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The People Next Door
Dear Neighbour. I know who you are. I know what you did…
After that summer, I swore I’d never come back to Clover Lane. But when my aunt left us her house, I couldn’t say no. The last in a neat row of houses with white fences and countryside views, it was the life I’d always dreamed of for my family. They deserved it, even if I didn’t.
As the last boxes are unpacked and neighbours drop by to welcome us, I see the sparkle back in my daughter Morgan’s eyes and know we’re safe. I won’t ever let her near the woods where my best friend went missing, but welcome gifts and a coffee date with my neighbours have me feeling like we belong here. But then the first letter arrives, and my perfect new life shatters…
Suddenly, I notice curtains twitch as I unload the car and I find myself looking over my shoulder every time I leave the house. When more letters arrive and rumours poison the street, I start double-locking the doors at night. How much do I really know about the people next door? Are my children safe? Is there anyone I can trust?
Someone in this close-knit community thinks they know what happened that summer. I know they’re wrong, but my worst fear is realised when the last letter Morgan is missing…
If you loved reading The Housemaid , The Perfect Marriage and The Girl on the Train , you will devour this absolutely jaw-dropping psychological thriller from Carla Kovach.
What readers are saying about Carla
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Another amazing five-star read… A fast-paced rollercoaster of a read and had me gripped from the very beginning so much so that I read it in one sitting.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The literal definition of a page-turner, I read this in one sitting… Absolutely WILD and wow holy cliffhanger!! I physically gasped out loud… A fantastic 5-star read.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I had so many emotions as I read this book. I was screaming… This book consumed me till the very end.’ Askawayblog
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller… I was gripped from the very first page! It was a wild ride… Addictive. It sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions and didn’t let me go until the very end!… This is definitely a must-read!’ Arcreviews_by_m
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fast-paced, one-sitting read! It’s like a boulder rolling down a hill, it just keeps picking up speed as it goes.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Wow, wow, and more wow!!!!! I couldn’t put this one down for the life of me. I read this in just a few sittings… Left me totally speechless… I thought my head was going to explode… Fantastic… Gripped and on the edge of your seat throughout… Heart attack of an ending.
After that summer, I swore I’d never come back to Clover Lane. But when my aunt left us her house, I couldn’t say no. The last in a neat row of houses with white fences and countryside views, it was the life I’d always dreamed of for my family. They deserved it, even if I didn’t.
As the last boxes are unpacked and neighbours drop by to welcome us, I see the sparkle back in my daughter Morgan’s eyes and know we’re safe. I won’t ever let her near the woods where my best friend went missing, but welcome gifts and a coffee date with my neighbours have me feeling like we belong here. But then the first letter arrives, and my perfect new life shatters…
Suddenly, I notice curtains twitch as I unload the car and I find myself looking over my shoulder every time I leave the house. When more letters arrive and rumours poison the street, I start double-locking the doors at night. How much do I really know about the people next door? Are my children safe? Is there anyone I can trust?
Someone in this close-knit community thinks they know what happened that summer. I know they’re wrong, but my worst fear is realised when the last letter Morgan is missing…
If you loved reading The Housemaid , The Perfect Marriage and The Girl on the Train , you will devour this absolutely jaw-dropping psychological thriller from Carla Kovach.
What readers are saying about Carla
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Another amazing five-star read… A fast-paced rollercoaster of a read and had me gripped from the very beginning so much so that I read it in one sitting.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘The literal definition of a page-turner, I read this in one sitting… Absolutely WILD and wow holy cliffhanger!! I physically gasped out loud… A fantastic 5-star read.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I had so many emotions as I read this book. I was screaming… This book consumed me till the very end.’ Askawayblog
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thriller… I was gripped from the very first page! It was a wild ride… Addictive. It sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions and didn’t let me go until the very end!… This is definitely a must-read!’ Arcreviews_by_m
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fast-paced, one-sitting read! It’s like a boulder rolling down a hill, it just keeps picking up speed as it goes.’ Goodreads reviewer
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Wow, wow, and more wow!!!!! I couldn’t put this one down for the life of me. I read this in just a few sittings… Left me totally speechless… I thought my head was going to explode… Fantastic… Gripped and on the edge of your seat throughout… Heart attack of an ending.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
Carla Kovach
39 books1,147 followersCarla Kovach was born in Birmingham, UK and now resides in Redditch, Worcestershire. Author of supernatural drama 'Flame,' psychological thriller 'To Let,' crime thriller 'Whispers Beneath the Pines, and romantic comedy 'Meet Me at Marmaris Castle.' Carla also writes stage and screen plays, some of which have been produced in the Worcestershire area.
Her new novel 'The Next Girl,' is available for preorder now. (Published by Bookouture).
Her new novel 'The Next Girl,' is available for preorder now. (Published by Bookouture).
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
June 20, 2026
Gemma inherits her aunt's house and returns to Clover Lane with her husband Ethan, teenage daughter Morgan and toddler Cora. However, what was supposed to be a new beginning is shattered by mysterious letters that reveal unsettling truths about the community and Gemma's past.
This is a well done audiobook. Tamsin Kennard and Annette Chown, the narrators, did an excellent job voicing the different characters; in fact I would've sworn there were more than two narrators. Even the British accents seemed to vary. As far as the story itself, it was okay but I wasn't totally drawn in. The plot has a lot of potential but it fell short in the execution. There's a lot of repetition and explaining that was unnecessary. I think it could've been tightened up a bit to increase the suspense. The characters are not very likeable, except maybe for Morgan and Cora, and I especially disliked Gemma. The "unsettling truths" about Gemma's past weren't much of a shock but I think that has a lot to do with how it was presented. I suspect the written edition would've been a slog for me but I never once considered dnf'ng the audiobook.
Thank you to Bookouture Audio for approving my request to listen to this audiobook in advance of the publication date via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Date Published: June 2, 2026
This is a well done audiobook. Tamsin Kennard and Annette Chown, the narrators, did an excellent job voicing the different characters; in fact I would've sworn there were more than two narrators. Even the British accents seemed to vary. As far as the story itself, it was okay but I wasn't totally drawn in. The plot has a lot of potential but it fell short in the execution. There's a lot of repetition and explaining that was unnecessary. I think it could've been tightened up a bit to increase the suspense. The characters are not very likeable, except maybe for Morgan and Cora, and I especially disliked Gemma. The "unsettling truths" about Gemma's past weren't much of a shock but I think that has a lot to do with how it was presented. I suspect the written edition would've been a slog for me but I never once considered dnf'ng the audiobook.
Thank you to Bookouture Audio for approving my request to listen to this audiobook in advance of the publication date via Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
Date Published: June 2, 2026
June 9, 2026
This is a paranoia-filled thriller. Gemma returns to a place from her childhood and encounters more than she bargained for. Instead of suburban tranquility, troubling, mysterious events begin to unravel her peaceful home. I enjoyed the perspectives of Gemma, Quinn, and Morgan as secrets were revealed and lives were changed forever. The narration masterfully brought the characters to life adding emotion and intensity. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for my audiobook.
June 5, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of The People Next Door by Carla Kovach. This is my second novel by this author. I am an outlier on this one. It was good, suspenseful but just seemed to drag on. My life did get in the way of reading it, and had I been able to read it through more quickly, I may have had a different opinion. I found it to be very repetitive. It is engaging enough at times but not my favourite domestic thriller. Give it a try. Like I said, I wasn't in the right head space. A 3 star rating from me.
May 27, 2026
✨ALC review✨
This thriller is definitely a page turner! I did not know what to hypothesize, had no idea who the culprit was with the mysterious letters, and what happened to Jazmin in the past. Then that epilogue really left me speechless! I feel like this would be a great show or movie. Highly recommend!
The People Next Door will be released on June 2nd!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
This thriller is definitely a page turner! I did not know what to hypothesize, had no idea who the culprit was with the mysterious letters, and what happened to Jazmin in the past. Then that epilogue really left me speechless! I feel like this would be a great show or movie. Highly recommend!
The People Next Door will be released on June 2nd!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gemma reluctantly returns to Clover Lane after inheriting her aunt's house, seeking a peaceful life for her daughter, Morgan. However, their new beginning is disrupted by mysterious letters that reveal unsettling truths about the community and Gemma's past. As she grapples with the impact of these letters and her daughter's safety, paranoia sets in, leading her to question her neighbors and the events surrounding her best friend's disappearance. The tension escalates when Morgan goes missing, amplifying Gemma's fears and sense of betrayal.
The cover and dedication of this book immediately drew me in. As a military family that has moved around for the past 22 years, I found the dedication particularly relatable, as each relocation brings its own challenges. It takes time to feel like you belong, but just as you start to settle, it’s time to move on again.
The prologue is gripping and dramatic, making it clear that you're in for a thrilling ride that won’t let up until the end! The story unfolds through the perspectives of Gemma, Morgan, and Quinn. As we delve into the characters’ lives, we begin to understand the dread Gemma feels about returning. She’s a likeable character facing numerous challenges, but her self-centered moments can be a bit frustrating. She constantly acknowledges that she needs to recognize Morgan's help, yet something always gets in the way of her doing so, which annoyed me!
Morgan is a young, smart, and friendly character who grapples with the responsibilities of being a firstborn, which parents often expect. Her relatable whining adds authenticity to her character. Quinn and her son, Harry, also play crucial roles in the story, as the dark secrets lurking within each character are ready to surface.
The small neighborhood feels unwelcoming to newcomers, and the palpable paranoia in the residents’ behavior enhances the story’s realism. I certainly wouldn’t want to live there! With such strange people around, it’s easy to imagine that if you’ve caused trouble in your past, they’ll never see you as changed. The drama, lies, and constant tension keep you on your toes, leading you to suspect everyone at one point!
The audiobook narrators did an excellent job of bringing the story to life. While I noticed some reviews mentioning the book’s pace, the audiobook elevated the experience for me. The characters came alive just as I had imagined, and the eerie, atmospheric setting was perfectly captured. The choice of narration was spot on!
Overall, this is a fantastic revenge-fueled read about a lost child, filled with unexpected twists and an unpredictable ending. Although it might be considered a slow-burning mystery, listening to the audiobook truly made it an exceptional experience. This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys toxic neighborhood drama, cold case mysteries, revenge, and betrayal. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to take my dogs for a walk, but I think I’ll steer clear of the woods for now! Ha!
Thank you, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The cover and dedication of this book immediately drew me in. As a military family that has moved around for the past 22 years, I found the dedication particularly relatable, as each relocation brings its own challenges. It takes time to feel like you belong, but just as you start to settle, it’s time to move on again.
The prologue is gripping and dramatic, making it clear that you're in for a thrilling ride that won’t let up until the end! The story unfolds through the perspectives of Gemma, Morgan, and Quinn. As we delve into the characters’ lives, we begin to understand the dread Gemma feels about returning. She’s a likeable character facing numerous challenges, but her self-centered moments can be a bit frustrating. She constantly acknowledges that she needs to recognize Morgan's help, yet something always gets in the way of her doing so, which annoyed me!
Morgan is a young, smart, and friendly character who grapples with the responsibilities of being a firstborn, which parents often expect. Her relatable whining adds authenticity to her character. Quinn and her son, Harry, also play crucial roles in the story, as the dark secrets lurking within each character are ready to surface.
The small neighborhood feels unwelcoming to newcomers, and the palpable paranoia in the residents’ behavior enhances the story’s realism. I certainly wouldn’t want to live there! With such strange people around, it’s easy to imagine that if you’ve caused trouble in your past, they’ll never see you as changed. The drama, lies, and constant tension keep you on your toes, leading you to suspect everyone at one point!
The audiobook narrators did an excellent job of bringing the story to life. While I noticed some reviews mentioning the book’s pace, the audiobook elevated the experience for me. The characters came alive just as I had imagined, and the eerie, atmospheric setting was perfectly captured. The choice of narration was spot on!
Overall, this is a fantastic revenge-fueled read about a lost child, filled with unexpected twists and an unpredictable ending. Although it might be considered a slow-burning mystery, listening to the audiobook truly made it an exceptional experience. This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys toxic neighborhood drama, cold case mysteries, revenge, and betrayal. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to take my dogs for a walk, but I think I’ll steer clear of the woods for now! Ha!
Thank you, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 4, 2026
It should be a fresh start for Gemma and her family when she inherits a house from her aunt. The property is located on Clover Lane, a place Gemma had once vowed never to return to. Still, she hopes the move will be a positive change, especially for her daughter Morgan.
Unfortunately, the peaceful new beginning Gemma envisions quickly proves to be anything but. A traumatic event from her past continues to haunt her, and almost as soon as she returns, she begins receiving disturbing letters. Their contents are unsettling, and for reasons Gemma cannot fully explain, she becomes convinced that Morgan is in danger. She repeatedly warns her daughter never to enter the woods. Sadly, the woods are the very place where Gemma’s life changed forever.
I loved the setup of this story and the emotional depth created through its shifting points of view. Gemma’s fear and anxiety are palpable throughout, while teenage Morgan’s determination to uncover the truth and solve the mystery surrounding her mother’s past adds an engaging layer of tension. Their first-person narratives give the story a strong emotional impact and keep the reader invested in both perspectives.
Gemma also has a young daughter, Quinn, an energetic toddler. I appreciated how Gemma navigated the growing uncertainty around Morgan while remaining fiercely protective of Quinn. Then there is her relationship with her husband, Ethan. While Gemma believes their marriage is unshakable, there are even more concerning issues then it comes to their marriage.
Carla Kovach has crafted another compelling and immersive thriller. It was incredibly easy to step into both Gemma’s and Morgan’s shoes as the mystery unfolded. The audiobook narrators, Tamsin Kennard and Annette Chown, delivered outstanding performances, bringing both protagonists vividly to life and enhancing the emotional intensity of the story.
Whether she is captivating readers with her Detective Gina Harte series or keeping them on edge with her standalone novels, Carla Kovach consistently delivers gripping, character-driven suspense. The People Next Door is another strong example of her talent for creating tension, mystery, and unforgettable characters.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Unfortunately, the peaceful new beginning Gemma envisions quickly proves to be anything but. A traumatic event from her past continues to haunt her, and almost as soon as she returns, she begins receiving disturbing letters. Their contents are unsettling, and for reasons Gemma cannot fully explain, she becomes convinced that Morgan is in danger. She repeatedly warns her daughter never to enter the woods. Sadly, the woods are the very place where Gemma’s life changed forever.
I loved the setup of this story and the emotional depth created through its shifting points of view. Gemma’s fear and anxiety are palpable throughout, while teenage Morgan’s determination to uncover the truth and solve the mystery surrounding her mother’s past adds an engaging layer of tension. Their first-person narratives give the story a strong emotional impact and keep the reader invested in both perspectives.
Gemma also has a young daughter, Quinn, an energetic toddler. I appreciated how Gemma navigated the growing uncertainty around Morgan while remaining fiercely protective of Quinn. Then there is her relationship with her husband, Ethan. While Gemma believes their marriage is unshakable, there are even more concerning issues then it comes to their marriage.
Carla Kovach has crafted another compelling and immersive thriller. It was incredibly easy to step into both Gemma’s and Morgan’s shoes as the mystery unfolded. The audiobook narrators, Tamsin Kennard and Annette Chown, delivered outstanding performances, bringing both protagonists vividly to life and enhancing the emotional intensity of the story.
Whether she is captivating readers with her Detective Gina Harte series or keeping them on edge with her standalone novels, Carla Kovach consistently delivers gripping, character-driven suspense. The People Next Door is another strong example of her talent for creating tension, mystery, and unforgettable characters.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 5, 2026
You can always count on a Carla Kovach book to keep you up late reading and The People Next Door is no exception. Gemma moves back to Clover Lane, a place she swore she'd never return. However, her Aunt died from a fall off her balcony and the house now belongs to Gemma. Gemma's husband admits to her it's good timing as he's lost all of their money and not having a mortgage will help tremendously. They pack up everything and move to Clover Lane with their 2 children. When things start happening after they move in, Gemma is sure this is a big mistake. Letters start arriving, neighbors are staring, noises are heard in the attic, and then there's the woods where the tragedy happened when Gemma was young. She's told her teenaged daughter, Morgan, not to go into the woods no matter what. Will Morgan listen? What happened to Gemma in the woods? Will she and her husband be able to fix up the house so it's fit to live in full time? Do they really want to live here? This book has many twists and turns that will have you flipping pages at a frantic pace. I rate The People Next Door 4 stars with a high recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of The People Next Door in exchange for a fair review.
May 29, 2026
This is one of those stories where you question everyone’s motives from the very beginning. Gemma inherits her aunt’s apartment after her aunt dies following a fall from her balcony. Clover Lane is the last place Gemma wants to return to, especially after her childhood friend disappeared from the nearby woods when they were teenagers. But after her husband’s poor financial decisions leave them struggling, her family has little choice but to move in.
Not long after they arrive, Gemma and her neighbours begin receiving cryptic letters exposing everyone’s secrets. The residents quickly connect the letters to Gemma’s return, turning suspicious of her family almost immediately.
I found the opening of the story far more gripping than the ending. As the plot developed, some elements became a little too far-fetched and unbelievable for me, which pulled me out of the story at times. I enjoyed several of the twists, although I did predict the final reveal fairly early on.
I liked the dual POVs between Gemma and her daughter, but some of their decisions were frustrating, particularly when it came to Cora, the baby of the family, who often seemed to be left in unsafe situations.
I read a lot of domestic thrillers, and while this wasn’t one of my favourites in the genre, it was still an engaging and fast-paced read that kept me turning the pages.
Not long after they arrive, Gemma and her neighbours begin receiving cryptic letters exposing everyone’s secrets. The residents quickly connect the letters to Gemma’s return, turning suspicious of her family almost immediately.
I found the opening of the story far more gripping than the ending. As the plot developed, some elements became a little too far-fetched and unbelievable for me, which pulled me out of the story at times. I enjoyed several of the twists, although I did predict the final reveal fairly early on.
I liked the dual POVs between Gemma and her daughter, but some of their decisions were frustrating, particularly when it came to Cora, the baby of the family, who often seemed to be left in unsafe situations.
I read a lot of domestic thrillers, and while this wasn’t one of my favourites in the genre, it was still an engaging and fast-paced read that kept me turning the pages.
June 2, 2026
3.5 stars
This is a good domestic thriller.
When Gemma returns to Clover Lane after inheriting her aunt’s house, she hopes for a fresh start for herself and her daughter, Morgan. Instead, they find a hostile neighbourhood full of secrets and suspicion.
They start to receive anonymous letters and soon start to question everything.
This is a slow burner but it builds up to a good ending.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a good domestic thriller.
When Gemma returns to Clover Lane after inheriting her aunt’s house, she hopes for a fresh start for herself and her daughter, Morgan. Instead, they find a hostile neighbourhood full of secrets and suspicion.
They start to receive anonymous letters and soon start to question everything.
This is a slow burner but it builds up to a good ending.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
May 12, 2026
The People Next Door is a domestic suspense story built around family secrets, a missing childhood neighbour, and the slow burn of betrayal. I enjoyed reading it overall as it’s the kind of book that’s easy to settle into, but it didn’t quite cross into exceptional territory for me. It was good, just not memorable.
The setup is strong: a tight‑knit neighbourhood, a friendship circle with cracks beneath the surface, and a disappearance that forces everyone to confront what they’ve been hiding. I liked the atmosphere and the tension simmering in the background. The author does a good job capturing that uneasy feeling of “you think you know the people around you until you don’t.”
What worked for me:
• The layered family secrets that slowly unravel
• The emotional pull of a missing person and the guilt that follows
• Short chapters that made it easy to binge
What didn’t land as strongly:
• The reveals were predictable, and I could see the twist forming early
• Characters felt a little underdeveloped, especially in emotional moments
• Nothing truly stood out as it followed familiar domestic‑thriller beats
Breakdown:
• Setting: 3⭐️
• Characters: 2⭐️
• Writing: 2⭐️
• Message: 3⭐️
• Overall: 3⭐️
Overall, this is a solid, easy read for fans of neighbourhood drama and hidden truths. It won’t blow your mind, but it delivers enough tension to keep you engaged. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.
~JaNnA~
The setup is strong: a tight‑knit neighbourhood, a friendship circle with cracks beneath the surface, and a disappearance that forces everyone to confront what they’ve been hiding. I liked the atmosphere and the tension simmering in the background. The author does a good job capturing that uneasy feeling of “you think you know the people around you until you don’t.”
What worked for me:
• The layered family secrets that slowly unravel
• The emotional pull of a missing person and the guilt that follows
• Short chapters that made it easy to binge
What didn’t land as strongly:
• The reveals were predictable, and I could see the twist forming early
• Characters felt a little underdeveloped, especially in emotional moments
• Nothing truly stood out as it followed familiar domestic‑thriller beats
Breakdown:
• Setting: 3⭐️
• Characters: 2⭐️
• Writing: 2⭐️
• Message: 3⭐️
• Overall: 3⭐️
Overall, this is a solid, easy read for fans of neighbourhood drama and hidden truths. It won’t blow your mind, but it delivers enough tension to keep you engaged. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.
~JaNnA~
May 30, 2026
This was a pretty decent domestic thriller and such a quick, easy listen on audio. It does start off a little slow, but around the halfway point the pace really picks up and the tension keeps building from there.
The story follows Gemma, who reluctantly returns to Clover Lane after inheriting her aunt’s house, hoping for a fresh start for herself and her daughter, Morgan. But their new beginning quickly turns unsettling when anonymous letters start appearing, exposing dark secrets about the neighborhood and Gemma’s past. As paranoia grows and old wounds resurface, Gemma begins questioning everyone around her. Then Morgan disappears, turning everything into a nightmare.
What really elevated this book for me was the audiobook. The narrators did such an amazing job bringing the characters and atmosphere to life. I saw some reviews mentioning pacing issues, but honestly I think the audio format made the experience much more immersive. The eerie neighborhood setting, the tension between neighbors, and the emotional moments all felt so vivid.
Overall, this is a revenge-fueled mystery filled with betrayal, toxic neighborhood drama, cold case elements, and plenty of twists. The ending definitely kept me guessing, and while it’s more of a slow-burn mystery than a nonstop thriller, the audiobook made it such an enjoyable experience.
If you enjoy messy neighborhood secrets, missing child mysteries, revenge plots, and unreliable characters, this one is worth checking out.
The story follows Gemma, who reluctantly returns to Clover Lane after inheriting her aunt’s house, hoping for a fresh start for herself and her daughter, Morgan. But their new beginning quickly turns unsettling when anonymous letters start appearing, exposing dark secrets about the neighborhood and Gemma’s past. As paranoia grows and old wounds resurface, Gemma begins questioning everyone around her. Then Morgan disappears, turning everything into a nightmare.
What really elevated this book for me was the audiobook. The narrators did such an amazing job bringing the characters and atmosphere to life. I saw some reviews mentioning pacing issues, but honestly I think the audio format made the experience much more immersive. The eerie neighborhood setting, the tension between neighbors, and the emotional moments all felt so vivid.
Overall, this is a revenge-fueled mystery filled with betrayal, toxic neighborhood drama, cold case elements, and plenty of twists. The ending definitely kept me guessing, and while it’s more of a slow-burn mystery than a nonstop thriller, the audiobook made it such an enjoyable experience.
If you enjoy messy neighborhood secrets, missing child mysteries, revenge plots, and unreliable characters, this one is worth checking out.
June 9, 2026
This is only my second book by Carla Kovach, but she is already becoming one of my favorite authors. This was so good and gripping! It is fast paced and the suspence just doesn't stop. It makes you want to finish the book in one sitting, because you want to keep on reading. Highly recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 22, 2026
Who doesn’t love a suburban domestic thriller as we head into summer? This one had me questioning literally everyone!
Gemma inherits her aunt’s apartment after her aunt dies from falling from her balcony. Clover Lane is the last place Gemma wants to return to, especially after her friend went missing from the nearby woods when she was a teenager. But her husband’s poor financial decisions mean that her family has no choice, so they move in. It isn’t long before she and her neighbours start receiving cryptic letters detailing everyone’s secrets. Her neighbours of course accuse her as the newbie. With fingers pointing in every direction and strange things starting to happening in her house, Gemma tries to get to the bottom of who is writing these letters while confronting her past and trying to protect her growing family.
Overall, I enjoyed this one and read it pretty fast! I liked the overall pacing of the story, the characters, and the character development. I also just loved the tension throughout the book with the neighbors. I love a good “whodunnit” and in that way since I was suspecting pretty much everyone in the story at one point or another, even the main characters themselves, I’d say this was a great thriller!
In the middle, for me there were certain parts that dragged and I was just anxious to get towards the real heart of the story. The twists were overall satisfying for me, though I did feel that the wrapping up of the climax took a bit long.
There was also some repetitiveness for me in constantly bringing up the safety of the children and unborn baby. I understand that obviously as a mother, that would be the concern, but I felt that I didn’t need to be reminded of it multiple times throughout the same chapter! That’s just me being picky though.
Overall, I liked this one as a thriller. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Bookouture for this ARC!
Gemma inherits her aunt’s apartment after her aunt dies from falling from her balcony. Clover Lane is the last place Gemma wants to return to, especially after her friend went missing from the nearby woods when she was a teenager. But her husband’s poor financial decisions mean that her family has no choice, so they move in. It isn’t long before she and her neighbours start receiving cryptic letters detailing everyone’s secrets. Her neighbours of course accuse her as the newbie. With fingers pointing in every direction and strange things starting to happening in her house, Gemma tries to get to the bottom of who is writing these letters while confronting her past and trying to protect her growing family.
Overall, I enjoyed this one and read it pretty fast! I liked the overall pacing of the story, the characters, and the character development. I also just loved the tension throughout the book with the neighbors. I love a good “whodunnit” and in that way since I was suspecting pretty much everyone in the story at one point or another, even the main characters themselves, I’d say this was a great thriller!
In the middle, for me there were certain parts that dragged and I was just anxious to get towards the real heart of the story. The twists were overall satisfying for me, though I did feel that the wrapping up of the climax took a bit long.
There was also some repetitiveness for me in constantly bringing up the safety of the children and unborn baby. I understand that obviously as a mother, that would be the concern, but I felt that I didn’t need to be reminded of it multiple times throughout the same chapter! That’s just me being picky though.
Overall, I liked this one as a thriller. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Bookouture for this ARC!
June 8, 2026
Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley, and Carla Kovach for providing me with an advance copy of The People Next Door in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit, by the time I finished this book, I felt like I had spent several hours watching an endless marathon of Tom and Jerry mixed with Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner. You know the formula: chase, crash, recover, repeat. Zoom. Boom. Zoom. Boom. Over and over again.
The People Next Door starts with an intriguing premise. Suspicious neighbors, hidden motives, mounting tension—on paper, this should have been exactly the kind of domestic thriller that keeps me glued to the pages. Unfortunately, the execution left me feeling like I was stuck on a loop.
Every time it seemed like the story was about to move forward or reveal something substantial, another twist, confrontation, or revelation would send the characters racing off in a different direction. Then we'd circle right back to where we started. The constant back-and-forth created motion, but not necessarily progress. It felt as though everyone was running very fast while standing in exactly the same spot.
The characters themselves were difficult to connect with. I spent much of the book questioning everyone's decisions and wondering if any of them had ever stopped to think, "Maybe this isn't a great idea." Their actions often felt driven by the needs of the plot rather than by believable motivations, which made it harder for me to invest emotionally in their outcomes.
To be fair, Carla Kovach knows how to create suspense. There were moments that genuinely made me curious about what would happen next, and the writing itself kept the pages turning. The problem was that each new development began to feel less exciting and more exhausting. Instead of building tension, the repetitive cycle of suspicion, reaction, and escalation started to wear thin.
By the final chapters, I wasn't eagerly anticipating the conclusion as much as I was hoping someone would finally catch the Road Runner. Unfortunately, when the ending arrived, it didn't deliver enough payoff to justify the long chase. The revelations were fine, but they lacked the impact I was hoping for after so much buildup.
Readers who enjoy domestic thrillers packed with constant drama and endless twists may find more to love here than I did. For me, however, the story felt stretched out, repetitive, and ultimately less satisfying than its promising premise suggested.
⭐⭐
2 Stars
Final Verdict: Like watching Wile E. Coyote order another gadget from Acme, I kept expecting this chase to lead somewhere spectacular. Instead, it was mostly Zoom. Boom. Repeat. Entertaining in short bursts, but by the end I was ready for the cartoon to be over.
I have to admit, by the time I finished this book, I felt like I had spent several hours watching an endless marathon of Tom and Jerry mixed with Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner. You know the formula: chase, crash, recover, repeat. Zoom. Boom. Zoom. Boom. Over and over again.
The People Next Door starts with an intriguing premise. Suspicious neighbors, hidden motives, mounting tension—on paper, this should have been exactly the kind of domestic thriller that keeps me glued to the pages. Unfortunately, the execution left me feeling like I was stuck on a loop.
Every time it seemed like the story was about to move forward or reveal something substantial, another twist, confrontation, or revelation would send the characters racing off in a different direction. Then we'd circle right back to where we started. The constant back-and-forth created motion, but not necessarily progress. It felt as though everyone was running very fast while standing in exactly the same spot.
The characters themselves were difficult to connect with. I spent much of the book questioning everyone's decisions and wondering if any of them had ever stopped to think, "Maybe this isn't a great idea." Their actions often felt driven by the needs of the plot rather than by believable motivations, which made it harder for me to invest emotionally in their outcomes.
To be fair, Carla Kovach knows how to create suspense. There were moments that genuinely made me curious about what would happen next, and the writing itself kept the pages turning. The problem was that each new development began to feel less exciting and more exhausting. Instead of building tension, the repetitive cycle of suspicion, reaction, and escalation started to wear thin.
By the final chapters, I wasn't eagerly anticipating the conclusion as much as I was hoping someone would finally catch the Road Runner. Unfortunately, when the ending arrived, it didn't deliver enough payoff to justify the long chase. The revelations were fine, but they lacked the impact I was hoping for after so much buildup.
Readers who enjoy domestic thrillers packed with constant drama and endless twists may find more to love here than I did. For me, however, the story felt stretched out, repetitive, and ultimately less satisfying than its promising premise suggested.
⭐⭐
2 Stars
Final Verdict: Like watching Wile E. Coyote order another gadget from Acme, I kept expecting this chase to lead somewhere spectacular. Instead, it was mostly Zoom. Boom. Repeat. Entertaining in short bursts, but by the end I was ready for the cartoon to be over.
June 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a bingeable thriller 👀
From the very beginning, I found myself questioning everyone and trying to piece together what was really going on behind closed doors. The secrets between the neighbors, the tension building with every chapter, and the constant feeling that something wasn’t quite right kept me completely hooked.
I loved how the story slowly revealed pieces of the past while still keeping the biggest mysteries hidden. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another twist would make me second-guess everything 😅
The short chapters and fast pace made it impossible to put down, and I found myself constantly saying “just one more chapter.”
If you enjoy domestic thrillers packed with suspense, secrets, and plenty of twists, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. 📚✨
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a bingeable thriller 👀
From the very beginning, I found myself questioning everyone and trying to piece together what was really going on behind closed doors. The secrets between the neighbors, the tension building with every chapter, and the constant feeling that something wasn’t quite right kept me completely hooked.
I loved how the story slowly revealed pieces of the past while still keeping the biggest mysteries hidden. Every time I thought I had things figured out, another twist would make me second-guess everything 😅
The short chapters and fast pace made it impossible to put down, and I found myself constantly saying “just one more chapter.”
If you enjoy domestic thrillers packed with suspense, secrets, and plenty of twists, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. 📚✨
May 22, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This book had me guessing from the beginning and questioning all of the people in the neighborhood. I loved how this book kept hinting at what had happened in the past and how it could be the cause of the events in the present without giving away what those past events were. That mysterious past really made this book so thrilling and pulled me in because I just wanted to know what had occurred.
This book had me guessing from the beginning and questioning all of the people in the neighborhood. I loved how this book kept hinting at what had happened in the past and how it could be the cause of the events in the present without giving away what those past events were. That mysterious past really made this book so thrilling and pulled me in because I just wanted to know what had occurred.
May 24, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy from NetGalley on audio.
Really enjoyed this on audio, started off as a good mystery and got quite twisty. Kept me hooked and I liked all the characters. The narration was great, voices really fitted the characters well. I will definitely be exploring more from the author!
Really enjoyed this on audio, started off as a good mystery and got quite twisty. Kept me hooked and I liked all the characters. The narration was great, voices really fitted the characters well. I will definitely be exploring more from the author!
June 10, 2026
First of all, a huge thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review! 🎧✨
This book definitely kept me listening, but it didn't quite hit the top spot for me as far as thrillers go. 🧐 The premise of the story was absolutely fascinating and had so much potential to be mind-blowing, but unfortunately, it just fell a bit short. 📉
The main character definitely tested my patience and got on my last nerve. 😅 neutrality-wise, some of the big "twists" lacked the proper backstory to really pack a punch. 🧩 Shaking it all out, it felt pretty middle-of-the-road for me, so I’m rating it right in the center at a solid 3 stars.🤷♀️
This book definitely kept me listening, but it didn't quite hit the top spot for me as far as thrillers go. 🧐 The premise of the story was absolutely fascinating and had so much potential to be mind-blowing, but unfortunately, it just fell a bit short. 📉
The main character definitely tested my patience and got on my last nerve. 😅 neutrality-wise, some of the big "twists" lacked the proper backstory to really pack a punch. 🧩 Shaking it all out, it felt pretty middle-of-the-road for me, so I’m rating it right in the center at a solid 3 stars.🤷♀️
May 24, 2026
The People Next Door
By Carla Kovach
Pub date: June 2, 2026
Narrated by Tamsin Kennard and Annette Chown
If you like psychological thrillers with twists, suspense, and neighborhood secrets, (loved the gossip!) I suggest this one. Can’t wait to read more books by Carla Kovach!
I enjoyed the narrators and will be searching for more books by them!
Thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
By Carla Kovach
Pub date: June 2, 2026
Narrated by Tamsin Kennard and Annette Chown
If you like psychological thrillers with twists, suspense, and neighborhood secrets, (loved the gossip!) I suggest this one. Can’t wait to read more books by Carla Kovach!
I enjoyed the narrators and will be searching for more books by them!
Thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
June 7, 2026
Good story but to drawn out before you get to the end of the story nearly gave up on it a few times.
May 15, 2026
Review of advance copy from the publisher.
When Gemma inherits her Aunt Doretta’s house on Clover Lane, she doesn’t want to go back, she hasn’t been there since she was a teenager. But Gemma and her family have no choice but to move to the house and fix it up to sell due to financial issues.
It’s not long before Gemma is full of anxiety, the neighbours are treating her and her family like dirt, and things start happening. Clover Lane is full of secrets, will anyone come out unscathed?
Ooh, what a dark and creepy story this one was! All the lies and secrets between the neighbours and the family were brilliant, I was on the edge of my seat at times.
I felt for Gemma’s teenage daughter, Morgan, and I liked the friendship that Morgan had with local boy, Harry.
There were plenty of twists in the story and they added to my enjoyment of the tale, so much so that I found myself binging the book to find out Clover Lane’s many hidden secrets.
When Gemma inherits her Aunt Doretta’s house on Clover Lane, she doesn’t want to go back, she hasn’t been there since she was a teenager. But Gemma and her family have no choice but to move to the house and fix it up to sell due to financial issues.
It’s not long before Gemma is full of anxiety, the neighbours are treating her and her family like dirt, and things start happening. Clover Lane is full of secrets, will anyone come out unscathed?
Ooh, what a dark and creepy story this one was! All the lies and secrets between the neighbours and the family were brilliant, I was on the edge of my seat at times.
I felt for Gemma’s teenage daughter, Morgan, and I liked the friendship that Morgan had with local boy, Harry.
There were plenty of twists in the story and they added to my enjoyment of the tale, so much so that I found myself binging the book to find out Clover Lane’s many hidden secrets.
May 25, 2026
This is a 2.5 rounded up due to great narration of the audiobook and the overall premise of the story.
I found maybe it wasn’t aimed at the target audience and was maybe more Young Adult than Mystery Thriller.
I found the story quite obvious throughout and often repetitive, going over the same aspects as of it wasn’t glaringly obvious what was happening.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the ALC 🎧
I found maybe it wasn’t aimed at the target audience and was maybe more Young Adult than Mystery Thriller.
I found the story quite obvious throughout and often repetitive, going over the same aspects as of it wasn’t glaringly obvious what was happening.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the ALC 🎧
May 26, 2026
Review of an advanced reader copy from NetGalley:
This is my second book by this author & I really enjoyed it!
Fast paced, suspenseful, engaging, and kept me guessing!
I was able to figure out the whodunit part, but this was definitely a wild ride!
This is my second book by this author & I really enjoyed it!
Fast paced, suspenseful, engaging, and kept me guessing!
I was able to figure out the whodunit part, but this was definitely a wild ride!
May 15, 2026
This was such a bingeable thriller 👀
The short chapters and constant twists made it incredibly easy to keep reading “just one more chapter” — and before I knew it, I was completely hooked.
I loved the tension, the secrets between neighbours, and the feeling that nobody could really be trusted. It kept me guessing the whole time and I genuinely didn’t see some of the reveals coming 😅
If you enjoy fast-paced domestic thrillers full of drama, suspicion and twists, this is definitely worth picking up
The short chapters and constant twists made it incredibly easy to keep reading “just one more chapter” — and before I knew it, I was completely hooked.
I loved the tension, the secrets between neighbours, and the feeling that nobody could really be trusted. It kept me guessing the whole time and I genuinely didn’t see some of the reveals coming 😅
If you enjoy fast-paced domestic thrillers full of drama, suspicion and twists, this is definitely worth picking up
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There is something uniquely unsettling about a story where your own front door doesn’t feel like a barrier against the world, but rather a target. Carla Kovach’s The People Next Door is a thriller that dives deep into the toxicity of a neighborhood fueled by paranoia, anonymous malice, and long-buried secrets.
Thank you, Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author Carla Kovach for the ARC.
The People Next Door completely pulled me into that uncomfortable “something is very wrong here” atmosphere almost immediately. The kind where every neighbour smiles at you one second and watches you through the curtains the next. Honestly? Clover Lane felt less like a neighbourhood and more like a pressure cooker waiting to explode.
The Plot: A Homecoming Turned Hostile
The story follows Gemma, who finds herself back on Clover Lane, the last place she ever wanted to be. After inheriting her Aunt Dorette’s crumbling house, financial necessity forces her family to move back to the site of a traumatic summer from her past. The tension is immediate: while Gemma grapples with old ghosts, her teenage daughter, Morgan, is trying to navigate life as the "new girl" in a neighborhood that quickly turns its back on them.
The catalyst is a series of disturbing, anonymous letters delivered to the residents of Clover Lane. The neighbors quickly point the finger at Morgan, igniting a firestorm of vitriol and rumors. What follows is a fast-paced descent into neighborhood warfare where no one is above suspicion.
Why It Works: Atmosphere and Pacing
The strongest asset of this novel is its suffocating atmosphere. Kovach masterfully captures the "small-town" feel where everyone is watching from behind twitching curtains. The use of dual perspectives from Gemma and Morgan adds a necessary layer of depth, showing how the neighborhood’s hostility affects different generations of the same family.
Suspense: While the first half maintains an even, steady burn, the pace accelerates significantly once the threats escalate beyond letters and rumors.
The Mystery: Watching Morgan and her neighbor, Harry, attempt to play detective with the notes provides a great hook, linking the current chaos back to Gemma’s mysterious past in the area.
While some of the plot beats and twists may feel familiar to seasoned thriller readers, the entertainment value remains high. It’s a bingeable, addictive read that makes you question how well you truly know the people living just a few feet away. It explores the dark side of community and the terrifying speed at which a "good neighbor" can turn into a predator.
Verdict: A solid, high-tension domestic thriller perfect for fans of neighborhood-centric suspense. If you enjoy fast-paced domestic suspense where trust disappears almost instantly, and everyone seems guilty of something, this one is definitely worth adding to your list.
Thank you, Netgalley, Bookouture, and the author Carla Kovach for the ARC.
The People Next Door completely pulled me into that uncomfortable “something is very wrong here” atmosphere almost immediately. The kind where every neighbour smiles at you one second and watches you through the curtains the next. Honestly? Clover Lane felt less like a neighbourhood and more like a pressure cooker waiting to explode.
The Plot: A Homecoming Turned Hostile
The story follows Gemma, who finds herself back on Clover Lane, the last place she ever wanted to be. After inheriting her Aunt Dorette’s crumbling house, financial necessity forces her family to move back to the site of a traumatic summer from her past. The tension is immediate: while Gemma grapples with old ghosts, her teenage daughter, Morgan, is trying to navigate life as the "new girl" in a neighborhood that quickly turns its back on them.
The catalyst is a series of disturbing, anonymous letters delivered to the residents of Clover Lane. The neighbors quickly point the finger at Morgan, igniting a firestorm of vitriol and rumors. What follows is a fast-paced descent into neighborhood warfare where no one is above suspicion.
Why It Works: Atmosphere and Pacing
The strongest asset of this novel is its suffocating atmosphere. Kovach masterfully captures the "small-town" feel where everyone is watching from behind twitching curtains. The use of dual perspectives from Gemma and Morgan adds a necessary layer of depth, showing how the neighborhood’s hostility affects different generations of the same family.
Suspense: While the first half maintains an even, steady burn, the pace accelerates significantly once the threats escalate beyond letters and rumors.
The Mystery: Watching Morgan and her neighbor, Harry, attempt to play detective with the notes provides a great hook, linking the current chaos back to Gemma’s mysterious past in the area.
While some of the plot beats and twists may feel familiar to seasoned thriller readers, the entertainment value remains high. It’s a bingeable, addictive read that makes you question how well you truly know the people living just a few feet away. It explores the dark side of community and the terrifying speed at which a "good neighbor" can turn into a predator.
Verdict: A solid, high-tension domestic thriller perfect for fans of neighborhood-centric suspense. If you enjoy fast-paced domestic suspense where trust disappears almost instantly, and everyone seems guilty of something, this one is definitely worth adding to your list.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🎧 ALC Review 📚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🗓 PUB DATE: June 02, 2026
☘️Setting☘️:
❄️ Winter
🍀Clover Lane
🏡 Small Community
Clover Woods
🏚Abandoned Shack (The Den)
Clover Lane is in a small isolated countryside town. There's not much to do, though there's a bus stop that connects it to the seaside town of Whitby, which has an arcade and a castle. But for Clover Lane itself, even the nearest shop is a 30 mins walk away.
The closest thing to Clover House are the nearby woods, which Gemma forbids Morgan from going to (but that never seems to stop her). There are even rumors that it's haunted.
The author does a good job of making Clover Lane feel genuinely secluded, not just from the outside world but from itself. From Morgan constantly wandering around to get cell reception, it's also set in the winter, as there is always snow on the ground. It really adds to the atmosphere— a creeping dread.
🗣Narrator🗣: Loved the pacing Tamsin Kennarda and Annette Chown brought to the story. Even on 1.0 speed, the narration pace was good and didn't make me feel like I needed to speed it up. I loved their British accents and the voices for the different characters. They narrators really brought the story to life. Loved the audio format.
📖Story📖:
✉️ Anonymous Letters
🎭 Neighborhood Drama
🙊 Family Secrets
🆘️ Missing Child
This is my sixth book by this author and so far every one has been a hit.
The People Next Door is a gripping domestic thriller full of tension and mystery. Gemma, Ethan and their two children, Cora and Morgan, leave Bristol and return to Clover Lane after Gemma's aunt dies and she inherits the house. The prologue hooked me right away. It drops you into something compelling, leaving you with two questions. How did we get here and what happens next?
It's a quick read/listen that kept me interested the whole way through. I easily finished it in a day.
📙Cover📙: The audio cover is not one that would make me want to read the book based on the cover alone. If I hadn't already known of the author, I may have skipped over this one based on the cover alone. Thankfully I immediately recognized the author's name and read the description, which sounded so good. However, the book cover on Goodreads and Fable is different and much better! But it seems Amazon's book cover is the same as the audio one. I can only assume one must be a UK version and the other must be a US version. I prefer the version that shows the house and not the woman peering out of a door.
🙏Thank you, Netgalley, Carla Kovach and Bookouture Audio for the ALC.🙏
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🗓 PUB DATE: June 02, 2026
☘️Setting☘️:
❄️ Winter
🍀Clover Lane
🏡 Small Community
Clover Woods
🏚Abandoned Shack (The Den)
Clover Lane is in a small isolated countryside town. There's not much to do, though there's a bus stop that connects it to the seaside town of Whitby, which has an arcade and a castle. But for Clover Lane itself, even the nearest shop is a 30 mins walk away.
The closest thing to Clover House are the nearby woods, which Gemma forbids Morgan from going to (but that never seems to stop her). There are even rumors that it's haunted.
The author does a good job of making Clover Lane feel genuinely secluded, not just from the outside world but from itself. From Morgan constantly wandering around to get cell reception, it's also set in the winter, as there is always snow on the ground. It really adds to the atmosphere— a creeping dread.
🗣Narrator🗣: Loved the pacing Tamsin Kennarda and Annette Chown brought to the story. Even on 1.0 speed, the narration pace was good and didn't make me feel like I needed to speed it up. I loved their British accents and the voices for the different characters. They narrators really brought the story to life. Loved the audio format.
📖Story📖:
✉️ Anonymous Letters
🎭 Neighborhood Drama
🙊 Family Secrets
🆘️ Missing Child
This is my sixth book by this author and so far every one has been a hit.
The People Next Door is a gripping domestic thriller full of tension and mystery. Gemma, Ethan and their two children, Cora and Morgan, leave Bristol and return to Clover Lane after Gemma's aunt dies and she inherits the house. The prologue hooked me right away. It drops you into something compelling, leaving you with two questions. How did we get here and what happens next?
It's a quick read/listen that kept me interested the whole way through. I easily finished it in a day.
📙Cover📙: The audio cover is not one that would make me want to read the book based on the cover alone. If I hadn't already known of the author, I may have skipped over this one based on the cover alone. Thankfully I immediately recognized the author's name and read the description, which sounded so good. However, the book cover on Goodreads and Fable is different and much better! But it seems Amazon's book cover is the same as the audio one. I can only assume one must be a UK version and the other must be a US version. I prefer the version that shows the house and not the woman peering out of a door.
🙏Thank you, Netgalley, Carla Kovach and Bookouture Audio for the ALC.🙏
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
UPDATED 5/22/26: I originally read The People Next Door by Carla Kovach, but listening to the audiobook narrated by Tasmin Kennard and Annette Chown actually improved the experience for me and bumped this up to a solid 4 stars.
This story had all the elements that usually pull me into a thriller fast — a quiet neighborhood, buried secrets, anonymous letters, and that constant feeling that nobody around you can really be trusted. It’s one of those stories that becomes very easy to binge because every chapter leaves you wanting just one more.
What stood out most to me was the atmosphere. Carla Kovach really captured that uncomfortable small-community dynamic where everyone knows each other’s business, everyone is watching, and the past never fully stays buried. The anonymous letters added such a creepy layer to the story, and I found myself suspicious of almost everyone at some point.
The audiobook narration honestly elevated the tension for me. Having the dual POVs performed by different narrators helped separate the characters more clearly and made the paranoia and emotional tension feel stronger than when I originally read it. Tasmin Kennard and Annette Chown both did a great job keeping the pacing engaging and the suspense moving.
The pacing overall was probably the strongest part for me. It gets into the suspense quickly and keeps moving the entire time. While some of the twists still felt a little predictable, the audiobook format made the story much more immersive, and I ended up enjoying it more than I expected to.
Overall, this was a really entertaining domestic thriller filled with secrets, paranoia, neighborhood drama, and characters you never fully trust. If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with messy neighbors, hidden pasts, and constant suspicion, I’d definitely recommend giving the audiobook version a try.
Original Review:
The People Next Door had all the elements that usually pull me into a thriller fast — a quiet neighborhood, buried secrets, anonymous letters, and that constant feeling that nobody around you can really be trusted. It’s one of those books that’s very easy to binge because every chapter gives you just enough tension to keep turning the pages.
I really liked the atmosphere in this one. Carla Kovach captured that uncomfortable small-community feeling where everyone knows each other’s business, everyone is watching, and the past never really stays buried. The letters added a creepy layer to the story, and I kept second-guessing almost every character along the way.
The pacing was probably the strongest part for me. It gets into the suspense pretty quickly and keeps moving, which made this a really entertaining read. I also liked the dual POV between Gemma and Morgan because it gave the story more depth and let you see the neighborhood from different perspectives.
For me though, the twists didn’t fully have that jaw-dropping payoff I’m always hoping for in a psychological thriller. Some reveals felt a little predictable, and while I was invested the whole time, I never hit that “I cannot believe this just happened” moment that pushes a thriller into 5-star territory for me.
Overall, I’d rate this one 3.5 stars. It’s a solid, addictive domestic thriller with creepy neighborhood tension, secrets, paranoia, and enough suspense to keep me hooked from start to finish. If you like fast-paced thrillers where everyone seems suspicious and the past keeps creeping back in, this is definitely worth picking up.
(rounded to 4 stars)
This story had all the elements that usually pull me into a thriller fast — a quiet neighborhood, buried secrets, anonymous letters, and that constant feeling that nobody around you can really be trusted. It’s one of those stories that becomes very easy to binge because every chapter leaves you wanting just one more.
What stood out most to me was the atmosphere. Carla Kovach really captured that uncomfortable small-community dynamic where everyone knows each other’s business, everyone is watching, and the past never fully stays buried. The anonymous letters added such a creepy layer to the story, and I found myself suspicious of almost everyone at some point.
The audiobook narration honestly elevated the tension for me. Having the dual POVs performed by different narrators helped separate the characters more clearly and made the paranoia and emotional tension feel stronger than when I originally read it. Tasmin Kennard and Annette Chown both did a great job keeping the pacing engaging and the suspense moving.
The pacing overall was probably the strongest part for me. It gets into the suspense quickly and keeps moving the entire time. While some of the twists still felt a little predictable, the audiobook format made the story much more immersive, and I ended up enjoying it more than I expected to.
Overall, this was a really entertaining domestic thriller filled with secrets, paranoia, neighborhood drama, and characters you never fully trust. If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with messy neighbors, hidden pasts, and constant suspicion, I’d definitely recommend giving the audiobook version a try.
Original Review:
The People Next Door had all the elements that usually pull me into a thriller fast — a quiet neighborhood, buried secrets, anonymous letters, and that constant feeling that nobody around you can really be trusted. It’s one of those books that’s very easy to binge because every chapter gives you just enough tension to keep turning the pages.
I really liked the atmosphere in this one. Carla Kovach captured that uncomfortable small-community feeling where everyone knows each other’s business, everyone is watching, and the past never really stays buried. The letters added a creepy layer to the story, and I kept second-guessing almost every character along the way.
The pacing was probably the strongest part for me. It gets into the suspense pretty quickly and keeps moving, which made this a really entertaining read. I also liked the dual POV between Gemma and Morgan because it gave the story more depth and let you see the neighborhood from different perspectives.
For me though, the twists didn’t fully have that jaw-dropping payoff I’m always hoping for in a psychological thriller. Some reveals felt a little predictable, and while I was invested the whole time, I never hit that “I cannot believe this just happened” moment that pushes a thriller into 5-star territory for me.
Overall, I’d rate this one 3.5 stars. It’s a solid, addictive domestic thriller with creepy neighborhood tension, secrets, paranoia, and enough suspense to keep me hooked from start to finish. If you like fast-paced thrillers where everyone seems suspicious and the past keeps creeping back in, this is definitely worth picking up.
(rounded to 4 stars)
June 13, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Carla Kovach for providing me with both an ARC and ALC in exchange for an honest review.
The People Next Door hooked me immediately and kept me curious from the very beginning. Carla Kovach’s writing is easy to read, captivating, and made it simple to fly through chapters. While I wasn’t completely invested until around the halfway mark, the strong opening and intriguing mystery kept me turning the pages.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its characters. Morgan was easily my favorite. She was fiercely loyal, constantly looking out for her family, and willing to put herself at risk to help others. I also found myself emotionally invested in both Morgan and Harry and genuinely cared about what happened to them. The characters felt believable and realistic, which made the emotional moments hit harder. I especially found myself frustrated by the bullying elements of the story and felt deeply for the people affected by them.
The pacing was solid overall, though the middle section dragged a bit for me between roughly 25% and 60%. Once the story reached the final stretch, however, I couldn’t put it down. There were several shocking moments throughout the book that genuinely caught me off guard, and the revelations surrounding Aunt Dorette were clever, emotional, surprising, and satisfying all at once.
My biggest criticism is the identity of the culprit. While I didn’t correctly guess who it was, the motive felt fairly predictable once everything was revealed. My reaction was less “I never saw that coming” and more “That actually makes sense, I should have thought of that.” I also felt the culprit occupied an awkward space in the story where they were present enough that the reveal wasn’t entirely shocking, but not prominent enough for the reveal to feel truly impactful. I think having the character either more involved or less involved throughout the story would have strengthened the mystery.
Overall, this was an enjoyable thriller with believable characters, emotional stakes, and an ending that delivered several satisfying surprises. While it didn’t have me perched on the edge of my seat the entire time, it was a solid read that I would recommend to fans of Freida McFadden and readers looking for a fast-paced domestic thriller. I would definitely read another book by Carla Kovach.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Carla Kovach for providing me with both an ARC and ALC in exchange for an honest review.
The People Next Door hooked me immediately and kept me curious from the very beginning. Carla Kovach’s writing is easy to read, captivating, and made it simple to fly through chapters. While I wasn’t completely invested until around the halfway mark, the strong opening and intriguing mystery kept me turning the pages.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its characters. Morgan was easily my favorite. She was fiercely loyal, constantly looking out for her family, and willing to put herself at risk to help others. I also found myself emotionally invested in both Morgan and Harry and genuinely cared about what happened to them. The characters felt believable and realistic, which made the emotional moments hit harder. I especially found myself frustrated by the bullying elements of the story and felt deeply for the people affected by them.
The pacing was solid overall, though the middle section dragged a bit for me between roughly 25% and 60%. Once the story reached the final stretch, however, I couldn’t put it down. There were several shocking moments throughout the book that genuinely caught me off guard, and the revelations surrounding Aunt Dorette were clever, emotional, surprising, and satisfying all at once.
My biggest criticism is the identity of the culprit. While I didn’t correctly guess who it was, the motive felt fairly predictable once everything was revealed. My reaction was less “I never saw that coming” and more “That actually makes sense, I should have thought of that.” I also felt the culprit occupied an awkward space in the story where they were present enough that the reveal wasn’t entirely shocking, but not prominent enough for the reveal to feel truly impactful. I think having the character either more involved or less involved throughout the story would have strengthened the mystery.
Overall, this was an enjoyable thriller with believable characters, emotional stakes, and an ending that delivered several satisfying surprises. While it didn’t have me perched on the edge of my seat the entire time, it was a solid read that I would recommend to fans of Freida McFadden and readers looking for a fast-paced domestic thriller. I would definitely read another book by Carla Kovach.
May 30, 2026
The People Next Door has that delicious, creeping sense of dread that settles in slowly—like a shadow lengthening across a perfect summer lawn—until you realise you’ve been holding your breath for pages at a time. From the moment the narrator returns to Clover Lane, you can feel the tension humming beneath the surface. She tells herself it’s a fresh start, a chance to give her children the life they deserve, but the past clings to her like damp air from the woods she refuses to let her daughter near.
The early chapters have a lovely, deceptive warmth: neighbours arriving with welcome gifts, friendly smiles, coffee invitations, the kind of suburban charm that feels almost too polished. And then the first letter arrives. Dear Neighbour. I know who you are. I know what you did… It’s such a simple threat, but it cracks the veneer instantly.
What follows is a beautifully paced unraveling. The narrator’s unease sharpens into fear as more letters appear, each one tightening the noose. Curtains twitch. Conversations shift. Rumours spread like rot beneath floorboards. The street that once felt safe becomes a corridor of watching eyes and whispered judgments. The author captures that claustrophobic paranoia so well—the way a community can turn on you with a smile still fixed in place.
The emotional core of the story, though, is Morgan. The narrator’s fierce protectiveness, her guilt, her determination to keep her daughter away from the woods where her best friend vanished years ago—it all adds a raw, human ache to the tension. So when the final letter arrives and Morgan is missing, the bottom drops out of the story in the best possible way. Every fear the narrator has tried to outrun comes roaring back, and the book shifts into a breathless, heart‑pounding race against time.
This is a gripping, atmospheric psychological thriller—full of secrets, suspicion, and the kind of suburban menace that feels all too plausible. It plays beautifully with memory, guilt, and the danger of communities that look perfect from the outside. Fans of The Housemaid, The Perfect Marriage, and The Girl on the Train will feel right at home in its twisting, shadowed corridors.
With thanks to Carla Kovach, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The early chapters have a lovely, deceptive warmth: neighbours arriving with welcome gifts, friendly smiles, coffee invitations, the kind of suburban charm that feels almost too polished. And then the first letter arrives. Dear Neighbour. I know who you are. I know what you did… It’s such a simple threat, but it cracks the veneer instantly.
What follows is a beautifully paced unraveling. The narrator’s unease sharpens into fear as more letters appear, each one tightening the noose. Curtains twitch. Conversations shift. Rumours spread like rot beneath floorboards. The street that once felt safe becomes a corridor of watching eyes and whispered judgments. The author captures that claustrophobic paranoia so well—the way a community can turn on you with a smile still fixed in place.
The emotional core of the story, though, is Morgan. The narrator’s fierce protectiveness, her guilt, her determination to keep her daughter away from the woods where her best friend vanished years ago—it all adds a raw, human ache to the tension. So when the final letter arrives and Morgan is missing, the bottom drops out of the story in the best possible way. Every fear the narrator has tried to outrun comes roaring back, and the book shifts into a breathless, heart‑pounding race against time.
This is a gripping, atmospheric psychological thriller—full of secrets, suspicion, and the kind of suburban menace that feels all too plausible. It plays beautifully with memory, guilt, and the danger of communities that look perfect from the outside. Fans of The Housemaid, The Perfect Marriage, and The Girl on the Train will feel right at home in its twisting, shadowed corridors.
With thanks to Carla Kovach, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
June 10, 2026
The woods that surround Clover Lane are the place Gemma’s nightmare’s started. And after the terrible events one summer when she was a teenager, she vowed she’d never go back. But when her aunt dies and leaves them her house she doesn’t feel she has any other choice. So, Gemma returns to the picturesque street with her family, warning her teenage daughter to never go into the woods. But just as they are trying to settle in, the neighbours start receiving nasty notes and Gemma is the prime suspect. She finds herself looking over her shoulder, double-locking the door and second guessing everything. Including the one neighbour who is willing to give her a chance. And there is someone who thinks they know what happened that summer. And they will go to dangerous lengths to prove it…
Carla Kovach never disappoints. Heart-poundingly tense, twisty, mysterious and addictive, this riveting thriller had me on the edge-of-my seat from start to finish. Expertly written and cleverly choreographed, Carla held me in her thrall as she delivered shocking twists, clever red herrings and dark secrets. It is a book full of questions with multiple mysteries that run parallel to one another. And every time a question is answered or a mystery seems to be solved, more appear, keeping you guessing until the very last page. It is a clever and intricately woven web that Carla skillfully spins around her reader. And that explosive double bluff ending! What a finale! My heart raced and my jaw hit the floor as everything was finally revealed. I’m still not over it.
Carla is great at writing characters you aren’t sure if you can trust, and this book was filled with them. Every single one is flawed and unreliable, even protagonist Gemma. I was pulled into the crazy lives of the people on this street and while I didn’t think Gemma was behind the poisoned pen letters, I couldn’t figure out her secret and wanted answers about what really happened that summer. I also wanted the real author of the letters to be unmasked but loved how there were so many suspects. It was really hard to pinpoint just one person I thought was behind it all, and no-one was free of my suspicion.
A twist-filled rollercoaster ride that will keep you on your toes, this is a must for thriller lovers.
Carla Kovach never disappoints. Heart-poundingly tense, twisty, mysterious and addictive, this riveting thriller had me on the edge-of-my seat from start to finish. Expertly written and cleverly choreographed, Carla held me in her thrall as she delivered shocking twists, clever red herrings and dark secrets. It is a book full of questions with multiple mysteries that run parallel to one another. And every time a question is answered or a mystery seems to be solved, more appear, keeping you guessing until the very last page. It is a clever and intricately woven web that Carla skillfully spins around her reader. And that explosive double bluff ending! What a finale! My heart raced and my jaw hit the floor as everything was finally revealed. I’m still not over it.
Carla is great at writing characters you aren’t sure if you can trust, and this book was filled with them. Every single one is flawed and unreliable, even protagonist Gemma. I was pulled into the crazy lives of the people on this street and while I didn’t think Gemma was behind the poisoned pen letters, I couldn’t figure out her secret and wanted answers about what really happened that summer. I also wanted the real author of the letters to be unmasked but loved how there were so many suspects. It was really hard to pinpoint just one person I thought was behind it all, and no-one was free of my suspicion.
A twist-filled rollercoaster ride that will keep you on your toes, this is a must for thriller lovers.
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