly constructed, in particular the two MCs. Natalie’s struggle with trauma and her desperate need to believe in the man she loves felt raw and real. DI Stratton’s backstory and fierce commitment to justice gave the story an emotional weight that elevated it beyond a typical thriller. Their alternating viewpoints created a dynamic that made the story feel alive and urgent.
I loved how Stratton has very definite perceptions, which make her both a liability and a key player in the investigation and also make her at times prejudiced and unlikable. The author is clever enough to organically seed precisely why she is so; though you may not always like her, you will certainly be engaged by her.
Believe is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller with a gripping plot, engaging characters, and a pace that never lets up. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys twisty, character-driven thrillers with emotional depth. I’m really looking forward to more from this author and hoping this is the start of a possible series. Oh, and that cover (not the one on Goodreads but the one being used for publication), how brilliant is that?!
Thank you to the author and the publisher, and to NetGalley the opportunity to devour this ARC with glee from the first page to the last.
S.M. Govett’s Believe engaged me from the very first page, with smooth prose and an engaging narrative voice. The clever setup—where Natalie, still haunted by a traumatic assault and struggling with PTSD-induced blackouts, faces the unimaginable when her husband is accused of the same crime—was immediately intense and emotionally compelling. And then the author layers in super use of dual first-person POV first Natalie and then DI Helen Stratton; their voices felt authentic and added not only real depth to the story but are also responsible for bringing the reader emotionally into the story so well. Natalie’s vulnerability and doubt paired with Stratton’s determination and personal history made for a powerful narrative balance.
The pace was ex-cell-ent! Not all thrillers are like this, at least not uniformly from start to finish.as this book is. The story started with a well-pace suspenseful build before shifting gear into a super “what-the-frack-is going-on” and “who-the-frack-dunnit” thriller that I could only put down when my eyes tired out and I switched to an audiobook. Every chapter ended with enough tension to keep me eagerly turning the pages. The plot was multi-layered with secrets, red herrings, and possible twists (or not!) that kept me guessing until the very end.
I’m not going to tell you where in the book this stuck me, if only because you might find more than one, but there is an absolutely brilliant “FXXK ME!” moment. Let’s just say I’m glad I wasn’t on a train when that moment arrived!
What raises Believe way above what I would call the normal, effective and enjoyable thriller is not only is it very clever and the pages turn so easily but also the characters are super—brilliantly constructed, in particular the two MCs. Natalie’s struggle with trauma and her desperate need to believe in the man she loves felt raw and real. DI Stratton’s backstory and fierce commitment to justice gave the story an emotional weight that elevated it beyond a typical thriller. Their alternating viewpoints created a dynamic that made the story feel alive and urgent.
I loved how Stratton has very definite perceptions, which make her both a liability and a key player in the investigation and also make her at times prejudiced and unlikable. The author is clever enough to organically seed precisely why she is so; though you may not always like her, you will certainly be engaged by her.
Believe is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller with a gripping plot, engaging characters, and a pace that never lets up. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys twisty, character-driven thrillers with emotional depth. I’m really looking forward to more from this author and hoping this is the start of a possible series. Oh, and that cover (not the one on Goodreads but the one being used for publication), how brilliant is that?!
Thank you to the author and the publisher, and to NetGalley the opportunity to devour this ARC with glee from the first page to the last.
February 10, 2025
The first thing I need to say is that I read a shi, erm, shedload of these types of crime/mystery thriller novels and I NEVER get the bad guy/girl right. There could be CCTV footage, eyewitness testimony, DNA, a murder weapon, means, motive and opportunity and I swear I still get it wrong. This is the first book in a long time where I actually had it sussed pretty much from the start so I am not sure if that means it was obvious, or whether after 30 years of reading these types of books, I am finally getting the hang of it.
Anyway, this novel tells the story of Natalie who is reeling from a major trauma in her life - when she accused her former boss of sexual assault and he was found not guilty (this isn't a spoiler, its in the synopsis). Natalie is then horrified when her husband is then accused of the same crime. Surely he couldn't be guilty, not after what happened to her, but Natalie feels that women do not lie about these crimes.
What follows is a gripping story, a page turner but ironically its called Believe (Goodreads has it as Believe Me Now but my ARC is Believe) as the suspension of disbelief is necessary to enjoy this one. Not that it wasn't pleasurable and a quick read, it just didn't grip me and a few parts of the story were just past that point of being difficult to believe.
If Goodreads did half stars then this would be 3.5 but alas, its only 3 for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and Michael Joseph, Penguin Random for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Anyway, this novel tells the story of Natalie who is reeling from a major trauma in her life - when she accused her former boss of sexual assault and he was found not guilty (this isn't a spoiler, its in the synopsis). Natalie is then horrified when her husband is then accused of the same crime. Surely he couldn't be guilty, not after what happened to her, but Natalie feels that women do not lie about these crimes.
What follows is a gripping story, a page turner but ironically its called Believe (Goodreads has it as Believe Me Now but my ARC is Believe) as the suspension of disbelief is necessary to enjoy this one. Not that it wasn't pleasurable and a quick read, it just didn't grip me and a few parts of the story were just past that point of being difficult to believe.
If Goodreads did half stars then this would be 3.5 but alas, its only 3 for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and Michael Joseph, Penguin Random for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2025
Wow. I genuinely don’t know where to start with this! One thing I’ll definitely say is I absolutely devoured this book 👏🏻
Very well written; we get POV from Stratton and Natalie which flows nicely and builds up a story. The chapters are short too and at the end of each POV I was just so eager to keep reading. It’s very fast paced, dark, twisty and SO much happened that I had multiple theories and everytime I thought of something, another twist was thrown in. Very addictive!
I thought DI Stratton was such a strong character and although she has a lot going on in her life and her past; she’s a very focused detective.
While I did have my theories, I was not expecting the reveal, cleverly done and I love a good shock with an ending to a book.
I’m absolutely praying that this is the start of a new series; I absolutely think it could continue and we could see the return of DI Stratton! I hope so anyway! Fantastic read and you’ll definitely want to add this to your TBR… especially if you love a good on the edge of your seat read!
Very well written; we get POV from Stratton and Natalie which flows nicely and builds up a story. The chapters are short too and at the end of each POV I was just so eager to keep reading. It’s very fast paced, dark, twisty and SO much happened that I had multiple theories and everytime I thought of something, another twist was thrown in. Very addictive!
I thought DI Stratton was such a strong character and although she has a lot going on in her life and her past; she’s a very focused detective.
While I did have my theories, I was not expecting the reveal, cleverly done and I love a good shock with an ending to a book.
I’m absolutely praying that this is the start of a new series; I absolutely think it could continue and we could see the return of DI Stratton! I hope so anyway! Fantastic read and you’ll definitely want to add this to your TBR… especially if you love a good on the edge of your seat read!
September 17, 2025
3.5 / 5.0
I really hate how this book felt like a wild goose chase. It felt like the book was going in one direction but really near the end it was going on all directions. I really disliked the closure of DI Helen Stratton, I disliked how it felt like the book was going in on circles. We get some drama to fill in the filler scenes, all in all the book is unpredictable but near the end it becomes obviously clear. I really hated the build up and ending, felt as though the author was like great I got my final twist in the book now let’s just close this all up give it max 10 pages and boom we are finished. The ending had no quality to it whatsoever, the book was finished but I found the ending to be rather unfinished and random at points. As we see DI Helen Stratton navigate through her own personal struggles I hate now it was ‘completed’ at the end. Overall it’s an ok book, but one that lacks quality in the end. Also an FYI to those reading this book it does touch upon SA, and assault (just as an FYI).
The book centres around Natalie, who spent 10 year is her life coming to terms with the two events that changed her life. The first attempt was the moment her boss assaulted her, the second was when her boss walked away innocent and free from the jury vote. The justice was never served and her boss dead via a heart attack just after the trial. Just as she is trying to recover from the traumatic event, where she routinely suffers from blackouts. Her husband is now accused of the same crime, throwing Natalie back into the past again. But things take a turn for the whilst when the accuser is found dead with her husband in the centre of it all.
An ok book. I found it long winded and just overall a wild goose chase
I really hate how this book felt like a wild goose chase. It felt like the book was going in one direction but really near the end it was going on all directions. I really disliked the closure of DI Helen Stratton, I disliked how it felt like the book was going in on circles. We get some drama to fill in the filler scenes, all in all the book is unpredictable but near the end it becomes obviously clear. I really hated the build up and ending, felt as though the author was like great I got my final twist in the book now let’s just close this all up give it max 10 pages and boom we are finished. The ending had no quality to it whatsoever, the book was finished but I found the ending to be rather unfinished and random at points. As we see DI Helen Stratton navigate through her own personal struggles I hate now it was ‘completed’ at the end. Overall it’s an ok book, but one that lacks quality in the end. Also an FYI to those reading this book it does touch upon SA, and assault (just as an FYI).
The book centres around Natalie, who spent 10 year is her life coming to terms with the two events that changed her life. The first attempt was the moment her boss assaulted her, the second was when her boss walked away innocent and free from the jury vote. The justice was never served and her boss dead via a heart attack just after the trial. Just as she is trying to recover from the traumatic event, where she routinely suffers from blackouts. Her husband is now accused of the same crime, throwing Natalie back into the past again. But things take a turn for the whilst when the accuser is found dead with her husband in the centre of it all.
An ok book. I found it long winded and just overall a wild goose chase
January 5, 2025
What an amazing debut novel! Gripping and intense with an emotionally powerful voice from both of the main female characters, I raced through this whilst trying to draw it out till the incredibly moving moment everything fell into place. I can’t wait to read more from this author as she has stories she obviously loves to tell and that I adore to read! Magnificent!
July 24, 2025
Stratton is the most annoying character I’ve encountered in awhile. But the twist was pretty good, if a little far-fetched. The quality of the writing was decent.
Read
September 17, 2025Release date: 06-19-25
Narrated by Amy Noble, Helen Colby
Length: 10 hrs and 29 mins
Years ago Natalie was assaulted by her boss but he was found not guilty. She's carried the trauma with her but her husband Ryan always supported her. Then one day, her husband is accused of committing the same crime that ruined her life. What is worse - the young woman Alice who accused him, is found dead in the woods near their home...
DI Helen Stratton is also healing from old wounds. Her older sister disappeared when she was 16, and the police didn’t investigate believing she left on her own will. Vowing to help other lost and vulnerable girls, she joined the force. Stratton is ready to do whatever it takes to catch the killer and bring justice to her sister and Alice.
Told in alternating chapters from Natalie and Helen's perspective this story managed to hook me from the beginning. I kept wondering who killed Alice and if Helen can find closure to her sister's disappearance.
Narrated by Amy Noble, Helen Colby
Length: 10 hrs and 29 mins
Years ago Natalie was assaulted by her boss but he was found not guilty. She's carried the trauma with her but her husband Ryan always supported her. Then one day, her husband is accused of committing the same crime that ruined her life. What is worse - the young woman Alice who accused him, is found dead in the woods near their home...
DI Helen Stratton is also healing from old wounds. Her older sister disappeared when she was 16, and the police didn’t investigate believing she left on her own will. Vowing to help other lost and vulnerable girls, she joined the force. Stratton is ready to do whatever it takes to catch the killer and bring justice to her sister and Alice.
Told in alternating chapters from Natalie and Helen's perspective this story managed to hook me from the beginning. I kept wondering who killed Alice and if Helen can find closure to her sister's disappearance.
January 13, 2025
This was a fast-paced, easy read with dual POVs that I really enjoyed. The writing was engaging, and the twists kept me guessing right until the end. There were several moments when I thought I had everything figured out, but I did not see that ending coming!
*Thank you NetGalley for the ARC*
*Thank you NetGalley for the ARC*
June 24, 2025
Natalie is still struggling after being attacked by her boss 10 years before. Her days are made of routines to help her cope and she regularly experiences blackouts. Ryan her husband is also a great source of comfort for her which she relies on heavily Her world begins to fall apart once again when Ryan’s co worker, Alice Litton accuses him of the same crime she went through at the hands of her boss. When Alice is found murdered suspicion falls of her husband and she begins to wonder if she ever knew his at all.
Stratton is a no nonsense cop who is put in charge of Alice’s case and is convinced that Ryan is guilty. Stratton also has tragedy in her past as years before her sister went missing and she has never been found.
The book flicks between Natalie’s and Stratton’s POV. I especially enjoyed Stratton POV. Id definitely like to see another book that involves her character! As for the investigation I predicted twists very early on as the “bad guy” just seemed to be to obvious but the twist that did come really took me by surprise!
Stratton is a no nonsense cop who is put in charge of Alice’s case and is convinced that Ryan is guilty. Stratton also has tragedy in her past as years before her sister went missing and she has never been found.
The book flicks between Natalie’s and Stratton’s POV. I especially enjoyed Stratton POV. Id definitely like to see another book that involves her character! As for the investigation I predicted twists very early on as the “bad guy” just seemed to be to obvious but the twist that did come really took me by surprise!
May 29, 2025
The blurb:
Natalie has spent ten years trying to get over the twin set of events which changed her life forever.
The first: the moment her boss assaulted her. The second: the moment the jury declared him innocent - and her, a liar.
The memories continue to haunt Natalie, and in her attempts to block out the past, she often wakes up with no recollection of where she’s been – or what she’s done.
So when her husband, Ryan, gets accused of the same crime, Natalie comes perilously close to the edge.
Natalie wants to believe him. But when the body of the young woman who made the accusation is found in the woods near their house, Ryan becomes a prime suspect, and Natalie realises she can't trust anyone - herself included...
My thoughts:
O M G what a story!!!!
This story was fast paced, with short snappy chapters told from the alternating pov of Natalie and Stratton.
This story was so well written. It was dark and twisty and it had me questioning everything and everyone. I thought I had figured out what was going on and then bam a twist near the end that had me reeling!!!
I was gripped from the start and struggled to put it down, devouring this book in 24 hours.
I highly recommend picking this one up! Thank you so much to the author and Penguin Michael Joseph for the advance proof of this book. Opinions expressed here are my own.
Natalie has spent ten years trying to get over the twin set of events which changed her life forever.
The first: the moment her boss assaulted her. The second: the moment the jury declared him innocent - and her, a liar.
The memories continue to haunt Natalie, and in her attempts to block out the past, she often wakes up with no recollection of where she’s been – or what she’s done.
So when her husband, Ryan, gets accused of the same crime, Natalie comes perilously close to the edge.
Natalie wants to believe him. But when the body of the young woman who made the accusation is found in the woods near their house, Ryan becomes a prime suspect, and Natalie realises she can't trust anyone - herself included...
My thoughts:
O M G what a story!!!!
This story was fast paced, with short snappy chapters told from the alternating pov of Natalie and Stratton.
This story was so well written. It was dark and twisty and it had me questioning everything and everyone. I thought I had figured out what was going on and then bam a twist near the end that had me reeling!!!
I was gripped from the start and struggled to put it down, devouring this book in 24 hours.
I highly recommend picking this one up! Thank you so much to the author and Penguin Michael Joseph for the advance proof of this book. Opinions expressed here are my own.
October 26, 2025
I loved it! Believe makes it very difficult for you to do just that. The characters are all flawed and not particularly likeable which really makes you question motives and their actions throughout. It starts off fairly slow, but becomes fast paced and the chapters become punchy and satisfyingly short later on, switching between the different POV. It has some shocking events and twists that definitely keep you on your toes, and leaves you switching between who's the perpetrator.
Overall, the plot is very cleverly crafted and will definitely make your jaw drop as it all unravels. 👌🏻I definitely recommend picking up a copy!
Overall, the plot is very cleverly crafted and will definitely make your jaw drop as it all unravels. 👌🏻I definitely recommend picking up a copy!
August 22, 2025
Believe is SM Govett’s debut adult thriller having written several YA novels under her full name Sarah Govett.
The story follows Natalie Campbell, a lawyer haunted by a violent sexual assault ten years ago and the injustice that followed, when her attacker was found not guilty. Suffering from severe PTSD which manifests in blackouts and memory loss, Natalie is barely existing in life, crippled with agoraphobia and relying on her supportive and understanding husband Ryan.
Her fractured life is turned upside when Ryan is accused of a similar crime, and the accuser is found dead near their home a few days later.
Believe is a real rollercoaster of a ride. It’s twisted and tense and with the dual POVs, the reader is taken on an emotional journey trying to work out who to “believe”.
Govett has a background in the legal field and this is evident throughout the pacing and structure of the story, so if you enjoy psychological thrillers full of tension and twists, grab yourself a copy now.
The story follows Natalie Campbell, a lawyer haunted by a violent sexual assault ten years ago and the injustice that followed, when her attacker was found not guilty. Suffering from severe PTSD which manifests in blackouts and memory loss, Natalie is barely existing in life, crippled with agoraphobia and relying on her supportive and understanding husband Ryan.
Her fractured life is turned upside when Ryan is accused of a similar crime, and the accuser is found dead near their home a few days later.
Believe is a real rollercoaster of a ride. It’s twisted and tense and with the dual POVs, the reader is taken on an emotional journey trying to work out who to “believe”.
Govett has a background in the legal field and this is evident throughout the pacing and structure of the story, so if you enjoy psychological thrillers full of tension and twists, grab yourself a copy now.
August 22, 2025
Believe is SM Govett’s debut adult thriller having written several YA novels under her full name Sarah Govett.
The story follows Natalie Campbell, a lawyer haunted by a violent sexual assault ten years ago and the injustice that followed, when her attacker was found not guilty. Suffering from severe PTSD which manifests in blackouts and memory loss, Natalie is barely existing in life, crippled with agoraphobia and relying on her supportive and understanding husband Ryan.
Her fractured life is turned upside when Ryan is accused of a similar crime, and the accuser is found dead near their home a few days later.
Believe is a real rollercoaster of a ride. It’s twisted and tense and with the dual POVs, the reader is taken on an emotional journey trying to work out who to “believe”.
Govett has a background in the legal field and this is evident throughout the pacing and structure of the story, so if you enjoy psychological thrillers full of tension and twists, grab yourself a copy now.
The story follows Natalie Campbell, a lawyer haunted by a violent sexual assault ten years ago and the injustice that followed, when her attacker was found not guilty. Suffering from severe PTSD which manifests in blackouts and memory loss, Natalie is barely existing in life, crippled with agoraphobia and relying on her supportive and understanding husband Ryan.
Her fractured life is turned upside when Ryan is accused of a similar crime, and the accuser is found dead near their home a few days later.
Believe is a real rollercoaster of a ride. It’s twisted and tense and with the dual POVs, the reader is taken on an emotional journey trying to work out who to “believe”.
Govett has a background in the legal field and this is evident throughout the pacing and structure of the story, so if you enjoy psychological thrillers full of tension and twists, grab yourself a copy now.
December 18, 2024
Ten years ago, Natalie suffered a traumatic, life changing experience at the hands of a colleague. So when her husband, Ryan, gets accused of the very same crime committed against her, she finds herself questioning everything she thought she knew; especially considering she has periods where she blacks out and can’t remember a thing.
The woman who made the accusation appears dead soon after; can Natalie trust her husband? Or herself?
What an incredible, thought provoking book! I read this cover to cover in one sitting. The topics that are covered made me feel anger and sadness to the highest degree.
The fast pace of the book grips you instantly and draws you into the plot, as well as the characters. Being a dual POV, seeing the insight from both a civilian and then a member of the police force adds another level to this book that elevates it above many others I’ve read previously.
A five star psychological thriller that will stay with me for a long time.
The woman who made the accusation appears dead soon after; can Natalie trust her husband? Or herself?
What an incredible, thought provoking book! I read this cover to cover in one sitting. The topics that are covered made me feel anger and sadness to the highest degree.
The fast pace of the book grips you instantly and draws you into the plot, as well as the characters. Being a dual POV, seeing the insight from both a civilian and then a member of the police force adds another level to this book that elevates it above many others I’ve read previously.
A five star psychological thriller that will stay with me for a long time.
January 25, 2025
~thank you to Crooked Lane Books & the author for giving me a chance to read and review this book~
For me, this book started out slow and very confusing. Maybe it was the way it was written, I’m not entirely sure, but I almost gave up and stopped reading it because I couldn’t get into it. But I’m so glad I kept reading and stuck with it. Halfway through the book, it started getting really good and I needed to find out the ending. & the plot twist at the end?? I was so sure I had it all figured out. I was so wrong.
For me, this book started out slow and very confusing. Maybe it was the way it was written, I’m not entirely sure, but I almost gave up and stopped reading it because I couldn’t get into it. But I’m so glad I kept reading and stuck with it. Halfway through the book, it started getting really good and I needed to find out the ending. & the plot twist at the end?? I was so sure I had it all figured out. I was so wrong.
June 23, 2025
4.5⭐️ - I enjoyed the entire time but the twist I didn’t predict (very rare anymore) bumped it up a half star! So good, add to your TBR! Full review to come
December 30, 2025
I never imagined I’d read a book that had me completely stumped from the very beginning.
Believe by S. M. Govett is a must read if you enjoy an exceptionally written psychological thriller.
Natalie is an unreliable narrator who left me suspicious and empathetic at the same time. Investigating the mysterious death of a woman that Natalie’s husband was accused of assaulting is Stratton, who has her own issues to contend with. These two interesting characters tell the twisted tales of lies, infidelity and unforgivable acts.
I was intrigued from the beginning of Believe. By the end I was shocked and amazed. I honestly did not anticipate the twists and turns.
I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the writing. I was riveted. I read it quickly as I so desperately wanted to know who did it? Was Natalie as unreliable as I believed she was?
Once I reached the surprising reveal I thought, ‘well played Sarah!’
Sarah very kindly sent me a copy of her book but in no way does her generosity affect my review. I genuinely loved Believe. I highly recommend it. And, I look forward to Sarah’s next novel.
Believe by S. M. Govett is a must read if you enjoy an exceptionally written psychological thriller.
Natalie is an unreliable narrator who left me suspicious and empathetic at the same time. Investigating the mysterious death of a woman that Natalie’s husband was accused of assaulting is Stratton, who has her own issues to contend with. These two interesting characters tell the twisted tales of lies, infidelity and unforgivable acts.
I was intrigued from the beginning of Believe. By the end I was shocked and amazed. I honestly did not anticipate the twists and turns.
I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the writing. I was riveted. I read it quickly as I so desperately wanted to know who did it? Was Natalie as unreliable as I believed she was?
Once I reached the surprising reveal I thought, ‘well played Sarah!’
Sarah very kindly sent me a copy of her book but in no way does her generosity affect my review. I genuinely loved Believe. I highly recommend it. And, I look forward to Sarah’s next novel.
October 25, 2025
3.5/5
Ten years ago, Natalie was assaulted at her workplace. The trauma left her prone to blackouts and losing chunks of time. When her husband is accused of committing the same crime, her fragile world begins to unravel.
I went into this one blind, and by around the 15–20% mark I had to check the blurb because I wasn’t quite sure where the story was heading. It was a slow start, but around the 25% mark it really picked up.
From that point on, I was hooked. The pacing was fast, the tension high, and I couldn’t trust anyone — which kept me constantly on edge.
The twist completely caught me off guard, and while I found the ending a touch overdramatic at times, that might just be me being picky!
Ten years ago, Natalie was assaulted at her workplace. The trauma left her prone to blackouts and losing chunks of time. When her husband is accused of committing the same crime, her fragile world begins to unravel.
I went into this one blind, and by around the 15–20% mark I had to check the blurb because I wasn’t quite sure where the story was heading. It was a slow start, but around the 25% mark it really picked up.
From that point on, I was hooked. The pacing was fast, the tension high, and I couldn’t trust anyone — which kept me constantly on edge.
The twist completely caught me off guard, and while I found the ending a touch overdramatic at times, that might just be me being picky!
August 14, 2025
Audibly gasped at the ending - fantastic
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