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You'll Never Know: A Thriller
They took his wife. They took his unborn child. He only has hours to find them … or they’re dead.
Grant Wilson has never been happier. He has a wife he loves, a home in the country, and a brand-new baby on the way. But all of that shatters when two masked men abduct his wife, Avery, in broad daylight.
The instructions Grant receives are If he wants Avery back, he must solve a series of riddles that arrive one after another—and the clock is ticking.
With every piece of the puzzle more outrageous and complex than the last, Grant knows he’s playing a dangerous game. But he’s determined to do whatever it takes to save Avery’s life … even if it kills him.
Grant Wilson has never been happier. He has a wife he loves, a home in the country, and a brand-new baby on the way. But all of that shatters when two masked men abduct his wife, Avery, in broad daylight.
The instructions Grant receives are If he wants Avery back, he must solve a series of riddles that arrive one after another—and the clock is ticking.
With every piece of the puzzle more outrageous and complex than the last, Grant knows he’s playing a dangerous game. But he’s determined to do whatever it takes to save Avery’s life … even if it kills him.
345 pages, Paperback
First published November 18, 2025
3131 people are currently reading
43608 people want to read
About the author
Caleb Stephens
24 books761 followersCaleb Stephens is an award-winning thriller author based in Denver, Colorado. He's the author of the psychological thrillers You'll Never Know, If You Lie, and The Girls in the Cabin, and a two-time Colorado Book Award finalist. When he's not writing, Caleb enjoys spending time with his family and his dog, Bodhi — ideally while drinking a strong cup of coffee.
To learn more about his work and grab a free story, check out his website www.calebstephensauthor.com, and follow him on TikTok and Instagram @calebstephensauthor.
To learn more about his work and grab a free story, check out his website www.calebstephensauthor.com, and follow him on TikTok and Instagram @calebstephensauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,755 reviews
November 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Well that was a wild ride from start to finish! Really enjoyed this one and the audiobook was excellent.🎧 This was my first book by this author but it definitely it won’t be my last!
Well that was a wild ride from start to finish! Really enjoyed this one and the audiobook was excellent.🎧 This was my first book by this author but it definitely it won’t be my last!
![Profile Image for Salma [HIATUS].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1762154839i%2F63142765._UX200_CR0%2C77%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 7, 2026
⤿ rating: 2 stars
⤿ age: 16+
⤿ spice: none
₊· ͟͟͞͞➳ Review contains a trigger warning
══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══╡ Overview: ╞══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══
My first read of the year was, sadly, a fail. I was so confused at the beginning that it made me invested in the story. The multiple POVs were making me feel lost, but once the plot twist hit, everything fell into place. The plot twist was shocking; it made my jaw drop.
However, after a great start, the book lost momentum after the plot twist, which occurred almost halfway through, leading me to lose interest. Had the plot twist happened later, I would have rated this higher. I was actually enjoying the book, but that was my breaking point—it also got repetitive.
You can clearly tell that this book was written by a man by the level of misogyny in this book. The misogyny is there for a reason, and it does get mentioned more than once, but it did piss me off. 😂 I usually let bad writing in thrillers slide, because I don't expect them to be well-written. Some quotes, however, were just weird to read. I sadly only annotated two quotes, so these will have to do.
Reed groaned. Girl. Like the brunette was an eighth grader instead of a woman pushing thirty.
He'd cried for a week after the abortion, actually fucking cried, breaking into tears like some sad-sack little bitch at inopportune moments until he finally got it together
══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══╡ Characters: ╞══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══
જ⁀➴ Reed: When you read about a man written by a man, this is what you get: a misogynistic bitch. I hated his guts.
જ⁀➴ Avery: I really don't know how I feel about her. I support her actions, though.
── .✦ 𝓕𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼: Overall, this started so well, and I was invested, but then it went downhill after the plot twist. I do think it helped with my slump now, so we'll see. 😂 Thanks, Youssra, for recommending it to me. 🫶🏻
୨୧ ──────── ୨୧ ──────── ୨୧
*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺ Pre-read: ༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚
Recommended by the lovely Youssra. 🫶🏻 I just came back from travels yesterday, and my mind is so dead. Let’s hope this read fixes it 😂😭 I hope my first read of the year is a success!
⤿ age: 16+
⤿ spice: none
₊· ͟͟͞͞➳ Review contains a trigger warning
══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══╡ Overview: ╞══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══
My first read of the year was, sadly, a fail. I was so confused at the beginning that it made me invested in the story. The multiple POVs were making me feel lost, but once the plot twist hit, everything fell into place. The plot twist was shocking; it made my jaw drop.
However, after a great start, the book lost momentum after the plot twist, which occurred almost halfway through, leading me to lose interest. Had the plot twist happened later, I would have rated this higher. I was actually enjoying the book, but that was my breaking point—it also got repetitive.
You can clearly tell that this book was written by a man by the level of misogyny in this book. The misogyny is there for a reason, and it does get mentioned more than once, but it did piss me off. 😂 I usually let bad writing in thrillers slide, because I don't expect them to be well-written. Some quotes, however, were just weird to read. I sadly only annotated two quotes, so these will have to do.
Reed groaned. Girl. Like the brunette was an eighth grader instead of a woman pushing thirty.
He'd cried for a week after the abortion, actually fucking cried, breaking into tears like some sad-sack little bitch at inopportune moments until he finally got it together
══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══╡ Characters: ╞══⋆⋅☆⋅⋆══
જ⁀➴ Reed: When you read about a man written by a man, this is what you get: a misogynistic bitch. I hated his guts.
જ⁀➴ Avery: I really don't know how I feel about her. I support her actions, though.
── .✦ 𝓕𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼: Overall, this started so well, and I was invested, but then it went downhill after the plot twist. I do think it helped with my slump now, so we'll see. 😂 Thanks, Youssra, for recommending it to me. 🫶🏻
୨୧ ──────── ୨୧ ──────── ୨୧
*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺ Pre-read: ༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚
Recommended by the lovely Youssra. 🫶🏻 I just came back from travels yesterday, and my mind is so dead. Let’s hope this read fixes it 😂😭 I hope my first read of the year is a success!
December 28, 2025
My sister is safe😌
This was very fast-paced, and fun! Kinda over the top with the plot but in a good way. I did manage to guess the twist, but it didn't dull the enjoyment!
If you're in a slump, this would definitely help!
_________________________________________
Rec from my sister. She will be unsistered if it flops 🤺
This was very fast-paced, and fun! Kinda over the top with the plot but in a good way. I did manage to guess the twist, but it didn't dull the enjoyment!
If you're in a slump, this would definitely help!
_________________________________________
Rec from my sister. She will be unsistered if it flops 🤺
November 18, 2025
Finally, Grant Wilson has found true happiness with his beautiful wife Avery and now a child on the way. It’s all he’s ever wanted. But a day hike turns into a nightmare when his wife is abducted right in front of him, and Grant must jump though one hoop after another to save her.
Who is behind the kidnapping? And why?
Told from multiple POVs and timelines, you’ll need to pay close attention because there are numerous moving pieces. The author delivers on a high octane thriller with unrelenting suspense.
I listened to the audio and thought the multiple Narrators really added real color to the telling of the story.
This was my first book I’ve read/ listened to by this author and I’m already taking a hard look at some of his previous works.
✍️ Caleb Stephens
🎤Multiple narrators Danny Montooth, Brittany Pressley, Adam Verner
⏳9 hours 37 min
🗓️Now Available
📈 4/5🌟🌟🌟🌟
👉 Thriller
Thank you to libro.fm and Simon Maverick
Who is behind the kidnapping? And why?
Told from multiple POVs and timelines, you’ll need to pay close attention because there are numerous moving pieces. The author delivers on a high octane thriller with unrelenting suspense.
I listened to the audio and thought the multiple Narrators really added real color to the telling of the story.
This was my first book I’ve read/ listened to by this author and I’m already taking a hard look at some of his previous works.
✍️ Caleb Stephens
🎤Multiple narrators Danny Montooth, Brittany Pressley, Adam Verner
⏳9 hours 37 min
🗓️Now Available
📈 4/5🌟🌟🌟🌟
👉 Thriller
Thank you to libro.fm and Simon Maverick
December 10, 2025
GASP! An unforgettable tale full of plot-shifting twists and believable characters, You’ll Never Know had me glued to the pages from the very first chapter. A well-layered storyline that kept me guessing from page one, it provided a wild rollercoaster ride of taut, adrenaline-fueled action as well as plenty of profoundly moving emotion. You see, it deftly explored thought-provoking themes such at grief, trauma, and justice in a way that had me pondering each of the characters’ actions long after I finished reading. Through multiple compelling POVs and two puzzle-like plot lines, this deep dive into revenge was everything I love in a psychological thriller. After all, from the heart-pounding start to the high-stakes climax and perfectly wrapped-up conclusion, this edge-of-your-seat read delivered in spades for this thriller lover.
All said and done, despite the fact that I had to suspend my disbelief here and there, the cat-and-mouse antics, intricate plotting, and deliciously complex personas made this book sing. What made me an instant fan, though, were the “WTF?!” twists. Shocking in the extreme, I literally dropped my book when it all came together. And let me tell you, it’s not often that I find a book that completely evades my armchair sleuthing abilities, but this author managed to do it over and over. Not only that, but the slight Hitchcockian feel had me holding my breath from beginning to end. Dark, twisted, but also oh so satisfying, only the bonus epilogue made my grin bigger. You see, it left it open to a possible sequel and there’s nothing I love better than a continuing saga. Please say that it’s so, Mr. Stephens?! I’m begging and pleading! Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Grant Wilson has never been happier. He has a wife he loves, a home in the country, and a brand-new baby on the way. But all of that shatters when two masked men abduct his wife, Avery, in broad daylight.
The instructions Grant receives are bizarre: If he wants Avery back, he must solve a series of riddles that arrive one after another—and the clock is ticking.
With every piece of the puzzle more outrageous and complex than the last, Grant knows he’s playing a dangerous game. But he’s determined to do whatever it takes to save Avery’s life…even if it kills him.
Thank you Caleb Stephens for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: November 18, 2025
Content warning: gun violence, violence, kidnapping, domestic violence, fatal car accident, death of a child/spouse, suicide, gaslighting, mention of: autism, heart attack, abortion, genetic disease
All said and done, despite the fact that I had to suspend my disbelief here and there, the cat-and-mouse antics, intricate plotting, and deliciously complex personas made this book sing. What made me an instant fan, though, were the “WTF?!” twists. Shocking in the extreme, I literally dropped my book when it all came together. And let me tell you, it’s not often that I find a book that completely evades my armchair sleuthing abilities, but this author managed to do it over and over. Not only that, but the slight Hitchcockian feel had me holding my breath from beginning to end. Dark, twisted, but also oh so satisfying, only the bonus epilogue made my grin bigger. You see, it left it open to a possible sequel and there’s nothing I love better than a continuing saga. Please say that it’s so, Mr. Stephens?! I’m begging and pleading! Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Grant Wilson has never been happier. He has a wife he loves, a home in the country, and a brand-new baby on the way. But all of that shatters when two masked men abduct his wife, Avery, in broad daylight.
The instructions Grant receives are bizarre: If he wants Avery back, he must solve a series of riddles that arrive one after another—and the clock is ticking.
With every piece of the puzzle more outrageous and complex than the last, Grant knows he’s playing a dangerous game. But he’s determined to do whatever it takes to save Avery’s life…even if it kills him.
Thank you Caleb Stephens for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: November 18, 2025
Content warning: gun violence, violence, kidnapping, domestic violence, fatal car accident, death of a child/spouse, suicide, gaslighting, mention of: autism, heart attack, abortion, genetic disease
December 15, 2025
Actually, 4.5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a roller coaster ride! This one hooked me from the first page!
When Grant Wilson’s wife, and unborn child are abducted, he’s up against the clock to find them or they’ll be dead.
I think this one will be one of my favorite thrillers that I’ve read this year. It was super original with excellent writing and character development. The suspense was nonstop and the twists – one in particular – made me drop my Kindle in shocking surprise! There is not one person who can be trusted. Not one.
At first, it was kind of all over the place, but once everything came together… Wow! Stephens is a hell of a storyteller! This was my first by him, but definitely won’t be my last.
What a roller coaster ride! This one hooked me from the first page!
When Grant Wilson’s wife, and unborn child are abducted, he’s up against the clock to find them or they’ll be dead.
I think this one will be one of my favorite thrillers that I’ve read this year. It was super original with excellent writing and character development. The suspense was nonstop and the twists – one in particular – made me drop my Kindle in shocking surprise! There is not one person who can be trusted. Not one.
At first, it was kind of all over the place, but once everything came together… Wow! Stephens is a hell of a storyteller! This was my first by him, but definitely won’t be my last.
November 25, 2025
A happily married pregnant wife is abducted in broad daylight.
After her husband agrees to pay a ridiculously high ransom, will she be returned?
Yes, the premise of this high-stakes, race-against-time thriller was ultra-compelling.
Unfortunately, after a strong start, the book's execution fell short of its potential.
The last half of the book was replete with excessive melodrama and repetitive internal dialogues.
Emotional beats felt overplayed, significantly slowing pacing and detracting from the suspense.
The twists and the final reveals were eye-rolling and contrived, requiring a huge suspension of disbelief.
I listened to the audiobook, expertly narrated by Danny Montooth, Brittany Pressley, and Adam Verner.
At times, Brittany Pressley's narration was whiny, but the full cast audiobook elevated the listening experience.
2 stars, rounded up.
October 23, 2025
I am BREATHLESS… round of applause for Caleb on this one!! The twists, twist HARD!! I’m giving you bare bones on the plot summary here because any additional information would be a disservice to you as the reader.
Grant and Avery are in love and expecting their first child together. Life couldn’t be better… until Avery is violently abducted and Grant is forced to play a twisted game to get her back. Someone knows them, and wants something they have… and for Grant… time is running out!
Set a day aside for this one because you will not want to stop reading this!
While you’re at it… if you’re so inclined, donate to the MLD foundation, or learn more about the disease. It plays a large role in the story and I think it deserves more attention.
https://mld.foundation/donate/
Grant and Avery are in love and expecting their first child together. Life couldn’t be better… until Avery is violently abducted and Grant is forced to play a twisted game to get her back. Someone knows them, and wants something they have… and for Grant… time is running out!
Set a day aside for this one because you will not want to stop reading this!
While you’re at it… if you’re so inclined, donate to the MLD foundation, or learn more about the disease. It plays a large role in the story and I think it deserves more attention.
https://mld.foundation/donate/
November 29, 2025
the setup…
Grant and Avery Wilson decide to go hiking in a remote but beautiful location near Durango, Colorado. Before they leave the car, she surprises him with the news she’s pregnant. He’s the happiest, most content he’s ever been…until all hell breaks loose. As they get out of the car, a van with armed mask men approach and abduct Avery. He’s ordered to go home and wait for instructions. And this begins a confounding and horrible game to get his wife back.
the heart of the story…
Whoa! I thought I knew what was going on and then enters what feels like a subplot. I just focused on keeping up as this thing took some wild, crazy and twisty turns. It was like navigating on a dark, lonely cliffside road without directions.
the narration…
I highly recommend listening to this one because the performances by Danny Montooth, Brittany Pressley and Adam Verner made this even more thrilling. They were masterful in their storytelling and characterizations.
the bottom line…
I have a new favorite author because this was some high level plotting and storytelling. I gave up trying to solve the mysteries and just focused on paying attention, hanging on for dear life. I loved everything about the story, especially the creative conclusion. Now, onto the Stephens backlist. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Libro.fm and Simon Maverick for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Grant and Avery Wilson decide to go hiking in a remote but beautiful location near Durango, Colorado. Before they leave the car, she surprises him with the news she’s pregnant. He’s the happiest, most content he’s ever been…until all hell breaks loose. As they get out of the car, a van with armed mask men approach and abduct Avery. He’s ordered to go home and wait for instructions. And this begins a confounding and horrible game to get his wife back.
the heart of the story…
Whoa! I thought I knew what was going on and then enters what feels like a subplot. I just focused on keeping up as this thing took some wild, crazy and twisty turns. It was like navigating on a dark, lonely cliffside road without directions.
the narration…
I highly recommend listening to this one because the performances by Danny Montooth, Brittany Pressley and Adam Verner made this even more thrilling. They were masterful in their storytelling and characterizations.
the bottom line…
I have a new favorite author because this was some high level plotting and storytelling. I gave up trying to solve the mysteries and just focused on paying attention, hanging on for dear life. I loved everything about the story, especially the creative conclusion. Now, onto the Stephens backlist. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Libro.fm and Simon Maverick for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
November 21, 2025
FIVE STAR STUNNER ALERT!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Grant is forced to solve riddles and race around town in an attempt to save his wife and unborn child with time quickly running out. Through multiple POVs and dual timelines other characters emerge with stories that are as fascinating as they are heartbreaking. Stephens doesn’t just pull you in for a taut roller coaster ride, he zeroes in on the human condition while you’re hanging on for dear life! Themes of grief, trauma, trust, revenge, justice and love are examined with precision and depth. My emotions ran the gamut from anger and disgust to empathy and pity. Who are these other people and how does it all fit together? You’ll have to read to find out!
I did a combo read with the audiobook and all the narrators were utter perfection! The nuances of emotions from each of them elevated Stephens’ intense evocative storytelling. I can’t go into specifics without spoilers and it’s best to go in as blind as possible. That said, Danny Montooth, Brittany Pressley and Adam Verner were all spectacular and I’ll be on the lookout for more titles from all of them. Definitely pair the audiobook if you like combo reads or if you’re an audiobook person, this one is a MUST!
Ooooo weeeee Caleb Stephens has done it AGAIN. YOU’LL NEVER KNOW is a brilliantly layered and engaging twisty thriller you can’t put down! Hold on to your hats and your hearts my friends; this race against time will have you flying through pages to a poetically perfect conclusion. If you enjoy a taut game of cat-and-mouse and high emotional stakes with complex characters full of inner conflict, you need to read this NOW!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Grant is forced to solve riddles and race around town in an attempt to save his wife and unborn child with time quickly running out. Through multiple POVs and dual timelines other characters emerge with stories that are as fascinating as they are heartbreaking. Stephens doesn’t just pull you in for a taut roller coaster ride, he zeroes in on the human condition while you’re hanging on for dear life! Themes of grief, trauma, trust, revenge, justice and love are examined with precision and depth. My emotions ran the gamut from anger and disgust to empathy and pity. Who are these other people and how does it all fit together? You’ll have to read to find out!
I did a combo read with the audiobook and all the narrators were utter perfection! The nuances of emotions from each of them elevated Stephens’ intense evocative storytelling. I can’t go into specifics without spoilers and it’s best to go in as blind as possible. That said, Danny Montooth, Brittany Pressley and Adam Verner were all spectacular and I’ll be on the lookout for more titles from all of them. Definitely pair the audiobook if you like combo reads or if you’re an audiobook person, this one is a MUST!
Ooooo weeeee Caleb Stephens has done it AGAIN. YOU’LL NEVER KNOW is a brilliantly layered and engaging twisty thriller you can’t put down! Hold on to your hats and your hearts my friends; this race against time will have you flying through pages to a poetically perfect conclusion. If you enjoy a taut game of cat-and-mouse and high emotional stakes with complex characters full of inner conflict, you need to read this NOW!
November 7, 2025
This is my favorite thriller I've read this year, and here's why:
1. Action from chapter one and it doesn't let up.
2. A twist so big about 20% into the book, you wonder how in the world he's going to fill another 80% and make it interesting, but he nails it.
3. Violent, but nothing too triggering (for me, based on your own triggers maybe ask someone before you start)
4. A nice ending with everything wrapped up in a satisfying conclusion.
I said this in my TikTok review and I'll say it again: I really think within 2ish years, Caleb Stephens will be a household thriller name. He is so incredibly talented.
1. Action from chapter one and it doesn't let up.
2. A twist so big about 20% into the book, you wonder how in the world he's going to fill another 80% and make it interesting, but he nails it.
3. Violent, but nothing too triggering (for me, based on your own triggers maybe ask someone before you start)
4. A nice ending with everything wrapped up in a satisfying conclusion.
I said this in my TikTok review and I'll say it again: I really think within 2ish years, Caleb Stephens will be a household thriller name. He is so incredibly talented.
November 6, 2025
4.5 stars - so fast paced, high stakes, and so entertaining
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTMsdDstB/
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTMsdDstB/
January 11, 2026
I’ve never read any of this author’s books before, but this one had me hooked from the very beginning. I love a book that turns me into the shocked emoji personified, and thrillers are fast becoming one of my favourite genres. This was a great one because it was so gripping, and everything was tied up in a neat little bow by the end.
November 18, 2025
This was one of the more heart pounding thrillers I’ve read in awhile. It kicked off with a bang (my jaw was already dropped by page 44) and I was gripped until the end. It had multiple twists and tons of high stakes action. Caleb Stephens also did a great job weaving so much emotion into this story. I really enjoyed it and definitely recommend you pick it up!
December 14, 2025
“You’ll Never Know” is one of those rare thrillers that hits hard emotionally while never letting up on tension. This is a high-stakes, fast-paced story where every chapter feels urgent, and where the danger isn’t just physical, but deeply emotional.
At the center of the book is Ethan, whose pregnant wife Mara is kidnapped and forced into a terrifying game built on riddles, time limits, and impossible choices. Watching Ethan unravel each clue while racing against the clock is gripping, but what makes it devastating is the love driving him forward; the knowledge that every wrong step could cost him his wife and their unborn child.
Running parallel to this is the story of Lena, a woman already shattered by loss. Having lost both her husband and son, she exists in a fragile space between survival and surrender. Her grief is portrayed with brutal honesty, and her chapters are some of the most emotionally raw moments in the book. By around 30–40%, I had to pause; the weight of her pain and the cruelty of what she’s endured hit far harder than I expected.
The pacing never slows. Every revelation raises the stakes, every answer leads to another unbearable question. Stephens balances the puzzle-driven thriller elements with moments of quiet devastation that linger long after you read them.
What truly elevates this book is its emotional honesty. The fear, the desperation, the love, the grief, none of it feels manufactured. It feels lived in.
The quotes below stayed with me after I finished the book:
“I don’t want to die. I just don’t know how to keep living.”
“A mother doesn’t stop being a mother just because the world took her child.”
“Every riddle feels like another way to watch her suffer.”
“They took her… and left me with hope as a punishment.”
“I was supposed to protect them. I failed.”
“A mother shouldn’t have to imagine a future without her child.”
“I stood on the edge and realized no one would notice if I jumped.”
“I keep breathing, but I don’t feel alive anymore.”
“I would trade my life for one more second with him.”
Overall, “You’ll Never Know” is not just a thriller; it’s a story about love under unbearable pressure and grief that refuses to be tidy. Emotional, relentless, and devastating in the best way.
At the center of the book is Ethan, whose pregnant wife Mara is kidnapped and forced into a terrifying game built on riddles, time limits, and impossible choices. Watching Ethan unravel each clue while racing against the clock is gripping, but what makes it devastating is the love driving him forward; the knowledge that every wrong step could cost him his wife and their unborn child.
Running parallel to this is the story of Lena, a woman already shattered by loss. Having lost both her husband and son, she exists in a fragile space between survival and surrender. Her grief is portrayed with brutal honesty, and her chapters are some of the most emotionally raw moments in the book. By around 30–40%, I had to pause; the weight of her pain and the cruelty of what she’s endured hit far harder than I expected.
The pacing never slows. Every revelation raises the stakes, every answer leads to another unbearable question. Stephens balances the puzzle-driven thriller elements with moments of quiet devastation that linger long after you read them.
What truly elevates this book is its emotional honesty. The fear, the desperation, the love, the grief, none of it feels manufactured. It feels lived in.
The quotes below stayed with me after I finished the book:
“I don’t want to die. I just don’t know how to keep living.”
“A mother doesn’t stop being a mother just because the world took her child.”
“Every riddle feels like another way to watch her suffer.”
“They took her… and left me with hope as a punishment.”
“I was supposed to protect them. I failed.”
“A mother shouldn’t have to imagine a future without her child.”
“I stood on the edge and realized no one would notice if I jumped.”
“I keep breathing, but I don’t feel alive anymore.”
“I would trade my life for one more second with him.”
Overall, “You’ll Never Know” is not just a thriller; it’s a story about love under unbearable pressure and grief that refuses to be tidy. Emotional, relentless, and devastating in the best way.
December 11, 2025
4.5. Just … WOW. I feel like I was holding my breath that entire time. An insanely good whiplash thriller that doesn’t let up for a single second!!! So well written, so well executed. Definitely one of my favorite thrillers of the year!!! My first of Caleb’s but most certainly not my last!!!
January 6, 2026
I will never follow BookTok recommendations again for as long as I am literate and on this earth. This has been a total waste of time that was so hyped up to be the so-called best thriller of 2025. Have these people read no other thrillers for the entire year? Literally any other thriller would knock this one out of the running. Stacy Willingham, as bad of a thriller writer as she is, has been elevated in status after this awful book.
The book has a quick start. Grant (I think, because he has so many aliases that I lost interest) and his wife Avery are out and about, and she is randomly abducted by a stranger in a van. This happens right off the bat. From there, it was ridiculous. I’ve never had a kidnapping feel so stale and out of air, but this one did. About halfway through, there is a big twist, and the story started to get going again. Then it starts going into a backstory, detailing events that happened to set this stupid story up. I despise books that do this. It’s not an enjoyable experience to be told step for step what has happened. Let me read it and experience it without feeling like I am being spoon fed all the details. It felt like he threw his rough outline of how he could flesh out the story…without actually fleshing out the story.
It took me way too long to read this book, because I did not care what happened to any of them. The whole thing was fake and was bonkers. Everything. Also, this has to be said: Avery/Bailey was overly flawed in an unfair way, and she is evidence of how bad male authors are at writing female characters sometimes. I am so disappointed that I wasted battery power to read this mess. I’m also severely disappointed that I wasted time I will never ever get back. My final disappointment is that this book is also available as a paperback, which means there are poor innocent trees being viciously cut down to be made into paper for this awful book.
The book has a quick start. Grant (I think, because he has so many aliases that I lost interest) and his wife Avery are out and about, and she is randomly abducted by a stranger in a van. This happens right off the bat. From there, it was ridiculous. I’ve never had a kidnapping feel so stale and out of air, but this one did. About halfway through, there is a big twist, and the story started to get going again. Then it starts going into a backstory, detailing events that happened to set this stupid story up. I despise books that do this. It’s not an enjoyable experience to be told step for step what has happened. Let me read it and experience it without feeling like I am being spoon fed all the details. It felt like he threw his rough outline of how he could flesh out the story…without actually fleshing out the story.
It took me way too long to read this book, because I did not care what happened to any of them. The whole thing was fake and was bonkers. Everything. Also, this has to be said: Avery/Bailey was overly flawed in an unfair way, and she is evidence of how bad male authors are at writing female characters sometimes. I am so disappointed that I wasted battery power to read this mess. I’m also severely disappointed that I wasted time I will never ever get back. My final disappointment is that this book is also available as a paperback, which means there are poor innocent trees being viciously cut down to be made into paper for this awful book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2025
This is easily one of my favorite thrillers I’ve ever read! From the very first page, I was drawn into the story and couldn’t put it down.
The book starts off with a man’s wife being abducted in broad daylight, as he desperately tries to find her before it’s too late. The tension is high from page 1, and this book gripped me from cover to cover.
The big plot twist still has my jaw on the floor 😱 I plan to reread this in audio format next month bc I already want to revisit the story! God tier thriller!!
The book starts off with a man’s wife being abducted in broad daylight, as he desperately tries to find her before it’s too late. The tension is high from page 1, and this book gripped me from cover to cover.
The big plot twist still has my jaw on the floor 😱 I plan to reread this in audio format next month bc I already want to revisit the story! God tier thriller!!
December 12, 2025
You’ll Never Know was fun and fast-paced and starts with a bang—I mean, I’m always going to eat up a thriller that starts with a kidnapping in broad daylight! Something about the execution of some of the twists felt kind of muddled to me halfway through. As I got closer to the end, things cleared up—only for the ending to be somewhat of a let down and leave me wanting more answers than I got. I will say that the satisfying part of this book is it’s one you have to pay close attention to because some of the most important plot reveals come via dialogue or moments of reminiscing that seem like a throwaway.
I listened to the audiobook, tuned out for 2 minutes, and had to rewind it five minutes to make sure I wasn’t crazy LOL. As someone who unravels thrillers quickly sometimes, I enjoyed that aspect here. Also, it was nice to see multiple men be punished for their decisions in a way that felt like they deserved after reading several books this month where the men basically get slaps on the wrist.
I do think the pacing suffered anytime the narrative tried to do too much in terms of packing in shocking moments. It made some of the reveals feel less sparkly, so to speak.
I’ve never read anything by Caleb Stephens before so I’ll have to keep an eye out for his books!
4 ⭐️s
I listened to the audiobook, tuned out for 2 minutes, and had to rewind it five minutes to make sure I wasn’t crazy LOL. As someone who unravels thrillers quickly sometimes, I enjoyed that aspect here. Also, it was nice to see multiple men be punished for their decisions in a way that felt like they deserved after reading several books this month where the men basically get slaps on the wrist.
I do think the pacing suffered anytime the narrative tried to do too much in terms of packing in shocking moments. It made some of the reveals feel less sparkly, so to speak.
I’ve never read anything by Caleb Stephens before so I’ll have to keep an eye out for his books!
4 ⭐️s
January 2, 2026
Great concept
“You'll Never Know”, by Caleb Stephens
3 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Content advisory: This book includes references to infertility, emotional abuse, suicide, abduction, child death, coarse language, gun violence, and assault.
Terrific concept and a terrific start!
I thought this was going to be a 5 stars, but unfortunately the story was predictable (never mind being a bit farfetched).
The timeline structure could have been clearer, but I guess that would have spoiled the fun for some readers.
The pacing was uneven, where some parts were riveting and some were slow.
One of the main characters had a mismatch of personality that I did not find particularly appealing or convincing, especially considering that his perspective is told in first person.
The conclusion was a disappointing, at least for me.
The writing wasn’t bad, but some parts felt a bit juvenile and also repetitive.
Anyways, this was a good entertainment, just not that remarkable.
This was my first book by this author and I will probably try his other works.
“You'll Never Know”, by Caleb Stephens
3 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Content advisory: This book includes references to infertility, emotional abuse, suicide, abduction, child death, coarse language, gun violence, and assault.
Terrific concept and a terrific start!
I thought this was going to be a 5 stars, but unfortunately the story was predictable (never mind being a bit farfetched).
The timeline structure could have been clearer, but I guess that would have spoiled the fun for some readers.
The pacing was uneven, where some parts were riveting and some were slow.
One of the main characters had a mismatch of personality that I did not find particularly appealing or convincing, especially considering that his perspective is told in first person.
The conclusion was a disappointing, at least for me.
The writing wasn’t bad, but some parts felt a bit juvenile and also repetitive.
Anyways, this was a good entertainment, just not that remarkable.
This was my first book by this author and I will probably try his other works.
November 4, 2025
This was fun. I recommend.
I don’t think a thriller should be considered fun, but I was enthralled and addicted.
A husband must solve complex riddles against time to save his kidnapped pregnant wife, who was abducted by masked men in broad daylight.
I wasn’t whiplashed as I did guess some of the reveals, but I liked how the author played them out.
This isn’t action-packed per se, but it was an engaging character study that uses different timelines and POVs to explode together at the end.
I would recommend setting aside a day or a weekend to rip through this as the audiobook and the story was compellingly bingeable.
Whilst I didn’t love the fallout of the climax, I loved the journey getting there.
I wouldn’t say this is particularly horrifying or gruesome, so if you are a character-driven plot reader and want to try thrillers that are full of twists, start here.
Audiobook arc gifted by Libro.fm.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
I don’t think a thriller should be considered fun, but I was enthralled and addicted.
A husband must solve complex riddles against time to save his kidnapped pregnant wife, who was abducted by masked men in broad daylight.
I wasn’t whiplashed as I did guess some of the reveals, but I liked how the author played them out.
This isn’t action-packed per se, but it was an engaging character study that uses different timelines and POVs to explode together at the end.
I would recommend setting aside a day or a weekend to rip through this as the audiobook and the story was compellingly bingeable.
Whilst I didn’t love the fallout of the climax, I loved the journey getting there.
I wouldn’t say this is particularly horrifying or gruesome, so if you are a character-driven plot reader and want to try thrillers that are full of twists, start here.
Audiobook arc gifted by Libro.fm.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
November 4, 2025
My favorite thriller that’s been released this year! Caleb Stephens is a thriller GOD.
Married couple Grant and Avery are on a hike when she lets him know she is pregnant. Next thing you know a van abducts her in broad daylight. Grant is put on the clock and must solve a series of riddles if he has any hope of getting back his wife…and unborn baby.
Bad guys calling the shots & playing games, twists and turns everywhere, and serious depth that will make you feel emotionally connected to these characters.
Married couple Grant and Avery are on a hike when she lets him know she is pregnant. Next thing you know a van abducts her in broad daylight. Grant is put on the clock and must solve a series of riddles if he has any hope of getting back his wife…and unborn baby.
Bad guys calling the shots & playing games, twists and turns everywhere, and serious depth that will make you feel emotionally connected to these characters.
December 29, 2025
4.5⭐️ I INHALED this book!
February 7, 2026
What a crazy wild book. Well written and well crafted. If you like revenge books this is for you.
January 25, 2026
Listened. Caleb Stephens, Brittany Pressley and Adam Verner were all satisfactory.
Melodrama galore (Jayne said it first), esp in the third part. Swathed in it.
Repeatedly repetitive reiteration on replay.
I get it: you miss your family.
I get it: you feel bad for what you did.
Did I want there to be a happy ending for the couple? Kinda, yeah.
Great beginning. WOW. Swooped me up by my ankles. Then...what with all that scheming...and all that planning. There are a lot of plastic surgeons making a pretty penny in this book, no? That felt maybe a little too, um, convenient. As did that vest.
Great plot for sure. Wicked good suspense. All in all I had a good enough time.
Melodrama galore (Jayne said it first), esp in the third part. Swathed in it.
Repeatedly repetitive reiteration on replay.
I get it: you miss your family.
I get it: you feel bad for what you did.
Did I want there to be a happy ending for the couple? Kinda, yeah.
Great beginning. WOW. Swooped me up by my ankles. Then...what with all that scheming...and all that planning. There are a lot of plastic surgeons making a pretty penny in this book, no? That felt maybe a little too, um, convenient. As did that vest.
Great plot for sure. Wicked good suspense. All in all I had a good enough time.
December 13, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | This book kept me intrigued from start to finish as I waited to see how the storylines of Grant, Avery, Bailey, and Reed would eventually collide. This fast paced story made me feel less like listening to a book and more like watching a thriller movie unfold scene by scene, making my immersive reading experience even better!
The narration was a standout, everyone did a fantastic job, and the dual narration was absolutely perfect for this story. Each voice fit their character well and added depth to the tension filled moments. The transitions between perspectives were smooth and kept the momentum going without confusion.
When everything finally came together, there was a truly jaw dropping moment that made all the buildup worth it. Overall, You’ll Never Know is fast-paced, well written, and gripping! An excellent choice for thriller fans who love interconnected storylines & multiple POVs. Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
The narration was a standout, everyone did a fantastic job, and the dual narration was absolutely perfect for this story. Each voice fit their character well and added depth to the tension filled moments. The transitions between perspectives were smooth and kept the momentum going without confusion.
When everything finally came together, there was a truly jaw dropping moment that made all the buildup worth it. Overall, You’ll Never Know is fast-paced, well written, and gripping! An excellent choice for thriller fans who love interconnected storylines & multiple POVs. Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
January 17, 2026
this was so … good
so original
like honestly refreshing
i big loved this
interwoven
now i need to order every book the author has ever written
i had no real idea where this could possibly go but it was better than i imagined, amazing payoff
full circle
redeeming
the characters perfectly crafted in every way
my heart got got for sure
i felt the grief, the fear, the slipping of one self
well done
amazon, here i come, get ready for more sales, caleb
so original
like honestly refreshing
i big loved this
interwoven
now i need to order every book the author has ever written
i had no real idea where this could possibly go but it was better than i imagined, amazing payoff
full circle
redeeming
the characters perfectly crafted in every way
my heart got got for sure
i felt the grief, the fear, the slipping of one self
well done
amazon, here i come, get ready for more sales, caleb
October 8, 2025
WOW, this one blew me away! I wish I could give this more than 5 stars! Outstanding thriller, this will have you on the edge of your seat the entire way through!
It follows a couple, Grant and Avery that just found out they are expecting. They go out for a hike or so they planned until 2 masked men drive up in a van and take Avery! Grant is left scrambling to find her, he will go to the ends of the earth to get her back! What a wild ride, the stuff Grant was made to do to retrieve his wife will blow your mind.
And OMG the twists in this book had me reeling! This was such a suspenseful, edge of your seat kind of book! Highly highly recommend for all the thriller lovers out there! Thank you to Caleb for the ARC!!
It follows a couple, Grant and Avery that just found out they are expecting. They go out for a hike or so they planned until 2 masked men drive up in a van and take Avery! Grant is left scrambling to find her, he will go to the ends of the earth to get her back! What a wild ride, the stuff Grant was made to do to retrieve his wife will blow your mind.
And OMG the twists in this book had me reeling! This was such a suspenseful, edge of your seat kind of book! Highly highly recommend for all the thriller lovers out there! Thank you to Caleb for the ARC!!
October 26, 2025
Oh my goodness this book completely cured my reading slump! I couldn’t put it down! It was so fast paced and the plot twist had me gasping out loud like a maniac! This one is hands down my favorite!
November 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
After seeing great reviews on TikTok, I knew I had to read this book and wow, what a ride! From the very first page, you’re in the car and quickly realize this is going to be a white knuckle journey. Grant and Avery set out for a simple daytime hike, but everything changes when Avery is abducted shortly after Grant learns she’s expecting. The story moves seamlessly between past and present, pulling you deeper into Grant’s desperate race to save his wife as he’s led through a bizarre scavenger hunt filled with riddles, tension, and heart stopping moments. The twists and turns had me gasping for air, just when I thought I had it figured out, another layer hit!
Pub Date: November 18, 2025
If you love psychological thrillers that keep you engaged until the last page, mark your calendar, this one’s for you.
Thank you to @netgalley , Thrillerscape Press, @victoryeditingngc and @calebstephensauthor for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #ThrillerReads #Bookstagram #BookTok #ReadersOfInstagram #MustRead #NewRelease #ARCReview #BookLover #ThrillerCommunity #NetGalleyReviewer #CalebStephens #YoullNeverKnow #ThrillerscapePress
After seeing great reviews on TikTok, I knew I had to read this book and wow, what a ride! From the very first page, you’re in the car and quickly realize this is going to be a white knuckle journey. Grant and Avery set out for a simple daytime hike, but everything changes when Avery is abducted shortly after Grant learns she’s expecting. The story moves seamlessly between past and present, pulling you deeper into Grant’s desperate race to save his wife as he’s led through a bizarre scavenger hunt filled with riddles, tension, and heart stopping moments. The twists and turns had me gasping for air, just when I thought I had it figured out, another layer hit!
Pub Date: November 18, 2025
If you love psychological thrillers that keep you engaged until the last page, mark your calendar, this one’s for you.
Thank you to @netgalley , Thrillerscape Press, @victoryeditingngc and @calebstephensauthor for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#BookReview #PsychologicalThriller #ThrillerReads #Bookstagram #BookTok #ReadersOfInstagram #MustRead #NewRelease #ARCReview #BookLover #ThrillerCommunity #NetGalleyReviewer #CalebStephens #YoullNeverKnow #ThrillerscapePress
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