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A Knock at the Door
Not yet published
Expected 5 Nov 26
They’ve finally got her back… but is it really her?
Little Tippi went missing eighteen years ago – her little face appearing on newspapers around the world, sparking endless debate and conspiracy theories.
Her parents have never given up hope she might come home, but when a young woman appears at their house in Peckham, claiming to be their missing daughter, no one would have predicted what happened next.
In her new novel, Sunday Times bestseller Louise Candlish takes readers on a white-knuckle ride of suspense and tension.
*****
Praise for Louise Candlish‘Not only is Candlish a terrific storyteller, she has the gift of making you care about unlikable characters’ Guardian
‘The queen of the urban thriller returns with her winning blend of whodunit and thoroughly unreliable narrators’ Red
'I'm blown away by how good it is. A gripping tale of love, secrets and deception – it's the best psychological thriller I've read in a long time' Mark Edwards
‘A twisting, seductive, ingenious thriller’ Chris Whitaker
‘Tense, provocative and devastatingly powerful’ T. M. Logan
‘Candlish is a master of her craft’ Adele Parks
‘I couldn’t put it down’ Shari Lapena
‘A compelling, nerve-tingling treat’ Nicci French
‘As good as I hoped it would be… loved it’ Jane Fallon
Louise Candlish's book 'A Neighbour’s Guide to Murder' was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2026-01-19.
Her parents have never given up hope she might come home, but when a young woman appears at their house in Peckham, claiming to be their missing daughter, no one would have predicted what happened next.
In her new novel, Sunday Times bestseller Louise Candlish takes readers on a white-knuckle ride of suspense and tension.
*****
Praise for Louise Candlish‘Not only is Candlish a terrific storyteller, she has the gift of making you care about unlikable characters’ Guardian
‘The queen of the urban thriller returns with her winning blend of whodunit and thoroughly unreliable narrators’ Red
'I'm blown away by how good it is. A gripping tale of love, secrets and deception – it's the best psychological thriller I've read in a long time' Mark Edwards
‘A twisting, seductive, ingenious thriller’ Chris Whitaker
‘Tense, provocative and devastatingly powerful’ T. M. Logan
‘Candlish is a master of her craft’ Adele Parks
‘I couldn’t put it down’ Shari Lapena
‘A compelling, nerve-tingling treat’ Nicci French
‘As good as I hoped it would be… loved it’ Jane Fallon
Louise Candlish's book 'A Neighbour’s Guide to Murder' was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2026-01-19.
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 5, 2026
About the author
Louise Candlish
42 books2,963 followersHello and welcome to my page... You may already know my domestic suspense novels or perhaps you're curious and not sure which to try first - either way, you're in the right place!
So...I'm the award-winning and internationally bestselling author of 18 novels. My latest release A Neighbour's Guide to Murder is a slow-burn psychological thriller about an age-gap friendship between neighbours that escalates to scandal and murder. Already an instant Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller in the UK, it publishes in the US and Canada on July 7.
My TV brand is getting pretty busy: following the smash-hit four-part adaptation of my thriller Our House for ITV (PBS or Amazon in the US), filming is underway on two more miniseries: a four-part ITV adaptation of The Only Suspect starring Kevin McKidd and a six-part Channel 5/Fox adaptation of The Heights starring Anna Friel. More books are in development.
I live in a South London neighbourhood not unlike the ones featured in my books, with my husband, daughter, and a fox-red Labrador called Bertie, who is the apple of my eye. Authors who inspire me include Tom Wolfe, Patricia Highsmith, Ruth Rendell/Barbara Vine and Agatha Christie. My favourite book is Madame Bovary.
Be the first to hear about new releases and price drops by clicking on the 'Follow' button or at:
Instagram: louisecandlish
FB: LouiseCandlishAuthor
X/Twitter: louise_candlish
So...I'm the award-winning and internationally bestselling author of 18 novels. My latest release A Neighbour's Guide to Murder is a slow-burn psychological thriller about an age-gap friendship between neighbours that escalates to scandal and murder. Already an instant Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller in the UK, it publishes in the US and Canada on July 7.
My TV brand is getting pretty busy: following the smash-hit four-part adaptation of my thriller Our House for ITV (PBS or Amazon in the US), filming is underway on two more miniseries: a four-part ITV adaptation of The Only Suspect starring Kevin McKidd and a six-part Channel 5/Fox adaptation of The Heights starring Anna Friel. More books are in development.
I live in a South London neighbourhood not unlike the ones featured in my books, with my husband, daughter, and a fox-red Labrador called Bertie, who is the apple of my eye. Authors who inspire me include Tom Wolfe, Patricia Highsmith, Ruth Rendell/Barbara Vine and Agatha Christie. My favourite book is Madame Bovary.
Be the first to hear about new releases and price drops by clicking on the 'Follow' button or at:
Instagram: louisecandlish
FB: LouiseCandlishAuthor
X/Twitter: louise_candlish
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A new Louise Candlish, whoop, whoop!
A knock at the door, after all these years, could it possibly be Tippi?
At the age of three, Tippi Macklin goes missing on a family holiday in Norfolk, her devastated parents Jed and Gabby never give up hope of their much loved daughter returning home.
Eighteen years later, university student Eden believes she might be Tippi and has some evidence to back it up. However, Gabby’s sister Bel is utterly convinced that Eden is an impostor. Well, in this day and age there’s one way to prove it conclusively. Will a DNA test support Eden or prove Bel’s suspicions correct? Only time will tell.
This is so, so good, I’m hooked by the unfolding drama which is so well told. Is she, isn’t she??? It’s a classic character driven psychological thriller which is gripping from first to last, holding my attention in a vice like grip. The dynamics are excellently conveyed between all parties concerned within both families. There’s plenty of tension, skepticism, optimism, mistrust, distrust, deception, panic and rewriting narratives. There’s a whole range of emotions and they’re palpable at times. It’s one of those reads where it seems characters are smooth or serene on the surface but there are so many undercurrents beneath. Ducks floating on water, but furious paddling beneath. I love that kind of book and as I’m reading it, I have no idea which way it will go.
The characterisation is exemplary, I could see them all clearly, many are likeable although there’s a teen who I could most certainly see all too clearly, with all the accompanying snark!! As it’s mostly from Bel’s perspective, she’s the strongest represented character and I feel and think everything she does. Though she does shock me at times! There are a message inserts in between the narrative which are intriguing and I THINK I know where they’re coming from! Wrong again, very well played. Well, I get played!
This is a very well written novel, the plot is carefully thought there’s tension and plenty of emotion. It’s dramatic yet believable. There are good twists as well as a satisfying ending.
Overall, this is a typical Louise Candlish novel, it’s gripping, suspenseful, addictive and hard to put down. Another best seller I’d say. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
A knock at the door, after all these years, could it possibly be Tippi?
At the age of three, Tippi Macklin goes missing on a family holiday in Norfolk, her devastated parents Jed and Gabby never give up hope of their much loved daughter returning home.
Eighteen years later, university student Eden believes she might be Tippi and has some evidence to back it up. However, Gabby’s sister Bel is utterly convinced that Eden is an impostor. Well, in this day and age there’s one way to prove it conclusively. Will a DNA test support Eden or prove Bel’s suspicions correct? Only time will tell.
This is so, so good, I’m hooked by the unfolding drama which is so well told. Is she, isn’t she??? It’s a classic character driven psychological thriller which is gripping from first to last, holding my attention in a vice like grip. The dynamics are excellently conveyed between all parties concerned within both families. There’s plenty of tension, skepticism, optimism, mistrust, distrust, deception, panic and rewriting narratives. There’s a whole range of emotions and they’re palpable at times. It’s one of those reads where it seems characters are smooth or serene on the surface but there are so many undercurrents beneath. Ducks floating on water, but furious paddling beneath. I love that kind of book and as I’m reading it, I have no idea which way it will go.
The characterisation is exemplary, I could see them all clearly, many are likeable although there’s a teen who I could most certainly see all too clearly, with all the accompanying snark!! As it’s mostly from Bel’s perspective, she’s the strongest represented character and I feel and think everything she does. Though she does shock me at times! There are a message inserts in between the narrative which are intriguing and I THINK I know where they’re coming from! Wrong again, very well played. Well, I get played!
This is a very well written novel, the plot is carefully thought there’s tension and plenty of emotion. It’s dramatic yet believable. There are good twists as well as a satisfying ending.
Overall, this is a typical Louise Candlish novel, it’s gripping, suspenseful, addictive and hard to put down. Another best seller I’d say. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to HQ for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Louise Candlish writes such fabulous thrillers doesn’t she!
I was thrilled to be approved for an early audiobook of A Knock at The Door, narrated by the incredible Nicola Walker. Wow, she did such a wonderful job, Her voice was perfect for Bel, the untrusting sister trying to be the voice of reason. I got completely lost in this story and couldn’t stop listening.
Families are complicated aren’t they? This family have suffered their share of tragedy when 3 year old Tippy went missing on holidays. 18 years later a knock at the door could change everything, only Bel is suspicious. Who is this Eden and what does she want?
This is a slow burn thriller that really does work. We get to know this family inside out and think we know everything until we don’t. When that happens it is perfect!! It was a wow moment that I certainly didn’t see coming.
Thank you so much to Harper Collins UK Audio for my early copy to listen to. Loved it. Out on November 5th. Highly recommend the audiobook.
I was thrilled to be approved for an early audiobook of A Knock at The Door, narrated by the incredible Nicola Walker. Wow, she did such a wonderful job, Her voice was perfect for Bel, the untrusting sister trying to be the voice of reason. I got completely lost in this story and couldn’t stop listening.
Families are complicated aren’t they? This family have suffered their share of tragedy when 3 year old Tippy went missing on holidays. 18 years later a knock at the door could change everything, only Bel is suspicious. Who is this Eden and what does she want?
This is a slow burn thriller that really does work. We get to know this family inside out and think we know everything until we don’t. When that happens it is perfect!! It was a wow moment that I certainly didn’t see coming.
Thank you so much to Harper Collins UK Audio for my early copy to listen to. Loved it. Out on November 5th. Highly recommend the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another intriguing and complex storyline from this author, which reveals itself in layers, with the final reveal neatly completing the circle and producing a very satisfying ending. I can't say too much without giving things away but as always, we get to meet a collection of flawed and very real characters, put in a number of difficult situations. I couldn't totally get on board with our main character, Bel, which marred things a little bit for me as I was reading because I wasn't sure I liked her very much! That's just me being picky though. This is another belting story from one of my favourite authors.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A new Louise Candlish book is always a treat - something to look forward to - afterall this is the author I said if published a shopping list I would read it
And once again the book is genius - we meet Bel - Sister of Gabby - Gabby and her hubby Jed's daughter Tippi went missing years ago - presumed drowned but no evidence was ever found of this......through the years media interest has been high and of course the same with social media - various young women have come forward to claim they think they are Tippi - none have passed the various tests to ensure it really is her - and then Eden appears - and Gabby is so so sure it is her - virulently sure - Bel however is not convinced - not at all…..and is on a mission to prove it....but things conspire to make this difficult - and then the drama really starts
A second woven in story relates to uni students (Grace,Bel's daughter) and the perils that can befall them - I wont say much on that other than it is very poignant and fed in really well to the main story - the Snapchat lingo is to behold!
The whole story is dynamite and so well written,I was unable not to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen next and how it would end - and endeth well and brilliantly it did
Got to be a TV adaption for sure
This book reaffirmed what I already knew that the author writes outstanding books - superb read
And once again the book is genius - we meet Bel - Sister of Gabby - Gabby and her hubby Jed's daughter Tippi went missing years ago - presumed drowned but no evidence was ever found of this......through the years media interest has been high and of course the same with social media - various young women have come forward to claim they think they are Tippi - none have passed the various tests to ensure it really is her - and then Eden appears - and Gabby is so so sure it is her - virulently sure - Bel however is not convinced - not at all…..and is on a mission to prove it....but things conspire to make this difficult - and then the drama really starts
A second woven in story relates to uni students (Grace,Bel's daughter) and the perils that can befall them - I wont say much on that other than it is very poignant and fed in really well to the main story - the Snapchat lingo is to behold!
The whole story is dynamite and so well written,I was unable not to keep turning the pages to see what was going to happen next and how it would end - and endeth well and brilliantly it did
Got to be a TV adaption for sure
This book reaffirmed what I already knew that the author writes outstanding books - superb read
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Louise Candlish is an author who knows exactly how to take an apparently straightforward premise and gradually make you question everything you think you know. A Knock at the Door is another excellent example of her talent for creating tense, twist-filled domestic suspense.
When three-year-old Tippi Macklin disappears during a family holiday, her disappearance becomes a national obsession. Eighteen years later, a young woman arrives at the Macklins' home claiming to be Tippi. She has evidence to support her extraordinary claim, but with so much time having passed, the obvious question remains: can she really be the daughter they lost?
What follows is a wonderfully unsettling exploration of family, identity, grief and the lengths people will go to in order to believe—or disbelieve—the truth.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its characters. Candlish doesn't give us a simple division between heroes and villains. Instead, she creates complicated, often deeply flawed people whose motivations are gradually revealed. The family relationships are particularly compelling, and the emotional tension feels just as important as the central mystery.
There is also a fascinating exploration of what happens when a tragedy becomes public property. Tippi's disappearance has been discussed, speculated about and scrutinised for years, raising questions about the media, public fascination with missing-person cases and the way strangers can become invested in somebody else's grief.
And then there are the twists. Candlish deliberately keeps you questioning what is real, who can be trusted and whether your assumptions are leading you in the right direction. Just when you think you've worked something out, the story has a way of making you reconsider.
The result is a gripping and cleverly constructed psychological thriller that combines an intriguing mystery with plenty of emotional depth. It takes a little time to establish its characters and situation, but once the central mystery gathers momentum, it becomes increasingly difficult to put down.
For fans of domestic thrillers, unreliable characters and stories that make you constantly rethink your theories, A Knock at the Door is a highly recommended read.
When three-year-old Tippi Macklin disappears during a family holiday, her disappearance becomes a national obsession. Eighteen years later, a young woman arrives at the Macklins' home claiming to be Tippi. She has evidence to support her extraordinary claim, but with so much time having passed, the obvious question remains: can she really be the daughter they lost?
What follows is a wonderfully unsettling exploration of family, identity, grief and the lengths people will go to in order to believe—or disbelieve—the truth.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its characters. Candlish doesn't give us a simple division between heroes and villains. Instead, she creates complicated, often deeply flawed people whose motivations are gradually revealed. The family relationships are particularly compelling, and the emotional tension feels just as important as the central mystery.
There is also a fascinating exploration of what happens when a tragedy becomes public property. Tippi's disappearance has been discussed, speculated about and scrutinised for years, raising questions about the media, public fascination with missing-person cases and the way strangers can become invested in somebody else's grief.
And then there are the twists. Candlish deliberately keeps you questioning what is real, who can be trusted and whether your assumptions are leading you in the right direction. Just when you think you've worked something out, the story has a way of making you reconsider.
The result is a gripping and cleverly constructed psychological thriller that combines an intriguing mystery with plenty of emotional depth. It takes a little time to establish its characters and situation, but once the central mystery gathers momentum, it becomes increasingly difficult to put down.
For fans of domestic thrillers, unreliable characters and stories that make you constantly rethink your theories, A Knock at the Door is a highly recommended read.
September 19, 2026
Another unputdownable read from Louise Candlish.
I raced through this so fast desperate to know whether Eden was an interloper or really the now grown missing little Tippi who disappeared when she was three years old. Parents Jed and Gabby have searched for fifteen painful years, supported by her sister and husband.
When Eden, a university student suggests she might be little Tippi there’s a connection that Jed and Gabby struggle to dismiss but not everyone is convinced. The twists in this story total blindside you and keep you turning those pages.
A fantastic read that I highly recommend.
I raced through this so fast desperate to know whether Eden was an interloper or really the now grown missing little Tippi who disappeared when she was three years old. Parents Jed and Gabby have searched for fifteen painful years, supported by her sister and husband.
When Eden, a university student suggests she might be little Tippi there’s a connection that Jed and Gabby struggle to dismiss but not everyone is convinced. The twists in this story total blindside you and keep you turning those pages.
A fantastic read that I highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When three-year-old Tippi Macklin vanishes during a weekend break with her parents, her face becomes front-page news across the globe, sparking years of public debate and wild conspiracy theories. Through it all, her wealthy, glamorous parents, Jed and Gabby, refuse to give up hope that ‘Little Tippi’ will eventually be found.
Eighteen years later, a young woman knocks on their front door claiming to be their long-lost daughter. She comes with a new name, a new past, and surprising evidence to back up her claim. But can she truly be Tippi after all this time, or is she a cunning imposter? A DNA test promises a definitive answer, but when the results come in, everyone involved realizes the mystery is far deeper and more complicated than they ever imagined.
While it took me a little while to fully get into the story at the very beginning, once the plot kicked in, I was completely hooked! Louise Candlish has crafted a genuinely gripping, cleverly written thriller that becomes almost impossible to put down as the mystery deepens. The characters are wonderfully well-developed and complex, making the family dynamics feel intense and unpredictable. The narrative is full of clever twists and turns that keep you second-guessing what is real and who is telling the truth right up to the end.
A Knock on the Door is a very good, highly absorbing thriller with fantastic characters and a wonderfully twisty plot. Once you get past the initial setup, it’s an addictive ride that fans of psychological suspense will thoroughly enjoy. A solid four stars!
I would like to thank both Netgalley and HQ for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Eighteen years later, a young woman knocks on their front door claiming to be their long-lost daughter. She comes with a new name, a new past, and surprising evidence to back up her claim. But can she truly be Tippi after all this time, or is she a cunning imposter? A DNA test promises a definitive answer, but when the results come in, everyone involved realizes the mystery is far deeper and more complicated than they ever imagined.
While it took me a little while to fully get into the story at the very beginning, once the plot kicked in, I was completely hooked! Louise Candlish has crafted a genuinely gripping, cleverly written thriller that becomes almost impossible to put down as the mystery deepens. The characters are wonderfully well-developed and complex, making the family dynamics feel intense and unpredictable. The narrative is full of clever twists and turns that keep you second-guessing what is real and who is telling the truth right up to the end.
A Knock on the Door is a very good, highly absorbing thriller with fantastic characters and a wonderfully twisty plot. Once you get past the initial setup, it’s an addictive ride that fans of psychological suspense will thoroughly enjoy. A solid four stars!
I would like to thank both Netgalley and HQ for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Eighteen years ago their three year old daughter went missing, now Gabby and Jed have been contacted by a girl who claims to be their daughter.
Gabby’s sister Bel is sure that this girl is an imposter.
A story about a family living in hope.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Gabby’s sister Bel is sure that this girl is an imposter.
A story about a family living in hope.
Thank you to NetGalley and HQ for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2026
I really enjoyed this one. A new author for me and I will be reading more from her backlist.
October 24, 2026
Gabby and Jed Macklin decide to go on a weekend break with their three-year-old daughter Tippi to Norfolk. But Tippi vanishes never to be seen again. The incident was on front page news and reached other parts of the world. But her wealthy parents never gave up the search for their daughter. Over the years they were many girls claiming to be her, but they all turned out to be imposters.
Eighteen years later, there is a knock on the door, and a woman called Eden Taylor arrives claiming to be Tippi with some evidence to back up her claim. Could this really be Tippi after all these years? They decide to do a DNA test, but the test comes back inconclusive. Is Eden Taylor really Tippi or another imposter? Gabby thinks so and she does all she can to find out the truth.
I always enjoy a Louise Candlish book, and I was so intrigued by this storyline. I found this to really hard to get into due to the many layers of this storyline. How the effects of a missing girl can not only affect the parents of the child but also everyone around them. This is not a thriller by any means but although a slow burn of a storyline it kept me reading to find out more about Tippi if she is a alive or dead. 3.5 stars from me.
Eighteen years later, there is a knock on the door, and a woman called Eden Taylor arrives claiming to be Tippi with some evidence to back up her claim. Could this really be Tippi after all these years? They decide to do a DNA test, but the test comes back inconclusive. Is Eden Taylor really Tippi or another imposter? Gabby thinks so and she does all she can to find out the truth.
I always enjoy a Louise Candlish book, and I was so intrigued by this storyline. I found this to really hard to get into due to the many layers of this storyline. How the effects of a missing girl can not only affect the parents of the child but also everyone around them. This is not a thriller by any means but although a slow burn of a storyline it kept me reading to find out more about Tippi if she is a alive or dead. 3.5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was so stoked to be approved for an ARC of Louise Candlish's latest book in audio format, especially after finding out that Nicola Walker is the primary narrator.
The author's latest psychological thriller does not disappoint. As always, Candlish weaves a web of lies and deceit and, with a collection of flawed characters, the reader is easily drawn in. I went into it blind and I don't like to give too much away. I will just say that this is such a fantastic story and very well written and I was well and truly hooked. Read/listen to this book!
The narration was on point and I finished it in just over a day.
A big thank you to HQ Stories and NetGalley for an ARC. Publication date is 5/11/26
The author's latest psychological thriller does not disappoint. As always, Candlish weaves a web of lies and deceit and, with a collection of flawed characters, the reader is easily drawn in. I went into it blind and I don't like to give too much away. I will just say that this is such a fantastic story and very well written and I was well and truly hooked. Read/listen to this book!
The narration was on point and I finished it in just over a day.
A big thank you to HQ Stories and NetGalley for an ARC. Publication date is 5/11/26
October 19, 2026
YES!!! This is how to do it!!! I loved this so much and spent the whole time grinning insanely.
The Knock At The Door has jumped up to my favourite read by the author and one of my favs of the year. The characters were all written well, I was changing my mind on them all throughout, especially Bel! Awful woman.
I especially loved that this had so many stories running along the main one, which really made for an addictive thrilling read.
All the stars and is a must read for thriller lovers or those wanting to delve into the genre.
The Knock At The Door has jumped up to my favourite read by the author and one of my favs of the year. The characters were all written well, I was changing my mind on them all throughout, especially Bel! Awful woman.
I especially loved that this had so many stories running along the main one, which really made for an addictive thrilling read.
All the stars and is a must read for thriller lovers or those wanting to delve into the genre.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review to Come
October 24, 2026
This was one of the better books I’ve read from this author really liked it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Louise Candlish returns with another gripping psychological thriller, built around a premise that is impossible to resist. When three-year-old Tippi Macklin disappears during a family holiday, her case becomes a media sensation, spawning endless speculation, conspiracy theories and heartbreak. Eighteen years later, a young woman arrives claiming to be the missing child. Armed with a new identity, a complicated past and evidence that appears convincing, she forces everyone around her to ask the same question: is she really Tippi, or is she an imposter?
From the very first pages, the author expertly taps into the emotional and psychological fallout of a child disappearance. While the mystery of the young woman's identity forms the novel's central question, the story is equally concerned with the impact of loss, hope and grief on those left behind. How would parents react if the child they mourned suddenly returned? What happens when long-buried memories, secrets and suspicions are forced back into the light?
The premise is utterly intriguing, and Louise Candlish knows exactly how to keep readers turning the pages. Every new revelation raises fresh questions, making it difficult to know who to trust or quite what to believe. The tension is sustained throughout, with surprises waiting around many corners and enough twists to keep even seasoned thriller readers guessing.
The characterisation is particularly strong. Each character feels authentic and fully realised, and the relationships between family members ring true, especially as old wounds and hidden truths begin to surface. The emotional complexity of their reactions adds real weight to the mystery, ensuring that the novel never relies solely on plot alone.
The plotting is sublime, carefully constructed so that clues, revelations and red herrings are delivered at exactly the right moments. Louise Candlish demonstrates once again why she is such a reliable storyteller, balancing suspense with emotional depth and creating a narrative that feels both intelligent and immensely readable.
A Knock at the Door is a compelling, thought-provoking psychological thriller that explores identity, family and the enduring consequences of loss. With excellent characterisation, believable relationships and a brilliantly executed mystery at its heart, this is another highly addictive read from Louise Candlish.Louise CandlishA Knock at the Door
From the very first pages, the author expertly taps into the emotional and psychological fallout of a child disappearance. While the mystery of the young woman's identity forms the novel's central question, the story is equally concerned with the impact of loss, hope and grief on those left behind. How would parents react if the child they mourned suddenly returned? What happens when long-buried memories, secrets and suspicions are forced back into the light?
The premise is utterly intriguing, and Louise Candlish knows exactly how to keep readers turning the pages. Every new revelation raises fresh questions, making it difficult to know who to trust or quite what to believe. The tension is sustained throughout, with surprises waiting around many corners and enough twists to keep even seasoned thriller readers guessing.
The characterisation is particularly strong. Each character feels authentic and fully realised, and the relationships between family members ring true, especially as old wounds and hidden truths begin to surface. The emotional complexity of their reactions adds real weight to the mystery, ensuring that the novel never relies solely on plot alone.
The plotting is sublime, carefully constructed so that clues, revelations and red herrings are delivered at exactly the right moments. Louise Candlish demonstrates once again why she is such a reliable storyteller, balancing suspense with emotional depth and creating a narrative that feels both intelligent and immensely readable.
A Knock at the Door is a compelling, thought-provoking psychological thriller that explores identity, family and the enduring consequences of loss. With excellent characterisation, believable relationships and a brilliantly executed mystery at its heart, this is another highly addictive read from Louise Candlish.Louise CandlishA Knock at the Door
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Capital Crime book 2: A Knock At the Door by Louise Candlish (AD:PR Gifted with thanks to HQ for their tombola at Capital Crime)
Thrilled but not surprised that Louise Candlish has done it again - and by “it” I mean given us a cast of characters I’d hate to know in real life but who fascinated me in this utterly compelling novel, due out in November.
The Macklins (Jed and Gabby) are a wealthy couple whose toddler daughter Tippi goes missing from a Norfolk hotel the same year as Madeleine McCann disappears. Candlish has obviously taken inspiration for the set up from this true crime, and pays the McCanns the respect of mentioning them as a comparison several times in the novel, lest anyone wrongly imagine there is any subtext about their real-world tragedy in the story. There isn’t. Jed and Gabby and their extended families are entirely imagined.
The novel is told from the perspective of Gabby’s sister, Bel, a Food Standards Officer who has supported Gabby and Jed throughout their two decade ordeal, while also bringing up her two daughters, Grace and Luna, with long-suffering and utterly stable husband, Marc.
Bel’s at Gabby and Jed’s mansion when the eponymous knock at the door comes, and turns out to be the latest young woman who claims she might be Tippi. Bel has a strong visceral reaction that Eden Taylor is not her niece but she increasingly finds herself in a minority of one as first Jed, then Gabby, then the rest of the family dare to believe that Eden is Tippi …
But, as the hook on the back of the ARC says in capital letters, “IS IT REALLY HER?”
I’m saying no more for fear of spoilers. Suffice it to say that this is as brilliant as Louise Candlish’s other books. Cue a reminder that for me 4-star and 5-star novels are just as objectively high quality, with the extra fifth star being entirely subjective, meaning that for reasons of my own a book has become an instant favourite. (In this case, my time spent teaching at a posh university like Grace’s probably made me a bit biased against her and her parents 🤷🏻♀️)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Grab an ARC if you can or count the days till November publication day!
Thrilled but not surprised that Louise Candlish has done it again - and by “it” I mean given us a cast of characters I’d hate to know in real life but who fascinated me in this utterly compelling novel, due out in November.
The Macklins (Jed and Gabby) are a wealthy couple whose toddler daughter Tippi goes missing from a Norfolk hotel the same year as Madeleine McCann disappears. Candlish has obviously taken inspiration for the set up from this true crime, and pays the McCanns the respect of mentioning them as a comparison several times in the novel, lest anyone wrongly imagine there is any subtext about their real-world tragedy in the story. There isn’t. Jed and Gabby and their extended families are entirely imagined.
The novel is told from the perspective of Gabby’s sister, Bel, a Food Standards Officer who has supported Gabby and Jed throughout their two decade ordeal, while also bringing up her two daughters, Grace and Luna, with long-suffering and utterly stable husband, Marc.
Bel’s at Gabby and Jed’s mansion when the eponymous knock at the door comes, and turns out to be the latest young woman who claims she might be Tippi. Bel has a strong visceral reaction that Eden Taylor is not her niece but she increasingly finds herself in a minority of one as first Jed, then Gabby, then the rest of the family dare to believe that Eden is Tippi …
But, as the hook on the back of the ARC says in capital letters, “IS IT REALLY HER?”
I’m saying no more for fear of spoilers. Suffice it to say that this is as brilliant as Louise Candlish’s other books. Cue a reminder that for me 4-star and 5-star novels are just as objectively high quality, with the extra fifth star being entirely subjective, meaning that for reasons of my own a book has become an instant favourite. (In this case, my time spent teaching at a posh university like Grace’s probably made me a bit biased against her and her parents 🤷🏻♀️)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Grab an ARC if you can or count the days till November publication day!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and HQ for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
This is a boo that needs to be read fresh, so I won't go into too much detail because I don't want to give anything away.
Shockingly, whilst I own another of her books, I've only read one of Louise's books before this, which seems mad considering I would now think of her as a go-to thriller author.
This had me hooked from page one, I was immediately addicted.
Sadly this is a timely topic, children going missing. Luckily most are found and returned quickly but sadly there are too many that aren't found. So it felt very familiar. And coming up to 20 years since Madeleine disappeared, it felt very timely and all the more poignant.
Luckily I have never been, and hope never to be, in the situation of losing a child, so I cannot say how realistic it was, but it definitely felt like it.
It's well paced, totally gripping and addictive, and I couldn't bear to put it down until I'd found out - was she Tippi or not?
Let me just say that the following is not a negative, even though it might read like it. But these kind of books, these thrillers, they have the build up, setting everything up, something happens, we then make our decisions before it all comes out in the end. But by about 20% of the way through it felt like we'd already got to the bit where I'd made my decision and wanted to know the outcome. So I was worried about how she'd keep it going for another few hundred pages, but boy did she! It's very impressive. I still wasn't sure I believed the outcome of the tests and whatnot (I won't spoil what they say), so I was eager to see how it would end and if I would be right.
I got a little confused at times because whilst it's mostly present prose, there are flashbacks, social media posts, and emails. So it took me a while to figure out, but that might have been the formatting in my e-arc. But the content was so enjoyable that it didn't really matter.
I read it in a day it was so addictive. I have another of her books that I'll definitely be moving up my tbr list.
This is a boo that needs to be read fresh, so I won't go into too much detail because I don't want to give anything away.
Shockingly, whilst I own another of her books, I've only read one of Louise's books before this, which seems mad considering I would now think of her as a go-to thriller author.
This had me hooked from page one, I was immediately addicted.
Sadly this is a timely topic, children going missing. Luckily most are found and returned quickly but sadly there are too many that aren't found. So it felt very familiar. And coming up to 20 years since Madeleine disappeared, it felt very timely and all the more poignant.
Luckily I have never been, and hope never to be, in the situation of losing a child, so I cannot say how realistic it was, but it definitely felt like it.
It's well paced, totally gripping and addictive, and I couldn't bear to put it down until I'd found out - was she Tippi or not?
Let me just say that the following is not a negative, even though it might read like it. But these kind of books, these thrillers, they have the build up, setting everything up, something happens, we then make our decisions before it all comes out in the end. But by about 20% of the way through it felt like we'd already got to the bit where I'd made my decision and wanted to know the outcome. So I was worried about how she'd keep it going for another few hundred pages, but boy did she! It's very impressive. I still wasn't sure I believed the outcome of the tests and whatnot (I won't spoil what they say), so I was eager to see how it would end and if I would be right.
I got a little confused at times because whilst it's mostly present prose, there are flashbacks, social media posts, and emails. So it took me a while to figure out, but that might have been the formatting in my e-arc. But the content was so enjoyable that it didn't really matter.
I read it in a day it was so addictive. I have another of her books that I'll definitely be moving up my tbr list.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a missing person mystery- a 3 year old child disappears on holiday in Norfolk and is not seen for 18 years, leaving parents and close family members bereft.
Suddenly a girl appears on Gabby and Jed’s doorstep claiming to be missing Tippi but is she really.? Gabby and Jed are convinced it’s their long lost daughter but Gabby’s sister, Bel, believes that Eden is an imposter looking for money. The story is mainly told from Bel’s point of view with several sections from the Facebook “Tippi is missing” page and also some messages from the messaging service telegram which are difficult to fathom as a part of the story- all is finally revealed later in the book.
Certainly this disappearance bears many similarities to the Madeline McCann case which happened at the same time and I would imagine that the author gained some of her inspiration from this- it is even mentioned in the book on several occasions .
At times it seemed slightly voyeuristic to be reading about a parallel mythical case when the real one has never been solved.
Of course Bel believes that DNA tests will prove that Eden is not a member of the family but the shocking outcome of the result is hard to believe and has repercussions for everyone involved.
This is not only the story of a disappearance but also an examination of family relationships which reach breaking point in the difficult circumstances they are all in.
There are many twists and turns as the novel progresses and it was definitely one of those I couldn’t put down. I felt sorry for all the main characters who had lived their lives in the shadow of Tippi being missing. Even Luna, Bel’s younger daughter who never met Tippi, has been affected by this traumatic event.
I definitely recommend “A Knock At The Door” as a five-star psychological mystery that would keep readers entertained and enthralled.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
Suddenly a girl appears on Gabby and Jed’s doorstep claiming to be missing Tippi but is she really.? Gabby and Jed are convinced it’s their long lost daughter but Gabby’s sister, Bel, believes that Eden is an imposter looking for money. The story is mainly told from Bel’s point of view with several sections from the Facebook “Tippi is missing” page and also some messages from the messaging service telegram which are difficult to fathom as a part of the story- all is finally revealed later in the book.
Certainly this disappearance bears many similarities to the Madeline McCann case which happened at the same time and I would imagine that the author gained some of her inspiration from this- it is even mentioned in the book on several occasions .
At times it seemed slightly voyeuristic to be reading about a parallel mythical case when the real one has never been solved.
Of course Bel believes that DNA tests will prove that Eden is not a member of the family but the shocking outcome of the result is hard to believe and has repercussions for everyone involved.
This is not only the story of a disappearance but also an examination of family relationships which reach breaking point in the difficult circumstances they are all in.
There are many twists and turns as the novel progresses and it was definitely one of those I couldn’t put down. I felt sorry for all the main characters who had lived their lives in the shadow of Tippi being missing. Even Luna, Bel’s younger daughter who never met Tippi, has been affected by this traumatic event.
I definitely recommend “A Knock At The Door” as a five-star psychological mystery that would keep readers entertained and enthralled.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Louise Candlish has become an auto-buy author for me, so you can imagine my excitement when I received an advanced copy of her new novel from @netgalley, which turned out to be a propulsive, nerve-jangling, psychological thriller.
When Tippi Macklin disappears in 2007 from a hotel in Norfolk, aged three, her parents, Jed and Gabby, never give up hope that someday she will return. Eighteen years later, Eden comes into their lives claiming to be their long lost daughter. Jed and Gabby are happy to believe that she is, but Gabby’s sister Bel , is skeptical….
As always, Louise Candlish does an excellent job with the mystery, drama and tension, and the story moves at a compelling pace leaving you eager for more. Part family drama, part
psychological suspense, it delves into the world of sibling rivalry, family relationships and the ramifications of a missing child on the extended family. Interspersed with social media posts and discussion forums, we get to see at close range the effects of press intrusion, and of time-wasters, and the anguish they cause.
The characters are really what made this book for me, they are so fully developed and true-to-life, adding depth and richness. The story is told by Bel, who is resolute in her search for the truth, constantly challenging her sister, and someone I could totally empathise with.
The prose is elegant and engaging, beautifully crafted and impossible to put down. I couldn’t help but draw parallels with the Madeleine McCann case, and it made me think how I would react in the same situation.
This was a 5 star read for me and I can’t recommend it highly enough. A must read.
A huge thank you to @netgalley and @hq for the ARC.
When Tippi Macklin disappears in 2007 from a hotel in Norfolk, aged three, her parents, Jed and Gabby, never give up hope that someday she will return. Eighteen years later, Eden comes into their lives claiming to be their long lost daughter. Jed and Gabby are happy to believe that she is, but Gabby’s sister Bel , is skeptical….
As always, Louise Candlish does an excellent job with the mystery, drama and tension, and the story moves at a compelling pace leaving you eager for more. Part family drama, part
psychological suspense, it delves into the world of sibling rivalry, family relationships and the ramifications of a missing child on the extended family. Interspersed with social media posts and discussion forums, we get to see at close range the effects of press intrusion, and of time-wasters, and the anguish they cause.
The characters are really what made this book for me, they are so fully developed and true-to-life, adding depth and richness. The story is told by Bel, who is resolute in her search for the truth, constantly challenging her sister, and someone I could totally empathise with.
The prose is elegant and engaging, beautifully crafted and impossible to put down. I couldn’t help but draw parallels with the Madeleine McCann case, and it made me think how I would react in the same situation.
This was a 5 star read for me and I can’t recommend it highly enough. A must read.
A huge thank you to @netgalley and @hq for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Little Tippi went missing decades ago, sparking national interest, with plenty of conspiracy theories. Her parents have never given up hope that Tippi will return, but with plenty of false sightings, hopes are dashed again and again. But when another young woman claims to be their missing daughter, they get a feeling this one may be different, but no one could have predicted what came next.
I love a Louise Candlish thriller, so was so excited to get my hands on this one, especially with the intriguing synopsis and bold cover. As I’ve come to expect, this was another great read by this author and ended up being a fascinating, twisty tale right to the end. The author did a great job creating believable, compelling characters, whose emotions and turmoil really jumped off the page and felt relatable. The author also managed to evoke doubt and suspicion well, where I never knew what or who to trust.
The story felt a bit slower paced than some of her other novels, however I liked that there was a slow building tension and a depth to the story. It was fun watching it all come together, doing so in a clever way, with some good twists. I also enjoyed that the story was told like a real life news case, enjoying the thoughts of the public within the main storyline. For me personally, there were some relatable references, which made these extra enjoyable to discover.
This was another fantastic story by this author overall and perfect for those looking for a compelling, multi layered, character driven mystery. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
I love a Louise Candlish thriller, so was so excited to get my hands on this one, especially with the intriguing synopsis and bold cover. As I’ve come to expect, this was another great read by this author and ended up being a fascinating, twisty tale right to the end. The author did a great job creating believable, compelling characters, whose emotions and turmoil really jumped off the page and felt relatable. The author also managed to evoke doubt and suspicion well, where I never knew what or who to trust.
The story felt a bit slower paced than some of her other novels, however I liked that there was a slow building tension and a depth to the story. It was fun watching it all come together, doing so in a clever way, with some good twists. I also enjoyed that the story was told like a real life news case, enjoying the thoughts of the public within the main storyline. For me personally, there were some relatable references, which made these extra enjoyable to discover.
This was another fantastic story by this author overall and perfect for those looking for a compelling, multi layered, character driven mystery. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Three-year-old Tippi Macklin disappeared 18 years ago, and her parents, Gabby and Jed, have never given up hope that she might be found unharmed. Hounded by the media for all this time, and with many potential sightings turning out to be false leads, suddenly a 21-year-old arrives at the door. And Gabby and Jed are sure she’s Tippi.
This was just so captivating and amazingly well written. I felt everything as if it was a true story, imagining how the family would feel and how awful it would be to live with the horror of your child being gone.
The story is told from the point of view of Gabby’s sister, Bel, which worked so perfectly as someone deeply affected by everything but always slightly on the outside. Particularly with the discrepancy between how rich and otherwise care-free the Macklins were compared to Bel’s family and their financial struggles.
The way Bel tells the story looking back into the past, with her benefits of hindsight that we’re not yet privy to, created such a loaded suspense. It constantly felt like something (or several things!) were very wrong.
And then there were the Facebook community posts, adding to that claustrophobic feeling that the Macklins were constantly being scrutinised and having to respond to messages and possible sightings, and the mysterious Telegram messages!
My only possible complaints are that I did sometimes get Gabby and Grace confused because… perimenopause brain! 😂🤪 and I was upset when it ended! It was such a WOW ending that I felt like I wanted a little bit more of an epilogue! Maybe that would’ve spoilt it, I don’t know, but I wasn’t ready for it to end!
This was just so captivating and amazingly well written. I felt everything as if it was a true story, imagining how the family would feel and how awful it would be to live with the horror of your child being gone.
The story is told from the point of view of Gabby’s sister, Bel, which worked so perfectly as someone deeply affected by everything but always slightly on the outside. Particularly with the discrepancy between how rich and otherwise care-free the Macklins were compared to Bel’s family and their financial struggles.
The way Bel tells the story looking back into the past, with her benefits of hindsight that we’re not yet privy to, created such a loaded suspense. It constantly felt like something (or several things!) were very wrong.
And then there were the Facebook community posts, adding to that claustrophobic feeling that the Macklins were constantly being scrutinised and having to respond to messages and possible sightings, and the mysterious Telegram messages!
My only possible complaints are that I did sometimes get Gabby and Grace confused because… perimenopause brain! 😂🤪 and I was upset when it ended! It was such a WOW ending that I felt like I wanted a little bit more of an epilogue! Maybe that would’ve spoilt it, I don’t know, but I wasn’t ready for it to end!
October 6, 2026
They’ve finally got her back… but is it really her? Little Tippi went missing eighteen years ago – her little face appearing on newspapers around the world, sparking endless debate and conspiracy theories. Her parents have never given up hope she might come home, but when a young woman appears at their house in Peckham, claiming to be their missing daughter, no one would have predicted what happened next.
I was extremely excited to have picked up a proof copy of this title at Capital Crime in the summer, I always enjoy Louise’s writing and this sounded like another intriguing read - and I wasn’t disappointed!
I always admire how Louise can balance the intrigue, tension and suspense perfectly throughout her books and this title had me utterly engrossed from the off. Told through the POV of main character Bel, the story introduces us to her family and her sister Gabby, whose little girl Tippi is still missing 18 years later. With flashbacks back to when Tippi disappeared, the scene is set for the reader and it’s evident the impact the arrival of Eden has on the family.
I did figure out one of the main twists about halfway through but I couldn’t have expected some of the additional reveals along the way. I did feel there should have maybe been a longer epilogue but also appreciate the way the story concluded and to not want to take away from that.
The way that current societal issues are also interweaved into the story is very clever and relevant, I for one learned stuff about practices I didn’t even realise happened so that was eye opening! As always it was one that I didn’t want to put down and inhaled every single word in just two sittings, highly recommend!
I was extremely excited to have picked up a proof copy of this title at Capital Crime in the summer, I always enjoy Louise’s writing and this sounded like another intriguing read - and I wasn’t disappointed!
I always admire how Louise can balance the intrigue, tension and suspense perfectly throughout her books and this title had me utterly engrossed from the off. Told through the POV of main character Bel, the story introduces us to her family and her sister Gabby, whose little girl Tippi is still missing 18 years later. With flashbacks back to when Tippi disappeared, the scene is set for the reader and it’s evident the impact the arrival of Eden has on the family.
I did figure out one of the main twists about halfway through but I couldn’t have expected some of the additional reveals along the way. I did feel there should have maybe been a longer epilogue but also appreciate the way the story concluded and to not want to take away from that.
The way that current societal issues are also interweaved into the story is very clever and relevant, I for one learned stuff about practices I didn’t even realise happened so that was eye opening! As always it was one that I didn’t want to put down and inhaled every single word in just two sittings, highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have absolutely loved all of the author’s novels and she is one of my go to authors, so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read A Knock at the Door.
18 years ago three year old Tippi Macklin disappeared from a Norfolk hotel. Since that day her parents Gabby and Jed have never given up on hoping for her return, so when 22 year old Eden contacts them, Gabby is convinced that she is their missing daughter. Gabby’s sister Bel has supported her over the years whilst constantly acknowledging how hard it must be for Gabby to see her nieces grow up. Bel is not convinced that Eden is Tippi and is determined to prove that she is a fraudster.
Wow ! Louise Candlish has written another fantastic and compelling novel and I raced through it over the course of 24 hours. Candlish writes so well, the plot, the pacing and the characterisation are all excellent and I was completely drawn into Bel’s narrative. The relationships between Bel and Gabby and Bel and her daughters Grace and Luna are so insightfully portrayed and Candlish is particularly skilled at portraying both middle aged women and the younger generation. The twists and the direction the narrative takes were unexpected and I did not want this to end. Another 5 star read from the author that I would highly recommend.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was immediately intrigued by the premise of A Knock at the Door. The idea of a young woman turning up eighteen years after a little girl disappears, claiming to be the missing child, is such a compelling setup.
It is quite a slow burn, though, and I struggled with the pacing at times. Things didn't really pick up for me until around the 70% mark, although I do think the slower pace helps to build the tension, and I found myself increasingly desperate to see where the story was going. There were some good twists and turns along the way, although none that completely wowed me.
I struggled a little with Bel as the main character. There was just something about her that I didn't particularly warm to, although I did have sympathy for her as she tried to navigate raising two young adults. I think I would have enjoyed having another character's perspective alongside hers to give the story a bit more variety. The characters are generally well written, although I would have liked to see more exploration of Jed in particular.
Overall, this is much more of a character-driven story than an action-packed thriller, so it's worth bearing that in mind going in. While the slow pace didn't always work for me, the premise kept me reading and I was invested enough to want to find out how it all unfolded.
It is quite a slow burn, though, and I struggled with the pacing at times. Things didn't really pick up for me until around the 70% mark, although I do think the slower pace helps to build the tension, and I found myself increasingly desperate to see where the story was going. There were some good twists and turns along the way, although none that completely wowed me.
I struggled a little with Bel as the main character. There was just something about her that I didn't particularly warm to, although I did have sympathy for her as she tried to navigate raising two young adults. I think I would have enjoyed having another character's perspective alongside hers to give the story a bit more variety. The characters are generally well written, although I would have liked to see more exploration of Jed in particular.
Overall, this is much more of a character-driven story than an action-packed thriller, so it's worth bearing that in mind going in. While the slow pace didn't always work for me, the premise kept me reading and I was invested enough to want to find out how it all unfolded.
October 26, 2026
Another fabulous thriller from the author Louise Candlish, featuring great characters who have dark secrets, many of which will be exposed.
Losing a small child is every family’s worst nightmare scenario and when young Tippi goes missing at a holiday location around the same time as (true crime reference ) Madeline McCann, her story is in all the papers. Over time her memory is kept alive by her parents in an online forum and many people claim to be her or have seen her. When out of the blue a young woman who looks plausible as Tippi presents herself as a 21-year-old woman she receives mixed feelings from the family.
The story is so well woven with the disappearance, drama in the present day with Tippi’s cousins and the online forum comments that it is difficult to see who is telling the truth. Even the appearance of a positive dna sample is not enough for all members of the family and further drama is exposed, together with an unexpected member of the family finding themselves involved in a major crime.
Great writing and suspense maintained and built in throughout the book, the author manages to keep the interest and crank up the tension as each page turns.
Highly entertaining and one I would have no hesitation to recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Losing a small child is every family’s worst nightmare scenario and when young Tippi goes missing at a holiday location around the same time as (true crime reference ) Madeline McCann, her story is in all the papers. Over time her memory is kept alive by her parents in an online forum and many people claim to be her or have seen her. When out of the blue a young woman who looks plausible as Tippi presents herself as a 21-year-old woman she receives mixed feelings from the family.
The story is so well woven with the disappearance, drama in the present day with Tippi’s cousins and the online forum comments that it is difficult to see who is telling the truth. Even the appearance of a positive dna sample is not enough for all members of the family and further drama is exposed, together with an unexpected member of the family finding themselves involved in a major crime.
Great writing and suspense maintained and built in throughout the book, the author manages to keep the interest and crank up the tension as each page turns.
Highly entertaining and one I would have no hesitation to recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Fiendishly clever from Candlish!
Several hours after finishing the book, I was still pondering some of the complexities.
It's essentially a story about sibling bonds, secrets and guilt. Jed and Gabby's three year old daughter Tippi disappeared while they were on a Norfolk holiday 18 years ago. Since then, Gabby's sister Bel has felt guilty that she has two daughters and escaped unscathed. Or does she? She and her husband are very hard up compared to her glamorous sister and her infuriating candle making hobby.
Gabby and Bel had always been close, with Bel often letting herself into Gabby's home. but when a woman professing to be Tippi takes over Gabby's life, they argue.
I felt sorry for Bel's second daughter Luna, firstly for her name, which led to horrific nicknames like Lunes and Looney Tunes, and secondly because she was jealous of her elder goody two shoes sister, Grace. I wondered why Bel seemed to favour the elder sister.
Lots of our expectations are dashed in numerous clever twists. I wasn't expecting the final development but it was the icing on the cake. Another contemporary, intelligent read from Louise Candlish, one of the few writers who seems to understand Gen Z.
Several hours after finishing the book, I was still pondering some of the complexities.
It's essentially a story about sibling bonds, secrets and guilt. Jed and Gabby's three year old daughter Tippi disappeared while they were on a Norfolk holiday 18 years ago. Since then, Gabby's sister Bel has felt guilty that she has two daughters and escaped unscathed. Or does she? She and her husband are very hard up compared to her glamorous sister and her infuriating candle making hobby.
Gabby and Bel had always been close, with Bel often letting herself into Gabby's home. but when a woman professing to be Tippi takes over Gabby's life, they argue.
I felt sorry for Bel's second daughter Luna, firstly for her name, which led to horrific nicknames like Lunes and Looney Tunes, and secondly because she was jealous of her elder goody two shoes sister, Grace. I wondered why Bel seemed to favour the elder sister.
Lots of our expectations are dashed in numerous clever twists. I wasn't expecting the final development but it was the icing on the cake. Another contemporary, intelligent read from Louise Candlish, one of the few writers who seems to understand Gen Z.
September 21, 2026
Another great book from this author. Jed and Gabby had a daughter called Tippi who disappeared when she was three from a hotel in Norfolk. Jed, Gabby, Gabby’s sister, Bel, and Bel husband who were on holiday together and the trauma continued for years. Tippi would be close to her 21st birthday. The Police, media and social media are still involved and on anniversaries the drama replays itself. 18 years on and a university student gets in touch with Jed and Gabby convinced she is their long lost daughter now called Eden.. Gabby is convinced that she is Tippi as she can “feel it in her bones”. However, Bel is not convinced at all and decides to play detective as she does not want her sister’s hopes to spiral. DNA tests are eventually done and more suspicions arise. No spoilers here. The books weaves in and out, one minute I am sure she is Tippi and the next I am not altogether sure but as a character Eden proves to be a lovely girl. As this is happening Bel’s family are in crisis and there is too much to handle for both families and divides happen. I really loved all the characters and took to the book immediately. It flowed and reached an ending which was surprising but I guess apt for the book. High recommendation from me
September 16, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley.
A Knock At The Door is a beautifully layered and intricate thriller exploring loss, betrayal and family.
The novel revolves around the disappearance of ‘Little Tippi’, a child who vanished from a family holiday eighteen years ago. The questions surrounding her disappearance — was she taken? Did she have an accident? Is a third party involved? — run throughout the narrative, alongside the distress and yearning of Tippi’s family.
The emotional aspects of the story are particularly well judged. I really enjoyed the inclusion of blog posts and the exploration of the way members of the public can develop a sense of ‘ownership’ over high-profile cases. The psychological implications for those directly involved are always present and treated with sensitivity.
The characters are excellent. Candlish avoids presenting human nature as simply ‘good’ or ‘bad’, instead showing how people can be flawed and contradictory, even when their intentions are good.
Thrilling and emotive to the end, A Knock At The Door is an affecting exploration of grief, loss and the lasting consequences of a disappearance.
A Knock At The Door is a beautifully layered and intricate thriller exploring loss, betrayal and family.
The novel revolves around the disappearance of ‘Little Tippi’, a child who vanished from a family holiday eighteen years ago. The questions surrounding her disappearance — was she taken? Did she have an accident? Is a third party involved? — run throughout the narrative, alongside the distress and yearning of Tippi’s family.
The emotional aspects of the story are particularly well judged. I really enjoyed the inclusion of blog posts and the exploration of the way members of the public can develop a sense of ‘ownership’ over high-profile cases. The psychological implications for those directly involved are always present and treated with sensitivity.
The characters are excellent. Candlish avoids presenting human nature as simply ‘good’ or ‘bad’, instead showing how people can be flawed and contradictory, even when their intentions are good.
Thrilling and emotive to the end, A Knock At The Door is an affecting exploration of grief, loss and the lasting consequences of a disappearance.
October 24, 2026
Gabby and Jed have it all - a prosperous life with all the trimmings and luxuries or so you think. Their daughter Tippi goes missing when they are away for the weekend at a seaside resort. A nationwide search is conducted for her but alas no Tippi is found. They are absolutely devastated but learn to go on with the hope that she is eventually found. Despite setting up a Facebook group and all the false leads that ensue, Tippi is never found. Years later, a young lady knocks on their door believing she is Tippi. Gabby is over the moon and wants to believe it is all true.
Gabby's sister Bel is married with two girls of her own and is immediately suspicious of this girl and encourages them to get a DNA test done to confirm the girl's claim. When the results come back there is shock and suspicion all around. Is this really Tippi or is it a con-woman?
This was a good read that kept me interested from the beginning. I've read another of Louise Candlish's books before and enjoyed it so was keen to read this new one. A well paced mystery novel where truth and lies and suspicion are all involved with the ending one I didn't see coming.
Thank you to HQ Insiders and Harper Collins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
Gabby's sister Bel is married with two girls of her own and is immediately suspicious of this girl and encourages them to get a DNA test done to confirm the girl's claim. When the results come back there is shock and suspicion all around. Is this really Tippi or is it a con-woman?
This was a good read that kept me interested from the beginning. I've read another of Louise Candlish's books before and enjoyed it so was keen to read this new one. A well paced mystery novel where truth and lies and suspicion are all involved with the ending one I didn't see coming.
Thank you to HQ Insiders and Harper Collins for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this audio book, the narrators were so good and the voices suited the story.
Gabby and Jed’s 3 year old daughter went missing while they were on holiday, now 18 years later a young girl Eden has turned up at their door claiming to be her. This has happened before and Eden will be subject to a DNA test. As the couple wait the 10 days for the results, they both have decided that Eden is in fact Tippy, their missing daughter. The story is narrated by Gabbys sister Bel, whom is sure the girl is a hoax and goes out of her way to prove it. But when the DNA comes back as a match Bel cannot believe what has happened. Bel and Gabby are close, although Bel and her husband and two teenage daughters are struggling financially, Gabby and Jed are very wealthy. Bels refusal to believe that the long lost daughter has been found causes problems for everyone, but the truth is a whole lot more involved than you would think.
This author always writes great stories and this is no exception.
#AKnockAtTheDoor. #NetGalley
Gabby and Jed’s 3 year old daughter went missing while they were on holiday, now 18 years later a young girl Eden has turned up at their door claiming to be her. This has happened before and Eden will be subject to a DNA test. As the couple wait the 10 days for the results, they both have decided that Eden is in fact Tippy, their missing daughter. The story is narrated by Gabbys sister Bel, whom is sure the girl is a hoax and goes out of her way to prove it. But when the DNA comes back as a match Bel cannot believe what has happened. Bel and Gabby are close, although Bel and her husband and two teenage daughters are struggling financially, Gabby and Jed are very wealthy. Bels refusal to believe that the long lost daughter has been found causes problems for everyone, but the truth is a whole lot more involved than you would think.
This author always writes great stories and this is no exception.
#AKnockAtTheDoor. #NetGalley
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