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The Stepmother
Not yet published
Expected 24 Sep 26'Had more twists than a corkscrew there was always another twist or piece of action that kept my attention. A truly fantastic book!... I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, holding my breath until the nail-biting finale. A must read for psychological thriller fans!' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Talk about a whirlwind of a plot! It's fast-paced and most definitely thrilling... A twisty, twisty tale that just rolls with the punches! As it unfolded I was almost inhaling the book!... Fabulous read!!' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It is a day like any other when Sarah arrives at the school gate to pick up her two stepchildren, Izzy and Patrick.
But when the twins don't run out to meet her like normal, Sarah knows something must be wrong.
Sarah can't believe what she's hearing when the teacher informs her that their father, Mike, removed them from school earlier in the day. All of Sarah's calls to Mike go to voicemail.
Worse is to come when Sarah is told by police that as she and Mike are not legally married, and he is the children's father, there is nothing they or Sarah can do.
Then she receives a text message from Don't go home. It's not safe.
What has Mike been hiding? Where are their children? How can Sarah get her family back? Before it's too late...
Everyone is gripped by The Stepmother:
'The tension builds brilliantly, and the action never lets up, which kept me completely hooked from start to finish... The twists were genuinely unexpected' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Gripping psychological thriller with strong emotional depth and plenty of suspense... Fantastic' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'An action-packed plot... Gripping is an understatement... The kind of book you start, then barely put down until you reach the shocking and unexpected conclusion. A fabulous psychological thriller that fully deserves five stars' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Talk about a whirlwind of a plot! It's fast-paced and most definitely thrilling... A twisty, twisty tale that just rolls with the punches! As it unfolded I was almost inhaling the book!... Fabulous read!!' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It is a day like any other when Sarah arrives at the school gate to pick up her two stepchildren, Izzy and Patrick.
But when the twins don't run out to meet her like normal, Sarah knows something must be wrong.
Sarah can't believe what she's hearing when the teacher informs her that their father, Mike, removed them from school earlier in the day. All of Sarah's calls to Mike go to voicemail.
Worse is to come when Sarah is told by police that as she and Mike are not legally married, and he is the children's father, there is nothing they or Sarah can do.
Then she receives a text message from Don't go home. It's not safe.
What has Mike been hiding? Where are their children? How can Sarah get her family back? Before it's too late...
Everyone is gripped by The Stepmother:
'The tension builds brilliantly, and the action never lets up, which kept me completely hooked from start to finish... The twists were genuinely unexpected' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Gripping psychological thriller with strong emotional depth and plenty of suspense... Fantastic' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'An action-packed plot... Gripping is an understatement... The kind of book you start, then barely put down until you reach the shocking and unexpected conclusion. A fabulous psychological thriller that fully deserves five stars' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 24, 2026
About the author
Sheila Bugler
31 books115 followersI'm the author of the Ellen Kelly and Dee Doran crime novels. My first stand alone novel, The Lucky Eight, is published in July 2021.
I grew up in a small town in the west of Ireland. After studying Psychology at University College Galway, I left Ireland and worked in Italy, Spain, Germany, Holland, Argentina and London before finally settling in Eastbourne, where I now live with my husband, Sean, and our two children.
I grew up in a small town in the west of Ireland. After studying Psychology at University College Galway, I left Ireland and worked in Italy, Spain, Germany, Holland, Argentina and London before finally settling in Eastbourne, where I now live with my husband, Sean, and our two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 17, 2026
Some gripping moments. I enjoyed the fact that for once, the stepmother isn’t a crazy witch who wants to get rid of the kids.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Some thrillers slowly build tension. This one threw me straight into panic from the very first pages.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sheila Bugler, and Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The prologue alone was enough to hook me completely. A terrified pregnant woman quietly planning her escape from an abusive and controlling partner while carefully monitoring every expression, movement, and word she says instantly created this suffocating atmosphere of fear. What made it even more unsettling was the psychological control woven into every interaction.
And before I had even recovered from that tension, Chapter One completely shifted direction.
Sarah is living what seems like a normal life — school runs, work deadlines, family routines. Then she arrives to pick up her twins from school and discovers they’re gone. Mike, her partner, picked them up early after telling the school that Sarah had been in a terrible accident. Then Sarah receives the text: Don’t go home. It’s too dangerous.
That was the exact moment this book fully grabbed me. What I loved most was how the story turned something so ordinary into something terrifying. Sarah’s panic never felt exaggerated or overly dramatic; it felt painfully believable. I especially appreciated how she initially tries to rationalise everything before the fear truly sinks in. You can feel her world slowly beginning to unravel, chapter by chapter.
The pacing was incredibly addictive. Every chapter ended with another revelation, suspicious interaction, or unsettling discovery that made it impossible to stop reading. What made the story even stronger was the constant uncertainty surrounding the characters. I trusted Sarah because her reactions felt emotionally authentic, but almost everyone else made me suspicious at some point. Mike’s presence hangs over the entire story even when he’s absent, creating this constant sense of unease.
Paloma added another interesting layer of tension because even during supportive moments, I was never fully convinced of her intentions. Every time I thought I finally understood what was happening, the story shifted again.
I also liked how the novel explored Sarah’s vulnerability beyond simply fearing for her children. The fact that she and Mike aren’t legally married becomes deeply important once things begin spiralling, forcing Sarah to realise how fragile her position really is.
The atmosphere throughout the novel felt claustrophobic, paranoid, and emotionally intense. Even moments that should have felt comforting carried an underlying sense of danger. The twists genuinely worked for me, too. A lot of thrillers begin strongly and then collapse under ridiculous late-game reveals, but this one stayed emotionally grounded while still delivering shocking turns. The story becomes far darker and more layered than it first appears, moving beyond a missing-children mystery into something involving manipulation, trauma, hidden crimes, and buried secrets.
I also appreciated that the ending didn’t feel rushed or unrealistically neat. It acknowledged the emotional aftermath while still giving a satisfying conclusion.
If I had one small criticism, it’s that at times, absolutely everyone felt suspicious to the point where I was side-eyeing every character who breathed. But honestly, that paranoia also made the reading experience more fun because I genuinely never knew who to trust.
My Perspective:
This was one of those psychological thrillers that completely consumes your attention while reading it. Tense, addictive, emotionally charged, and impossible to put down. If you enjoy domestic thrillers filled with unreliable characters, escalating tension, emotional stakes, and twists that constantly make you question everything, I’d absolutely recommend this one.☝️
Thank you to NetGalley, Sheila Bugler, and Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The prologue alone was enough to hook me completely. A terrified pregnant woman quietly planning her escape from an abusive and controlling partner while carefully monitoring every expression, movement, and word she says instantly created this suffocating atmosphere of fear. What made it even more unsettling was the psychological control woven into every interaction.
And before I had even recovered from that tension, Chapter One completely shifted direction.
Sarah is living what seems like a normal life — school runs, work deadlines, family routines. Then she arrives to pick up her twins from school and discovers they’re gone. Mike, her partner, picked them up early after telling the school that Sarah had been in a terrible accident. Then Sarah receives the text: Don’t go home. It’s too dangerous.
That was the exact moment this book fully grabbed me. What I loved most was how the story turned something so ordinary into something terrifying. Sarah’s panic never felt exaggerated or overly dramatic; it felt painfully believable. I especially appreciated how she initially tries to rationalise everything before the fear truly sinks in. You can feel her world slowly beginning to unravel, chapter by chapter.
The pacing was incredibly addictive. Every chapter ended with another revelation, suspicious interaction, or unsettling discovery that made it impossible to stop reading. What made the story even stronger was the constant uncertainty surrounding the characters. I trusted Sarah because her reactions felt emotionally authentic, but almost everyone else made me suspicious at some point. Mike’s presence hangs over the entire story even when he’s absent, creating this constant sense of unease.
Paloma added another interesting layer of tension because even during supportive moments, I was never fully convinced of her intentions. Every time I thought I finally understood what was happening, the story shifted again.
I also liked how the novel explored Sarah’s vulnerability beyond simply fearing for her children. The fact that she and Mike aren’t legally married becomes deeply important once things begin spiralling, forcing Sarah to realise how fragile her position really is.
The atmosphere throughout the novel felt claustrophobic, paranoid, and emotionally intense. Even moments that should have felt comforting carried an underlying sense of danger. The twists genuinely worked for me, too. A lot of thrillers begin strongly and then collapse under ridiculous late-game reveals, but this one stayed emotionally grounded while still delivering shocking turns. The story becomes far darker and more layered than it first appears, moving beyond a missing-children mystery into something involving manipulation, trauma, hidden crimes, and buried secrets.
I also appreciated that the ending didn’t feel rushed or unrealistically neat. It acknowledged the emotional aftermath while still giving a satisfying conclusion.
If I had one small criticism, it’s that at times, absolutely everyone felt suspicious to the point where I was side-eyeing every character who breathed. But honestly, that paranoia also made the reading experience more fun because I genuinely never knew who to trust.
My Perspective:
This was one of those psychological thrillers that completely consumes your attention while reading it. Tense, addictive, emotionally charged, and impossible to put down. If you enjoy domestic thrillers filled with unreliable characters, escalating tension, emotional stakes, and twists that constantly make you question everything, I’d absolutely recommend this one.☝️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Some books ease you in gently. This one grabbed me by the collar in the prologue and said, You're not sleeping tonight. And it was absolutely right.
The story opens with a woman trapped in an abusive, controlling relationship. She’s terrified, newly pregnant, and planning her escape. The tension is immediate, and I was invested before Chapter 1 even began.
Then Chapter 1 shifts to what appears to be a normal day. Sarah is heading out to pick up the kids from school. Her husband Mike is acting a little strange, and she can’t find the car keys. No big deal… except Mike rarely takes the car. When Sarah arrives at school, the kids are gone. Mike picked them up early after telling the school Sarah had been in a terrible accident. Then Sarah receives a text from him: Don’t go home. It’s too dangerous.
And just like that, . From that moment on, I was completely hooked.
What I loved most about this book was the constant uncertainty. Nothing and no one was what they seemed. Every time I thought I had things figured out, something shifted. The pacing was tight, the suspense kept building, and I genuinely didn’t know who to trust.
I trusted Sarah, the stepmother, throughout the entire book. Her reactions felt authentic and grounded, even when her secrets started to surface. I understood why she made the choices she did, which made the emotional stakes even higher.
But everyone else? Suspicious. All of them. Paloma, the helpful friend who sometimes acted ... unexpectedly. Mike, the children’s father. Surely I should trust him ... right? Sarah’s brother, believed dead for twenty years, suddenly reappearing. Helpful? Maybe. Maybe not. Alasdair, the kind, wealthy businessman looking to buy Mike’s company and eager to help. Or is he? Then the children’s godmother, who I absolutely did not trust, is murdered, Sarah becomes the police’s number one suspect, and the entire time I’m thinking:
What the Fuzzy Kitty? There will be no sleep tonight.
This book made me feel tense, suspicious, and completely invested. I kept reading “just one more chapter” and ended up staying up far too late. By the time I finished, I had a full-blown book hangover, which is always the sign of a great psychological thriller. Thank heavens I don't have any responsibilities tomorrow.
The plot itself was twisty and layered, with strong pacing and well-timed reveals. I especially appreciated that the twists felt earned rather than forced. And the ending delivered. It was satisfying, including outside-the-system justice, and best of all, no loose ends.
If I had one small critique, it’s that the sheer number of suspicious characters occasionally made me second-guess everyone at once, but honestly, that also added to the tension and kept me turning pages. So even that worked in the book’s favor.
Content warnings include themes of domestic abuse, controlling relationships, and violence, which may be difficult for some readers.
This is a top-tier psychological thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy twisty plots, unreliable characters, and high emotional stakes. If you like stories where you trust no one and question everything, this one is absolutely worth picking up. Five stars, no question. I am already recommending it.
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for providing this advanced copy for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The story opens with a woman trapped in an abusive, controlling relationship. She’s terrified, newly pregnant, and planning her escape. The tension is immediate, and I was invested before Chapter 1 even began.
Then Chapter 1 shifts to what appears to be a normal day. Sarah is heading out to pick up the kids from school. Her husband Mike is acting a little strange, and she can’t find the car keys. No big deal… except Mike rarely takes the car. When Sarah arrives at school, the kids are gone. Mike picked them up early after telling the school Sarah had been in a terrible accident. Then Sarah receives a text from him: Don’t go home. It’s too dangerous.
And just like that, . From that moment on, I was completely hooked.
What I loved most about this book was the constant uncertainty. Nothing and no one was what they seemed. Every time I thought I had things figured out, something shifted. The pacing was tight, the suspense kept building, and I genuinely didn’t know who to trust.
I trusted Sarah, the stepmother, throughout the entire book. Her reactions felt authentic and grounded, even when her secrets started to surface. I understood why she made the choices she did, which made the emotional stakes even higher.
But everyone else? Suspicious. All of them. Paloma, the helpful friend who sometimes acted ... unexpectedly. Mike, the children’s father. Surely I should trust him ... right? Sarah’s brother, believed dead for twenty years, suddenly reappearing. Helpful? Maybe. Maybe not. Alasdair, the kind, wealthy businessman looking to buy Mike’s company and eager to help. Or is he? Then the children’s godmother, who I absolutely did not trust, is murdered, Sarah becomes the police’s number one suspect, and the entire time I’m thinking:
What the Fuzzy Kitty? There will be no sleep tonight.
This book made me feel tense, suspicious, and completely invested. I kept reading “just one more chapter” and ended up staying up far too late. By the time I finished, I had a full-blown book hangover, which is always the sign of a great psychological thriller. Thank heavens I don't have any responsibilities tomorrow.
The plot itself was twisty and layered, with strong pacing and well-timed reveals. I especially appreciated that the twists felt earned rather than forced. And the ending delivered. It was satisfying, including outside-the-system justice, and best of all, no loose ends.
If I had one small critique, it’s that the sheer number of suspicious characters occasionally made me second-guess everyone at once, but honestly, that also added to the tension and kept me turning pages. So even that worked in the book’s favor.
Content warnings include themes of domestic abuse, controlling relationships, and violence, which may be difficult for some readers.
This is a top-tier psychological thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy twisty plots, unreliable characters, and high emotional stakes. If you like stories where you trust no one and question everything, this one is absolutely worth picking up. Five stars, no question. I am already recommending it.
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for providing this advanced copy for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This story immediately pulled me in with a situation that feels disturbingly ordinary—until it isn’t. What struck me most is how cleverly the narrative transforms a routine moment into a spiraling nightmare. A school pickup, something so mundane and familiar, becomes the point of rupture, and from there, the tension never really loosens its grip.
From my perspective as a reader, I found myself deeply aligned with Sarah. There’s something profoundly unsettling about her position—not just because the children are missing, but because of how quickly her role in their lives is rendered fragile and almost invisible. That detail—that she is not legally married to Mike—hit particularly hard. It introduces a layer of helplessness that goes beyond emotional panic; it becomes institutional. You can feel her desperation intensify not only because she fears for the children, but because she realizes she may not even have the right to fight for them.
The pacing of the story, at least from what this premise promises, feels sharp and anxiety-driven. Each revelation escalates the stakes: first the absence of the children, then Mike’s silence, then the legal dead-end, and finally that chilling message—“Don’t go home. It’s not safe.” That last line, for me, is where the story truly shifts from a domestic thriller into something darker and more psychologically complex. It suggests that the danger isn’t just external; it’s embedded within the life Sarah thought she knew.
What I personally appreciate is how the story seems to play with trust and perception. Mike’s character becomes a haunting presence—absent, yet central. The question isn’t just where is he? but who is he? That sense of betrayal, of living beside someone whose secrets could unravel everything, is something that lingers with me as a reader. It taps into a very real fear: that the people closest to us might be the ones we understand the least.
Emotionally, I imagine this story would be exhausting in the best way. It’s the kind of narrative that keeps your mind racing, constantly trying to piece together clues while also feeling the protagonist’s panic. I find stories like this particularly compelling because they don’t rely solely on action—they thrive on uncertainty, on the slow, suffocating realization that something is deeply wrong.
If I were to reflect critically, I would say the success of the story will ultimately depend on how it resolves these tensions. A premise this strong creates very high expectations. The mystery around Mike, the children’s disappearance, and the ominous warning all demand a payoff that is both surprising and emotionally satisfying. As a reader, I would want the resolution to not only explain the events but also justify the intense psychological buildup.
Overall, from my point of view, this story feels like a gripping domestic thriller that explores vulnerability, legality, trust, and fear in a very intimate way. It’s the kind of narrative that would keep me turning pages late into the night—not just to find out what happens, but to understand how everything that seemed normal could unravel so completely.
From my perspective as a reader, I found myself deeply aligned with Sarah. There’s something profoundly unsettling about her position—not just because the children are missing, but because of how quickly her role in their lives is rendered fragile and almost invisible. That detail—that she is not legally married to Mike—hit particularly hard. It introduces a layer of helplessness that goes beyond emotional panic; it becomes institutional. You can feel her desperation intensify not only because she fears for the children, but because she realizes she may not even have the right to fight for them.
The pacing of the story, at least from what this premise promises, feels sharp and anxiety-driven. Each revelation escalates the stakes: first the absence of the children, then Mike’s silence, then the legal dead-end, and finally that chilling message—“Don’t go home. It’s not safe.” That last line, for me, is where the story truly shifts from a domestic thriller into something darker and more psychologically complex. It suggests that the danger isn’t just external; it’s embedded within the life Sarah thought she knew.
What I personally appreciate is how the story seems to play with trust and perception. Mike’s character becomes a haunting presence—absent, yet central. The question isn’t just where is he? but who is he? That sense of betrayal, of living beside someone whose secrets could unravel everything, is something that lingers with me as a reader. It taps into a very real fear: that the people closest to us might be the ones we understand the least.
Emotionally, I imagine this story would be exhausting in the best way. It’s the kind of narrative that keeps your mind racing, constantly trying to piece together clues while also feeling the protagonist’s panic. I find stories like this particularly compelling because they don’t rely solely on action—they thrive on uncertainty, on the slow, suffocating realization that something is deeply wrong.
If I were to reflect critically, I would say the success of the story will ultimately depend on how it resolves these tensions. A premise this strong creates very high expectations. The mystery around Mike, the children’s disappearance, and the ominous warning all demand a payoff that is both surprising and emotionally satisfying. As a reader, I would want the resolution to not only explain the events but also justify the intense psychological buildup.
Overall, from my point of view, this story feels like a gripping domestic thriller that explores vulnerability, legality, trust, and fear in a very intimate way. It’s the kind of narrative that would keep me turning pages late into the night—not just to find out what happens, but to understand how everything that seemed normal could unravel so completely.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It seems like just another day when Sarah arrives at the school gate to collect her two stepchildren, Izzy and Patrick. But when the twins don’t run out to meet her like normal, Sarah knows something is wrong. She cannot believe what she is hearing when the teacher informs her that their father, Mike, removed them from school earlier in the day. All her calls to him go to voicemail and when she reports them missing, as she has no legal responsibility for the children, there is nothing they nor Sarah can do. She is deflated. Surely Mike hasn’t left her? But then a text message from Mike appears: Don’t go home. It’s not safe.
What has Mike been hiding? Where are their children? As the number of crimes start mounting, can Sarah get her family back before it’s too late?
A strong prologue and the book just continues to get better! The book focuses on Sarah as the main narrator who is really likeable and well developed by SB. Despite us finding out she has told lies about her past, she does seem a reliable, authentic narrator. During her emotional panic, we can sense her desperation and helplessness as well as the legality of Sarah’s relationship with children she has raised as her own. This was a heartbreaking realisation to read.
The involvement of unexpected people from Sarah and Mike’s past was really well done and made the book feel even more claustrophobic! I didn’t know who to trust as thrillers have me doubting everyone! As more clues come to light, it is clear which direction the story is going, but it doesn’t ruin it. The intense build up at towards the ending was so exciting and satisfying!
A fast paced, dark story with a great plot, short chapters, misdirection, paranoia, betrayal and past secrets that bubble to the surface. This is my first read of SB’s work and I would highly recommend this story for those who enjoy psychological thriller with a domestic element.
*TW - discussion of domestic violence throughout the book*
Thank you to NetGallery, Hodder and Stoughton and Sheila Bugler for the ARC of this book!
What has Mike been hiding? Where are their children? As the number of crimes start mounting, can Sarah get her family back before it’s too late?
A strong prologue and the book just continues to get better! The book focuses on Sarah as the main narrator who is really likeable and well developed by SB. Despite us finding out she has told lies about her past, she does seem a reliable, authentic narrator. During her emotional panic, we can sense her desperation and helplessness as well as the legality of Sarah’s relationship with children she has raised as her own. This was a heartbreaking realisation to read.
The involvement of unexpected people from Sarah and Mike’s past was really well done and made the book feel even more claustrophobic! I didn’t know who to trust as thrillers have me doubting everyone! As more clues come to light, it is clear which direction the story is going, but it doesn’t ruin it. The intense build up at towards the ending was so exciting and satisfying!
A fast paced, dark story with a great plot, short chapters, misdirection, paranoia, betrayal and past secrets that bubble to the surface. This is my first read of SB’s work and I would highly recommend this story for those who enjoy psychological thriller with a domestic element.
*TW - discussion of domestic violence throughout the book*
Thank you to NetGallery, Hodder and Stoughton and Sheila Bugler for the ARC of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
- 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓢𝓽𝓮𝓹𝓶𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 [ꜱʜᴇɪʟᴀ ʙᴜɢʟᴇʀ]
Rating: ★★★★
author; @sheilabuglerauthor
My first ARC of 2026 from @netgalley — and what an absolute read! 🤯
This story follows Sarah, who goes to collect her twins from school only to discover they aren’t there. What starts as a normal school pick-up quickly turns into every parent’s worst nightmare, and from that moment the tension never lets up.
This book had me hooked right from the prologue. I devoured it within 24 hours, which honestly doesn’t happen to me very often. It’s been such a long time since I’ve read one that completely pulled me in and refused to let go.
The plot was incredibly well done and the pacing kept me turning the pages constantly. The twists and turns had me questioning absolutely everyone. I didn’t trust a single character except Sarah and even then I found myself wondering if there was more going on. I love a thriller that keeps you guessing, and this one absolutely delivered.
I kept telling myself “just one more chapter,” but before I knew it I had finished the book in two sittings because I had to know what was going to happen next. The suspense, the mystery, and the constant sense that something wasn’t quite right made this such an addictive read.
This was my first time reading anything by this author, and it definitely won’t be my last. I loved everything about this book - the plot, the tension, and the way it kept me completely invested in the story from beginning to end.
If you love psychological thrillers that keep you guessing and make you question everyone, this is definitely one to pick up.
🖤 psychological thriller
🖤 trust no-one
🖤 domestic abuse
🖤 hidden secrets
🖤 murder
🖤 estranged siblings
🖤 violence
🖤 revealed truths
🏷️ #bookstagram #homelibrary #booklover #bookshelves bookworm
Rating: ★★★★
author; @sheilabuglerauthor
My first ARC of 2026 from @netgalley — and what an absolute read! 🤯
This story follows Sarah, who goes to collect her twins from school only to discover they aren’t there. What starts as a normal school pick-up quickly turns into every parent’s worst nightmare, and from that moment the tension never lets up.
This book had me hooked right from the prologue. I devoured it within 24 hours, which honestly doesn’t happen to me very often. It’s been such a long time since I’ve read one that completely pulled me in and refused to let go.
The plot was incredibly well done and the pacing kept me turning the pages constantly. The twists and turns had me questioning absolutely everyone. I didn’t trust a single character except Sarah and even then I found myself wondering if there was more going on. I love a thriller that keeps you guessing, and this one absolutely delivered.
I kept telling myself “just one more chapter,” but before I knew it I had finished the book in two sittings because I had to know what was going to happen next. The suspense, the mystery, and the constant sense that something wasn’t quite right made this such an addictive read.
This was my first time reading anything by this author, and it definitely won’t be my last. I loved everything about this book - the plot, the tension, and the way it kept me completely invested in the story from beginning to end.
If you love psychological thrillers that keep you guessing and make you question everyone, this is definitely one to pick up.
🖤 psychological thriller
🖤 trust no-one
🖤 domestic abuse
🖤 hidden secrets
🖤 murder
🖤 estranged siblings
🖤 violence
🖤 revealed truths
🏷️ #bookstagram #homelibrary #booklover #bookshelves bookworm
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Stepmother hooked me from its opening moment of quiet, everyday normality—the kind that feels safe right up until it isn’t. Sarah arriving at the school gates, expecting the familiar rush of Izzy and Patrick into her arms, only to be met with an empty space and a teacher’s uneasy expression… it’s such a simple scene, but it lands with a thud of dread that never quite lets up.
What follows is a tense, spiralling unravelling of a family built on love, trust, and the fragile hope that blended lives can knit together seamlessly. Sarah’s panic feels so raw and immediate, especially as she realises how little power she has in the eyes of the law. The way the ground shifts beneath her—one moment she’s a mother in every way that matters, the next she’s told she has no rights at all—gives the story a sharp emotional edge.
Mike’s disappearance, the unanswered calls, and then that chilling text—Don’t go home. It’s not safe.—turn the novel into a breathless race for answers. I loved how the tension builds not through shock tactics but through the slow, creeping sense that Sarah has been living alongside secrets she never even thought to question. Every revelation feels like a door opening into a darker room.
The pacing is tight, the atmosphere claustrophobic in the best way, and Sarah’s determination to protect the children—despite every obstacle thrown at her—makes her incredibly easy to root for. There’s a real emotional heartbeat beneath the twists, a reminder of how vulnerable love can make us and how fiercely we fight for the people we claim as our own.
Gripping, unsettling, and surprisingly tender in its quieter moments, The Stepmother is the kind of domestic thriller that keeps you reading long after you meant to stop, driven by equal parts fear and hope.
With thanks to Shelia Bugler, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
What follows is a tense, spiralling unravelling of a family built on love, trust, and the fragile hope that blended lives can knit together seamlessly. Sarah’s panic feels so raw and immediate, especially as she realises how little power she has in the eyes of the law. The way the ground shifts beneath her—one moment she’s a mother in every way that matters, the next she’s told she has no rights at all—gives the story a sharp emotional edge.
Mike’s disappearance, the unanswered calls, and then that chilling text—Don’t go home. It’s not safe.—turn the novel into a breathless race for answers. I loved how the tension builds not through shock tactics but through the slow, creeping sense that Sarah has been living alongside secrets she never even thought to question. Every revelation feels like a door opening into a darker room.
The pacing is tight, the atmosphere claustrophobic in the best way, and Sarah’s determination to protect the children—despite every obstacle thrown at her—makes her incredibly easy to root for. There’s a real emotional heartbeat beneath the twists, a reminder of how vulnerable love can make us and how fiercely we fight for the people we claim as our own.
Gripping, unsettling, and surprisingly tender in its quieter moments, The Stepmother is the kind of domestic thriller that keeps you reading long after you meant to stop, driven by equal parts fear and hope.
With thanks to Shelia Bugler, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC!
Everyone has secrets. Some get you killed, others pull you into their mysteries until you find yourself digging for the truth so you can survive. Sarah has a secret, and during the course of the book, she finds out everyone around her has secrets of their own. But those secrets become dangerous when it involves the lives of her step-children.
The book shows us what makes a mother a mom, and to what ends she can go to find and protect her children. No matter who says otherwise, Sarah is a mother who will do anything she can to solve the mystery of her partner's disappearance together with his children.
Everyone in the book acts like their own person, driven by their will and secrets. Some react negatively, others hold on tight to what keeps them human, others make choices based on what they think is right. Sometimes, there is no right or wrong when it comes to decisions, just who is more desperate about making it.
Sarah is a distraught mother and partner, and fighting all odds to find her family, even if that means digging all the secrets her family has hidden. While at times I found her a bit gullible and distant when it comes to some matters, she fights tooth and nail for her loved ones.
The thriller aspect became a whirlwind after the bad guys revealed themselves, and you felt like you had to finish one more page until you find out what exactly is going to happen. I finished the book in a day just to make sure my hypothesis was correct, which was a bit predictable, but still entertaining.
Everyone has secrets. Some get you killed, others pull you into their mysteries until you find yourself digging for the truth so you can survive. Sarah has a secret, and during the course of the book, she finds out everyone around her has secrets of their own. But those secrets become dangerous when it involves the lives of her step-children.
The book shows us what makes a mother a mom, and to what ends she can go to find and protect her children. No matter who says otherwise, Sarah is a mother who will do anything she can to solve the mystery of her partner's disappearance together with his children.
Everyone in the book acts like their own person, driven by their will and secrets. Some react negatively, others hold on tight to what keeps them human, others make choices based on what they think is right. Sometimes, there is no right or wrong when it comes to decisions, just who is more desperate about making it.
Sarah is a distraught mother and partner, and fighting all odds to find her family, even if that means digging all the secrets her family has hidden. While at times I found her a bit gullible and distant when it comes to some matters, she fights tooth and nail for her loved ones.
The thriller aspect became a whirlwind after the bad guys revealed themselves, and you felt like you had to finish one more page until you find out what exactly is going to happen. I finished the book in a day just to make sure my hypothesis was correct, which was a bit predictable, but still entertaining.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Book Review: The Stepmother by Sheila Bugler
Pub Date: 24 September 2026
The Stepmother is a gripping, emotionally charged thriller that hooks you from the very first page and refuses to let go.
What starts as an ordinary school pickup quickly spirals into every parent’s worst nightmare. When Sarah arrives to collect her stepchildren and discovers they’ve been taken by their father, the tension escalates instantly. From that moment on, the story becomes a relentless race against time, layered with secrets, fear, and a growing sense of dread.
Bugler does an exceptional job of capturing Sarah’s vulnerability and frustration—especially the legal helplessness she faces as a stepmother. That emotional realism adds a powerful depth to the story, making it more than just a thriller; it’s a deeply unsettling exploration of family, trust, and how quickly everything can unravel.
The pacing is sharp and addictive, with short, tense chapters that make it almost impossible to put down. Just when you think you have a grasp on what’s happening, another twist pulls you deeper into the mystery. The ominous message—“Don’t go home. It’s not safe.”—lingers long after you’ve read it, setting the tone for a story filled with unease and suspicion.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers packed with tension, emotional stakes, and shocking reveals, The Stepmother is one to add to your list. It’s a compelling reminder that sometimes the people closest to us hold the darkest secrets.
**Rating: 5 🌟
Pub Date: 24 September 2026
The Stepmother is a gripping, emotionally charged thriller that hooks you from the very first page and refuses to let go.
What starts as an ordinary school pickup quickly spirals into every parent’s worst nightmare. When Sarah arrives to collect her stepchildren and discovers they’ve been taken by their father, the tension escalates instantly. From that moment on, the story becomes a relentless race against time, layered with secrets, fear, and a growing sense of dread.
Bugler does an exceptional job of capturing Sarah’s vulnerability and frustration—especially the legal helplessness she faces as a stepmother. That emotional realism adds a powerful depth to the story, making it more than just a thriller; it’s a deeply unsettling exploration of family, trust, and how quickly everything can unravel.
The pacing is sharp and addictive, with short, tense chapters that make it almost impossible to put down. Just when you think you have a grasp on what’s happening, another twist pulls you deeper into the mystery. The ominous message—“Don’t go home. It’s not safe.”—lingers long after you’ve read it, setting the tone for a story filled with unease and suspicion.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers packed with tension, emotional stakes, and shocking reveals, The Stepmother is one to add to your list. It’s a compelling reminder that sometimes the people closest to us hold the darkest secrets.
**Rating: 5 🌟
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC Review
The Stepmother by Sheila Bugler
Sarah believed she had a wonderful life with her partner and his two children, raising the twins as if they were her own. She loved them all deeply. Then, one day, her life shattered. Mike picked the twins up from school and disappeared without a trace. Terrified and desperate, Sarah searched for them, but no one seemed to know what had happened. The deeper she dug, the more danger she found herself in, and the secrets that slowly came to light shocked her to the core. Would she ever see the children again?
This was an incredible psychological thriller that hooked me from the very first page. The story is fast-paced yet well written, filled with twists that left me speechless. I kept turning the pages, eager to discover what would happen next. So many secrets were revealed along the way, and the characters developed significantly by the end of the novel.
I especially loved Sarah. She was fierce, determined, and willing to fight for the children no matter the cost. The secondary characters also played strong and important roles in shaping the story. Although the ending wasn't exactly what I expected, it fit the plot perfectly.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers packed with suspense and shocking revelations, this is definitely a book worth picking up.
The Stepmother by Sheila Bugler
Sarah believed she had a wonderful life with her partner and his two children, raising the twins as if they were her own. She loved them all deeply. Then, one day, her life shattered. Mike picked the twins up from school and disappeared without a trace. Terrified and desperate, Sarah searched for them, but no one seemed to know what had happened. The deeper she dug, the more danger she found herself in, and the secrets that slowly came to light shocked her to the core. Would she ever see the children again?
This was an incredible psychological thriller that hooked me from the very first page. The story is fast-paced yet well written, filled with twists that left me speechless. I kept turning the pages, eager to discover what would happen next. So many secrets were revealed along the way, and the characters developed significantly by the end of the novel.
I especially loved Sarah. She was fierce, determined, and willing to fight for the children no matter the cost. The secondary characters also played strong and important roles in shaping the story. Although the ending wasn't exactly what I expected, it fit the plot perfectly.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers packed with suspense and shocking revelations, this is definitely a book worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sarah arrives at school one day to pick up twins as normal. But, not normal, the twins are nowhere to be seen. She is told they were picked up earlier by their dad because she had been involved in an accident. After, she receives a text from her husband telling her not to return home because it is not safe. And the story goes from there with Sarah desperate to find her husband and children and understand what is happening.
The author did a great job of providing a story that pulled me in. It did not seem to lag as some tend to do and kept momentum throughout. The storyline itself was not super outlandish although I did have to do a bit of a mental stretch to see how all of the intertwining of characters happened. I am not normally one to figure out what has happened early in a story but this one was the outlier. I pretty quickly picked up on what was happening but I still wanted to finish which is a plus. There are still quite a few typos, etc., that need a good edit but overall the writing was not bad and what I expect from a domestic suspense like this.
I did receive this book as an arc from NetGalley
The author did a great job of providing a story that pulled me in. It did not seem to lag as some tend to do and kept momentum throughout. The storyline itself was not super outlandish although I did have to do a bit of a mental stretch to see how all of the intertwining of characters happened. I am not normally one to figure out what has happened early in a story but this one was the outlier. I pretty quickly picked up on what was happening but I still wanted to finish which is a plus. There are still quite a few typos, etc., that need a good edit but overall the writing was not bad and what I expect from a domestic suspense like this.
I did receive this book as an arc from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Pacy, suspenseful and full of secrets, The Stepmother by Sheila Bugler is a lively read that keeps you hooked.
The novel brilliantly turns the everyday into something nightmarish, tapping into every parent’s worst fear: the abduction of a child. Sarah’s day begins as ordinary and routine, until nine-year-old twins Izzy and Patrick fail to meet her at the school gates. What follows is an increasingly tense story of lies, deceit and withheld truths, constantly raising the question: who can she really trust?
The premise is thoughtful. While it includes classic thriller elements — unfolding events, hidden pasts and undisclosed identities — it also explores the legal and moral complexities of blended families. I particularly appreciated how it delves into the emotional reality of being a step-parent and what that role truly means. Bugler handles this with sensitivity, steering clear of the ‘wicked stepmother’ trope to focus instead on love and belonging.
There are plenty of engaging moments that keep the story moving at a brisk pace. A strong choice for readers who enjoy family drama with a thriller edge.
The novel brilliantly turns the everyday into something nightmarish, tapping into every parent’s worst fear: the abduction of a child. Sarah’s day begins as ordinary and routine, until nine-year-old twins Izzy and Patrick fail to meet her at the school gates. What follows is an increasingly tense story of lies, deceit and withheld truths, constantly raising the question: who can she really trust?
The premise is thoughtful. While it includes classic thriller elements — unfolding events, hidden pasts and undisclosed identities — it also explores the legal and moral complexities of blended families. I particularly appreciated how it delves into the emotional reality of being a step-parent and what that role truly means. Bugler handles this with sensitivity, steering clear of the ‘wicked stepmother’ trope to focus instead on love and belonging.
There are plenty of engaging moments that keep the story moving at a brisk pace. A strong choice for readers who enjoy family drama with a thriller edge.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely loved The Stepmother by Sheila Bugler—it’s exactly the kind of psychological read I enjoy. The tension builds brilliantly, and the action never lets up, which kept me completely hooked from start to finish. I really appreciated how the story unfolded, with revelations revealed at just the right moments to keep the suspense high. The twists were genuinely unexpected, and the ending didn’t go the way I thought it would at all, but I really liked how everything was wrapped up—it felt both satisfying and impactful.
Sarah was a standout character for me. I loved her fierce, protective nature—like a true tigress fighting for her cubs—and I thought she handled everything thrown at her incredibly well. The characters overall were so well drawn and realistic that I found it easy to picture both them and the scenes as I read.
There are so many secrets woven into the story, and the writing is clear, concise, and perfectly paced. Sheila Bugler does a fantastic job of keeping the reader engaged throughout, and this is definitely an author I want to read more from.
Sarah was a standout character for me. I loved her fierce, protective nature—like a true tigress fighting for her cubs—and I thought she handled everything thrown at her incredibly well. The characters overall were so well drawn and realistic that I found it easy to picture both them and the scenes as I read.
There are so many secrets woven into the story, and the writing is clear, concise, and perfectly paced. Sheila Bugler does a fantastic job of keeping the reader engaged throughout, and this is definitely an author I want to read more from.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a good read, with action that built up as the story continued. It centers on Sarah, who goes to pick her twins up at school only to realize that her partner Mike has already taken them with no explanation. The rest of the book is Sarah trying to get them back while at the same time investigating the secrets Mike was hiding. Of course she has secrets of her own too.
Sarah acted like I would expect of someone in this situation as she untangled the various clues to figure out what was happening. There were some things that I felt she was a little slow to pick up on, but I enjoyed being along for the ride as she figured stuff out. While I thought it was pretty clear who the culprit was early in the book, I enjoyed following the breadcrumbs. I thought the ending of the book was realistic for the story and the characters, though I suspect some won't be satisfied.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I would recommend to those who enjoy psychological thrillers. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sarah acted like I would expect of someone in this situation as she untangled the various clues to figure out what was happening. There were some things that I felt she was a little slow to pick up on, but I enjoyed being along for the ride as she figured stuff out. While I thought it was pretty clear who the culprit was early in the book, I enjoyed following the breadcrumbs. I thought the ending of the book was realistic for the story and the characters, though I suspect some won't be satisfied.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I would recommend to those who enjoy psychological thrillers. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2026
The Stepmother is a tense, fast~ paced domestic thriller that quickly turns an ordinary family routine into a nightmare. When Sarah arrives to collect her stepchildren from school and discovers they’ve disappeared with their father, the story plunges into a gripping mystery built on secrets, trust and vulnerability. The premise - where Sarah has little legal standing as she isn’t married - adds a chilling layer of realism and urgency.
Sheila Bugler excels at creating unease within familiar domestic settings, gradually revealing hidden tensions beneath what first appears to be a stable family life. The pacing is sharp, with short, suspenseful developments that keep the reader engaged, while the emotional stakes - particularly Sarah’s desperation - give the thriller real depth.
The book’s strength lies in its ability to capture the rising tension and with plenty of unexpected surprises along the way.
A great read, highly recommended.
Sheila Bugler excels at creating unease within familiar domestic settings, gradually revealing hidden tensions beneath what first appears to be a stable family life. The pacing is sharp, with short, suspenseful developments that keep the reader engaged, while the emotional stakes - particularly Sarah’s desperation - give the thriller real depth.
The book’s strength lies in its ability to capture the rising tension and with plenty of unexpected surprises along the way.
A great read, highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Firstly, I just wanted to say thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the opportunity to read this advance copy of The Stepmother by Sheila Bugler. As I'm not a fan of spoilers, there wont be any in this review.
This is the first time I've read anything by Sheila Bugler and I honestly have to say I loved it. The style of writing, vocabulary used and chronological order of the book made it an easy and enjoyable read. The storyline was tense and unbelievably realistic, that at times I felt a sense of unease. The more I got into the book I found that each chapter gave just enough to keep me guessing, and just when I got to grips with that, another twist was introduced so that I was never entirely sure who or what to trust.
In all, this was a refreshingly different storyline where I could never have predicted the end. If you enjoy books where family dynamics are intense and unpredictable, this is the read for you.
This is the first time I've read anything by Sheila Bugler and I honestly have to say I loved it. The style of writing, vocabulary used and chronological order of the book made it an easy and enjoyable read. The storyline was tense and unbelievably realistic, that at times I felt a sense of unease. The more I got into the book I found that each chapter gave just enough to keep me guessing, and just when I got to grips with that, another twist was introduced so that I was never entirely sure who or what to trust.
In all, this was a refreshingly different storyline where I could never have predicted the end. If you enjoy books where family dynamics are intense and unpredictable, this is the read for you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We start with a young, pregnant terrified woman in an abusive relationship plotting her escape. Then pivot to Sarah.
Sarah goes to collect her kids from school on the day before holidays start, they aren’t there. Over some tense reading it transpires their Dad, Mike, has picked them up, wont return Sarah’s call but does send her a text telling her not to go home, it’s too dangerous.
For the remainder we follow Sarah as she frantically searches for her family. Mike’s secrets, Sarah’s secrets slowly reveal themselves.
Look for a tight, gripping, psychological thriller page turner? This is that book, a brilliant engaging book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Sarah goes to collect her kids from school on the day before holidays start, they aren’t there. Over some tense reading it transpires their Dad, Mike, has picked them up, wont return Sarah’s call but does send her a text telling her not to go home, it’s too dangerous.
For the remainder we follow Sarah as she frantically searches for her family. Mike’s secrets, Sarah’s secrets slowly reveal themselves.
Look for a tight, gripping, psychological thriller page turner? This is that book, a brilliant engaging book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Hodder & Stoughton for the ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved the premise of this book. Strong start with lies and deceit. Who is telling the truth and who is even who they claim to be? Who can be trusted? The reader is well and truly drawn in, especially as two vulnerable children are involved.
However, for me, about half way through, the story begins to lose it's way and becomes drawn out. By the last 25% is is simply silly and a series of coincidences and spoken explanations.
The reader should be able to work out what is happening rather than needing to be told.
Why were doors and gates suddenly left open and how did a nine year old suddenly know the combination to a lock???
A good start but a poor ending.
With thanks to Sheila Bugler, the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, for me, about half way through, the story begins to lose it's way and becomes drawn out. By the last 25% is is simply silly and a series of coincidences and spoken explanations.
The reader should be able to work out what is happening rather than needing to be told.
Why were doors and gates suddenly left open and how did a nine year old suddenly know the combination to a lock???
A good start but a poor ending.
With thanks to Sheila Bugler, the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2026
Well done! This is a solid thriller with lots of action and twists galore. Not earth shattering twists but decent and interesting. You can figure out some of the twists but it is still ok and won’t impact your enjoyment of the book. It’s a fast read with relatively short chapters and good pacing. The characters were consistent and their actions made good sense for the most part. This feels like a fun pulpy beach read for hot summer days. This is my first book by the author but I would definitely pick up her other novels!
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced review copy for honest review!
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the advanced review copy for honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely amazing and I read this over the course of a day as I could not put it down! What a book! This story was one that kept me turning page after page with Sarah, mike, bill and the rest.
This was weaved together perfectly and I just had to keep turning each page to find out what was next.
I loved the way it all came together at the end as even I didn't see it turning out that way.
a brilliant author and I will most definitely want to check out other books she writes!
You won't be disappointed with this at all! this is one of the best books I've read so far this year in 2026.
I'm so grateful for the advanced copy ... 5 stars amazing!!! 🙂🙂
This was weaved together perfectly and I just had to keep turning each page to find out what was next.
I loved the way it all came together at the end as even I didn't see it turning out that way.
a brilliant author and I will most definitely want to check out other books she writes!
You won't be disappointed with this at all! this is one of the best books I've read so far this year in 2026.
I'm so grateful for the advanced copy ... 5 stars amazing!!! 🙂🙂
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
was hooked from the very first page.
The storyline pulls you in straight away
with a strong, gripping opening that makes it hard to put down.
It’s a really intriguing concept
and I was completely invested in seeing how it would all unfold.
However, for me it did lose its way slightly towards the end.
It felt like it could have wrapped up sooner
and the pacing didn’t quite match the strong start.
That said, it was still an enjoyable read
with plenty of tension and moments that kept me turning the pages.
I would definitely read more from this author
as the writing style really pulled me in.
✨ A strong start with a slightly slower finish
The storyline pulls you in straight away
with a strong, gripping opening that makes it hard to put down.
It’s a really intriguing concept
and I was completely invested in seeing how it would all unfold.
However, for me it did lose its way slightly towards the end.
It felt like it could have wrapped up sooner
and the pacing didn’t quite match the strong start.
That said, it was still an enjoyable read
with plenty of tension and moments that kept me turning the pages.
I would definitely read more from this author
as the writing style really pulled me in.
✨ A strong start with a slightly slower finish
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A woman discovers her partner has been keeping secrets - possibly dangerous ones - when she goes to pick up the step children she loves from school and finds out that their father has already, and very unexpectedly, taken them out.
Where to? She has no idea, and is getting no responses to her calls. Until an ominous message arrives warning her to get away as quickly as she can...
This is an interesting and well paced story, with relatable characters. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Where to? She has no idea, and is getting no responses to her calls. Until an ominous message arrives warning her to get away as quickly as she can...
This is an interesting and well paced story, with relatable characters. It gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Hodder and Stoughton for an early copy of The Stepmother. This was a really good read. What an Awesome and sometimes Terrifying plot! There were plenty of parts that were obvious but that didn’t stop the book from being suspenseful. I always knew there was something about Paloma. Very well written, many emotions and the ending I was sad the way it turned out for Sarah and Mike. Thank you again, I loved it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2026
The Stepmother by Sheila Bugler ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this book. Caught my immediate attention and hooked me in. Great writing. Characters that you feel you know. Full of twists and secrets. Sarah arrives at the school gates to collect her children, their father has already collected them … and then unravels a great psychological thriller. Due to be published September’26. Thank you to netgalley for an advance copy.
I loved this book. Caught my immediate attention and hooked me in. Great writing. Characters that you feel you know. Full of twists and secrets. Sarah arrives at the school gates to collect her children, their father has already collected them … and then unravels a great psychological thriller. Due to be published September’26. Thank you to netgalley for an advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The suspense starts right away and you get pulled into this story. Yay for a great step-mother and kids who love her in this one instead of the normal evil characters. I read this in one day and the story moved very quickly. Some of the twists were obvious but there were a few surprises and the suspense continued throughout.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I don’t want to read about domestic coercion and manipulation under the guise of it being an entertaining book. The description of the book gave no indication that this was part of the story. I do not recommend. This was an ARC from NetGalley. I can’t even bring myself to thank the author for allowing me to read it.
May 1, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley
Not a bad book. A little predictable here and there but overall a nice read. Happy to see the stepmother is not the evil one this time around. Book has a few visible typos but nothing that will ruin it for me. Enjoyed the ending but felt a little rushed. I would definitely recommend this book as a light read.
Not a bad book. A little predictable here and there but overall a nice read. Happy to see the stepmother is not the evil one this time around. Book has a few visible typos but nothing that will ruin it for me. Enjoyed the ending but felt a little rushed. I would definitely recommend this book as a light read.
May 2, 2026
I really have mixed feelings about this book. The premise was very promising and the actual storyline was good. I felt it was somewhat drawn out and not very believable in parts. Sara was a great strong and courageous character, but got a little annoying by the end. Overall it’s a solid book but I was ready for it to be the end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book had me hooked from the first page!
Loads of twists and turns which kept me reading.
I finished this today on my flight and absolutely loved it!
I needed to know what was going to happen next with the twins.
Highly recommend
Thanks Netgalley for letting me read this book for an honest review
Loads of twists and turns which kept me reading.
I finished this today on my flight and absolutely loved it!
I needed to know what was going to happen next with the twins.
Highly recommend
Thanks Netgalley for letting me read this book for an honest review
May 12, 2026
Review of advanced copy sent via Netgalley
Really enjoyed the premise, different from other thrillers I have read especially from the perspective of a stepmother. Very twisty, kept me on the edge of my toes however unfortunately I found this quite predicatable, therefore the ending and twists towards the end didn’t land as well as I had hoped, however I did enjoy this book
Really enjoyed the premise, different from other thrillers I have read especially from the perspective of a stepmother. Very twisty, kept me on the edge of my toes however unfortunately I found this quite predicatable, therefore the ending and twists towards the end didn’t land as well as I had hoped, however I did enjoy this book
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