I Owe You One

by Lauren North

She saved my life. I faked her death…

I only came back home to lie low and reconnect with my sister, Bryony. Her life with her gorgeous husband Alex is perfect – a far cry from the disaster mine has turned into…

But almost immediately I can tell something is wrong. My once bubbly sister’s skin is pale, her hair dull, her eyes unfocussed. She tells me Alex has turned obsessive, controlling her every move. A tear tracks down her cheek as I stare at her in horror.

‘I have to fake my death,’ she whispers and I jolt back in shock. ‘And I need your help to do it.’ As I start to shake my head, mouth trembling, she lays her winning card ‘You owe me, Jess. I saved your life.’

But after she’s successfully disappeared, I realise there are holes in her story – things she’s told me about Alex that can’t be true. Threatening messages that can’t have come from him. Rumours in the village about the way she’s been acting. She doesn’t contact me like she promised – and rather than being angry she’s gone, Alex seems completely devastated…

So when I learn Bryony never actually saved me all those years ago, I start to question everything. Have I just saved my sister, or helped her get away with something terrible? And when the truth comes out, will I be the one whose life is in danger…?

An utterly page-turning, edge-of-your-seat psychological thriller that will have you reading late into the night! Perfect for fans of The Housemaid, The Couple Next Door and The Family Upstairs.

Readers love Lauren

‘Wow, just wow!… Brilliant… Kept me awake far later than planned… I devoured this gem in one sitting. I was hooked… Impossible to put down.’ Littlemissbooklover87, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Wow, wowsers, just wow!… My mind is blown… I could barely stop reading… I kept on gasping out loud… Just wow… I loved it… Addicted!’ Rachels Random Read, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘OMG!!!… My mind is still trying to wrap my head around this story! SOO GOOD!!!… Truly heartbreaking… I was literally yelling at my e-reader!!… Heart-wrenching, suspenseful, thrilling… Intensely wicked twists that will blow your mind!! It is a must-read!!’ Heidi Lynns Book Reviews, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

‘Hooked me from the very first page… Kept me up way too late… I had to know how it ended… Guessing the whole time… Jaw-dropping… A must-read.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘I could not put this book down… Devoured it in one sitting… An absolutely unputdownable, addictive page-turner!!… Fantastic!!… A heart-racing, action packed, page-turning must-read!’ Bookworm86, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Wow wow wow!…

Genres: Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Audiobook

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication April 8, 2026

About the author

Lauren writes psychological suspense novels that delve into the darker side of relationships and families. She has a lifelong passion for writing, reading, and all things books. Lauren’s love of psychological suspense has grown since childhood and her dark imagination of always wondering what’s the worst thing that could happen in every situation.

Lauren studied psychology before moving to London where she lived and worked for many years. She now lives with her family in the Suffolk countryside. Readers can follow Lauren on Twitter @Lauren_C_North and Facebook @LaurenNorthAuthor

Reviews

[Christina C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Owe You One by Lauren North is a gripping and well-written psychological drama that kept me hooked from start to finish. Centered around two sisters and the complicated, often messy bond they share, the story dives deep into family dynamics, secrets, and long-standing tensions.

North does a great job of building suspense throughout the novel, slowly unraveling the layers of the sisters’ relationship while keeping you guessing about what really happened in the past. The emotional depth and twists along the way made it hard to put down.
And that ending….completely shocking. Just when you think you have everything figured out, the story takes a turn that leaves you rethinking everything you’ve read.

Overall, this was a compelling and engaging read. While some parts felt a bit slower in pacing, the strong writing and jaw-dropping conclusion make it a solid 4-star book. Highly recommend for fans of twisty family dramas

[Jo Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve already had the pleasure of reading some of Lauren Norths work so I was thrilled to discover the latest offering available to download from NetGalley. It’s so rare for me to find a thriller lately that I don’t find to be predictable, so I had high hopes as I know I’ve loved the previous books, and let me tell you she did not disappoint. My little head was all over the place trying to figure out what on earth was going on here.

A mid pace which I really enjoyed the story played out carefully, there were twists and turns all along the way and I enjoyed every moment of this!

Great narration added to the enjoyment.

Huge thanks to Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ALC 🎧

[Samantha Bailey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the early copy of this book.

While this is a fun, fast paced thriller, I felt like the story became a little predictable as the book progressed. That's not to say I didn't have a great time reading it, but I did figure out the reveal much earlier that the writer intended. Despite this, if you love thriller novels, I'd say definitely check this one out.

[Corinne’s Chapter Chatter · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️

This was an interesting one because I genuinely enjoyed the experience… but if I’m being fully honest, it was very predictable, and a lot of that comes down to the structure and those heavy-handed red herrings.

Thrillers are hard to write. Sometimes authors try so hard to misdirect the reader that they end up doing the exact opposite—basically shining a spotlight on the twist. That’s exactly what happened here. It actually gave me similar vibes to Dear Debbie by Frieda McFadden in that way, throwing out so many “clues” and distractions that the real answer becomes obvious way too early.

That said—this is a much stronger book overall. Better writing, more engaging, and honestly just a more enjoyable ride. So that comparison ends there… mostly. They’re both popcorn thrillers, but this one has a little more bite. Think: flavored popcorn instead of plain.

I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Heather Long, who did a great job and is definitely part of why I rounded up my rating. The production was clean, smooth, and easy to stay immersed in.

I typically love dual timeline, dual narration formats, but here it actually worked against the story and made the predictability worse. So this ends up being one of those cases where the core story is solid, but the execution didn’t quite do it any favors. Honestly, this feels like an editing miss more than anything.

All that said—still enjoyable! I’d recommend it if you’re looking for a quick, low-stakes thriller that keeps you entertained.

I am thankful to have received a complimentary ALC from Bolinda Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.

[Rachel Floyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Lauren North book, and I’ll definitely been adding her others to my TBR pile! Her writing style reminded me of Freida McFadden.

They hit the nail on the head when they called this “a totally jaw-dropping, twisty and addictive psychological thriller.” Every time I thought I had it figured out, it would pivot and reveal something completely different!

I felt for Jess. Bless her sweet, trusting heart. She just couldn’t catch a break.

Thank you to #NetGalley, the publishers and author for my advanced copy of this book! This is my honest review and the opinions are my own.

[~ Cariad ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

#ioweyouone #NetGalley #laurennorth

What a great audiobook, I've flown through it over the past three days!
I thought I knew what was going to happen, but the twists kept it hidden until the end.
Heather Long's narration was perfect, I really enjoyed listening to her bring the characters to life.

I was lucky enough to receive this audiobook via Bolinda Audio and NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts on it.

[Kayl_may · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

Lauren North is one of my go-to authors. I’ve enjoyed both listening to and reading her books, so I couldn’t wait to read an ARC of her latest novel.

This story follows Jess and her sister Bryony. Bryony saved Jess’s life when they were younger, leaving Jess feeling forever indebted to her. So when Bryony asks for help faking her own death to escape an abusive relationship, Jess feels she has no choice but to agree. However, Jess soon begins to realise that things may not be quite what they seem…

The story is told mainly from Jess’s viewpoint, with a few flashbacks to past events. I always enjoy books told from a single character’s perspective, as it helps me connect with them more, even if it does sometimes leave me questioning how reliable the narrator really is.

I found this one a little slow to start, with much of the first half focused on setting the scene. However, the pace really picks up in the second half and I ended up reading it in just a few hours as I couldn’t put it down! It became gripping and exciting, and I found myself constantly trying to work out who the real victim(s) were and who could be trusted.

I did manage to figure out some of the twists, mainly because I tend to guess every possible outcome (a bad habit of mine!). However, the ending completely surprised me, which I loved.

Overall, this was a fantastic read that I’ll definitely be recommending to my friends. This is the seventh novel I’ve read by Lauren North, and it’s definitely up there as one of my favourites.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.

[ThrillersDoodles · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5* What does it truly mean to owe someone your life?

Lauren North does a fantastic job of exploring just that in this psychological thriller.

I Owe You One is complex, twisted and delicious!
The characters were well done and I loved how the story unfolded, revealing secrets just so. It’s a fresh take I haven’t seen before.

I looked forward to getting back to the story when I had to set it down a few times. And, the ending was so satisfying!

It’s my first book by Lauren North (narrated by Heather Long) but it won’t be my last. Definitely checking out the back list!

What to expect:
- [x] Multi pov
- [x] Dual timeline
- [x] Twists
Topic(s): family drama, jealousy, gaslighting, sisters, psychological thriller

Audiobook:
Narrator(s): Heather Long
- [x] Sound quality is great
- [x] Unique sounding characters for the most part. I mostly know who is talking without having to look.
- [x] The energy and tone are good, making it easy to get to know the characters.
- [x] Easy to understand/ UK accented.
1.75x

Flow and Pacing:
- [x] Hooked
- [x] Engaging

Recommend:
Oh yeah! It’s a good one.
Freida McFadden and Sally Hepworth fans will love this one!

With thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the advance listening copy.

[Emma F · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 rounded up to 5

Jess is returning to her Cornish town, the town she left as soon as she was old enough. She’s lost everything, her job, home and partner. She’s plagued by nightmares from a sailing accident sixteen years ago, when she was thirteen, saved by her sixteen year old sister. She can’t remember what happened. Her mother has dementia so she can’t no longer ask her. Her sister, Bryony, is suffering from domestic abuse and needs her help and Jess does owe her.

Jess is the narrator, we get glimpses of her at thirteen, when the accident took place. Her life in the present has fallen apart and she has no one to turn to. Through the book we learn that maybe things aren’t as they seem. Jess trusts her sister but there are gaps in her story, and her mother (in moments of clarity) reveals things. I was hooked from the prologue and read it in an afternoon. I would definitely recommend it.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had never heard of Lauren North. I’m officially hooked on her books! I’m adding them all to my TBR list.
Lauren North’s writing style reminds me a lot of Freida McFadden.

“I Owe You One” was a 5 star read for me. This book kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through. Every time I thought I had it figured out, there was another twist and turn.

My heart broke for Jess throughout the book. Unfortunately, she learned the hard way that blindly trusting someone, even family, can end up breaking your heart over and over.

Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this book.

[UKDana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jess has returned home following the failure of both her relationship and business. At home, she finds her older sister, Bryony, begging for help. Bryony convinces Jess that she needs to fake her own death to escape the coercive control of her husband. Jess feels she has no choice but to help since Bryony saved her life when they were younger.

I've never read anything previously written by Lauren North, but I have loved the two books she has published under the pen name L. C. North. Listening to I Owe You One gave me an opportunity to correct this situation. Just from reading the blurb, you realise this is going to be filled with twists, I just didn't realise how many twists and cliffhangers there were going to be.

You are straight into the action as the story opens. Bryony is begging Jess to help her fake her death. My interest was immediately piqued, wanting to know why. The story then jumps back in time slightly, giving us a chance to learn more about Jess and her situation. We discover that Jess's life is in turmoil; her business has failed, she caught her partner with another woman, and her mother has moved into a nursing home as a result of dementia. The only positive is the fact that her older sister, Bryony, is happily married and living close by.

The chaos of her life is compounded when Bryony tells her about the abuse she is suffering. I immediately felt sympathetic towards both women, hoping that together they could resolve the problems they were struggling with. I could also understand Jess's confusion; Bryony's husband, Alex, was Jess's best friend, and she finds it difficult to believe that he has changed so much.

Alongside the problems Bryony is asking for help with, Jess is also avoiding threatening phone calls from a mystery caller and any contact with her partner. We also discover that Jess has blocked out the traumatic event from her childhood when Bryony saved her life. All of these add extra layers of suspense.

The storyline features numerous cliffhangers; just when you think you have guessed what is happening, the author pulls the rug out from under you, and you have to recalibrate all of your thoughts. I cannot believe how many OMG moments the author has managed to pack into the story. I vividly remember one moment in particular where I desperately needed to know what was happening but had to pause the audiobook as I was going out, needless to say, I listened to the next chapter as soon as I got home. This really is one of those audiobooks where you want to listen to the whole thing in one go.

If you enjoyed my review please check out my book blog, Reading For Leisure
https://readingforleisure.blogspot.com/

or follow me on:-
Twitter; @Debbie_Hart_UK
Instagram; @reading_for_leisure_blog

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: I Owe You One
Author: Lauren North
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Heather Long
Publisher: Bolinda Audio/Bookouture
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pub Date: April 8, 2026
My Rating: 4.6 stars
Pages: 322

The Prologue starts when Jess returns to her hometown and finds her sister Bryony a bit of a mess.
Bryony states ~ ‘I have to fake my death,’
‘And I need your help to do it.’
‘You owe me, Jess. I saved your life.’

Story told in two time periods – Now and Sisteen years ago from the POV of Jess and Bryony.

Story starts sixteen years ago when Jess was thirteen and Bryony sixteen. They go for a boat ride on the Calypso (something they are not supposed to do alone without their parents). Jess falls off the boat into the water; Bryony jumps in to save her. Jess blacks out - and cannot remember how she fell or what happened next.

Now Jess is twenty-nine and is visiting with her sister. Bryony’s life seems perfect she is married to the handsome Alex who was once Jess’s boyfriend.

But almost immediately Jess knows something is wrong. Her once bubbly sister’s skin is pale, her hair dull, her eyes unfocussed. She confesses that she is fearful Alex will kill her - Thus her plea for Jess to help her fake her death,

But after Bryony disappears, Alex appears to be completely devastated… Jess starts to doubt all the things Bryony told her about Alex. Jess knew him for years and knows she was a perfectionist when it came to his art but ‘Threatening messages seem like something he would not do. Also the Calypso incident continues to haunt her~ what really happened.


I went into this story knowing nothing about it other than I like the author, Lauren North. Story turned out great – it kept me guessing.
I liked Heather Long the audiobook narrator, as he did a great job performing the characters.
Also enjoyed the author’s Note at the end. She tells us how the idea of it really means when someone says – “I owe you”.
There is the emotional debt such as Jess felt as she wanted to do the right thing.
Ms. North states Bryony was fun plus a challenger to write.
Story is about:
Loyalty
Power and
The dangerous line between love and control.
One might ask themselves - how far you would go if you believed you owed someone.
I want to thank NetGalley, Bolinda Audio and Bookouture Books for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for April 8, 2026.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Owe You One by Laura North it’s about Jess who after losing her business and catching her husband kissing another woman is going back home to lick her wounds clear out her mother‘s house and decide what to do with the rest of her life. She also wants to get closer to her sister Brianne who she’s had a complicated relationship with ever since she knew her. Although her sister did save her life in a boating accident they really haven’t been that close. It’s when she arrives home and she sees the relationship of her ex best friend Alex And sister Brian who got married despite just telling her sister she had a crush on him but now it seems the tension is high in their relationship it isn’t until her sister asked her to help her fake her depth because Alex is abusive and keeps tabs on her 24 seven that just believes she knows the real story and although she’s hesitant she eventually goes along with her sisters wishes after she reminds Jess that she saved her life when they were children and says you owe me one.. while this is happening her husband Liam who said he will never give up trying to get her back because what happened with him kissing the woman was a big mistake and nothing he wanted. So he keeps trying to call her but Jess sends him to voicemail. The phone calls stop right when Jess things she may want to at least talk to him. She also has someone in a black SUV following her when she goes to visit her mom in the old folks home she sees the vehicle.When she hears someone trying to open the front door in the middle of the night she looked out the window to see the vehicle again. soon her once amazing life is now a nightmare and her sisters fake murder turned into a real murder of someone else close to Jess. Can she put a stop to all the craziness that’s going on should she go to the police or figure it out herself? this is a wild ride in another book that kept me up to the spooky hours of the night reading just one more chapter there are some authors who can write books that make no sense that has you rolling your eyes and saying as if and then other authors weaving in so seamlessly at the same out of the box content is something you’re absolutely believing and can’t wait to see how it ends and I believe that is this author I love this book there’s nothing better than a good popcorn thriller and this is definitely that so if that is something you enjoy I would definitely recommend it. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Owe You One is a wonderfully twisty, quietly unsettling psychological thriller that begins with a simple act of sisterly loyalty and spirals into something far darker. From the moment Jess returns home — bruised by life, hoping for a soft landing — there’s a subtle tension humming beneath the surface. Her sister Bryony’s once-bright presence has dimmed, her smile brittle, her fear barely contained. The confession that follows lands like a blow: she needs to fake her own death, and Jess must help her do it.

What makes the story so gripping is the way it plays with trust. Jess’s decision feels both impulsive and heartbreakingly understandable, rooted in old debts and complicated love. But once Bryony vanishes, the ground shifts. The details don’t add up. The threats don’t match the man she’s accused. And Alex — far from the controlling monster Jess expected — is shattered, confused, and strangely believable. The village whispers only deepen the unease, painting Bryony in shades Jess has never seen before.

The novel thrives on this slow erosion of certainty. Every chapter nudges you toward a new possibility: victim, manipulator, survivor, liar. Jess becomes a compelling lens through which to watch the truth warp and unspool — loyal, flawed, desperate to do right, and increasingly terrified she’s made a catastrophic mistake. The tension builds beautifully, tightening with each revelation until the final twist snaps everything into place with a sharp, breath-stealing clarity.

What lingers is the emotional complexity beneath the suspense: the messy bonds of family, the weight of old promises, and the way love can blind us just as easily as fear.

Atmospheric, addictive, and full of delicious moral ambiguity, I Owe You One is the kind of thriller that keeps you turning pages long after you meant to stop, chasing the truth right alongside Jess.

My thanks to Lauren North, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Olive · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have so much to say.

I Owe You One is about two sisters, Jess and Bryony. Jess owes Bryony her life.. And Bryony needs Jess's help to fake her own death. But why?

I took notes for this one.. And they're a mess.
Enjoy!
-Oh, nuh uh. That is NOT what we're gonna do.
-I'm ready to throw down over a fictional characters mother, now.
-I have a theory. Theory A. I don't like my theory. It hasn't happened yet, but I'm already pissed thinking it will.
-Ya know what, sometimes I'm just real glad I don't have a sister. My brother would NEVER.
-Yeah, no. That's suspicious. Theory B unlocked. This one, at least I can theorize why.
-Theories C & D have entered the chat. 😅
-Theory A had revealed itself to be correct. >grumble grumble<
-And there goes theory B. Correct again. It's getting boring predicting all of these things..
-Ma'am WHAT?
-Alright theory C & D are correct.
-And now I'm grasping at tree limbs on my way down a cliff. I can't even remember which theories were which now.. But I've been bamboozled! Previously confirmed correct theories are no longer correct. Touche.
-My theories are a complete mess. Some were right! But a lot were wrong, even after I was lead fully to believe they were true. I saw where this was going in a lot of ways, but was ultimately wrong about a large portion.
-Okay, I see you, Lauren North. This one surprised me.
-Yes, recommend!!
-Wait.. What about the mom though?

Twisty. Tricky. Deadly. Absolute evil.

Go ahead and give yourself whiplash reading this. It's worth it. But my neck and jaw aren't pleased. 😂

I just.. I want to know what happened to the mom. She wasn't mentioned in the end and I was ready to fight for her, so that was a bit disappointing.

And always, a huge thank you to NetGalley and Bookourture for this fantastic ARC. Once again, a fabulous read.

Solid 3.75+⭐

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book from Lauren North and I am absolutely thrilled to have come across it! I really enjoyed this one and I am looking forward to exploring her back catalog for gems like I Owe You One.

This book is bonkers in the best possible way! The secrets and unknowns are woven into the storyline to create an eerie undercurrent of tension that kept me completely engaged. The author uses a clever narrative device: Jess was in a boating accident 16 years ago and has lost her memory of that time, and her therapist has suggested that she try to rewind the film strip of her memories and take one step back, and then another; the narrative switches occasionally to her sister Bryony in the past on the day of the accident, and each subsequent chapter goes further into the past as if the reader is in fact taking the advice of the therapist. Nice little flourish!

Spending time on the page with Jess, whose multiple issues make her both very vulnerable and quite sympathetic, is entertaining and also suspenseful. I like her character a great deal and found it easy to root for her. The situations she finds herself in create tons of tension and several wild revelations along with short chapters keep the story moving along at a quick pace. It's a highly entertaining popcorn thriller with many unique elements that make the book very fun and easy to read. I went into this with very little info about it and I'm keeping this review vague on plot points because I recommend that readers do the same and let all the twists and turns remain a big surprise!

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Debbie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Take on I Owe You One
I’m bumping this up to a 5-star rating. While it starts as a slow burn, the momentum completely shifts around the 40% mark, and the payoff is more than worth the wait.
The Vibe
Reading this felt like watching a storm slowly roll in and then suddenly breaking into a downpour. Lauren North is great at building that "something is very wrong here" atmosphere. While the first half requires some patience, the second half transforms into a high-speed pursuit that makes it impossible to put down. It definitely turns into a "stay up until 2 AM to finish it" kind of story.
The Highs and Lows
• The Timelines: This remained the highlight for me. The jumping back and forth keeps you guessing and prevents the heavier moments from feeling stagnant. It’s like a puzzle where the final pieces reveal a completely different picture than the one you started with.
• The Character Arc: Early on, Jess is a tough character to hang out with—she’s stuck in a pretty gloomy headspace that makes the narrative feel heavy. However, as the pace quickens, she really holds her own. Seeing her develop into a more likable and resilient lead (especially in contrast to her sister) was a huge win for the story.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a thriller that balances psychological weight with a genuine "pedal to the metal" second half, this is it. Don't let the initial slow pace deter you; the shift in Jess’s character and the breakneck speed of the ending make this a standout mystery. It’s the perfect read for when you want a story that starts with a simmer and ends with a bang.

[Sonja Charters · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as I spotted this author, I jumped at the chance to read this new release.

Surprisingly, this is only my third read by them, but I just knew that I'd loved my previous reads and couldn't wait to jump into this new adventure.

 

The story focuses on two sisters who have not had the best time growing up and take advantage of their mother's move to a care home, to head back together to reconnect.

 

Things take a turn when Bryony begs her sister to help her escape her abusive husband - but all may not be quite as it seems and I was completely hooked throughout this read, trying to work out what was really going on behind closed doors.

 

I loved how the information was gradually revealed and each step further complicated the mystery.

I was forever trying to work out my own theories of what was happening, but as soon as I settled on some answers, there'd be another twist on its way.

 

I really warmed to both sisters - each with their own issues and a shared childhood trauma that created this kind of loyalty between them - but the dynamic felt off and I gradually started suspecting that there was going to be much more to the story.

 

The writing style kept me hooked and I raced through this.

I love a book that keeps me guessing and although I did work out a couple of the twists, there was so much going on right to the very end, that it really didn't spoil my read.

 

Another great read to add to my growing collection and I can't wait to add more from this author soon.

 

 

 

 

[MissAllieReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

”You owe me, Jess,” she hisses then. ”I saved your life. Sixteen years ago. I pulled you out of that water. I kept you alive. And now... now you have to help me fake my death.”

Jess Waters has returned to her hometown, Skelwick, to be with her mother and to reconnect with her sister, Bryony.

16 years ago, her sister, Bryony, saved her life when she went overboard their boat. Jess doesn’t remember what happened, but the flashbacks and nightmares still haunt her.

What happens when Bryony asks Jess to help her fake her death from her controlling husband, Alex Raffety? But Jess soon realizes there are holes in her sister’s story she isn’t sure who to trust: her sister Bryony or her best friend Alex.

”Bryony has escaped. She's free.
But I'm trapped in the lies we've told.”


⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was such a great read! The beginning is a steady pace to give you a taste of who these characters are and their personalities. Then, during 40%, it definitely starts to pick up, and your second guessing yourself along the way, trying to figure out what will happen next!

I thought I knew how it would end, but I never expected all of that to unfold, and you’re in for a wild ride! My first Lauren North but I can’t wait to read more of her novels!

Thank you to Lauren North, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the chance to read and review this e-arc in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

[Aurora Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧 𝗣𝗘𝗘𝗞
When Jess returns home to heal, her sister begs for her help to fake her own death. Reluctantly agreeing, Jess is pulled into a situation that quickly spirals beyond her control, forcing her to question who she can trust.

𝗔𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
Not gonna lie, I drove the long way home to get more reading time in! This was such an addictive listen.

𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗧𝗔𝗞𝗘
What does owing someone your life truly mean? This drives this fast paced, addictive read. There’s often so much filler or “atmospheric blah blah” but this just jumps into high drama, red flags and twisty twists!

The dynamic between the sisters is so compelling and my heart ached for Jess and her mum - Alzheimer’s is often used in thrillers and this is an example of how well it can work.

I loved how twisty this was! I caught a couple of clues along the way - some reveals I saw coming, others I didn’t. But it didn’t lessen the fun and I was still fully entertained and satisfied.

𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
I really enjoyed this. There were a few moments where the twists gave me a slight déjà vu feeling, and it didn’t always feel completely fresh. But it was still addictive, entertaining, and a solid thriller.

Thank you Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for this #gifted ARC.

🎧 Narrated by Heather Long
📖 Publishes 04•08•26 | 322 pages | 8h 40

[Britney Ireland · Rating 5 out of 5]

A True Five-Star Thrill Ride: My Review of I Owe You One
This book is, without a doubt, a rare five-star read. From the moment the plot truly took off, I was completely hooked. The sheer number of twists and turns is a masterclass in suspense; I was constantly blindsided, thinking I had a handle on where the story was going only to be dramatically rerouted. It is the kind of book that keeps you guessing until the final page.

The dynamic between sisters Jess and Bryony, Bryony's husband Alex, and the complex shadow of Jess’s ex-boyfriend Liam, creates a compelling web of relationships. Following their journey is an absolute thrill ride that manages to captivate from the first page to the last.

As a fan of fast-paced reading, I particularly appreciated the short chapters, which propel the narrative forward with relentless energy. This book is a genuine page-turner that I simply could not put down.

For anyone who loves a tightly-plotted story packed with high-stakes thrills, intense suspense, and genuine mystery, I cannot recommend I Owe You One highly enough. Prepare for twists and turns around every corner—you will not be disappointed!

Thank you to #NetGalley and #Bookouture for the ARC read in return for my honest opinion and review!

[Bossmanaries Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two sisters are the focal point of this story with the tagline: You saved my life, I will fake your death. The Intenseness of the thrills in this psychological thriller are crazy. Lack of boundaries, envy, obsession, manipulation and victim mentality are some traits exhibited throughout. Jess and Bryony are the two female leads taking us down a path of sisterhood that would be the highlight of a family reunion.

The book is told in a dual timeline with flashbacks but the present timeline,is only told from Jess’ view. While, it simplifies the narrative , I believe there were some crazy scares that could have been added from Bryony’s mind. All of the characters have both likable and unlikable traits that leave you guessing if the story is reliable or just a falsehood and a redirect.

As I listened to the narration, It took a little getting used to as the voice didn’t add more to the haunting terror presented. Maybe that was what was needed to give the voice of narcissism. Heather Long did just that and spoke like a suburban soccer mom.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #bolindaaudio for providing the advanced audio version in exchange for an honest review. 

#IOweYouOne

Rating: 4.25 stars

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC of I Owe You One by Lauren North.

This is a tense, twist-driven psychological thriller that hooks you quickly with a morally complex premise. Jess returns home hoping to reset her life, only to find her sister Bryony deeply entangled in a controlling marriage. When Bryony asks for help to fake her own death and reminds Jess of what she owes her, the story descends into something far darker and more unpredictable.

The plot leans into themes of loyalty, coercion and the weight of obligation, and the author builds a steady sense of unease as the situation escalates. The pacing is tight, with short, punchy chapters that work particularly well in audio, and just enough twists to keep you questioning motives without losing clarity.

The narration adds a lot to the experience. The delivery captures Jess’s anxiety and internal conflict effectively, giving the story a constant undercurrent of tension. Character voices are distinct without being overdone, and the pacing of the narration complements the suspense, making it an easy and compelling listen.

Overall, this is an addictive, well-structured thriller with a strong central dilemma and worthy of four stars.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

At 13, Jess's older sister Briony saved her from drowning. Now it is time for Jess to repay the debt, by helping Briony escape an abusive relatiionship with husband Alex. . Will the sisters escape danger?
This was a thrilling and fast-paced read. Told wholly from Jess's point of view in the present, and Briony and Jess's point of view at the time of the sailing accident, it gives us two voices - but can we wholly believe either of them, especially as Jess has reason to dislike her sister because she stole Alex from her?
Alongside the main plot of escape from manipulation and coercive control, there are subplots involving Jess's break-up from her husband Liam, and her fear of the debt collectors who are tracking her down. Meanwhile, the women's mother, a dementai sufferer, is in a care home.
With all this going on, the narrative rushes along. There are plenty twists and turns along the way, and some very unexpexted developments before we reach the denouement.
I'm always clued in for predictable twists in a story, and though I guessed one or two here, I certainly did not see the last few coming.
A nail-biting listen, narrated admirably by Heather Long, who gives both women strong and indepedent voices, while delivering the tension and menace of the story in spades.

[A Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grab on tight for this ride thrill lovers. This dark and deeply disturbing psychological tale will leave you breathless at every turn with chills running down your spine. I Owe You One is Lauren North's most chilling suspense yet.

A woman struggling financially returns to her hometown after losing the hotel she and her boyfriend owned. Now broken up with him for an indiscretion on his part, she tries to move forward with her life. When her sister comes to her and says her life is in danger, she decides to help her with her plan even though it goes against every inch of her being. But being a good sister could not prepare her for the events that unfold.

I loved everything about this book. It's fast-paced, twisty, dark and suspenseful. The characters are complex, making it difficult to differentiate who is a victim and who is a masterful manipulator. North has an uncanny ability to pull you in from the first page, take you on a hair raising ride, and finally relinquish you on the last page. If you love a twisty, wild roller-coaster ride, you must add this to your TBR list.

Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy

[Mal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the advanced audiobook.

Jess's life has fallen apart. The hotel that she started with her boyfriend, Liam, has failed; she owes money to the bank; her relationship with Liam has also failed; and she has no other choice but to move back to her childhood home. At least she'll be near her older sister, Briony. But when she finally sees Briony, Jess is surprised by how skittish her normally bold sister is. And then she's shocked when Briony reveals that her husband has been abusing her and she needs Jess's help to fake her own death. After Briony has disappeared, Jess starts to question many of the details that Briony gave about her marriage--was Briony lying this whole time? And if so, why?

I OWE YOU ONE was a solid mystery/thriller. The characters were interesting enough to follow through the story (though much of the heavy lifting felt like it was being done by the excellent audiobook narrator). The big twist of the novel felt kind of obvious and some of the smaller reveals verged on silly, but overall it was an entertaining read.

I Owe You One is out April 8, 2026

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A deliciously twisty audiobook about two once inseparable sisters, two sisters who would do anything for each other...or would they? Briony, the eldest, is the fashionista married to a popular artist, living in a big house. Her sister, Jess, is the MFC, the one who almost drowned in a boating accident and has Briony to thank for saving her life. Jess' life is falling apart after she came so close to achieving all her dreams. Can she ask her sister for help? But now, Briony is the one asking Jess for help.
I listen to a lot of mysteries and thought I had this figured out, but I was wrong. Sure, I guessed one or two things just before they were revealed, but the main beats I didn't see coming, which I love. If you've ever doubted yourself or someone you are close with, this book might just keep you up at night! The narration is good, building the suspense with tone and pace of voice. I enjoyed it. 46 rounded up. I look forward to more books by @LaurenNorth
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BolindaAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #IOweYouOne for review purposes. Publication date: 8 April 2026.

[Larae Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently listened to I Owe You One by Lauren North*, thanks to an ARC from NetGalley, and overall it was a gripping and emotionally engaging experience.
The audiobook format really worked well for this story. The narration added an extra layer of tension and atmosphere, pulling me deeper into the psychological elements of the plot. It made the twists feel more immediate and the emotional moments hit harder.
The story itself blends suspense with deeper themes like guilt, memory, and trust. I was hooked early on, and while there were a few slower moments in the middle, the pacing overall kept me invested. The buildup pays off with a satisfying and thought-provoking ending.
The characters felt complex and realistic, and hearing their voices brought them to life in a way that made their struggles and decisions even more compelling—even when they were frustrating.
Overall, I’d give this 4 stars. The combination of a strong story and engaging narration made it a really worthwhile listen. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of character-driven psychological thrillers—especially in audiobook form.
If you want, I can make it shorter for Goodreads or punchier for social media.

[Angel **Book Junkie** · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley, and Lauren North for a copy of I Owe You One in exchange for my honest review.

I’m giving this one 3 stars.

This story centers around two sisters, with Jess discovering that what she believed for years… isn’t exactly the truth. From there, things take a dramatic turn as she tries to help her sister escape her controlling husband, Alex—by helping her fake her death. Yes, the premise? Absolutely intriguing.

But here’s the thing…

The pacing? Oof. It was slow. Like, “are we getting to the good part or…?” kind of slow. It took a while to really dig into the drama, and I found myself losing a bit of interest about halfway through.

And the ending? I wanted more. I was expecting something bigger, bolder, more jaw-dropping—and it just didn’t quite hit that “WOW” moment I was hoping for.

That said, it wasn’t a bad read. The concept is solid, the tension is there, and if you stick with it, it does come together.

Final verdict:
A decent, twisty sister drama with a strong premise—but be prepared for a slower build and an ending that doesn’t quite go as hard as it could have. Worth a read, just maybe not a binge.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really fun thriller. Not in a "funny-haha" way, but more in an everyone-is-unhinged way. Please give me all the dysfunctional relationships I can handle in a thriller! All the different motives kept me guessing, and I actually liked the dual timeline because it felt like getting two mystery thrillers in one.

Heather Long was great and she really captured the sisters' different personalities, as well as the supporting characters. I'm somewhat familiar with her from a few other audiobooks, but she's definitely more on my radar now. It was especially helpful that I could maintain a faster listening speed and still understand her perfectly. Sometimes that's an issue with non-American accents, but it wasn't here.

On a brief tangent: I'm low-key obsessed with Bolinda Audio. I love discovering new authors and styles, and I find the titles coming out of Australia to be delightful, from quirky romances to disturbing thrillers. I regularly seek out Bolinda titles even though they aren't always common in the US, so I was thrilled when I got approved for this one.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the ALC. I Owe You One comes out April 8, 2026.