The Interloper

by Hannah Patterson

Harper, Ethan, and Sean are three strangers with one thing in common: a desire to see their wildest dreams fulfilled. When they're invited to join a game that promises to do just that, they can't resist the urge to play. But as the game progresses, they realize it's not as innocent as it seemed. To escape with their lives-and their sanity-they must unravel the game's true nature and confront their deepest secrets. The Interloper is a psychological thriller that explores the power of human connection during life's darkest hours.

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Suspense

318 pages, Hardcover

Published October 14, 2025

Reviews

[⛤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

| 𝟓☆| 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊!

𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁. 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸. 𝗜'𝘃𝗲. 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱. 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀. 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿.

The book is about 13 people who come together after accepting a mysterious letter, to play a game which promises them to reward something life changing, if they win. The game requires them to find the interloper, i.e., someone who doesn't belong in this game. If their guess is correct, they win.
The story although focuses more on 3 characters - Ethan, Harper, Sean.

This story doesn't follow anything cliche. I can't remember the last time I've read a book in which I liked every single character, they're perfectly written. They felt so human - in a sense that they are relatable and reflect the reality of human nature. The suspense is good, it doesn't drag around. It's realistic and raw. And the pace made sense.
For a debut author, this is amazing! Will definitely read her future works.

[Lenna · Rating 2 out of 5]

sick and tired of this two star curse that's befallen me🥲

[Ellen Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an addicting psychological thriller! It was so well written I felt like I was there sitting among the characters feeling nervous and desperate. Terrifyingly suspenseful, I couldn’t stop reading as my heart would be pounding worried what would happen next. I really liked Harper as she was relatable to me but all 3 main characters are so well developed throughout the book. This is a book I will continue to think about and definitely read again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[OutlawPoet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I mostly loved this.

If, like me, you like survival game books (or survival type reality TV), there's a ton to like here. You have a group of characters who all agree to play a game. Naturally, things aren't exactly what they seem.

I liked our main character - she's manipulative enough without being unlikeable. I also found our other players had some interesting depths. And I was highly curious to find out exactly what was going on.

And...that's the part I didn't love so much. I do think most people will find this clever. It's just for me, the logic started to fall apart for me. It's definitely an interesting concept, though.

All in all, I really enjoyed the book and would read the author again.

* ARC via Publisher

[Kay Oliver · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was intrigued by the premise, and the story started out strong. There was mystery and suspense. The characters were interesting. The POV character was so manipulative which made this game that much more riveting. As I got closer and closer to the end, however, things started falling apart. The story reached and unbelievability I couldn't hang on with.

[BookswithLydscl | · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5* rounded up

'The Interloper' by Hannah Patterson is an enjoyable debut with a gripping concept - think The Traitors but with darker secrets and higher stakes. A group of strangers to brought together to play 'Anthill', a game they cannot quit but for the winner(s) will result in a prize that will allow their widest dreams to be fulfilled.

I found the story a little slow to get going but the central mystery builds well with plenty of secrets, lies, twists and thrills. It leads to an interesting reveal that ties together much of the earlier confusion and was not one that I saw coming.

I did find the reveal of main villain to be irritating but their role definitely made sense in hindsight. I also didn’t feel especially connected to most characters apart from Ray, but again, the reveal goes some way to explaining that distance I felt. Some actions along the way also strained believability but yet again it seemed more logical once the truth is out.

Overall I found this to be a really solid and intriguing debut. I love a game gone wrong concept and tied with the psychological thriller elements it made for a fun read with a great premise and satisfying payoff.

Thank you to NetGalley and Köehler Books for a digital review copy of "The Interloper" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.

[Hannah Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

-WILD
-loved the atmosphere
-loved the characters
-puzzles, survivor, games
-page turner
-read it @everyone

An amazing read through and through! An astonishing debut novel! She is definitely an intsa-buy author for me! From the first chapter it pulled me in and I still think of the characters. It’s such a thoughtful look at human existence — the way people connect, misunderstand each other, and carry their own quiet struggles.

The characters felt so real that I caught myself wondering about them even after I closed the book. Patterson does such a great job letting you see the world through each person’s eyes, and the plot moves in a way that’s both unpredictable and deeply satisfying.

It’s rare to find a debut that’s this rich and layered, but still so readable. Hannah Patterson has such a natural voice and a real talent for getting at the heart of what it means to be human. Loved the complexity, she balanced so many things perfectly- plot, characters, commentary on the human condition, and pace! I can’t wait to see what she writes next!!!

[Abhijeet Kumar · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Interloper by Hannah Patterson is a psychological thriller built around thirteen strangers invited to play a mysterious game called Anthill. Received a NetGalley ARC, and here goes my review.

The goal of this life-threatening game was for the players to identify the one among them who doesn’t belong: the interloper. The idea was intriguing, and the story started out strong. As each player was eliminated, the tension continued to build.

The story was engaging, and there were new reveals about one player or another. However, with each new elimination, it seemed that it was resetting (of course, with one less player). Although not entirely repetitive, it kept dragging through similar scenes and thought processes. And what could’ve been a taut, high-stakes thriller ended up feeling like a drawn-out puzzle.

After reading almost 60% of it, I lost interest in knowing who the interloper was. I did feel like peeking into the last few pages directly, but I just wasn't curious anymore.

[Alexa Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Interloper is a psychological thriller that completely pulled me in from the first page. It’s not just about suspense—it’s about the fragile threads that connect us in life’s darkest moments. The character development is incredibly compelling, and the storytelling is rich and immersive. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another unexpected twist kept me on the edge of my seat. It’s a rare blend of tension, emotion, and depth that lingers long after the last page. If you love the social strategy of Survivor, the puzzles of an escape room, and the thrill of a smart, twisty read—this one’s for you. Highly recommend!

[warhawke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genre: Psychological Thriller
Type: Standalone
POV: Third Person- Multiple
Rating:




What if you could earn your deepest desires? For strangers Harper, Sean, and Ethan, the temptation proved impossible to resist. Accepting the invitation as a participant in a peculiar game could change their lives. But none of them realized it might be the last bad decision they would ever make.



I was drawn to the main characters for different reasons, with Harper being my favorite. Their backgrounds were intriguing, and I especially enjoyed watching how they strategize in the game with deceit and manipulation.

As soon as I found out the concept of this story, I was all in because I used to love playing such games. The plot was engaging and seemed to go in multiple directions, but came together in the end.

The Interloper is a story of scheming and perseverance. It would appeal to readers who enjoy a psychological thriller.





🔹🧩🔹. . . (F)BR with Twinsie CC . . . 🔹🧩🔹


For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:



For graphics, trailers & author services visit Warhawke Design Studio.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

What was that ending!!!??? This book felt like Pretty Little Liars Lair with a more dangerous twist. I loved not knowing what was going on. It kept me guessing. After a while I started to guess a small part of the story such as who/why the interloper was who they were but the brains behind it was shocking. This was a unique book. I read a lot of thrillers and love a good twist and this was definitely not something I have ever read before.

I was provided a EBook of this by Netgalley.

[Pattyh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you for the opportunity to preview The Interloper. Imagine a game where if you win all your wishes come true.
Three people begin a mysterious game. Cut off from your life, interviewed to join, and conditions that seem strange.
Who and why is behind this challenge and who will win, or is there a winner….
Started slow but keep going it got better. Good read. 3 stars

[Joanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars for me.

Harper, Ethan, and Sean are strangers who are invited to join a game, and the winner get his wildest dreams fulfilled. Each time they vote, could be the last time for them,as they have to find The Interloper, it's one of thirteen players. Nothing is as easy as they think, and after a while it become obvious that the game is more deadly then they thought, and may not survive it.

Who is The Interloper ?
Who will win?

It was a unique topic,and a fast read. I enjoyed all three POV, could not figure out main characters ,and to the end I was not sure who I root for to win. The twist were surprising, and it was totally different then what I thought it will be. I hope to read author furter work,it was good debut book.

I would recommend for psychological thriller with twists fans.


Thank you netgalley and publisher for arc .

[CC · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

RTC

[Alexandra Theile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! It had so many twists and was very hard to put down. Looking forward to more like this one!

[Mrutyunjaya Sahu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Interloper by Hannah Patterson
Rating: 5/5)

Hannah Patterson’s The Interloper is a gripping psychological thriller that hooks you from the first page and refuses to let go. Centered on three strangers—Harper, Ethan, and Sean—this novel takes a seemingly simple premise and steadily twists it into a tense, unsettling exploration of ambition, vulnerability, and the secrets we keep hidden even from ourselves.

At the heart of the story is an irresistible invitation: a chance to join a mysterious “game” that promises to make each participant’s wildest dreams come true. Harper, Ethan, and Sean, each with their own ambitions and emotional scars, can’t resist. At first, the game feels almost too good to be true. But as the rules tighten and the stakes rise, it becomes clear that this isn’t an innocent experiment—it’s a carefully constructed trap that feeds on their fears and weaknesses.

Patterson skillfully develops each of the three central characters, giving them distinct voices and believable motivations. Harper is ambitious but quietly vulnerable, driven by a desire for recognition. Ethan is more cautious, a thinker whose skepticism makes his gradual unraveling all the more compelling. Sean, on the other hand, carries a simmering desperation that makes him unpredictable as the game progresses. Watching these three strangers interact under mounting psychological pressure is one of the novel’s greatest strengths.

The game itself is both fascinating and terrifying. Patterson doesn’t overload readers with unnecessary exposition; instead, she reveals its true nature through subtle hints and escalating tension. As the trio begins to peel back the layers, they’re forced to confront their deepest fears and darkest secrets, blurring the line between external threat and internal breakdown. The psychological intensity builds steadily, culminating in moments that are both shocking and emotionally resonant.

One of the standout aspects of The Interloper is how it explores the power of human connection in moments of crisis. As Harper, Ethan, and Sean face the game’s increasingly sinister challenges, their survival depends not on strength or cunning alone, but on their ability to trust, empathize, and face uncomfortable truths together. Patterson uses this dynamic to elevate the story beyond a standard thriller—it becomes a reflection on how shared vulnerability can either break or bond people in life’s darkest moments.

The pacing is tight, the prose is clean, and the atmosphere grows more claustrophobic with each chapter. While some readers may wish for more backstory on the origins of the game itself, the ambiguity works in the book’s favor, maintaining a sense of unease and mystery even after the final page.

The Interloper is a sharp, thought-provoking psychological thriller that lingers in the mind long after you finish. Hannah Patterson masterfully blends suspense with emotional depth, making this a must-read for fans of dark, character-driven thrillers.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Interloper by Hannah Patterson has 13 contestants agreeing to participate in a show called Ant Hill. unknown to them their transported to an isolated location with a mess cabin called homebase where they eat vote etc in three cabins surrounded by a couple of miles of woods and they get their water from a running stream. The gist of the game is one of them is an interloper and if they guess who it is regardless of how many are still there they’re all winners but if they’re wrong the one with the most votes has to leave and by leave I mean enter a box and be gas to death. not everyone is OK with the whole being gas to death thing and trying to boycott the vote but soon learn the bracelets on their wrist are not just for show but to automatically send electric shock waves to each contestant when they don’t comply. One of the contestant Eathan who I really didn’t like at all but he’s someone who is fun to dislike because he is manipulative phony a true sociopath and everything that comes with that. He isn’t the only one because someone is playing both sides. They also got clues to help them figure out who the mole was but these clues are so vague and out of the box and the fact that they solve them we’re just unbelievable to me. Especially the last one with the numbers on the back of the building I just found that ridiculous. I mean what are the chances someone would see that? I also want to say there’s a murder that made no sense to me because the person that was murdered was probably next to be eliminated and the person who murdered him is even closer now to being eliminated because of the murder. about 90% of this book is really compelling and kept me reading despite the parts that were highly unbelievable I thought the characters were well developed we even got to know them with chapters of their own as the story goes on, but then the end came and the whole vibe changed. I would definitely recommend this book because as I said I didn’t want to put it down it’s a little bit longer than most but I didn’t even notice time pass as I’ve read it was that good. If you enjoy horror stories and isolated locations with games that are truly life and death and having to out with someone else you will definitely enjoy this book I did until the end although the end wasn’t horrible it just wasn’t how I pictured it ending at all. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #HannahPatterson, #TheInterloper,

[Emmaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Interloper
by Hannah Patterson
5 outof 5 🌟

Hannah Patterson’s The Interloper is less a thriller and more an awakening disguised as one. Beneath its suspenseful plotline lies an unnerving question—what if the most dangerous interloper is not a stranger, but the hidden part of ourselves we refuse to confront? This book doesn’t just entertain; it quietly rearranges the reader’s thoughts, making you question how much of your life is built on illusions of choice and control.

The story begins innocently enough: Harper, Ethan, and Sean are drawn into a game that promises to fulfill their most secret dreams. Yet, as the “game” unfolds, Patterson transforms this simple setup into a psychological mirror. Each round strips away another layer of their humanity, revealing what desire looks like when morality fades. Harper’s yearning for emotional validation, Ethan’s craving for recognition, and Sean’s suppressed guilt become threads that weave into something disturbingly universal—our collective addiction to wish fulfillment.

What makes The Interloper remarkable is its refusal to hand the reader easy answers. Patterson doesn’t chase the traditional high of plot twists; instead, she crafts emotional tension that feels almost spiritual. The setting itself behaves like a living organism—rooms that echo with whispered confessions, moments of eerie stillness that make time feel elastic. There are no clear heroes or villains here—only individuals facing the monstrous reflections of their own desires.

The prose is meditative yet razor-sharp. Patterson writes like someone who has seen the dark corners of ambition and returned to describe them in haunting detail. Every sentence feels weighted with intent, every pause filled with meaning. You don’t read this novel—you absorb it, one unsettling revelation at a time.

By the end, the title takes on a profound resonance. The “interloper” is not just the mysterious force behind the game—it is the moment self-awareness intrudes upon denial. It’s the consciousness that whispers, you asked for this.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚The Interloper
✍🏻Hannah Patterson
Blurb:
Harper, Ethan, and Sean are three strangers with one thing in common: a desire to see their wildest dreams fulfilled. When they're invited to join a game that promises to do just that, they can't resist the urge to play. But as the game progresses, they realize it's not as innocent as it seemed. To escape with their lives-and their sanity-they must unravel the game's true nature and confront their deepest secrets. The Interloper is a psychological thriller that explores the power of human connection during life's darkest hours.
My Thoughts:
The book is about 13 people who come together after accepting a mysterious letter, to play a game which promises them to reward something life changing, if they win. The game requires them to find the interloper, i.e., someone who doesn't belong in this game. If their guess is correct, they win.
The story although focuses more on 3 characters - Ethan, Harper, Sean.

This story doesn't follow anything cliche. I can't remember the last time I've read a book in which I liked every single character, they're perfectly written. They felt so human - in a sense that they are relatable and reflect the reality of human nature. The suspense is good, it doesn't drag around. It's realistic and raw. And the pace made sense.
For a debut author, this is amazing! Will definitely read her future works.
Thanks NetGalley, Koehlerbooks and Author Hannah Patterson for the advanced copy of "The Interloper" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#Koehlerbooks
#HannahPatterson
#TheInterloper
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Interloper is a gripping psychological thriller that follows three strangers, Harper, Ethan, and Sean, who are drawn together by a mysterious game that promises to make their dreams come true. What begins as an exciting adventure quickly turns sinister as the players realize that the game is far more dangerous than they imagined. Each of them must face hidden fears and painful truths while uncovering the dark purpose behind the game. The story delves into the human mind’s fragility, the lure of desire, and the unsettling boundaries between reality and illusion.

The Interloper stands out for its intense psychological depth. The author skillfully weaves suspense with emotion, making the reader question every character’s motive and the game’s true intent. The shifting perspectives between Harper, Ethan, and Sean keep the narrative engaging and unpredictable. The atmosphere is haunting yet beautifully written, and the pacing balances mystery with revelation in a way that keeps you turning the pages. The emotional vulnerability of the characters adds authenticity to the thriller aspect, making it not just a story of survival but also of self-discovery.

The Interloper is perfect for those who appreciate thrillers that go beyond surface-level suspense to explore the complexities of human nature. The book leaves you thinking about the choices people make when faced with temptation and fear. With its blend of psychological tension, moral conflict, and emotional depth, The Interloper is a compelling read that stays with you long after the final page.

[Laurie Booher · Rating 5 out of 5]

13 strangers, all different yet for some unknown reason, have been invited to play a game and if they win gives them what they most need in the world. All they have to do is uncover the interloper. This debut by Hannah Patterson is a fast-paced thriller that highlights three player's pasts, present and hope for the future as they navigate themselves through the game. Were these players chosen to play this game on purpose? What happens to each player when they exit the game? As the story unfolds, some answers but more questions emerge. The players try to figure out who the interloper is and just when the players (and the reader) think they know, do they? The consequence for choosing wrong is frightening to say the least.
I found this story exciting, terrifying and at times heart wrenching. I wanted to keep reading until the end. And the ending? I highly recommend reading this debut by Hannah Patterson. Time well spent. Enjoy!

[Ckelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Psychological thriller fans, here is your new favorite read.

Part reality tv game show; majority thriller.

When a group of strangers get an invite to participate in a new game that will give them the thing they need most in the world if they win, contracts are signed and it’s game on.

Of the 13 players trying to oust the interloper, the book focuses on three POVs - Ethan, a washed up rugby player, Sean, a journalist and Harper, a PhD in psychology.

Every two days the participants must vote out who they think the interloper is but as the game progresses, the strategy, double cross and tension ramps up.

There’s another “contestants secluded from the world” book out recently that I just kept waiting for the tension and ah ha moments that never came. There’s another Interloper was everything that book wasn’t for me. It kept me engaged and kept the surprises coming all the way to the end.

Thank you NetGalley and Koehler books for the ARC

[Shannon Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot recommend this book enough! These days it’s hard to find a new book with a unique premise that keeps me guessing til the end, but The Interloper definitely accomplishes that. I couldn’t put it down! From complex character building to masterful storytelling full of twists and turns, it’s hard to believe this is Hannah Patterson’s debut novel. I will definitely be sharing this find with friends and can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next.

[Hei Yin Tsui · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up
If you like the tv show survivor or traitors, you will love this! It’s about 13 strangers bought to an undisclosed location to play anthill. It took a bit to get into the story but it has an interesting plot. I enjoy the twist and it was a good psychological thriller!

Will def be reading other books by this author.

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC in exchange of my honest review

[Todd Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part game, part moral crucible, The Interloper turns paranoia into propulsion. Patterson writes with a surgeon’s control and a poet’s eye for the small mercies people offer under pressure. I compulsively read for the choices these characters make when nobody is watching. Smart, humane, and truly unsettling

[Tiffany Preston]

This was an extremely short start for me and I stuck it through nearly 20% and still it just couldn't keep my interest. Not sure if i'm in a reading slump, but I may try to read this at a later time to see if I like it more. It's hard to say if I would recommend it considering my book slump, but it has an intriguing concept.

**Thank you to NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for a review!!

[Sarah Buron · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm in a bit of a thriller funk lately. This one started out strong and seemed to drag in the second half. I was more interested at that point in just figuring out what happened rather than being really invested in the story. Overall, a decent read. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review - it's out now!

[Avinash Ahuja · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you loved the psychological complexity of Black Mirror or the moral tension of Gone Girl, The Interloper will leave you breathless. It’s sharp, unsettling, and hauntingly human — a thriller that crawls under your skin and refuses to leave.

[Mahnoor Lasania · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked our main character - she's manipulative enough without being unlikable, which had me rooting for her lol. I also found our other players had some interesting depths. And I was highly curious to find out exactly what was going on.

[Cassie Thelen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good thriller! Kept me interested the whole book and had a twist that I didn’t see coming. I loved the mystery and characters. Definitely recommend