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Not The Woman You Think
An anonymously written book.
A successful life at a breaking point.
An impossible choice.
With a meteoric career, a handsome, stable partner, a closet overflowing with luxury labels, and a bustling social calendar, Harriet’s glamorous life should be the envy of the small-town English friends she left behind years ago.
And yet, something doesn’t hold. She may have spent her twenties and thirties acquiring wealth and status, but her friends have found something she lacks: the lasting financial and emotional stability she craves.
Determined to take control, Harriet anonymously publishes an exposé about her life and relationship that rocks her social circles to the core. Stunned by its overnight success, she never anticipated the power it would have to upend everything.
Exposure threatens her career. It could destroy her relationship. It may shatter the carefully curated life she’s built.
Or it can set her free.
This razor-sharp exploration of female ambition, the price of success, and the hidden costs of modern relationships challenges today’s notions of perception versus reality in a status-driven world. Certain to spark book club debates and ignite group chats everywhere, Hazel Calder’s fierce debut is perfect for fans of Big Little Lies, All Her Fault, and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
A successful life at a breaking point.
An impossible choice.
With a meteoric career, a handsome, stable partner, a closet overflowing with luxury labels, and a bustling social calendar, Harriet’s glamorous life should be the envy of the small-town English friends she left behind years ago.
And yet, something doesn’t hold. She may have spent her twenties and thirties acquiring wealth and status, but her friends have found something she lacks: the lasting financial and emotional stability she craves.
Determined to take control, Harriet anonymously publishes an exposé about her life and relationship that rocks her social circles to the core. Stunned by its overnight success, she never anticipated the power it would have to upend everything.
Exposure threatens her career. It could destroy her relationship. It may shatter the carefully curated life she’s built.
Or it can set her free.
This razor-sharp exploration of female ambition, the price of success, and the hidden costs of modern relationships challenges today’s notions of perception versus reality in a status-driven world. Certain to spark book club debates and ignite group chats everywhere, Hazel Calder’s fierce debut is perfect for fans of Big Little Lies, All Her Fault, and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
257 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2026
About the author
Hazel Calder
1 book18 followersHazel Calder writes sharp, fast-paced women’s fiction about ambition, relationships, and the choices that shape our lives. Set in international, high-pressure worlds, her novels blend emotional depth with addictive storytelling.
Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan Middle East, The National, and other international publications.
She has spent much of her life living abroad.
Hazel Calder writes under a pen name.
Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan Middle East, The National, and other international publications.
She has spent much of her life living abroad.
Hazel Calder writes under a pen name.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
February 16, 2026
This debut novel turned out to be far more moving than I expected. I’ll admit the early reviews gave me pause, but once I started reading, it pulled me in completely, even though it’s not the kind of story I usually reach for. Being in my mid‑40s myself, many of the themes around aging, image, and the search for independence hit surprisingly close to home.
The book tackles these subjects with a raw honesty that’s sometimes uncomfortable but always deeply human. It’s a sharp, thought‑provoking look at modern relationships, the tension between who we are and who we present to the world, and the pressure society places on women as they grow older. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m genuinely curious to see where Harriet’s journey goes next. A stunning debut!
Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this.
The book tackles these subjects with a raw honesty that’s sometimes uncomfortable but always deeply human. It’s a sharp, thought‑provoking look at modern relationships, the tension between who we are and who we present to the world, and the pressure society places on women as they grow older. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m genuinely curious to see where Harriet’s journey goes next. A stunning debut!
Thank you NetGalley for letting me read this.
February 18, 2026
This is one of those books that feels uncomfortably close to real life — not because of big, dramatic plot twists, but because of the thinking behind the choices being made.
This is not a thriller. It sits much more firmly in psychological women’s fiction, and I think going in with that expectation is important. The tension here is internal, social, and relational rather than action-driven. It’s about power, security, perception, and survival — and how those things quietly shape the lives we build.
What really stood out to me was how real Harriet felt as a character. She isn’t written to be universally likeable, but she is deeply understandable. She’s observant, strategic, self-aware, and constantly calculating risk versus reward — emotionally, socially, and financially. She reads like someone you could genuinely meet, which honestly made parts of this story feel even sharper.
This story isn’t just character-driven — it’s belief-system driven.
Money = safety
Equality ≠ equity
Image = armour
Control = survival
Anonymity = protection
These ideas thread through the entire story. Yes, they’re reinforced — but because so much of the story sits inside Harriet’s internal monologue, it reads as layering rather than repetition. It builds a really clear picture of how she justifies her world and the choices she makes inside it.
I did notice some thematic repetition, but for me it felt intentional rather than filler. Harriet’s voice is very reflective and analytical, and the reinforcement of these ideas felt like psychological layering — showing how deeply those beliefs are wired into her worldview.
There were also lines in this book that really stuck with me, particularly:
“Power doesn’t always look like power — sometimes it looks like control.”
“Security and independence are not always the same thing.”
If you go into this expecting a fast-paced thriller, this might not land the way you expect. But if you enjoy character-driven psychological fiction that explores modern relationships, financial dynamics, and quiet power structures — this one is absolutely worth reading.
4.5⭐️
This is not a thriller. It sits much more firmly in psychological women’s fiction, and I think going in with that expectation is important. The tension here is internal, social, and relational rather than action-driven. It’s about power, security, perception, and survival — and how those things quietly shape the lives we build.
What really stood out to me was how real Harriet felt as a character. She isn’t written to be universally likeable, but she is deeply understandable. She’s observant, strategic, self-aware, and constantly calculating risk versus reward — emotionally, socially, and financially. She reads like someone you could genuinely meet, which honestly made parts of this story feel even sharper.
This story isn’t just character-driven — it’s belief-system driven.
Money = safety
Equality ≠ equity
Image = armour
Control = survival
Anonymity = protection
These ideas thread through the entire story. Yes, they’re reinforced — but because so much of the story sits inside Harriet’s internal monologue, it reads as layering rather than repetition. It builds a really clear picture of how she justifies her world and the choices she makes inside it.
I did notice some thematic repetition, but for me it felt intentional rather than filler. Harriet’s voice is very reflective and analytical, and the reinforcement of these ideas felt like psychological layering — showing how deeply those beliefs are wired into her worldview.
There were also lines in this book that really stuck with me, particularly:
“Power doesn’t always look like power — sometimes it looks like control.”
“Security and independence are not always the same thing.”
If you go into this expecting a fast-paced thriller, this might not land the way you expect. But if you enjoy character-driven psychological fiction that explores modern relationships, financial dynamics, and quiet power structures — this one is absolutely worth reading.
4.5⭐️
March 23, 2026
3.9⭐️
"What he calls "equality" is symmetry, and symmetry only works when both sides start from the same place."
The writing of this book was absolutely bingeable, I flew through it in a day. The story as well was quite unique - Harriet writes a book with very raw honesty about her life and she does so anonymously. But it blew up everywhere and now she doesn't know if she can protect her privacy. I don't mind reading books with unlikeable characters. Harriet was definitely insufferable... the kind of people I loathe - rich entitled brats whose lives revolve around luxury brands, matcha, pilaties, Alo, Nobu, brunches..... gods her biggest problems were hiding her luxury purchases from her partner. He was also a bit of an a**hole and I didn't get why they were together the relationship was so empty. I absolutely loved that this book was set in Dubai, the places were familiar and I could visualise. I think that Dubai was one of the main characters in the book haha. I do feel Harriet, because of her Dubai bling type lifestyle expectations, has a very warped view of the city and needs to come down to earth lolll.
"What he calls "equality" is symmetry, and symmetry only works when both sides start from the same place."
The writing of this book was absolutely bingeable, I flew through it in a day. The story as well was quite unique - Harriet writes a book with very raw honesty about her life and she does so anonymously. But it blew up everywhere and now she doesn't know if she can protect her privacy. I don't mind reading books with unlikeable characters. Harriet was definitely insufferable... the kind of people I loathe - rich entitled brats whose lives revolve around luxury brands, matcha, pilaties, Alo, Nobu, brunches..... gods her biggest problems were hiding her luxury purchases from her partner. He was also a bit of an a**hole and I didn't get why they were together the relationship was so empty. I absolutely loved that this book was set in Dubai, the places were familiar and I could visualise. I think that Dubai was one of the main characters in the book haha. I do feel Harriet, because of her Dubai bling type lifestyle expectations, has a very warped view of the city and needs to come down to earth lolll.
March 12, 2026
3.5 stars! It’s incredibly engaging and immersive, sprinkled with a bit of “Dubai Bling”. While I found myself wishing for more depth in Dean and Harriet’s relationship (I really wanted Dean to step up for her!), the story provided a much-needed escape from the noise of the world.
Congratulations, Hazel, on a fantastic debut. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Harriet!
Congratulations, Hazel, on a fantastic debut. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Harriet!
March 13, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of Not The Woman You Think by Hazel Calder in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Harriet, a woman whose life appears perfect on the surface, but who slowly realizes that much of her stability and comfort comes at the cost of her independence. In a moment of honesty, she anonymously writes a confessional memoir that unexpectedly becomes a bestseller, bringing her both freedom and the growing risk of exposure.
What makes Not The Woman You Think compelling is its focus on psychological tension and character exploration rather than dramatic twists. Harriet is a morally complex protagonist sometimes frustrating, often fascinating which makes her journey intriguing to follow. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and character-driven read about identity, independence, and the consequences of reclaiming control over one’s life.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of Not The Woman You Think by Hazel Calder in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Harriet, a woman whose life appears perfect on the surface, but who slowly realizes that much of her stability and comfort comes at the cost of her independence. In a moment of honesty, she anonymously writes a confessional memoir that unexpectedly becomes a bestseller, bringing her both freedom and the growing risk of exposure.
What makes Not The Woman You Think compelling is its focus on psychological tension and character exploration rather than dramatic twists. Harriet is a morally complex protagonist sometimes frustrating, often fascinating which makes her journey intriguing to follow. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and character-driven read about identity, independence, and the consequences of reclaiming control over one’s life.
May 7, 2026
Harriet is an established corporate girlie who has anonymously published a book in an attempt to secure her financial freedom. Her financially savvy, excel obsessed partner Dean has multiple streams of income but insists on splitting everything 50/50, doesn’t like to spend money and doesn’t like her spending her own money on herself either. Her book catapults to #1 on the Bestseller list and Harriet gets offers for screen adaptations from major broadcasters like Netflix and Apple. The book is all anyone seems to be talking about (in office, amongst friends) all while she tries to maintain anonymity and feigns indifference anytime anyone brings it up to her. The book explores how relationships can change because of money and success and shows what Harriet is willing to do to protect her secret.
Overall, I found this book to be a page-turner. The writing made you want to see what was going to happen at the end of every chapter (I flew through this book in a couple of days). I genuinely enjoyed reading it, however by the time I reached the end I realized that nothing much had happened at all (in terms of plot or character development) and felt there were way more dramatic twists and turns that could have been taken.
Two things I didn't like: Firstly - the essays shared from the book Harriet published. The characters in the book keep talking about how scandalous the book is, how much private information it reveals etc but from the excerpts shared, they didn’t seem diabolical at all…more like fake diary entries. It made it hard to take the success of the book seriously.
Secondly - the relationship between Harriet and Dean was so strange, it was hard to understand why they were together. I can get Harriet clinging on to him for the illusion of status, but aside from that their relationship seemed devoid of any love and it read more like roommates (who weren’t on the best of terms). Once Harriet had found success, I would have wanted to see her move on from that relationship. Another relationship I didn’t understand was the one between Harriet and her team member Lucy. I didn’t see the need for that storyline and find it highly unbelievable that she had an inkling that Harriet was the author of the novel.
Full review here: https://open.substack.com/pub/bookmar...
Overall, I found this book to be a page-turner. The writing made you want to see what was going to happen at the end of every chapter (I flew through this book in a couple of days). I genuinely enjoyed reading it, however by the time I reached the end I realized that nothing much had happened at all (in terms of plot or character development) and felt there were way more dramatic twists and turns that could have been taken.
Two things I didn't like: Firstly - the essays shared from the book Harriet published. The characters in the book keep talking about how scandalous the book is, how much private information it reveals etc but from the excerpts shared, they didn’t seem diabolical at all…more like fake diary entries. It made it hard to take the success of the book seriously.
Secondly - the relationship between Harriet and Dean was so strange, it was hard to understand why they were together. I can get Harriet clinging on to him for the illusion of status, but aside from that their relationship seemed devoid of any love and it read more like roommates (who weren’t on the best of terms). Once Harriet had found success, I would have wanted to see her move on from that relationship. Another relationship I didn’t understand was the one between Harriet and her team member Lucy. I didn’t see the need for that storyline and find it highly unbelievable that she had an inkling that Harriet was the author of the novel.
Full review here: https://open.substack.com/pub/bookmar...
March 13, 2026
When Harriet turns 40, she realises something: she has a beautiful life full of beautiful things, but no safety net. Her partner has the assets, while she’s living paycheque to paycheque to maintain her looks and her lifestyle. Deciding to play to her talents, she anonymously writes a book based on her own life. It blows up, becoming an internet sensation. Harriet is suddenly very rich…but no one can know.
The story begins on the day Harriet’s book becomes a bestseller and the royalties start pouring in. Everyone is desperate to find out who the anonymous author is, and people close to Harriet are beginning to connect the dots.
This was gripping! I read the whole book in two sittings - I couldn’t put it down. Harriet’s web of lies had me on the edge of my seat. The push and pull of life-changing money versus giving up anonymity and losing those close to you was so absorbing. The Dubai setting adding to the claustrophobia - everyone was watching, and new purchases got noticed. The searing heat and need to maintain a facade really added to the tension. Harriet isn’t a particularly likeable character at times, but she’s driven and sharp, and her voice kept me reading. I found myself constantly wondering how far she would go to protect her secret. The tension builds steadily as the pressure around her grows and the truth threatens to come out. This is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers and uncomfortable, thought-provoking reads.
The story begins on the day Harriet’s book becomes a bestseller and the royalties start pouring in. Everyone is desperate to find out who the anonymous author is, and people close to Harriet are beginning to connect the dots.
This was gripping! I read the whole book in two sittings - I couldn’t put it down. Harriet’s web of lies had me on the edge of my seat. The push and pull of life-changing money versus giving up anonymity and losing those close to you was so absorbing. The Dubai setting adding to the claustrophobia - everyone was watching, and new purchases got noticed. The searing heat and need to maintain a facade really added to the tension. Harriet isn’t a particularly likeable character at times, but she’s driven and sharp, and her voice kept me reading. I found myself constantly wondering how far she would go to protect her secret. The tension builds steadily as the pressure around her grows and the truth threatens to come out. This is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers and uncomfortable, thought-provoking reads.
March 16, 2026
First and foremost the prose is beautiful. The way the author weaves her words left me gobsmacked. She paints a beautiful picture and makes you see such beauty in the ordinary that you didnt think was possible. Her use of metaphor is something I haven't witnessed before and I was in awe.
The premise is new, original and interesting. The story line is refreshing and the setting is fresh.
And so so many quotable lines; hard hitting, powerful. Quotes that will make you stop dead in your tracks.
Unfortunately, my praise for this book here. The main character is extremely neurotic, she calculates every word, every pause, every breath and it was exhausting living in her head. Ultimately, nothing happened and while the plot was promising, the execution left a lot to be desired. Perhaps it was meant to be a character driven book while I expected it to be plot driven. Most of the threads just ended up being of little importance.
Starts out with a bang but loses itself in its pretentiousness.
2.5 stars 🌟
The premise is new, original and interesting. The story line is refreshing and the setting is fresh.
And so so many quotable lines; hard hitting, powerful. Quotes that will make you stop dead in your tracks.
Unfortunately, my praise for this book here. The main character is extremely neurotic, she calculates every word, every pause, every breath and it was exhausting living in her head. Ultimately, nothing happened and while the plot was promising, the execution left a lot to be desired. Perhaps it was meant to be a character driven book while I expected it to be plot driven. Most of the threads just ended up being of little importance.
Starts out with a bang but loses itself in its pretentiousness.
2.5 stars 🌟
March 7, 2026
Thank you, Hazel, for the opportunity to do an ARC read of your new book. Happy Launch!
I rated this 4.5 stars.
These first few chapters piqued my curiosity. This is not a thriller; it is a woman’s psychological story.
The main character, Harriet, has a strategy—like a logical chess game in her mind—shown through how she responds to coworkers, her partner, her friends, and her editor.
Initially, it seems to be about safety, but it’s really about control—over her environment, her situation, her money, and her life.
I really enjoyed this book and Hazel’s writing style. I will be looking for more books from her.
I encourage you to read “Not the Woman You Think” Hazel Calder
I rated this 4.5 stars.
These first few chapters piqued my curiosity. This is not a thriller; it is a woman’s psychological story.
The main character, Harriet, has a strategy—like a logical chess game in her mind—shown through how she responds to coworkers, her partner, her friends, and her editor.
Initially, it seems to be about safety, but it’s really about control—over her environment, her situation, her money, and her life.
I really enjoyed this book and Hazel’s writing style. I will be looking for more books from her.
I encourage you to read “Not the Woman You Think” Hazel Calder
March 26, 2026
So this was slightly different to my usual reads, but when Hazel reached out to me and asked if I would review it, I was intrigued.
The MC read like she was so real and much more than just a character in a story. She's self aware, observant, and is always weighing up the risk vs reward.
The book is set out as an internal monologue of the FMC, with snippets of her book weaved in.
She has beliefs and is very analytical in the way she justifies things.
It is a very character driven story about modern relationships, power structure and financial dynamics.
The MC read like she was so real and much more than just a character in a story. She's self aware, observant, and is always weighing up the risk vs reward.
The book is set out as an internal monologue of the FMC, with snippets of her book weaved in.
She has beliefs and is very analytical in the way she justifies things.
It is a very character driven story about modern relationships, power structure and financial dynamics.
March 15, 2026
I couldn’t quite warm to the main character. I actually found her quite unlikeable at times, but also strangely relatable! Especially living in Dubai, I sometimes have those same worries and thoughts. I did enjoy recognising many of the places mentioned throughout the book.
I wasn’t a fan of Dean at all and kept waiting for him to actually do something, I felt like Harriet deserved much more from the relationship.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and my first psychological read.
I wasn’t a fan of Dean at all and kept waiting for him to actually do something, I felt like Harriet deserved much more from the relationship.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read and my first psychological read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! Reading the first couple of pages, I was concerned that I wouldn't like this as much as I was anticipating. Not the the case at all, I got sucked in and lost track of the time. The thoughts and internal struggles, and the writing style itself made for a compelling story. Not my usual genre, but so glad I decided to try it! I will definitely watch for more books from this author.
March 6, 2026
Harriet is a woman who knows her worth and adds tax.
This book will make you take a closer look at your relationships - whether they’re personal or business, the importance of financial independence and protecting your boundaries and peace.
Will we see the next chapter of Harriet’s journey? She drafted quite the blueprint.
This book will make you take a closer look at your relationships - whether they’re personal or business, the importance of financial independence and protecting your boundaries and peace.
Will we see the next chapter of Harriet’s journey? She drafted quite the blueprint.
Review of advance copy
I was rooting for Harriet the whole book to just find her inner strength, embrace her success, and leave Dean and their terrible relationship once and for all! Everything she has is all surface level so not sure why she wants to hold onto it so much?!
March 15, 2026
This what an excellent read. I loved that Harriet was able to express herself as an author. Her book caused a lot of drama .
Review of advance copy received from Author
Many thanks to the author for reaching out and sending me an ARC of her upcoming novel. The premise immediately caught my attention, so I couldn’t wait to get started.
📘 INSIDE THE PAGES
By forty, Harriet has quite the sobering moment. Her finances aren’t going to magically sort themselves out. She’s done hoping it will all fall into place. Instead, she makes a bold, highly calculated move to regain control. The decision carries serious consequences, but Harriet is meticulous by nature. She plans for every angle and will push boundaries to make sure her secret stays buried.
🌟 MY THOUGHTS
This book is set in Dubai with the expat community as its backdrop. Having been a part of that world myself, I can totally relate to many of the observations that Calder makes in this story. The superficial relationships, living life in a rich playground, and questions about how your future will play-out are all intriguing topics to explore.
I went through a slew of emotions while reading this story. At first, I felt genuine sympathy for Harriet, stuck with a less than likeable boyfriend. But as the story unfolded, that sympathy shifted. She makes one bold move, and instead of moving forward, she doubles down. More than once, I wanted to sit her down and ask what on earth she was thinking.
The writing style felt different for me too. The sentences were short, sharp, sometimes deliberately repetitive. That clipped rhythm reinforced the atmosphere perfectly with everything appearing controlled and orderly on the surface, but deeply broken underneath.
The ending of the book does leave me with many questions, one being, is there going to be a sequel?
📘 INSIDE THE PAGES
By forty, Harriet has quite the sobering moment. Her finances aren’t going to magically sort themselves out. She’s done hoping it will all fall into place. Instead, she makes a bold, highly calculated move to regain control. The decision carries serious consequences, but Harriet is meticulous by nature. She plans for every angle and will push boundaries to make sure her secret stays buried.
🌟 MY THOUGHTS
This book is set in Dubai with the expat community as its backdrop. Having been a part of that world myself, I can totally relate to many of the observations that Calder makes in this story. The superficial relationships, living life in a rich playground, and questions about how your future will play-out are all intriguing topics to explore.
I went through a slew of emotions while reading this story. At first, I felt genuine sympathy for Harriet, stuck with a less than likeable boyfriend. But as the story unfolded, that sympathy shifted. She makes one bold move, and instead of moving forward, she doubles down. More than once, I wanted to sit her down and ask what on earth she was thinking.
The writing style felt different for me too. The sentences were short, sharp, sometimes deliberately repetitive. That clipped rhythm reinforced the atmosphere perfectly with everything appearing controlled and orderly on the surface, but deeply broken underneath.
The ending of the book does leave me with many questions, one being, is there going to be a sequel?
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book really stayed with me more than I expected.
At the beginning, I thought I understood Harriet. She seemed like someone living a comfortable, even enviable life, supported by the people around her—especially her partner, Dean. But as the story unfolded, I realized how much I had underestimated her.
What I found most interesting was the dynamic between Harriet and Dean. There’s a quiet but very real sense that he prefers her smaller, less independent, almost contained. It’s not always obvious, but it’s there. And it made me think about how easily someone can start to fit into a role without even realizing it.
Harriet, though, is much more aware than she first appears.
The shift in her is subtle, which I actually loved. She doesn’t make dramatic or impulsive choices—she plans. She observes. She calculates. As her situation changes, especially once money and independence come into play, you start to see just how intelligent and strategic she really is.
By the end, I saw her in a completely different light. She’s not reacting to her life—she’s controlling it in ways that aren’t obvious until you really look closely. And she’s willing to go further than anyone expects to protect what she’s built.
For me, this wasn’t just a story about a secret or a relationship. It felt like an exploration of power, autonomy, and what happens when someone decides they’re no longer going to stay small.
It was captivating, a little unsettling at times, and definitely made me think. Excellent read and I can’t wait to see what comes next from this up-and-coming author.
At the beginning, I thought I understood Harriet. She seemed like someone living a comfortable, even enviable life, supported by the people around her—especially her partner, Dean. But as the story unfolded, I realized how much I had underestimated her.
What I found most interesting was the dynamic between Harriet and Dean. There’s a quiet but very real sense that he prefers her smaller, less independent, almost contained. It’s not always obvious, but it’s there. And it made me think about how easily someone can start to fit into a role without even realizing it.
Harriet, though, is much more aware than she first appears.
The shift in her is subtle, which I actually loved. She doesn’t make dramatic or impulsive choices—she plans. She observes. She calculates. As her situation changes, especially once money and independence come into play, you start to see just how intelligent and strategic she really is.
By the end, I saw her in a completely different light. She’s not reacting to her life—she’s controlling it in ways that aren’t obvious until you really look closely. And she’s willing to go further than anyone expects to protect what she’s built.
For me, this wasn’t just a story about a secret or a relationship. It felt like an exploration of power, autonomy, and what happens when someone decides they’re no longer going to stay small.
It was captivating, a little unsettling at times, and definitely made me think. Excellent read and I can’t wait to see what comes next from this up-and-coming author.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Reading about Harriet was so exhausting, I can’t imagine how painful it would be to be someone like her. Are people in real life actually like this? I sure hope not. She is a miserable person surrounded by miserable people.
The premise intrigued me - a woman publishes a book anonymously and it becomes a huge bestseller and everyone is trying to figure out who wrote it. The people around her seem to be closing in.
Unfortunately the execution fell flat for me. The writing was repetitive (can we get a word count for “dangerous” over here? Or “alignment” being used in ways that make no sense?) and the constant calculating by Harriet about every single word and expression from her and everyone around her was exhausting (yes I repeated that word on purpose).
Here is an actual line, and it is representative of many: “I wait for the room to empty before I leave, because leaving last reads as control, and control reads as innocence.” What? I highlighted so many lines like this.
I don’t want to knock down a new author. This wasn’t terrible, but it really needs some good editing and maybe like, something redeeming about someone? Anyone? A book about a bad person and bad people and everyone is bad.
Thanks NetGalley and the author for this early copy. I do wish her success, I think there is promise here.
The premise intrigued me - a woman publishes a book anonymously and it becomes a huge bestseller and everyone is trying to figure out who wrote it. The people around her seem to be closing in.
Unfortunately the execution fell flat for me. The writing was repetitive (can we get a word count for “dangerous” over here? Or “alignment” being used in ways that make no sense?) and the constant calculating by Harriet about every single word and expression from her and everyone around her was exhausting (yes I repeated that word on purpose).
Here is an actual line, and it is representative of many: “I wait for the room to empty before I leave, because leaving last reads as control, and control reads as innocence.” What? I highlighted so many lines like this.
I don’t want to knock down a new author. This wasn’t terrible, but it really needs some good editing and maybe like, something redeeming about someone? Anyone? A book about a bad person and bad people and everyone is bad.
Thanks NetGalley and the author for this early copy. I do wish her success, I think there is promise here.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My Review No Spoilers Promise
I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to read this before publication, and I am really glad I did because this was such a refreshing change from my usual thriller and whodunnit reads.
Not the Woman You Think is a lighter, easy to follow story that still keeps you interested from start to finish. Sometimes it is nice to step away from dark twists and shocking reveals and read something that feels a bit more relaxed while still being engaging, and this book was exactly that for me.
The pacing felt smooth and comfortable, making it a very easy book to settle into and keep turning the pages. Hazel does a great job of keeping the reader curious and invested in what is happening without it ever feeling heavy or complicated.
This felt like a really enjoyable palate cleanser between thrillers and it is definitely one I would recommend when you want something engaging but a little lighter in tone.
Final verdict
A lovely, easy read that kept me interested throughout and one I would happily recommend. Keep an eye out for this when it releases on 16 March 2026.
I feel very grateful to have had the opportunity to read this before publication, and I am really glad I did because this was such a refreshing change from my usual thriller and whodunnit reads.
Not the Woman You Think is a lighter, easy to follow story that still keeps you interested from start to finish. Sometimes it is nice to step away from dark twists and shocking reveals and read something that feels a bit more relaxed while still being engaging, and this book was exactly that for me.
The pacing felt smooth and comfortable, making it a very easy book to settle into and keep turning the pages. Hazel does a great job of keeping the reader curious and invested in what is happening without it ever feeling heavy or complicated.
This felt like a really enjoyable palate cleanser between thrillers and it is definitely one I would recommend when you want something engaging but a little lighter in tone.
Final verdict
A lovely, easy read that kept me interested throughout and one I would happily recommend. Keep an eye out for this when it releases on 16 March 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The story is about an expat woman and her self discovery of controlling her narrative at last with money and power that she comes into. Harriet has always outwardly shown what she chooses to, simply just to fit the image in Dubai that keeps her off the radar from her boyfriend, friends, and coworkers. She does just enough to be relevant and fit in, but never too little or too much.
As you dive further into her story, you discover Harriet’s secret that could implode in her face at any moment. This secret could forever change the trajectory of her life and her intimate and professional relationships surrounding her. One observes and calculates, another watches closely and collects information to be used later, and others simply question in hopes for truthful answers. As Harriet’s perfectly curated world starts closing in on her, will she choose the path to freedom and suffer the consequences it may hold, or will she continue on the exhausting minuscule path she’s on, a path where she isn’t living to be feel alive but simply to survive? The ending of the book gives the feel there’s more left to Harriet’s story, as if this is just the beginning for her. Will there be a second book on the path that Harriet decided to choose or did Hazel, the author, end it for readers to build their own ending?
Hazel had me sitting at the edge of my seat wondering if Harriet’s secret will be discovered, what moves will she make next, and will this make or break her? Will Harriet get the freedom she craves after years of curating the perfect image that everyone else wants and sees of her?
Overall, a refreshing read from my usual genres. The way Hazel has written this book has your gears turning.
***ARC Review***
As you dive further into her story, you discover Harriet’s secret that could implode in her face at any moment. This secret could forever change the trajectory of her life and her intimate and professional relationships surrounding her. One observes and calculates, another watches closely and collects information to be used later, and others simply question in hopes for truthful answers. As Harriet’s perfectly curated world starts closing in on her, will she choose the path to freedom and suffer the consequences it may hold, or will she continue on the exhausting minuscule path she’s on, a path where she isn’t living to be feel alive but simply to survive? The ending of the book gives the feel there’s more left to Harriet’s story, as if this is just the beginning for her. Will there be a second book on the path that Harriet decided to choose or did Hazel, the author, end it for readers to build their own ending?
Hazel had me sitting at the edge of my seat wondering if Harriet’s secret will be discovered, what moves will she make next, and will this make or break her? Will Harriet get the freedom she craves after years of curating the perfect image that everyone else wants and sees of her?
Overall, a refreshing read from my usual genres. The way Hazel has written this book has your gears turning.
***ARC Review***
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I wanted to like this book. The premise of a woman who anonymously writes a best seller and tries desperately to keep her identity secret is intriguing. And Dubai? What a fascinating, exotic location! The problem is the characters. I didn’t like any of them including Harriet, the author. She draws on her relationship with the one dimensional Dean for subject matter. I don’t know why she continued that relationship, especially after he sold their house in Spain and pocketed the money because he had made the down payment. Harriet had dutifully paid half the mortgage for years. She is an executive at Beauty company and, although she has a severe shopaholic problem, must make enough to support herself. She and her friends seems obsessed by expensive products and love to show off to each other. However, when she comes home she carefully hides her purchases so Dean won’t notice and criticize her. Really? She is forty years old! I’m rating it 3 stars because I do like the concept.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hazel Calder for this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hazel Calder for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Not the Woman You Think is a sleek, unsettling exploration of ambition and identity set against the shimmering façade of Dubai. Harriet’s transformation—from overlooked partner to bestselling author with everything to lose—is handled with a deft, elegant touch. The suspense doesn’t come from big twists but from the slow tightening of her world as people begin to suspect the truth.
The novel excels at capturing the subtle power dynamics of modern relationships: who holds the money, who holds the leverage, who gets to decide the shape of a shared life. As Harriet becomes more strategic, more guarded, and more willing to protect her secret at any cost, the story takes on a deliciously tense edge.
Stylish, smart, and quietly provocative, it’s a compelling look at what reinvention really costs—and who gets to claim it.
With thanks to Hazel Calder, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The novel excels at capturing the subtle power dynamics of modern relationships: who holds the money, who holds the leverage, who gets to decide the shape of a shared life. As Harriet becomes more strategic, more guarded, and more willing to protect her secret at any cost, the story takes on a deliciously tense edge.
Stylish, smart, and quietly provocative, it’s a compelling look at what reinvention really costs—and who gets to claim it.
With thanks to Hazel Calder, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book grabs you by the throat and doesn't let you go again. You feel unease the whole way through ; it grips you, makes you uncomfortable, and makes you think about every relationship in your life, both romantic and platonic. It does all of this in the best way possible -in a way that is addictive. It makes you feel so trapped, like you have been put under the microscope and dissected until every part of you is laid bare ; ultimately , it liberates you. You feel like you're reading a dystopian book, simply because the thought that this is reality is so uncomfortable it leaves you shivering in all the right ways.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While the opening monologue is an immediate hook that piques the reader's interest, the momentum unfortunately stalls. The writing feels overly simplistic and fails to sustain the initial intrigue. The heavy reliance on brand-name references early on feels excessive and distracting rather than immersive. The writing is repetitive and recycles the same descriptions which feel redundant. It’s a disappointment, as the premise is genuinely compelling, but the author ultimately loses the pace and depth required to do the theme justice. I did enjoy the protagonist and thought her character arc was incredibly satisfying.
March 7, 2026
Some books catch you off guard, and this one absolutely did. I picked it up knowing nothing, and within the first few chapters I was completely hooked. Harriet's world, the designer clothes, the Dubai glam, the perfect-on-paper relationship, feels so vivid and real, yet underneath it all she's quietly unravelling. When I got to Not The Woman You Think by Hazel Calder, I realized this wasn't just a story about one woman's crisis, it's a mirror. The anonymous exposé subplot is brilliantly done, tense and twisty in ways I didn't see coming. Sharp, emotionally honest, and deeply satisfying. If you loved Big Little Lies, clear your weekend, you won't put this down.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the first time I read a novel from an indie author and I really enjoyed the story, especially the fact that it is based in Dubai. Although Harriet is rather morally grey and not your typical ‘heroine’, I rooted for her the whole way through the book. I also connected with the themes of image and power dynamics in modern relationships and I loved the brutally honest take on it. Probably a very polarizing book, but thumbs up from me - and I can’t wait to see if/when and how Harriet’s story might continue!
Review of advance copy
Harriet lives in Dubai with her partner, Dean. She is nearing her fortieth birthday, and she feels like she has nothing. She wants to be confident and in control.
Her life changes when she writes a book. She’s successful, but she can’t tell anyone about the book. Not Yet. She wants to be in charge of her future. If she remains anonymous she will always call the shots.
A well written and well paced novel. A great read, for sure.
I received an advance copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Her life changes when she writes a book. She’s successful, but she can’t tell anyone about the book. Not Yet. She wants to be in charge of her future. If she remains anonymous she will always call the shots.
A well written and well paced novel. A great read, for sure.
I received an advance copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 19, 2026
A compelling read that leans into women’s fiction with psychological suspense. Harriet’s "perfect" life in Dubai and the secret behind her anonymous book creates a sense of tension as everything begins to close in on her.
I really enjoyed the themes of control, identity, and reinvention, and how engaging the story felt throughout. It’s not a twist-heavy thriller how I'm use to, but the tension builds in a way that keeps you invested the entire time. It did leave me with questions in the end, so I hope there is a second book.
Overall, an engaging and kept me hooked.
I really enjoyed the themes of control, identity, and reinvention, and how engaging the story felt throughout. It’s not a twist-heavy thriller how I'm use to, but the tension builds in a way that keeps you invested the entire time. It did leave me with questions in the end, so I hope there is a second book.
Overall, an engaging and kept me hooked.
March 21, 2026
NOT THE WOMAN YOU THINK
What a great book. Different to what I usually read.
This is a general fiction (adult)/ women’s fiction book and I loved it.
It is about a woman called Harriet that lives in the highlight of Dubai. Her partner only thinks of money and spreadsheets. No money should be irresponsibly spent, even as a little treat. He looked down on Harriet.
Until she publishes a book that goes wild but.. she published it with it being anonymous and everyone goes crazy about it with it hitting the top of the charts.
I didn’t want to put the book down I was engrossed fully!
What a great book. Different to what I usually read.
This is a general fiction (adult)/ women’s fiction book and I loved it.
It is about a woman called Harriet that lives in the highlight of Dubai. Her partner only thinks of money and spreadsheets. No money should be irresponsibly spent, even as a little treat. He looked down on Harriet.
Until she publishes a book that goes wild but.. she published it with it being anonymous and everyone goes crazy about it with it hitting the top of the charts.
I didn’t want to put the book down I was engrossed fully!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow! I absolutely devoured this book! Harriet and Dean have an unusual relationship. They live together in a gorgeous mansion and split everything equally but don't care about marriage. But when she writes the novel, Confessions of a Woman and it goes viral, but she has always wanted to be anonymous so no one knows she's the author.. The tension between them is palpable and left me gasping at the end!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
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