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The Girl with the Baby: A completely gripping and twisty page-turner
‘Oh my gosh… Absolutely blew me away. If I could give it more than five stars, I would in a heartbeat… Had me glued to the pages, breath held, wondering what twist was coming next… Truly one of those addictive, stay-up-too-late reads.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Annie’s life looks perfect on the surface. Peaceful mornings in her beautiful, tumbledown cottage, working from home looking out over the daisies in the bottom of the garden. But there’s a reason Annie never ventures into town, a secret she’s hiding about where she’s from. A secret that’s put another woman in danger…
Jade arrives at Annie’s front door with a baby sleeping sounding against her chest. She has the daughter Annie always dreamed of having, but one that came at a terrible cost. Jade knows Annie is the only person who can help her, who knows how to find safe haven from a man like the father of her child.
But Jade doesn’t know every piece of Annie’s story.
And Annie has no idea what Jade would do to save her daughter.
These two women have dark secrets. They both loved a dangerous man. But their lies will come at a terrible cost…
Fans of Liane Moriarty, Jodi Picoult and Linda Green will be completely gripped by this jaw-dropping page-turner filled with heart-stopping twists.
What readers are saying about The Girl with the Baby:
‘I raced through this book in one sitting… I may have whiplash from the never-ending twists and turns… Read this in one day I could not put it down. Highly recommend!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Hooked from start to finish!... Heart-pounding… Will keep you guessing until the very end… Gripping.’ sapphirenst9ne, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Perfect… I devoured this. It was impossible to stop reading.’ kkecreads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘BRILLIANT… Gripping… Had me absolutely hooked… I could barely breathe! The huge, shocking twist was like a punch to gut… Perfect!’ Goodreads reviewer
‘Absolutely loved… Kept me hooked right to the end.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Brilliant… I couldn’t stop turning the pages fast enough… I even forgot to eat lunch… I was so engrossed… Extremely well deserved 5 stars for this read.’ jsybookworm, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Had me engrossed right from the start… Twists and turns all the way through… Absolutely brilliant.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Annie’s life looks perfect on the surface. Peaceful mornings in her beautiful, tumbledown cottage, working from home looking out over the daisies in the bottom of the garden. But there’s a reason Annie never ventures into town, a secret she’s hiding about where she’s from. A secret that’s put another woman in danger…
Jade arrives at Annie’s front door with a baby sleeping sounding against her chest. She has the daughter Annie always dreamed of having, but one that came at a terrible cost. Jade knows Annie is the only person who can help her, who knows how to find safe haven from a man like the father of her child.
But Jade doesn’t know every piece of Annie’s story.
And Annie has no idea what Jade would do to save her daughter.
These two women have dark secrets. They both loved a dangerous man. But their lies will come at a terrible cost…
Fans of Liane Moriarty, Jodi Picoult and Linda Green will be completely gripped by this jaw-dropping page-turner filled with heart-stopping twists.
What readers are saying about The Girl with the Baby:
‘I raced through this book in one sitting… I may have whiplash from the never-ending twists and turns… Read this in one day I could not put it down. Highly recommend!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Hooked from start to finish!... Heart-pounding… Will keep you guessing until the very end… Gripping.’ sapphirenst9ne, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Perfect… I devoured this. It was impossible to stop reading.’ kkecreads, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘BRILLIANT… Gripping… Had me absolutely hooked… I could barely breathe! The huge, shocking twist was like a punch to gut… Perfect!’ Goodreads reviewer
‘Absolutely loved… Kept me hooked right to the end.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Brilliant… I couldn’t stop turning the pages fast enough… I even forgot to eat lunch… I was so engrossed… Extremely well deserved 5 stars for this read.’ jsybookworm, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Had me engrossed right from the start… Twists and turns all the way through… Absolutely brilliant.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
266 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2026
127 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
January 28, 2026
This book was like whittling away at wood. The closer you got to the core the more there was exposed.
I empathized with Annie after her terrible ordeal, hiding away from the world.
Aaron was a sweetie and definitely interested.
I thought Jade was very pushy and entitled. She got what she had coming to her.
The ending is explosive but alls well that ends well.
Thanks Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance copy.
I empathized with Annie after her terrible ordeal, hiding away from the world.
Aaron was a sweetie and definitely interested.
I thought Jade was very pushy and entitled. She got what she had coming to her.
The ending is explosive but alls well that ends well.
Thanks Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When you’ve lived for years in a precarious situation that you barely managed to escape from, all you want is to build a quiet life somewhere and keep contact with the outside world to an absolute minimum. That works perfectly—until one day someone shows up on your doorstep, someone you would much rather send away as quickly as possible, but something holds you back. This person needs you, and because you recognize the signs, you open your door and let her in.
The obvious question is: was this the right decision, or the biggest mistake you could have made?
This is what Annie goes through. The presence of her guest brings back memories she would much prefer to keep locked away in a dark corner of her mind.
It soon becomes clear that the guest has a hidden agenda—something you, as a reader, may already suspect—but what exactly was the sinister plan? It was certainly not what I expected. And although the story may feel a bit quiet at times, the payoff is powerful. The tension builds slowly toward a climax that completely blew me away.
Some people truly possess a masterful mind. Unfortunately, they often use it for devious purposes instead of for things that could benefit others.
Annie has been through a lot, and I completely understand her behavior. I think I would want to crawl under a rock myself in her situation. That’s why I was so pleased with the growth and evolution she experiences throughout the story.
Sometimes you really can’t see a way out and fear—or even panic—takes over, but that doesn’t mean happiness can’t find you again.
I was deeply moved by Annie’s story and utterly repulsed by Jade’s.
Money may not buy happiness, but having no money at all can make you deeply unhappy—with all the consequences that come with it.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and happily give it 4.5 stars.
Thank you.
The obvious question is: was this the right decision, or the biggest mistake you could have made?
This is what Annie goes through. The presence of her guest brings back memories she would much prefer to keep locked away in a dark corner of her mind.
It soon becomes clear that the guest has a hidden agenda—something you, as a reader, may already suspect—but what exactly was the sinister plan? It was certainly not what I expected. And although the story may feel a bit quiet at times, the payoff is powerful. The tension builds slowly toward a climax that completely blew me away.
Some people truly possess a masterful mind. Unfortunately, they often use it for devious purposes instead of for things that could benefit others.
Annie has been through a lot, and I completely understand her behavior. I think I would want to crawl under a rock myself in her situation. That’s why I was so pleased with the growth and evolution she experiences throughout the story.
Sometimes you really can’t see a way out and fear—or even panic—takes over, but that doesn’t mean happiness can’t find you again.
I was deeply moved by Annie’s story and utterly repulsed by Jade’s.
Money may not buy happiness, but having no money at all can make you deeply unhappy—with all the consequences that come with it.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and happily give it 4.5 stars.
Thank you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Skip to
Annie is living as a recluse in her childhood home after escaping from an abusive husband. She never goes out and relies on her neighbour to bring her groceries etc. Then one day a young woman with a baby appears and asks for Annie's help. Against her better judgement Annie lets her stay initially for a few days as she's convinced that Jade is the new wife of Annie's ex. The story is told from the two women's perspectives and it's clear that they both have secrets.
This is one of those books where you can't decide who is telling the truth and the twists keep coming, Although I did suspect who Jade was running away from I didn't expect the real reasons behind it and the ending was certainly a big surprise! A very enjoyable read.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the opportunity of reading an ARC of this book.
Annie is living as a recluse in her childhood home after escaping from an abusive husband. She never goes out and relies on her neighbour to bring her groceries etc. Then one day a young woman with a baby appears and asks for Annie's help. Against her better judgement Annie lets her stay initially for a few days as she's convinced that Jade is the new wife of Annie's ex. The story is told from the two women's perspectives and it's clear that they both have secrets.
This is one of those books where you can't decide who is telling the truth and the twists keep coming, Although I did suspect who Jade was running away from I didn't expect the real reasons behind it and the ending was certainly a big surprise! A very enjoyable read.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the opportunity of reading an ARC of this book.
January 17, 2026
This book follows Annie, who lives an almost solitary life after escaping an abusive marriage. Her days are quiet and cautious, relying on a kind neighbor to help with groceries while she stays constantly on alert, terrified her ex might show up at her door.
Everything changes when a woman named Jade appears with her baby, claiming she also escaped Annie’s abusive ex. From there, the story unfolds through tension, paranoia, and trauma.
To be honest, the book was painfully slow in pace, and I struggled to stay engaged at times. However, the reveal at the end was surprisingly satisfying and made everything click. It gave the story a sense of purpose that helped redeem the earlier drag.
Everything changes when a woman named Jade appears with her baby, claiming she also escaped Annie’s abusive ex. From there, the story unfolds through tension, paranoia, and trauma.
To be honest, the book was painfully slow in pace, and I struggled to stay engaged at times. However, the reveal at the end was surprisingly satisfying and made everything click. It gave the story a sense of purpose that helped redeem the earlier drag.
January 28, 2026
My fourth book by Sam Vickery and my first 5 star read from her. What a tense page turning brilliant psychological thriller!
Annie has made a quiet peaceful life for herself with all her routines and habits in place to keep her feeling safe. She enjoys gardening, come rain or shine, and also making custom birdhouses in her woodworking shed for the residents of the small town she lives in. She doesn’t leave her house but her neighbour, Aaron, who lives next door, is more than happy to do errands for her in town and buy anything she needs. She also enjoys the peace of mind she feels knowing he is a police officer should she require any help. Suddenly one day a young woman turns up on her doorstep with a newborn baby in her arms asking for help. Annie feels no choice but to invite her in. Jade is running scared with her newborn daughter, Amala, and has secrets but is reluctant to share them with Annie, in turn Annie has secrets she doesn’t want to share with Jade. Will both women be able to outrun their past or will all their secrets catch up with them?!
Well as I said above this was such a great read! The tension was written so well and although I felt the beginning of the story was a little slow, I understand it was setting the scene and was necessary. Once the pace picked up it never stopped and I couldn’t stop turning the pages fast enough, I was amazed when I hit the halfway mark and I even forgot to eat lunch on one of the days I was reading as I was so engrossed in the story. I did find myself getting frustrated with Annie but at the same time, as the story progressed and her character developed, I started to understand why she was the way she was, and I warmed to her. It was quite heartbreaking at times how she didn’t see herself very clearly at all, especially thinking she had no empathy when it was clear to me, as a reader, that she had a lot, and also was a lot stronger and braver than she gave herself credit for. I did find Jade extremely exasperating and didn’t warm to her at all, but I never figured how she was involved in the story which was great as I love a twist that I haven’t foreseen. Huge praise needs to go to Sam Vickery for writing two fictional characters that I had such high emotions about.
Overall, another brilliant psychological thriller that I would wholeheartedly recommend to any readers who love the psychological thriller genre. Extremely well deserved 5 stars for this read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Sam Vickery and Bookouture for my advanced reading copy. Out now.
Annie has made a quiet peaceful life for herself with all her routines and habits in place to keep her feeling safe. She enjoys gardening, come rain or shine, and also making custom birdhouses in her woodworking shed for the residents of the small town she lives in. She doesn’t leave her house but her neighbour, Aaron, who lives next door, is more than happy to do errands for her in town and buy anything she needs. She also enjoys the peace of mind she feels knowing he is a police officer should she require any help. Suddenly one day a young woman turns up on her doorstep with a newborn baby in her arms asking for help. Annie feels no choice but to invite her in. Jade is running scared with her newborn daughter, Amala, and has secrets but is reluctant to share them with Annie, in turn Annie has secrets she doesn’t want to share with Jade. Will both women be able to outrun their past or will all their secrets catch up with them?!
Well as I said above this was such a great read! The tension was written so well and although I felt the beginning of the story was a little slow, I understand it was setting the scene and was necessary. Once the pace picked up it never stopped and I couldn’t stop turning the pages fast enough, I was amazed when I hit the halfway mark and I even forgot to eat lunch on one of the days I was reading as I was so engrossed in the story. I did find myself getting frustrated with Annie but at the same time, as the story progressed and her character developed, I started to understand why she was the way she was, and I warmed to her. It was quite heartbreaking at times how she didn’t see herself very clearly at all, especially thinking she had no empathy when it was clear to me, as a reader, that she had a lot, and also was a lot stronger and braver than she gave herself credit for. I did find Jade extremely exasperating and didn’t warm to her at all, but I never figured how she was involved in the story which was great as I love a twist that I haven’t foreseen. Huge praise needs to go to Sam Vickery for writing two fictional characters that I had such high emotions about.
Overall, another brilliant psychological thriller that I would wholeheartedly recommend to any readers who love the psychological thriller genre. Extremely well deserved 5 stars for this read!
Thank you to NetGalley, Sam Vickery and Bookouture for my advanced reading copy. Out now.
January 28, 2026
Annie lives a reclusive life after running from her abusive ex. She doesn't leave her house so relies on her neighbour to do all of her shopping for her, and she doesn't let anyone inside. That is until Jade turns up with a tiny baby, fleeing from an abusive ex. Jade's story doesn't quite add up to Annie but she takes her in anyway. She soon realises she's made a big mistake and may have led her past right back to her door by trying to save this young mother and her child.
This was a solid thriller, full of twists and turns that keep you guessing all the way through. Sometimes these twists make the plot a bit convoluted and unbelievable, but that doesn't take away too much of the enjoyment from the book. Annie's past is described in fairly graphic detail, so it is advisable that you go into this with caution as the author deals with some pretty heavy topics around domestic violence and baby loss. She has however, handled these really well but it may still be very triggering to some readers.
This was a one sitting book for me, even when the plot got a bit overly crazy I still wanted to read on to find out how it ended. I did start to suspect the direction it was going to take at around the half way point, but its not immediately obvious who Jade is and what her motives are.
Definitely one to read if youre looking for something more psychological than focused around a murder. The only reason I gave it 3 stars is because I didn't feel like it was anything stand out special even though it is a very enjoyable read.
This was a solid thriller, full of twists and turns that keep you guessing all the way through. Sometimes these twists make the plot a bit convoluted and unbelievable, but that doesn't take away too much of the enjoyment from the book. Annie's past is described in fairly graphic detail, so it is advisable that you go into this with caution as the author deals with some pretty heavy topics around domestic violence and baby loss. She has however, handled these really well but it may still be very triggering to some readers.
This was a one sitting book for me, even when the plot got a bit overly crazy I still wanted to read on to find out how it ended. I did start to suspect the direction it was going to take at around the half way point, but its not immediately obvious who Jade is and what her motives are.
Definitely one to read if youre looking for something more psychological than focused around a murder. The only reason I gave it 3 stars is because I didn't feel like it was anything stand out special even though it is a very enjoyable read.
December 9, 2025
Sam Vickery's "The Girl with the Baby" delivers a tense psychological thriller centered on a reclusive woman in a quiet village who opens her isolated cottage to Jade, the new wife of her abusive ex, and her infant daughter. As bonds form amid shared trauma, subtle suspicions arise—Jade's furtive behaviour and unspoken secrets hint at deeper dangers lurking beneath the surface of their fragile alliance. Vickery masterfully builds domestic suspense, blending themes of trust, motherhood, and hidden pasts into a narrative that grips from the opening knock at the garden gate.
The story accelerates with heart-pounding twists, exploring how far one might go to protect a child while unraveling the layers of deception between the two women. The emotional depth and unforeseen revelations that challenge assumptions create a tense interest while reading. Vickery's prose captures the claustrophobic intimacy of rural isolation, making every shadowed corner feel alive with menace.
This page-turner earns its "completely gripping" tagline, with early buzz highlighting its unputdownable quality and jaw-dropping finale that lingers long after the last page. Ideal for fans of twisty women's fiction, it showcases Vickery's skill in crafting flawed, relatable protagonists whose choices propel a rollercoaster of empathy and shock. A standout debut in emotional suspense.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing the ARC.
The story accelerates with heart-pounding twists, exploring how far one might go to protect a child while unraveling the layers of deception between the two women. The emotional depth and unforeseen revelations that challenge assumptions create a tense interest while reading. Vickery's prose captures the claustrophobic intimacy of rural isolation, making every shadowed corner feel alive with menace.
This page-turner earns its "completely gripping" tagline, with early buzz highlighting its unputdownable quality and jaw-dropping finale that lingers long after the last page. Ideal for fans of twisty women's fiction, it showcases Vickery's skill in crafting flawed, relatable protagonists whose choices propel a rollercoaster of empathy and shock. A standout debut in emotional suspense.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ten years ago, Annie finally escaped her abusive partner, Ryan. Now, she lives quietly and privately in what was her parents home before they passed away. She never goes into town as her kind neighbor, Aaron, a policeman, picks up the things that she needs. He understands that she wants her privacy and he gives that to her.
One day, a young woman, Jade, and her infant daughter, Amala, come to Annie's gate asking if she will help them. At first, she refuses and sends them away but then relents and says they can stay for a week and then they must find another place to go. Annie notices the bruises on Jade and just knows that she is the young woman who married Ryan as her aunt had sent a picture of the woman. Annie tries to find the picture but doesn’t remember where she put it. Aaron is skeptical of Jade and doesn’t trust her. Annie hears Jade walking around the house at night which Jade says is her way of calming Amala. Is this woman Jade or someone else and why is she there?
The beginning of the book dragged for me. I felt Jade was lying even while she seemed to be a good mother. Annie was quirky and I didn’t understand why she didn’t seek police protection revenge herself against Ryan. There were just too many far-fetched things in this book to make me feel that it made sense. It was violent and rather off-putting. Sorry, not for me.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
One day, a young woman, Jade, and her infant daughter, Amala, come to Annie's gate asking if she will help them. At first, she refuses and sends them away but then relents and says they can stay for a week and then they must find another place to go. Annie notices the bruises on Jade and just knows that she is the young woman who married Ryan as her aunt had sent a picture of the woman. Annie tries to find the picture but doesn’t remember where she put it. Aaron is skeptical of Jade and doesn’t trust her. Annie hears Jade walking around the house at night which Jade says is her way of calming Amala. Is this woman Jade or someone else and why is she there?
The beginning of the book dragged for me. I felt Jade was lying even while she seemed to be a good mother. Annie was quirky and I didn’t understand why she didn’t seek police protection revenge herself against Ryan. There were just too many far-fetched things in this book to make me feel that it made sense. It was violent and rather off-putting. Sorry, not for me.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 stars and 0 peppers
While I am not new to the world of thrillers I am still very green. I do want to read more and I feel as though this book is a good introduction to the thriller genre. Not too much but just enough if you are getting your feet wet. I never put spoilers in my reviews and I won’t start now. The story follows Annie who is a simple girl who escaped a life of abuse and danger to live a simple life. She was able to live a quiet, peaceful albeit lonely life with no connections to the outside world. Now after years of being free we enter in Jade. She is a woman who is on the run with her baby in tow. Jade seeks refuge with Annie and though Annie is hesitant to let her in she does. Could letting this stranger in be the worst possible thing for Annie or the best thing that ever happened to her? Now with a thriller you never know which way the book will go and I can honestly say that out of all the outcomes I had come up with, none of them were even remotely lose to what actually happened. I love the character growth we see in Annie. That was so important and I wasn’t sure we as readers were going to get it so I am glad we did. Again if you are just starting out your journey with thrillers this would be a great first read. Well written and plot twist on dec. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.
While I am not new to the world of thrillers I am still very green. I do want to read more and I feel as though this book is a good introduction to the thriller genre. Not too much but just enough if you are getting your feet wet. I never put spoilers in my reviews and I won’t start now. The story follows Annie who is a simple girl who escaped a life of abuse and danger to live a simple life. She was able to live a quiet, peaceful albeit lonely life with no connections to the outside world. Now after years of being free we enter in Jade. She is a woman who is on the run with her baby in tow. Jade seeks refuge with Annie and though Annie is hesitant to let her in she does. Could letting this stranger in be the worst possible thing for Annie or the best thing that ever happened to her? Now with a thriller you never know which way the book will go and I can honestly say that out of all the outcomes I had come up with, none of them were even remotely lose to what actually happened. I love the character growth we see in Annie. That was so important and I wasn’t sure we as readers were going to get it so I am glad we did. Again if you are just starting out your journey with thrillers this would be a great first read. Well written and plot twist on dec. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I found it to be an intense and gripping tale - the sense that something is wrong oozes from the pages.
Annie lives as a recluse after fleeing from an abusive relationship until one day a young woman with a baby turns up at her door looking for safety and asking for her help. Annie decides to let her in, but has she made a mistake in trusting the one woman she shouldn’t have. What unfolds is a tense, at times heartbreaking as well as shocking read.
The dual POV chapters, told by Annie and Jade, have a steady momentum that maintains an engaging pace, and I felt Annie’s fear, isolation and mistrust on every page. With themes of abuse, control and deception, this book was hard to read but also hard to put down.
The build up was taut and the atmosphere the story created was heavy, emotional and full of tension. I found this to be a real page-turner, and when the twist hits, it’s a clever and emotional scene, wrapping the story up nicely. Hugely compelling, immensely readable, heartbreaking and unexpectedly emotional- impossible to put down. This book is available from 27th January 2026.
Thank you to Net Galley and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
Annie lives as a recluse after fleeing from an abusive relationship until one day a young woman with a baby turns up at her door looking for safety and asking for her help. Annie decides to let her in, but has she made a mistake in trusting the one woman she shouldn’t have. What unfolds is a tense, at times heartbreaking as well as shocking read.
The dual POV chapters, told by Annie and Jade, have a steady momentum that maintains an engaging pace, and I felt Annie’s fear, isolation and mistrust on every page. With themes of abuse, control and deception, this book was hard to read but also hard to put down.
The build up was taut and the atmosphere the story created was heavy, emotional and full of tension. I found this to be a real page-turner, and when the twist hits, it’s a clever and emotional scene, wrapping the story up nicely. Hugely compelling, immensely readable, heartbreaking and unexpectedly emotional- impossible to put down. This book is available from 27th January 2026.
Thank you to Net Galley and Bookouture for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Annie lives a quiet life in her cottage, alone from everyone else and not telling anyone about the man she has run away from. But then a trembling Jade and her baby appear at Annie’s door. She realises that Jade is the man her ex married and that this must be his child. Annie finds herself letting Jade in, thinking she will be the one person she can confide in. But soon Annie starts to wonder if she can trust the woman she has invited in, but perhaps Jade has sought safety in the one place she’s in the most danger.
Ever since reading my first book by this author, she is now a go to one for me and I have to pick up her latest reads. This was another entertaining read, however seemed a lot slower paced than her others, where by I spent the first half waiting for it to go anywhere. The second half made up for it though and became fun, twisty and suspenseful.
Even though I figured some parts out, it was enjoyable getting there and I kept changing my mind who I could trust. There are emotionally charged parts to the story and I ultimately found the ending satisfying. I am pleased this was another enjoyable thriller by this author and I look forward to reading more. 3.5 stars rounded up. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
Ever since reading my first book by this author, she is now a go to one for me and I have to pick up her latest reads. This was another entertaining read, however seemed a lot slower paced than her others, where by I spent the first half waiting for it to go anywhere. The second half made up for it though and became fun, twisty and suspenseful.
Even though I figured some parts out, it was enjoyable getting there and I kept changing my mind who I could trust. There are emotionally charged parts to the story and I ultimately found the ending satisfying. I am pleased this was another enjoyable thriller by this author and I look forward to reading more. 3.5 stars rounded up. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
February 8, 2026
This story thrives on tension built in silence. Annie has carved out a life designed to be small, controlled, and unseen after escaping a violent marriage. Her world is deliberately narrow—until a stranger named Jade arrives at her door holding a baby and asking for help. From that moment on, the sense of safety Annie has constructed begins to fracture.
What follows is a tightly wound psychological thriller where trust feels dangerous and every interaction carries weight. The shared space becomes suffocating as Annie and Jade circle each other with equal parts fear and suspicion, each hiding truths that could unravel everything. The dual perspectives deepen the unease, constantly shifting your loyalties and keeping you off balance.
The novel is spare in setting but rich in atmosphere, proving that you don’t need a large cast or sweeping locations to create high stakes. It’s a fast, unsettling read that explores survival, trauma, and the cost of opening your door—both literally and emotionally. If you enjoy thrillers that rely on mood, doubt, and sharp twists rather than nonstop action, this one delivers.
Thank you to NetGalley and bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What follows is a tightly wound psychological thriller where trust feels dangerous and every interaction carries weight. The shared space becomes suffocating as Annie and Jade circle each other with equal parts fear and suspicion, each hiding truths that could unravel everything. The dual perspectives deepen the unease, constantly shifting your loyalties and keeping you off balance.
The novel is spare in setting but rich in atmosphere, proving that you don’t need a large cast or sweeping locations to create high stakes. It’s a fast, unsettling read that explores survival, trauma, and the cost of opening your door—both literally and emotionally. If you enjoy thrillers that rely on mood, doubt, and sharp twists rather than nonstop action, this one delivers.
Thank you to NetGalley and bookouture for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Girl With the Baby by Sam Vickery
This was my first book by Sam Vickery and it did not disappoint. This book had me hooked on the prologue.
Annie was a woman that escaped an abusive husband that lived a secluded minimal lifestyle. Until one day Jade another woman with a newborn baby shows up at her house. Annie reluctant to let her in her home decides she needs to help this woman that she believes is the wife of her abusive ex. Annie struggles with reminders of her trauma and having this woman in her home that she can not fully trust. While Jade has some shady characteristics that make you question why she has showed up at Annie’s.
This book kept you guessing the entire time. The plot twist was perfect and was NOT what I was expecting. Annie struggles with overcoming her fear of trust. As the reader I was even questioning the character’s motives including her neighbor friend.
I would recommend this book. It was psychological suspense with a WOW ending! I will be reading other books by this author
Thank you #NetGalley and publisher for this ARC in return for reading and review of #TheGirlWithTheBaby
This was my first book by Sam Vickery and it did not disappoint. This book had me hooked on the prologue.
Annie was a woman that escaped an abusive husband that lived a secluded minimal lifestyle. Until one day Jade another woman with a newborn baby shows up at her house. Annie reluctant to let her in her home decides she needs to help this woman that she believes is the wife of her abusive ex. Annie struggles with reminders of her trauma and having this woman in her home that she can not fully trust. While Jade has some shady characteristics that make you question why she has showed up at Annie’s.
This book kept you guessing the entire time. The plot twist was perfect and was NOT what I was expecting. Annie struggles with overcoming her fear of trust. As the reader I was even questioning the character’s motives including her neighbor friend.
I would recommend this book. It was psychological suspense with a WOW ending! I will be reading other books by this author
Thank you #NetGalley and publisher for this ARC in return for reading and review of #TheGirlWithTheBaby
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars for me.
Annie escapes her ex husband Ryan abuse,and live sheltered life from everyone.Her only contact with outside world is Aaron,her neighbour who's a policeman.Imagine her surprise when her ex new wife Jade arrive on her doorstep with a baby,looking for shelter.Annie is trying to help,but she's conflicted about it,as Jade is not really truthful about whom and why she's running from.
Will Annie be forced to hide from Ryan again?
Is Jade Ryan's new wife?
It was a quick and tension filled thriller,I honestly didn't know what author was planning.Annie is described as this hurt and lonely woman,but also slowly finding the strenght to stop being afraid.Jade with her newborn is hidding and it's hard to guess her true intention.I'm glad that I got to read this book,and very satisfied with the ending.Full of twists I did not see coming,this gripping read is something that blew me away,my first by this author and hope to read more.
If you looking for thriller with unexpected twists that book is for you,would recommend.
Thank you netgalley and Bookouture for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Annie escapes her ex husband Ryan abuse,and live sheltered life from everyone.Her only contact with outside world is Aaron,her neighbour who's a policeman.Imagine her surprise when her ex new wife Jade arrive on her doorstep with a baby,looking for shelter.Annie is trying to help,but she's conflicted about it,as Jade is not really truthful about whom and why she's running from.
Will Annie be forced to hide from Ryan again?
Is Jade Ryan's new wife?
It was a quick and tension filled thriller,I honestly didn't know what author was planning.Annie is described as this hurt and lonely woman,but also slowly finding the strenght to stop being afraid.Jade with her newborn is hidding and it's hard to guess her true intention.I'm glad that I got to read this book,and very satisfied with the ending.Full of twists I did not see coming,this gripping read is something that blew me away,my first by this author and hope to read more.
If you looking for thriller with unexpected twists that book is for you,would recommend.
Thank you netgalley and Bookouture for arc,my review is honest and my own.
January 25, 2026
The Girl with the Baby by Sam Vickery
Whew. This was heavy. But respectfully done, with a beautiful arc that leaves you feeling hopeful.
Annie has survived a lot. And her trauma has left her afraid of everything. She doesn’t leave her secluded home. Her neighbor tends to her shopping needs, and is all the companionship she has. And she has a routine. Security. She likes it this way. Until a terrified woman with an infant shows up begging her for help.
The way this story unfolded was bonkers. This was such a tragic story, but it also had such a perfect redemption twist.
I devoured this one. It was impossible to stop reading. Annie was such a complicated character. She starts a bit odd, and you want to figure out why. As her story comes out, you find yourself hooked.
This was brilliantly done—an accurate tale of survival, forgiveness, and finding the light that will clear away the dark. I was impressed with Vickery’s writing; it was engaging and emotional.
This was fast-paced and intentional. I don’t think any word, situation, or twist was accidental. This was such a powerful story. Highly recommend.
Publication date: January 27, 2026
Publisher: Bookouture
Whew. This was heavy. But respectfully done, with a beautiful arc that leaves you feeling hopeful.
Annie has survived a lot. And her trauma has left her afraid of everything. She doesn’t leave her secluded home. Her neighbor tends to her shopping needs, and is all the companionship she has. And she has a routine. Security. She likes it this way. Until a terrified woman with an infant shows up begging her for help.
The way this story unfolded was bonkers. This was such a tragic story, but it also had such a perfect redemption twist.
I devoured this one. It was impossible to stop reading. Annie was such a complicated character. She starts a bit odd, and you want to figure out why. As her story comes out, you find yourself hooked.
This was brilliantly done—an accurate tale of survival, forgiveness, and finding the light that will clear away the dark. I was impressed with Vickery’s writing; it was engaging and emotional.
This was fast-paced and intentional. I don’t think any word, situation, or twist was accidental. This was such a powerful story. Highly recommend.
Publication date: January 27, 2026
Publisher: Bookouture
December 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this one — but a quick content note: if domestic violence is a trigger for you, you may want to skip it.
Annie lives a painfully isolated life in a tiny, remote village, doing everything she can to stay hidden from her abusive ex. When a young woman named Jade suddenly shows up at her door with a baby, Annie reluctantly allows her to stay, convinced Jade must be her ex’s new wife. But the longer these two women coexist under one roof, the clearer it becomes that neither of them is telling the full truth.
I love an unreliable narrator, and here we get two — both perspectives equally tense, slippery, and anxiety-inducing in the best way. The twists keep stacking, and I found myself genuinely worried for both Annie and Jade as the story unraveled.
Vickery does a phenomenal job portraying trauma, coercive control, motherhood, and the way identity can fracture under fear. I ended up reading this in a single sitting because I had to know where it was going — and the payoff was so satisfying!
Annie lives a painfully isolated life in a tiny, remote village, doing everything she can to stay hidden from her abusive ex. When a young woman named Jade suddenly shows up at her door with a baby, Annie reluctantly allows her to stay, convinced Jade must be her ex’s new wife. But the longer these two women coexist under one roof, the clearer it becomes that neither of them is telling the full truth.
I love an unreliable narrator, and here we get two — both perspectives equally tense, slippery, and anxiety-inducing in the best way. The twists keep stacking, and I found myself genuinely worried for both Annie and Jade as the story unraveled.
Vickery does a phenomenal job portraying trauma, coercive control, motherhood, and the way identity can fracture under fear. I ended up reading this in a single sitting because I had to know where it was going — and the payoff was so satisfying!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Annie lives a reclusive life in a quiet village. She has escaped a difficult marriage and the only contact she has with the outside would is with her Neighbour Aaron, a policeman who lives next door and who helps organise her groceries and her business contacts. One evening a woman called Jade shows up with a baby in her arms desperately seeking refuge. Annie is convinced that Jade is her ex husbands new wife and that like herself, is running away from him. Annie reluctantly helps her. But as the days go by, she becomes suspicious of Jade and her motives, and likewise, Jade is worried by Annie’s behaviour. Because there’s more to Annie’s past that she isn’t letting on.
I enjoyed this book but felt the first half was a little dragged out with the story focusing suspicion in one direction. The second half of the book really picked up the pace and changed that focus significantly. I wouldn’t have seen the ending coming as a result. I’d recommend it. Thanks to the author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I enjoyed this book but felt the first half was a little dragged out with the story focusing suspicion in one direction. The second half of the book really picked up the pace and changed that focus significantly. I wouldn’t have seen the ending coming as a result. I’d recommend it. Thanks to the author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Claustrophobic, chilling and completely compelling! In this suffocatingly atmospheric thriller, Annie’s hard-won solitude is a fragile shield against the ever present fear of her past.
Having escaped a brutal marriage, she lives in an almost solitary world defined by hyper-vigilance until Jade arrives, terrified and seeking refuge. Against her better judgment, Annie opens her door, sparking a slow-burn tension that is nothing short of masterfully executed.
The dual perspective is brilliant, it layers distrust and despair so thickly that you begin to question every motive.
I deeply felt Annie’s isolation and raced through the pages as her tentative confidence battled the mounting dread.
It’s rare for a story with just two main characters and one location to feel this claustrophobic and high-stakes.
I read into the wee small hours, hooked by the palpable sense of hopelessness leading to an ending crafted as neatly as a home made bird box wrapped in a purple bow. A standout read!
Having escaped a brutal marriage, she lives in an almost solitary world defined by hyper-vigilance until Jade arrives, terrified and seeking refuge. Against her better judgment, Annie opens her door, sparking a slow-burn tension that is nothing short of masterfully executed.
The dual perspective is brilliant, it layers distrust and despair so thickly that you begin to question every motive.
I deeply felt Annie’s isolation and raced through the pages as her tentative confidence battled the mounting dread.
It’s rare for a story with just two main characters and one location to feel this claustrophobic and high-stakes.
I read into the wee small hours, hooked by the palpable sense of hopelessness leading to an ending crafted as neatly as a home made bird box wrapped in a purple bow. A standout read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another BRILLIANT emotionally gripping thriller from Sam Vickery that, once again, had me absolutely hooked. Annie lives a solitary life until a young woman with a tiny baby comes to her door asking for help. Annie is terrified of letting anyone in, but she can't turn the baby away, despite how much it terrifies her.
Jade, the baby's mother, is difficult to read; there was something sinister about her, but I had no idea what - so intriguing - and as the two women danced around each other, neither quite trusting the other, there was a creepy and tense undertone running throughout.
Once the truth began to emerge, I could barely breathe! The huge, shocking twist was like a punch to the gut and the ensuing emotional ending was perfect! A fabulous read!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Sam Vickery and Bookouture, for an ARC of this book.
Jade, the baby's mother, is difficult to read; there was something sinister about her, but I had no idea what - so intriguing - and as the two women danced around each other, neither quite trusting the other, there was a creepy and tense undertone running throughout.
Once the truth began to emerge, I could barely breathe! The huge, shocking twist was like a punch to the gut and the ensuing emotional ending was perfect! A fabulous read!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Sam Vickery and Bookouture, for an ARC of this book.
January 15, 2026
The Girl With The Baby by Sam Vickery
‘Twisted Secrets’
Annie is a recluse living a life of solitude, she fears going out beyond her garden boundaries but why? Her neighbour Aaron helps with necessities, does he know why Annie lives this way, why she is so scared?
Jade arrives on Annie’s doorstep with her newborn baby asking Annie for ‘her’ help?
What secrets connect them and why does Jade specifically need Annie’s help?
Full of secrets right from the start, you are drawn into Annie’s life and why she has chosen to live the way she does.
Tension with unexpected twists that I didn’t see coming that make you say ‘What?’ out loud while reading alone.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Sam Vickery for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced copy of the novel #thegirlwiththebaby due for release 27th January 2026
‘Twisted Secrets’
Annie is a recluse living a life of solitude, she fears going out beyond her garden boundaries but why? Her neighbour Aaron helps with necessities, does he know why Annie lives this way, why she is so scared?
Jade arrives on Annie’s doorstep with her newborn baby asking Annie for ‘her’ help?
What secrets connect them and why does Jade specifically need Annie’s help?
Full of secrets right from the start, you are drawn into Annie’s life and why she has chosen to live the way she does.
Tension with unexpected twists that I didn’t see coming that make you say ‘What?’ out loud while reading alone.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Sam Vickery for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced copy of the novel #thegirlwiththebaby due for release 27th January 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story had my attention from the 1st page till the very end. Though it went in a totally different direction I thought it would. It was still really good with a twist I didn't expect.
Three years earlier Annie escaped an abusive relationship and was hiding from her ex. She had not left her house, her safe space for three years. She knew her ex had since gotten married and always wondered if she should have done something more to warn his new bride of the things he was capable of.
One day a woman and a baby shows up at her house begging for her to take them in and for help. Seeing bruises on the woman's chest and knowing what her ex put her through she reluctantly decided to let them come in and stay. Unsure of who she really was she felt the need to help.
But who was this woman and why was she there? What did she really want?
I do recommend this book.
Three years earlier Annie escaped an abusive relationship and was hiding from her ex. She had not left her house, her safe space for three years. She knew her ex had since gotten married and always wondered if she should have done something more to warn his new bride of the things he was capable of.
One day a woman and a baby shows up at her house begging for her to take them in and for help. Seeing bruises on the woman's chest and knowing what her ex put her through she reluctantly decided to let them come in and stay. Unsure of who she really was she felt the need to help.
But who was this woman and why was she there? What did she really want?
I do recommend this book.
January 7, 2026
The book starts off fast and the story takes off quickly. There is not much background or scope for character development as the book is just under 250 pages. Yet I found the middle 80% of the book very repetitve and unnecessary.
Some things were extremely hard to believe, still I stuck with it. The climax was underwhelming and left me expecting more. I could not connect with any of the characters and found the dialogue very unrealistic. I also found it really difficult to empathize with the protagonist, she kept making one stupid decision after another. Overall, this book just underdelivered for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for having me as an ARC reviewer for this book.
Some things were extremely hard to believe, still I stuck with it. The climax was underwhelming and left me expecting more. I could not connect with any of the characters and found the dialogue very unrealistic. I also found it really difficult to empathize with the protagonist, she kept making one stupid decision after another. Overall, this book just underdelivered for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for having me as an ARC reviewer for this book.
January 30, 2026
The main character Annie lives a solitary life in a quiet village, she rarely leaves her cottage and doesn’t interact with many people. One day she lets a young woman into her home and because of that one decision everything is about to change. This was a gripping and at times an emotional read . I did find it started off a bit slow but looking back this wasn’t a bad thing as after a few chapters things moved on at a much quicker pace and I was completely enthralled by the story. I was sure I had it all worked out in my head but I was way off the mark. There were plenty of twists that had me gasping out loud at times . A superb psychological thriller that I most definitely recommend for readers of this genre.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First things first, I want to thank both Netgalley as well as Bookouture for this ARC!
This book was sort of... heavy, and full of trauma. Not what I would have expected, and something that does usually stay with me for a few days even after I did finish reading. It is one of those stories that does unsettle you while reading, and keeps you in it's grip, wanting you to just read another chapter, even when you have to close your eyes for a moment to take a breath in between. Well earned 5 stars, very much recommended!
This book was sort of... heavy, and full of trauma. Not what I would have expected, and something that does usually stay with me for a few days even after I did finish reading. It is one of those stories that does unsettle you while reading, and keeps you in it's grip, wanting you to just read another chapter, even when you have to close your eyes for a moment to take a breath in between. Well earned 5 stars, very much recommended!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Annie has spent years hiding away in her childhood home after escaping an abusive marriage, trusting only her neighbour to help her survive. When a young woman named Jade shows up at her gate with a baby, Annie’s quiet, controlled world starts to unravel.
Told from dual perspectives, this is one of those tense reads where no one feels completely reliable and secrets slowly come to light. The pacing is slow at times, but the twists keep you guessing about who’s telling the truth and the ending genuinely surprised me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC
Told from dual perspectives, this is one of those tense reads where no one feels completely reliable and secrets slowly come to light. The pacing is slow at times, but the twists keep you guessing about who’s telling the truth and the ending genuinely surprised me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC
February 11, 2026
Shocking, Emotional Rollercoaster
The Girl with the Baby by Sam Vickers completely pulled me in and refused to let go. From the very first chapters, the tension builds in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling, twisting my emotions with every new revelation. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the ending flipped it all upside down — it was absolutely not what I was expecting. A gripping, emotionally charged thriller that lingers long after you turn the final page.
The Girl with the Baby by Sam Vickers completely pulled me in and refused to let go. From the very first chapters, the tension builds in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling, twisting my emotions with every new revelation. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the ending flipped it all upside down — it was absolutely not what I was expecting. A gripping, emotionally charged thriller that lingers long after you turn the final page.
November 29, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, author Sam Vickery, and Bookouture for the ARC and the opportunity to review this novel.
This domestic thriller unfolds at a slower pace, allowing tension to build gradually as the story progresses. While the premise initially felt somewhat unrealistic, the narrative ultimately comes together in a satisfying way. Overall, it’s an engaging read with a thoughtful payoff
Publishes January 2026
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
When you are running from Domestic Abuse and in hiding, what do you do when a woman with a newborn shows up on your doorstep asking for help?
Well you help her even if it goes against all your better judgment. I received this arc from the author for an honest review. I would totally recommend this to anyone looking for a good clean thriller. It keeps you engulfed in the story and wondering what happens next.
Well you help her even if it goes against all your better judgment. I received this arc from the author for an honest review. I would totally recommend this to anyone looking for a good clean thriller. It keeps you engulfed in the story and wondering what happens next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an arc copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for my honest opinion of it. I was excited to be approved for this book as I have enjoyed previous books by this author. This one was just okay for me. I felt like it was really dragging and I actually was able to figure things out early in the book which I am not normally able to do with a thriller. I felt like a few things were a little far fetched and I had to reread a few things at the end because I was confused.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I liked it. Short, easily read chapters and multiple POVs make this a fast read. It was a little slow to get going but it didn’t take very many chapters before I was intrigued and couldn’t put it down. The descriptions of the spousal abuse might be triggering for some. I’ve also enjoyed other titles by Sam Vickey and look forward to reading more titles by her.
Thank You to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Sam Vickery for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thank You to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Sam Vickery for the opportunity to read this ARC.
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