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The Family Friend
PRE ORDER THE NAIL-BITING NEW THRILLER FROM THE NUMBER ONE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER
'Claire Douglas is a class act - she never, ever disappoints' LISA JEWELL
When Imogen is told she’s inherited a country house near Bath, she thinks it must be a mistake. She last saw its owner, reclusive artist Dorothea Roe, sixteen years ago, during a tragic summer which changed her life for ever.
Now, with partner Josh in tow, it’s a chance for a fresh start.
But after discovering an old box with her name on it in Dorothea’s abandoned study, Imogen starts to believe the woman was trying to send her a secret message.
And when rumours begin to swirl that Dorothea was murdered, she starts to suspect that this gift might not be the life-line she thought it was.
Who would want to kill Dorothea?
Could it be tangled up in Imogen’s own dark family history?
And what if Imogen is now the one in danger?
PRAISE FOR CLAIRE DOUGLAS
'Douglas is a master storyteller' JANICE HALLETT
'Douglas is the queen of the unexpected twist' GILLIAN MCALLISTER
'Claire Douglas is the Queen of Gripping Pageturners' CL TAYLOR
'Claire Douglas is a class act - she never, ever disappoints' LISA JEWELL
When Imogen is told she’s inherited a country house near Bath, she thinks it must be a mistake. She last saw its owner, reclusive artist Dorothea Roe, sixteen years ago, during a tragic summer which changed her life for ever.
Now, with partner Josh in tow, it’s a chance for a fresh start.
But after discovering an old box with her name on it in Dorothea’s abandoned study, Imogen starts to believe the woman was trying to send her a secret message.
And when rumours begin to swirl that Dorothea was murdered, she starts to suspect that this gift might not be the life-line she thought it was.
Who would want to kill Dorothea?
Could it be tangled up in Imogen’s own dark family history?
And what if Imogen is now the one in danger?
PRAISE FOR CLAIRE DOUGLAS
'Douglas is a master storyteller' JANICE HALLETT
'Douglas is the queen of the unexpected twist' GILLIAN MCALLISTER
'Claire Douglas is the Queen of Gripping Pageturners' CL TAYLOR
373 pages, Hardcover
First published March 12, 2026
About the author
Claire Douglas
26 books6,777 followersClaire Douglas always wanted to write novels and, after many years of trying to get published, her dream came true when she won the Marie Claire Debut Novel Award in 2013 with THE SISTERS.
Her second and third novels, LOCAL GIRL MISSING and LAST SEEN ALIVE (Penguin), are Sunday Times bestsellers.
Her second and third novels, LOCAL GIRL MISSING and LAST SEEN ALIVE (Penguin), are Sunday Times bestsellers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 409 reviews
April 2, 2026
3.5 Stars
Love this author but couldn't get into this book.
Imogen unexpectedly inherits a villa from a family friend Dorothea whom her mother used to clean for.
Imogen discovers all kinds of secrets about Dorothea and her own family.
Imogens mother was murdered by her father who is now serving a lifetime in jail.
Imogens sister Alison isn't sure her father did it.
The story goes back forty years to Dorothea and Imogen in the present.
Lots of twists and well written but I really couldn't engage myself in the story.
Love this author but couldn't get into this book.
Imogen unexpectedly inherits a villa from a family friend Dorothea whom her mother used to clean for.
Imogen discovers all kinds of secrets about Dorothea and her own family.
Imogens mother was murdered by her father who is now serving a lifetime in jail.
Imogens sister Alison isn't sure her father did it.
The story goes back forty years to Dorothea and Imogen in the present.
Lots of twists and well written but I really couldn't engage myself in the story.
May 10, 2026
This book started so fast and gripped me from the start, I was completely hooked. It was perfectly eerie and suspenseful but it felt like the book slowed down from about halfway for me and I started to lose interest a little.. still a very good Claire Douglas, not my favourite by her but would absolutely recommend as it picked up at the end with a satisfying finale.
March 23, 2026
dual timelines packed
with commentary about
abusive relationships and
sorority: deep, compelling
and full of plot twists. ♡
with commentary about
abusive relationships and
sorority: deep, compelling
and full of plot twists. ♡
April 15, 2026
Bang average. I want a thriller to knock my socks off and this just wasn’t it. Back to the historical fiction I go x
May 2, 2026
One day, Imogen cannot believe it when she inherits a country house—and enough money to run it—from Dorothea, an old family friend she hadn't seen in years. However, she discovers an old box with her name on it and believes Dorothea is trying to send her a message.
Claire Douglas is an auto-read author for me; I find I can rely on her books for a great read.
I liked the plot of this story and found the characters entertaining. It was mostly a fast-paced read and easy to follow. It did get a little slow towards the end, but apart from that, it was an enjoyable read.
Claire Douglas is an auto-read author for me; I find I can rely on her books for a great read.
I liked the plot of this story and found the characters entertaining. It was mostly a fast-paced read and easy to follow. It did get a little slow towards the end, but apart from that, it was an enjoyable read.
March 17, 2026
The book was okay. I think it was a solid 3,5⭐️ I didn’t guess the plot twist but it didn’t shock me nor did it annoy me
March 26, 2026
2 stars
Far too long, things that bear too little relevance were explored in too much depth and the ending felt rushed and unrealistic.
Far too long, things that bear too little relevance were explored in too much depth and the ending felt rushed and unrealistic.
March 22, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 Brilliant as always from one of my fav authors. A superb blend of creepiness mixed with underlying tension.
January 19, 2026
Thank you so much to Netgalley for giving me this free advance copy, and I’m writing this review honestly and without bias.
I do love a Claire Douglas novel as you know you're in for a cracking read. And what a cracker this was! An intriguing and well plotted mystery that oozes in suspense with a somewhat eerie feel to it. There are some great well developed characters in this story spearheaded by Imogen as she tries to unravel the clues left by Dorothea. Told in the present and with chapters from Dorothea going back in time gives the story an edge. A dark and twisty read with a surprising culprit gives the very talented Ms Douglas another sure fire best seller. Loved this one and it gets all the stars
February 12, 2026
How Claire Douglas writes a truly flawless, unique, unguessable thriller YEARLY is beyond my comprehension
May 2, 2026
2.5 / 5.0
Honestly I think every-time I read a book from Douglas she’s always trying to do a two plot story, one dated far back and one concurrent and always thinks that she can pull off the timeframe trick. At one point, we are going 49 years before time. The constant change in time frame, mixed in with different POVs made the book harder to understand and click. I don’t know why adding or introducing this confusion within a book makes author believes it’s going to be a banger - it isnt. The constant change in POV then going back in time stalled and slowed down a great plot building. The confusion, built in with multiple POVs took away from the story naturally telling itself. Things kinda felt forced to develop, things occurring in the plot just felt ‘well timed’. I also think Douglas is a fan of creating some of the most unlikable characters, because I just didn’t vibe with the characters. Overall it’s a mid tier book, not a banger.
The story centres around Imogen and who has inherited a country house near Bath. She immediately thinks it’s a mistake, as the last time she saw it’s owner - a reclusive artist Dorothea Roe was sixteen years ago during a tragic summer where her Mother had passed. She’s with her partner Josh and it’s a chance for a fresh start. But the minute they both move into their house, Imogen discovers a box with her name in Dorothea’s old story and she starts to believe that the women was trying to send her a secret message. Then rumours begin to swirl that Dorothea was murdered and suspects the gift might not be the life line she thought it was.
Overall, it’s an ok book but very bland and typical Douglas fashion of confusing timelines and introduction of time frames within their POVs. Credit to Douglas’ marketing team for selling this book well.
Honestly I think every-time I read a book from Douglas she’s always trying to do a two plot story, one dated far back and one concurrent and always thinks that she can pull off the timeframe trick. At one point, we are going 49 years before time. The constant change in time frame, mixed in with different POVs made the book harder to understand and click. I don’t know why adding or introducing this confusion within a book makes author believes it’s going to be a banger - it isnt. The constant change in POV then going back in time stalled and slowed down a great plot building. The confusion, built in with multiple POVs took away from the story naturally telling itself. Things kinda felt forced to develop, things occurring in the plot just felt ‘well timed’. I also think Douglas is a fan of creating some of the most unlikable characters, because I just didn’t vibe with the characters. Overall it’s a mid tier book, not a banger.
The story centres around Imogen and who has inherited a country house near Bath. She immediately thinks it’s a mistake, as the last time she saw it’s owner - a reclusive artist Dorothea Roe was sixteen years ago during a tragic summer where her Mother had passed. She’s with her partner Josh and it’s a chance for a fresh start. But the minute they both move into their house, Imogen discovers a box with her name in Dorothea’s old story and she starts to believe that the women was trying to send her a secret message. Then rumours begin to swirl that Dorothea was murdered and suspects the gift might not be the life line she thought it was.
Overall, it’s an ok book but very bland and typical Douglas fashion of confusing timelines and introduction of time frames within their POVs. Credit to Douglas’ marketing team for selling this book well.
January 29, 2026
Imogen finds out she’s been left a house in a will, from Dorothea- someone she’s not seen for 16 years- but who had somewhat of an impact on her life at the time. She moves in with her boyfriend Josh, and then starts to think that there’s a reason she was left the house, and it’s to do with how Dorothea died.
I loved the premise of this book- although no-one wants people to die, the idea of being left a house in a will is exciting! And a bit of a twisty turny mystery in there too- with Imogen realising more about her own life, as well as that of Dorothea. It was a real page turner and finished it in a couple of days.
Having previously read and enjoyed several Claire Douglas books, I might see if there are any others I’ve not yet read!
I was given an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review.
I loved the premise of this book- although no-one wants people to die, the idea of being left a house in a will is exciting! And a bit of a twisty turny mystery in there too- with Imogen realising more about her own life, as well as that of Dorothea. It was a real page turner and finished it in a couple of days.
Having previously read and enjoyed several Claire Douglas books, I might see if there are any others I’ve not yet read!
I was given an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in return for my honest review.
March 12, 2026
After a difficult day, Imogen receives a letter that changes everything. A friend of her late mother has left her an unexpected inheritance: a sprawling mansion near Bath along with a generous sum of money. But the circumstances surrounding the inheritance are troubling, and the gift feels less like good fortune and more like the beginning of a mystery. Determined to uncover the truth, Imogen sets out to learn what really happened to the house’s former owner. Why was the estate left to her? What secrets does the mansion hold? And who might be connected to the crime at the heart of it all? This is a well-written, modern whodunit with a steady pace that keeps the intrigue building throughout.
May 1, 2026
Another great book from Claire Douglas ! Just goes to show you can’t always trust those closest to you ! Would definitely recommend
May 11, 2026
Really enjoyed this book. Great story. Well written. Plenty of intrigue to keep the reader guessing but never quite getting there until the end.
January 23, 2026
Claire Douglas is one of my favourite authors and this one did not disappoint!
The characters so well written some were definitely testing my patience!! I felt all the emotions!!
The twists they just kept coming !!
I was on edge the last couple of chapters literally couldn’t believe what I was reading it was sooooo good!!
I truly loved it and can’t wait to see what she writes next
The characters so well written some were definitely testing my patience!! I felt all the emotions!!
The twists they just kept coming !!
I was on edge the last couple of chapters literally couldn’t believe what I was reading it was sooooo good!!
I truly loved it and can’t wait to see what she writes next
March 17, 2026
Whilst I enjoyed reading this one, it wasn't my favourite Claire Douglas book that I have read so far. I found it a little far fetched and as more and more secrets were revealed this became more and more apparent. The boyfriend was a really unlikable character and I just wanted Imogen to tell him where to go. And to be honest despite inheriting the big house I was screaming internally at Imogen to get the heck out of there! All in all its a real suspenseful read and I would recommend it but its just not up there with my favourites from this author.
March 22, 2026
The three months of waiting for this book to come out, was worth EVERY SECOND!!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Time taken to read - 1 day
Pages - 400
Publisher - Michael Joseph books
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
When Imogen is told she’s inherited a country house near Bath, she thinks it must be a mistake. She last saw its owner, reclusive artist Dorothea Roe, sixteen years ago, during a tragic summer which changed her life for ever.
Now, with partner Josh in tow, it’s a chance for a fresh start.
But after discovering an old box with her name on it in Dorothea’s abandoned study, Imogen starts to believe the woman was trying to send her a secret message.
And when rumours begin to swirl that Dorothea was murdered, she starts to suspect that this gift might not be the life-line she thought it was.
Who would want to kill Dorothea?
Could it be tangled up in Imogen’s own dark family history?
And what if Imogen is now the one in danger?
My Review
The book flips between two characters, Dorothea, initially the incident that kicks everything off and then when we go to her chapters back through the years. And Imogen, Imogen met Dorothea years ago when her and her mum escaped DV from her father. Dorothea is an artist, eccentric, famous, rich and has more than a few secrets. Imogen's mum was a cleaner for Dorothea but they became friends and when they needed help, Dorothea offered her home. For four months a young Imogen flourishes and blooms but then her mum goes back to her dad and everything goes to pot. That was years ago, now Imogen has been left with everything and Dorothea's passing is looking like foul play. Is Imogen in danger and who is hanging around Dorothea's, well now Imogen's home.
There is so so much going on in this book! Like an onion, layers are revealed as we plough through, Dorothea has secrets, Imogen has a lot in her past and is off work pending investigation. Now out of the blue everything is changing, her journalist inquisitiveness is kicking off and Imogen thinks maybe that is why Dorothea done what she has done, she knew what Imogen would be like. So whilst Imogen is digging and exploring the house she has such fond memories of as a kid her boyfriend is along for the journey. The boyfriend!!!!! I didn't like him very quickly and as the book goes on oh my God I HATED him, he is such a tool and his behaviour and attitude I absolutely wanted Imogen to go full throtto on him. You know me I LOVE karma and people getting their comeuppance.
My last book before this I enjoyed but took me I think a week as I had a bit of readers block, this I read in less than 24 hours! Douglas has a way of drawing you in, one I am nosey so I wanted to know exactly what was going on, what happened, what was Dorothea hiding, what things does Imogine not like about her boyfriend, oh who is that, oh why did that happen, like there was so many twists and things thrown up! Hooked, absolutely hooked and more mysteries or secrets were coming and I love when a book does that. Sometimes when there is a fair few characters or a lot going on and or different timelines it can be really distracting especially when you have readers block but I was completely tuned in. That is always a testament to the authors writing, I have read this author before in the past but I absolutely need to check out her back catalogue. Thanks so much to the publisher for sending me an arc, helping me over my reading blip and reminding me how much I enjoy this authors writing, 4.5/5 for me. The book is out on the 12th of March but you can pre order now, its a belter!
Pages - 400
Publisher - Michael Joseph books
Source - ARC
Blurb from Goodreads
When Imogen is told she’s inherited a country house near Bath, she thinks it must be a mistake. She last saw its owner, reclusive artist Dorothea Roe, sixteen years ago, during a tragic summer which changed her life for ever.
Now, with partner Josh in tow, it’s a chance for a fresh start.
But after discovering an old box with her name on it in Dorothea’s abandoned study, Imogen starts to believe the woman was trying to send her a secret message.
And when rumours begin to swirl that Dorothea was murdered, she starts to suspect that this gift might not be the life-line she thought it was.
Who would want to kill Dorothea?
Could it be tangled up in Imogen’s own dark family history?
And what if Imogen is now the one in danger?
My Review
The book flips between two characters, Dorothea, initially the incident that kicks everything off and then when we go to her chapters back through the years. And Imogen, Imogen met Dorothea years ago when her and her mum escaped DV from her father. Dorothea is an artist, eccentric, famous, rich and has more than a few secrets. Imogen's mum was a cleaner for Dorothea but they became friends and when they needed help, Dorothea offered her home. For four months a young Imogen flourishes and blooms but then her mum goes back to her dad and everything goes to pot. That was years ago, now Imogen has been left with everything and Dorothea's passing is looking like foul play. Is Imogen in danger and who is hanging around Dorothea's, well now Imogen's home.
There is so so much going on in this book! Like an onion, layers are revealed as we plough through, Dorothea has secrets, Imogen has a lot in her past and is off work pending investigation. Now out of the blue everything is changing, her journalist inquisitiveness is kicking off and Imogen thinks maybe that is why Dorothea done what she has done, she knew what Imogen would be like. So whilst Imogen is digging and exploring the house she has such fond memories of as a kid her boyfriend is along for the journey. The boyfriend!!!!! I didn't like him very quickly and as the book goes on oh my God I HATED him, he is such a tool and his behaviour and attitude I absolutely wanted Imogen to go full throtto on him. You know me I LOVE karma and people getting their comeuppance.
My last book before this I enjoyed but took me I think a week as I had a bit of readers block, this I read in less than 24 hours! Douglas has a way of drawing you in, one I am nosey so I wanted to know exactly what was going on, what happened, what was Dorothea hiding, what things does Imogine not like about her boyfriend, oh who is that, oh why did that happen, like there was so many twists and things thrown up! Hooked, absolutely hooked and more mysteries or secrets were coming and I love when a book does that. Sometimes when there is a fair few characters or a lot going on and or different timelines it can be really distracting especially when you have readers block but I was completely tuned in. That is always a testament to the authors writing, I have read this author before in the past but I absolutely need to check out her back catalogue. Thanks so much to the publisher for sending me an arc, helping me over my reading blip and reminding me how much I enjoy this authors writing, 4.5/5 for me. The book is out on the 12th of March but you can pre order now, its a belter!
March 30, 2026
Imogen is stunned to inherit a country house near Bath and suspects it may be a mistake connected to the reclusive artist Dorothea Roe, whom she hasn’t seen in sixteen years. While exploring Dorothea's study, she finds an ancient box that she initially believes may hold a hidden message. However, when rumours begin to spread that Dorothea may have been murdered, Imogen starts to wonder if the mysterious box could actually be the key to uncovering the truth.
Claire Douglas's latest release is one that I was looking forward to, and this one opens strongly with a familiar premise and engaging first chapter. Told through multiple perspectives and across different timelines, the story is skillfully layered, and Douglas's writing is immersive. The setting was a highlight and the idyllic Regency villa in Bath, combined with simmering family tensions, gave this story a moody and gothic edge.
While the mystery itself was intricate and complex, I found the overall plot and pacing lagged in places and the characters didn't always grab me, making it hard to stay fully engaged. Despite this, the story wasn’t entirely disappointing, and I’d still recommend it to fans of psychological suspense that delves into family drama and hidden secrets.
3.5⭐️
Claire Douglas's latest release is one that I was looking forward to, and this one opens strongly with a familiar premise and engaging first chapter. Told through multiple perspectives and across different timelines, the story is skillfully layered, and Douglas's writing is immersive. The setting was a highlight and the idyllic Regency villa in Bath, combined with simmering family tensions, gave this story a moody and gothic edge.
While the mystery itself was intricate and complex, I found the overall plot and pacing lagged in places and the characters didn't always grab me, making it hard to stay fully engaged. Despite this, the story wasn’t entirely disappointing, and I’d still recommend it to fans of psychological suspense that delves into family drama and hidden secrets.
3.5⭐️
March 4, 2026
Claire Douglas fans will not be disappointed, this is a great read, filled with intrigue, mystery and suspense.
Imogen has been left a house with its own woods by Dorothea who she has not seen for 16 years, Imogen is excited to be moving in to her new home along with her boyfriend Josh who can’t quite believe their good fortune.
The story is told in the present but with chapters from Dorothea which go back in time.
Imogen discovers Dorothea died in suspicious circumstances and her reporter nose is telling her there is a story to be told, so she begins her own investigation. She discoveries a bunker which has one surviving statue from the fire which destroyed the rest of Dorothea’s collection that she had been working on, There are miniature clues on the statue & Imogen is determined to piece the puzzle together and get to the truth.
Some interesting characters to add to the story, great descriptive writing and lots of twists right to the end.
Another 5 star read from Claire Douglas
Many thanks to NetGalley, Michael Joseph & Penguin Random House for an ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
Imogen has been left a house with its own woods by Dorothea who she has not seen for 16 years, Imogen is excited to be moving in to her new home along with her boyfriend Josh who can’t quite believe their good fortune.
The story is told in the present but with chapters from Dorothea which go back in time.
Imogen discovers Dorothea died in suspicious circumstances and her reporter nose is telling her there is a story to be told, so she begins her own investigation. She discoveries a bunker which has one surviving statue from the fire which destroyed the rest of Dorothea’s collection that she had been working on, There are miniature clues on the statue & Imogen is determined to piece the puzzle together and get to the truth.
Some interesting characters to add to the story, great descriptive writing and lots of twists right to the end.
Another 5 star read from Claire Douglas
Many thanks to NetGalley, Michael Joseph & Penguin Random House for an ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
The Family Friend is another gripping, twisty read from one of my favourite crime writers.
The story is told from two timelines. In the present day we follow Imogen who is surprised to inherit a family friend's fortune who she discovers died in suspicious circumstances. In the past we follow Dorothea (the family friend) as we discover the events in her past that might have led to her death.
It was great fun following Imogen on her investigation into Dorothea's death as she tries to solve some cryptic clues Dorothea left on a statue she was creating at the time of her death. There are some other threads running alongside the main murder mystery which were interesting to watch unfold too, especially as they helped give more of an insight into some of the characters and why they might act the way they do.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story which I think might be my favourite Claire Douglas book yet! I thought the story had a great pace to it and there was always something happening to ensure I kept reading. The many twists kept me on my toes and I was ultimately unable to guess the murderer which I always love.
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
The Family Friend is another gripping, twisty read from one of my favourite crime writers.
The story is told from two timelines. In the present day we follow Imogen who is surprised to inherit a family friend's fortune who she discovers died in suspicious circumstances. In the past we follow Dorothea (the family friend) as we discover the events in her past that might have led to her death.
It was great fun following Imogen on her investigation into Dorothea's death as she tries to solve some cryptic clues Dorothea left on a statue she was creating at the time of her death. There are some other threads running alongside the main murder mystery which were interesting to watch unfold too, especially as they helped give more of an insight into some of the characters and why they might act the way they do.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story which I think might be my favourite Claire Douglas book yet! I thought the story had a great pace to it and there was always something happening to ensure I kept reading. The many twists kept me on my toes and I was ultimately unable to guess the murderer which I always love.
March 18, 2026
This book is pretty impressive as it tackles a lot of tricky, family and friend relationship issues.
Imogen (main character) and her sister have been through a lot in their lives and while the plot creates some problems it also helps show a way forward. Dorothea sounded like such an amazing woman. What a lovely character. Everyone in the book had depth and were significant. The males didn't come across very well. Disappointing but very likely accurate in real life.
The characters are very expertly crafted to give the reader many pauses for thought. The plot helps the reader to understand the many dilemmas faced in their lives. Decision making is never easy here!
Toxic relationships is a theme that is critically important and appears on a few different levels within the plot - some more subtle than others. It is amazing how these kinds of relationships can repeat even within one family. You think you might do better? Many people think like that until they experience what it can be like for themselves.
The book has a bit of a feel of a whodunnit but it is significanly more than that.
The ending was a surprise. I guess I could have done better with my guesses!
Full credit to Claire Douglas.
Imogen (main character) and her sister have been through a lot in their lives and while the plot creates some problems it also helps show a way forward. Dorothea sounded like such an amazing woman. What a lovely character. Everyone in the book had depth and were significant. The males didn't come across very well. Disappointing but very likely accurate in real life.
The characters are very expertly crafted to give the reader many pauses for thought. The plot helps the reader to understand the many dilemmas faced in their lives. Decision making is never easy here!
Toxic relationships is a theme that is critically important and appears on a few different levels within the plot - some more subtle than others. It is amazing how these kinds of relationships can repeat even within one family. You think you might do better? Many people think like that until they experience what it can be like for themselves.
The book has a bit of a feel of a whodunnit but it is significanly more than that.
The ending was a surprise. I guess I could have done better with my guesses!
Full credit to Claire Douglas.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Michael Joseph for letting me read an early copy of this book. As a fan of Claire Douglas' writing i just knew I would enjoy this one. The story was well thought out, with little twists and clues along the way. The characters were likeable, apart from the ones you were meant to hate and I really did hate them! The start was a little slow, with different timelines and POVs, but that last 30% I was totally gripped, I could not put the book down. The setting aswell (the villa) was so well described and so atmospheric, i think i want to move there myself. Overall, another great thriller from this author.
May 15, 2026
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
She took a secret to the grave…
Someone thinks you know it…
When renowned artist 🎨 Dorothea Roe is found dead in her home alone, a lot of questions arise. Was it an accident, or was it murder? 🤔
However, Imogen, a family friend of Dorothea, is told that she has inherited a country house 🏠 — a house she once lived in when she was just sixteen years old.
Everything comes as a shock to her, especially since she hasn’t spoken to Dorothea in a very long time.
This is an interesting and engaging domestic thriller where secrets are slowly revealed as the story unfolds.
I had fun reading this one.
She took a secret to the grave…
Someone thinks you know it…
When renowned artist 🎨 Dorothea Roe is found dead in her home alone, a lot of questions arise. Was it an accident, or was it murder? 🤔
However, Imogen, a family friend of Dorothea, is told that she has inherited a country house 🏠 — a house she once lived in when she was just sixteen years old.
Everything comes as a shock to her, especially since she hasn’t spoken to Dorothea in a very long time.
This is an interesting and engaging domestic thriller where secrets are slowly revealed as the story unfolds.
I had fun reading this one.
February 6, 2026
4.5 stars… gnargh rounded down. Though I’m still wavering between 4 and 5 stars on here (why can’t we have quarter or half stars again?). This was tense and gripping, with us seeing Imogen (and occasionally others)‘s point of view in forward, and Dorothea’s view in reverse time order. It touches on domestic violence and controlling behaviour, and what happened regarding Imogen’s mother’s death, if these might be triggering factors for readers to consider.
Ultimately I think it lands a little closer to 4 stars for me than a stand out 5 stars, but it’s a tight thing. I’d definitely recommend it if you enjoy books that will hook you in and make you stay up late to finish.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
Ultimately I think it lands a little closer to 4 stars for me than a stand out 5 stars, but it’s a tight thing. I’d definitely recommend it if you enjoy books that will hook you in and make you stay up late to finish.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
March 23, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Imogen inherits a large country house from an old family friend Dorothea a friend she hasn't seen in years. While exploring the house Imogen finds a box addressed to her and this sets her on a journey to find out what really happened to Dorothea.
I loved the dual timelines slowly bringing the past and present together. The atmosphere was tense but it was a little bit of a slow burn. The twists took me by surprise.
Thank you to Netgalley, Michael Joseph and Claire Douglas for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Imogen inherits a large country house from an old family friend Dorothea a friend she hasn't seen in years. While exploring the house Imogen finds a box addressed to her and this sets her on a journey to find out what really happened to Dorothea.
I loved the dual timelines slowly bringing the past and present together. The atmosphere was tense but it was a little bit of a slow burn. The twists took me by surprise.
Thank you to Netgalley, Michael Joseph and Claire Douglas for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2026
Pretty good, a few red herrings and I wasn't expecting the murderer to be who it was. Some very obvious parts but otherwise gripping.
April 15, 2026
Read this book in a day- I was completely hooked!!
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