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The Mother Upstairs
She knows your secret. And she’s in your house.
Mellie’s future mother-in-law bursts into the bridal suite, a piece of paper clutched in her hand. ‘I know your secret,’ she says, a satisfied smile on her face. ‘And I will not let you marry my son.’
Two months later, anxiety twists in Mellie’s stomach as she watches the taxi arrive. She knew her mother-in-law would move in after her stroke, her husband Henry had insisted on it. But now they’re under the same roof, she knows she’s in danger…
Because locked is the attic is a piece of paper that could destroy everything. And Mellie knows that Pauline will expose her secret.
As Pauline rests, Mellie frantically searches the house for the key to the attic. But when she finds it and starts tearing through boxes of papers, her blood runs cold at what she finds. Hands shaking, she tries to make sense of the words in front of her, realising with a bolt of terror that Henry has his own dark secret. One that could destroy her.
Then she hears footsteps downstairs. The doctors said Pauline would be bedbound for weeks, but what if they were wrong? Neither woman knows what the other is truly capable of, and just how far they will go to protect their secrets. But who will make it out of this house alive?
An unputdownable and addictive thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Packed with twists, this psychological thriller is perfect for fans of Freida McFadden’s The Housemaid, The Girl on the Train and Colleen Hoover’s Verity.
Readers love Becca Day’s psychological
‘EVERYONE NEEDS TO DROP WHAT THEY ARE DOING AND ADD THIS ONE TO YOUR TBR! PERFECTION! I felt like I was on a rollercoaster… I was on the edge of my seat the entire time!… an utterly thrilling storyline that kept me turning the pages at lightning speed!’ arcreviews_by_m, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘MYYYYY GOOD LORD!!!! This was a wild ride from start to finish. The twists n turns had me on the edge of my SEAT!!!… WOW WOW WOW!!!!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Completely consumed my weekend… grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. I had plans, but all I wanted to do was keep reading… Had me constantly second-guessing everything. The suspense is relentless, and just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist sent me spiralling in a new direction… Keeps you hooked chapter after chapter.’ read_review_repeat, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Hot dang y’all!! This is how a thriller is done!… I thought I knew where it was headed, and then BANG! New direction! I loved the sudden shift! I started reading, and before I knew it, I was three-fourths done.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Oh. My. Gosh. I was NOT expecting that!!! What a page-turner! I binged this book… Wow!… Would give it 6 stars if I could.
Mellie’s future mother-in-law bursts into the bridal suite, a piece of paper clutched in her hand. ‘I know your secret,’ she says, a satisfied smile on her face. ‘And I will not let you marry my son.’
Two months later, anxiety twists in Mellie’s stomach as she watches the taxi arrive. She knew her mother-in-law would move in after her stroke, her husband Henry had insisted on it. But now they’re under the same roof, she knows she’s in danger…
Because locked is the attic is a piece of paper that could destroy everything. And Mellie knows that Pauline will expose her secret.
As Pauline rests, Mellie frantically searches the house for the key to the attic. But when she finds it and starts tearing through boxes of papers, her blood runs cold at what she finds. Hands shaking, she tries to make sense of the words in front of her, realising with a bolt of terror that Henry has his own dark secret. One that could destroy her.
Then she hears footsteps downstairs. The doctors said Pauline would be bedbound for weeks, but what if they were wrong? Neither woman knows what the other is truly capable of, and just how far they will go to protect their secrets. But who will make it out of this house alive?
An unputdownable and addictive thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Packed with twists, this psychological thriller is perfect for fans of Freida McFadden’s The Housemaid, The Girl on the Train and Colleen Hoover’s Verity.
Readers love Becca Day’s psychological
‘EVERYONE NEEDS TO DROP WHAT THEY ARE DOING AND ADD THIS ONE TO YOUR TBR! PERFECTION! I felt like I was on a rollercoaster… I was on the edge of my seat the entire time!… an utterly thrilling storyline that kept me turning the pages at lightning speed!’ arcreviews_by_m, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘MYYYYY GOOD LORD!!!! This was a wild ride from start to finish. The twists n turns had me on the edge of my SEAT!!!… WOW WOW WOW!!!!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Completely consumed my weekend… grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. I had plans, but all I wanted to do was keep reading… Had me constantly second-guessing everything. The suspense is relentless, and just when I thought I had it figured out, another twist sent me spiralling in a new direction… Keeps you hooked chapter after chapter.’ read_review_repeat, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Hot dang y’all!! This is how a thriller is done!… I thought I knew where it was headed, and then BANG! New direction! I loved the sudden shift! I started reading, and before I knew it, I was three-fourths done.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Oh. My. Gosh. I was NOT expecting that!!! What a page-turner! I binged this book… Wow!… Would give it 6 stars if I could.
- GenresThriller
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 2, 2026
214 people are currently reading
533 people want to read
About the author
Becca Day
6 books591 followersBecca Day lives in Surrey with her husband, two daughters and cocker spaniel. She studied acting at Guildford College and went on to start her own Murder Mystery theatre troup. It was this move that inspired her love of crime fiction, and when she sold the company she threw herself head first into crime writing. Her short fiction has won several prizes and The Girl Beyond The Gate is her first full-length novel. Aside from writing, she is also an avid reader and runs Reading Parties with fellow author William Shaw.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
March 11, 2026
Mellie has married Henry, the rich and very handsome, man of her dreams, after a short, whirlwind romance. Though the beginning of “her” married life isn’t what she was expecting, or hoped for, because on their wedding day, Pauline, Henry’s mother, suffers a stroke. So instead of getting away on a romantic honeymoon in the Caribbean, Henry decides that they should move in with “mother” to care for her, while she recovers and rehabilitates. Henry is a total mummy’s boy, and while Mellie is disappointed with the situation, she wants to make Henry happy. But Pauline knows Mellie’s secret, which she threatened to reveal to Henry before her stroke…
I really enjoyed this psychological thriller from Becca Day, and I was gripped from beginning to end, with the suspense, and all the twists and turns. I sympathised with Mellie, for the terrible childhood she had, and how Henry always puts his mother first, before her needs. Overall, I really liked the MC, though at times, she made wrong decisions, which I didn’t agree with. The ending was powerful, and totally unexpected, and Becca Day, is an author that I’ll definitely be looking out for.
Thanks to the author, Bookouture, and NetGalley, for providing me with this free ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
4 ⭐️
Available: 2nd March 2026
I really enjoyed this psychological thriller from Becca Day, and I was gripped from beginning to end, with the suspense, and all the twists and turns. I sympathised with Mellie, for the terrible childhood she had, and how Henry always puts his mother first, before her needs. Overall, I really liked the MC, though at times, she made wrong decisions, which I didn’t agree with. The ending was powerful, and totally unexpected, and Becca Day, is an author that I’ll definitely be looking out for.
Thanks to the author, Bookouture, and NetGalley, for providing me with this free ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
4 ⭐️
Available: 2nd March 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mellie didn’t have the best childhood, and she made damn sure her past wasn’t going to become her future. Now she’s married to Henry, the perfect man. The only problem? He’s a bit of a mama’s boy.
When his mother suffers a stroke at their wedding, Henry insists they move in with her to become her caregivers. But there’s a catch. Before the wedding, his mother was digging into Mellie’s past… and she’s uncovered something that would make Henry walk away if he ever found out.
Mellie is determined to make sure that never happens.
Hoo boy, this was a ride.
I was fully invested from start to finish. I’ll admit, some of the characters’ actions left me a little confused at times because they didn’t always feel logical. But aside from that, this was a solid thriller packed with unexpected twists.
And that ending? Definitely not what I saw coming.
When his mother suffers a stroke at their wedding, Henry insists they move in with her to become her caregivers. But there’s a catch. Before the wedding, his mother was digging into Mellie’s past… and she’s uncovered something that would make Henry walk away if he ever found out.
Mellie is determined to make sure that never happens.
Hoo boy, this was a ride.
I was fully invested from start to finish. I’ll admit, some of the characters’ actions left me a little confused at times because they didn’t always feel logical. But aside from that, this was a solid thriller packed with unexpected twists.
And that ending? Definitely not what I saw coming.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
THANK YOU NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHER FOR AN ADAVANCED COPY OF THIS BOOK.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day is the kind of psychological thriller that quietly tightens its grip until you realize you’ve been holding your breath for chapters.
From the very beginning, there’s an undercurrent of unease that never lets up. The premise alone is unsettling—a mother-in-law living upstairs is already enough to make anyone’s imagination run wild—but Becca Day takes that tension and layers it with suspicion, paranoia, and the creeping sense that something isn’t quite right. And just when you think you have it figured out? You don’t.
What really stood out to me was the atmosphere. It feels claustrophobic in the best way—like the walls are closing in along with the secrets. The pacing builds steadily, revealing just enough to keep you hooked without giving too much away. The twists aren’t thrown in just for shock value either; they feel intentional and satisfying.
The characters are messy, flawed, and at times frustrating—but that only makes the story feel more real. You’ll question motives, second-guess loyalties, and probably change your mind more than once about who to trust.
If you love domestic thrillers packed with tension, secrets, and that slow-burn dread that keeps you flipping pages late into the night, this one is definitely worth picking up.
A gripping, unsettling read that proves sometimes the scariest things aren’t monsters—they’re much closer to home.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day is the kind of psychological thriller that quietly tightens its grip until you realize you’ve been holding your breath for chapters.
From the very beginning, there’s an undercurrent of unease that never lets up. The premise alone is unsettling—a mother-in-law living upstairs is already enough to make anyone’s imagination run wild—but Becca Day takes that tension and layers it with suspicion, paranoia, and the creeping sense that something isn’t quite right. And just when you think you have it figured out? You don’t.
What really stood out to me was the atmosphere. It feels claustrophobic in the best way—like the walls are closing in along with the secrets. The pacing builds steadily, revealing just enough to keep you hooked without giving too much away. The twists aren’t thrown in just for shock value either; they feel intentional and satisfying.
The characters are messy, flawed, and at times frustrating—but that only makes the story feel more real. You’ll question motives, second-guess loyalties, and probably change your mind more than once about who to trust.
If you love domestic thrillers packed with tension, secrets, and that slow-burn dread that keeps you flipping pages late into the night, this one is definitely worth picking up.
A gripping, unsettling read that proves sometimes the scariest things aren’t monsters—they’re much closer to home.
March 3, 2026
This was a gripping and tense domestic thriller. Mellie has just got married but instead of being on honeymoon herself and her husband Henry are renovating his childhood home. Not a great start to married life when they have to have her mother in law living with them. Talk about a book filled with dark secrets and twists. Well this book was most certainly that. A slow burn of a read but one that really suited this story. Packed with suspense and mystery it kept me totally engaged the whole way through.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
You thought your mother-in-law was bad? Just wait until you meet The Mother Upstairs.
Mellie’s creepy mother-in-law claims she knows a secret that could ruin everything, and when she moves in, danger seems to lurk around every corner.
Fast-paced, twisty, and full of suspense, this psychological thriller is impossible to put down.
Mellie’s creepy mother-in-law claims she knows a secret that could ruin everything, and when she moves in, danger seems to lurk around every corner.
Fast-paced, twisty, and full of suspense, this psychological thriller is impossible to put down.
March 8, 2026
This is only my third read by this author yet each one had been such a great read - and this one now joins my 5* read stack.
I love the writing style which draws you in right from the start and has me completely unable to put the books down.
I also love that I can never work out the ending until the reveal and this, once again, had me making theories throughout, only to find that the next minute, there's be another twist that sent me off in a totally different direction again.
This book had me chopping and changing because as much as I could totally sympathise with Nellie - imagine having your mother-in-law living in your house with you and your new husband!! - I also needed to know what this secret was that she was hiding and to know whether that would change my view on her.
We follow the storyline over a dual timeline - which is my favourite format.
This way we learn much more about Mellie's childhood and upbringing alongside her search for the evidence - developing that connection between the reader and her as the story unfolds gradually.
I was completely immersed from start to finish and think I devoured this in mess than 2 days.
Every chapter had me sneaking another couple in until I'd read half the book!
I'm already looking forward to seeing what comes next from this author.
l
I love the writing style which draws you in right from the start and has me completely unable to put the books down.
I also love that I can never work out the ending until the reveal and this, once again, had me making theories throughout, only to find that the next minute, there's be another twist that sent me off in a totally different direction again.
This book had me chopping and changing because as much as I could totally sympathise with Nellie - imagine having your mother-in-law living in your house with you and your new husband!! - I also needed to know what this secret was that she was hiding and to know whether that would change my view on her.
We follow the storyline over a dual timeline - which is my favourite format.
This way we learn much more about Mellie's childhood and upbringing alongside her search for the evidence - developing that connection between the reader and her as the story unfolds gradually.
I was completely immersed from start to finish and think I devoured this in mess than 2 days.
Every chapter had me sneaking another couple in until I'd read half the book!
I'm already looking forward to seeing what comes next from this author.
l
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mellie and Henry are newlyweds, but instead of enjoying a honeymoon, they find themselves moving into Henry’s childhood home. The house needs renovating, and Henry’s elderly mother, Pauline, requires round-the-clock care after suffering a stroke.
Although Pauline is physically incapacitated, it quickly becomes clear that her mind is sharp—and she is determined to end her son’s marriage by any means necessary, knowing Mellie's darkest secret.
The Mother Upstairs is packed with twists and unpredictability. Becca Day delivers a tense, claustrophobic narrative that keeps you constantly on edge, never quite sure what will happen next.
I read this in one sitting in about an hour and a half. It’s fast-paced, gripping, and full of intrigue. A thoroughly compelling read that I would definitely recommend!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this.
Although Pauline is physically incapacitated, it quickly becomes clear that her mind is sharp—and she is determined to end her son’s marriage by any means necessary, knowing Mellie's darkest secret.
The Mother Upstairs is packed with twists and unpredictability. Becca Day delivers a tense, claustrophobic narrative that keeps you constantly on edge, never quite sure what will happen next.
I read this in one sitting in about an hour and a half. It’s fast-paced, gripping, and full of intrigue. A thoroughly compelling read that I would definitely recommend!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this.
March 6, 2026
I have read a few book by this author and this has been my favourite!
This is a psychological thriller about Mellie and her Mother in Law Pauline. Is it all in Mellie’s head or is Pauline trying to sabotage her relationship with her husband Henry?
The story is told solely from Mellie’s point of view, and is told through a dual timeline - present day and what happened to her as a child which is linked to a secret she holds.
I found this to be an easy read and was gripped throughout. The story developed steadily and kept throwing out little surprises.
Absolutely loved the ending… I did not see it coming at all!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a psychological thriller about Mellie and her Mother in Law Pauline. Is it all in Mellie’s head or is Pauline trying to sabotage her relationship with her husband Henry?
The story is told solely from Mellie’s point of view, and is told through a dual timeline - present day and what happened to her as a child which is linked to a secret she holds.
I found this to be an easy read and was gripped throughout. The story developed steadily and kept throwing out little surprises.
Absolutely loved the ending… I did not see it coming at all!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
This was a fast-paced psychological thriller with short, punchy chapters that kept me turning the pages. I loved the steady stream of twists, secrets, and tension woven throughout the story. The central mystery—what exactly the mother‑in‑law was holding over her new daughter‑in‑law—had me genuinely eager to uncover the truth.
I felt a real sense of empathy for Mellie. Being newly married and having to move in with her mother‑in‑law instead of enjoying that early newlywed bubble added such a claustrophobic, unsettling layer to the story. Her vulnerability made the suspense hit even harder.
A gripping, twisty read that delivers exactly what you want from a domestic thriller.
March 9, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this before the release date.
This story had me gripped from the very beginning. I was flying through this, eager to find out what's going on.
I really enjoyed the past/present timelines and getting to know Mellie and her background better.
The whole atmosphere was super eerie and creepy, especially all the scenes with Pauline, and then Henry's secrets.
It had me until the end and then it felt a little flat? I was really expecting some big crazy twist and to have my jaw on the floor but it was very predictable and I really wanted to be shocked. But that might be just a personal taste for thrillers.
Overall a great, fast paced, intriguing and suspenseful thriller that you won't be able to put down.
This story had me gripped from the very beginning. I was flying through this, eager to find out what's going on.
I really enjoyed the past/present timelines and getting to know Mellie and her background better.
The whole atmosphere was super eerie and creepy, especially all the scenes with Pauline, and then Henry's secrets.
It had me until the end and then it felt a little flat? I was really expecting some big crazy twist and to have my jaw on the floor but it was very predictable and I really wanted to be shocked. But that might be just a personal taste for thrillers.
Overall a great, fast paced, intriguing and suspenseful thriller that you won't be able to put down.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This psychological thriller was engaging with a few shocking twists. While some of those twists were a bit predictable, it was fun to understand the main characters point of view with HOW everything happened. I loved how we were able to go "back in time" and relive the main characters life from where everything started as well. It was definitely a quick read, but every chapter made me want to keep going. I overall enjoyed it and would recommend it to other psychological thriller readers, especially Frieda McFadden fans! ⭐️3.5/5
This psychological thriller was engaging with a few shocking twists. While some of those twists were a bit predictable, it was fun to understand the main characters point of view with HOW everything happened. I loved how we were able to go "back in time" and relive the main characters life from where everything started as well. It was definitely a quick read, but every chapter made me want to keep going. I overall enjoyed it and would recommend it to other psychological thriller readers, especially Frieda McFadden fans! ⭐️3.5/5
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Crazy story with a weird twist... The ending did it justice.
So much going on but don't want to give spoilers. Great characters and storyline.
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
So much going on but don't want to give spoilers. Great characters and storyline.
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day is a highly recommended psychological thriller which moves at a lightning fast pace. Take note that it should be titled The Mother-in-law Upstairs. In the opening before Mellie’s wedding to Henry her future mother-in-law, Pauline Winslow, confronts her saying, "I know your secret and I will not let you marry my son." After which the narrative jumps ahead two months and we learn that her mother-in-law had a stroke following this declaration.
Now Pauline is moving back home the home where Mellie and Henry currently live. She is purportedly completely incapacitated and requires for for everything, but Mellie has reason to believe Pauline is more capable than she's letting on. Mellie knows that Pauline will expose her secret, but Mellie is also looking into Pauline's secrets. While doing so, she discovers a secret of Henry's.
This is an entertaining, fast-paced psychological popcorn thriller that will hold your complete attention throughout and is exactly what you are looking for from Becca Day. Set all your disbelief aside and go with the flow. There is no way to predict where the plot is heading. Secrets abound and seem to multiply everywhere. As the unsettling narrative unfolds readers will begin to learn about some of these secrets, which all lead up to the revelation of what was Mellie's huge secret and an absolutely over-the-top final scene.
Mellie is a character that you will support and hope she comes out safe at the end. You know she had a tough childhood. As more and more secrets are exposed, her fear and anxiety is ever present and growing. It is clear that a threat is present and she must expose it. Pauline is the obvious antagonist, but she is bedridden, right? Or is she? And what's up with her loving husband Henry.
The Mother Upstairs is a good choice for those who enjoy fast-paced psychological thrillers. Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Now Pauline is moving back home the home where Mellie and Henry currently live. She is purportedly completely incapacitated and requires for for everything, but Mellie has reason to believe Pauline is more capable than she's letting on. Mellie knows that Pauline will expose her secret, but Mellie is also looking into Pauline's secrets. While doing so, she discovers a secret of Henry's.
This is an entertaining, fast-paced psychological popcorn thriller that will hold your complete attention throughout and is exactly what you are looking for from Becca Day. Set all your disbelief aside and go with the flow. There is no way to predict where the plot is heading. Secrets abound and seem to multiply everywhere. As the unsettling narrative unfolds readers will begin to learn about some of these secrets, which all lead up to the revelation of what was Mellie's huge secret and an absolutely over-the-top final scene.
Mellie is a character that you will support and hope she comes out safe at the end. You know she had a tough childhood. As more and more secrets are exposed, her fear and anxiety is ever present and growing. It is clear that a threat is present and she must expose it. Pauline is the obvious antagonist, but she is bedridden, right? Or is she? And what's up with her loving husband Henry.
The Mother Upstairs is a good choice for those who enjoy fast-paced psychological thrillers. Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you really think you have a mother-in-law from hell, I suggest you read this book. Then you’ll realize that there truly are mothers-in-law we should be genuinely afraid of.
I really enjoyed this book. I always wanted to keep reading because, with a shocking secret to be revealed right in the first chapter, we immediately want to know what it’s all about. But the juicy stuff doesn’t come right away, and we have to go through Mellie’s life story and her family past in order to understand why she’s so afraid that her witch of a mother-in-law, Pauline, will reveal her biggest secret. Pauline is not a typical mother or mother-in-law. She’s more like a demon’s spawn mixed with pure evil. And the poor thing has a stroke and becomes dependent on her son and daughter-in-law to take care of her… but is that really how it is?
Millie, forced to live under the same roof as her dear little Satan’s daughter of a mother-in-law, may truly be in mortal danger, and Henry has eyes only for his mother.
I didn’t like the ending. I found it very unfair. But not all books can have sweet, fluffy endings.
Thank you NetGalley for this amazing ARC
PT: Se achas mesmo que tens uma sogra dos infernos… aconselho a que leias este livro! Aí sim, vais perceber que afinal existem sogras das quais devemos mesmo ter muito medo…
Eu gostei imenso deste livro. Fui sempre querendo ler mais porque envolvendo um segredo cabeludo logo no primeiro capítulo queremos saber de que se trata. Mas o sumo não vem logo e temos que atravessar a estória de vida de Mellie, o seu passado familiar, de forma a entendermos porque tem ela tanto medo que a bruxa da sogra Pauline revele o seu maior segredo! Pauline não é uma mãe nem uma sogra típicas. É assim como um enviado do Demónio misturado com coisa ruim. E pobrezinha, tem um AVC, fica dependente do filho e da nora para cuidar dela… mas será mesmo assim?
Millie sendo obrigada a viver debaixo do mesmo teto que a sogrinha filha de Satanás pode mesmo estar a correr perigo de vida… e Henry só tem olhos para a mãe.
Não gostei do final. Achei muito injusto. Mas nem todos os livros podem ter finais fofinhos…
@bibliotecamil_insta
I really enjoyed this book. I always wanted to keep reading because, with a shocking secret to be revealed right in the first chapter, we immediately want to know what it’s all about. But the juicy stuff doesn’t come right away, and we have to go through Mellie’s life story and her family past in order to understand why she’s so afraid that her witch of a mother-in-law, Pauline, will reveal her biggest secret. Pauline is not a typical mother or mother-in-law. She’s more like a demon’s spawn mixed with pure evil. And the poor thing has a stroke and becomes dependent on her son and daughter-in-law to take care of her… but is that really how it is?
Millie, forced to live under the same roof as her dear little Satan’s daughter of a mother-in-law, may truly be in mortal danger, and Henry has eyes only for his mother.
I didn’t like the ending. I found it very unfair. But not all books can have sweet, fluffy endings.
Thank you NetGalley for this amazing ARC
PT: Se achas mesmo que tens uma sogra dos infernos… aconselho a que leias este livro! Aí sim, vais perceber que afinal existem sogras das quais devemos mesmo ter muito medo…
Eu gostei imenso deste livro. Fui sempre querendo ler mais porque envolvendo um segredo cabeludo logo no primeiro capítulo queremos saber de que se trata. Mas o sumo não vem logo e temos que atravessar a estória de vida de Mellie, o seu passado familiar, de forma a entendermos porque tem ela tanto medo que a bruxa da sogra Pauline revele o seu maior segredo! Pauline não é uma mãe nem uma sogra típicas. É assim como um enviado do Demónio misturado com coisa ruim. E pobrezinha, tem um AVC, fica dependente do filho e da nora para cuidar dela… mas será mesmo assim?
Millie sendo obrigada a viver debaixo do mesmo teto que a sogrinha filha de Satanás pode mesmo estar a correr perigo de vida… e Henry só tem olhos para a mãe.
Não gostei do final. Achei muito injusto. Mas nem todos os livros podem ter finais fofinhos…
@bibliotecamil_insta
March 14, 2026
This psychological thriller broke my brain and left it in a twist. I feel devastated for the main character and want to scream at everyone to JUST. STOP! I am officially scared.
On the day of her wedding, Mellie’s mother-in-law, Pauline, barges into her bridal suite, fuming with shock and rage, determined to stop the wedding after having learnt Mellie’s secret. However, when she suffers a stroke and becomes bedbound, the newlywed Mellie and Henry become her full-time carers. Mellie is terrified of her, obviously, but the locked attic in their semi-renovated house that previously belonged to Pauline terrifies her more. This house seems to be full of secrets, and Mellie’s survival instincts just won’t let her relax.
“The Mother Upstairs” by Becca Day was a fascinatingly quick read with short chapters and thrilling transitions from one to the next. When the attic suspense was initially introduced, I couldn’t help but find the similarities to “Keep It In The Family” by John Marrs. However, this book was truly and absolutely psychological in all aspects. I felt so much empathy for Mellie. At the end, I simply felt helpless, resentful, and annoyed.
Honestly, I was kind of disappointed because the end felt like something that would’ve actually happened in real life had this been a true story. However, I found Mellie’s secret to be extremely hyped up. Even the description of the book was built up quite a lot more than what it actually was, and I was able to predict most of the twists, unfortunately.
Regardless, I wholeheartedly appreciate the entire psychological aspect of this book. As the description also mentioned, this story will be thoroughly enjoyed by fans of books like “Verity” and “The Girl on the Train."
On the day of her wedding, Mellie’s mother-in-law, Pauline, barges into her bridal suite, fuming with shock and rage, determined to stop the wedding after having learnt Mellie’s secret. However, when she suffers a stroke and becomes bedbound, the newlywed Mellie and Henry become her full-time carers. Mellie is terrified of her, obviously, but the locked attic in their semi-renovated house that previously belonged to Pauline terrifies her more. This house seems to be full of secrets, and Mellie’s survival instincts just won’t let her relax.
“The Mother Upstairs” by Becca Day was a fascinatingly quick read with short chapters and thrilling transitions from one to the next. When the attic suspense was initially introduced, I couldn’t help but find the similarities to “Keep It In The Family” by John Marrs. However, this book was truly and absolutely psychological in all aspects. I felt so much empathy for Mellie. At the end, I simply felt helpless, resentful, and annoyed.
Honestly, I was kind of disappointed because the end felt like something that would’ve actually happened in real life had this been a true story. However, I found Mellie’s secret to be extremely hyped up. Even the description of the book was built up quite a lot more than what it actually was, and I was able to predict most of the twists, unfortunately.
Regardless, I wholeheartedly appreciate the entire psychological aspect of this book. As the description also mentioned, this story will be thoroughly enjoyed by fans of books like “Verity” and “The Girl on the Train."
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dark, suspenseful, creepy, and at times deeply disturbing, this psychological thriller was fast‑paced and utterly absorbing, I was hooked from the first chapter and it did not disappoint.
Mellie’s life begins to spiral when her future mother‑in‑law, Pauline, storms into her bridal suite claiming to know a devastating secret and vowing to stop the wedding. Two months later, after Pauline suffers a stroke and moves into their home at Henry’s insistence, Mellie grows increasingly uneasy. She knows the piece of paper that could destroy everything lies hidden in the attic and when she finally gets hold of the key, the chilling discovery she makes reveals that Henry has secrets of his own. As tension builds and footsteps echo through the house, it becomes painfully clear that neither woman truly knows what the other is capable of.
I really enjoyed this thriller, its pace, atmosphere, and steady drip feed of secrets kept me constantly guessing what would happen next. I found myself warming to Mellie, always hoping her secret wouldn’t be as bad as feared, and rooting for her even when everything around her seemed to crumble. Henry, on the other hand, felt distant and preoccupied, and I struggled to connect with him; his priorities often felt misplaced, and poor Mellie certainly didn’t get the easiest start to married life. And Pauline - what a character. If looks could kill, indeed. Every time she appeared on the page I felt a chill, and the author crafted that tension brilliantly.
This is my second book by Becca Day, and it’s another gripping and thoroughly enjoyable read. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for whatever she releases next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Mellie’s life begins to spiral when her future mother‑in‑law, Pauline, storms into her bridal suite claiming to know a devastating secret and vowing to stop the wedding. Two months later, after Pauline suffers a stroke and moves into their home at Henry’s insistence, Mellie grows increasingly uneasy. She knows the piece of paper that could destroy everything lies hidden in the attic and when she finally gets hold of the key, the chilling discovery she makes reveals that Henry has secrets of his own. As tension builds and footsteps echo through the house, it becomes painfully clear that neither woman truly knows what the other is capable of.
I really enjoyed this thriller, its pace, atmosphere, and steady drip feed of secrets kept me constantly guessing what would happen next. I found myself warming to Mellie, always hoping her secret wouldn’t be as bad as feared, and rooting for her even when everything around her seemed to crumble. Henry, on the other hand, felt distant and preoccupied, and I struggled to connect with him; his priorities often felt misplaced, and poor Mellie certainly didn’t get the easiest start to married life. And Pauline - what a character. If looks could kill, indeed. Every time she appeared on the page I felt a chill, and the author crafted that tension brilliantly.
This is my second book by Becca Day, and it’s another gripping and thoroughly enjoyable read. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for whatever she releases next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mellie and Henry are ready to start their new life together, but on the day of their wedding Henry's mother Pauline has a massive stroke. Henry's life changes because now he needs to also take care of his mother. The Mother Upstairs takes you on a journey of twists and turns that you never expect from page to page. Mellie has a secret and Pauline is the only one who knows about it, but now she cannot speak. Is Pauline really bed bound? Is Mellie insane?
Mellie and Henry move in with Pauline because she needs around the clock care. This is not the life that Mellie signed up for as a newlywed. It didn't help that Pauline did not like Mellie. That no one was good enough for her Henry. Mellie spends her days roaming around the home that is supposed to be theirs, but still feels like Pauline's. She wants her own home, a place that feels like hers. Not this strangers. Not Henry's mother because she hasn't liked her from the start. Pauline never gave Mellie a chance because she didn't come from the same caliber of family dynamics that Pauline did, which is why she isn't good enough for Henry in Pauline's eyes.
Becca Day takes you on a harrowing journey through the life of Henry, Mellie and now Pauline. What is Mellie's big secret that could destroy her marriage? Pauline can't tell him now because she cannot speak, right? This psychological thriller is one that I would compare to anything by Frieda McFadden, Shari Lapena and Collen Hoover. It will have you gripping the edge of your seat until the very end. And the twist at the end is EPIC. Run, don't walk to your local bookstore on March 6, 2026 and pick this one up.
Mellie and Henry move in with Pauline because she needs around the clock care. This is not the life that Mellie signed up for as a newlywed. It didn't help that Pauline did not like Mellie. That no one was good enough for her Henry. Mellie spends her days roaming around the home that is supposed to be theirs, but still feels like Pauline's. She wants her own home, a place that feels like hers. Not this strangers. Not Henry's mother because she hasn't liked her from the start. Pauline never gave Mellie a chance because she didn't come from the same caliber of family dynamics that Pauline did, which is why she isn't good enough for Henry in Pauline's eyes.
Becca Day takes you on a harrowing journey through the life of Henry, Mellie and now Pauline. What is Mellie's big secret that could destroy her marriage? Pauline can't tell him now because she cannot speak, right? This psychological thriller is one that I would compare to anything by Frieda McFadden, Shari Lapena and Collen Hoover. It will have you gripping the edge of your seat until the very end. And the twist at the end is EPIC. Run, don't walk to your local bookstore on March 6, 2026 and pick this one up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Mother Upstairs is one of those psychological thrillers that sinks its hooks in from the very first line. The setup is irresistible: a mother‑in‑law who knows too much, a secret locked in the attic, and a marriage built on far more cracks than Mellie ever realised. The tension starts early and never really lets up.
Mellie is a great central character — anxious, determined, and constantly trying to stay one step ahead even as the walls close in. Pauline, meanwhile, is the perfect unsettling presence. Even bedridden, she feels like a threat lurking just out of sight, and that simmering dread gives the whole book a wonderfully eerie atmosphere.
What I enjoyed most is how the story keeps shifting beneath your feet. Just when you think you understand the dynamic between Mellie and Pauline, a new layer peels back. And the discovery in the attic adds a sharp, unexpected twist that throws everything into question. The secrets in this house aren’t just dangerous — they’re competing.
The pacing is tight, the stakes escalate beautifully, and the final act delivers exactly the kind of breath‑holding tension you want from a domestic thriller. Fans of The Housemaid and Verity will feel right at home with the blend of paranoia, secrets, and shifting power plays.
A gripping, twist‑packed read that keeps you guessing right up to the last page.
with thanks to Becca Day, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Mellie is a great central character — anxious, determined, and constantly trying to stay one step ahead even as the walls close in. Pauline, meanwhile, is the perfect unsettling presence. Even bedridden, she feels like a threat lurking just out of sight, and that simmering dread gives the whole book a wonderfully eerie atmosphere.
What I enjoyed most is how the story keeps shifting beneath your feet. Just when you think you understand the dynamic between Mellie and Pauline, a new layer peels back. And the discovery in the attic adds a sharp, unexpected twist that throws everything into question. The secrets in this house aren’t just dangerous — they’re competing.
The pacing is tight, the stakes escalate beautifully, and the final act delivers exactly the kind of breath‑holding tension you want from a domestic thriller. Fans of The Housemaid and Verity will feel right at home with the blend of paranoia, secrets, and shifting power plays.
A gripping, twist‑packed read that keeps you guessing right up to the last page.
with thanks to Becca Day, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
March 5, 2026
The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day begins with what should be the start of wedded bliss. Henry and Mellie are newly married, and Mellie is looking forward to building their life together. There is one major complication, however. Henry is deeply devoted to his mother, Pauline, who suffered a stroke just as he and Mellie were married. Unable to bear the thought of placing her in a care facility, Henry brings Pauline to live with them.
Mellie has many plans for their future, including transforming the home where Henry grew up into something that truly feels like her own. But when it comes to Pauline, Mellie is uneasy. Despite Pauline’s inability to speak, walk, or even feed herself, Mellie regards her with a mix of contempt and suspicion. In fact, Mellie becomes convinced that Pauline’s condition may not be as severe as Henry believes.
There is another complication: Mellie herself is hiding secrets. As these slowly come to light, the story takes several surprising twists and turns. With Pauline living upstairs, even the normal pressures of a new marriage would be difficult to navigate. Yet Becca Day skillfully deepens the tension by presenting Mellie as an unreliable narrator, leaving readers questioning what is real and what is not.
The suspense remains taut throughout, making this a compelling and unsettling domestic thriller.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Mellie has many plans for their future, including transforming the home where Henry grew up into something that truly feels like her own. But when it comes to Pauline, Mellie is uneasy. Despite Pauline’s inability to speak, walk, or even feed herself, Mellie regards her with a mix of contempt and suspicion. In fact, Mellie becomes convinced that Pauline’s condition may not be as severe as Henry believes.
There is another complication: Mellie herself is hiding secrets. As these slowly come to light, the story takes several surprising twists and turns. With Pauline living upstairs, even the normal pressures of a new marriage would be difficult to navigate. Yet Becca Day skillfully deepens the tension by presenting Mellie as an unreliable narrator, leaving readers questioning what is real and what is not.
The suspense remains taut throughout, making this a compelling and unsettling domestic thriller.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Secrets… Everyone is so eager to uncover other people’s secrets, only to use them against the person in question in some cases.
People often focus solely on the bare facts, while the underlying reasons are rarely given any consideration. That’s a shame, because perhaps they would be able to show some understanding and leave
Pandora’s box neatly closed.
But never throw a stone when you live in a glass house.
It could come back to bite you…
Throughout the story, I felt sympathy for one of the characters and deep aversion toward another.
When someone is determined
at all costs to expose another person’s secrets, while that person desperately wants to keep them hidden, that’s when the sparks fly.
One of them, however, has far more to lose than the other…
I found this a very interesting book and once again the author managed to completely mislead me. I did not see this coming and, once again, I realized how incredibly far people are willing
to go to protect themselves.
I admit it—confessing is not easy—but I truly believe that there can be understanding for certain actions that are the result of
specific circumstances.
If the people around you are not open to that, then perhaps you’re better off without them.
I really enjoyed this book and therefore give it 5 stars.
Thank you.
People often focus solely on the bare facts, while the underlying reasons are rarely given any consideration. That’s a shame, because perhaps they would be able to show some understanding and leave
Pandora’s box neatly closed.
But never throw a stone when you live in a glass house.
It could come back to bite you…
Throughout the story, I felt sympathy for one of the characters and deep aversion toward another.
When someone is determined
at all costs to expose another person’s secrets, while that person desperately wants to keep them hidden, that’s when the sparks fly.
One of them, however, has far more to lose than the other…
I found this a very interesting book and once again the author managed to completely mislead me. I did not see this coming and, once again, I realized how incredibly far people are willing
to go to protect themselves.
I admit it—confessing is not easy—but I truly believe that there can be understanding for certain actions that are the result of
specific circumstances.
If the people around you are not open to that, then perhaps you’re better off without them.
I really enjoyed this book and therefore give it 5 stars.
Thank you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Title: The Mother Upstairs
Author: Becca Day
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: March 2, 2026
I had only read one other book by this author and it was a 5 star read. The storyline was unique and not at all predictable, so I had very high hopes for her newest release.
The first half of this book felt very familiar to me. I've read several books by other well-known authors with the same premise.
I felt that interspersing Millie's childhood/background amongst the present day storyline was super helpful and kept the tension high. I really felt sorry for childhood Millie. She had gone through so much and never truly felt loved and wanted. Adult Millie can be frustrating; making one questionable decision after another.
I was very thankful about halfway through the book when things really started to pick up. That's right about when the twists started to occur. Soooo many twists. I have to say, I was honestly shocked by the ending. I never saw that coming! With that being said, I do feel as though there were too many loose ends. I still have so many questions.
This book is definitely worth your time as long as you can get past the first half.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: Becca Day
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: March 2, 2026
I had only read one other book by this author and it was a 5 star read. The storyline was unique and not at all predictable, so I had very high hopes for her newest release.
The first half of this book felt very familiar to me. I've read several books by other well-known authors with the same premise.
I felt that interspersing Millie's childhood/background amongst the present day storyline was super helpful and kept the tension high. I really felt sorry for childhood Millie. She had gone through so much and never truly felt loved and wanted. Adult Millie can be frustrating; making one questionable decision after another.
I was very thankful about halfway through the book when things really started to pick up. That's right about when the twists started to occur. Soooo many twists. I have to say, I was honestly shocked by the ending. I never saw that coming! With that being said, I do feel as though there were too many loose ends. I still have so many questions.
This book is definitely worth your time as long as you can get past the first half.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
February 19, 2026
👀 T H R I L L E R T H U R S D A Y review 👀 featuring “The Mother Upstairs” by Becca Day!
Mellie is moments away from marrying the man of her dreams Henry, when his mother bursts in clutching a file folder. Pauline threatens Mellie that she knows her secrets and that she will not let Henry marry her. However, Pauline has a stroke on the spot and never gets a chance to divulge Mellie’s secrets.
Mellie and Henry get married anyways … but instead of living in their newlywed era, they must move into Henry’s childhood home and help take care of Pauline as she recovers. Pauline may not be able to speak for now, but eventually she could .. and eventually Mellie’s secrets could be exposed.
Now Mellie is forced to live with her mother in law who will do whatever possible to destroy her marriage. But how long can Mellie continue to tip toe around the truth?
💭 Yet another Becca Day thriller that I devoured in one sitting! Tense, suffocating, eerie and foreboding, I could literally feel the walls closing in on me while reading. Pauline is evil and calculating and will never approve of anyone in Henry’s life. Go into this unsettling and twisted story as blindly as possible and hold on tight!
Thank you kindly to @authorbeccaday @bookouture @netgalley for my advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review! This book releases on March 2, 2026!
Mellie is moments away from marrying the man of her dreams Henry, when his mother bursts in clutching a file folder. Pauline threatens Mellie that she knows her secrets and that she will not let Henry marry her. However, Pauline has a stroke on the spot and never gets a chance to divulge Mellie’s secrets.
Mellie and Henry get married anyways … but instead of living in their newlywed era, they must move into Henry’s childhood home and help take care of Pauline as she recovers. Pauline may not be able to speak for now, but eventually she could .. and eventually Mellie’s secrets could be exposed.
Now Mellie is forced to live with her mother in law who will do whatever possible to destroy her marriage. But how long can Mellie continue to tip toe around the truth?
💭 Yet another Becca Day thriller that I devoured in one sitting! Tense, suffocating, eerie and foreboding, I could literally feel the walls closing in on me while reading. Pauline is evil and calculating and will never approve of anyone in Henry’s life. Go into this unsettling and twisted story as blindly as possible and hold on tight!
Thank you kindly to @authorbeccaday @bookouture @netgalley for my advanced digital copy in exchange for my honest review! This book releases on March 2, 2026!
March 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A tense psychological thriller with a slow-burning build-up and plenty of suspense.
This was such a tense and addictive psychological thriller. Once the tension started building, it was very hard to stop reading.
Things I really enjoyed:
• The steady build-up of suspense
• The constant feeling that something was about to go wrong
• The pacing — it kept me turning the pages
• The psychological tension and themes of guilt and responsibility
I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next, and the story definitely had that “just one more chapter” effect.
My only small criticism is that the ending felt a little short. I would have loved a slightly longer resolution, maybe even a glimpse further into the future. Just to sit a bit longer with the aftermath of everything that happened.
That said, I actually appreciated that the ending wasn’t overly neat or perfectly “happy.” It felt more realistic, and sometimes stories are stronger when everything isn’t wrapped up perfectly.
Overall, a gripping and well-paced psychological thriller that kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC — all thoughts are my own.
A tense psychological thriller with a slow-burning build-up and plenty of suspense.
This was such a tense and addictive psychological thriller. Once the tension started building, it was very hard to stop reading.
Things I really enjoyed:
• The steady build-up of suspense
• The constant feeling that something was about to go wrong
• The pacing — it kept me turning the pages
• The psychological tension and themes of guilt and responsibility
I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next, and the story definitely had that “just one more chapter” effect.
My only small criticism is that the ending felt a little short. I would have loved a slightly longer resolution, maybe even a glimpse further into the future. Just to sit a bit longer with the aftermath of everything that happened.
That said, I actually appreciated that the ending wasn’t overly neat or perfectly “happy.” It felt more realistic, and sometimes stories are stronger when everything isn’t wrapped up perfectly.
Overall, a gripping and well-paced psychological thriller that kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC — all thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Becca Day took me on a wild ride and had my heart pounding for the better part of my evening! This book is about a mother-in-law who has recently had a stroke, but seems strangely aware of her surroundings after she moves in with her son and daughter-in-law (Mellie). Mellie soon realizes that her mother-in-law (Pauline) knows a dangerous secret and that she'll stop at nothing to reveal it. It's best if you go into the story not knowing much more than that, but it's worth the time and will keep you on the edge of your seat well into the night!
I was hoping for a bit of a different ending, but I still loved it just the same. I enjoyed the unhinged characters and the crazy climax. I read it in one sitting!
Thank you so much to the publishers at NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-ARC! I was sick with the flu when I read it, and this book gave me all of the excitement and thrills I wouldn't have otherwise experienced while I was stuck in bed. It is definitely a must-read thriller for 2026!
I was hoping for a bit of a different ending, but I still loved it just the same. I enjoyed the unhinged characters and the crazy climax. I read it in one sitting!
Thank you so much to the publishers at NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-ARC! I was sick with the flu when I read it, and this book gave me all of the excitement and thrills I wouldn't have otherwise experienced while I was stuck in bed. It is definitely a must-read thriller for 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Goodness gracious! The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day stole my breath and addled my brain in the best way. This is the thriller I craved at this moment, jam packed with delectably dark moments and gorgeous claustrophobia.
Mellie and her new husband Henry lived in a beautiful but exhausted house. The arrival of Pauline, Henry's mother, laid a thick pall of tension over Mellie. Pauline's recent stroke took her self and wrung it out, leaving a shell. But Mellie is terrified that somehow Pauline would still expose her secret from months earlier. Full-time care was needed so they hired a carer during the day but there were times Mellie was alone with Pauline. Henry remained loyal to his mother but would he remain loyal to his wife if the secret came out?
The snappy pace, easy-to-visualize characters, and waiting for the other shoe to drop nearly drove me nuts! Watching the two female characters try to claw out of their personal prisons kept my eyes peeled. Every. Minute.
Loved, loved, loved this novel!
Mellie and her new husband Henry lived in a beautiful but exhausted house. The arrival of Pauline, Henry's mother, laid a thick pall of tension over Mellie. Pauline's recent stroke took her self and wrung it out, leaving a shell. But Mellie is terrified that somehow Pauline would still expose her secret from months earlier. Full-time care was needed so they hired a carer during the day but there were times Mellie was alone with Pauline. Henry remained loyal to his mother but would he remain loyal to his wife if the secret came out?
The snappy pace, easy-to-visualize characters, and waiting for the other shoe to drop nearly drove me nuts! Watching the two female characters try to claw out of their personal prisons kept my eyes peeled. Every. Minute.
Loved, loved, loved this novel!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It isn’t the dream honeymoon that Mellie expected after marrying her dream husband, as they end up having to move in with her husband’s mother, Pauline, to care for her. Mellie is worried as she has been lying to her husband about who she really is. She knows that Pauline may know her secret and that evidence could be hidden in the attic. When trying to desperately keep her secret, she discovers Pauline may be hiding secrets too.
This sounded like a great premise and that it would be a fun, twisty read. This ended up being was an entertaining thriller and I loved the dark, chilling vibe the author managed to portray throughout the story. I enjoyed trying to work out where the story would go, discovering the secrets along the way and the characters were compelling, even if not that likeable. I did find that the pacing was a bit uneven and at times repetitive, however overall this was a well written, unsettling thriller and I would read more by this author. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
This sounded like a great premise and that it would be a fun, twisty read. This ended up being was an entertaining thriller and I loved the dark, chilling vibe the author managed to portray throughout the story. I enjoyed trying to work out where the story would go, discovering the secrets along the way and the characters were compelling, even if not that likeable. I did find that the pacing was a bit uneven and at times repetitive, however overall this was a well written, unsettling thriller and I would read more by this author. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
March 3, 2026
The Mother Upstairs by Rebecca Day is a gripping, emotionally layered domestic thriller that kept me turning the pages.
From the outset, there’s a strong sense of unease that quietly builds with each chapter. Day does an excellent job of creating tension through atmosphere rather than shock alone, and the slow reveal of secrets feels deliberate and satisfying. The dynamic at the heart of the story is compelling, exploring themes of trust, family loyalty, and the lengths we go to protect the people we love.
The pacing struck a good balance — simmering rather than frantic — which allowed the characters to feel fleshed out and believable. I especially appreciated the way the author drip-feeds information, keeping you questioning motives and second-guessing what you think you know. Just when I felt confident about where things were heading, another twist shifted the ground again.
A tense, twisty read that will appeal to fans of character-driven psychological suspense. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from Becca Day.
From the outset, there’s a strong sense of unease that quietly builds with each chapter. Day does an excellent job of creating tension through atmosphere rather than shock alone, and the slow reveal of secrets feels deliberate and satisfying. The dynamic at the heart of the story is compelling, exploring themes of trust, family loyalty, and the lengths we go to protect the people we love.
The pacing struck a good balance — simmering rather than frantic — which allowed the characters to feel fleshed out and believable. I especially appreciated the way the author drip-feeds information, keeping you questioning motives and second-guessing what you think you know. Just when I felt confident about where things were heading, another twist shifted the ground again.
A tense, twisty read that will appeal to fans of character-driven psychological suspense. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from Becca Day.
March 18, 2026
Wow! 😮 this one has very easily pushed its way to one of my top Becca Day books!! And I love them all,
This book has you gripped from the beginning, and on the edge of your seat for majority of the ride! Practically every chapter ends on a cliffhanger, then alternates with a dual timeline, then that chapter ends on a cliffhanger!! Keeping you turning the pages, dying to know what happened in both timelines!
There’s real depth to the protagonist Mellie who guards a big secret that her mother in law discovers at the very beginning and threatens to spill! As her childhood traumas begin to unravel, and Mellie becomes fearful that her secret is on the brink of exposure at the hands of her creepy mother in law with her watchful eyes 👀 her husband remains oblivious!
As the twists all start to unravel the ending has your jaw dropping!
THEN there’s the epilogue😱 with one final nail in the coffin!
I highly recommend this as a must read to all lovers of twisty thrillers, you won’t be disappointed.
This book has you gripped from the beginning, and on the edge of your seat for majority of the ride! Practically every chapter ends on a cliffhanger, then alternates with a dual timeline, then that chapter ends on a cliffhanger!! Keeping you turning the pages, dying to know what happened in both timelines!
There’s real depth to the protagonist Mellie who guards a big secret that her mother in law discovers at the very beginning and threatens to spill! As her childhood traumas begin to unravel, and Mellie becomes fearful that her secret is on the brink of exposure at the hands of her creepy mother in law with her watchful eyes 👀 her husband remains oblivious!
As the twists all start to unravel the ending has your jaw dropping!
THEN there’s the epilogue😱 with one final nail in the coffin!
I highly recommend this as a must read to all lovers of twisty thrillers, you won’t be disappointed.
February 1, 2026
I had the opportunity to arc read this and here are my thoughts:
I absolutely loved The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day and honestly couldn’t put it down. From the start, the story draws you in and keeps you completely hooked. The writing flows so smoothly and the pacing is spot on, making it one of those books where you constantly tell yourself you’ll stop after one more chapter and never do.
The twists and turns were so well done and genuinely caught me off guard. I especially loved the psychological side of the story, as it added so much tension and kept me questioning the characters and what was really going on the entire time. It was gripping without being confusing, which made it such an enjoyable read.
This is definitely a thriller I’d recommend to anyone wanting to get into the genre or looking for a fast-paced, addictive psychological read. Such a great book and one I’d happily recommend to others ❤️
I absolutely loved The Mother Upstairs by Becca Day and honestly couldn’t put it down. From the start, the story draws you in and keeps you completely hooked. The writing flows so smoothly and the pacing is spot on, making it one of those books where you constantly tell yourself you’ll stop after one more chapter and never do.
The twists and turns were so well done and genuinely caught me off guard. I especially loved the psychological side of the story, as it added so much tension and kept me questioning the characters and what was really going on the entire time. It was gripping without being confusing, which made it such an enjoyable read.
This is definitely a thriller I’d recommend to anyone wanting to get into the genre or looking for a fast-paced, addictive psychological read. Such a great book and one I’d happily recommend to others ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mellie has found the man of her dreams and is about to marry him. She cannot wait to jump into married life but there is only one issue, on the wedding day, Mellie’s future mother-in-law bursts into the bridal suite, a piece of paper clutched in her hand. ‘I know your secret,’ she says, a satisfied smile on her face. ‘And I will not let you marry my son.’
This story gripped me from the first chapter. Mellie was such a likeable character and I found myself routing for her throughout the book.
Becca Day did a great job in building a sense of tension. I loved the creepy moments.
Is Pauline really the mother-in-law from hell? Or is Mellie struggling to adjust to her new life?
To what length, would you go to keep your secrets?
I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the ending was so satisfying. I will be recommending it.
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
This story gripped me from the first chapter. Mellie was such a likeable character and I found myself routing for her throughout the book.
Becca Day did a great job in building a sense of tension. I loved the creepy moments.
Is Pauline really the mother-in-law from hell? Or is Mellie struggling to adjust to her new life?
To what length, would you go to keep your secrets?
I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the ending was so satisfying. I will be recommending it.
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the opportunity to read the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
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