What do you think?
Cal Lovett Files #5
Unseen
Can a true crime podcaster track down a killer hiding in plain sight?
Bella Davies is cooking dinner for her family when she hears a voice she hasn't heard in a long time. She collapses in shock. The man being interviewed on the television murdered her mother and sisters.
The crime shocked the nation thirty-seven years ago. Back then, a man confessed and pleaded guilty to the crime, leaving Bella and her father to move on with their lives as best they could. But now Bella they got the wrong guy.
Podcaster Cal Lovett is trying to move on from his own demons, putting the past behind him and focusing on building a new life. But then Bella shows up on his doorstep and he knows he can never truly move on...
A dark and thrilling crime fiction novel set in Scotland. Perfect for fans of Jane Casey, Claire Douglas and Neil Lancaster.
Bella Davies is cooking dinner for her family when she hears a voice she hasn't heard in a long time. She collapses in shock. The man being interviewed on the television murdered her mother and sisters.
The crime shocked the nation thirty-seven years ago. Back then, a man confessed and pleaded guilty to the crime, leaving Bella and her father to move on with their lives as best they could. But now Bella they got the wrong guy.
Podcaster Cal Lovett is trying to move on from his own demons, putting the past behind him and focusing on building a new life. But then Bella shows up on his doorstep and he knows he can never truly move on...
A dark and thrilling crime fiction novel set in Scotland. Perfect for fans of Jane Casey, Claire Douglas and Neil Lancaster.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 24, 2026
4-5 stars
Cal Lovett (crime podcaster) #5
As a child, Bella Davies is Izzy, but not now. Once upon a happy time she’s Izzy Carlo, daughter of Allegra Carlo who is murdered along with her two sisters with Izzy left barely alive. Eventually, after exhaustive police enquiries into a case that shocks the nation, Lachlan Merrick confesses and is still serving a long sentence for the brutal murders. Now, a married woman with two sons, Bella is cooking the family dinner when she hears a voice on TV that shocks her to the core. It’s many years since she heard it, and now she’s convinced the police convicted the wrong man. When Bella shows up on Cal Lovett’s doorstep he’s wrestling with many demons, including the unresolved murder of his older sister Margot. As he works with Bella, he realises he cannot move on until he gets justice, not only for Bella, but also his sister.
I love this series and I’ve enjoyed them all and I hesitate to select “the best” but it might just be this one. First of all, it’s always a pleasure to return to the atmospheric world of Cal in Aberdeenshire where he lives with his partner Shona, with his Edinburgh University based daughter Chrissie a frequent visitor. Let’s not forget Rocket, the adorable Labrador. These are such likeable characters and I love the strong bond, love and trust between the three of them. Cal especially deserves happiness and oh boy, this latest instalment is an emotional and painful journey for him which Heather Critchlow conveys so well. In addition, there’s the pain that Bella and her father Dominic have lived with since Bella is five years old and that is palpable. Bella‘s varying emotions hit the heart strings. Despite the intensity of their feelings and how difficult, if not traumatic the journey is, I’m desperate for them to get answers.
The Carlo case is gripping it’s truly a shocker. I love the insertions of the podcast which further intensifies an already tense situation. The case is not clear cut at all, the deeper Cal digs, the more danger it’s evident they’re in. It’s very suspenseful, there are many setbacks, there are twists and turns as well as dilemmas for Cal to navigate, especially within his conscience. Dark and powerful forces are in the way of the truth and will stop at nothing. I like how it’s resolved and the ultimate ending is everything I hope for Cal.
Overall, I truly hope it’s not the end of this series. Cal may not have skin in future games but there’s plenty of mileage especially as I enjoy being in Cal, Shona and Chrissie’s company for a few hours.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Cal Lovett (crime podcaster) #5
As a child, Bella Davies is Izzy, but not now. Once upon a happy time she’s Izzy Carlo, daughter of Allegra Carlo who is murdered along with her two sisters with Izzy left barely alive. Eventually, after exhaustive police enquiries into a case that shocks the nation, Lachlan Merrick confesses and is still serving a long sentence for the brutal murders. Now, a married woman with two sons, Bella is cooking the family dinner when she hears a voice on TV that shocks her to the core. It’s many years since she heard it, and now she’s convinced the police convicted the wrong man. When Bella shows up on Cal Lovett’s doorstep he’s wrestling with many demons, including the unresolved murder of his older sister Margot. As he works with Bella, he realises he cannot move on until he gets justice, not only for Bella, but also his sister.
I love this series and I’ve enjoyed them all and I hesitate to select “the best” but it might just be this one. First of all, it’s always a pleasure to return to the atmospheric world of Cal in Aberdeenshire where he lives with his partner Shona, with his Edinburgh University based daughter Chrissie a frequent visitor. Let’s not forget Rocket, the adorable Labrador. These are such likeable characters and I love the strong bond, love and trust between the three of them. Cal especially deserves happiness and oh boy, this latest instalment is an emotional and painful journey for him which Heather Critchlow conveys so well. In addition, there’s the pain that Bella and her father Dominic have lived with since Bella is five years old and that is palpable. Bella‘s varying emotions hit the heart strings. Despite the intensity of their feelings and how difficult, if not traumatic the journey is, I’m desperate for them to get answers.
The Carlo case is gripping it’s truly a shocker. I love the insertions of the podcast which further intensifies an already tense situation. The case is not clear cut at all, the deeper Cal digs, the more danger it’s evident they’re in. It’s very suspenseful, there are many setbacks, there are twists and turns as well as dilemmas for Cal to navigate, especially within his conscience. Dark and powerful forces are in the way of the truth and will stop at nothing. I like how it’s resolved and the ultimate ending is everything I hope for Cal.
Overall, I truly hope it’s not the end of this series. Cal may not have skin in future games but there’s plenty of mileage especially as I enjoy being in Cal, Shona and Chrissie’s company for a few hours.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canelo for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
August 20, 2026
4.25 stars
This is the fifth book in the fabulous Cal Lovett series. Cal is a true crime podcaster who uses his show to help others get justice. Ironically, Cal has gone most of his adult life trying to get justice for his sister who disappeared when he was a child. This is such a great series and each book has individual investigations, but Cal's sister's case is a common thread from book to book. This book is especially tied to prior books, so I think it would be best enjoyed if you've read at least the book prior to this one if not the whole series. Cal is a likable character - he's caring and well-meaning but also flawed which makes him realistic and easier to relate to. I'm happy that the relationship with his girlfriend, Shona, has grown in spite of some past obstacles.
This book alternates between Cal and Bella, a young woman who comes to Cal for help. Her mother and two sisters were brutally killed when Bella was just a child and she now has reason to think the wrong man may be in prison for the crime. There are also several chapters with the transcript of the podcast reporting on Bella's case. There are some surprising twists and turns in the book with some parts of the story moving faster than others. I love the ending, which is hopeful for new beginnings for Cal but which may be the end of the series. If it is, I'll miss it, but have enjoyed all five books so much.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Canelo and NetGalley, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
This is the fifth book in the fabulous Cal Lovett series. Cal is a true crime podcaster who uses his show to help others get justice. Ironically, Cal has gone most of his adult life trying to get justice for his sister who disappeared when he was a child. This is such a great series and each book has individual investigations, but Cal's sister's case is a common thread from book to book. This book is especially tied to prior books, so I think it would be best enjoyed if you've read at least the book prior to this one if not the whole series. Cal is a likable character - he's caring and well-meaning but also flawed which makes him realistic and easier to relate to. I'm happy that the relationship with his girlfriend, Shona, has grown in spite of some past obstacles.
This book alternates between Cal and Bella, a young woman who comes to Cal for help. Her mother and two sisters were brutally killed when Bella was just a child and she now has reason to think the wrong man may be in prison for the crime. There are also several chapters with the transcript of the podcast reporting on Bella's case. There are some surprising twists and turns in the book with some parts of the story moving faster than others. I love the ending, which is hopeful for new beginnings for Cal but which may be the end of the series. If it is, I'll miss it, but have enjoyed all five books so much.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Canelo and NetGalley, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of *Unseen* before publication. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
*Unseen* is a dark, atmospheric and emotionally intelligent Scottish crime novel that combines a decades-old family murder with the personal journey of true-crime podcaster Cal Lovett. It is the fifth book in the Cal Lovett Files and brings the series to a thoughtful and satisfying conclusion.
Thirty-seven years ago, Bella Davies survived a crime that destroyed the rest of her family. Her mother and two sisters were brutally murdered, and although a man confessed and pleaded guilty, the terrible events have never stopped shaping Bella’s life. She and her father were left to rebuild what remained, believing that the person responsible had been identified and punished.
Everything changes when Bella is preparing dinner and hears a familiar voice on television. She immediately recognises the man being interviewed as the person who killed her mother and sisters. Her reaction is instinctive and overwhelming: the wrong man has been in prison all these years, while the real killer has apparently been living freely and hiding in plain sight.
Bella turns to Cal Lovett, a true-crime podcaster known for investigating unresolved cases. Cal is attempting to move forward from his own painful past and concentrate on building a more settled life. However, when Bella arrives with her extraordinary claim, he cannot simply dismiss her. Her certainty draws him into a case that raises difficult questions about memory, guilt, justice and the consequences of reopening a crime that many people would prefer to leave buried.
The central mystery is immediately compelling. The idea that Bella could recognise a murderer solely from hearing his voice decades later is both unsettling and fascinating. It creates an investigation built not around newly discovered forensic evidence but around memory—something deeply personal, emotionally powerful and potentially unreliable. Cal must determine whether Bella’s recognition can be trusted and, if it can, how an innocent man came to confess to such a horrific crime.
Bella is a particularly sympathetic character. She has lived almost her entire adult life in the shadow of what happened to her family. The conviction may have provided an official conclusion, but it could never restore what she lost. Hearing the suspected killer’s voice forces her to confront the possibility that everything she was told about the case was wrong.
Her certainty is understandable, but the passage of thirty-seven years inevitably creates doubt. Memories can change, trauma can distort perception and a familiar voice may not always belong to the person we believe it does. The novel handles this uncertainty sensitively, never treating Bella as simply mistaken or unquestionably correct. Instead, her recognition becomes the beginning of a careful investigation into what happened and why the original case appeared so conclusive.
Cal remains a strong and engaging central character. His podcast gives him access to people and stories that might be overlooked by conventional investigations, but it also carries ethical responsibilities. The crime is not merely material for an episode. It is Bella’s life, the story of three murdered women and a possible miscarriage of justice involving a man who has spent decades behind bars.
I appreciated the way the novel considers the ethics of true crime. Cal understands that investigating a tragedy can bring attention to an injustice, but it can also reopen wounds and expose private pain to public curiosity. He must balance his desire to uncover the truth with the effect his work may have on Bella, her father, the convicted man and everyone connected to the original case.
The investigation develops steadily as Cal examines the confession, the evidence and the lives of those involved. The fact that someone admitted responsibility creates a significant obstacle. False confessions can occur, but understanding why a person would confess to murdering a woman and her children requires Cal to look beyond the official account and question the pressures, relationships and assumptions surrounding the original investigation.
The Scottish setting is beautifully evoked and adds considerably to the atmosphere. The landscapes are often striking, but they also carry a sense of isolation and concealed history. Heather Critchlow uses the setting as more than a backdrop; it reinforces the feeling that the past remains present, even when people have spent years trying to escape it.
The novel is not driven solely by rapid action or constant twists. It is a more measured and character-focused crime story that allows the emotional consequences of the murders to remain central. The tension develops through conversations, inconsistencies and the gradual exposure of secrets rather than through continuous physical danger.
That approach worked well for me because the human impact of the crime never became secondary to solving the mystery. Bella did not simply lose three family members in one night. She also lost the childhood and future she might have had, while her relationship with her surviving father was inevitably shaped by their shared trauma. The possibility that the wrong person was convicted adds another layer of anger and grief.
Cal’s personal storyline also gives the novel emotional weight. He begins the book hoping to leave certain parts of his own past behind, but Bella’s case reminds him that unresolved events do not disappear merely because someone wants to move forward. His need to investigate is connected not only to his profession but also to his understanding of loss, uncertainty and the need for answers.
Because this is the final book in the series, established relationships and earlier experiences are important to Cal’s development. Readers who have followed him from the beginning will gain the most from seeing how far he has come and how the personal threads are resolved. However, the central investigation is explained clearly enough that a new reader should still be able to follow the case.
The supporting characters feel like real people with histories and motives rather than obvious suspects placed around the central mystery. As Cal begins questioning the accepted account, he discovers how many people have built their lives around the belief that the crime was solved. Reopening it threatens reputations, relationships and the comfort of certainty.
The novel also explores different meanings of justice. A conviction may satisfy the legal system, but it is not justice if the wrong person was punished. Equally, exposing the truth decades later cannot restore the years that were lost. The story recognises that justice may provide answers or accountability without ever being able to repair every consequence.
The pacing is deliberate, particularly during the early investigation. Readers looking for an extremely fast thriller may find it slower than expected, but I thought the careful development suited the complexity of the case. The tension increases as Cal discovers weaknesses in the original investigation and moves closer to the person Bella believes she recognised.
There are several twists and revelations, but they do not feel included solely for shock value. The strongest surprises arise from character, motive and the hidden circumstances surrounding the confession. The novel encourages the reader to question not only who committed the murders but also why the wrong conclusion may have been accepted for so long.
A few aspects of the investigation required some suspension of disbelief, particularly the way certain information becomes available after so many years. There were also moments when I wanted the story to move slightly faster. Nevertheless, the careful character work and emotional depth prevented the slower sections from feeling unnecessary.
The final part of the novel is tense and affecting. The various strands of the investigation come together while Cal must confront both the truth of Bella’s case and the direction of his own life. The resolution provides answers without suggesting that discovering the truth can erase decades of suffering.
As a conclusion to the series, *Unseen* feels reflective as well as suspenseful. It allows Cal’s personal journey to matter alongside the criminal investigation and provides a sense that his experiences across the previous books have genuinely changed him. The ending is satisfying without feeling artificially perfect.
Overall, *Unseen* is a compelling and emotionally resonant Scottish crime novel about a family destroyed by violence, a possible wrongful conviction and a survivor who refuses to ignore what she knows. Its greatest strengths are its complex characters, atmospheric setting and thoughtful exploration of memory, trauma and justice.
This is not simply a story about identifying a killer. It is about the damage caused when the wrong version of the truth is allowed to stand, the responsibility involved in telling other people’s stories and whether justice can still have meaning after thirty-seven years.
An absorbing, intelligent and moving conclusion to the Cal Lovett Files, particularly suited to readers who enjoy cold cases, true-crime investigations, atmospheric Scottish settings and crime fiction with genuine emotional depth.
*Unseen* is a dark, atmospheric and emotionally intelligent Scottish crime novel that combines a decades-old family murder with the personal journey of true-crime podcaster Cal Lovett. It is the fifth book in the Cal Lovett Files and brings the series to a thoughtful and satisfying conclusion.
Thirty-seven years ago, Bella Davies survived a crime that destroyed the rest of her family. Her mother and two sisters were brutally murdered, and although a man confessed and pleaded guilty, the terrible events have never stopped shaping Bella’s life. She and her father were left to rebuild what remained, believing that the person responsible had been identified and punished.
Everything changes when Bella is preparing dinner and hears a familiar voice on television. She immediately recognises the man being interviewed as the person who killed her mother and sisters. Her reaction is instinctive and overwhelming: the wrong man has been in prison all these years, while the real killer has apparently been living freely and hiding in plain sight.
Bella turns to Cal Lovett, a true-crime podcaster known for investigating unresolved cases. Cal is attempting to move forward from his own painful past and concentrate on building a more settled life. However, when Bella arrives with her extraordinary claim, he cannot simply dismiss her. Her certainty draws him into a case that raises difficult questions about memory, guilt, justice and the consequences of reopening a crime that many people would prefer to leave buried.
The central mystery is immediately compelling. The idea that Bella could recognise a murderer solely from hearing his voice decades later is both unsettling and fascinating. It creates an investigation built not around newly discovered forensic evidence but around memory—something deeply personal, emotionally powerful and potentially unreliable. Cal must determine whether Bella’s recognition can be trusted and, if it can, how an innocent man came to confess to such a horrific crime.
Bella is a particularly sympathetic character. She has lived almost her entire adult life in the shadow of what happened to her family. The conviction may have provided an official conclusion, but it could never restore what she lost. Hearing the suspected killer’s voice forces her to confront the possibility that everything she was told about the case was wrong.
Her certainty is understandable, but the passage of thirty-seven years inevitably creates doubt. Memories can change, trauma can distort perception and a familiar voice may not always belong to the person we believe it does. The novel handles this uncertainty sensitively, never treating Bella as simply mistaken or unquestionably correct. Instead, her recognition becomes the beginning of a careful investigation into what happened and why the original case appeared so conclusive.
Cal remains a strong and engaging central character. His podcast gives him access to people and stories that might be overlooked by conventional investigations, but it also carries ethical responsibilities. The crime is not merely material for an episode. It is Bella’s life, the story of three murdered women and a possible miscarriage of justice involving a man who has spent decades behind bars.
I appreciated the way the novel considers the ethics of true crime. Cal understands that investigating a tragedy can bring attention to an injustice, but it can also reopen wounds and expose private pain to public curiosity. He must balance his desire to uncover the truth with the effect his work may have on Bella, her father, the convicted man and everyone connected to the original case.
The investigation develops steadily as Cal examines the confession, the evidence and the lives of those involved. The fact that someone admitted responsibility creates a significant obstacle. False confessions can occur, but understanding why a person would confess to murdering a woman and her children requires Cal to look beyond the official account and question the pressures, relationships and assumptions surrounding the original investigation.
The Scottish setting is beautifully evoked and adds considerably to the atmosphere. The landscapes are often striking, but they also carry a sense of isolation and concealed history. Heather Critchlow uses the setting as more than a backdrop; it reinforces the feeling that the past remains present, even when people have spent years trying to escape it.
The novel is not driven solely by rapid action or constant twists. It is a more measured and character-focused crime story that allows the emotional consequences of the murders to remain central. The tension develops through conversations, inconsistencies and the gradual exposure of secrets rather than through continuous physical danger.
That approach worked well for me because the human impact of the crime never became secondary to solving the mystery. Bella did not simply lose three family members in one night. She also lost the childhood and future she might have had, while her relationship with her surviving father was inevitably shaped by their shared trauma. The possibility that the wrong person was convicted adds another layer of anger and grief.
Cal’s personal storyline also gives the novel emotional weight. He begins the book hoping to leave certain parts of his own past behind, but Bella’s case reminds him that unresolved events do not disappear merely because someone wants to move forward. His need to investigate is connected not only to his profession but also to his understanding of loss, uncertainty and the need for answers.
Because this is the final book in the series, established relationships and earlier experiences are important to Cal’s development. Readers who have followed him from the beginning will gain the most from seeing how far he has come and how the personal threads are resolved. However, the central investigation is explained clearly enough that a new reader should still be able to follow the case.
The supporting characters feel like real people with histories and motives rather than obvious suspects placed around the central mystery. As Cal begins questioning the accepted account, he discovers how many people have built their lives around the belief that the crime was solved. Reopening it threatens reputations, relationships and the comfort of certainty.
The novel also explores different meanings of justice. A conviction may satisfy the legal system, but it is not justice if the wrong person was punished. Equally, exposing the truth decades later cannot restore the years that were lost. The story recognises that justice may provide answers or accountability without ever being able to repair every consequence.
The pacing is deliberate, particularly during the early investigation. Readers looking for an extremely fast thriller may find it slower than expected, but I thought the careful development suited the complexity of the case. The tension increases as Cal discovers weaknesses in the original investigation and moves closer to the person Bella believes she recognised.
There are several twists and revelations, but they do not feel included solely for shock value. The strongest surprises arise from character, motive and the hidden circumstances surrounding the confession. The novel encourages the reader to question not only who committed the murders but also why the wrong conclusion may have been accepted for so long.
A few aspects of the investigation required some suspension of disbelief, particularly the way certain information becomes available after so many years. There were also moments when I wanted the story to move slightly faster. Nevertheless, the careful character work and emotional depth prevented the slower sections from feeling unnecessary.
The final part of the novel is tense and affecting. The various strands of the investigation come together while Cal must confront both the truth of Bella’s case and the direction of his own life. The resolution provides answers without suggesting that discovering the truth can erase decades of suffering.
As a conclusion to the series, *Unseen* feels reflective as well as suspenseful. It allows Cal’s personal journey to matter alongside the criminal investigation and provides a sense that his experiences across the previous books have genuinely changed him. The ending is satisfying without feeling artificially perfect.
Overall, *Unseen* is a compelling and emotionally resonant Scottish crime novel about a family destroyed by violence, a possible wrongful conviction and a survivor who refuses to ignore what she knows. Its greatest strengths are its complex characters, atmospheric setting and thoughtful exploration of memory, trauma and justice.
This is not simply a story about identifying a killer. It is about the damage caused when the wrong version of the truth is allowed to stand, the responsibility involved in telling other people’s stories and whether justice can still have meaning after thirty-seven years.
An absorbing, intelligent and moving conclusion to the Cal Lovett Files, particularly suited to readers who enjoy cold cases, true-crime investigations, atmospheric Scottish settings and crime fiction with genuine emotional depth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Can a true crime podcaster track down a serial killer who is hiding in plain sight?
Another phenomenal instalment in this series and I’m hoping there is still more to come as I’ve grown fond of Cal and all of the other incredible characters that have been featured in this series. I have so many favourites and it’s great being reunited with them again! I think this had some of my favourite character growth from Cal especially and I’ve loved seeing how far he has came over the course of this series. I was left with some questions about some of the characters but honestly, I’m kinda happy to fill in the blanks about what happened to some of them after the events of the book. I think I’m way too attached to these characters because some parts had me crying, which is rare for me when it comes to thrillers, which goes to show how much I love this series.
I love the writing and how descriptive it is. It makes you feel like you’re in the head of the character whose POV you’re in and experiencing everything that they are going through, which I love. I also love how much it focusses on the victims and being able to see the effects that the crime has had on the family and how much it impacts their life - it makes it feel realistic and to me, makes me root for Cal to get to the bottom of what has happened to these victims. I love that you get to see justice be delivered through Cal’s Finding Justice podcast. It’s interesting to see the research that Cal does into each case and how the things that he finds out informs the podcast episodes. I love seeing how it all comes together and it’s so fascinating that the podcast episodes are included, as I love mixed media and I think helps the reader be immersed in the story.
I love how atmospheric the writing is, especially when it talks about the settings within this book! I can picture so clearly how they look and it makes me want to visit them so badly.
⚠️ CWs: violence, panic attack, kidnapping, illness, death, animal cruelty, grief, alcohol use, cursing, fire, blood, physical assault; mentions person with substance use disorder, misogyny, murder, stalking, animal parent death, blood, rape, harassment, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, suicide, derogatory language, emotional abuse, injury detail, vomit ⚠️
Another phenomenal instalment in this series and I’m hoping there is still more to come as I’ve grown fond of Cal and all of the other incredible characters that have been featured in this series. I have so many favourites and it’s great being reunited with them again! I think this had some of my favourite character growth from Cal especially and I’ve loved seeing how far he has came over the course of this series. I was left with some questions about some of the characters but honestly, I’m kinda happy to fill in the blanks about what happened to some of them after the events of the book. I think I’m way too attached to these characters because some parts had me crying, which is rare for me when it comes to thrillers, which goes to show how much I love this series.
I love the writing and how descriptive it is. It makes you feel like you’re in the head of the character whose POV you’re in and experiencing everything that they are going through, which I love. I also love how much it focusses on the victims and being able to see the effects that the crime has had on the family and how much it impacts their life - it makes it feel realistic and to me, makes me root for Cal to get to the bottom of what has happened to these victims. I love that you get to see justice be delivered through Cal’s Finding Justice podcast. It’s interesting to see the research that Cal does into each case and how the things that he finds out informs the podcast episodes. I love seeing how it all comes together and it’s so fascinating that the podcast episodes are included, as I love mixed media and I think helps the reader be immersed in the story.
I love how atmospheric the writing is, especially when it talks about the settings within this book! I can picture so clearly how they look and it makes me want to visit them so badly.
⚠️ CWs: violence, panic attack, kidnapping, illness, death, animal cruelty, grief, alcohol use, cursing, fire, blood, physical assault; mentions person with substance use disorder, misogyny, murder, stalking, animal parent death, blood, rape, harassment, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, suicide, derogatory language, emotional abuse, injury detail, vomit ⚠️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Unseen by Heather Critchlow closes out the Cal Lovett series with quiet confidence, trading fireworks for something more haunting: a slow-burn reckoning with memory, guilt, and the stories we choose to believe.
Coming back to Aberdeenshire's windswept coastline for one last case, with Cal, Shona, Chrissie, and Rocket all in tow, feels less like picking up a new book and more like catching up with people you've missed.
At the heart of it is Bella, a woman who has spent thirty-seven years living quietly in the aftermath of unimaginable loss. Then a stranger's voice on the television stops her cold, and with it comes the unbearable possibility that the man convicted of murdering her mother and sisters was never guilty at all.
What follows isn't a race against the clock so much as a slow unravelling, as Cal is pulled into a case built not on fresh forensics but on something far less certain: one woman's recollection of a sound she hasn't heard in decades.
Critchlow lets the investigation breathe. Conversations, contradictions, and long-buried secrets do the heavy lifting rather than chase scenes or cliffhangers, and the result is a book that never loses sight of the human cost sitting underneath the puzzle. Bella isn't reduced to a plot, her grief, her doubt, and her relationship with her surviving father are given real weight throughout.
Cal, too, gets his due as this final chapter closes. Having spent the series digging into other people's darkest moments, he's finally forced to sit with his own, and Bella's case becomes as much a mirror for him as it is a mystery to solve.
Longtime readers will feel the payoff of everything he's carried across the earlier books, while newcomers should still find the central case easy enough to follow.
The Scottish setting does a lot of quiet work here too, moody, remote, and steeped in the sense that the past never really stays buried.
Combined with woven-in podcast segments that dial up the unease, the atmosphere never lets up.
It's a fitting, thoughtful send-off: less concerned with a tidy resolution than with asking what justice can actually mean thirty-seven years too late. Beautifully observed and genuinely moving, it's the perfect close to a fabulous series.
My thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for the ARC.
Coming back to Aberdeenshire's windswept coastline for one last case, with Cal, Shona, Chrissie, and Rocket all in tow, feels less like picking up a new book and more like catching up with people you've missed.
At the heart of it is Bella, a woman who has spent thirty-seven years living quietly in the aftermath of unimaginable loss. Then a stranger's voice on the television stops her cold, and with it comes the unbearable possibility that the man convicted of murdering her mother and sisters was never guilty at all.
What follows isn't a race against the clock so much as a slow unravelling, as Cal is pulled into a case built not on fresh forensics but on something far less certain: one woman's recollection of a sound she hasn't heard in decades.
Critchlow lets the investigation breathe. Conversations, contradictions, and long-buried secrets do the heavy lifting rather than chase scenes or cliffhangers, and the result is a book that never loses sight of the human cost sitting underneath the puzzle. Bella isn't reduced to a plot, her grief, her doubt, and her relationship with her surviving father are given real weight throughout.
Cal, too, gets his due as this final chapter closes. Having spent the series digging into other people's darkest moments, he's finally forced to sit with his own, and Bella's case becomes as much a mirror for him as it is a mystery to solve.
Longtime readers will feel the payoff of everything he's carried across the earlier books, while newcomers should still find the central case easy enough to follow.
The Scottish setting does a lot of quiet work here too, moody, remote, and steeped in the sense that the past never really stays buried.
Combined with woven-in podcast segments that dial up the unease, the atmosphere never lets up.
It's a fitting, thoughtful send-off: less concerned with a tidy resolution than with asking what justice can actually mean thirty-seven years too late. Beautifully observed and genuinely moving, it's the perfect close to a fabulous series.
My thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for the ARC.
July 7, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for providing this advance review copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by this author, and it definitely won’t be my last—I’ll be diving into her back catalogue.
From the very first chapter, the story kept me completely engaged. It’s gripping, suspenseful, and constantly leaves you wanting to read just one more chapter. The book description is an accurate reflection of what you’ll get, which is always appreciated.
I loved the writing style. The descriptions were beautifully written, creating a vivid sense of place without slowing the pace. I also really enjoyed the multiple POVs, which added depth to the story and helped me connect with the characters. I genuinely cared about what happened to them, making the twists and revelations even more impactful.
The podcast element was a particular highlight for me—I’m always drawn to stories that incorporate true crime podcasts, and this was woven into the narrative brilliantly.
Overall, this was a compelling, atmospheric thriller that kept me hooked from beginning to end. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys immersive, character-driven suspense.
Can a true crime podcaster track down a killer hiding in plain sight?
Bella Davies is cooking dinner for her family when she hears a voice she hasn't heard in a long time. She collapses in shock. The man being interviewed on the television murdered her mother and sisters. The crime shocked the nation thirty-seven years ago. Back then, a man confessed and pleaded guilty to the crime, leaving Bella and her father to move on with their lives as best they could. But now Bella knows: they got the wrong guy. Podcaster Cal Lovett is trying to move on from his own demons, putting the past behind him and focusing on building a new life. But then Bella shows up on his doorstep and he knows he can never truly move on... A dark and thrilling crime fiction novel set in Scotland.
This was my first book by this author, and it definitely won’t be my last—I’ll be diving into her back catalogue.
From the very first chapter, the story kept me completely engaged. It’s gripping, suspenseful, and constantly leaves you wanting to read just one more chapter. The book description is an accurate reflection of what you’ll get, which is always appreciated.
I loved the writing style. The descriptions were beautifully written, creating a vivid sense of place without slowing the pace. I also really enjoyed the multiple POVs, which added depth to the story and helped me connect with the characters. I genuinely cared about what happened to them, making the twists and revelations even more impactful.
The podcast element was a particular highlight for me—I’m always drawn to stories that incorporate true crime podcasts, and this was woven into the narrative brilliantly.
Overall, this was a compelling, atmospheric thriller that kept me hooked from beginning to end. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys immersive, character-driven suspense.
Can a true crime podcaster track down a killer hiding in plain sight?
Bella Davies is cooking dinner for her family when she hears a voice she hasn't heard in a long time. She collapses in shock. The man being interviewed on the television murdered her mother and sisters. The crime shocked the nation thirty-seven years ago. Back then, a man confessed and pleaded guilty to the crime, leaving Bella and her father to move on with their lives as best they could. But now Bella knows: they got the wrong guy. Podcaster Cal Lovett is trying to move on from his own demons, putting the past behind him and focusing on building a new life. But then Bella shows up on his doorstep and he knows he can never truly move on... A dark and thrilling crime fiction novel set in Scotland.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the first book I have read by this author. I didn't realize that this was part of a series until recently and I haven't read the other books, but I thought this did fine as a standalone but now I would like to go back and read the others.
In the book Unseen, Cal Lovett is a podcaster whose sister Margot was murdered many years ago. Cal knows that Jason Barr is her killer, Barr is sentenced fairly lightly for the crimes he committed.
Bella Davies is cooking food and overhears a broadcast on TV and recognizes a voice from the past that totally freaks her out. She just heard the voice of the man that killed her mother, her sisters, and left her for dead many years ago. Another man was convicted and is serving a sentence but she now realizes that the wrong man is in prison.
She decides to talk to Cal Lovett and asks for his help as he is a podcaster and maybe could help her get to the bottom of the case. It just so happens the same man that killed Cal's sister is the same man that Bella heard the voice of on TV. How are these two murders connected and are they really connected?
That starts the ball rolling as Cal starts investigating the case hoping to be able to connect Jason Barr to that case also or at least find out the truth. However, as the story goes on, not everything is as it seems. There are definitely some twists and turns and some events that happen that point to more being involved then originally thought. Not wanting to say more as to give away spoilers. I normally steer away from police procedurals or crime thrillers preferring more of the psychological thriller but this one was so nicely done that I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters, the pacing, the suspense, and twists and turns, the podcast parts, and the writing in general. Now, I must go back and read the rest of the stories.
Thank you Netgalley and Canelo for the complimentary copy of the story.
In the book Unseen, Cal Lovett is a podcaster whose sister Margot was murdered many years ago. Cal knows that Jason Barr is her killer, Barr is sentenced fairly lightly for the crimes he committed.
Bella Davies is cooking food and overhears a broadcast on TV and recognizes a voice from the past that totally freaks her out. She just heard the voice of the man that killed her mother, her sisters, and left her for dead many years ago. Another man was convicted and is serving a sentence but she now realizes that the wrong man is in prison.
She decides to talk to Cal Lovett and asks for his help as he is a podcaster and maybe could help her get to the bottom of the case. It just so happens the same man that killed Cal's sister is the same man that Bella heard the voice of on TV. How are these two murders connected and are they really connected?
That starts the ball rolling as Cal starts investigating the case hoping to be able to connect Jason Barr to that case also or at least find out the truth. However, as the story goes on, not everything is as it seems. There are definitely some twists and turns and some events that happen that point to more being involved then originally thought. Not wanting to say more as to give away spoilers. I normally steer away from police procedurals or crime thrillers preferring more of the psychological thriller but this one was so nicely done that I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters, the pacing, the suspense, and twists and turns, the podcast parts, and the writing in general. Now, I must go back and read the rest of the stories.
Thank you Netgalley and Canelo for the complimentary copy of the story.
July 6, 2026
Unseen delivers exactly what I hope for in modern crime fiction: atmosphere, urgency, and characters who feel painfully real. Heather Critchlow brings Cal Lovett back for a case that is as haunting as it is deeply human, and the result is a dark, propulsive read set against the stark beauty of Scotland.
Bella’s shock at recognising the voice of the man who destroyed her family decades ago is a brilliant hook—quiet, domestic, and devastating. From that moment, the novel never loosens its hold. The revelation that the wrong man confessed all those years ago adds a chilling layer, and Critchlow handles the emotional fallout with real sensitivity. Bella isn’t just a plot device; she’s a woman carrying decades of grief, suddenly forced to reopen wounds she thought were sealed.
Cal, meanwhile, remains one of the most compelling figures in contemporary crime fiction. His attempt to rebuild his life, only to be pulled back into darkness, gives the story a grounded emotional core. Watching him and Bella navigate trauma, truth, and the dangerous consequences of digging too deep makes the novel feel both intimate and high‑stakes.
The pacing is taut, the Highlands setting vivid, and the unfolding mystery genuinely unsettling. Critchlow excels at layering tension without ever sacrificing character. The final stretch is especially satisfying—sharp, thoughtful, and true to the emotional threads woven throughout the series.
A gripping, atmospheric, and beautifully written conclusion to Cal Lovett’s story. I’ll miss him, but this finale lands with real power.
With thanks to Heather Critchlow, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Bella’s shock at recognising the voice of the man who destroyed her family decades ago is a brilliant hook—quiet, domestic, and devastating. From that moment, the novel never loosens its hold. The revelation that the wrong man confessed all those years ago adds a chilling layer, and Critchlow handles the emotional fallout with real sensitivity. Bella isn’t just a plot device; she’s a woman carrying decades of grief, suddenly forced to reopen wounds she thought were sealed.
Cal, meanwhile, remains one of the most compelling figures in contemporary crime fiction. His attempt to rebuild his life, only to be pulled back into darkness, gives the story a grounded emotional core. Watching him and Bella navigate trauma, truth, and the dangerous consequences of digging too deep makes the novel feel both intimate and high‑stakes.
The pacing is taut, the Highlands setting vivid, and the unfolding mystery genuinely unsettling. Critchlow excels at layering tension without ever sacrificing character. The final stretch is especially satisfying—sharp, thoughtful, and true to the emotional threads woven throughout the series.
A gripping, atmospheric, and beautifully written conclusion to Cal Lovett’s story. I’ll miss him, but this finale lands with real power.
With thanks to Heather Critchlow, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Cal only ever wanted to solve his sister's murder. It's been a long road to get here but he may now get the answers he's longed for!
I really enjoy this series. Cal is the most affable, non spotlight seeking character. He's accidentally got a bit of a reputation now for solving cold cases. So much so even the local police give him assistance now and then. The background romantic relationship between Shona and himself is beautifully portrayed and there is never drama between them, drama only comes from outside. The relationship he has with his daughter is so strong and they are friends as well as father/daughter.
Bella had one of the most visceral reactions I've seen depicted in a crime novel. I was in that tunnel of fear with her, holding my breath, wondering how she'll cope. After learning about her family tragedy, her seeking assistance from Cal was a big step for her.
I really love learning more about crime podcasts and all the stuff that goes on behind the scenes including the research and production side of it. This case was a particularly harrowing one and one with links to Cal's own tragedy, making it even harder for him not to seek justice. I was so worried for Cal's mental health and just how far he'd go to get the ending he wanted.
I was really happy with the conclusion to the story and that Cal, Shona, Chrissie and Rocket are in a happier, more settled place after all that's happened to them. I really hope we get to visit with them again sometime, even as a wee cameo appearance in another series would be lovely.
Great series, please give these wonderfully written books a go!
I really enjoy this series. Cal is the most affable, non spotlight seeking character. He's accidentally got a bit of a reputation now for solving cold cases. So much so even the local police give him assistance now and then. The background romantic relationship between Shona and himself is beautifully portrayed and there is never drama between them, drama only comes from outside. The relationship he has with his daughter is so strong and they are friends as well as father/daughter.
Bella had one of the most visceral reactions I've seen depicted in a crime novel. I was in that tunnel of fear with her, holding my breath, wondering how she'll cope. After learning about her family tragedy, her seeking assistance from Cal was a big step for her.
I really love learning more about crime podcasts and all the stuff that goes on behind the scenes including the research and production side of it. This case was a particularly harrowing one and one with links to Cal's own tragedy, making it even harder for him not to seek justice. I was so worried for Cal's mental health and just how far he'd go to get the ending he wanted.
I was really happy with the conclusion to the story and that Cal, Shona, Chrissie and Rocket are in a happier, more settled place after all that's happened to them. I really hope we get to visit with them again sometime, even as a wee cameo appearance in another series would be lovely.
Great series, please give these wonderfully written books a go!
August 25, 2026
Book #5 in the Cal Lovett series returns readers to Aberdeenshire and the podcast that Cal Lovett moderates. He has spent his adult life helping others get justice but has not found the answer to his sister's disappearance yet. Each book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, but together they make an excellent picture of the characters and the communities that tie them together.
Thirty-seven years ago, Bella Davies' mother and sisters were murdered, and Bella was left for dead. She was only five years old but remembers that day vividly. The police would eventually arrest Lachlan Merrick, who would confess to and be convicted of the murders. Bella and her father never questioned the confession or conviction, believing justice had been done for their family. Then today, as Bella listens to the television, she recognizes a voice from her nightmares. She's positive this is the voice of the murderer, and the police convicted the wrong man. The police do not believe her; after all, she was five and scared. So Bella will seek assistance from Cal Lovett. This is the backstory that sets the thriller in motion.
The series has maintained a consistent pace with three-dimensional characters supporting each story. Critchlow includes segments of the podcast to add clues and twists at each step Cal and Bella take. Small clues will show up later in the story to support or disprove theories, and then a twist brings readers right back to the start. This is a book that grabs your attention and requires you to concentrate on every step of the investigation. Definitely a 5 star read.
Thirty-seven years ago, Bella Davies' mother and sisters were murdered, and Bella was left for dead. She was only five years old but remembers that day vividly. The police would eventually arrest Lachlan Merrick, who would confess to and be convicted of the murders. Bella and her father never questioned the confession or conviction, believing justice had been done for their family. Then today, as Bella listens to the television, she recognizes a voice from her nightmares. She's positive this is the voice of the murderer, and the police convicted the wrong man. The police do not believe her; after all, she was five and scared. So Bella will seek assistance from Cal Lovett. This is the backstory that sets the thriller in motion.
The series has maintained a consistent pace with three-dimensional characters supporting each story. Critchlow includes segments of the podcast to add clues and twists at each step Cal and Bella take. Small clues will show up later in the story to support or disprove theories, and then a twist brings readers right back to the start. This is a book that grabs your attention and requires you to concentrate on every step of the investigation. Definitely a 5 star read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Unseen by Heather Critchlow is the fifth and final book in the Cal Lovett series who is a Scottish True- crime podcaster who investigates cold cases.
When Bella is cooking dinner for her family, she recognises a voice on the TV that she hasn’t heard in a long time. She collapsed in shock. The man been interviewed murdered her mother and sisters. Bella was the only survivor.
The crime shocked the nation thirty-seven years ago and a man was convicted for the crime. But she now knows they got the wrong man.
Cal, whilst struggling with life after his own sister was murdered when she was young. Just gets by every day. When Bella turns up on his doorstop to ask for his help he knows he can’t move on. But Cal always fights for justice, so he agrees to help. But by doing so, soon finds out that the real killer of Bella’s mother and sisters murders may lead to finding out who killed his sister Margot.
Once again, Heather Critchlow has written another dark suspenseful and atmospheric read of one True crime podcaster fighting for justice for victims of crime. I love the setting in the Scottish Highlands and Cal is such a likeable character with his determination to find out the truth. The storyline kept me engaged throughout and I think this is fantastic series and will be sad to see it go. Hopefully there maybe will be more in the future. I would love to see this on screen. I think this would make a great TV series 5 stars from me.
When Bella is cooking dinner for her family, she recognises a voice on the TV that she hasn’t heard in a long time. She collapsed in shock. The man been interviewed murdered her mother and sisters. Bella was the only survivor.
The crime shocked the nation thirty-seven years ago and a man was convicted for the crime. But she now knows they got the wrong man.
Cal, whilst struggling with life after his own sister was murdered when she was young. Just gets by every day. When Bella turns up on his doorstop to ask for his help he knows he can’t move on. But Cal always fights for justice, so he agrees to help. But by doing so, soon finds out that the real killer of Bella’s mother and sisters murders may lead to finding out who killed his sister Margot.
Once again, Heather Critchlow has written another dark suspenseful and atmospheric read of one True crime podcaster fighting for justice for victims of crime. I love the setting in the Scottish Highlands and Cal is such a likeable character with his determination to find out the truth. The storyline kept me engaged throughout and I think this is fantastic series and will be sad to see it go. Hopefully there maybe will be more in the future. I would love to see this on screen. I think this would make a great TV series 5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this as an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Unseen by Heather Critchlow is an engaging crime thriller that combines a cold case mystery with the addictive world of true crime podcasts. The premise immediately hooked me, and I was invested from the very first chapter.
Bella’s world is turned upside down when she believes the man who murdered her mother and sisters is alive and hiding in plain sight, despite someone else having confessed decades earlier. Pairing her with podcaster Cal Lovett created an interesting investigative duo, and I enjoyed following them as they unravelled long-buried secrets while battling their own emotional baggage.
The story is well-paced, with plenty of twists, red herrings, and moments that kept me second-guessing everyone. The podcast element added a fresh, modern touch to the investigation, and I liked how the author explored the lasting impact of trauma and grief alongside the mystery.
While I guessed a couple of reveals before the end, there were still enough surprises to keep me turning the pages. At times I would have liked a little more depth in the supporting characters, but the compelling investigation more than made up for it.
Overall, Unseen is a gripping, atmospheric thriller with an intriguing premise, relatable characters, and plenty of suspense. If you enjoy cold cases, true crime podcasts, and mysteries where the past refuses to stay buried, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Unseen by Heather Critchlow is an engaging crime thriller that combines a cold case mystery with the addictive world of true crime podcasts. The premise immediately hooked me, and I was invested from the very first chapter.
Bella’s world is turned upside down when she believes the man who murdered her mother and sisters is alive and hiding in plain sight, despite someone else having confessed decades earlier. Pairing her with podcaster Cal Lovett created an interesting investigative duo, and I enjoyed following them as they unravelled long-buried secrets while battling their own emotional baggage.
The story is well-paced, with plenty of twists, red herrings, and moments that kept me second-guessing everyone. The podcast element added a fresh, modern touch to the investigation, and I liked how the author explored the lasting impact of trauma and grief alongside the mystery.
While I guessed a couple of reveals before the end, there were still enough surprises to keep me turning the pages. At times I would have liked a little more depth in the supporting characters, but the compelling investigation more than made up for it.
Overall, Unseen is a gripping, atmospheric thriller with an intriguing premise, relatable characters, and plenty of suspense. If you enjoy cold cases, true crime podcasts, and mysteries where the past refuses to stay buried, this is definitely one to add to your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Unseen will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Thirty years after the murder of Bella Davies’ mother and sisters, she hears a voice on the tv she never thought she’d hear again, the voice of the man who killed them. The only problem? There’s already a man serving time for their murder. Now, Bella is determined to get real justice. She reaches out to a podcaster, Cal Lovett, who is dealing with his own demons, but when she tells him the situation they both know they need to get justice, for both the dead and the living.
I enjoyed this more than I expected to. With Cal being a podcaster, admittedly I expected to find him annoying and not like him much, but I was wrong. He's a very empathetic character, the kind of guy you root for. He's clearly got his own issues and personal demons, but that just makes him a more interesting character. Bella is also a very moving character. As the lone survivor of a triple homocide, she's clearly got baggage, but it's also over thirty years later and she's got her own family now. She's the same age as her mother when the murder happened, which I found probably more heartbreaking than I should.
I was eager for justice to happen, for them to free the man who's been doing thirty something years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. It obviously took a while, that's the whole plot of the book. I found it interesting that the wrongfully imprisoned wasn't willing to help the investigation, and was so scared. It really helped sell that this was a dangerous situation. Overall, I found this book extremely enjoyable.
I rate it five out of five stars!
Thirty years after the murder of Bella Davies’ mother and sisters, she hears a voice on the tv she never thought she’d hear again, the voice of the man who killed them. The only problem? There’s already a man serving time for their murder. Now, Bella is determined to get real justice. She reaches out to a podcaster, Cal Lovett, who is dealing with his own demons, but when she tells him the situation they both know they need to get justice, for both the dead and the living.
I enjoyed this more than I expected to. With Cal being a podcaster, admittedly I expected to find him annoying and not like him much, but I was wrong. He's a very empathetic character, the kind of guy you root for. He's clearly got his own issues and personal demons, but that just makes him a more interesting character. Bella is also a very moving character. As the lone survivor of a triple homocide, she's clearly got baggage, but it's also over thirty years later and she's got her own family now. She's the same age as her mother when the murder happened, which I found probably more heartbreaking than I should.
I was eager for justice to happen, for them to free the man who's been doing thirty something years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. It obviously took a while, that's the whole plot of the book. I found it interesting that the wrongfully imprisoned wasn't willing to help the investigation, and was so scared. It really helped sell that this was a dangerous situation. Overall, I found this book extremely enjoyable.
I rate it five out of five stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I want to - NO!! - I NEED to read this series from the beginning!
Heather Critchlow is a new author for me, and this book gripped me from the beginning. I honestly could not put it down.
I am reading the first book in the series now, but this can be read as a standalone, as Cal's search and journey to find his sister's killer has been well explained.
Cal is a mild man - but like all of us, has hidden rage deep inside him, which doesn't come out often. He has choices to make in this book, hard choices, revengeful choices, and he has a hard time choosing.
I love that he is a family man. He is happy, and his wife knows that he has to investigate the case his podcast is covering.
I am halfway through the 1st book, and can see how his relationship with Sarah, his podcast partner has changed - for the better.
To say I enjoyed this book is an understatement. It will stay with me for a long time.
Injustice has to be fought, and justice meted out.
Emotional, and the scenes where Bella visits her old home are beautifully written. I could feel the joy she shared with her sisters and mother.
Suspense builds up, and there are twists, but on the whole, this is an excellent book.
I highly recommend.
A very worthy 5/5 stars from me.
Heather Critchlow is a new author for me, and this book gripped me from the beginning. I honestly could not put it down.
I am reading the first book in the series now, but this can be read as a standalone, as Cal's search and journey to find his sister's killer has been well explained.
Cal is a mild man - but like all of us, has hidden rage deep inside him, which doesn't come out often. He has choices to make in this book, hard choices, revengeful choices, and he has a hard time choosing.
I love that he is a family man. He is happy, and his wife knows that he has to investigate the case his podcast is covering.
I am halfway through the 1st book, and can see how his relationship with Sarah, his podcast partner has changed - for the better.
To say I enjoyed this book is an understatement. It will stay with me for a long time.
Injustice has to be fought, and justice meted out.
Emotional, and the scenes where Bella visits her old home are beautifully written. I could feel the joy she shared with her sisters and mother.
Suspense builds up, and there are twists, but on the whole, this is an excellent book.
I highly recommend.
A very worthy 5/5 stars from me.
August 3, 2026
Absolutely loved this book. I've read all the others in the series and they're all stunning. Each can be read as a standalone as Heather slots in enough backstory to keep new readers in the loop.
Unseen has its dark moments - some very dark. But then you are dealing with historic murder cases. There are also some extremel tense high-stakes moments which had my heart hammering like Billy O. But the darkness is tempered by tender moments, and those full of hope, which is what makes this series so readable.
I love reading about ordinary folk facing extraordinary circumstances and the basic humanity in the main characters makes the darkness just a little bit lighter.
When a survivor of a long ago murderer who killed her mother and siblings realises that the man locked up for the crimes is not the killer she approaches podcaster and investigator Cal Lovett.
From there we're taken on a journey that causes huge stress to both Cal and his client.
With links to the killer of Cal's own sister this case can't be any more personal.
Brilliant characterisation, beautifully paced and with a fascinating storyline this was an easy 5 star read for me.
Unseen has its dark moments - some very dark. But then you are dealing with historic murder cases. There are also some extremel tense high-stakes moments which had my heart hammering like Billy O. But the darkness is tempered by tender moments, and those full of hope, which is what makes this series so readable.
I love reading about ordinary folk facing extraordinary circumstances and the basic humanity in the main characters makes the darkness just a little bit lighter.
When a survivor of a long ago murderer who killed her mother and siblings realises that the man locked up for the crimes is not the killer she approaches podcaster and investigator Cal Lovett.
From there we're taken on a journey that causes huge stress to both Cal and his client.
With links to the killer of Cal's own sister this case can't be any more personal.
Brilliant characterisation, beautifully paced and with a fascinating storyline this was an easy 5 star read for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A moody and suspenseful murder mystery set against the rugged beauty of Scotland.
Thankyou to NetGalley and Canelo for the ARC My review is voluntary,
Podcaster Lovett wants nothing more than to see his sister’s murderer brought to justice. New evidence suggests the man may also have been responsible for the murder of Bella Davies’ family. However, another man confessed to that crime decades ago and, thirty years later, still languishes in prison, steadfastly refusing to retract his confession.
Lovett being a true crime podcaster, with transcripts from his broadcasts woven into the novel, is a clever touch that gives the story a modern vibe. But the idea that some characters would talk to him and even confess, feels a bit far-fetched. Likewise, letting his daughter get involved, no matter her age, doesn’t seem believable.Still, it’s the kind of book where an amateur sleuth solves the case, so a bit of poetic license is expected and easily forgiven because it’s such an enjoyable read.
Thankyou to NetGalley and Canelo for the ARC My review is voluntary,
Podcaster Lovett wants nothing more than to see his sister’s murderer brought to justice. New evidence suggests the man may also have been responsible for the murder of Bella Davies’ family. However, another man confessed to that crime decades ago and, thirty years later, still languishes in prison, steadfastly refusing to retract his confession.
Lovett being a true crime podcaster, with transcripts from his broadcasts woven into the novel, is a clever touch that gives the story a modern vibe. But the idea that some characters would talk to him and even confess, feels a bit far-fetched. Likewise, letting his daughter get involved, no matter her age, doesn’t seem believable.Still, it’s the kind of book where an amateur sleuth solves the case, so a bit of poetic license is expected and easily forgiven because it’s such an enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I couldn’t wait to get started on this, the fifth and final book in the Cal Lovett series.
As with all the others, you are straight into the action and there is never a dull moment!! So much happens between the pages of this one.
There’s drama, suspense, suspicion but at the heart, love, care and compassion. The characters all come to life as Cal takes on maybe one of his biggest, more personal cases. Can this seemingly unrelated case hold the details and answers that he hopes for the most?
Just when you think you have a hold on things, nope!! Something else happens which makes you question what you thought!
I love seeing Chrissie’s character grow and the relationships develop with Shona. Of course Rocket is an absolute favourite, and my heart went out to him in this one.
So if you have been following this series, you are in for a journey let me tell you! If you haven’t, seek out book one now!
As with all the others, you are straight into the action and there is never a dull moment!! So much happens between the pages of this one.
There’s drama, suspense, suspicion but at the heart, love, care and compassion. The characters all come to life as Cal takes on maybe one of his biggest, more personal cases. Can this seemingly unrelated case hold the details and answers that he hopes for the most?
Just when you think you have a hold on things, nope!! Something else happens which makes you question what you thought!
I love seeing Chrissie’s character grow and the relationships develop with Shona. Of course Rocket is an absolute favourite, and my heart went out to him in this one.
So if you have been following this series, you are in for a journey let me tell you! If you haven’t, seek out book one now!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Scottish. Murderous. Unmissable.
The combination of a decades-old cold case, a true crime podcaster and the possibility that the wrong man was convicted had me hooked from the start. I really liked how the investigation unfolded, gradually revealing new pieces of the puzzle without giving too much away. Every time I thought I had a handle on where it was going, something else made me question it.
The Scottish setting added plenty of atmosphere, and I continue to enjoy Cal as a main character. He’s determined to get answers, but never loses sight of the people at the heart of each case, which makes him easy to root for.
Although this is the fifth book in the series, the mystery stands well on its own while also bringing Cal’s own story a little closer to home. It felt like a fitting conclusion, although I wouldn’t complain if Heather Critchlow decided there was another Cal Lovett story to tell.
The combination of a decades-old cold case, a true crime podcaster and the possibility that the wrong man was convicted had me hooked from the start. I really liked how the investigation unfolded, gradually revealing new pieces of the puzzle without giving too much away. Every time I thought I had a handle on where it was going, something else made me question it.
The Scottish setting added plenty of atmosphere, and I continue to enjoy Cal as a main character. He’s determined to get answers, but never loses sight of the people at the heart of each case, which makes him easy to root for.
Although this is the fifth book in the series, the mystery stands well on its own while also bringing Cal’s own story a little closer to home. It felt like a fitting conclusion, although I wouldn’t complain if Heather Critchlow decided there was another Cal Lovett story to tell.
July 30, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy.
I really enjoyed Unseen. The premise immediately caught my attention: when Bella hears the voice of the man convicted of murdering her mother and sisters nearly forty years earlier on television, she knows the wrong person was jailed. Turning to true crime podcaster Cal Lovett to uncover the truth sets in motion a tense and compelling investigation.
I enjoyed following Cal and Bella as they unravel decades of buried secrets. Both characters felt believable, and I found myself invested in finding out what had really happened all those years ago.
The pacing was steady, with enough twists to keep me guessing, and the story balances the investigation with strong character development.
An atmospheric, character-driven mystery with an original premise and a satisfying blend of cold case investigation and psychological suspense. A solid four stars.
I really enjoyed Unseen. The premise immediately caught my attention: when Bella hears the voice of the man convicted of murdering her mother and sisters nearly forty years earlier on television, she knows the wrong person was jailed. Turning to true crime podcaster Cal Lovett to uncover the truth sets in motion a tense and compelling investigation.
I enjoyed following Cal and Bella as they unravel decades of buried secrets. Both characters felt believable, and I found myself invested in finding out what had really happened all those years ago.
The pacing was steady, with enough twists to keep me guessing, and the story balances the investigation with strong character development.
An atmospheric, character-driven mystery with an original premise and a satisfying blend of cold case investigation and psychological suspense. A solid four stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was my first time reading this wonderful author. I was mesmerised by her writing style. The words just seemed to flow carelessly onto the page. And her descriptive writing allowed for my imagination to be taken away to another country of Scotland. I enjoyed the use of the Scottish language though out the book and while the storyline is focused on a true crime podcaster, Cal, it has just the right amount of podcast scenes to storytelling throughout. Once I started, I just couldn’t put it down. I needed to know what happened to Bella that fateful day and it certainly delivered. It had me on the edge of my seat and the fire scene had my heart racing, especially for Rocket. It is a part of a series but you can certainly read it as a standalone. I’ll be reading the first 4 for sure and I’ll be adding Heather to my auto read authors list. Thank you NetGalley and Canelo publishers for the opportunity to advance read this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the perfect ending to a fabulous series. I absolutely loved all of Heather Critchlow’s Cal Lovett books, but Unseen is by far my favourite.
In Unseen, true crime podcaster, Cal, is asked by a woman to investigate the murder of her mother and sisters, a notorious case that was considered cut and dried by the police. A man has been jailed based on his own confession and has never tried to regain his freedom.
Interweaving with Cal’s own story, this case takes him closer to the edge than ever before. It’s exciting, it pushes Cal, and those he loves, into the depths and tests his own moral code as never before.
This is a fabulous story with all the feels, lots of angst and beautiful lyrical writing. If you love thrillers with emotional depth, these books are definitely for you . You can start the series with Unsolved and I definitely recommend reading them all in order for Cal’s own story which I have loved every step of the way.
In Unseen, true crime podcaster, Cal, is asked by a woman to investigate the murder of her mother and sisters, a notorious case that was considered cut and dried by the police. A man has been jailed based on his own confession and has never tried to regain his freedom.
Interweaving with Cal’s own story, this case takes him closer to the edge than ever before. It’s exciting, it pushes Cal, and those he loves, into the depths and tests his own moral code as never before.
This is a fabulous story with all the feels, lots of angst and beautiful lyrical writing. If you love thrillers with emotional depth, these books are definitely for you . You can start the series with Unsolved and I definitely recommend reading them all in order for Cal’s own story which I have loved every step of the way.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bella Davis is the sole survivor of a brutal attack which killed her mother and three sisters when she was still a child. The trauma left gaps in her memory that have never been fully addressed, even though a man was convicted for the murders of her family members.
Now an unexpected discovery leads Bella to question whether in fact the wrong man is serving a custodial sentence for the killings. And when she shows up on his doorstep asking for his assistance, the last thing that podcaster Cal Lovett expects to discover is a possible link to the case that has shaped his entire life and career - namely, the murder of his sister Margot.
This is the beautifully written conclusion to a series that has been consistently insightful, gripping, and above all, immensely human. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Now an unexpected discovery leads Bella to question whether in fact the wrong man is serving a custodial sentence for the killings. And when she shows up on his doorstep asking for his assistance, the last thing that podcaster Cal Lovett expects to discover is a possible link to the case that has shaped his entire life and career - namely, the murder of his sister Margot.
This is the beautifully written conclusion to a series that has been consistently insightful, gripping, and above all, immensely human. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The fifth book in the series reaches a gripping conclusion in the Cal Lovett files - true crime podcaster series, which has followed Cal seeking justice for victims, their families and for his sister Margo who was brutally murdered without anyone being held responsible.
What I particularly liked about this book is the pod cast investigation was centred around Izzy/Belle finding the true murderer of her family believing the wrong person could have been imprisoned.
This book theme is more personal to Cal throughout with the possibility of Cal finding justice for his sister through another murder enquiry so both murder cases become intertwined.
I loved reading this series as a whole and would definitely recommend other readers to read this series and I will miss reading this series and all the characters I have grown to love now it has drawn to a conclusion.
What I particularly liked about this book is the pod cast investigation was centred around Izzy/Belle finding the true murderer of her family believing the wrong person could have been imprisoned.
This book theme is more personal to Cal throughout with the possibility of Cal finding justice for his sister through another murder enquiry so both murder cases become intertwined.
I loved reading this series as a whole and would definitely recommend other readers to read this series and I will miss reading this series and all the characters I have grown to love now it has drawn to a conclusion.
September 7, 2026
This true crime story was so gripping, and I was completely hooked until the very end. Even though I haven’t read the previous instalments in this series, that didn’t hinder my enjoyment of the story. With the events unfolding seamlessly, I loved how skilfully the author wove the story together with such vivid and descriptive writing. The atmospheric and immersive storytelling made everything so easy to imagine and kept me engaged throughout the read.
The characters are well developed and have great emotional depth. The multiple POVs gave me an insight into the minds of the main characters, which made the story even more interesting and added depth to the overall narrative.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-written true crime story with intriguing characters, suspense, and plenty of twists.
The characters are well developed and have great emotional depth. The multiple POVs gave me an insight into the minds of the main characters, which made the story even more interesting and added depth to the overall narrative.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a well-written true crime story with intriguing characters, suspense, and plenty of twists.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really like this series, and enjoyed that this one involves more of Cal's background, as he still struggles with the loss of his older sister when he was young. Cal is happy to see the man who kidnapped him and who killed his sister get another jail sentence. Then he meets Bella, a survivor of a heinous crime as a child, where her mother and 2 sisters were murdered and she was left for dead. The deaths have overshadowed her whole life. Now she is having doubts that the man who was convicted, is the man who actually committed the murders and she turns to Cal for help. The book moves quickly when it needs to, and slowly when it is reflecting on the past, as Cal and Bella investigate together. I did see the ending coming, but that doesn't take away from the book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the fifth book in the Cal Lovett Files Series. It’s not a series I’ve read before and I don’t think I missed anything.
I was intrigued by the main character being a true crime podcaster. The podcast component was incorporated naturally into the narrative without it feeling gimmicky.
Each character had a distinct voice which was felt during their POV chapters. It did take me awhile to settle into the multiple POVs but once I did I was thoroughly engaged.
Overall, this was an atmospheric crime thriller that was character driven and suspenseful. I would recommend to crime and thriller readers as I think they will each enjoy different elements of the novel.
Due to be published August 20. Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the ARC
I was intrigued by the main character being a true crime podcaster. The podcast component was incorporated naturally into the narrative without it feeling gimmicky.
Each character had a distinct voice which was felt during their POV chapters. It did take me awhile to settle into the multiple POVs but once I did I was thoroughly engaged.
Overall, this was an atmospheric crime thriller that was character driven and suspenseful. I would recommend to crime and thriller readers as I think they will each enjoy different elements of the novel.
Due to be published August 20. Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the ARC
August 22, 2026
Another good outing for true crime podcaster sleuth Cal Lovett.
He's asked to investigate a case that was closed 40 years earlier when a man was convicted of the savage murder of a woman and two of her young children. Now her third child, who survived the attack, starts to have doubts about the conviction.
Cal's investigation leads him into unexpected danger and also back to another case, the one that has haunted his family for almost his entire life.
It's the fifth and final (for now) book in the series but, because the opening chapters provide a recap, it can be read as a standalone.
An enjoyable and fluently written read.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy.
He's asked to investigate a case that was closed 40 years earlier when a man was convicted of the savage murder of a woman and two of her young children. Now her third child, who survived the attack, starts to have doubts about the conviction.
Cal's investigation leads him into unexpected danger and also back to another case, the one that has haunted his family for almost his entire life.
It's the fifth and final (for now) book in the series but, because the opening chapters provide a recap, it can be read as a standalone.
An enjoyable and fluently written read.
With thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early copy.
July 6, 2026
A fast-paced, thrilling and well-written addition to the Cal Lovett series. I was gutted to see that it is the last in the series (for now at least).
Critchlow writes fantastically, creating authentic, well-developed and likeable characters. The story itself is full of suspense, twists and turns and vivid descriptions. I found Bella's story tragic and empathised strongly with her. I enjoyed the way her story tied together with Cal's and felt satisfied with the conclusion. I hope we see more from Cal in the future, but if not, I look forward to any further works Critchlow produces.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the ARC.
Critchlow writes fantastically, creating authentic, well-developed and likeable characters. The story itself is full of suspense, twists and turns and vivid descriptions. I found Bella's story tragic and empathised strongly with her. I enjoyed the way her story tied together with Cal's and felt satisfied with the conclusion. I hope we see more from Cal in the future, but if not, I look forward to any further works Critchlow produces.
Highly recommended.
Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Unseen is told from various pov's along with the insertion of Cal's podcast which drives the story along at a good pace. Not only does he help to try and solve an old case but also then find out who is responsible and this ties in nicely with him still searching for the killer of his sister many years ago. The story highlights the lasting effect which grief can have on people too and is handled in a sensitive way by the author. Although it appears to be Cal's last case, the book finishes with a question mark as to whether this may be the case or not !
Thanks to Netgalley/Canelo for the ARC to review
Thanks to Netgalley/Canelo for the ARC to review
August 30, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Canelo for allowing me an Advanced Copy of this book! I had not previously read any of Heather Critchlow's titles, but I for sure will add her as a must read author. The writing in this book was spectacular, I was drawn into the story with every page. I didn't feel like I had to have read any of the other books in this universe, I probably would have just gotten more of Cal's story. His journey to find the truth is a ruthless one, but understandable. I very much enjoyed the twists and turns of this story, I definitely did not see most of them coming! I felt the emotions of the characters coming off of the page, and felt for their stories. I will definitely be reading more by Heather in the future.
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