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Heather
A small-town detective reopens an unsolved case, sending shock waves across generations of women in this gripping new mystery from the Edgar Award–winning author of Please See Us.
1990. In the myth-riddled woods of the New Jersey Pine Barrens, sixteen-year-old Annabelle Riley's twin sister, Sabrina, has been having an affair with a mysterious older man, and Annabelle is determined to uncover what's going on. Then, inexplicably, both sisters disappear.
In this same town years later, newly instated police chief Callie Hauser makes an arrest that unexpectedly resurrects details from a heartbreaking cold case. As she digs deeper, the past and the present collide, challenging everything Callie believes about right and wrong, who she is, and the town she's always called home.
A propulsive mystery as incisive as it is forgiving, Heather bears a visceral reminder that the truth of a woman's life is often complicated and unknowable—to those on the outside, and sometimes even to herself.
1990. In the myth-riddled woods of the New Jersey Pine Barrens, sixteen-year-old Annabelle Riley's twin sister, Sabrina, has been having an affair with a mysterious older man, and Annabelle is determined to uncover what's going on. Then, inexplicably, both sisters disappear.
In this same town years later, newly instated police chief Callie Hauser makes an arrest that unexpectedly resurrects details from a heartbreaking cold case. As she digs deeper, the past and the present collide, challenging everything Callie believes about right and wrong, who she is, and the town she's always called home.
A propulsive mystery as incisive as it is forgiving, Heather bears a visceral reminder that the truth of a woman's life is often complicated and unknowable—to those on the outside, and sometimes even to herself.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2026
About the author
Caitlin Mullen
3 books515 followersCaitlin Mullen is the author of Please See Us, which won the 2021 Edgar Award for Best First Novel and was named a New York Times best crime novel in 2020. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and children.
instagram: @caitlin_e_mullen
instagram: @caitlin_e_mullen
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 507 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️ 4.5 ⭐️ How rarely do we know the truths even about our own lives?
Two missing girls, one cold case, thirty years of silence. This is a story of a small town that harbored a lot of dark secrets. Set in Pine Barrens, NJ, this is mystery/literary thriller that follows two timelines and 3 distinct narrators.. each telling a story that serves as a reminder that a woman's life is often complicated and unknowable and when a voice is lost, a lot of truth is lost with it.
1994. A 16 year old Sabrina is having an affair with a mysterious older man. Her twin sister Annabelle is determines to uncover what is going on. Then, inexplicably both sisters disappear.
2023. A small town detective, Callie, reopens an unsolved case when she makes an arrest that resurrects details of the heartbreaking past.
Body of a baby is found in the woods. No one knows whose baby it is, how it got there or who is involved. The case goes cold and silent for the next 30 years until Callie, a newly instated police chief officer, makes an arrest that opens a little crack in the cold case. The arrest sets off a chain of events, bringing Callie closer to the truth but she was not expecting to find something that is far more deeper, messier and personal.
Heather is a slow burn mystery full of suspense. While the pacing is slow at times, the story is laced with emotionally shocking moments and is more of a character driven crime fiction. I had a little trouble following the narration the first 15% and then I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I listened to the first 70% of the narration in one sitting and finished the rest the next day, also in one sitting. I loved Callies character--she was driven, on top of things, an embodiment of what I'd call a great detective and police officer. She just kept digging and digging some more and all this digging ticked a few people off (total red flags!) and she just wouldn't stop until she got what she wanted. All this digging just added more tension to the narrative, I seriously started to think I was part of the investigation! Ha!
The noisiness of the third narrator was probably my favorite part of the story. A girls own curiosity opens a can of worms. I loved how everything unfolded and readers should be prepared for emotional depth that covers dark subjects: teen pregnancy, loss, stillbirth, sexual exploitation.
Narrator: Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, Mia Wurgaft
Duration 12 hours 2 minutes
Speed: 1.5x
Many thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and the author, Caitlin Mullen for an early ALC.
Publication date: June 9, 2026
Two missing girls, one cold case, thirty years of silence. This is a story of a small town that harbored a lot of dark secrets. Set in Pine Barrens, NJ, this is mystery/literary thriller that follows two timelines and 3 distinct narrators.. each telling a story that serves as a reminder that a woman's life is often complicated and unknowable and when a voice is lost, a lot of truth is lost with it.
1994. A 16 year old Sabrina is having an affair with a mysterious older man. Her twin sister Annabelle is determines to uncover what is going on. Then, inexplicably both sisters disappear.
2023. A small town detective, Callie, reopens an unsolved case when she makes an arrest that resurrects details of the heartbreaking past.
Body of a baby is found in the woods. No one knows whose baby it is, how it got there or who is involved. The case goes cold and silent for the next 30 years until Callie, a newly instated police chief officer, makes an arrest that opens a little crack in the cold case. The arrest sets off a chain of events, bringing Callie closer to the truth but she was not expecting to find something that is far more deeper, messier and personal.
Heather is a slow burn mystery full of suspense. While the pacing is slow at times, the story is laced with emotionally shocking moments and is more of a character driven crime fiction. I had a little trouble following the narration the first 15% and then I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I listened to the first 70% of the narration in one sitting and finished the rest the next day, also in one sitting. I loved Callies character--she was driven, on top of things, an embodiment of what I'd call a great detective and police officer. She just kept digging and digging some more and all this digging ticked a few people off (total red flags!) and she just wouldn't stop until she got what she wanted. All this digging just added more tension to the narrative, I seriously started to think I was part of the investigation! Ha!
The noisiness of the third narrator was probably my favorite part of the story. A girls own curiosity opens a can of worms. I loved how everything unfolded and readers should be prepared for emotional depth that covers dark subjects: teen pregnancy, loss, stillbirth, sexual exploitation.
Narrator: Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, Mia Wurgaft
Duration 12 hours 2 minutes
Speed: 1.5x
Many thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and the author, Caitlin Mullen for an early ALC.
Publication date: June 9, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Happy publication day…a day late 🫣
3.5⭐
Genre ~ police procedural, crime fiction
Setting ~ New Jersey
Publication date ~ June 9, 2026
Publisher ~ Macmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 352 (p+ 54 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 12 hours 8 minutes
Narrators ~ Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, Mia Wurgaft
POV ~ 3rd and 2nd (Annabelle)
Featuring ~ 3 parts, small town, cold case, slow burn
Callie is our new police chief ready to set some fresh eyes on the cold case of missing sisters, Annabelle & Sabrina, from the 90's.
These 16 year old twins don't have the best home life, so as you can imagine they don't make the best choices. There are inappropriate relationships resulting in .
Having a mix of 3rd and 2nd person narration was jarring, so I wasn't a big fan of that.
Part 2 we meet Blair in September 2023 that ramps up the story slightly.
Overall, this was fine as cold cases go, but it was very slow moving and pretty predictable. The eerie vibes were on point, though. It's worth mentioning this is not a thriller, so don't expect that going in if that's what you prefer with your mysteries.
Narration notes:
Please as punch there are 3! They all did well.
Pre-reading notes:
Obviously I have to read this one!
3.5⭐
Genre ~ police procedural, crime fiction
Setting ~ New Jersey
Publication date ~ June 9, 2026
Publisher ~ Macmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 352 (p+ 54 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 12 hours 8 minutes
Narrators ~ Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, Mia Wurgaft
POV ~ 3rd and 2nd (Annabelle)
Featuring ~ 3 parts, small town, cold case, slow burn
Callie is our new police chief ready to set some fresh eyes on the cold case of missing sisters, Annabelle & Sabrina, from the 90's.
These 16 year old twins don't have the best home life, so as you can imagine they don't make the best choices. There are inappropriate relationships resulting in .
Having a mix of 3rd and 2nd person narration was jarring, so I wasn't a big fan of that.
Part 2 we meet Blair in September 2023 that ramps up the story slightly.
Overall, this was fine as cold cases go, but it was very slow moving and pretty predictable. The eerie vibes were on point, though. It's worth mentioning this is not a thriller, so don't expect that going in if that's what you prefer with your mysteries.
Narration notes:
Please as punch there are 3! They all did well.
Pre-reading notes:
Obviously I have to read this one!
June 16, 2026
Deeper than I thought it would be. Engrossing story of betrayal and redemption RTC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A slow-burn, layered mystery in a haunting setting.
The New Jersey Pine Barrens have long been fertile ground for myth and mystery, and in Heather, Caitlin Mullen uses that eerie landscape to craft a slow-burning, deeply atmospheric thriller about secrets, sisterhood, and the lingering weight of the past.
The story moves between two timelines. In the present day, newly appointed police chief Callie Hauser returns to her hometown hoping to find her footing in a role that carries both professional and personal stakes. When an arrest unexpectedly resurrects details connected to the death of an infant, Callie begins investigating the cold case, as well as the long-unsolved disappearance of twin sisters Annabelle and Sabrina Riley in the mid-1990s - and it's not long before old secrets start to surface and the past begins colliding with the present.
Heather is very much a character-driven mystery, and it works beautifully on that level. Mullen takes her time exploring the complicated lives of the women at the center of the story, examining family ties, buried trauma, and the way small towns preserve both memories and secrets. The Pine Barrens themselves become almost a character in the novel, their folklore and isolating landscape providing the perfect haunting backdrop.
At times, the atmosphere and themes are reminiscent of The God of the Woods , a personal favorite of mine, particularly in the way both novels blend a missing-person mystery with a deeper exploration of family dynamics and long-held community secrets.
My main reservation with the novel itself concerns its different points of view. The twins' sections are written in second person, a stylistic choice that creates a certain distance in the narrative. As a result, those chapters occasionally feel more like a stylistic experiment than a storytelling necessity. In addition, the eventual introduction of a third perspective (Blair) doesn't always feel entirely essential to the narrative.
In the audiobook version, all three perspectives are narrated by different performers, which was an excellent choice. Christine Lakin in particular delivers a standout performance as Callie, capturing both the character's determination and her underlying vulnerability as she navigates the pressures of returning home and reopening a case everyone wants to forget about. Mia Wurgaft also provides a strong and engaging narration in her sections, though they are fewer in number. Finally, Bailey Carr narrates the perspective of the teenage twins. While her performance emphasizes the emotional fragility of the characters, the softer delivery didn't work quite as well for me - especially since I was already struggling with the second-person narration in those chapters.
The pacing of the novel leans firmly toward the slow-burn end of the thriller spectrum, prioritizing atmosphere and character over relentless twists. For readers like myself who enjoy immersive, emotionally complex mysteries, that's very much part of the appeal. Haunting, introspective, and beautifully grounded in its setting, Heather explores family, secrets, and the ways small towns hold onto the past. The result is a thoughtful and layered mystery with an unforgettable atmosphere.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for providing me with an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
"Heather" is slated to be released on June 9, 2026.
The New Jersey Pine Barrens have long been fertile ground for myth and mystery, and in Heather, Caitlin Mullen uses that eerie landscape to craft a slow-burning, deeply atmospheric thriller about secrets, sisterhood, and the lingering weight of the past.
The story moves between two timelines. In the present day, newly appointed police chief Callie Hauser returns to her hometown hoping to find her footing in a role that carries both professional and personal stakes. When an arrest unexpectedly resurrects details connected to the death of an infant, Callie begins investigating the cold case, as well as the long-unsolved disappearance of twin sisters Annabelle and Sabrina Riley in the mid-1990s - and it's not long before old secrets start to surface and the past begins colliding with the present.
Heather is very much a character-driven mystery, and it works beautifully on that level. Mullen takes her time exploring the complicated lives of the women at the center of the story, examining family ties, buried trauma, and the way small towns preserve both memories and secrets. The Pine Barrens themselves become almost a character in the novel, their folklore and isolating landscape providing the perfect haunting backdrop.
At times, the atmosphere and themes are reminiscent of The God of the Woods , a personal favorite of mine, particularly in the way both novels blend a missing-person mystery with a deeper exploration of family dynamics and long-held community secrets.
My main reservation with the novel itself concerns its different points of view. The twins' sections are written in second person, a stylistic choice that creates a certain distance in the narrative. As a result, those chapters occasionally feel more like a stylistic experiment than a storytelling necessity. In addition, the eventual introduction of a third perspective (Blair) doesn't always feel entirely essential to the narrative.
In the audiobook version, all three perspectives are narrated by different performers, which was an excellent choice. Christine Lakin in particular delivers a standout performance as Callie, capturing both the character's determination and her underlying vulnerability as she navigates the pressures of returning home and reopening a case everyone wants to forget about. Mia Wurgaft also provides a strong and engaging narration in her sections, though they are fewer in number. Finally, Bailey Carr narrates the perspective of the teenage twins. While her performance emphasizes the emotional fragility of the characters, the softer delivery didn't work quite as well for me - especially since I was already struggling with the second-person narration in those chapters.
The pacing of the novel leans firmly toward the slow-burn end of the thriller spectrum, prioritizing atmosphere and character over relentless twists. For readers like myself who enjoy immersive, emotionally complex mysteries, that's very much part of the appeal. Haunting, introspective, and beautifully grounded in its setting, Heather explores family, secrets, and the ways small towns hold onto the past. The result is a thoughtful and layered mystery with an unforgettable atmosphere.
Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for providing me with an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
"Heather" is slated to be released on June 9, 2026.
June 9, 2026
Thank you Celadon Books for sending me a free advance copy!
I read Caitlin Mullen’s book, PLEASE SEE US, back in 2019. My book memory is not the best so I looked over the review I had posted on Goodreads and I’m glad I did as it refreshed my memory on the author’s writing style. She takes her time setting the stage and there’s a purpose to her writing that you just don’t get very often with this genre. She’s telling a broader, thoughtful story rather than just a whodunit type read.
Callie Hauser has moved back to her hometown in New Jersey to help take care of her best friend who is recovering from an accident. Callie is the chief of police much to the chagrin of her male subordinates. She reopens a cold case that is bound to uncover long buried secrets.
Starts off slow but I put my faith in the author and eventually became invested especially after other characters’ POVs were worked into the story. It’s a bleak read but it’s necessary to show the reality of life for girls and women. The mystery itself isn’t all that shocking and unfortunately that says a lot about where we are at as a society. But that’s kinda the whole point of the book.
I read Caitlin Mullen’s book, PLEASE SEE US, back in 2019. My book memory is not the best so I looked over the review I had posted on Goodreads and I’m glad I did as it refreshed my memory on the author’s writing style. She takes her time setting the stage and there’s a purpose to her writing that you just don’t get very often with this genre. She’s telling a broader, thoughtful story rather than just a whodunit type read.
Callie Hauser has moved back to her hometown in New Jersey to help take care of her best friend who is recovering from an accident. Callie is the chief of police much to the chagrin of her male subordinates. She reopens a cold case that is bound to uncover long buried secrets.
Starts off slow but I put my faith in the author and eventually became invested especially after other characters’ POVs were worked into the story. It’s a bleak read but it’s necessary to show the reality of life for girls and women. The mystery itself isn’t all that shocking and unfortunately that says a lot about where we are at as a society. But that’s kinda the whole point of the book.
May 22, 2026
thank you to netgalley, caitlin mullen, and celadon books for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
release date: june 9th, 2026
oof. this was an emotional read. every woman in this book deserves so much better and more. it took a while for me to get into this book because it is veryyy slow in the beginning. that was my only complaint with this book. that, and there seemed to be too many side characters but omg no! i was so wrong - it is the side characters that truly bring this plot together. halfway through the book, you realize why and how every detail, minute or not, is very important. and by then, you won't be able to put this book down. the riley sisters have definitely made an impact on me.
release date: june 9th, 2026
oof. this was an emotional read. every woman in this book deserves so much better and more. it took a while for me to get into this book because it is veryyy slow in the beginning. that was my only complaint with this book. that, and there seemed to be too many side characters but omg no! i was so wrong - it is the side characters that truly bring this plot together. halfway through the book, you realize why and how every detail, minute or not, is very important. and by then, you won't be able to put this book down. the riley sisters have definitely made an impact on me.
April 28, 2026
HEATHER
By Caitlin Mullen
Narrated by Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, Mia Wurgaft
Buried Secrets in the Pine Barrens
3.5 rounded down
A slow-burn suspense novel set in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, Heather follows Police Chief Callie Hauser as she returns to her small hometown and makes an arrest that unexpectedly reopens a cold case from the 1990s. Two sixteen-year-old twin girls vanished years earlier, and Callie’s investigation begins to unsettle the town as long-buried secrets start to surface. As past and present collide, she finds herself questioning everything she thought she knew—about the case, the town, and even herself.
This is a slower-paced, dark, and atmospheric story with a quiet sense of unease. The pacing may not work for everyone, but it suits the moody, character-driven nature of the novel. Told through dual timelines, it focuses on complex women and how their pasts, relationships, and secrets shape their lives. The writing is descriptive and layered, exploring themes of trauma and memory.
This was a solid read for me, and I’d be interested in reading more from Caitlin Mullen. The narration was very well done, and I would definitely recommend the audiobook.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC.
June 20, 2026
3.75⭐️ Rounded up (bc it deserves it)
Part litfic, part thriller, and part women's fiction... Heather was a book that reminded me, in so many ways, of The God of the Woods mixed with Clemence Michallon's feminist leaning approach to writing thrillers, with a sharp analysis of female pain passed from generation to generation and long held town secrets.
With larger than life, multilayered characters, drama up to the eyeballs, a beyond nostalgiac setting, and beautiful writing... I really enjoyed this one more than I thought I would. Initially in the first 40 pages I was wondering when the thrill would come in until I got used to Mullen's writing, which is (as I've come to learn) a style that forces you to just sit back and enjoy the ride.
While the plot may be somewhat predictable and on the lighter side, the writing and characterization were absolutely heartfelt and beautifully written. I was definitely crying at the end, and seeing the love between Annabelle and her sister Sabrina made the whole book just feel like something more ... deeper, more nuanced, more complicated.
That said, I felt really really satisfied with the ending in a way I didn't with God of the Woods, and liked the main characters a fair amount more. Definitely worth the time and read. Just know going in, it's more litfic/women's fiction than a true fast paced thriller-thriller.
Part litfic, part thriller, and part women's fiction... Heather was a book that reminded me, in so many ways, of The God of the Woods mixed with Clemence Michallon's feminist leaning approach to writing thrillers, with a sharp analysis of female pain passed from generation to generation and long held town secrets.
With larger than life, multilayered characters, drama up to the eyeballs, a beyond nostalgiac setting, and beautiful writing... I really enjoyed this one more than I thought I would. Initially in the first 40 pages I was wondering when the thrill would come in until I got used to Mullen's writing, which is (as I've come to learn) a style that forces you to just sit back and enjoy the ride.
While the plot may be somewhat predictable and on the lighter side, the writing and characterization were absolutely heartfelt and beautifully written. I was definitely crying at the end, and seeing the love between Annabelle and her sister Sabrina made the whole book just feel like something more ... deeper, more nuanced, more complicated.
That said, I felt really really satisfied with the ending in a way I didn't with God of the Woods, and liked the main characters a fair amount more. Definitely worth the time and read. Just know going in, it's more litfic/women's fiction than a true fast paced thriller-thriller.
April 21, 2026
Loved this—4.5 stars! A slow-burn, twisty cold case with just enough present-day drama to keep things moving. Callie was such a strong, layered character and I really enjoyed her growth. The sister dynamic felt super real, too. My only small gripe was wanting a bit more depth from a couple side characters. Overall, gripping, emotional, and definitely recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
June 13, 2026
The inner spine promises a "gripping new thriller" that "sends shockwaves across generations." What I got was a slow-burn cold case anchored to one of the least competent protagonists I've read in the genre.
Callie Hauser is the new Chief of Police, which I'm told means overseeing all cases — yet she's almost never at work, fixated on a single cold case she stumbles into. When she is at work, her male employees walk over her like a doormat at a ski lodge, and she takes it. She's not a feminist so much as a collection of contradictions: she assumes everything a man says is about sex and loathes them for it — except the guy she just met, who calls her "no-bullshit vibes" (sir, receipts?) and whom she trusts to take her out on the water, the second-date equivalent of an unpopular hike trail. Pulling off a glove reminds her of the way men remove a condom. High schoolers ignoring her makes her, a woman in her thirties, depressed. Pick a person.
As a cop she's worse. I knew who did it on page 27. Callie's still saying "wait, what?" on page 300. She doesn't deduce a single thing that isn't handed to her in the most literal terms — at one point she puts her phone away the one moment she actually needs it. Her internal monologue even cliffhangers like 1960s Batman: Will she survive? Tune in next week. And naming a character Damien in a book that also invokes religion and the Jersey Devil — real subtle.
Here's the thing: remove yourself from Callie and the story threads work. I liked pivoting between Annabelle, Sabrina, and Blair, watching them intersect. The bite mark reveal landed. The plot-convenient DNA test didn't bother me. And this is less a generation-shaking thriller than a quiet study of what you lose when you can't learn from your parents — Callie can't even muster feeling for her own mother.
It's not a book you can't put down. But it's not one you give up on either — until the last two chapters, where you finish purely because you're already this far.
Callie Hauser is the new Chief of Police, which I'm told means overseeing all cases — yet she's almost never at work, fixated on a single cold case she stumbles into. When she is at work, her male employees walk over her like a doormat at a ski lodge, and she takes it. She's not a feminist so much as a collection of contradictions: she assumes everything a man says is about sex and loathes them for it — except the guy she just met, who calls her "no-bullshit vibes" (sir, receipts?) and whom she trusts to take her out on the water, the second-date equivalent of an unpopular hike trail. Pulling off a glove reminds her of the way men remove a condom. High schoolers ignoring her makes her, a woman in her thirties, depressed. Pick a person.
As a cop she's worse. I knew who did it on page 27. Callie's still saying "wait, what?" on page 300. She doesn't deduce a single thing that isn't handed to her in the most literal terms — at one point she puts her phone away the one moment she actually needs it. Her internal monologue even cliffhangers like 1960s Batman: Will she survive? Tune in next week. And naming a character Damien in a book that also invokes religion and the Jersey Devil — real subtle.
Here's the thing: remove yourself from Callie and the story threads work. I liked pivoting between Annabelle, Sabrina, and Blair, watching them intersect. The bite mark reveal landed. The plot-convenient DNA test didn't bother me. And this is less a generation-shaking thriller than a quiet study of what you lose when you can't learn from your parents — Callie can't even muster feeling for her own mother.
It's not a book you can't put down. But it's not one you give up on either — until the last two chapters, where you finish purely because you're already this far.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This story was a heavy one.
The case itself? Really good. Tragic, uncomfortable at times and definitely not an easy read. It deals with a lot of difficult topics, teen pregnancy, grief, grooming, loss and it doesn’t shy away from them.
The story follows the disappearance of two sisters back in the `90s and then jumps years later, when a new police chief starts digging into the case again. As more details come to light, it becomes clear that things are way more complicated than they first seemed.
I really liked the multiple POVs (Annabelle & Sabrina in the `90s and Callie & a girl called Blair, in the present). They helped piece everything together and gave a fuller picture of what actually happened.
Emotionally, this book hit me really hard. It made me angry, frustrated, sad… and at times probably I wanted to scream a little. I could easily see this as a real case.
BUT.
The pacing… yeah. It’s very slow. Like, very slow. And while I understand why the story takes its time, I do think it could’ve been tighter.
That said, the audiobook narration was excellent and definitely helped bring the story to life.
Overall, this had all the elements of a really strong and amazing procedural, I just wish it moved a bit faster.
⭐ 3.75, rounded to 4
Thank you NetGalley and the gods at Macmillan Audio for the ALC.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
The case itself? Really good. Tragic, uncomfortable at times and definitely not an easy read. It deals with a lot of difficult topics, teen pregnancy, grief, grooming, loss and it doesn’t shy away from them.
The story follows the disappearance of two sisters back in the `90s and then jumps years later, when a new police chief starts digging into the case again. As more details come to light, it becomes clear that things are way more complicated than they first seemed.
I really liked the multiple POVs (Annabelle & Sabrina in the `90s and Callie & a girl called Blair, in the present). They helped piece everything together and gave a fuller picture of what actually happened.
Emotionally, this book hit me really hard. It made me angry, frustrated, sad… and at times probably I wanted to scream a little. I could easily see this as a real case.
BUT.
The pacing… yeah. It’s very slow. Like, very slow. And while I understand why the story takes its time, I do think it could’ve been tighter.
That said, the audiobook narration was excellent and definitely helped bring the story to life.
Overall, this had all the elements of a really strong and amazing procedural, I just wish it moved a bit faster.
⭐ 3.75, rounded to 4
Thank you NetGalley and the gods at Macmillan Audio for the ALC.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
March 16, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing an ALC in exchange for honest feedback.
I’m not typically into slow burn thrillers (and this one was slowwww) however, it was so well done that it kept me intrigued throughout. It was incredibly atmospheric and the characters were complex which added to the tension intimacy of the story. It was giving “Mare of Easttown” vibes and I can absolutely envision this book as a movie or series. Definitely a haunting read that will linger in my mind.
I’m not typically into slow burn thrillers (and this one was slowwww) however, it was so well done that it kept me intrigued throughout. It was incredibly atmospheric and the characters were complex which added to the tension intimacy of the story. It was giving “Mare of Easttown” vibes and I can absolutely envision this book as a movie or series. Definitely a haunting read that will linger in my mind.
March 2, 2026
I liked it!! Very exciting and then satisfying cold case mystery! Initially it was slow but picked up quite a bit. There is a back in forth between pov and timelines that was incredibly successful in my eyes.
When I started reading it I had the thought that I didn’t want to read about a cop solving a cold case, I’d rather read about a teenager (good girls guide to murder) or a group of old people (Thursday murder club) doing that. That said and with the most minimal spoilers - this book does eventually arrive at acab.
Heather is sort of giving Mare of Easttown, the absolutely incredible Kate Winslet mini series - I recommend that show and this book with equal measure.
Thanks for the arc and looking forward to the pub date this June. This would be a great summer read!!
When I started reading it I had the thought that I didn’t want to read about a cop solving a cold case, I’d rather read about a teenager (good girls guide to murder) or a group of old people (Thursday murder club) doing that. That said and with the most minimal spoilers - this book does eventually arrive at acab.
Heather is sort of giving Mare of Easttown, the absolutely incredible Kate Winslet mini series - I recommend that show and this book with equal measure.
Thanks for the arc and looking forward to the pub date this June. This would be a great summer read!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars!
Discussing the complex and intertwined connections in a small town, I’m really glad I chose the audiobook because there was so much to unpack!
A small-town detective reopens a cold case, impacting generations of women in this gripping mystery. The story begins in 1994 when 16-year-old Annabelle Riley investigates her twin sister Sabrina’s affair with an older man, leading to their unexplained disappearance. Years later, Police Chief Callie Hauser makes an arrest that brings haunting details of the case to light, forcing her to confront her beliefs about morality and her hometown.
This poignant and bittersweet story is divided into three parts, featuring dual timelines with Annabelle's perspective from the past and Callie’s and Blare’s viewpoints from the present. It explores three generations of women grappling with secrets, tough choices, and challenging upbringings.
We delve into Annabelle's and Sabrina’s stories, imagining the hardships they faced growing up without a mother and with a father who was emotionally absent. Then we meet Callie, who navigates her own struggles as a chief in a male-dominated world while also uncovering her unexpected connections to other characters. Lastly, we encounter Blare, who, in her distinct timeline, experiences a loving family environment. However, the twist that lies ahead takes us by surprise.
Wow, what an emotional journey! This book will certainly spark thought-provoking discussions, making it an ideal choice for book clubs. I can personally relate to it, having grown up alone without adult guidance during my formative years. Although I faced many choices, I’m thankful I discovered my own path, and in hindsight, I believe I made the right decisions.
The audiobook was fantastic, thanks to a few of my favorite narrators who truly brought the story and its emotions to life. I often found it hard to hit pause, and if you find the book a bit slow, I highly recommend listening to the audio version! The narrators matched the characters' personalities perfectly.
This story is for anyone who appreciates a slow-burn mystery rich in dark and emotional themes. It challenges you to immerse yourself in difficult situations and reminds you that, no matter where we find ourselves in the narrative, we’re all seeking our place in life. Of course, having family and support can shape who we become, but those who are less fortunate must often start over if given the chance.
The choices we make as teenagers or young adults can be tough to grasp in hindsight as adults. This book beautifully conveys the themes of trauma, grief, abandonment, and the quest for personal identity, all waiting for you to interpret in your own unique way. After all, we all have a past, and what we do with our future is up to us. However, doing the right thing is never easy. What a heartfelt story this is! Bravo!
Thank you, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Discussing the complex and intertwined connections in a small town, I’m really glad I chose the audiobook because there was so much to unpack!
A small-town detective reopens a cold case, impacting generations of women in this gripping mystery. The story begins in 1994 when 16-year-old Annabelle Riley investigates her twin sister Sabrina’s affair with an older man, leading to their unexplained disappearance. Years later, Police Chief Callie Hauser makes an arrest that brings haunting details of the case to light, forcing her to confront her beliefs about morality and her hometown.
This poignant and bittersweet story is divided into three parts, featuring dual timelines with Annabelle's perspective from the past and Callie’s and Blare’s viewpoints from the present. It explores three generations of women grappling with secrets, tough choices, and challenging upbringings.
We delve into Annabelle's and Sabrina’s stories, imagining the hardships they faced growing up without a mother and with a father who was emotionally absent. Then we meet Callie, who navigates her own struggles as a chief in a male-dominated world while also uncovering her unexpected connections to other characters. Lastly, we encounter Blare, who, in her distinct timeline, experiences a loving family environment. However, the twist that lies ahead takes us by surprise.
Wow, what an emotional journey! This book will certainly spark thought-provoking discussions, making it an ideal choice for book clubs. I can personally relate to it, having grown up alone without adult guidance during my formative years. Although I faced many choices, I’m thankful I discovered my own path, and in hindsight, I believe I made the right decisions.
The audiobook was fantastic, thanks to a few of my favorite narrators who truly brought the story and its emotions to life. I often found it hard to hit pause, and if you find the book a bit slow, I highly recommend listening to the audio version! The narrators matched the characters' personalities perfectly.
This story is for anyone who appreciates a slow-burn mystery rich in dark and emotional themes. It challenges you to immerse yourself in difficult situations and reminds you that, no matter where we find ourselves in the narrative, we’re all seeking our place in life. Of course, having family and support can shape who we become, but those who are less fortunate must often start over if given the chance.
The choices we make as teenagers or young adults can be tough to grasp in hindsight as adults. This book beautifully conveys the themes of trauma, grief, abandonment, and the quest for personal identity, all waiting for you to interpret in your own unique way. After all, we all have a past, and what we do with our future is up to us. However, doing the right thing is never easy. What a heartfelt story this is! Bravo!
Thank you, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 6, 2026
Heather by Caitlin Mullen is the kind of slow burn mystery that gradually wraps itself around you and refuses to let go. Set against the eerie backdrop of New Jersey’s Pine Barrens, the story weaves together a decades old disappearance and a present day investigation, creating an atmospheric and deeply layered cold case mystery. The alternating timelines are equally compelling, and I found myself just as invested in uncovering what happened to Annabelle and Sabrina in 1994 as I was in following Police Chief Callie Hauser’s present day search for answers. Mullen takes her time building the story, but every piece feels intentional, resulting in a rich, character driven mystery packed with emotional weight and complexity.
The audiobook elevates the experience even further. Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, and Mia Wurgaft each deliver phenomenal performances, bringing depth, vulnerability, and distinct voices to the multiple perspectives. Their narration captures the emotional range of the novel beautifully, from grief and longing to determination and heartbreak, pulling me even deeper into the story. The shifts between past and present feel seamless in audio, and each narrator helps create an immersive listening experience that enhances the haunting atmosphere.
While slower paced thrillers don’t always work for me, Heather kept me fully engaged from beginning to end. This is less about nonstop twists and more about unraveling the complicated lives, secrets, and choices that ripple across generations. Thoughtful, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant, it’s an excellent pick for readers who enjoy police procedurals, cold case mysteries, and character driven suspense that takes its time developing but delivers a rewarding payoff.
The audiobook elevates the experience even further. Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, and Mia Wurgaft each deliver phenomenal performances, bringing depth, vulnerability, and distinct voices to the multiple perspectives. Their narration captures the emotional range of the novel beautifully, from grief and longing to determination and heartbreak, pulling me even deeper into the story. The shifts between past and present feel seamless in audio, and each narrator helps create an immersive listening experience that enhances the haunting atmosphere.
While slower paced thrillers don’t always work for me, Heather kept me fully engaged from beginning to end. This is less about nonstop twists and more about unraveling the complicated lives, secrets, and choices that ripple across generations. Thoughtful, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant, it’s an excellent pick for readers who enjoy police procedurals, cold case mysteries, and character driven suspense that takes its time developing but delivers a rewarding payoff.
June 15, 2026
4.5 stars. I love a decades-old mystery in a small town, and this one was so well written, and the characters felt so real that I couldn’t put it down. It’s also set in the Pine Barrens in New Jersey, which made it all feel very close to home. I do think the ending went on a little too long but aside from that I really really enjoyed this!
June 3, 2026
Thank you to Cailin Mullens and MacMillan Audio (#MacAudio2026) for the ALC!
1994 - Sixteen year old twins Annabelle and Sabrina inexplicably disappear after Sabrina’s affair with a mysterious older man. For years the case went unsolved. Now, decades later, Police Chief Callie House makes an arrest that finds details from the cold case. Past and present collide as Callie digs deeper to find the truth. Set again the New Jersey Pine barrens, this mystery plays out.
When I saw this compared to Liz Moore’s “God of the Woods”, I knew it was for me! Slow burns aren’t always my fave, but when done well, they have me totally invested - as was the case with this story. Told in alternating timelines, and dual points of view, Callie begins investigatng what was a cold case for decades. The way the twins' story unfolded was heartbreaking and there were plenty of twists that kept me on my toes. Callie was a such a relateable character too - deeply layered, with baggage of her own trying to prove herself. Deeply atmospheric, the setting of the Pine Barren woods really creeped me out too! Mullen's vivid writing really brought the atmosphere to life.
"Heather" is out NOW! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
1994 - Sixteen year old twins Annabelle and Sabrina inexplicably disappear after Sabrina’s affair with a mysterious older man. For years the case went unsolved. Now, decades later, Police Chief Callie House makes an arrest that finds details from the cold case. Past and present collide as Callie digs deeper to find the truth. Set again the New Jersey Pine barrens, this mystery plays out.
When I saw this compared to Liz Moore’s “God of the Woods”, I knew it was for me! Slow burns aren’t always my fave, but when done well, they have me totally invested - as was the case with this story. Told in alternating timelines, and dual points of view, Callie begins investigatng what was a cold case for decades. The way the twins' story unfolded was heartbreaking and there were plenty of twists that kept me on my toes. Callie was a such a relateable character too - deeply layered, with baggage of her own trying to prove herself. Deeply atmospheric, the setting of the Pine Barren woods really creeped me out too! Mullen's vivid writing really brought the atmosphere to life.
"Heather" is out NOW! This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly :)
June 21, 2026
Caitlin Mullen’s Heather is the kind of mystery that quietly gets under your skin and stays there long after you’ve turned the final page.
When newly appointed police chief Callie Hauser arrests her own alcoholic mother for a DUI, she already has more than enough on her plate. But when a decades-old cold case resurfaces—one involving an unidentified infant found dead in the woods and the disappearance of twin sisters years earlier—Callie becomes consumed by uncovering the truth.
This is very much a police procedural, but it’s also a deeply female-centered story about connection, resilience, and the ways women protect one another. The narrative unfolds through multiple points of view across different timelines. While Callie and Annabelle, one of the missing twins, carry most of the story, a third perspective enters later and adds another compelling layer to the mystery.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller, this isn’t that book. Heather is a deliberate slow burn, but I was completely engaged from beginning to end. Mullen’s writing is beautiful, and there were several scenes that were simultaneously stunning and heartbreaking—moments that genuinely stopped me in my tracks.
One aspect I especially appreciated was how realistic Callie felt as a police chief. So many crime novels focus exclusively on dramatic breakthroughs and high-stakes confrontations, but this book also acknowledges the ordinary realities of police work. Callie spends time filling out paperwork, applying for grants, and handling the less glamorous parts of the job. It sounds like a small detail, but it added an authenticity that made the investigation feel even more grounded.
The subject matter can be quite dark, particularly with the deceased infant at the center of the mystery, but the story never feels exploitative. Instead, it uses that tragedy to explore larger themes of female empowerment, beauty, family, and protection.
This was my first novel by Caitlin Mullen, and it definitely won’t be my last. Readers who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven mysteries in the vein of Gillian McAllister or Tana French should absolutely put this one on their radar.
When newly appointed police chief Callie Hauser arrests her own alcoholic mother for a DUI, she already has more than enough on her plate. But when a decades-old cold case resurfaces—one involving an unidentified infant found dead in the woods and the disappearance of twin sisters years earlier—Callie becomes consumed by uncovering the truth.
This is very much a police procedural, but it’s also a deeply female-centered story about connection, resilience, and the ways women protect one another. The narrative unfolds through multiple points of view across different timelines. While Callie and Annabelle, one of the missing twins, carry most of the story, a third perspective enters later and adds another compelling layer to the mystery.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller, this isn’t that book. Heather is a deliberate slow burn, but I was completely engaged from beginning to end. Mullen’s writing is beautiful, and there were several scenes that were simultaneously stunning and heartbreaking—moments that genuinely stopped me in my tracks.
One aspect I especially appreciated was how realistic Callie felt as a police chief. So many crime novels focus exclusively on dramatic breakthroughs and high-stakes confrontations, but this book also acknowledges the ordinary realities of police work. Callie spends time filling out paperwork, applying for grants, and handling the less glamorous parts of the job. It sounds like a small detail, but it added an authenticity that made the investigation feel even more grounded.
The subject matter can be quite dark, particularly with the deceased infant at the center of the mystery, but the story never feels exploitative. Instead, it uses that tragedy to explore larger themes of female empowerment, beauty, family, and protection.
This was my first novel by Caitlin Mullen, and it definitely won’t be my last. Readers who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven mysteries in the vein of Gillian McAllister or Tana French should absolutely put this one on their radar.
June 12, 2026
DNF @33%
Great 3 dnf in a row kkkkkkk i blame headlights because i want that feeling.
This one was boring and very slow pace, the theme of investigation is around drugs (which im not a fan) and we also have other pov (which is in 2 person). I didnt care about nobody, nothing happens and her mother is missing and she went on a date. im sorry what?
Not for me. Sometimes i feel kinda guilty about dnf but them i remeber, why would i make myself not have a good time? onyl to finish a book? no thanks. But i need something entertaining now
Great 3 dnf in a row kkkkkkk i blame headlights because i want that feeling.
This one was boring and very slow pace, the theme of investigation is around drugs (which im not a fan) and we also have other pov (which is in 2 person). I didnt care about nobody, nothing happens and her mother is missing and she went on a date. im sorry what?
Not for me. Sometimes i feel kinda guilty about dnf but them i remeber, why would i make myself not have a good time? onyl to finish a book? no thanks. But i need something entertaining now
June 11, 2026
This was a really solid read! Loved the plot, the characters, the pacing. Really, no comments. If you like small town settings and long held secrets, you should read this one!
May 12, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listening copy (ALC) of Heather in exchange for an honest review.
Caitlin Mullen delivers a layered, atmospheric mystery in Heather that kept me invested from beginning to end. Set against the haunting backdrop of the New Jersey Pine Barrens, this story blends a cold case, family secrets, and the complicated realities of womanhood into a compelling and emotionally resonant mystery.
I really enjoyed how the story unfolded across timelines, slowly revealing what happened to twin sisters Annabelle and Sabrina after their mysterious disappearance in 1994. The mystery itself was gripping, but what stood out most to me was the way Mullen explored relationships between women, identity, and the ripple effects of trauma and secrets across generations. The small-town setting added an eerie, immersive quality that made the story feel even more atmospheric.
The audiobook experience elevated the story for me. Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, and Mia Wurgaft each brought distinct voices and emotional depth to the characters, helping the multiple perspectives feel clear and engaging. Their performances added tension and nuance that made it easy to stay immersed in the mystery.
While the pacing occasionally felt slower in spots, the payoff was worth it, and the emotional depth gave this mystery something extra beyond just twists and suspense.
If you enjoy layered mysteries with strong female perspectives, cold cases, small-town secrets, and an atmospheric setting, Heather is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Caitlin Mullen delivers a layered, atmospheric mystery in Heather that kept me invested from beginning to end. Set against the haunting backdrop of the New Jersey Pine Barrens, this story blends a cold case, family secrets, and the complicated realities of womanhood into a compelling and emotionally resonant mystery.
I really enjoyed how the story unfolded across timelines, slowly revealing what happened to twin sisters Annabelle and Sabrina after their mysterious disappearance in 1994. The mystery itself was gripping, but what stood out most to me was the way Mullen explored relationships between women, identity, and the ripple effects of trauma and secrets across generations. The small-town setting added an eerie, immersive quality that made the story feel even more atmospheric.
The audiobook experience elevated the story for me. Bailey Carr, Christine Lakin, and Mia Wurgaft each brought distinct voices and emotional depth to the characters, helping the multiple perspectives feel clear and engaging. Their performances added tension and nuance that made it easy to stay immersed in the mystery.
While the pacing occasionally felt slower in spots, the payoff was worth it, and the emotional depth gave this mystery something extra beyond just twists and suspense.
If you enjoy layered mysteries with strong female perspectives, cold cases, small-town secrets, and an atmospheric setting, Heather is definitely one to add to your TBR.
June 11, 2026
Callie Hauser has recently moved back to her small hometown in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. She's been appointed as the chief of police. It's the same town where, in 1994, an infant was found dead on the side of the road and identical twins Annabelle and Sabrina Riley mysteriously disappeared. An arrest made by Callie unexpectedly rekindles memories of the heartbreaking cold case, prompting her to delve deeper into the matter. As secrets begin to emerge, Callie soon finds herself questioning everything she once thought she knew.
This was a slow-burn mystery with dual timelines and multiple POVs, but it was a bit too slow for me. I did enjoy reading Callie, Annabelle, and Blair's POVs and appreciated the haunting, atmospheric setting of the NJ Pine Barrens. It was dark, suspenseful, moody, and very character-driven. There's even a little romance. The folklore of the Jersey Devil played a part, as did sisterhood and trauma. This book definitely had all the elements I look for, including small-town secrets. But to be honest, I really couldn't get into the story the way I wanted to, and I found Callie a bit unlikable. There were quite a few times she annoyed me. Those are definitely "me" things. I will definitely try this author again and will definitely recommend this one to people who enjoy slower-paced books🩷
This was a slow-burn mystery with dual timelines and multiple POVs, but it was a bit too slow for me. I did enjoy reading Callie, Annabelle, and Blair's POVs and appreciated the haunting, atmospheric setting of the NJ Pine Barrens. It was dark, suspenseful, moody, and very character-driven. There's even a little romance. The folklore of the Jersey Devil played a part, as did sisterhood and trauma. This book definitely had all the elements I look for, including small-town secrets. But to be honest, I really couldn't get into the story the way I wanted to, and I found Callie a bit unlikable. There were quite a few times she annoyed me. Those are definitely "me" things. I will definitely try this author again and will definitely recommend this one to people who enjoy slower-paced books🩷
June 20, 2026
The setting was an important character, the New Jersey Pine Barrens. I hadn’t really heard about them before this book, but it made for a spooky setting for disappearances. I enjoyed the mystery and the mother and daughter relationship exploration. Maybe it’s because I don’t have kids, but I don’t really see how anyone could hate Annabelle. She was so lost herself, so alone. The baby was basically stillborn, there may not have been anything she could really have done.
June 19, 2026
3.5 ⭐️. A slow burn mystery, a female chief of police moving back to her old home town and rekindling a cold case of missing twin 16 year old girls from 30 years before- the same era as Callie’s (the chief of police) mum. Three different female narrators, a complex and yet a bit predictable storyline. Found it a bit hard to believe that the chief of police was spending pretty much all her time investigating a cold case over 30 years old. Not overly riveting but still quite enjoyed the journey. ( the book is advertised as “for readers who enjoyed “the God of the woods.” Note- “the God of the woods” is better…)
June 13, 2026
If you loved God of the Woods, read this.
4.5 rounded up
4.5 rounded up
June 21, 2026
4.5 rounded up
I picked up this book due to the title being my name. I loved it. It wasn't a fast paced thriller like I'm used to, but more a story than a quick solve.
I picked up this book due to the title being my name. I loved it. It wasn't a fast paced thriller like I'm used to, but more a story than a quick solve.
May 3, 2026
Thank you Libro.fm for the ALC!
June 13, 2026
Thanks to MacMillan audio and NetGalley for the early access to the audiobook. This book was really similar in form to God of the Woods- it was a real “page turner” in my opinion. I like the mystery novel format that has parallel story lines that converge. I also thought the familial connections and layers added a unique complexity to the story/mystery. 10/10 recommend!!
Read
June 11, 2026this is a debut I believe, the structure of it was a little clumsy, I liked the story overall but if only it was more streamlined it would feel less overwrought
May 15, 2026
This had all the ingredients of a book I normally love: missing girls, small town secrets, generational trauma, and an eerie setup in the Pine Barrens. Honestly the cover and synopsis make this feel like it’s going to be a dark woods-heavy atmospheric mystery and I was SO ready for that. Unfortunately, the actual woods barely felt present in the story at all.
Instead, this was an excruciatingly slow burn where I pretty much had the mystery figured out within the first few chapters. Once the second part started, it became even more obvious where things were headed and I kept waiting for some huge twist or revelation to prove me wrong. It never came.
That doesn’t mean the book is bad because it isn’t. The writing is solid and I can absolutely see why some readers would connect with it. But the pacing was painfully sluggish and the reveals felt so predictable that I never got the payoff I was hoping for. Instead of building tension, it mostly felt like waiting around for the characters to catch up to information the reader already knows.
If you love very slow, character driven literary mysteries that focus more on mood and relationships than actual suspense, this may work really well for you. I just needed more tension, more momentum, and honestly way more creepy Pine Barrens atmosphere than what we actually got.
Instead, this was an excruciatingly slow burn where I pretty much had the mystery figured out within the first few chapters. Once the second part started, it became even more obvious where things were headed and I kept waiting for some huge twist or revelation to prove me wrong. It never came.
That doesn’t mean the book is bad because it isn’t. The writing is solid and I can absolutely see why some readers would connect with it. But the pacing was painfully sluggish and the reveals felt so predictable that I never got the payoff I was hoping for. Instead of building tension, it mostly felt like waiting around for the characters to catch up to information the reader already knows.
If you love very slow, character driven literary mysteries that focus more on mood and relationships than actual suspense, this may work really well for you. I just needed more tension, more momentum, and honestly way more creepy Pine Barrens atmosphere than what we actually got.
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