What do you think?
Rate this book
DC Morgan #3
Other People's Houses: A Novel
New York Times
bestselling author Clare Mackintosh is back with another binge-worthy installment in the DC Morgan series.
You want what they have, but what price would you pay?
The Hill is the kind of place everyone wants to luxurious, exclusive, and safe. But now someone is breaking and entering these Cheshire homes one by one, and DS Leo Brady suspects the burglar is looking for something, or someone, in particular.
Over the border in Wales, DC Ffion Morgan recovers the body of an estate agent from the lake. There's no love lost between Ffion and estate agents, but who hated this one enough to want her dead—and why?
As their cases collide, Ffion and Leo discover people will pay a high price to keep their secrets behind closed doors . . .
You want what they have, but what price would you pay?
The Hill is the kind of place everyone wants to luxurious, exclusive, and safe. But now someone is breaking and entering these Cheshire homes one by one, and DS Leo Brady suspects the burglar is looking for something, or someone, in particular.
Over the border in Wales, DC Ffion Morgan recovers the body of an estate agent from the lake. There's no love lost between Ffion and estate agents, but who hated this one enough to want her dead—and why?
As their cases collide, Ffion and Leo discover people will pay a high price to keep their secrets behind closed doors . . .
Audible Audio
First published February 27, 2025
1051 people are currently reading
26418 people want to read
About the author
Clare Mackintosh
30 books11.7k followersWelcome to my Goodreads profile! Whether you're new to my work, or a hard-core fan, it's lovely to see you here. My latest book is OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES, the third book in my DC Ffion Morgan series. Like THE LAST PARTY and A GAME OF LIES, this is designed to be read as a standalone, but if you've followed Ffion and Leo from the beginning, I think you'll love seeing where OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES takes them.
If this is the first time we're meeting, welcome! In addition to the books above, I'm the author of I LET YOU GO, I SEE YOU, LET ME LIE and HOSTAGE - page-turning thrillers that have sold more than three million copies across 40 countries, and hit bestseller lists including The Sunday Times and The New York Times. I also wrote the emotional rollercoaster, AFTER THE END: a family drama about an impossible choice that threatens to tear a couple apart. It's the most personal novel I've written, and I've loved hearing from readers who have connected with it. In 2024 I released a memoir, I PROMISE IT WON'T ALWAYS HURT LIKE THIS, based on my experiences of navigating grief following the loss of my son eighteen years ago. It's a book to offer hope when you feel as though there's none to be had; a book to give to a friend when you don't know what to say.
Coming in 2026 is what I'm boldly going to tell you is my best book yet... a standalone thriller with a twist that'll knock your socks off! It's called IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK, and I would love you to add it to your shelf right now!
I love connecting with my readers, and there are plenty of ways you can get a sneak peek at what's going on behind the scenes. My Facebook group offers reading recommendations and exclusive extras to members (just search online for 'The Clare Mackintosh Book Club'), or if it's general chit chat you're after, please do follow me on Instagram, where I go to avoid writing, and to share snippets of my life in rural Wales, complete with three spaniels and Pete the goat. I'm also on TikTok, much to the dismay of my three teenagers...
* * *
With over three million copies of her books sold worldwide, number one bestseller Clare Mackintosh is the multi-award-winning author of I Let You Go, which was a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller and the fastest-selling title by a new crime writer in 2015. It also won the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year in 2016. She has since written seven more bestselling novels. Together, her books have been translated into 40 languages and spent more than sixty-five weeks in The Sunday Times bestseller lists.
Clare is patron of the Silver Star Society, a charity based at the John Radcliffe hospital in Oxford, which supports parents experiencing high-risk or difficult pregnancies.
* * *
For more information find Clare on Facebook, Instagram, Threads or TikTok at @ClareMackWrites
#ILetYouGo #ISeeYou #LetMeLie #AftertheEnd #HostageBook #TheLastParty #AGameOfLies #IPromise #OtherPeoplesHouses #ItsNotWhatYouThink
If this is the first time we're meeting, welcome! In addition to the books above, I'm the author of I LET YOU GO, I SEE YOU, LET ME LIE and HOSTAGE - page-turning thrillers that have sold more than three million copies across 40 countries, and hit bestseller lists including The Sunday Times and The New York Times. I also wrote the emotional rollercoaster, AFTER THE END: a family drama about an impossible choice that threatens to tear a couple apart. It's the most personal novel I've written, and I've loved hearing from readers who have connected with it. In 2024 I released a memoir, I PROMISE IT WON'T ALWAYS HURT LIKE THIS, based on my experiences of navigating grief following the loss of my son eighteen years ago. It's a book to offer hope when you feel as though there's none to be had; a book to give to a friend when you don't know what to say.
Coming in 2026 is what I'm boldly going to tell you is my best book yet... a standalone thriller with a twist that'll knock your socks off! It's called IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK, and I would love you to add it to your shelf right now!
I love connecting with my readers, and there are plenty of ways you can get a sneak peek at what's going on behind the scenes. My Facebook group offers reading recommendations and exclusive extras to members (just search online for 'The Clare Mackintosh Book Club'), or if it's general chit chat you're after, please do follow me on Instagram, where I go to avoid writing, and to share snippets of my life in rural Wales, complete with three spaniels and Pete the goat. I'm also on TikTok, much to the dismay of my three teenagers...
* * *
With over three million copies of her books sold worldwide, number one bestseller Clare Mackintosh is the multi-award-winning author of I Let You Go, which was a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller and the fastest-selling title by a new crime writer in 2015. It also won the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year in 2016. She has since written seven more bestselling novels. Together, her books have been translated into 40 languages and spent more than sixty-five weeks in The Sunday Times bestseller lists.
Clare is patron of the Silver Star Society, a charity based at the John Radcliffe hospital in Oxford, which supports parents experiencing high-risk or difficult pregnancies.
* * *
For more information find Clare on Facebook, Instagram, Threads or TikTok at @ClareMackWrites
#ILetYouGo #ISeeYou #LetMeLie #AftertheEnd #HostageBook #TheLastParty #AGameOfLies #IPromise #OtherPeoplesHouses #ItsNotWhatYouThink
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,208 reviews
October 27, 2025
Hi there, it’s Nilufer—and I have a confession to make:
I’m completely and unapologetically addicted. Addicted to thrillers, yes—but more specifically, to the heart-pounding brilliance of Clare Mackintosh, and especially her utterly gripping DC Ffion Morgan series. I swear, this series has me in a chokehold in the best possible way.
With each book, Mackintosh raises the bar, but with this latest installment, she soared over it. From the very first page, I was hooked—and when I say hooked, I mean dancing-around-my-living-room, neglecting-every-responsibility kind of hooked. As soon as I got the ARC in my hands, everything else could wait. Because when you read one of the Holy Trinity of Thriller Queens—Clare Mackintosh, Lisa Jewell, and Gillian McAllister—you drop everything.
And yes, this is easily my favorite book of the series so far. Not only does Mackintosh deliver one chilling mystery… she gives us three, and masterfully interweaves them into a nail-biting, brilliantly structured plot that kept me guessing till the very last page.
🎯 Case One:
Ffion leads the investigation into the death of Natasha Brett, an estate agent whose body is found floating on a kayak in a lake after a boozy party with her coworkers. Her colleagues—Mike, Russell, and her no-nonsense boss Carole Simmons—are all under scrutiny, as well as her intensely possessive boyfriend Luke, who raised red flags long before the murder.
🎯 Case Two:
Meanwhile, Leo is pulled into a string of strange break-ins in the posh, ultra-private neighborhood known as The Hill. Nothing of value is taken—but the thief clearly knows what they’re doing, disabling alarms and leaving no trace. Leo suspects the intruder is looking for something, and he’s not going to stop until he finds it. As if that isn’t enough, Leo keeps crossing paths with his ex, Allie—who’s so desperate to be accepted by the neighborhood’s elite, she’ll do anything. Trust me: you’ll love to hate her. She’s sharp, strategic, and downright ruthless in her attempts to wedge herself between Leo and Ffion. Still, her loneliness and obsession with status make her a character you pity as much as you loathe.
🎯 Case Three:
Ffion, overwhelmed with the looming threat of losing her home and unsure how to handle her deepening relationship with Leo (who keeps asking her to move in), finds an outlet in her obsession with a true crime podcast called Without Conviction. The podcast investigates the cold case of the Carmichael couple—who were murdered in their own home, and whose case was allegedly closed by convicting the wrong man. Now, new evidence suggests that Stephanie Carmichael may have had a secret lover, and that person could be the real killer. The tension this podcast creates bleeds into Ffion’s real life in the most unexpected—and chilling—ways.
And just when you think these three threads are running parallel, Mackintosh slams them together in a climax that left me shaking. Every breadcrumb, every character, every line of dialogue was leading to this. And when it hit—I was stunned.
But beyond the mystery, what makes this book shine is the evolution of Ffion and Leo. Their chemistry is raw, real, and hilariously flawed. They bicker, they hide things from each other, they stumble—but at the heart of it, they care deeply. Watching them grow (and struggle) both as partners and as people adds so much depth to the story.
And that ending?
Let’s just say—I screamed. I jumped off the couch. I raised my fist in triumph and shouted, “HELL YEAH!” (Sorry, neighbors.) It was everything I wanted and more.
This series has me in its clutches, and I don’t want to be set free. I am as obsessed with these books as Ffion is with her true crime podcast. I’m already counting down the days until Book Four drops. Honestly, if Goodreads allowed it, I’d give this ten stars.
THANK YOU to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the incredible opportunity to read this unforgettable ARC. Clare Mackintosh, you’ve done it again—and I’m already bracing myself for the next wild ride you have in store.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
instagram
facebook
twitter
I’m completely and unapologetically addicted. Addicted to thrillers, yes—but more specifically, to the heart-pounding brilliance of Clare Mackintosh, and especially her utterly gripping DC Ffion Morgan series. I swear, this series has me in a chokehold in the best possible way.
With each book, Mackintosh raises the bar, but with this latest installment, she soared over it. From the very first page, I was hooked—and when I say hooked, I mean dancing-around-my-living-room, neglecting-every-responsibility kind of hooked. As soon as I got the ARC in my hands, everything else could wait. Because when you read one of the Holy Trinity of Thriller Queens—Clare Mackintosh, Lisa Jewell, and Gillian McAllister—you drop everything.
And yes, this is easily my favorite book of the series so far. Not only does Mackintosh deliver one chilling mystery… she gives us three, and masterfully interweaves them into a nail-biting, brilliantly structured plot that kept me guessing till the very last page.
🎯 Case One:
Ffion leads the investigation into the death of Natasha Brett, an estate agent whose body is found floating on a kayak in a lake after a boozy party with her coworkers. Her colleagues—Mike, Russell, and her no-nonsense boss Carole Simmons—are all under scrutiny, as well as her intensely possessive boyfriend Luke, who raised red flags long before the murder.
🎯 Case Two:
Meanwhile, Leo is pulled into a string of strange break-ins in the posh, ultra-private neighborhood known as The Hill. Nothing of value is taken—but the thief clearly knows what they’re doing, disabling alarms and leaving no trace. Leo suspects the intruder is looking for something, and he’s not going to stop until he finds it. As if that isn’t enough, Leo keeps crossing paths with his ex, Allie—who’s so desperate to be accepted by the neighborhood’s elite, she’ll do anything. Trust me: you’ll love to hate her. She’s sharp, strategic, and downright ruthless in her attempts to wedge herself between Leo and Ffion. Still, her loneliness and obsession with status make her a character you pity as much as you loathe.
🎯 Case Three:
Ffion, overwhelmed with the looming threat of losing her home and unsure how to handle her deepening relationship with Leo (who keeps asking her to move in), finds an outlet in her obsession with a true crime podcast called Without Conviction. The podcast investigates the cold case of the Carmichael couple—who were murdered in their own home, and whose case was allegedly closed by convicting the wrong man. Now, new evidence suggests that Stephanie Carmichael may have had a secret lover, and that person could be the real killer. The tension this podcast creates bleeds into Ffion’s real life in the most unexpected—and chilling—ways.
And just when you think these three threads are running parallel, Mackintosh slams them together in a climax that left me shaking. Every breadcrumb, every character, every line of dialogue was leading to this. And when it hit—I was stunned.
But beyond the mystery, what makes this book shine is the evolution of Ffion and Leo. Their chemistry is raw, real, and hilariously flawed. They bicker, they hide things from each other, they stumble—but at the heart of it, they care deeply. Watching them grow (and struggle) both as partners and as people adds so much depth to the story.
And that ending?
Let’s just say—I screamed. I jumped off the couch. I raised my fist in triumph and shouted, “HELL YEAH!” (Sorry, neighbors.) It was everything I wanted and more.
This series has me in its clutches, and I don’t want to be set free. I am as obsessed with these books as Ffion is with her true crime podcast. I’m already counting down the days until Book Four drops. Honestly, if Goodreads allowed it, I’d give this ten stars.
THANK YOU to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the incredible opportunity to read this unforgettable ARC. Clare Mackintosh, you’ve done it again—and I’m already bracing myself for the next wild ride you have in store.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
June 29, 2025
Honestly, I think Other People's Houses might just be my favorite installment of the DC Morgan series yet. I can't say that would actually call Ffion “lovable” (as the Goodreads blurb does) — I would never in a million years want to have to deal with her on a daily basis — but she's a fun character, and Leo's alright. Dave the dog, of course, is the real MVP of this entire series, and even if he's not quite a good boy, he's definitely, um … spirited.
Surprisingly, though, the chapters I found most entertaining this go-round involve Leo's ex-wife, Allie. Sure, she's absolutely insufferable and is in need of some serious therapy, but I really enjoyed reading about her escapades on The Hill. I'm not sure that most of her chapters were strictly necessary – they really don't contribute much to the core story, at least until the end — but I thought they were great. I was embarrassed for her, sure, but it was like a train wreck that I couldn't look away from.
I also really enjoyed the double mystery aspect. Ffion is working a murder case, and Leo is working on a burglary thing, and it's probably not spoiling anything to suggest that they get rather intertwined. The twist at the end was quite good, too, and I never saw the identity of the murderer coming.
This book also taught me some new vocabulary. There's “curb-crawling,” which is apparently what you do when you drive around slowly in order to find a prostitute. Who knew? Well, okay, maybe Hugh Grant is familiar with the term (too soon?), but I'd certainly never heard it before. And then there's the delightful word “gazump,” which I knew was a Britishism before I even looked it up because they have all the best words and involves a seller who accepts a higher offer on a house after having already agreed to yours. “Gazump” is definitely a word I'm going to work into my conversations as much as possible … “curb-crawling,” maybe not so much.
Do expect to see less of Ffion's family in this one. Her mother only barely makes an appearance, and Seren is basically nonexistent.
I did think that the big change in Leo and Ffion's relationship there at the end was a little predictable. I saw it coming from a mile away, and I get the feeling it's probably going to annoy me when the next book rolls around. Oh, well.
Anyway, if you've enjoyed the previous books in this series, there's a pretty good chance you'll enjoy this one too. I'll definitely keep reading them for as long as Clare Mackintosh keeps writing them, and I'm already looking forward to Dave's antics in book #4.
4.35 stars, rounded down.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is September 16, 2025.
Surprisingly, though, the chapters I found most entertaining this go-round involve Leo's ex-wife, Allie. Sure, she's absolutely insufferable and is in need of some serious therapy, but I really enjoyed reading about her escapades on The Hill. I'm not sure that most of her chapters were strictly necessary – they really don't contribute much to the core story, at least until the end — but I thought they were great. I was embarrassed for her, sure, but it was like a train wreck that I couldn't look away from.
I also really enjoyed the double mystery aspect. Ffion is working a murder case, and Leo is working on a burglary thing, and it's probably not spoiling anything to suggest that they get rather intertwined. The twist at the end was quite good, too, and I never saw the identity of the murderer coming.
This book also taught me some new vocabulary. There's “curb-crawling,” which is apparently what you do when you drive around slowly in order to find a prostitute. Who knew? Well, okay, maybe Hugh Grant is familiar with the term (too soon?), but I'd certainly never heard it before. And then there's the delightful word “gazump,” which I knew was a Britishism before I even looked it up because they have all the best words and involves a seller who accepts a higher offer on a house after having already agreed to yours. “Gazump” is definitely a word I'm going to work into my conversations as much as possible … “curb-crawling,” maybe not so much.
Do expect to see less of Ffion's family in this one. Her mother only barely makes an appearance, and Seren is basically nonexistent.
I did think that the big change in Leo and Ffion's relationship there at the end was a little predictable. I saw it coming from a mile away, and I get the feeling it's probably going to annoy me when the next book rolls around. Oh, well.
Anyway, if you've enjoyed the previous books in this series, there's a pretty good chance you'll enjoy this one too. I'll definitely keep reading them for as long as Clare Mackintosh keeps writing them, and I'm already looking forward to Dave's antics in book #4.
4.35 stars, rounded down.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is September 16, 2025.
March 4, 2025
Other People’s Houses was Unputdownable!
DC Ffion Morgan – Tourist season is in full swing in Cwm Coed when the body of a real estate agent – in town for a team-building weekend – is found floating in a kayak. Was her death the result of an accidental drowning? Or murder?
DS Leo Brady – Meanwhile, over the border in Cheshire Leo is dealing with a spate of burglaries in an upscale street known as The Hill.
Once again, Ffion and Leo both have their work cut out for them.
And what is the connection to the ten-year-old case of a married couple murdered in their own home? Presently the subject of a successful podcast #WithoutConviction, currently on its fourth season.
Just like the two previous books in this addictive series, I have no hesitation rating Other People’s Houses five stars. What a book! The mystery plot was multi-layered and as much as I tried to puzzle everything out, I was unsuccessful. There was a gasp-out loud-on-my-part twist three quarters of the way through that turned everything on its head, and the final reveal and the resulting fallout was pulse-pounding, action-packed, fast-paced and emotional. This instalment took place over a week, Sunday to Sunday, with some flashback reveals toward the end, and an epilogue/wrap-up of the remaining cliffhangers set a week later.
As you would expect, Ffion and Leo were the main narrators, and I relished spending more time in both their heads. Such great characters with amazing chemistry. Leo‘s snobby and manipulative ex-wife Allie (mother to his seven-year-old son Harris) was the third frequent narrator, with a connection to The Hill. Well, at least she was trying to form a connection, desperately and unsuccessfully inserting herself into the lives of the elite and sophisticated women of The Hill to elevate her social status. A unique way to give readers the inside track regarding the behaviour and secrets of The Hill families. Then there were the social media posts with fans of the podcast #WithoutConviction speculating on the cold case – a scandalous and welcome addition. My third favourite character, George, returned, along with a massive revelation from her past. Dave (Ffion’s dog) also featured prominently and was even given his own story arc.
In regards, to the crime/mystery plot, Other People’s Houses could be read as a standalone but given the abundance of recurring characters and their backstories if I were you, I would start at the beginning with The Last Party. Besides, Ffion and Leo’s meet cute, and slow-burn relationship is a must read. I’m crossing my fingers Clare Mackintosh intends to continue this series. There was nothing in the acknowledgements to indicate that this was the last book. And given that there were some things hinted at that weren’t addressed in this instalment, and because it ended on a tantalising note, I’m hoping there’s still more to come.
I’d like to thank Netgalley UK, Little Brown Book Group UK, and Clare Mackintosh for the e-ARC.
Release Date: 27th February 2025.
DC Ffion Morgan – Tourist season is in full swing in Cwm Coed when the body of a real estate agent – in town for a team-building weekend – is found floating in a kayak. Was her death the result of an accidental drowning? Or murder?
DS Leo Brady – Meanwhile, over the border in Cheshire Leo is dealing with a spate of burglaries in an upscale street known as The Hill.
Once again, Ffion and Leo both have their work cut out for them.
And what is the connection to the ten-year-old case of a married couple murdered in their own home? Presently the subject of a successful podcast #WithoutConviction, currently on its fourth season.
Just like the two previous books in this addictive series, I have no hesitation rating Other People’s Houses five stars. What a book! The mystery plot was multi-layered and as much as I tried to puzzle everything out, I was unsuccessful. There was a gasp-out loud-on-my-part twist three quarters of the way through that turned everything on its head, and the final reveal and the resulting fallout was pulse-pounding, action-packed, fast-paced and emotional. This instalment took place over a week, Sunday to Sunday, with some flashback reveals toward the end, and an epilogue/wrap-up of the remaining cliffhangers set a week later.
As you would expect, Ffion and Leo were the main narrators, and I relished spending more time in both their heads. Such great characters with amazing chemistry. Leo‘s snobby and manipulative ex-wife Allie (mother to his seven-year-old son Harris) was the third frequent narrator, with a connection to The Hill. Well, at least she was trying to form a connection, desperately and unsuccessfully inserting herself into the lives of the elite and sophisticated women of The Hill to elevate her social status. A unique way to give readers the inside track regarding the behaviour and secrets of The Hill families. Then there were the social media posts with fans of the podcast #WithoutConviction speculating on the cold case – a scandalous and welcome addition. My third favourite character, George, returned, along with a massive revelation from her past. Dave (Ffion’s dog) also featured prominently and was even given his own story arc.
In regards, to the crime/mystery plot, Other People’s Houses could be read as a standalone but given the abundance of recurring characters and their backstories if I were you, I would start at the beginning with The Last Party. Besides, Ffion and Leo’s meet cute, and slow-burn relationship is a must read. I’m crossing my fingers Clare Mackintosh intends to continue this series. There was nothing in the acknowledgements to indicate that this was the last book. And given that there were some things hinted at that weren’t addressed in this instalment, and because it ended on a tantalising note, I’m hoping there’s still more to come.
I’d like to thank Netgalley UK, Little Brown Book Group UK, and Clare Mackintosh for the e-ARC.
Release Date: 27th February 2025.
April 28, 2025
Another great read in a series I’ve grown fond of. Excellent character in Leo and Ffion - not forgetting flatulent Dave. Lots of twists and turns with an outcome I haven’t foreseen in more ways than one!
December 9, 2024
This series just keeps getting better with each new installment. I love Ffion, Leo and Dave the dog.
Always a pleasure to be back on the case with Ffion. When a woman’s body is found in in a kayak on the lake, Ffion is called in to investigate. At the same time, her boyfriend, Leo is investigating a series of house break ins in a very exclusive suburb. They both have their hands full with multiple suspects and motives. While this is all happening, the country is hooked to a new true crime podcast, Ffion is trying to find a new home and Leo is struggling with his ex-wife Allie, who seems to have become part of his case.
There is so much to enjoy about this series. The setting is gorgeous, the banter between that characters makes me laugh, Dave the dog is just hilarious, and I love the Welsh language that is interspersed throughout the story. It is a clever case and not at all predictable. I do hope that we will have more of these characters, especially with that ending.
Thanks so much to Little, Brown Book Group for my early copy of this book to read. Out in the world on February 27th.
Always a pleasure to be back on the case with Ffion. When a woman’s body is found in in a kayak on the lake, Ffion is called in to investigate. At the same time, her boyfriend, Leo is investigating a series of house break ins in a very exclusive suburb. They both have their hands full with multiple suspects and motives. While this is all happening, the country is hooked to a new true crime podcast, Ffion is trying to find a new home and Leo is struggling with his ex-wife Allie, who seems to have become part of his case.
There is so much to enjoy about this series. The setting is gorgeous, the banter between that characters makes me laugh, Dave the dog is just hilarious, and I love the Welsh language that is interspersed throughout the story. It is a clever case and not at all predictable. I do hope that we will have more of these characters, especially with that ending.
Thanks so much to Little, Brown Book Group for my early copy of this book to read. Out in the world on February 27th.
September 9, 2025
DS Leo Brady and DC Ffion Morgan are back in Other People's Houses! I enjoyed the first two books in this series and was ready to get back to doing my own super sleuthing along with these two investigators! DS Leo Brady is investigating burglaries in a ritzy and posh neighborhood. DC Ffion Morgan is investigating the case of a murdered estate agent.
This book started on the slower side, and I kept wanting to move it along as I was waiting (hoping) for something exciting to happen!! But by the 50% mark, I was fully invested and as things came together in both cases it became crystal clear that they might have something in common!
I enjoy both Leo and Ffion. They are interesting on their own and I enjoy their relationship. They have a great banter between them not to mention the chemistry. I also enjoyed how Clare Mackintosh shows both their personal lives along with their professional lives. Leo is dealing with his obnoxious and scheming ex-wife while Ffion is trying to find an affordable place to live.
As with the other books in the series, this book was well thought out, wonderfully written and had a nice number of secrets, lies, twists, tension, danger, and interesting characters. I just wish this book moved a little faster in the first half. This book also had a moment where I was holding my breath and keeping my fingers crossed. The ending was very nicely done. Plus, there are some Welsh words in this book so readers can learn a little Welsh along with Leo!
I had both the book and the audiobook. I thought the audiobook was very well done.
A Witches Words Buddy read with Mary Beth. Please read her review as well to get her thoughts on Other People's Houses.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark, Highbridge Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
This book started on the slower side, and I kept wanting to move it along as I was waiting (hoping) for something exciting to happen!! But by the 50% mark, I was fully invested and as things came together in both cases it became crystal clear that they might have something in common!
I enjoy both Leo and Ffion. They are interesting on their own and I enjoy their relationship. They have a great banter between them not to mention the chemistry. I also enjoyed how Clare Mackintosh shows both their personal lives along with their professional lives. Leo is dealing with his obnoxious and scheming ex-wife while Ffion is trying to find an affordable place to live.
As with the other books in the series, this book was well thought out, wonderfully written and had a nice number of secrets, lies, twists, tension, danger, and interesting characters. I just wish this book moved a little faster in the first half. This book also had a moment where I was holding my breath and keeping my fingers crossed. The ending was very nicely done. Plus, there are some Welsh words in this book so readers can learn a little Welsh along with Leo!
I had both the book and the audiobook. I thought the audiobook was very well done.
A Witches Words Buddy read with Mary Beth. Please read her review as well to get her thoughts on Other People's Houses.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark, Highbridge Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
January 2, 2026
"You want what they have, but what price would you pay?"
"The Hill is the kind of place everyone wants to live: luxurious, exclusive and safe. But now someone is breaking and entering these Cheshire homes one by one..."
Unbelievable and so unexpected to be this chilling!!! This is the 3rd in the DC Morgan series and absolutely the best one!
There are 3 cases going on at the same time and will soon diverge into an incredible finish. The climax and ending is so surprising. With DC Ffion and her boyfriend DS Leo, and of course the incredible Dave the dog, make up a strong team to help solve the crimes committed with the help of the podcast Without Conviction.
When a real estate agent, Natasha, is found dead in a kayak, the team works tirelessly putting the pieces together to solve. Several break-ins into the posh neighborhood on the street, with nothing missing, but obvious signs the intruder is looking for something. Then a cold case of the Carmichael couple brutally murdered is on everyone's list to solve. Could all of this be connected?
You won't believe what is behind all the trio of crimes. A shocking and unexpected reveal.
Great job once again to Clare Mackintosh who always captures the readers attention and leaves the heart and mind wanting more each time. This one does not disappoint. A must-read!!
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this incredible ARC in exchange for my honest review.
"The Hill is the kind of place everyone wants to live: luxurious, exclusive and safe. But now someone is breaking and entering these Cheshire homes one by one..."
Unbelievable and so unexpected to be this chilling!!! This is the 3rd in the DC Morgan series and absolutely the best one!
There are 3 cases going on at the same time and will soon diverge into an incredible finish. The climax and ending is so surprising. With DC Ffion and her boyfriend DS Leo, and of course the incredible Dave the dog, make up a strong team to help solve the crimes committed with the help of the podcast Without Conviction.
When a real estate agent, Natasha, is found dead in a kayak, the team works tirelessly putting the pieces together to solve. Several break-ins into the posh neighborhood on the street, with nothing missing, but obvious signs the intruder is looking for something. Then a cold case of the Carmichael couple brutally murdered is on everyone's list to solve. Could all of this be connected?
You won't believe what is behind all the trio of crimes. A shocking and unexpected reveal.
Great job once again to Clare Mackintosh who always captures the readers attention and leaves the heart and mind wanting more each time. This one does not disappoint. A must-read!!
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for this incredible ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 29, 2025
4⭐
Genre ~ crime fiction
Series ~ DC Morgan #3
Others in the series ~ link to series page
Setting ~ Wales
Publication date ~ September 16, 2025
Publisher ~ Highbridge Audio
Est Page Count ~ 366 (p+ 62 chapters)
Audio length ~ 10 hours 21 minutes
Narrators ~ Chloe Angharad Davies, Joe Eyre, Penelope Rawlins
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ podcast, murder
Ffion & Leo are back investigating a murder and burglaries, respectively, tied to the fancy shmancy area known at The Hills. Leo’s ex wife, Allie, happens to live nearby with their son, Harris.
Wow, Allie was awful, truly awful. I didn’t even feel bad for her when she was being snubbed by her neighbors. Her annoyingness was too much at times and she got an excessive amount of page time if you ask me.
Ffion is a take no crap, strong character. Dave the rescue dog makes some appearances, so that's always a treat.
The 10 year old cold case on the podcast adds a layer of intrigue on how that'll tie in.
Overall, another fast paced read with a heart pounding ending that I’ve come to expect from this author.
Series notes:
Ffion’s personal life is progressing, so if something like that bothers you then I suggest you read in order so you don’t get spoilers on that front. There’s a reference to what happened in book 2, but nothing too spoilery there.
Narration notes:
The podcast portion is done as a duet, so wondering why if it could be done for than why not the whole book?? With so many pov’s the story really could have benefited from it, but Chloe sounded fine.
Pre~reading notes:
Wasn’t able to get an answer to my question below, so I just went ahead and listened to book #2. It seems like there was a personal cliffhanger, not a plot one, but I’ll know more once I get going with this one.
Wondering if I have to read A Game of Lies real quick first
Genre ~ crime fiction
Series ~ DC Morgan #3
Others in the series ~ link to series page
Setting ~ Wales
Publication date ~ September 16, 2025
Publisher ~ Highbridge Audio
Est Page Count ~ 366 (p+ 62 chapters)
Audio length ~ 10 hours 21 minutes
Narrators ~ Chloe Angharad Davies, Joe Eyre, Penelope Rawlins
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ podcast, murder
Ffion & Leo are back investigating a murder and burglaries, respectively, tied to the fancy shmancy area known at The Hills. Leo’s ex wife, Allie, happens to live nearby with their son, Harris.
Wow, Allie was awful, truly awful. I didn’t even feel bad for her when she was being snubbed by her neighbors. Her annoyingness was too much at times and she got an excessive amount of page time if you ask me.
Ffion is a take no crap, strong character. Dave the rescue dog makes some appearances, so that's always a treat.
The 10 year old cold case on the podcast adds a layer of intrigue on how that'll tie in.
Overall, another fast paced read with a heart pounding ending that I’ve come to expect from this author.
Series notes:
Ffion’s personal life is progressing, so if something like that bothers you then I suggest you read in order so you don’t get spoilers on that front. There’s a reference to what happened in book 2, but nothing too spoilery there.
Narration notes:
The podcast portion is done as a duet, so wondering why if it could be done for than why not the whole book?? With so many pov’s the story really could have benefited from it, but Chloe sounded fine.
Pre~reading notes:
Wasn’t able to get an answer to my question below, so I just went ahead and listened to book #2. It seems like there was a personal cliffhanger, not a plot one, but I’ll know more once I get going with this one.
Wondering if I have to read A Game of Lies real quick first
November 1, 2025
Multilayered, nail-biting, and deliciously twisty, the third book in the DC Morgan series, Other People’s Houses, just might be my favorite one of the lot. From the complex relationships to the multiple interwoven police cases, there was just enough going on to keep me happily in the dark. After all, with three separate mysteries, my armchair sleuthing didn’t have a chance of working anything out before the well-timed reveals dropped the truth at my feet. Even better, however, it was structured in such a way as to keep me in the back foot throughout. Three cheers to the brilliance of Ms. Mackintosh’s writing and her obvious mastery of the unguessable police procedural whodunnit.
The best piece of this one, though, was the closer look at Ffion and Leo’s realistic romance and their dumpster fire of situation with his ex. Genuinely flawed, they felt at real as could be. From their true-to-life bouts of bickering to her wariness about fully committing, the continuing arc for both of these characters was simply sublime. In addition to that, we finally got to learn more about Leo’s life after getting to know all about Ffion in the prior books. Rounding out the convincing characters was Leo’s beyond delusional ex and a group of wealthy residents, who I couldn’t stop looking at with many a side-eye glance. Altogether, they made me fall for this one in no time at all.
All said and done, despite a somewhat slow burn first half, the interwoven dual plot lines and multiple POVs delivered a truly unputdownable novel. And that was even before I reached the fist-pumping conclusion. I can’t say anything more or it’ll give away the surprise, but, after following up the adrenaline-fueled climax, it was everything I could want from an ending—including the obvious inference that there’s another book coming. All I know is that I can’t recommend this one strongly enough. Just be sure to start at the beginning of the series. After all, not only are the first two both excellent books, but you quite simply shouldn’t miss a minute with Leo and Ffion. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
You want what they have, but what price would you pay?
The Hill is the kind of place everyone wants to live: luxurious, exclusive and safe. But now someone is breaking and entering these Cheshire homes one by one, and DS Leo Brady suspects the burglar is looking for something, or someone, in particular.
Over the border in Wales, DC Ffion Morgan recovers the body of an estate agent from the lake. There's no love lost between Ffion and estate agents, but who hated this one enough to want her dead—and why?
As their cases collide, Ffion and Leo discover people will pay a high price to keep their secrets behind closed doors…
Thank you to Clare Mackintosh and Sourcebooks Landmark for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: September 16, 2025
Content warning: burglary, threatening messages, murder, infidelity, kidnapping, pregnancy, mention of: blackmail
The best piece of this one, though, was the closer look at Ffion and Leo’s realistic romance and their dumpster fire of situation with his ex. Genuinely flawed, they felt at real as could be. From their true-to-life bouts of bickering to her wariness about fully committing, the continuing arc for both of these characters was simply sublime. In addition to that, we finally got to learn more about Leo’s life after getting to know all about Ffion in the prior books. Rounding out the convincing characters was Leo’s beyond delusional ex and a group of wealthy residents, who I couldn’t stop looking at with many a side-eye glance. Altogether, they made me fall for this one in no time at all.
All said and done, despite a somewhat slow burn first half, the interwoven dual plot lines and multiple POVs delivered a truly unputdownable novel. And that was even before I reached the fist-pumping conclusion. I can’t say anything more or it’ll give away the surprise, but, after following up the adrenaline-fueled climax, it was everything I could want from an ending—including the obvious inference that there’s another book coming. All I know is that I can’t recommend this one strongly enough. Just be sure to start at the beginning of the series. After all, not only are the first two both excellent books, but you quite simply shouldn’t miss a minute with Leo and Ffion. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
You want what they have, but what price would you pay?
The Hill is the kind of place everyone wants to live: luxurious, exclusive and safe. But now someone is breaking and entering these Cheshire homes one by one, and DS Leo Brady suspects the burglar is looking for something, or someone, in particular.
Over the border in Wales, DC Ffion Morgan recovers the body of an estate agent from the lake. There's no love lost between Ffion and estate agents, but who hated this one enough to want her dead—and why?
As their cases collide, Ffion and Leo discover people will pay a high price to keep their secrets behind closed doors…
Thank you to Clare Mackintosh and Sourcebooks Landmark for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: September 16, 2025
Content warning: burglary, threatening messages, murder, infidelity, kidnapping, pregnancy, mention of: blackmail
April 30, 2025
I’m sorry to report that I didn’t love this installment. The first party was great in every way, definitely a book I would love to read again. There were good parts in this as well, especially the ending which was dramatic and made me emotional as well. But there were some parts that dragged and I also got a bit frustrated by meddling Allie and her attention-seeking. Not sure we really needed her part at all, besides in the ending.
February 27, 2025
3.5 stars - Thank you to the publisher for an early ebook copy in exchange for my honest feedback!
3rd book in the DC Morgan Series
Loved book 1
Book 2 was pretty good
This one follows DC Morgan as she investigates the murder of a realtor who is found in a kayak. Meanwhile there’s an unsolved double homicide that is the topic of a podcast. And several burglaries in this community.
First off, always love DC Ffion Morgan. I think she’s a badass FMC which is why I keep returning to the series. I loved how many moving parts there were in this story and how many people have drama within drama. That being said, I thought this story had far too many characters leading to too many options for which one would be our culprit.. which in turn made the reveal pretty anticlimactic for me - though I did find the climax scene heart pumping and I was on the edge of my seat holding my breath.
This book does center around rich people which I have expressed not liking in books, however it wasn’t the over the top posh/uptight/old money snobby vibes I typically roll my eyes out so it didn’t really contribute negatively to my reading experience.
I think Mackintosh is an excellent writer and storyteller.
I liked this one slightly more than the 2nd book, but not as much as the first.
Video review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2mpsKfT/
3rd book in the DC Morgan Series
Loved book 1
Book 2 was pretty good
This one follows DC Morgan as she investigates the murder of a realtor who is found in a kayak. Meanwhile there’s an unsolved double homicide that is the topic of a podcast. And several burglaries in this community.
First off, always love DC Ffion Morgan. I think she’s a badass FMC which is why I keep returning to the series. I loved how many moving parts there were in this story and how many people have drama within drama. That being said, I thought this story had far too many characters leading to too many options for which one would be our culprit.. which in turn made the reveal pretty anticlimactic for me - though I did find the climax scene heart pumping and I was on the edge of my seat holding my breath.
This book does center around rich people which I have expressed not liking in books, however it wasn’t the over the top posh/uptight/old money snobby vibes I typically roll my eyes out so it didn’t really contribute negatively to my reading experience.
I think Mackintosh is an excellent writer and storyteller.
I liked this one slightly more than the 2nd book, but not as much as the first.
Video review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT2mpsKfT/
September 15, 2025
4.25 stars "You want what they have, but what price would you pay?"
The latest installment in the DC Ffion Morgan series, Clare Mackintosh showcases her literary prowess. Ffion and her boyfriend DS Leo Brady are both tasked with different cases. In a tourist area, a real estate agent is found dead in a kayak. Across town in Cheshire, Leo is called on to investigate the latest in a string of robberies in the exclusive, wealthy enclave of The Hill. It's so pretentious that even the houses have names.
Meanwhile, Leo's ex-wife is trying to ingratiate herself in the social hierarchy of The Hill and is up to all sorts of antics. Finally, a double homicide from ten years earlier is being investigated again due to a true crime podcast.
This was so fun to read as a stand-alone novel! The characters are richly layered in this propulsive thriller. It is masterfully written as three separate cases intertwine and connect. Things are not as they seem and come barreling to the finish line. I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Sourcebooks Landmark, and Clare Mackintosh for an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
The latest installment in the DC Ffion Morgan series, Clare Mackintosh showcases her literary prowess. Ffion and her boyfriend DS Leo Brady are both tasked with different cases. In a tourist area, a real estate agent is found dead in a kayak. Across town in Cheshire, Leo is called on to investigate the latest in a string of robberies in the exclusive, wealthy enclave of The Hill. It's so pretentious that even the houses have names.
Meanwhile, Leo's ex-wife is trying to ingratiate herself in the social hierarchy of The Hill and is up to all sorts of antics. Finally, a double homicide from ten years earlier is being investigated again due to a true crime podcast.
This was so fun to read as a stand-alone novel! The characters are richly layered in this propulsive thriller. It is masterfully written as three separate cases intertwine and connect. Things are not as they seem and come barreling to the finish line. I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Sourcebooks Landmark, and Clare Mackintosh for an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 12, 2025
Keeping up with the Hill-Dashians.
On The Hill, a luxurious and tightly guarded enclave in Cheshire, the residents pride themselves on safety and exclusivity. But a string of break-ins unsettles the community, and DS Leo Brady soon suspects the burglar isn’t after valuables but something - or someone - specific. Across the border in Wales, DC Ffion Morgan investigates the body of an estate agent pulled from a lake. There’s no shortage of people who might have wished her harm, but what motive could drive someone to murder? As Leo and Ffion’s cases begin to intersect, a true crime podcast dredging up a cold case adds yet another layer to the mystery, exposing just how far people will go to protect their secrets behind closed doors.
I’ll admit I was almost ready to give up on Clare Mackintosh's DC Morgan series after the first two installments - the debut case never fully gripped me, and the leads annoyed me in the second book - but I’m glad I didn’t because "Other People’s Houses", the third book in the series, is its strongest installment yet.
For once, DC Ffion Morgan and DS Leo Brady are working on two separate, seemingly unconnected cases, but they finally feel like a partnership worth investing in, both professionally and personally. Surprisingly, one of the real standouts is Leo’s ex, Allie. She is given a surprisingly vital role and makes the perfect antagonist you love to hate - but that you cannot help but start to feel sorry for the more you read about her antics.
For once, DC Ffion Morgan and DS Leo Brady are working on two separate, seemingly unconnected cases, but they finally feel like a partnership worth investing in, both professionally and personally. Surprisingly, one of the real standouts is Leo���s ex, Allie. She is given a surprisingly vital role and makes the perfect antagonist you love to hate - but that you cannot help but start to feel sorry for the more you read about her antics.
Interestingly, Mackintosh pares back some of the series’ usual features: there’s less focus on the Welsh scenery and fewer appearances from Ffion’s family. Yet this tighter focus works in the book’s favor, keeping the spotlight squarely on the cases and characters driving the story, and the intriguing cases that may just tie together in the end.
"Other People’s Houses" works as a standalone, and you could jump in here without having read the first two books, but I’d recommend starting at the beginning to fully appreciate the character arcs and relationships.
I was fortunate to receive copies in both digital and audiobook formats, which made for an immersive experience. The audiobook, narrated by Joe Eyre, Chloe Angharad Davies, and Penelope Rawlins, captures the characters’ voices and Welsh pronunciations beautifully. That said, elements like online chat logs including details such as time stamps didn’t translate quite as smoothly to audio, occasionally pulling me out of the narrative.
On a final note, the coming change in Ffion and Leo’s relationship was both predictable and slightly out of character, leaving me a little wary - but mostly curious - about how it will unfold in the next book - one that I'll definitely be reading. Until then, „Other People’s Houses“ delivers gripping cases, strong character work, and some of the most compelling writing in the series so far.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and high | Highbridge Audio for providing me with copies of the book and the audiobook via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Both the print and the audio version of "Other People's Houses" is slated to be released on September 16, 2025.
On The Hill, a luxurious and tightly guarded enclave in Cheshire, the residents pride themselves on safety and exclusivity. But a string of break-ins unsettles the community, and DS Leo Brady soon suspects the burglar isn’t after valuables but something - or someone - specific. Across the border in Wales, DC Ffion Morgan investigates the body of an estate agent pulled from a lake. There’s no shortage of people who might have wished her harm, but what motive could drive someone to murder? As Leo and Ffion’s cases begin to intersect, a true crime podcast dredging up a cold case adds yet another layer to the mystery, exposing just how far people will go to protect their secrets behind closed doors.
I’ll admit I was almost ready to give up on Clare Mackintosh's DC Morgan series after the first two installments - the debut case never fully gripped me, and the leads annoyed me in the second book - but I’m glad I didn’t because "Other People’s Houses", the third book in the series, is its strongest installment yet.
For once, DC Ffion Morgan and DS Leo Brady are working on two separate, seemingly unconnected cases, but they finally feel like a partnership worth investing in, both professionally and personally. Surprisingly, one of the real standouts is Leo’s ex, Allie. She is given a surprisingly vital role and makes the perfect antagonist you love to hate - but that you cannot help but start to feel sorry for the more you read about her antics.
For once, DC Ffion Morgan and DS Leo Brady are working on two separate, seemingly unconnected cases, but they finally feel like a partnership worth investing in, both professionally and personally. Surprisingly, one of the real standouts is Leo���s ex, Allie. She is given a surprisingly vital role and makes the perfect antagonist you love to hate - but that you cannot help but start to feel sorry for the more you read about her antics.
Interestingly, Mackintosh pares back some of the series’ usual features: there’s less focus on the Welsh scenery and fewer appearances from Ffion’s family. Yet this tighter focus works in the book’s favor, keeping the spotlight squarely on the cases and characters driving the story, and the intriguing cases that may just tie together in the end.
"Other People’s Houses" works as a standalone, and you could jump in here without having read the first two books, but I’d recommend starting at the beginning to fully appreciate the character arcs and relationships.
I was fortunate to receive copies in both digital and audiobook formats, which made for an immersive experience. The audiobook, narrated by Joe Eyre, Chloe Angharad Davies, and Penelope Rawlins, captures the characters’ voices and Welsh pronunciations beautifully. That said, elements like online chat logs including details such as time stamps didn’t translate quite as smoothly to audio, occasionally pulling me out of the narrative.
On a final note, the coming change in Ffion and Leo’s relationship was both predictable and slightly out of character, leaving me a little wary - but mostly curious - about how it will unfold in the next book - one that I'll definitely be reading. Until then, „Other People’s Houses“ delivers gripping cases, strong character work, and some of the most compelling writing in the series so far.
Many thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and high | Highbridge Audio for providing me with copies of the book and the audiobook via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Both the print and the audio version of "Other People's Houses" is slated to be released on September 16, 2025.
May 23, 2025
*Trying to Impress*
This is book three in the DC Morgan series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would love to see another instalment to see how one particular storyline develops. The series is set in Wales and touches on the Cheshire force, which is over the border.
Currently, there are two cases running. DC Ffion Morgan is dealing with the body of an estate agent. At the same time, she is trying to find a place to live, but estate agents are not her favourite people.
In Cheshire, DS Leo Brady, Ffion’s boyfriend, is dealing with a case of breaking and entering. This seems strange as the perpetrator seems to be looking for something specific. The burglar leaves expensive jewellery, but hardly anything is taken. The case baffles because the burglaries take place on an exclusive area of expensive homes called ‘The Hill’.
There are also hilarious scenes where DS Brady’s ex-wife is trying to keep up with the Joneses. She lives just off the hill and is trying to ingratiate herself into the group of women who live there. She aspires to be like them and closes her ears to criticism or advice from her ex. One day, this decision will come back to haunt her.
As the two police forces border each other, sometimes cases can collide, and this is the case. The murderer in Ffion’s case lives on the hill, and the burglar in Leo’s case escalates to murder. In both cases, the murderers are hiding in plain sight, along with many secrets.
This is book three in the DC Morgan series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would love to see another instalment to see how one particular storyline develops. The series is set in Wales and touches on the Cheshire force, which is over the border.
Currently, there are two cases running. DC Ffion Morgan is dealing with the body of an estate agent. At the same time, she is trying to find a place to live, but estate agents are not her favourite people.
In Cheshire, DS Leo Brady, Ffion’s boyfriend, is dealing with a case of breaking and entering. This seems strange as the perpetrator seems to be looking for something specific. The burglar leaves expensive jewellery, but hardly anything is taken. The case baffles because the burglaries take place on an exclusive area of expensive homes called ‘The Hill’.
There are also hilarious scenes where DS Brady’s ex-wife is trying to keep up with the Joneses. She lives just off the hill and is trying to ingratiate herself into the group of women who live there. She aspires to be like them and closes her ears to criticism or advice from her ex. One day, this decision will come back to haunt her.
As the two police forces border each other, sometimes cases can collide, and this is the case. The murderer in Ffion’s case lives on the hill, and the burglar in Leo’s case escalates to murder. In both cases, the murderers are hiding in plain sight, along with many secrets.
January 7, 2026
Another great addition to the DC Morgan series. This was a very fun mystery, but I also really enjoyed all the interpersonal developments with Ffion and Leo.
As far as the ending goes, I hope this means we'll definitely be getting a Book #4!!
Full review to come...stay tuned!!!
As far as the ending goes, I hope this means we'll definitely be getting a Book #4!!
Full review to come...stay tuned!!!
October 29, 2025
Leo's glad to leave the Hill for the day. It might be luxurious and exclusive, but it's crawling with lies and deception, and being there makes him itch.
Can a series of burglaries in a wealthy neighborhood be connected to a long-ago unsolved murder case?
Mackintosh presents an enjoyable new book in this fine series. There's a lot going on here. In addition to the intriguing mystery, Ffion is searching for a new place to live (Dave the dog is NOT helping with this endeavor), while also wrestling with her feelings for Leo.
The somewhat momentous revelation at the end of the book makes me wonder if this is perhaps the concluding chapter.
I hope not. I'd like this series to go on and on.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for sharing.
Can a series of burglaries in a wealthy neighborhood be connected to a long-ago unsolved murder case?
Mackintosh presents an enjoyable new book in this fine series. There's a lot going on here. In addition to the intriguing mystery, Ffion is searching for a new place to live (Dave the dog is NOT helping with this endeavor), while also wrestling with her feelings for Leo.
The somewhat momentous revelation at the end of the book makes me wonder if this is perhaps the concluding chapter.
I hope not. I'd like this series to go on and on.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for sharing.
May 6, 2025
A book by Clare Mackintosh, a favorite author of mine, is always an unputdownable one!
And this series gets better and better with each new installment!
DC Ffion Morgan recovers a body of an estate agent, Natasha, in the Mirror Lake in Cwm Coed in Wales, when she is team- building with her colleagues.
It could be a weird accident or murder, but I'm not going to spoil your reading.
DS Leo Brady in Cheshire is trying to solve a series of burglaries in The Hill, a rich, luxury, neighbourhood full of secrets, gossip and jealousy .
And at the same time, the police is going through all the old evidences and new ones of an unsolved case, a double murder that happened 10 years ago.
With Allie shenanigans, Leo ex-wife, his son Harris to worry about, Dave, Ffion's flatulent dog, all the busybodies and tourists in town their hands are full!
Leo and Ffion characters development is even better then in the previous books and it's beautiful to see the amazing chemistry and the love between them.
I had some suspicions about this three cases, but I never expected how this turned out in the end!
Fast, paced, heart beating rapidly, saying to myself OMG I can't believe this is happening, almost like a Fast and Furious film!
Absolutely fantastic!!!
And this series gets better and better with each new installment!
DC Ffion Morgan recovers a body of an estate agent, Natasha, in the Mirror Lake in Cwm Coed in Wales, when she is team- building with her colleagues.
It could be a weird accident or murder, but I'm not going to spoil your reading.
DS Leo Brady in Cheshire is trying to solve a series of burglaries in The Hill, a rich, luxury, neighbourhood full of secrets, gossip and jealousy .
And at the same time, the police is going through all the old evidences and new ones of an unsolved case, a double murder that happened 10 years ago.
With Allie shenanigans, Leo ex-wife, his son Harris to worry about, Dave, Ffion's flatulent dog, all the busybodies and tourists in town their hands are full!
Leo and Ffion characters development is even better then in the previous books and it's beautiful to see the amazing chemistry and the love between them.
I had some suspicions about this three cases, but I never expected how this turned out in the end!
Fast, paced, heart beating rapidly, saying to myself OMG I can't believe this is happening, almost like a Fast and Furious film!
Absolutely fantastic!!!
August 31, 2025
One of the things that hits right with this author is that she builds a main character who is tough but vulnerable too. We see her weaknesses and get to cheer her on as her love interest grows. I think this story is one where she only gets in trouble from her boss one time! lol
Smartly written with two separate crimes that start combining into one, we get to follow both Ffion and Leo as they do what they do best through the intense pressures and the race against the clock.
Mackintosh’s books are mainly set in Wales, and in Other People’s Houses, the build-up and pacing are spot on. She delivers an awesome murder mystery tangle with a fabulous ending!
One issue in this one is the number of suspects. I did get lost a few times in the round-up of who is who. However, Mackintosh kills it in all other aspects.
This is an author who consistently delivers the suspense and weaves a web that will keep you guessing to the end!
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
** full review - https://amidlifewife.com/other-people...
Smartly written with two separate crimes that start combining into one, we get to follow both Ffion and Leo as they do what they do best through the intense pressures and the race against the clock.
Mackintosh’s books are mainly set in Wales, and in Other People’s Houses, the build-up and pacing are spot on. She delivers an awesome murder mystery tangle with a fabulous ending!
One issue in this one is the number of suspects. I did get lost a few times in the round-up of who is who. However, Mackintosh kills it in all other aspects.
This is an author who consistently delivers the suspense and weaves a web that will keep you guessing to the end!
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
** full review - https://amidlifewife.com/other-people...
September 13, 2025
Wish I knew this was part of a series before grabbing it from Netgalley. Solid police procedural! Plus- the audio was fantastic.
September 16, 2025
Clare Mackintosh has certainly done it again!
This is Book 3 of the DC Morgan Series. It is way too much fun reading about Ffion Morgan the Welsh detective. She certainly is one tough cookie!
In this novel we find her boyfriend Leo who is also a detective in the same constable’s office working on a totally separate case or so we think.
The relationship between the detectives both during and after work is quite fiesty.
Leo works on a burglary in a small and exclusive neighborhood called The Hill thus the title, Other People's Houses. The author brings out the difference between the have and have nots. Of course our hard working detectives are very far away from the lifestyles of these people with million dollar + homes and each having at least one full time staff person, a driver, a maid, a gardener or perhaps a chef.
Mackintosh did a fabulous job of keeping me involved in the plot starting out with an odd murder mystery when a young single estate agent is found dead in the river. There is plenty of who's sleeping with who which also makes things juicy. The “friendships” in the neighborhood also keep the storyline fun.
This storyline always kept me involved. Of course as I had read both books 1 and 2 of the series I was already in love with Ffion Morgan. I highly suggest you start your way through her adventures with Book 1 The Last Story, Book 2 Game of Lies and then read this strong Book 3.
Thank you to Clare Mackintosh as well as her publishers, Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Other People's Houses.
Thanks as well to NetGalley.
So what are you doing just sitting there? Go get yourself a copy of Book 1 or if you've been following Ffion grab Book 3.
Either way you are in for a big treat!
Publication Date…September 16th
This is Book 3 of the DC Morgan Series. It is way too much fun reading about Ffion Morgan the Welsh detective. She certainly is one tough cookie!
In this novel we find her boyfriend Leo who is also a detective in the same constable’s office working on a totally separate case or so we think.
The relationship between the detectives both during and after work is quite fiesty.
Leo works on a burglary in a small and exclusive neighborhood called The Hill thus the title, Other People's Houses. The author brings out the difference between the have and have nots. Of course our hard working detectives are very far away from the lifestyles of these people with million dollar + homes and each having at least one full time staff person, a driver, a maid, a gardener or perhaps a chef.
Mackintosh did a fabulous job of keeping me involved in the plot starting out with an odd murder mystery when a young single estate agent is found dead in the river. There is plenty of who's sleeping with who which also makes things juicy. The “friendships” in the neighborhood also keep the storyline fun.
This storyline always kept me involved. Of course as I had read both books 1 and 2 of the series I was already in love with Ffion Morgan. I highly suggest you start your way through her adventures with Book 1 The Last Story, Book 2 Game of Lies and then read this strong Book 3.
Thank you to Clare Mackintosh as well as her publishers, Sourcebooks Landmark for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Other People's Houses.
Thanks as well to NetGalley.
So what are you doing just sitting there? Go get yourself a copy of Book 1 or if you've been following Ffion grab Book 3.
Either way you are in for a big treat!
Publication Date…September 16th
September 16, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Other People's Houses is officially my top favorite in the DC Morgan series. In Wales, DC Ffion Morgan and her crew are trying to solve the case of a young real estate agent who dies during a work retreat. Meanwhile, over the border, Ffion's boyfriend, DS Leo Brady, is trying to determine why a series of wealthy homes are being burgled. Parallel to all this excitement is a true crime podcast focusing on a double homicide that happened in the area ten years ago. Even Ffion and Leo find themselves enthralled in the amateur sleuth investigation. In addition to the police matters, Leo's ex-wife, Allie, wants nothing more than to move up in the world and is growing concerned by Ffion's increasing presence in her ex-husband's life. The novel is told from the perspectives of Ffion, Leo, and Allie.
I thought the cases were great, and how Clare Mackintosh has the storylines collide in the end is nicely done. I loved the ending for Ffion and Leo, and I look forward to what is in store for them as we move to book four. I really wanted to hate Allie, but I ended up feeling really sorry for her. What a lonely woman. The scenes between Ffion and her police partner, George, were also touching.
The ARC includes a pronunciation guide for the Welsh language, a reading guide, and questions with the author Clare Mackintosh.
Expected Publication Date 16/09/25
Goodreads review published 24/08/25
#OtherPeoplesHouses #NetGalley.
Other People's Houses is officially my top favorite in the DC Morgan series. In Wales, DC Ffion Morgan and her crew are trying to solve the case of a young real estate agent who dies during a work retreat. Meanwhile, over the border, Ffion's boyfriend, DS Leo Brady, is trying to determine why a series of wealthy homes are being burgled. Parallel to all this excitement is a true crime podcast focusing on a double homicide that happened in the area ten years ago. Even Ffion and Leo find themselves enthralled in the amateur sleuth investigation. In addition to the police matters, Leo's ex-wife, Allie, wants nothing more than to move up in the world and is growing concerned by Ffion's increasing presence in her ex-husband's life. The novel is told from the perspectives of Ffion, Leo, and Allie.
I thought the cases were great, and how Clare Mackintosh has the storylines collide in the end is nicely done. I loved the ending for Ffion and Leo, and I look forward to what is in store for them as we move to book four. I really wanted to hate Allie, but I ended up feeling really sorry for her. What a lonely woman. The scenes between Ffion and her police partner, George, were also touching.
The ARC includes a pronunciation guide for the Welsh language, a reading guide, and questions with the author Clare Mackintosh.
Expected Publication Date 16/09/25
Goodreads review published 24/08/25
#OtherPeoplesHouses #NetGalley.
September 11, 2025
This is book 3 in the DC Morgan series and while you could read it without reading the others, there is a lot of character development between books so better to read them all in order. I really like the way multiple storylines were woven together in this one and it was a good mystery with a satisfying ending. I also like the story line between the two main characters and their relationship developments. I listened to the audiobook and I really loved the way the story was told, the characters really came to life. A string of burglaries in a rich neighborhood connect to a decade old unsolved murder. I don’t really want to describe this plot more or I think I will give spoilers, but it’s a really satisfying mystery full of good twists and reasonable clues left for the reader.
February 16, 2025
Ffion and Leo are back for the 3rd instalment in the series, again I liked both characters and probably Ffion the most I have in these books so far
This book deals with the very upper class area known as ‘The Hill’ and a spate of burglaries that are getting increasing violent….it also looks like a past double murder could be linked to them
Got to give a thumbs up to Allie ( Leo’s ex wife ) whose snobbery and desperation to be accepted are at first very funny but then to be pitied, an extremely complex personality but has parts we will all recognise whether admit it or not…..she plays a wonderful part
Now, there are lots of characters and as with the previous 2 I got some mixed up along the way and felt at times the book was never going to finish…I LOVED the authors stand alone books but have become a ‘liker’of this series, will continue to read them but there is always a yearning to go back to the psychological thrillers of the authors past
This book deals with the very upper class area known as ‘The Hill’ and a spate of burglaries that are getting increasing violent….it also looks like a past double murder could be linked to them
Got to give a thumbs up to Allie ( Leo’s ex wife ) whose snobbery and desperation to be accepted are at first very funny but then to be pitied, an extremely complex personality but has parts we will all recognise whether admit it or not…..she plays a wonderful part
Now, there are lots of characters and as with the previous 2 I got some mixed up along the way and felt at times the book was never going to finish…I LOVED the authors stand alone books but have become a ‘liker’of this series, will continue to read them but there is always a yearning to go back to the psychological thrillers of the authors past
September 16, 2025
5⭐️ If half your weekly screen time is spent on Zillow and you love crime novels, boy oh boy do I have the book for you!
Set in perfectly atmospheric North Wales, OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES follows the hilarious and (delightfully) hot messed DC Ffion Morgan as she solves crimes in between listening to a viral cold case podcast. The action packed plot really picks up when it’s discovered that her investigation of a dead estate agent somehow overlaps with her boyfriend’s rich people burglary case.
OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES filled the Will Trent sized hole in my heart. This series is a bit less gritty than Slaughter’s books but just as addictive. The little romantic B plot between Ffion and Leo makes me swoon and the humor is exactly my cup of tea. Also, you know I’m always in the mood for a perfectly imperfect dog.
Lastly, Ms Mackintosh has done it again! For a second time she made me think there was one little loose end left dangling that I don’t love and somehow it’s tied up flawlessly and was so freaking perfect I could melt.
You don’t absolutely have to read this series in order but I personally recommend it (especially since this installment doesn’t release for a few months!). If you start with THE LAST PARTY you’ll have the full experience and really get to know and love the characters and all their quirks.
🏆this might’ve overthrown THE LAST PARTY as my very favorite book in the series! HOSTAGE is my favorite standalone by the author.
🥳PUB DAY: SEPT 16th
Thanks to the pub for allowing me to be an early reader!
Set in perfectly atmospheric North Wales, OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES follows the hilarious and (delightfully) hot messed DC Ffion Morgan as she solves crimes in between listening to a viral cold case podcast. The action packed plot really picks up when it’s discovered that her investigation of a dead estate agent somehow overlaps with her boyfriend’s rich people burglary case.
OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES filled the Will Trent sized hole in my heart. This series is a bit less gritty than Slaughter’s books but just as addictive. The little romantic B plot between Ffion and Leo makes me swoon and the humor is exactly my cup of tea. Also, you know I’m always in the mood for a perfectly imperfect dog.
Lastly, Ms Mackintosh has done it again! For a second time she made me think there was one little loose end left dangling that I don’t love and somehow it’s tied up flawlessly and was so freaking perfect I could melt.
You don’t absolutely have to read this series in order but I personally recommend it (especially since this installment doesn’t release for a few months!). If you start with THE LAST PARTY you’ll have the full experience and really get to know and love the characters and all their quirks.
🏆this might’ve overthrown THE LAST PARTY as my very favorite book in the series! HOSTAGE is my favorite standalone by the author.
🥳PUB DAY: SEPT 16th
Thanks to the pub for allowing me to be an early reader!
June 18, 2025
DS Leo Brady is assigned to a case where someone is breaking into the homes of residents in a wealthy enclave, and his ex, Allie, a pathetic social climber, keeps trying to ingratiate herself with these people to no avail. His girlfriend, DC Ffion Morgan with the Welsh police, is investigating the death of a realtor. And many people are listening to a true crime podcast about a cold case murder. When these cases collide, it's apparent that many residents of "The Hill" have secrets that they don't want revealed, and that they will stop at nothing, even murder, to keep them private. A shocking revelation and a life and death car chase which endangers someone close to Leo may finally provide the answers. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
August 27, 2025
This book was a little slow in the beginning, but it definitely picked up the pace at the end! The law enforcement couple of Ffion and Leo are fun and you find yourself cheering for them. The author did a good job in pulling out emotions with certain characters, and there were some that were seriously unlikeable, but they were supposed to be. A good, solid thriller!!
Thank you to Net Galley and Sourcebooks for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Sourcebooks for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 30, 2025
It's wonderful to be back with DC Ffion Morgan again; this is such a great series.
This time we're hearing from Fi, her boyfriend DS Leo Brady, and--a new twist--Leo's ex-wife, Allie. Leo is investigating a series of burglaries at houses on The Hill, a place for the wealthy and exclusive. And guess what, The Hill just happens to be the place where Allie wants to live (she claims her house nearby is, in fact, The Hill) and where she's trying--way too hard--to fit in.
Meanwhile, Fi is looking into the murder of an estate agent, found dead in a canoe after a weekend away with her colleagues. And Fi finds herself captivated by a podcast detailing a cold case about the murder of a wealthy couple, the Carmichaels.
Because she's Clare Mackintosh, Mackintosh flawlessly weaves all of these intersecting cases together while simultaneously keeping us guessing at every turn. We also get a peek into the houses and lives of the rich. And wow, do we get to see their problems, as well as the secrets they are keeping!
I love the tone in these books; Fi is just the best character, with her sarcasm, humor, flaws, and real nature. It makes the books so easy-to-read, especially because the mystery aspect is full of suspense and tension. It's wonderful seeing Fi growing into her relationship with Leo, even if it's slowly and in Ffion style; it's especially notable with Allie lurking around every corner, ready to tear them apart. At first I was so irritated with the inclusion of Allie in the story, but honestly, she adds a nuance that provides emotional depth to the story.
Overall, this is a wonderful and suspenseful story with excellent characters.
I received a copy of this book from Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. Look for OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES in the U.S. on 9/16/2025!
This time we're hearing from Fi, her boyfriend DS Leo Brady, and--a new twist--Leo's ex-wife, Allie. Leo is investigating a series of burglaries at houses on The Hill, a place for the wealthy and exclusive. And guess what, The Hill just happens to be the place where Allie wants to live (she claims her house nearby is, in fact, The Hill) and where she's trying--way too hard--to fit in.
Meanwhile, Fi is looking into the murder of an estate agent, found dead in a canoe after a weekend away with her colleagues. And Fi finds herself captivated by a podcast detailing a cold case about the murder of a wealthy couple, the Carmichaels.
Because she's Clare Mackintosh, Mackintosh flawlessly weaves all of these intersecting cases together while simultaneously keeping us guessing at every turn. We also get a peek into the houses and lives of the rich. And wow, do we get to see their problems, as well as the secrets they are keeping!
I love the tone in these books; Fi is just the best character, with her sarcasm, humor, flaws, and real nature. It makes the books so easy-to-read, especially because the mystery aspect is full of suspense and tension. It's wonderful seeing Fi growing into her relationship with Leo, even if it's slowly and in Ffion style; it's especially notable with Allie lurking around every corner, ready to tear them apart. At first I was so irritated with the inclusion of Allie in the story, but honestly, she adds a nuance that provides emotional depth to the story.
Overall, this is a wonderful and suspenseful story with excellent characters.
I received a copy of this book from Sourcebooks Landmark and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review. Look for OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES in the U.S. on 9/16/2025!
June 15, 2025
Other People's Houses is the 3rd installment in the DC Morgan detective series and my favorite. I gave four stars to The Last Party and A Game Of Lies, both being well written and solid. Other People's Houses had multiple story lines, some intersecting, but all equally enthralling. I loved meeting Leo's ex-wife Allie(a pain in the ass), always love Ffion, enjoyed getting to know George better and overall had such a good time that I am really looking forward to the next one. And Leo is adorable, but that goes without saying!
Oh, and I thought the true crime podcast was a real thing and checked on Spotify to listen🤣
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
Oh, and I thought the true crime podcast was a real thing and checked on Spotify to listen🤣
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
August 29, 2025
˗ˏˋ 2 stars ⟡ ݁₊ .
sadly i think this book isn't for me. i was so confused for the majority of the book, and it kinda gave me a headache while reading it. there were at least 15 characters in this book. not only that, but they were all acting so similarly that it made me hard for me to differentiate them.
i'm just so sad that i didn't love this book as i keep seeing so many 4 or 5 star reviews...
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
sadly i think this book isn't for me. i was so confused for the majority of the book, and it kinda gave me a headache while reading it. there were at least 15 characters in this book. not only that, but they were all acting so similarly that it made me hard for me to differentiate them.
i'm just so sad that i didn't love this book as i keep seeing so many 4 or 5 star reviews...
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2026
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I need more of Ffion & Leo NOW please
I need more of Ffion & Leo NOW please
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,208 reviews