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The Killer On My Doorstep
A BRAND-NEW totally addictive psychological thriller full of shocking twists.
‘There’s a package on the porch,’ my husband calls as he leaves for work. I rip open the brown paper and find three books inside. I didn’t order them.
A week ago, my new neighbor was murdered in exactly the way described in the first book.
Her name was Naomi Sheller. I’ll never forget the first time I saw her - frozen in the middle of the grocery store, eyes wide with terror.
Days later, she’s found dead in the woods. Her husband, Eric, is led away in handcuffs.
The second book has another murder in it. And the victim sounds exactly like me.
We moved here from New York City to raise our daughters somewhere safe. But now I think I made a terrible mistake.
The police don’t believe me. My husband thinks I’m paranoid.
But I’m not.
Because whoever sent these books . . . knows exactly where I live
‘There’s a package on the porch,’ my husband calls as he leaves for work. I rip open the brown paper and find three books inside. I didn’t order them.
A week ago, my new neighbor was murdered in exactly the way described in the first book.
Her name was Naomi Sheller. I’ll never forget the first time I saw her - frozen in the middle of the grocery store, eyes wide with terror.
Days later, she’s found dead in the woods. Her husband, Eric, is led away in handcuffs.
The second book has another murder in it. And the victim sounds exactly like me.
We moved here from New York City to raise our daughters somewhere safe. But now I think I made a terrible mistake.
The police don’t believe me. My husband thinks I’m paranoid.
But I’m not.
Because whoever sent these books . . . knows exactly where I live
- GenresThriller
Paperback
Published January 13, 2026
4 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Brearton
46 books387 followersTimothy James Brearton lives in the Adirondack Mountains with his wife and three children. He's loved thrillers and police stories for most of his life. HABIT follows broken cop Brendan Healy down the rabbit hole of a human trafficking conspiracy. DEAD GONE delivers Florida cop Tom Lange into a criminal underworld and THE KILLING TIME introduces FBI agent Shannon Ames, a country girl in the big city.
http://tjbrearton.net/about
http://tjbrearton.net/about
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 23, 2025
Title: The Killer on My Doorstep
Author: TJ Brearton
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication Date: January 13, 2026
The description of this book really had me intrigued. A mystery package on your porch?! Who doesn't love that??
Unfortunately, I felt this book was a little too slow for me. There was a lot to unpack and follow. The good news is that it was not predictable. I definitely did not have the ending figured out.
This wasn't my favorite book, but I wouldn't mind reading other books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: TJ Brearton
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Publication Date: January 13, 2026
The description of this book really had me intrigued. A mystery package on your porch?! Who doesn't love that??
Unfortunately, I felt this book was a little too slow for me. There was a lot to unpack and follow. The good news is that it was not predictable. I definitely did not have the ending figured out.
This wasn't my favorite book, but I wouldn't mind reading other books by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
In this tense domestic thriller, we meet Lainey, a devoted wife and mother who remains a social outsider despite five years in her neighbourhood.
Desperate for acceptance within the local mums WhatsApp group, she begins a private investigation when her new neighbour is found murdered.
As the body count rises and eerie books mirroring the crimes arrive on her doorstep, Lainey’s life unravels under the weight of small town prejudice.
The story brilliantly captures the paralyzing need for belonging and the toxicity of a clique culture. Though Lainey makes questionable choices, her heart is in the right place, making her a relatable protagonist. It’s a compelling exploration of insecurity that culminates in a neatly tied up ending.
Desperate for acceptance within the local mums WhatsApp group, she begins a private investigation when her new neighbour is found murdered.
As the body count rises and eerie books mirroring the crimes arrive on her doorstep, Lainey’s life unravels under the weight of small town prejudice.
The story brilliantly captures the paralyzing need for belonging and the toxicity of a clique culture. Though Lainey makes questionable choices, her heart is in the right place, making her a relatable protagonist. It’s a compelling exploration of insecurity that culminates in a neatly tied up ending.
November 26, 2025
Brilliantly Chilling
T. J. Brearton has been one of my favourite authors for many years, so I was delighted to have the opportunity to read his latest novel — and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The story is immediately gripping, with a first chapter that makes it clear nothing about this book will be ordinary or predictable.
Elaine Barrister is curious about her new neighbours, but her interest soon draws her into far darker territory. As she becomes entangled in their lives, she unexpectedly finds herself playing the role of unofficial investigator following a sudden, suspicious death. Her involvement sends shockwaves through her “mums” group — tensions that only escalate when another death unsettles the community.
This intense psychological drama is fast-paced, twisty, and brilliantly disorienting. Brearton repeatedly leads the reader down roads that seem promising before abruptly veering in another direction. The sense of foreboding is constant, building steadily toward a chilling final confrontation between Elaine and the killer. I never once guessed the culprit, and the reveal left me genuinely stunned.
Well done to T. J. Brearton for delivering yet another nail-biting thriller that kept me on edge from start to finish. I’ll definitely be looking out for his next novel.
T. J. Brearton has been one of my favourite authors for many years, so I was delighted to have the opportunity to read his latest novel — and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The story is immediately gripping, with a first chapter that makes it clear nothing about this book will be ordinary or predictable.
Elaine Barrister is curious about her new neighbours, but her interest soon draws her into far darker territory. As she becomes entangled in their lives, she unexpectedly finds herself playing the role of unofficial investigator following a sudden, suspicious death. Her involvement sends shockwaves through her “mums” group — tensions that only escalate when another death unsettles the community.
This intense psychological drama is fast-paced, twisty, and brilliantly disorienting. Brearton repeatedly leads the reader down roads that seem promising before abruptly veering in another direction. The sense of foreboding is constant, building steadily toward a chilling final confrontation between Elaine and the killer. I never once guessed the culprit, and the reveal left me genuinely stunned.
Well done to T. J. Brearton for delivering yet another nail-biting thriller that kept me on edge from start to finish. I’ll definitely be looking out for his next novel.
January 8, 2026
A domestic psychological thriller with a surprise ending.
I just didnt anticipate what was coming at the end, there werent any clues toit at all.
Elaine - Lainey, her husband and two young daughters moved to this small town some five years ago. She has worked at trying to integrate with a local group of women, the moms, but is still regarded as a bit of an outsider and is not fully accepted.
Late at night new neighbours move into the empty house nexdoor. The wife from there is then found mudered. The police dont seem to be making much progress except to blame the husband, so Lainey decides to investigate using the skills she acquired along with her psychology degree. She isn't helped by the discovery of another body. Then, books describing similar crimes turn up on her doorstep. She continues her investigation and becomes ostracised by the moms.
The book starts off quite slowly, but the pace and the tension soon begin to ramp up. I'm not familiar with the work of T J Bearton , but they've certainly done a really good job here. This is well worth a read.
I just didnt anticipate what was coming at the end, there werent any clues toit at all.
Elaine - Lainey, her husband and two young daughters moved to this small town some five years ago. She has worked at trying to integrate with a local group of women, the moms, but is still regarded as a bit of an outsider and is not fully accepted.
Late at night new neighbours move into the empty house nexdoor. The wife from there is then found mudered. The police dont seem to be making much progress except to blame the husband, so Lainey decides to investigate using the skills she acquired along with her psychology degree. She isn't helped by the discovery of another body. Then, books describing similar crimes turn up on her doorstep. She continues her investigation and becomes ostracised by the moms.
The book starts off quite slowly, but the pace and the tension soon begin to ramp up. I'm not familiar with the work of T J Bearton , but they've certainly done a really good job here. This is well worth a read.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for ' The Killer On My Doorstep' by T.J. Brearton
This may be the first book I have read by this incredible author but it most certainly will not be my last!! What an absolutely tension packed, suspense filled page turner! An absolute must read!
What an absolutely gripping, addictive and action packed page turner!! Clear your schedules and grab your copy now!!
Wow!!!! Just flipping wow!!!! What an absolutely epic page turner!!! Well done to T.J Brearton on an absolutely incredible, mind blowing and addictive read! I have absolutely NO idea whatsoever how on Earth I have never actually got around to reading any of your books before now but I am very pleased that that silly mistake has now been rectified and I have discovered your incredible storytelling talent. You absolutely smashed it!!!!!!! I absolutely love crime, mystery, psychological and thriller books but having read so many it is getting harder and harder to find a unique storyline or one that surprises me but Brearton has managed both of these in this brilliant page turner. If you love suspense, tension and red herring packed thrillers then this, ladies and gentleman, is a must read for you!!This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions creating the perfect atmosphere for the storyline. The book cover and synopsis works perfectly with the book plot and I am most definitely looking forward to reading more books by this fantastic author. WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! What you need to do now is stop wasting your time reading this, run, do not walk and grab your copy of this gripping page turner now. You also need to clear your schedules as once you start this book you will not be able to put it down! This book is fantastically written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline. I absolutely loved the unique storyline which had me hooked from the very first page to the last. I will not say anything about the storyline as the publisher has done a fantastic job of this in the synopsis and I do not want to run the risk of giving anything away but if you want to know more then grab your copy of this gripping suspense packed thriller today and I can GUARANTEE you will not regret it!!! With a storyline absolutely RAM PACKED with drama, family, action, suspense, emotion, tension, deceit, red herrings, romance, heartache, tension, strong and realistic characters, intrigue and so so much more! Seriously people, what are you waiting for?!! Brearton's brilliantly evocative descriptions will have you feeling every emotion Lainey is from anger to fear, shock to tension!! It is one of the most unforgettable and unputdownable books I have ever read!! His brilliant storytelling and writing sucks the reader straight into the storyline with Lainey, the rest of the characters and surroundings coming to life around them. This is just one of those rare books that words just cannot express how powerful and emotional it is. When I was reading this book I could feel my heartbeat speeding up as I was getting a dark sense of foreboding the deeper into the book I got!! It is one of those books that I just simply could not put down and I walked around everywhere with my kindle reading the book everywhere I went. Every chapter ended in a way that I had to know what was going to happen next and then it would move on to the next chapter and do the same so I blew through this in one sitting of just a few hours. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with Lainey and going through her anger, pain, sadness, fear and much more. Each of the characters were perfectly written and each had their own unique and strong personalities with individual strengths, weaknesses, quirks, flaws and more. You need to clear your schedules because you will not be able to put this book down. AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ!! The characters were all very strong and realistic and Brearton's writing ensured they jumped off the pages at me. They all have their own unique personalities and I enjoyed discovering their histories as the story unravelled. Pick up your copy of this book today and meet these fantastic characters yourself. I cannot wait to read more books by this incredible author!!
Congratulations T.J. Brearton on an absolutely gripping, gritty, addictive, action packed, explosive and must read page turner!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is why I would like to welcome you to my favourite author list and here is to your next guaranteed success!!
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, action packed, addictive and explosive MUST READ!!
#TheKillerOnMyDoorstep #TJBrearton #JoffeBooks #ZooLoosBT #ZooloosBookTours #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger
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Review for ' The Killer On My Doorstep' by T.J. Brearton
This may be the first book I have read by this incredible author but it most certainly will not be my last!! What an absolutely tension packed, suspense filled page turner! An absolute must read!
What an absolutely gripping, addictive and action packed page turner!! Clear your schedules and grab your copy now!!
Wow!!!! Just flipping wow!!!! What an absolutely epic page turner!!! Well done to T.J Brearton on an absolutely incredible, mind blowing and addictive read! I have absolutely NO idea whatsoever how on Earth I have never actually got around to reading any of your books before now but I am very pleased that that silly mistake has now been rectified and I have discovered your incredible storytelling talent. You absolutely smashed it!!!!!!! I absolutely love crime, mystery, psychological and thriller books but having read so many it is getting harder and harder to find a unique storyline or one that surprises me but Brearton has managed both of these in this brilliant page turner. If you love suspense, tension and red herring packed thrillers then this, ladies and gentleman, is a must read for you!!This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions creating the perfect atmosphere for the storyline. The book cover and synopsis works perfectly with the book plot and I am most definitely looking forward to reading more books by this fantastic author. WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! What you need to do now is stop wasting your time reading this, run, do not walk and grab your copy of this gripping page turner now. You also need to clear your schedules as once you start this book you will not be able to put it down! This book is fantastically written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline. I absolutely loved the unique storyline which had me hooked from the very first page to the last. I will not say anything about the storyline as the publisher has done a fantastic job of this in the synopsis and I do not want to run the risk of giving anything away but if you want to know more then grab your copy of this gripping suspense packed thriller today and I can GUARANTEE you will not regret it!!! With a storyline absolutely RAM PACKED with drama, family, action, suspense, emotion, tension, deceit, red herrings, romance, heartache, tension, strong and realistic characters, intrigue and so so much more! Seriously people, what are you waiting for?!! Brearton's brilliantly evocative descriptions will have you feeling every emotion Lainey is from anger to fear, shock to tension!! It is one of the most unforgettable and unputdownable books I have ever read!! His brilliant storytelling and writing sucks the reader straight into the storyline with Lainey, the rest of the characters and surroundings coming to life around them. This is just one of those rare books that words just cannot express how powerful and emotional it is. When I was reading this book I could feel my heartbeat speeding up as I was getting a dark sense of foreboding the deeper into the book I got!! It is one of those books that I just simply could not put down and I walked around everywhere with my kindle reading the book everywhere I went. Every chapter ended in a way that I had to know what was going to happen next and then it would move on to the next chapter and do the same so I blew through this in one sitting of just a few hours. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with Lainey and going through her anger, pain, sadness, fear and much more. Each of the characters were perfectly written and each had their own unique and strong personalities with individual strengths, weaknesses, quirks, flaws and more. You need to clear your schedules because you will not be able to put this book down. AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ!! The characters were all very strong and realistic and Brearton's writing ensured they jumped off the pages at me. They all have their own unique personalities and I enjoyed discovering their histories as the story unravelled. Pick up your copy of this book today and meet these fantastic characters yourself. I cannot wait to read more books by this incredible author!!
Congratulations T.J. Brearton on an absolutely gripping, gritty, addictive, action packed, explosive and must read page turner!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is why I would like to welcome you to my favourite author list and here is to your next guaranteed success!!
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, action packed, addictive and explosive MUST READ!!
#TheKillerOnMyDoorstep #TJBrearton #JoffeBooks #ZooLoosBT #ZooloosBookTours #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger
@TJBrearton @JoffeBooks @ZooLoosBT @ZooloosBookTours @Goodreads @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger
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December 10, 2025
I liked this book OK but it dragged in places. Also, the timeline around when the protagonist received the books does not match the synopsis at all, and I think it was a bit misleading. The story centers on Lainey, who is trying to make friends and feels that she struggles to fit in as it relates to the small community to which she moved a couple years ago. When a string of surprise deaths occur (and THEN she receives mysterious books) she wants to get to the bottom of the mystery, but is also enjoying being the center of attention with her friend group.
The mystery in the story is OK but there were times where I thought Lainey jumped to major conclusions and they turned out to be right, and I wish that the bread crumbs would have been laid a little bit more clearly. What I really did like is her family dynamic- I felt that her relationship with her husband and kids and her concerns around decisions they made felt very realistic. There was something a little disjointed in the people that she leaned on to ask for help as she ran her own investigation on the murders, but I did enjoy seeing her connect dots as she got deeper. The unveiling of the villain was a decent twist, though some of the decisions made seemed a little extreme for the situation. I had to suspend my disbelief at the end, as some of the things Lainey did didn't really fit what I knew about her up until that point.
Overall, it was a decent read but didn't fully do it for me, both for the confusion around the synopsis and some gaps in the storyline. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The mystery in the story is OK but there were times where I thought Lainey jumped to major conclusions and they turned out to be right, and I wish that the bread crumbs would have been laid a little bit more clearly. What I really did like is her family dynamic- I felt that her relationship with her husband and kids and her concerns around decisions they made felt very realistic. There was something a little disjointed in the people that she leaned on to ask for help as she ran her own investigation on the murders, but I did enjoy seeing her connect dots as she got deeper. The unveiling of the villain was a decent twist, though some of the decisions made seemed a little extreme for the situation. I had to suspend my disbelief at the end, as some of the things Lainey did didn't really fit what I knew about her up until that point.
Overall, it was a decent read but didn't fully do it for me, both for the confusion around the synopsis and some gaps in the storyline. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
I was a beta reader for this book earlier this year and I really enjoyed it. In fact I read it in 24 hours. I’ve read quite a few of this author’s books – but this is totally different. It’s described as a domestic thriller, though I would probably call it more of a psychological thriller.
Lainey and Geoff have lived in Buxton for seven years. They are still regarded as newcomers. Geoff is a doctor, while Lainey has given up her career to look after their two children Delia and Charlotte. Charlotte is soccer mad and Lainey is one of the coaches. She is also part of a WhatsApp mom’s group, one of whom, Wendy, is married to police officer Martin.
After their next door neighbour Mrs Marvin died, her house was empty for a while until new neighbours moved in. Eric and Naomi Sheller also have two children of similar ages to Delia and Charlotte. The girls are very excited, while Lainey is just plain nosy. Eric pops over to say hello and a couple of days later Lainey and the girls take them brownies. And that’s when the mystery begins. Because isn’t Naomi the same woman who was having an ‘episode’ in the supermarket the other day? Having a daughter-in-law who is epileptic and has ‘absenses’, I assumed (wrongly) that’s what it was.
Then Naomi goes missing and Eric is the prime suspect. But that’s only the start, and at this point I just could not put the book down. Of course, because this is TJ Brearton, there are plenty of twists and turns and a surprise ending.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
Lainey and Geoff have lived in Buxton for seven years. They are still regarded as newcomers. Geoff is a doctor, while Lainey has given up her career to look after their two children Delia and Charlotte. Charlotte is soccer mad and Lainey is one of the coaches. She is also part of a WhatsApp mom’s group, one of whom, Wendy, is married to police officer Martin.
After their next door neighbour Mrs Marvin died, her house was empty for a while until new neighbours moved in. Eric and Naomi Sheller also have two children of similar ages to Delia and Charlotte. The girls are very excited, while Lainey is just plain nosy. Eric pops over to say hello and a couple of days later Lainey and the girls take them brownies. And that’s when the mystery begins. Because isn’t Naomi the same woman who was having an ‘episode’ in the supermarket the other day? Having a daughter-in-law who is epileptic and has ‘absenses’, I assumed (wrongly) that’s what it was.
Then Naomi goes missing and Eric is the prime suspect. But that’s only the start, and at this point I just could not put the book down. Of course, because this is TJ Brearton, there are plenty of twists and turns and a surprise ending.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
November 23, 2025
T.J. Brearton’s latest psychological thriller is a masterclass in domestic suspense, blending everyday unease with chilling twists. The novel opens with an unsettling gift: three mysterious books arriving on the protagonist’s doorstep, each one eerily foreshadowing real-life murders. What begins as a curious coincidence quickly spirals into a nightmare, as the second book seems to predict her own fate.
Brearton captures the claustrophobic tension of suburban life with sharp detail—the quiet woods, the fragile sense of safety, the creeping paranoia that no one else seems to share. The protagonist’s isolation is palpable: dismissed by police, doubted by her husband, yet utterly convinced that someone knows exactly where she lives.
What makes this story so gripping is its balance of pace and atmosphere. The plot races forward, but Brearton lingers just enough on the emotional beats—fear, doubt, mistrust—to make the reader feel every moment. It’s not just a whodunit; it’s a chilling exploration of how quickly the familiar can turn sinister.
Casual readers will be hooked by the addictive twists, while those who savor psychological depth will appreciate the novel’s exploration of paranoia, trust, and the fragility of domestic peace. A perfect pick for fans of Lisa Jewell or Shari Lapena, this is a thriller that keeps you turning pages long into the night.
With thanks to TJ Brearton, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Brearton captures the claustrophobic tension of suburban life with sharp detail—the quiet woods, the fragile sense of safety, the creeping paranoia that no one else seems to share. The protagonist’s isolation is palpable: dismissed by police, doubted by her husband, yet utterly convinced that someone knows exactly where she lives.
What makes this story so gripping is its balance of pace and atmosphere. The plot races forward, but Brearton lingers just enough on the emotional beats—fear, doubt, mistrust—to make the reader feel every moment. It’s not just a whodunit; it’s a chilling exploration of how quickly the familiar can turn sinister.
Casual readers will be hooked by the addictive twists, while those who savor psychological depth will appreciate the novel’s exploration of paranoia, trust, and the fragility of domestic peace. A perfect pick for fans of Lisa Jewell or Shari Lapena, this is a thriller that keeps you turning pages long into the night.
With thanks to TJ Brearton, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
January 13, 2026
Is it wrong to say that I grabbed this book based purely on that front cover?
I knew that this wouldn't be the case, but seeing that box on the doorstep, with the blood - it just reminded me of the film Seven - iykyk!!
Anyway, either way - I was pretty drawn into this storyline right from the start and knew I was going to fly through it!
When Lainey meets her new neighbours, Naomi and Eric, she was excited to get to know them - but when Naomi is found dead - her husband Eric is the prime suspect and strange things start happening - she begins to wonder whether she's also in danger!
As soon as we see Naomi react the way she did to seeing Lainey in the supermarket, I was obsessed with finding out what on earth caused her to feel so terrified.
This definitely builds a really creepy atmosphere from then on and had me on edge wondering why these strange things were happening and whether someone was following or watching Lainey and the family.
I mean, I'd have stayed well clear and not got involved - but I loved following Lainey as she pieced everything together to get to the truth of what was happening.
This was my first read by this author, but I really loved the way the writing drew me in from the start and although some elements of the plot have been done before, this still felt fresh and exciting and had me hooked until the end.
A great first read and I'm sure that I'll be looking out for more to add to my tbr soon.
I knew that this wouldn't be the case, but seeing that box on the doorstep, with the blood - it just reminded me of the film Seven - iykyk!!
Anyway, either way - I was pretty drawn into this storyline right from the start and knew I was going to fly through it!
When Lainey meets her new neighbours, Naomi and Eric, she was excited to get to know them - but when Naomi is found dead - her husband Eric is the prime suspect and strange things start happening - she begins to wonder whether she's also in danger!
As soon as we see Naomi react the way she did to seeing Lainey in the supermarket, I was obsessed with finding out what on earth caused her to feel so terrified.
This definitely builds a really creepy atmosphere from then on and had me on edge wondering why these strange things were happening and whether someone was following or watching Lainey and the family.
I mean, I'd have stayed well clear and not got involved - but I loved following Lainey as she pieced everything together to get to the truth of what was happening.
This was my first read by this author, but I really loved the way the writing drew me in from the start and although some elements of the plot have been done before, this still felt fresh and exciting and had me hooked until the end.
A great first read and I'm sure that I'll be looking out for more to add to my tbr soon.
November 18, 2025
3.5
Lainey siempre ha creído que conoce bien su vecindario hasta que la llegada de la familia Sheller altera la tranquilidad de la zona. Intentando ser amable, se ofrece a recibirlos, pero la dinámica entre ellos le provoca una incomodidad que no logra explicar. Cuando Naomi, la nueva vecina, muere en circunstancias que sacuden al pueblo, Lainey se queda con la sensación de que su intuición había intentado advertirle algo.
Poco después, tres novelas aparecen en su puerta. Al principio parecen simples envíos equivocados, pero sus tramas reflejan situaciones inquietantemente similares a los conflictos y tragedias que empiezan a rodear a las familias del lugar. Cada capítulo que Lainey lee coincide con tensiones reales entre los vecinos, y lo que parecía una coincidencia se convierte en una señal imposible de ignorar.
Decidida a entender quién está manipulando los hechos o anticipándolos, Lainey revisita conversaciones, gestos y eventos que antes consideraba insignificantes. A medida que las piezas encajan, descubre que alguien ha estado observando a su comunidad con atención obsesiva. Su investigación la obliga a cuestionar no solo a sus vecinos, sino también a las personas en quienes más confía, mientras el peligro se acerca cada vez más a su propia casa.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Lainey siempre ha creído que conoce bien su vecindario hasta que la llegada de la familia Sheller altera la tranquilidad de la zona. Intentando ser amable, se ofrece a recibirlos, pero la dinámica entre ellos le provoca una incomodidad que no logra explicar. Cuando Naomi, la nueva vecina, muere en circunstancias que sacuden al pueblo, Lainey se queda con la sensación de que su intuición había intentado advertirle algo.
Poco después, tres novelas aparecen en su puerta. Al principio parecen simples envíos equivocados, pero sus tramas reflejan situaciones inquietantemente similares a los conflictos y tragedias que empiezan a rodear a las familias del lugar. Cada capítulo que Lainey lee coincide con tensiones reales entre los vecinos, y lo que parecía una coincidencia se convierte en una señal imposible de ignorar.
Decidida a entender quién está manipulando los hechos o anticipándolos, Lainey revisita conversaciones, gestos y eventos que antes consideraba insignificantes. A medida que las piezas encajan, descubre que alguien ha estado observando a su comunidad con atención obsesiva. Su investigación la obliga a cuestionar no solo a sus vecinos, sino también a las personas en quienes más confía, mientras el peligro se acerca cada vez más a su propia casa.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy
I really liked the beginning (the scene in the supermarket), but as the story progressed, I started to feel somewhat ambivalent about the dramatic what-if scenarios and overthinking of the main character, Lainey.
She becomes fixated on her new neighbours and, when the next-door woman dies under suspicious circumstances shortly afterwards, her mind goes into overdrive.
I liked the writing style, but the lead-up to the actual plot felt too long. The story itself mainly revolves around the impact that a traumatic event can have on a close-knit community. The story is made up of five parts, and I really liked that each one ended with a real cliffhanger.
Lainey's perseverance leads her to become the subject of mockery from the community, yet she perseveres. The narrative reaches its cathartic climax as all the coincidences and fragments of the puzzle come together, weaving a tale of adultery, a troubled family history, and the aftermath of a personal tragedy.
Had the first part been shortened, I would have given it 4 stars, but in its current form, I'll stick with 3 stars.
Thank you to Joffe Books and the author for providing this review copy. 🌷
Publication date: 13 January 2026.
She becomes fixated on her new neighbours and, when the next-door woman dies under suspicious circumstances shortly afterwards, her mind goes into overdrive.
I liked the writing style, but the lead-up to the actual plot felt too long. The story itself mainly revolves around the impact that a traumatic event can have on a close-knit community. The story is made up of five parts, and I really liked that each one ended with a real cliffhanger.
Lainey's perseverance leads her to become the subject of mockery from the community, yet she perseveres. The narrative reaches its cathartic climax as all the coincidences and fragments of the puzzle come together, weaving a tale of adultery, a troubled family history, and the aftermath of a personal tragedy.
Had the first part been shortened, I would have given it 4 stars, but in its current form, I'll stick with 3 stars.
Thank you to Joffe Books and the author for providing this review copy. 🌷
Publication date: 13 January 2026.
November 24, 2025
4.5 stars
Yes, the book delivers on the premise.
It is exactly the kind of page-turner thriller I was looking for--something major was happening in every chapter and left me wanting to know more. It's hard to write much here without spoiling anything, but there were things that were genuinely surprising(and some things I saw coming!) I found the payoff satisfying and thought it tied up all the loose ends nicely. I kinda got emotional at the end.
Also, it's a minor thing, but I appreciated how realistically the author captured that tendency to worry about every little thing your kid does and how it might affect them developmentally. Then, the realization that you can't necessarily monitor them 24/7. Not a parent but I'm sure many can relate. I think the author also captured the human instinct and need to belong, and how that need can make use unreasonable at times. We've all been there.
-.5 stars cause I had a hard time keeping track of the names in the friend group and had to go back a few times. If you plan to read this, make sure you pay attention to all the characters that get introduced!
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this ARC.
Yes, the book delivers on the premise.
It is exactly the kind of page-turner thriller I was looking for--something major was happening in every chapter and left me wanting to know more. It's hard to write much here without spoiling anything, but there were things that were genuinely surprising(and some things I saw coming!) I found the payoff satisfying and thought it tied up all the loose ends nicely. I kinda got emotional at the end.
Also, it's a minor thing, but I appreciated how realistically the author captured that tendency to worry about every little thing your kid does and how it might affect them developmentally. Then, the realization that you can't necessarily monitor them 24/7. Not a parent but I'm sure many can relate. I think the author also captured the human instinct and need to belong, and how that need can make use unreasonable at times. We've all been there.
-.5 stars cause I had a hard time keeping track of the names in the friend group and had to go back a few times. If you plan to read this, make sure you pay attention to all the characters that get introduced!
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this ARC.
January 3, 2026
Thank you to Zoe at Zooloo Book Tours for having me on this book tour in exchange for an honest review.
Where do I begin with this one? If you're looking for a book with plenty of twists, lots of narrative strands and a whole load of dysfunctional relationships, this is the one for you.
I absolutely devoured this book from start to finish, thanks to the fast-paced plot and multi-dimensional characters. Lainey's determination to solve the murder of Naomi really hooked me and made the story to be really engaging. I liked how there were many false leads along the way, and how people were quick to judge and jump to conclusions as why she was so heavily involving herself. To be honest, her nosiness became her strength!
The book did begin quite slowly, which I normally struggle with, but I really enjoyed how it began slowly and then sky-rocketed into chaos! My favourite! I did like how, as soon as we as readers thought we were getting somewhere, we were told we were totally wrong - a killer for the ego but great to keep us on our toes.
The ending SHOCKED me - I could've never predicted it, which made it the cherry on top of the thriller cake.
Where do I begin with this one? If you're looking for a book with plenty of twists, lots of narrative strands and a whole load of dysfunctional relationships, this is the one for you.
I absolutely devoured this book from start to finish, thanks to the fast-paced plot and multi-dimensional characters. Lainey's determination to solve the murder of Naomi really hooked me and made the story to be really engaging. I liked how there were many false leads along the way, and how people were quick to judge and jump to conclusions as why she was so heavily involving herself. To be honest, her nosiness became her strength!
The book did begin quite slowly, which I normally struggle with, but I really enjoyed how it began slowly and then sky-rocketed into chaos! My favourite! I did like how, as soon as we as readers thought we were getting somewhere, we were told we were totally wrong - a killer for the ego but great to keep us on our toes.
The ending SHOCKED me - I could've never predicted it, which made it the cherry on top of the thriller cake.
December 4, 2025
The Killer On My Doorstep by T.J. Brearton was my first read by this author and I really enjoyed it. The premise had me intrigued, and I found the writing to be very easy to follow. I love a good domestic suspense, and this one was great.
New neighbors move in next to Lainey and her family, but something about them seems off from the start. Realizing the wife, Naomi, is someone she had a strange encounter with in the supermarket, Lainey keeps watch on them trying to determine if she needs help. When Naomi disappears, Lainey inserts herself into the investigation. When tragedy again strikes, her determination only escalates, landing herself right in the middle of a dangerous plot.
The was a fast-paced read filled with many twists and surprises. The main characters were all well developed, with attention given to the details of real family life. I loved the suburban setting. I absolutely will be checking out more titles from Brearton.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy
New neighbors move in next to Lainey and her family, but something about them seems off from the start. Realizing the wife, Naomi, is someone she had a strange encounter with in the supermarket, Lainey keeps watch on them trying to determine if she needs help. When Naomi disappears, Lainey inserts herself into the investigation. When tragedy again strikes, her determination only escalates, landing herself right in the middle of a dangerous plot.
The was a fast-paced read filled with many twists and surprises. The main characters were all well developed, with attention given to the details of real family life. I loved the suburban setting. I absolutely will be checking out more titles from Brearton.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The first encounter Elaine Barrister has with her new neighbour Naomi Scheller is a strange one to say the least. When she is introduced officially she is unable to shake off some very bad feelings. Hoping it was a miss understanding at the beginning, she decides to take them under her wing. She knows how it feels to be a new face and she knows first impressions are everything. When Eric, Naomi's husband reports her missing it starts off a chain of events. Rumours begin to circulate then some books arrive from an unknown sender. With striking similarities to whats happening in the community. The books seem to be telling the story and Elaine cannot help but dig a little deeper. This is a really great read. The more digging Elaine does the higher the stakes. The book has a great pace and there are plenty of surprises as well as some interesting characters. I found the ending perfect and the way the author brought it together is brilliant. A book I would highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story has all the neighborhood drama you could think of! From affairs to suspicious deaths to gossiping neighbors. It had an intriguing beginning that definitely drew me in. Elaine is determined to find out who is responsible for the death of her neighbor, so she conducts her own investigation! I don’t think she was prepared for what she discovered & definitely was not prepared for the consequences of sticking her nose where some would say it didn’t belong. Overall an enjoyable domestic thriller, and I will be reading more from this author. Thank you Joffe Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Publication 🗓️ : 01.13.26
Publication 🗓️ : 01.13.26
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
T.J. Brearton’s The Killer On My Doorstep is a gripping, high-tension read that hooked me from the very first page and never let go. The premise is instantly unsettling—mysterious books predicting real murders—and the execution is flawless. Every chapter ramps up the tension, making this a true just-one-more-chapter kind of thriller. The pacing is excellent, with a steady stream of twists that kept me constantly questioning who could be trusted. The atmosphere is dark and claustrophobic, perfectly capturing the fear of not being believed while danger inches closer. I loved how the story blurred the line between paranoia and reality, keeping me on edge the entire time. Fast, tense, and completely addictive, this book held my interest throughout and delivered a satisfying, shocking ride. Highly recommended for fans of psychological thrillers who love suspense that doesn’t let up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First, thank you Netgalley & Joffe Books for this ARC!
Books like this always make me feel like I should never, under any circumstances, trust my neighbours and always make sure to look my door!
First, we only have the new neighbour being murdered, and her hot husband being the main suspect. And another death happening only a few days later. But then Lainey, our FMC, receives three books. And the murders in those books sound very similar to those that have happened in her neighbourhood. And lo and behold, of course knowing those things after reading the three books suddenly makes Lainey look very suspicious. But Lainey knows she is not the killer. Just like she knows whomever had sent those books had surely very sinister motives....
Books like this always make me feel like I should never, under any circumstances, trust my neighbours and always make sure to look my door!
First, we only have the new neighbour being murdered, and her hot husband being the main suspect. And another death happening only a few days later. But then Lainey, our FMC, receives three books. And the murders in those books sound very similar to those that have happened in her neighbourhood. And lo and behold, of course knowing those things after reading the three books suddenly makes Lainey look very suspicious. But Lainey knows she is not the killer. Just like she knows whomever had sent those books had surely very sinister motives....
December 1, 2025
⭐⭐⭐
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC copy of The Killer On My Doorstep.
'There’s a package on the porch,’ my husband calls as he leaves for work. I rip open the brown paper and find three books inside. I didn’t order them.
A week ago, my new neighbor was murdered in exactly the way described in the first book.
I found the premise for this book really interesting. Who wouldn't do their own investigation if they had been sent books describing crimes which have been going on in your own town?! Full of twists and turns that I both did and did not see coming. However it is a really slow read and I struggled to keep reading this which was such a shame.
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC copy of The Killer On My Doorstep.
'There’s a package on the porch,’ my husband calls as he leaves for work. I rip open the brown paper and find three books inside. I didn’t order them.
A week ago, my new neighbor was murdered in exactly the way described in the first book.
I found the premise for this book really interesting. Who wouldn't do their own investigation if they had been sent books describing crimes which have been going on in your own town?! Full of twists and turns that I both did and did not see coming. However it is a really slow read and I struggled to keep reading this which was such a shame.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The premise for this book had me desperate to get stuck in; mystery package of books on the doorstep, describing crimes already committed and with what appears to be you, as the next victim! Unfortunately the book wasn't quite like that in reality, with the books not even becoming a factor until quite a way into the book and a slow pace that I hadn't been expecting.
The ending though, was a bolt from the blue and I never could have seen that coming, so the plot is a good one, if you don't mind a very slow pace.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
The ending though, was a bolt from the blue and I never could have seen that coming, so the plot is a good one, if you don't mind a very slow pace.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
When a strange woman in the store reacts strongly to seeing her Lainey gets a bad feeling . When she sees her & her family move into the house nextdoor, she cannot help but wonder if this is the coincidence it seems.
After 7 years in the small town Lainey still feels and is treated as an outsider , except for a close and select few soccer moms.
Strange things start to happen , the next door neighbour is murdered, then her frienss fiance dies in a suspicious car.
She finds a box with 3 books on her doostep all bearing an uncanny resemblance to the events happening.
Is it a coincidence, is she overthinking, maybe obsessing over it.
This is a must for all psychological thriller fans.
After 7 years in the small town Lainey still feels and is treated as an outsider , except for a close and select few soccer moms.
Strange things start to happen , the next door neighbour is murdered, then her frienss fiance dies in a suspicious car.
She finds a box with 3 books on her doostep all bearing an uncanny resemblance to the events happening.
Is it a coincidence, is she overthinking, maybe obsessing over it.
This is a must for all psychological thriller fans.
January 14, 2026
After a neighbor is murdered, Naomi receives three books in a box addressed to her and left on her front porch. Naomi doesn’t know who sent her the books but she knows she didn’t order them. Turns out the first book described exactly the way her neighbor was murdered. The second book has another murder in it and the victim depicted in the book feels like a description of her. The police are not taking it seriously and neither is her husband so it’s up to Naomi to find a murderer. I really enjoyed following Naomi as puts the pieces together to try to find and stop a murderer. I thank Joffe Books for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.
November 18, 2025
A very creepy twisted thriller novel perfect for dark and spooky nights! There were so many twists and turns, it gave me goosebumps the entire time. You know it's a good book when you're kept in suspense from the very beginning to the very end. I couldn't recommend this more! Definitely one of the best 5 star psychological Thrillers I've read this year.
I would love to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
I would love to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2025
This review contains spoilers.
Thank you for the opportunity to preview The killer On My Doorstep. I really enjoyed this book or really all of TJ Brearton’s work
This starts slow and introduces you to Lainey. A woman out of work with a husband who is a doctor and two small daughters.
Lainey becomes obsessed with her new neighbors. When the wife is found murdered she starts her own investigation to find out how and who killed this woman.
Lots of twists and red herrings which is what keeps you reading into the night. Very good book and glad I got to read this ARC. 4 stars
Thank you for the opportunity to preview The killer On My Doorstep. I really enjoyed this book or really all of TJ Brearton’s work
This starts slow and introduces you to Lainey. A woman out of work with a husband who is a doctor and two small daughters.
Lainey becomes obsessed with her new neighbors. When the wife is found murdered she starts her own investigation to find out how and who killed this woman.
Lots of twists and red herrings which is what keeps you reading into the night. Very good book and glad I got to read this ARC. 4 stars
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.75 rounded to 4 stars for me.
Lainey is staying at home wife to a doctor,mother to two daughter and a woman who wants to belong in this comunity.New neighbours is nice to have,but not when soon after move in Naomi Sheller, the new neighbour is found dead.Liney can't let that go as she don't believe Eric,Naomi husband killed her.Add book showing up on her doorstep,and it seems that someone don't want her to find out the truth,and keep her scared.
Will Lainey uncover the killer and survive?
It was a quick and tension filled thriller.At the beginnig I was not sure will I enjoy this book,but it got better and more complicated as I read along.I honestly would not guess the killer in this story,author did a good job to keep things confusing,and one shocking revelation after another.I'm satisfied with the ending,and adding this author to my tbr.
Thank you Joffe books publisher for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Lainey is staying at home wife to a doctor,mother to two daughter and a woman who wants to belong in this comunity.New neighbours is nice to have,but not when soon after move in Naomi Sheller, the new neighbour is found dead.Liney can't let that go as she don't believe Eric,Naomi husband killed her.Add book showing up on her doorstep,and it seems that someone don't want her to find out the truth,and keep her scared.
Will Lainey uncover the killer and survive?
It was a quick and tension filled thriller.At the beginnig I was not sure will I enjoy this book,but it got better and more complicated as I read along.I honestly would not guess the killer in this story,author did a good job to keep things confusing,and one shocking revelation after another.I'm satisfied with the ending,and adding this author to my tbr.
Thank you Joffe books publisher for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love when I don't see the end coming, and this book really served that for me. It might have started off slow, like any good psychological thriller, but as it progressed I found myself engrossed and not being able to put the book down! I think Lainey being a nosy neighbor who wanted to help solve these murders not matter if she was labeled an outcast by other moms in the neighborhood really made the book fun to read. The false leads and really not expecting the ended made this book nearly impossible to put down.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Plenty of Twists and Turns
Elaine and her husband Geoff and their two girls were quite pleased when their new neighbours moved in but things quickly deteriorate when while out running the wife of the new occupants dies and her husband is arrested. Things get even worse when someone leaves a parcel of books on Elaine's doorstep and the first seems to relate to the murder. Is someone trying to tell Elaine something or are they trying to make the police think Elaine is hiding something? There are plenty of twists and turns and the book kept me guessing.
Elaine and her husband Geoff and their two girls were quite pleased when their new neighbours moved in but things quickly deteriorate when while out running the wife of the new occupants dies and her husband is arrested. Things get even worse when someone leaves a parcel of books on Elaine's doorstep and the first seems to relate to the murder. Is someone trying to tell Elaine something or are they trying to make the police think Elaine is hiding something? There are plenty of twists and turns and the book kept me guessing.
January 13, 2026
This is my first book by this author, and it certainly will be reading more.
This is a very well written, gripping, and intense storyline and plot with strong, interesting characters.
I was captured from the start, and it kept me guessing all the way through to the unexpected ending.
At one point, I thought I'd worked this one out. Only to find I'd jumped to the wrong conclusions when along came the many twists and turns to prove me wrong.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
This is a very well written, gripping, and intense storyline and plot with strong, interesting characters.
I was captured from the start, and it kept me guessing all the way through to the unexpected ending.
At one point, I thought I'd worked this one out. Only to find I'd jumped to the wrong conclusions when along came the many twists and turns to prove me wrong.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
December 20, 2025
This book started a little slow, but I really got into it and enjoyed it immensely.
Seems there were many suspects of the murder of Lainey's neighbour.
The packages Lainey received were intriguing, the books with the same premise as the deaths that are taking place in the small town - I liked that concept.
I enjoyed the book, but others might complain that it was too slow for them.
This is the first book I have read by this author, but won't be my last.
Seems there were many suspects of the murder of Lainey's neighbour.
The packages Lainey received were intriguing, the books with the same premise as the deaths that are taking place in the small town - I liked that concept.
I enjoyed the book, but others might complain that it was too slow for them.
This is the first book I have read by this author, but won't be my last.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A mystery package of books on your doorstep! I love this concept but the books are not a gift instead maybe a warning. I could not have predicted the culprit. In fact I had the entirely wrong person and the ending was SHUT the Front Door! Unbelievable. I really enjoyed reading this thriller because I didn't see the twists coming and there are some really good ones. From the get go I was invested and I couldn't take my eyes away until the last word. A killing read!
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