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The Child Between Us
The Child Trilogy: BOOK 1 - The Child Between Us
She has five hours to make everything look normal.
When Will doesn’t come home, everyone assumes he’s missing.
Only his wife knows the truth.
He’s not missing.
He’s exactly where she left him.
Now, with her young daughter asking questions and the police beginning to circle, she must carefully construct the perfect version of events… the perfect lie.
Because the truth isn’t just dangerous.
It’s unthinkable.
But as cracks begin to form and the past refuses to stay buried, one thing becomes clear:
Some secrets don’t stay hidden.
And some mothers will do anything to protect what’s theirs.
THE CHILD BETWEEN US is a gripping psychological thriller packed with tension, obsession, and shocking twists — perfect for fans of Freida McFadden and Gillian Flynn.
You won’t see the ending coming.
⚠️ Content Warning: This book contains mature themes that some readers may find distressing⚠️
She has five hours to make everything look normal.
When Will doesn’t come home, everyone assumes he’s missing.
Only his wife knows the truth.
He’s not missing.
He’s exactly where she left him.
Now, with her young daughter asking questions and the police beginning to circle, she must carefully construct the perfect version of events… the perfect lie.
Because the truth isn’t just dangerous.
It’s unthinkable.
But as cracks begin to form and the past refuses to stay buried, one thing becomes clear:
Some secrets don’t stay hidden.
And some mothers will do anything to protect what’s theirs.
THE CHILD BETWEEN US is a gripping psychological thriller packed with tension, obsession, and shocking twists — perfect for fans of Freida McFadden and Gillian Flynn.
You won’t see the ending coming.
⚠️ Content Warning: This book contains mature themes that some readers may find distressing⚠️
440 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2026
About the author
Melissa Hawker
2 books11 followersMelissa Hawker is a psychological thriller author living in the heart of Mid Wales with her wife.
With a lifelong fascination for the human mind, she draws on both personal experience and her academic background, holding an honours degree in psychology. Her work is shaped by a deep understanding of mental health, trauma, and the fragile line between truth and perception.
Melissa writes stories where control is an illusion, secrets refuse to stay buried, and the truth is never what it seems. Her characters don’t just face danger; they live inside it.
Because sometimes the darkest places aren’t out there… they’re already inside us.
With a lifelong fascination for the human mind, she draws on both personal experience and her academic background, holding an honours degree in psychology. Her work is shaped by a deep understanding of mental health, trauma, and the fragile line between truth and perception.
Melissa writes stories where control is an illusion, secrets refuse to stay buried, and the truth is never what it seems. Her characters don’t just face danger; they live inside it.
Because sometimes the darkest places aren’t out there… they’re already inside us.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 12, 2026
This book throws you into a world of shattered trust and haunting lies.
It centres around a controlling and performative character, a young child, a husband that disappears and a story filled with trauma, unreliable appearances and secrets that don’t stay buried.
What I will say is this.
Don’t go into this book and expect to finish it with all your questions answered. This is Book 1 of a planned Trilogy called The Child Trilogy.
So.
We have two POV’s - The first 50% of the book being from HER pov and the second half being from HIS. We also get an epilogue from someone else entirely.
What I enjoyed about this story were the MC’s. We have someone who is highly calculated, image concious, unhinged and has a huge guard about them and then the other person well, i’ll let you read about them.
We get to explore both of these characters in a deeper sense and I feel like we get a great understanding of them and they’re well rounded thanks to Melissas writing.
I also enjoyed a couple of the side Characters, particularly ‘Etch’ and Rosanna.
What I loved most was the use of journal entries that end up revealing something you wouldn’t expect that is pivotal to the story. This was such a refreshing thing to see in a book.
It started off a little slow for the first handful of chapters whilst I got to grips with the story but soon after that I became invested.
FULLY INVESTED.
And I devoured every page racing to see what happens.
So i’m giving this 4.25 stars.
This isn’t your typical thriller, this isn’t even your typical psychological thriller.
This is a book that will have you questioning what is even happening, this will have you rooting for characters you didn’t want to root for and this will leave you needing more.
Well done on your debut, Melissa!
It centres around a controlling and performative character, a young child, a husband that disappears and a story filled with trauma, unreliable appearances and secrets that don’t stay buried.
What I will say is this.
Don’t go into this book and expect to finish it with all your questions answered. This is Book 1 of a planned Trilogy called The Child Trilogy.
So.
We have two POV’s - The first 50% of the book being from HER pov and the second half being from HIS. We also get an epilogue from someone else entirely.
What I enjoyed about this story were the MC’s. We have someone who is highly calculated, image concious, unhinged and has a huge guard about them and then the other person well, i’ll let you read about them.
We get to explore both of these characters in a deeper sense and I feel like we get a great understanding of them and they’re well rounded thanks to Melissas writing.
I also enjoyed a couple of the side Characters, particularly ‘Etch’ and Rosanna.
What I loved most was the use of journal entries that end up revealing something you wouldn’t expect that is pivotal to the story. This was such a refreshing thing to see in a book.
It started off a little slow for the first handful of chapters whilst I got to grips with the story but soon after that I became invested.
FULLY INVESTED.
And I devoured every page racing to see what happens.
So i’m giving this 4.25 stars.
This isn’t your typical thriller, this isn’t even your typical psychological thriller.
This is a book that will have you questioning what is even happening, this will have you rooting for characters you didn’t want to root for and this will leave you needing more.
Well done on your debut, Melissa!
July 8, 2026
I loved this book,loved how the text was set out on the page,it made it feel fast paced and a easy read,short chapters,great mid way twist,then a switch of POV which i loved,cant wait to read more from Melissa and find out where the next book takes us,as the ending wasnt conclusive.
August 24, 2026
I have questions! This is one of the most frustrating endings to a book ever because what do you mean my questions weren’t answered? Who the hell is this lady and what is wrong with her? Is anyone a “good” person in this book? (Probably not they’re all variations of messed up)
Excited to get into book 2 and have some of my questions answered and hopefully see the author take things even darker.
Excited to get into book 2 and have some of my questions answered and hopefully see the author take things even darker.
May 26, 2026
I was hooked within pages of this book. If it wasnt for half term I would of finished this within hours of starting it.
I wasnt sure where it was going and my guess turned out wrong 42% in. I have more questions than answers. I cant wait to read next book....
I wasnt sure where it was going and my guess turned out wrong 42% in. I have more questions than answers. I cant wait to read next book....
August 26, 2026
what a book!! This book truly had me in a chockhold. I just couldn't put it down. I feel like ive been on an emotional roller coaster with the characters especially Em and Harrisons characters. This is a fast paced, action packed story that is full of brilliant plot twits !! It has everything murder, love, betrayal, heartbreak, grief, suspence!! I can not wait for book 2 to come out I need to know how this tale unravelles ! I'm also over the moon to be on the authors ARC team! Strap in for book 2!
May 8, 2026
This psychological thriller is a complete page turner, it had me hooked from the beginning with its tense and secretive atmosphere.
The child between us had my mind reeling with so many questions and theories. I felt very conflicting emotions for the characters and can't wait to find out what happens next. You feel so much heartbreak and devastation, shock at what happened, but also somewhat root for characters that have done wrong.
Em is such an intriguing and calculated character and the use of the journal entries to unravel the story perfectly guides you to that moment of realisation.
I was so excited to read this book and it really didn't disappoint. The secrets, manipulation, acting, coverups, obsession mistaken for love and redemption for a character wrongfully convicted all keep you gripped and on the edge of your seat for what is coming next.
If you are looking for a book that will shock you, full of secrets and a main character that practices looking grief stricken in the mirror then the child between us is definitely for you
The child between us had my mind reeling with so many questions and theories. I felt very conflicting emotions for the characters and can't wait to find out what happens next. You feel so much heartbreak and devastation, shock at what happened, but also somewhat root for characters that have done wrong.
Em is such an intriguing and calculated character and the use of the journal entries to unravel the story perfectly guides you to that moment of realisation.
I was so excited to read this book and it really didn't disappoint. The secrets, manipulation, acting, coverups, obsession mistaken for love and redemption for a character wrongfully convicted all keep you gripped and on the edge of your seat for what is coming next.
If you are looking for a book that will shock you, full of secrets and a main character that practices looking grief stricken in the mirror then the child between us is definitely for you
May 17, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive the PR box for this book from the author, and I have to say, the PR box itself was absolutely incredible!
Going into this book, I’ll be honest… I was a little dubious at first. The writing style was so different from what I’m usually drawn to, and it took me a couple of chapters to really settle into it. But as any true book lover knows, you have to give a story a fair chance. And WOW am I glad I did.
What started as a slow burn quickly turned into something completely addictive. I became so invested in Em & Flick’s cozy little “safe” life… and then BOOM! THAT twist. I was absolutely not prepared for it. Suddenly every tiny detail clicked perfectly into place, and from that moment on there was no chance I was putting this book down until every last piece unraveled.
The dual structure of the story , told in two parts, Her POV and then His, was honestly genius. It added so much depth and tension, and made the reveal hit even harder. Top-tier storytelling.
Needless to say, I am now VERY excited for Book 2 of this trilogy!
Going into this book, I’ll be honest… I was a little dubious at first. The writing style was so different from what I’m usually drawn to, and it took me a couple of chapters to really settle into it. But as any true book lover knows, you have to give a story a fair chance. And WOW am I glad I did.
What started as a slow burn quickly turned into something completely addictive. I became so invested in Em & Flick’s cozy little “safe” life… and then BOOM! THAT twist. I was absolutely not prepared for it. Suddenly every tiny detail clicked perfectly into place, and from that moment on there was no chance I was putting this book down until every last piece unraveled.
The dual structure of the story , told in two parts, Her POV and then His, was honestly genius. It added so much depth and tension, and made the reveal hit even harder. Top-tier storytelling.
Needless to say, I am now VERY excited for Book 2 of this trilogy!
May 13, 2026
Absolutely Fantastic—A Masterclass in Dual Perspectives!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
I just finished The Child Between Us and I am still reeling. This book was absolutely fantastic from start to finish.
What stood out to me most was the dual-perspective storytelling. Melissa Hawker did a brilliant job of balancing the two viewpoints, which kept the narrative moving at a great pace and kept me completely engaged in the outcome. It added so much depth to the story to see the situation from both sides.
It’s a gripping, emotional, and beautifully written book that I couldn't stop reading. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a story that pulls at your heartstrings while keeping you on the edge of your seat!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5
I just finished The Child Between Us and I am still reeling. This book was absolutely fantastic from start to finish.
What stood out to me most was the dual-perspective storytelling. Melissa Hawker did a brilliant job of balancing the two viewpoints, which kept the narrative moving at a great pace and kept me completely engaged in the outcome. It added so much depth to the story to see the situation from both sides.
It’s a gripping, emotional, and beautifully written book that I couldn't stop reading. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a story that pulls at your heartstrings while keeping you on the edge of your seat!
May 18, 2026
Well I'm going to start by saying this..... My thoughts at the beginning of this book, we're completely changed by the end. The author cleverly took everything I was thinking, gave it a good shake, and threw it back. I didn't know who I could trust in the end.
This book is split into two. The first half was from FMC POV, and the second half from MMC POV. Each had their own secrets and imperfections. One character was seriously unhinged, and the other controlling
In the middle of all this is a young child, Flick. Oblivious to everything that surrounds her daily life.
I was completely invested in this book from the start, a easy, quick page turner. Great character building and a twist in the middle I didn't see coming.
I give this book 4.5 ⭐
This book is split into two. The first half was from FMC POV, and the second half from MMC POV. Each had their own secrets and imperfections. One character was seriously unhinged, and the other controlling
In the middle of all this is a young child, Flick. Oblivious to everything that surrounds her daily life.
I was completely invested in this book from the start, a easy, quick page turner. Great character building and a twist in the middle I didn't see coming.
I give this book 4.5 ⭐
July 11, 2026
A really good phycological thriller that leaves you with more questions than answers by the end of it. I finished this book in a day as I was genuinely hooked from the start - to book is split into two. ‘Her’ pov and ‘his’ pov. I personally found his pov more interesting and captivating than hers until towards the end which twists everything you thought you knew and spins you round.
I loved the side characters, particularly etch.
Very intrigued to see where the next book is going to go and I find out if the fmc does get her comeuppance.
I loved the side characters, particularly etch.
Very intrigued to see where the next book is going to go and I find out if the fmc does get her comeuppance.
June 8, 2026
I do not normally read phycological thrillers butttttt I was able to get the ARC of this and loved every minute. This book really took me on a ride. The only issue I have with this book is that I have to wait for the second one😭. I really enjoyed the split POV in the book, seeing the different perspectives definitely added to the storyline.
June 13, 2026
Melissa has such a captivating, unique writing style that fit the story perfectly. It drew me in and didn’t let go until the very end of the book. Now i need to know more!!
The story got straight to it, kept me on my toes the whole way. You don’t know who to trust and twists keep twisting! So excited for book 2😱
The story got straight to it, kept me on my toes the whole way. You don’t know who to trust and twists keep twisting! So excited for book 2😱
June 13, 2026
Wow! This book is cleverly written.
It contains some hard hitting topics.
Domestic violence, wrongful conviction, kidnap, m**der to name a few.
The writer has a very clever way of switching up your opinions on the main characters and leaves you wanting more. I am in desperate need to know what happens next.
It contains some hard hitting topics.
Domestic violence, wrongful conviction, kidnap, m**der to name a few.
The writer has a very clever way of switching up your opinions on the main characters and leaves you wanting more. I am in desperate need to know what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book. The plot and the twists were just phenomenal! If you're a Freida McFadden fan, this one is for you
June 23, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I was given this book as an ARC and unfortunately only just got around to reading it due to prior commitments.
That was some very clever writing, I thought I had the plot worked out but was almost angry at myself when I got it wrong. I didn't realise it was a part of a series as the ending cliffhanger frustrated me initially. I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the series.
I am giving this a 4.5. The reason for the reduction is some times I felt the story was a little slow at the beginning however once your in it... it is fast.
That was some very clever writing, I thought I had the plot worked out but was almost angry at myself when I got it wrong. I didn't realise it was a part of a series as the ending cliffhanger frustrated me initially. I can't wait to see what is in store for the rest of the series.
I am giving this a 4.5. The reason for the reduction is some times I felt the story was a little slow at the beginning however once your in it... it is fast.
April 8, 2026
This psychological thriller set in the UK is an absolute page turner from start to finish. The story is gripping, with a dark and tense atmosphere that keeps you hooked throughout. What really stood out to me was the twist it completely caught me off guard and added a whole new layer to the story.
Em is by far my favourite character. She’s complex, intriguing, and brings so much depth to the narrative. I found myself especially invested in her journey and couldn’t wait to see how everything would unfold around her.
Overall, this is a really good read that I’d highly recommend to fans of psychological thrillers. I’m already looking forward to the second book because I need to know what happens next!
Em is by far my favourite character. She’s complex, intriguing, and brings so much depth to the narrative. I found myself especially invested in her journey and couldn’t wait to see how everything would unfold around her.
Overall, this is a really good read that I’d highly recommend to fans of psychological thrillers. I’m already looking forward to the second book because I need to know what happens next!
August 11, 2026
Overall 4.25 stars!
I won this book in a PR box giveaway but my thoughts on this book is my own and genuine!
This book is a psychological thriller based on our two main characters Em and Harrison and the child that is inevitably between them. The book is cleverly written and divided midway - one half from Em’s POV and the other half from Harrison’s POV and the book ends beautifully on a cliffhanger!
I genuinely enjoyed this book and the book kept me so intrigued that I finished the book within 24hours! It definitely is one of my favourite and memorable reads of this year!
Although this is a psychological thriller it is written very well that it also does read like a literary thriller in the sense that you get to understand and explore each character and their development very well within their POV’s. I have yet to read a thriller that has been written like this and I look forward to reading more of this authors work.
Overall, if you enjoy a psychological thriller that makes you question each character and you’re unable to tell if a character has taken a good decision or a bad decision if you should vote for them, if it makes you question your own morals you will enjoy this book.
I won this book in a PR box giveaway but my thoughts on this book is my own and genuine!
This book is a psychological thriller based on our two main characters Em and Harrison and the child that is inevitably between them. The book is cleverly written and divided midway - one half from Em’s POV and the other half from Harrison’s POV and the book ends beautifully on a cliffhanger!
I genuinely enjoyed this book and the book kept me so intrigued that I finished the book within 24hours! It definitely is one of my favourite and memorable reads of this year!
Although this is a psychological thriller it is written very well that it also does read like a literary thriller in the sense that you get to understand and explore each character and their development very well within their POV’s. I have yet to read a thriller that has been written like this and I look forward to reading more of this authors work.
Overall, if you enjoy a psychological thriller that makes you question each character and you’re unable to tell if a character has taken a good decision or a bad decision if you should vote for them, if it makes you question your own morals you will enjoy this book.
August 20, 2026
This dark, psychological thriller pulls you in from the very start.
At the centre of the story is a woman who is calm, calculated, and always one step ahead. She knows exactly what she has to say and do. Her husband is missing but she holds the truth about his disappearance. As her daughter begins asking difficult questions and the police start to close in, she delivers a performance convincing enough to fool everyone.
But is everything really as it seems? Are the secrets of the past safely buried, or are the cracks beginning to show?
I was hooked from chapter one. This book quickly became impossible to put down. The characters are interesting and well written. I felt deep empathy for certain characters and real anger toward others and just when I thought I had it all figured out, the story made me question everything I’d read and I found myself rereading parts just to make sure I read them correctly the first time.
A gripping thriller which I highly recommend. I can't wait for book two.
At the centre of the story is a woman who is calm, calculated, and always one step ahead. She knows exactly what she has to say and do. Her husband is missing but she holds the truth about his disappearance. As her daughter begins asking difficult questions and the police start to close in, she delivers a performance convincing enough to fool everyone.
But is everything really as it seems? Are the secrets of the past safely buried, or are the cracks beginning to show?
I was hooked from chapter one. This book quickly became impossible to put down. The characters are interesting and well written. I felt deep empathy for certain characters and real anger toward others and just when I thought I had it all figured out, the story made me question everything I’d read and I found myself rereading parts just to make sure I read them correctly the first time.
A gripping thriller which I highly recommend. I can't wait for book two.
August 19, 2026
The Child Between Us is a psychological thriller told from two points of view, HERS (Em) and HIS (Harrison) with the story focusing on the child (Flick)
Melissa has a very individual writing style that I actually really enjoyed, the book is in short bursts of sentences almost like unfiltered thoughts hitting the page. It's new to me but it was really effective in adding to the suspense and tension of the book, this style made it a easy to read yet still gripping while getting straight to the point.
I thought I had this book all figured out I knew what was coming, what the twist was.... WRONG the twist caught me completely off guard!!
Overall I really enjoyed this and was itching to get my hands on book two!
Melissa has a very individual writing style that I actually really enjoyed, the book is in short bursts of sentences almost like unfiltered thoughts hitting the page. It's new to me but it was really effective in adding to the suspense and tension of the book, this style made it a easy to read yet still gripping while getting straight to the point.
I thought I had this book all figured out I knew what was coming, what the twist was.... WRONG the twist caught me completely off guard!!
Overall I really enjoyed this and was itching to get my hands on book two!
May 8, 2026
This psychological thriller set in the UK is an absolute page turner from start to finish. The story is gripping, with a dark and tense atmosphere that keeps you hooked throughout. What really stood out to me was the twist it completely caught me off guard and added a whole new layer to the story.
Em is by far my favourite character. She’s complex, intriguing, and brings so much depth to the narrative. I found myself especially invested in her journey and couldn’t wait to see how everything would unfold around her.
Overall, this is a really good read that I’d highly recommend to fans of psychological thrillers. I’m already looking forward to the second book because I need to know what happens next!
Em is by far my favourite character. She’s complex, intriguing, and brings so much depth to the narrative. I found myself especially invested in her journey and couldn’t wait to see how everything would unfold around her.
Overall, this is a really good read that I’d highly recommend to fans of psychological thrillers. I’m already looking forward to the second book because I need to know what happens next!
May 8, 2026
Very fast paced I enjoyed it a lot just wish it had more of the story provided at the end hope there is another book. The characters are strong and so is the story. Some of it felt a bit rushed however didn't effect the overall read. The author holds much promise.
Also Etch well that was so sad wasn't expecting that. Thought Em and Lilah were the same person? did not see that dramatic twist
Also Etch well that was so sad wasn't expecting that. Thought Em and Lilah were the same person? did not see that dramatic twist
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2026
An amazing book, full of suspense.
Who do you trust and who should you trust?
Can't wait to read the next book.
This was an ARC.
Who do you trust and who should you trust?
Can't wait to read the next book.
This was an ARC.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews