What do you think?
Rate this book
The Guilty Ones
Perfect mothers. Perfect daughters. Perfect lies.
After her husband’s death, Dahlia Kincaid and her 14-year-old daughter Mia move to the exclusive lakefront community of Blackthorn Shores, Michigan, hoping for a fresh start. It feels like a miracle. Lakefront views. Immaculate homes. And a coveted spot in the elite circle of neighborhood mothers. Even Mia is welcomed by the popular girls.
For the first time, Dahlia dares to believe they’ve finally found belonging.
Then one of the girls is found dead after a neighborhood slumber party.
The police suspect murder. All eyes turn to Mia. Blood stains her clothes. Fresh scratches mark her arms. And her story keeps changing. Every new piece of evidence cuts deeper. Every lie Mia tells makes Dahlia wonder what else her daughter is hiding.
As suspicion mounts, the mothers who once embraced Dahlia turn wary and watchful. Rumors sharpen into accusations. Mia withdraws, shutting Dahlia out. Desperate to protect her, Dahlia begins her own hunt for the truth, digging into the secrets buried beneath the community’s polished façade. But every answer she uncovers brings her closer to losing both her daughter and the life she’s fought to build here.
One thing is someone in Blackthorn Shores is a killer. But as Dahlia closes in on the truth, her worst fear isn't that the killer will escape—it's that she already knows who it is.
From USA Today bestselling author Kyla Stone comes a propulsive domestic thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Shari Lapena, and Freida McFadden.
After her husband’s death, Dahlia Kincaid and her 14-year-old daughter Mia move to the exclusive lakefront community of Blackthorn Shores, Michigan, hoping for a fresh start. It feels like a miracle. Lakefront views. Immaculate homes. And a coveted spot in the elite circle of neighborhood mothers. Even Mia is welcomed by the popular girls.
For the first time, Dahlia dares to believe they’ve finally found belonging.
Then one of the girls is found dead after a neighborhood slumber party.
The police suspect murder. All eyes turn to Mia. Blood stains her clothes. Fresh scratches mark her arms. And her story keeps changing. Every new piece of evidence cuts deeper. Every lie Mia tells makes Dahlia wonder what else her daughter is hiding.
As suspicion mounts, the mothers who once embraced Dahlia turn wary and watchful. Rumors sharpen into accusations. Mia withdraws, shutting Dahlia out. Desperate to protect her, Dahlia begins her own hunt for the truth, digging into the secrets buried beneath the community’s polished façade. But every answer she uncovers brings her closer to losing both her daughter and the life she’s fought to build here.
One thing is someone in Blackthorn Shores is a killer. But as Dahlia closes in on the truth, her worst fear isn't that the killer will escape—it's that she already knows who it is.
From USA Today bestselling author Kyla Stone comes a propulsive domestic thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Shari Lapena, and Freida McFadden.
- GenresThriller
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2025
417 people are currently reading
359 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 9, 2026
Will write up a review once my internet is fixed..
Pretty little liars..secrets and lies..
This book goes to show that whatever this author writes, I will read, because this is a genre she’s not known for writing.
Like a puzzle with missing pieces which we had to put together bit by bit with very little to go on other than what this fierce mother uncovered as she strove to clear her daughter’s reputation.
Pretty little liars..secrets and lies..
This book goes to show that whatever this author writes, I will read, because this is a genre she’s not known for writing.
Like a puzzle with missing pieces which we had to put together bit by bit with very little to go on other than what this fierce mother uncovered as she strove to clear her daughter’s reputation.
February 2, 2026
As a mother to a teen daughter that turns 14 in just weeks, this is one of my worst nightmares.
I devoured this in less than 24 hours. I was constantly changing my thought on who the guilty one was. I need not expect that last chapter. Oof it was rough, but this was such a good read. I was constantly changing my mind on what I thought happened and who did it.
I love Kyla's Edge of Collapse & other apocalypse series, but this locked in that I will read anything she writes.
I devoured this in less than 24 hours. I was constantly changing my thought on who the guilty one was. I need not expect that last chapter. Oof it was rough, but this was such a good read. I was constantly changing my mind on what I thought happened and who did it.
I love Kyla's Edge of Collapse & other apocalypse series, but this locked in that I will read anything she writes.
January 28, 2026
Enjoyed the book. Kyla is very good at building up the atmosphere - who are the people, how their houses and themselves look like. It makes you to pay attention to the details and actions of the characters. However she manages very well to mislead us dipping some hints in a slow pace. She keeps the excitement up during the conversations and action scenes describing the situation during the dialogue which puts the reader into the middle of the action. The flash-backs are very well timed - you always understand why it was needed at that exact moment. I did not get the point of the last chapter initially, but it made total sense in the end.
January 29, 2026
I've read most of Kyla Stone's apocalyptic series and love them all. She writes in the thriller genre just as well.
The setting is a wealthy gated community that houses some mean girls along with some grown-up mean girls also known as their mothers. Ater losing their husband and father, Dahlia and Mia move to this community not because they are wealthy like the others but because they inherited a small cottage. They are welcomed into the community right away and are very thankful to be included in the established teen and mom cliques. After a sleepover becomes a tragedy Dahlia finds herself fighting to protect her daughter and wondering if they ever were welcomed.
A tense and twisty story that keeps you guessing until the very end. I continued to change my mind on who was to blame and didn't see the ending coming.
The setting is a wealthy gated community that houses some mean girls along with some grown-up mean girls also known as their mothers. Ater losing their husband and father, Dahlia and Mia move to this community not because they are wealthy like the others but because they inherited a small cottage. They are welcomed into the community right away and are very thankful to be included in the established teen and mom cliques. After a sleepover becomes a tragedy Dahlia finds herself fighting to protect her daughter and wondering if they ever were welcomed.
A tense and twisty story that keeps you guessing until the very end. I continued to change my mind on who was to blame and didn't see the ending coming.
February 5, 2026
Figured out the twist within 75 pages that’s a record so this gets 3 stars because I was generous
January 12, 2026
gripping read
This book has everything . Drama murder intrigue . I enjoyed it very much . Ive read Kyla Stones series of 6 books about the apocalypse, they were great . Not read any of the stand alone ones . Will def read some more .
This book has everything . Drama murder intrigue . I enjoyed it very much . Ive read Kyla Stones series of 6 books about the apocalypse, they were great . Not read any of the stand alone ones . Will def read some more .
January 22, 2026
I enjoyed this book, I thought I knew who it was…but then boom I didn’t 😂😊
January 28, 2026
The Guilty Ones: A Psychological Thriller
By: Kyla Stone
Publisher: Paper Moon Press
Published Date: December 31, 2025
ASIN: B0G28SMYVF
Page Count: 422
Triggers: bullying, teen death, grief, social-media cruelty, gaslighting, community cover-ups, murder investigation, parental desperation, psychological manipulation
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Skull Dread Rating: 💀💀
What Did I Just Walk Into?
A grieving mom and her 14-year-old daughter move to a glossy, lakefront gated community where the lawns are trimmed, the smiles are sharper than knives, and the “mom circle” membership comes with an unspoken NDA. Then a sleepover ends with a girl dead at the bottom of a cliff… and the evidence points straight at Mia. So now it’s Dahlia vs. the police, the rumor mill, and a neighborhood full of wealthy people who treat the truth like it’s optional.
Here’s What Slapped:
The vibe is teen social hierarchy colliding with polished, wealthy-neighborhood image control, and it’s deliciously tense from page one.
The teen dynamics felt painfully real: the cliques, the social media performative cruelty, the fear of becoming the next target.
Dahlia is messy in the most believable way. Not “thriller-mom with perfect instincts,” but “terrified parent making questionable choices because her kid might be in danger.”
The pacing? Absolutely feral. This book does not politely allow breaks for laundry or basic human responsibilities.
Twists that actually land. Not random for shock value, but the kind that make you backtrack mentally like, “Oh… you sneaky genius.”
What Could’ve Been Better:
If you like your characters always making calm, logical decisions, this will personally offend you. Dahlia spirals and I mean SPIRALS, but honestly? That’s kind of the point. Grief plus fear plus a community that closes ranks will turn anybody into a sleep-deprived detective with a doom soundtrack.
Perfect for Readers Who Love:
• domestic thrillers with “perfect neighborhood” rot
• stories about mothers and daughters where love is fierce, flawed, and terrifying
• secrets, lies, and rich people using money like a weapon
Sum up:
This is the kind of thriller that grabs you by the throat with a manicured glove and whispers, “Smile for the neighbors.” It’s chilling, heartbreaking, and wildly addictive, with teen social warfare that feels uncomfortably real and an ending that makes you say “OH COME ON” out loud in the best way.
Reviewed by Robin for Robin’s Review
By: Kyla Stone
Publisher: Paper Moon Press
Published Date: December 31, 2025
ASIN: B0G28SMYVF
Page Count: 422
Triggers: bullying, teen death, grief, social-media cruelty, gaslighting, community cover-ups, murder investigation, parental desperation, psychological manipulation
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Skull Dread Rating: 💀💀
What Did I Just Walk Into?
A grieving mom and her 14-year-old daughter move to a glossy, lakefront gated community where the lawns are trimmed, the smiles are sharper than knives, and the “mom circle” membership comes with an unspoken NDA. Then a sleepover ends with a girl dead at the bottom of a cliff… and the evidence points straight at Mia. So now it’s Dahlia vs. the police, the rumor mill, and a neighborhood full of wealthy people who treat the truth like it’s optional.
Here’s What Slapped:
The vibe is teen social hierarchy colliding with polished, wealthy-neighborhood image control, and it’s deliciously tense from page one.
The teen dynamics felt painfully real: the cliques, the social media performative cruelty, the fear of becoming the next target.
Dahlia is messy in the most believable way. Not “thriller-mom with perfect instincts,” but “terrified parent making questionable choices because her kid might be in danger.”
The pacing? Absolutely feral. This book does not politely allow breaks for laundry or basic human responsibilities.
Twists that actually land. Not random for shock value, but the kind that make you backtrack mentally like, “Oh… you sneaky genius.”
What Could’ve Been Better:
If you like your characters always making calm, logical decisions, this will personally offend you. Dahlia spirals and I mean SPIRALS, but honestly? That’s kind of the point. Grief plus fear plus a community that closes ranks will turn anybody into a sleep-deprived detective with a doom soundtrack.
Perfect for Readers Who Love:
• domestic thrillers with “perfect neighborhood” rot
• stories about mothers and daughters where love is fierce, flawed, and terrifying
• secrets, lies, and rich people using money like a weapon
Sum up:
This is the kind of thriller that grabs you by the throat with a manicured glove and whispers, “Smile for the neighbors.” It’s chilling, heartbreaking, and wildly addictive, with teen social warfare that feels uncomfortably real and an ending that makes you say “OH COME ON” out loud in the best way.
Reviewed by Robin for Robin’s Review
January 21, 2026
**A worthy non-apocalyptic drama**
Full disclosure: I'm a major Kyla Stone fan here, people. I've read every single one of her apocalyptic series, falling in love with literally ALL of them (despite the flaws). Each of them played their part in cementing Kyla as one of my favorite authors of end-of-the-world stories. But this? This is my first time reading an entirely other genre from Kyla, one that apparently is her first run too.
I admittedly was a little leery when I started this thing, as not all authors can pull off bringing new genres to life. But I had high hopes anyway, since I still adore Kyla's writing style and means of livening up her characters, so...what could really go wrong? It's just another sandbox, really. And as it turns out, nothing much went wrong at all.
This was most definitely a SOLID entry in the realm of thrillers. The things I was hoping for happened swimmingly: smooth writing style, good pace, personable characters, and the premise itself. My attention was immediately snagged and never wavered, and I found myself fully invested in what ACTUALLY happened and why. While I couldn't really relate to the characters (as I'm not a mother), I do think the relationships between all of them were done extremely well.
Now yes, it must be said that there were some minor complaints from me, enough that warranted a star deduction. Aside from the mild moments of predictability, I do feel that the police presence was too minimal considering the serious nature of the crime. I couldn't buy how "absent" they felt. I also felt that some characters were a wee bit too overly "cooperative" in seemingly uncomfortable situations. While I get needing to do so for the sake of exposition, it also diminished the realism.
All in all, though, there were far more praiseworthy traits in this book than not. I was never bored, always engaged, and had myself a good time learning all the revelations, including the shocking one at the very end (which was thankfully something I DIDN'T see coming). This was a great first step into an entirely new genre for Kyla Stone and I hope to see more from her to iron out the kinks! Click here for random commentary and highlights.
I've received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thanks much!
Full disclosure: I'm a major Kyla Stone fan here, people. I've read every single one of her apocalyptic series, falling in love with literally ALL of them (despite the flaws). Each of them played their part in cementing Kyla as one of my favorite authors of end-of-the-world stories. But this? This is my first time reading an entirely other genre from Kyla, one that apparently is her first run too.
I admittedly was a little leery when I started this thing, as not all authors can pull off bringing new genres to life. But I had high hopes anyway, since I still adore Kyla's writing style and means of livening up her characters, so...what could really go wrong? It's just another sandbox, really. And as it turns out, nothing much went wrong at all.
This was most definitely a SOLID entry in the realm of thrillers. The things I was hoping for happened swimmingly: smooth writing style, good pace, personable characters, and the premise itself. My attention was immediately snagged and never wavered, and I found myself fully invested in what ACTUALLY happened and why. While I couldn't really relate to the characters (as I'm not a mother), I do think the relationships between all of them were done extremely well.
Now yes, it must be said that there were some minor complaints from me, enough that warranted a star deduction. Aside from the mild moments of predictability, I do feel that the police presence was too minimal considering the serious nature of the crime. I couldn't buy how "absent" they felt. I also felt that some characters were a wee bit too overly "cooperative" in seemingly uncomfortable situations. While I get needing to do so for the sake of exposition, it also diminished the realism.
All in all, though, there were far more praiseworthy traits in this book than not. I was never bored, always engaged, and had myself a good time learning all the revelations, including the shocking one at the very end (which was thankfully something I DIDN'T see coming). This was a great first step into an entirely new genre for Kyla Stone and I hope to see more from her to iron out the kinks! Click here for random commentary and highlights.
I've received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thanks much!
February 1, 2026
This was a fabulous read that grabbed me by the throat and wouldn't let go. Set within what seems to be a perfect neighbourhood, everyone's lives are turned on their head when a small group of friends from an elite private school go for a run of the mill sleepover. When tragedy strikes and one of the girls ends up dead from a fall, the lengths the community goes to to close ranks and protect their own turns friend against friend and leads to the question: who can you really trust?
Kyla Stone had my heart pumping from page one. What should have been a relatively normal teenage gathering and right of passage leads to a thrilling, suspenseful investigation where no one is above suspicion. Dahlia has been lulled into a false sense of security. Having believed she'd finally found her place in the exclusive Blackthorn Shores, Michigan, she sets up a life for herself and her daughter, Mia. All of that changes, however, when Leah, Mia's best friend, is found at the bottom of a cliff dead and everyone seems to be pointing the finger at Dahlia's daughter. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep readers turning the pages and the author has done a marvellous job of not only creating a world you feel like you've fallen into, but one that also drags you under as the mystery leaves you guessing right up until the end. The underlying ugliness of the community and the circle of friends twists your stomach: bulling, teenage angst and the desperate need to be in control and popular, grief and gaslighting underpin the investigation, promoted and manipulated by the wealthy and privileged who both allow it to take place and then desperately try to keep their secrets hidden. Alongside that is Dahlia's desperate race to prove her daughter's innocence and protect her at all costs.
I'm a rabid fan of Kyla Stone and while this is a new genre for her, she absolutely nailed it for me. Her writing dragged me into the story, making me feel the frustration and hurt of Dahlia as she and her daughter were ostracised and played, as well her desperation for the truth. I hope the author writes more in this genre because I'm hooked.
Kyla Stone had my heart pumping from page one. What should have been a relatively normal teenage gathering and right of passage leads to a thrilling, suspenseful investigation where no one is above suspicion. Dahlia has been lulled into a false sense of security. Having believed she'd finally found her place in the exclusive Blackthorn Shores, Michigan, she sets up a life for herself and her daughter, Mia. All of that changes, however, when Leah, Mia's best friend, is found at the bottom of a cliff dead and everyone seems to be pointing the finger at Dahlia's daughter. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep readers turning the pages and the author has done a marvellous job of not only creating a world you feel like you've fallen into, but one that also drags you under as the mystery leaves you guessing right up until the end. The underlying ugliness of the community and the circle of friends twists your stomach: bulling, teenage angst and the desperate need to be in control and popular, grief and gaslighting underpin the investigation, promoted and manipulated by the wealthy and privileged who both allow it to take place and then desperately try to keep their secrets hidden. Alongside that is Dahlia's desperate race to prove her daughter's innocence and protect her at all costs.
I'm a rabid fan of Kyla Stone and while this is a new genre for her, she absolutely nailed it for me. Her writing dragged me into the story, making me feel the frustration and hurt of Dahlia as she and her daughter were ostracised and played, as well her desperation for the truth. I hope the author writes more in this genre because I'm hooked.
January 27, 2026
Gripping from the first page, this novel asks a haunting question: when tragedy strikes, how far will a wealthy community go to protect its own—no matter the cost to the truth? Fourteen-year-old Leah Cho attends what should be a harmless sleepover with classmates from an elite private school. What begins as a night of gossip, dress-up, and teenage excitement ends in horror when Leah is found dead at the base of a cliff.
As the investigation unfolds, suspicion quickly falls on her closest friend, Mia. Secrets begin to surface, exposing the dark underbelly of privilege, popularity, and cruelty among the teens—and the adults who enable it. As Mia’s mother fights desperately to prove her daughter’s innocence, the residents of the gated, affluent community band together, using their wealth and influence to silence questions and bury uncomfortable truths.
This story is equal parts chilling, heartbreaking, and impossible to put down. Anyone who has ever felt excluded, bullied by the “in crowd,” or struggled to belong in middle or high school will recognize themselves in these characters—and in the fear that keeps people from standing up for what’s right. Mia’s mother is far from perfect, but her flawed decisions ring true as those of a parent willing to do anything to protect her child.
Though this marks a departure into a new genre for the author, she handles it with confidence and skill. I truly hope she continues writing stories like this. Clear your schedule before you start—once you begin, you won’t want to stop reading.
As the investigation unfolds, suspicion quickly falls on her closest friend, Mia. Secrets begin to surface, exposing the dark underbelly of privilege, popularity, and cruelty among the teens—and the adults who enable it. As Mia’s mother fights desperately to prove her daughter’s innocence, the residents of the gated, affluent community band together, using their wealth and influence to silence questions and bury uncomfortable truths.
This story is equal parts chilling, heartbreaking, and impossible to put down. Anyone who has ever felt excluded, bullied by the “in crowd,” or struggled to belong in middle or high school will recognize themselves in these characters—and in the fear that keeps people from standing up for what’s right. Mia’s mother is far from perfect, but her flawed decisions ring true as those of a parent willing to do anything to protect her child.
Though this marks a departure into a new genre for the author, she handles it with confidence and skill. I truly hope she continues writing stories like this. Clear your schedule before you start—once you begin, you won’t want to stop reading.
January 21, 2026
Holy moly this book was addictive! I couldn't put it down. Every parent that reads this book will understand how determined Dahlia was to protect her daughter at all costs.
Set in a gated community, the residents live in their luxury houses with their high end fashion and expensive cars. Dahlia is recently widowed and struggling to make ends meet, whilst sole parenting her teenage daughter Mia. They both move into the high end gated community after inheriting an old ramshackled and doomed house from a family member, The house, like Dahlia and Mia do not fit in with the luxury and wealth of the gated community. Despite this gaping difference between Dahlia and her neighbours, the local mums and teenage daughters welcomed Dahlia and Mia into their inner friendship circle.
However, all is not as it seems and after a sleepover that turns to tradegy Dahlia finds herself fighting to protect her daughter.
There are somany twists and turns in this book and so many powerful messages. The fragility of young friendships in this modern world and a mothers ferocious protection of her child. It will certainly leave you thinking and reflecting at the end.
Kyla Stone is known for her dystopian books of which I am a massive fan. Kyla has stepped out of her comfort zone to write a psychological thriller and she has absolutely succeeded with this book and I really hope it's the first of many!
Set in a gated community, the residents live in their luxury houses with their high end fashion and expensive cars. Dahlia is recently widowed and struggling to make ends meet, whilst sole parenting her teenage daughter Mia. They both move into the high end gated community after inheriting an old ramshackled and doomed house from a family member, The house, like Dahlia and Mia do not fit in with the luxury and wealth of the gated community. Despite this gaping difference between Dahlia and her neighbours, the local mums and teenage daughters welcomed Dahlia and Mia into their inner friendship circle.
However, all is not as it seems and after a sleepover that turns to tradegy Dahlia finds herself fighting to protect her daughter.
There are somany twists and turns in this book and so many powerful messages. The fragility of young friendships in this modern world and a mothers ferocious protection of her child. It will certainly leave you thinking and reflecting at the end.
Kyla Stone is known for her dystopian books of which I am a massive fan. Kyla has stepped out of her comfort zone to write a psychological thriller and she has absolutely succeeded with this book and I really hope it's the first of many!
February 4, 2026
Kyla’s psychological thriller debut has convinced me that she can write in any genre, and not only will she write a smashing success, but I will devour anything she writes.
This book exceeded my guarded expectations. I am a well seasoned fan of Kyla’s writing, especially her Edge of Collapse and Lost Light series. It is risky for authors to jump genres, and I was nervous that this would be a transition that might not meet the same success as her other books. I am thrilled that she has completely proved me wrong.
This book was almost too real. It took me several days to finish because it had me so enthralled in Dahlia’s world that I felt like I WAS her. I felt stressed, while still being deeply invested. I had to take breaks, which is unusual for me and thrillers. Kyla kept me guessing, hitting with twists while still keeping the book realistic and possible. I didn’t see the end coming at all.
This read was a refreshing take on psychological thrillers, as many authors take things too far to feel possible, softening the effect of their plot twists and overall stories. This is not the case for Kyla; this story could very easily happen. The legal elements and other details were realistic and believable.
I will be recommending this book to everyone I know, and I cannot wait for Kyla’s next book. I am hesitant to give psychological thrillers 5 stars due to their tendency to be unbelievable, but this book gets an enthusiastic 5 stars from me!
This book exceeded my guarded expectations. I am a well seasoned fan of Kyla’s writing, especially her Edge of Collapse and Lost Light series. It is risky for authors to jump genres, and I was nervous that this would be a transition that might not meet the same success as her other books. I am thrilled that she has completely proved me wrong.
This book was almost too real. It took me several days to finish because it had me so enthralled in Dahlia’s world that I felt like I WAS her. I felt stressed, while still being deeply invested. I had to take breaks, which is unusual for me and thrillers. Kyla kept me guessing, hitting with twists while still keeping the book realistic and possible. I didn’t see the end coming at all.
This read was a refreshing take on psychological thrillers, as many authors take things too far to feel possible, softening the effect of their plot twists and overall stories. This is not the case for Kyla; this story could very easily happen. The legal elements and other details were realistic and believable.
I will be recommending this book to everyone I know, and I cannot wait for Kyla’s next book. I am hesitant to give psychological thrillers 5 stars due to their tendency to be unbelievable, but this book gets an enthusiastic 5 stars from me!
January 25, 2026
More Than a Whodunit — Deeply Human and Unforgettable
The Guilty Ones was an instant add to my TBR the moment Kyla Stone released it — she’s an auto-download author for me, and this book absolutely delivered.
I was especially excited to see her step into a new genre, and she nailed it. This story kept me on edge from start to finish, and there were moments I was so emotionally invested that I had to physically stop myself from skipping ahead to find out what really happened.
This novel is often recommended for readers who enjoy Freida McFadden, and while I’ve read a lot of Freida’s work too, where Kyla truly stands apart is in her character development. I didn’t just want to know what happened — I genuinely cared about who it was happening to. The characters felt real, layered, and deeply human, which made the tension hit that much harder.
Beyond the mystery, this book offers a sharp and unsettling look at the cruelty of social dynamics, the pressure to fit in, and the way social media can amplify fear, judgment, and groupthink. It’s gripping, emotionally charged, and incredibly well done.
Highly recommended — especially for readers who want a thriller that doesn’t just keep you guessing, but makes you feel every step of the way.
The Guilty Ones was an instant add to my TBR the moment Kyla Stone released it — she’s an auto-download author for me, and this book absolutely delivered.
I was especially excited to see her step into a new genre, and she nailed it. This story kept me on edge from start to finish, and there were moments I was so emotionally invested that I had to physically stop myself from skipping ahead to find out what really happened.
This novel is often recommended for readers who enjoy Freida McFadden, and while I’ve read a lot of Freida’s work too, where Kyla truly stands apart is in her character development. I didn’t just want to know what happened — I genuinely cared about who it was happening to. The characters felt real, layered, and deeply human, which made the tension hit that much harder.
Beyond the mystery, this book offers a sharp and unsettling look at the cruelty of social dynamics, the pressure to fit in, and the way social media can amplify fear, judgment, and groupthink. It’s gripping, emotionally charged, and incredibly well done.
Highly recommended — especially for readers who want a thriller that doesn’t just keep you guessing, but makes you feel every step of the way.
January 28, 2026
I have only read 'edge of collapse series' which is magnificent. I was offered this book as I am part of the ARC team in exchange for an honest review.
It is very different from edge of collapse as this is a psychological thriller. Not usually my bag, but it was gripping
I wouldn't want to live on that neighbourhood apart from the fact it's on the edge of a cliff, they are all superficial
A 14 year old girl has been murdered, but who did it. I did wonder in the beginning if it was one of the mothers
The question is, how far would you go to protect your daughter, and clean up her mess
I love Kyla Stone, and it was my first review on the ARC team
I want to read all of her other books
Thanks Kyla another great read
It is very different from edge of collapse as this is a psychological thriller. Not usually my bag, but it was gripping
I wouldn't want to live on that neighbourhood apart from the fact it's on the edge of a cliff, they are all superficial
A 14 year old girl has been murdered, but who did it. I did wonder in the beginning if it was one of the mothers
The question is, how far would you go to protect your daughter, and clean up her mess
I love Kyla Stone, and it was my first review on the ARC team
I want to read all of her other books
Thanks Kyla another great read
February 2, 2026
Kyla Stone never disappoints. I have read all of her previous books and was excited to read a different genre by her. At times, some of the emotional impact made me unable to read further. I had to put it aside and remove myself from the story's trauma. Only a great writer could evoke such empathy.
The story itself, the relationships between mothers and daughters, were so real. Fourteen year old girls are caught between childhood and adulthood. In the end, though, we all need our moms.
The descriptions, too, are enthralling. The lake at sunset, the grand homes, the street they lived on are so well written, you feel like you are there with them.
I highly recommend this thriller of a book. Thank you, Kyla Stone, for sharing your gift of creativity and talent.
The story itself, the relationships between mothers and daughters, were so real. Fourteen year old girls are caught between childhood and adulthood. In the end, though, we all need our moms.
The descriptions, too, are enthralling. The lake at sunset, the grand homes, the street they lived on are so well written, you feel like you are there with them.
I highly recommend this thriller of a book. Thank you, Kyla Stone, for sharing your gift of creativity and talent.
January 22, 2026
Such vivid descriptions of fear and pain and loss.
Kept me guessing and the minute I thought I had it figured out, another bomb was dropped.
How far will the wealthy and privileged go to maintain the "perfect" facade...very far.
I went through so many emotions. Excitement, fear, anguish and sadness. I've often heard that kids can be cruel, but privileged teenage girls..
I hate that Mia will spend the rest of her life carrying the weight of her only real friend's death.
This was a pleasant deviation from the post apocalyptic fiction I know and love from Kyla, but she did not disappoint.
I'm a book reviewer for this book.
Kept me guessing and the minute I thought I had it figured out, another bomb was dropped.
How far will the wealthy and privileged go to maintain the "perfect" facade...very far.
I went through so many emotions. Excitement, fear, anguish and sadness. I've often heard that kids can be cruel, but privileged teenage girls..
I hate that Mia will spend the rest of her life carrying the weight of her only real friend's death.
This was a pleasant deviation from the post apocalyptic fiction I know and love from Kyla, but she did not disappoint.
I'm a book reviewer for this book.
January 29, 2026
A chillingly intense read, this book pushes you through a labyrinth of desperation and suspense while Dahlia’s world is pulled from under her, sinking her into a frantic struggle to find the truth, even if it reveals an ugliness inside her own daughter that she isn’t ready to face. Hauntingly realistic struggles and fears stemming from online bullying, mob reactions and modern ideals of beauty and power have you pinballing around a narrative that is perfectly written to keep you guessing at every page turn. Not to mention the disgustingly excellent plot twist that will likely leave me reeling for days.
January 8, 2026
The Guilty Ones
I just finished the 7 book series Ed of Collapse by the author. The series was addictive, I couldn’t wait to read the next book. Because of that I wanted to read another of her books, the stand alone novel “The Guilty Ones”. Again the story drew me in from the first page. My only criticism is my difficulty figuring out the characters. There were daughters, their mothers and their last names, some husbands. I had Togo back several times to help me figure out who was who. I really liked the book and love Kyla’s writing story.
I just finished the 7 book series Ed of Collapse by the author. The series was addictive, I couldn’t wait to read the next book. Because of that I wanted to read another of her books, the stand alone novel “The Guilty Ones”. Again the story drew me in from the first page. My only criticism is my difficulty figuring out the characters. There were daughters, their mothers and their last names, some husbands. I had Togo back several times to help me figure out who was who. I really liked the book and love Kyla’s writing story.
January 19, 2026
I loved how the entire time I was unsure of absolutely everything! I half hoped for the final twist, but it was so gratifying but heartbreaking at the same time!
Kyla’s other books have a tendency to make me feel unsafe for the characters, and I feel like this was a slightly more light anxiety riddled journey. As opposed to her post apocalyptic books.
Highly recommend, just be prepared for how much your own teenaged awkwardness will come to mind, as well as struggles to feel like you fit in as a mom trying to have a village.
Kyla’s other books have a tendency to make me feel unsafe for the characters, and I feel like this was a slightly more light anxiety riddled journey. As opposed to her post apocalyptic books.
Highly recommend, just be prepared for how much your own teenaged awkwardness will come to mind, as well as struggles to feel like you fit in as a mom trying to have a village.
January 28, 2026
I've been reading Kyla Stone's post apocalyptic books for years, I was so excited to find out about this amazing psychological thriller by her. As usual the characters are well written and the story was very engaging, I had a hard time putting it down. Dahlia and Mia have been through a rough time with only each other for support. Now they have to deal with the death of Mia's best friend during a sleepover and the suspension surrounding her death. There are lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end. I can't recommend this book enough!
January 21, 2026
This is a book that is very parent's nightmare. Dahila and her daughter have moved to a new town in a gated community after her husband's death. When her daughter goes to a slumber party things go terribly wrong. Lots of twists and turns, a mother trying to protect her daughter. I kept trying to figure out who done it and then that ending Oh my gosh! You have to read this book by Kyla it's different than she usually writes but it's worth a try.
January 27, 2026
Kyla Stone is one of my favorite authors and it’s a privilege to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’d give this five stars if I were the same age as the young women in this murder mystery. It’s also about their moms, but the intensity level would absolutely suit younger readers. That’s a kudos to Kyla, because there are books marketed as YA fiction that shouldn’t be, due to mature content. In that respect, this is a safe read for girls and grandmas.
January 30, 2026
Excellent!
I recently discovered Kyla stone through her Edge of Collapse series, not my usual genre but easily in my top 5 favorite books/series. My typical genre is psychological thrillers so I was very excited to read this one. It did not dissapoint. I read it from cover to cover in 1 day, character development, storyline, and a not easily predicted ending made this an incredibly great book, I highly recommend it.
Jessica G.
I recently discovered Kyla stone through her Edge of Collapse series, not my usual genre but easily in my top 5 favorite books/series. My typical genre is psychological thrillers so I was very excited to read this one. It did not dissapoint. I read it from cover to cover in 1 day, character development, storyline, and a not easily predicted ending made this an incredibly great book, I highly recommend it.
Jessica G.
January 26, 2026
WOW Great Read
When moving to a new area making friends is a hard thing. Girls can be awful and mean. This story pins it down. Adults can be even meaner! Social media amplifies everything. Kyla really did a great job of casting the horrors and isolation that all this can cause. The characters are vivid and draw you in. Give it a read.
When moving to a new area making friends is a hard thing. Girls can be awful and mean. This story pins it down. Adults can be even meaner! Social media amplifies everything. Kyla really did a great job of casting the horrors and isolation that all this can cause. The characters are vivid and draw you in. Give it a read.
January 26, 2026
This was a totally compelling read. Hard to put down at times. Just when i thought i know who the guilty person is next chapter threw me again and again. Different kind of book from Kyla but as someone who is an avid fan and reader of her books this one is up there with the others. For any parent it’s a must read. You will not be expecting what happens in the last chapter
January 31, 2026
The Best Thriller!
I can't even put into words how gripping this story was. I was literally riding the edge of my seat the entire time! Late nights refusing to sleep because I just need to know what would happen next. Kyla Stone was made to write psychological thrillers! I love all of her other books, but this one blew me out of the water.
I can't even put into words how gripping this story was. I was literally riding the edge of my seat the entire time! Late nights refusing to sleep because I just need to know what would happen next. Kyla Stone was made to write psychological thrillers! I love all of her other books, but this one blew me out of the water.
February 1, 2026
Absolutely Brilliant
I found Kyla Stone in the post apocalyptic genre and have loved her work ever since, so discovering she’s written a psychological thriller I was ecstatic because it aligns so well.
And I was not disappointed with The Guilty Ones. The character development, the world building, the suspense of the story were all extremely well done.
Highly recommend.
I found Kyla Stone in the post apocalyptic genre and have loved her work ever since, so discovering she’s written a psychological thriller I was ecstatic because it aligns so well.
And I was not disappointed with The Guilty Ones. The character development, the world building, the suspense of the story were all extremely well done.
Highly recommend.
February 1, 2026
Really great book! I would have given it five stars except for two things: It was a bit slow in the beginning, and I figured out the whodunnit about halfway through.
That said, I enjoyed Dahlia and found her desperation to do the right thing, even if it meant her own daughter had to face the consequences of her actions, refreshing. I enjoyed Camille's character, too.
That said, I enjoyed Dahlia and found her desperation to do the right thing, even if it meant her own daughter had to face the consequences of her actions, refreshing. I enjoyed Camille's character, too.
February 3, 2026
Excellent read! Kyla weaves descriptive details with captivating characters and a solid storyline. Kept me guessing the whole way through. As a mother, Dahlia’s desperation to get every detail and find the truth to save her daughter is palpable! Still did not know the killer til they were revealed! Excellent story-weaving!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews