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Silent Night
304 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2026
About the author
Natasha Boydell
15 books339 followersNatasha is an internationally bestselling author of psychological thrillers. Her books have featured in the top 100 charts in the UK, Canada and Australia, and include the top 10 bestseller The Fortune Teller.
Natasha's novels are available around the world in ebook, paperback and audiobook and have been translated into several languages. She lives in North London with her husband, two daughters and two rescue cats.
Natasha's novels are available around the world in ebook, paperback and audiobook and have been translated into several languages. She lives in North London with her husband, two daughters and two rescue cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 12, 2026
➡️ "If you don't have anything nice to say, be silent."
That said, I will be silent about "Silent Night".
➡️ "Silent Night" began with a solid hook.
A daughter starts out searching for her missing mother in a snowy village. What happened to her mother?
Unfortunately, the book quickly stalled. The narrative spun its wheels for hours with repetitive text and recycled character doubts. When the "twists" arrived, they lacked impact.
➡️ I listened to the audiobook expertly narrated by Antonia Beamish.
Antonia Beamish’s narration was brilliant as always, but no narrator can fix a story that takes 9 hours to deliver 4 hours' worth of plot.
➡️ Natasha Boydell wowed me with "The Last Witness."
Even talented authors rarely bat 1000%.
August 10, 2026
It's never too early to dive into a Christmas mystery, even if it's a sweltering 100 degrees outside on a sunny Texas day!
The story follows Ava Carter, who receives a puzzling letter from her estranged mother. Curiosity might be said to kill the cat, but it drives Ava to make an unexpected journey home for the holidays to unravel the mystery behind her mother's worrying message. Upon arriving at her mother's cottage in the Cotswolds, she finds it dark and empty, which only heightens her suspicions. While the villagers assume her mother is on holiday, Ava discovers that her mother has been looking into a historic disappearance in the area. To complicate matters further, Ava learns that her sister Megan has no clue about their mother's whereabouts. As the story unfolds, tension rises, and it becomes increasingly difficult to figure out what happened to her mom. Who’s responsible? Why does the police department insist her mother is simply away on holiday?
This tale takes on a deeper emotional weight, especially with the family dynamics at play and the underlying darkness. It turns out that each character harbors significant secrets, and the truth only emerges in a dramatic revelation at the end. The conclusion is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, prompting me to wonder what I would do if I were in Ava's shoes. Her world unravels as she uncovers more about the mystery surrounding her mother, and I couldn't help but be drawn into the complicated relationship with her sister. The path to reconciliation between them looks like it will be a long and challenging one.
If you enjoy dark, emotional mysteries about buried family secrets that take time to come to light, stories woven with themes of loyalty and the bittersweet nature of coming home, this book is for you. Although the pacing starts a bit slow and suspenseful, it accelerates beautifully, tying everything together at the end. There are unexpected twists and turns, and while the conclusion is heartbreaking, it feels satisfying because the story allows the characters the time they need to process their experiences. I truly felt the sadness, dread, and worry that Ava faced regarding her mother. While I'm glad that the current situation brought them all back together, it seems healing will take considerable time. This story is more emotional than what I'm used to from Natasha, and it’s expertly crafted. I found myself unable to step away, just in case Ava needed my help! Ha!
Thank you, Boldwood Books and NetGalley, for the widget DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story follows Ava Carter, who receives a puzzling letter from her estranged mother. Curiosity might be said to kill the cat, but it drives Ava to make an unexpected journey home for the holidays to unravel the mystery behind her mother's worrying message. Upon arriving at her mother's cottage in the Cotswolds, she finds it dark and empty, which only heightens her suspicions. While the villagers assume her mother is on holiday, Ava discovers that her mother has been looking into a historic disappearance in the area. To complicate matters further, Ava learns that her sister Megan has no clue about their mother's whereabouts. As the story unfolds, tension rises, and it becomes increasingly difficult to figure out what happened to her mom. Who’s responsible? Why does the police department insist her mother is simply away on holiday?
This tale takes on a deeper emotional weight, especially with the family dynamics at play and the underlying darkness. It turns out that each character harbors significant secrets, and the truth only emerges in a dramatic revelation at the end. The conclusion is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, prompting me to wonder what I would do if I were in Ava's shoes. Her world unravels as she uncovers more about the mystery surrounding her mother, and I couldn't help but be drawn into the complicated relationship with her sister. The path to reconciliation between them looks like it will be a long and challenging one.
If you enjoy dark, emotional mysteries about buried family secrets that take time to come to light, stories woven with themes of loyalty and the bittersweet nature of coming home, this book is for you. Although the pacing starts a bit slow and suspenseful, it accelerates beautifully, tying everything together at the end. There are unexpected twists and turns, and while the conclusion is heartbreaking, it feels satisfying because the story allows the characters the time they need to process their experiences. I truly felt the sadness, dread, and worry that Ava faced regarding her mother. While I'm glad that the current situation brought them all back together, it seems healing will take considerable time. This story is more emotional than what I'm used to from Natasha, and it’s expertly crafted. I found myself unable to step away, just in case Ava needed my help! Ha!
Thank you, Boldwood Books and NetGalley, for the widget DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2026
A chilling festive thriller that proves Christmas can be just as deadly as it is magical. ❄️🔪
From the very first page, this story pulled me into its snow-covered Cotswolds setting, where the idyllic village hides dark secrets beneath its picture-perfect charm. The mystery surrounding Ava’s missing mother kept me hooked, with every chapter adding another twist that made it impossible to put down.
The atmospheric winter setting is wonderfully eerie, creating the perfect backdrop for a suspense-filled mystery. Just when I thought I’d worked out what was happening, another revelation completely changed everything. The pacing is excellent, building tension right through to a satisfying and surprising finale.
If you love isolated village settings, family secrets, shocking twists, and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this is one to add to your winter reading list.
Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Clare Mackintosh, and Daniel Hurst. 🔪🎁❄️
From the very first page, this story pulled me into its snow-covered Cotswolds setting, where the idyllic village hides dark secrets beneath its picture-perfect charm. The mystery surrounding Ava’s missing mother kept me hooked, with every chapter adding another twist that made it impossible to put down.
The atmospheric winter setting is wonderfully eerie, creating the perfect backdrop for a suspense-filled mystery. Just when I thought I’d worked out what was happening, another revelation completely changed everything. The pacing is excellent, building tension right through to a satisfying and surprising finale.
If you love isolated village settings, family secrets, shocking twists, and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this is one to add to your winter reading list.
Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Clare Mackintosh, and Daniel Hurst. 🔪🎁❄️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of *Silent Night* before publication. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
*Silent Night* is an atmospheric psychological thriller that takes the comforting image of a snowy Christmas in the Cotswolds and transforms it into something tense, secretive and increasingly dangerous. The story follows Ava, who has not spent Christmas with her mother for several years. Their relationship has become strained, but a worrying letter persuades Ava that perhaps it is finally time to put the past behind them.
Ava decides to visit without warning, believing that her arrival will be a welcome Christmas surprise. However, when she reaches her mother’s picture-perfect cottage, the house is dark and her mother is nowhere to be found. What should have been an emotional reunion instead becomes the beginning of a disturbing mystery.
The festive setting is one of the strongest aspects of the novel. The snow-covered village, charming cottages and Christmas decorations initially create an almost idyllic atmosphere. That sense of warmth quickly disappears once Ava realises something is wrong. The contrast between the beautiful surroundings and the growing threat gives the story an effective feeling of unease.
There is something particularly unsettling about arriving at the home of someone you know well and immediately sensing that the place is not as it should be. The absence of lights, the silence inside the cottage and the lack of any clear explanation for Ava’s mother’s disappearance create tension without the need for immediate action. Natasha Boydell allows the uncertainty to build gradually as Ava searches for answers.
Ava’s complicated relationship with her mother gives the mystery an emotional foundation. She is not simply looking for a missing person; she is searching for someone from whom she has been emotionally distant. Their estrangement means Ava does not fully understand her mother’s recent life, her relationships or what may have frightened her enough to send the letter.
This lack of knowledge places Ava at a disadvantage. She arrives believing that she understands the history between them, but she soon has to consider how much of her mother’s life has remained hidden from her. The disappearance forces her to confront unresolved resentment while also questioning whether she ignored warning signs because of their damaged relationship.
The village setting adds another layer of suspicion. Small communities are often presented as welcoming places where everyone knows one another, but that familiarity can also create secrecy. The people Ava encounters appear to have their own opinions about her mother and may know more than they initially admit. It becomes difficult for Ava to distinguish genuine concern from curiosity, hostility or deliberate deception.
I enjoyed the way the novel uses the Christmas period to heighten Ava’s isolation. Everyone else appears to be preparing for celebrations, family gatherings and familiar traditions while she is trying to discover what has happened to her mother. The festive atmosphere continues around her even as her own situation becomes increasingly frightening.
The story develops through suspicious behaviour, unanswered questions and discoveries about the past. Ava begins to realise that the letter may have contained more than a simple attempt at reconciliation. Her mother may have been trying to warn her, ask for help or draw her attention to something she was afraid to explain directly.
The mystery is built around the question of why Ava’s mother disappeared and whether she left voluntarily. The absence of an immediate answer allows several possibilities to emerge. She may have been escaping someone, protecting a secret or placed in danger by a person she trusted. Each new piece of information changes Ava’s understanding of her mother and of the events leading up to Christmas.
Ava is a believable protagonist because her investigation is driven by a mixture of concern, guilt and determination. She has to live with the possibility that she waited too long to respond to her mother’s attempt to reconnect. That emotional pressure explains why she continues asking questions even when it becomes clear that doing so may place her at risk.
The pacing is steady, with the opening chapters focusing on atmosphere and uncertainty before the danger becomes more immediate. Readers looking for constant action may find the early part slightly slow, but the gradual development suits the isolated winter setting. The shorter chapters and continuing questions make the story easy to keep reading.
The book contains several secrets and changes of direction, although some aspects follow familiar psychological-thriller patterns. Suspicious villagers, an estranged family relationship and a disappearance in an apparently peaceful location are all recognisable elements of the genre. However, the Christmas setting gives the story its own atmosphere and makes the danger feel particularly unsettling.
Some of Ava’s decisions can be frustrating, especially when she continues investigating without always taking sensible precautions. There are also moments when more direct communication might have prevented misunderstandings or provided answers sooner. However, her behaviour is partly understandable given the urgency of finding her mother and the guilt surrounding their relationship.
The emotional side of the story works best when Ava is forced to reconsider her memories of the past. Estrangement often allows resentment to harden because each person is left with only their own version of events. As Ava learns more, she has to question whether she ever fully understood her mother’s choices or the reasons their relationship broke down.
I would have liked some of the secondary characters and their connections to Ava’s mother to be developed in greater depth. Several people create suspicion, but not all of them feel equally memorable. Greater development might have made some of the later revelations carry more emotional impact.
The final part becomes faster and more dramatic as Ava moves closer to the truth. The various secrets surrounding her mother, the letter and the village begin to connect, leading to a tense confrontation. Although some elements required suspension of disbelief and I anticipated parts of the explanation, there were still enough questions to keep me interested until the end.
Overall, *Silent Night* is an enjoyable and atmospheric psychological thriller that combines a missing-person mystery with family estrangement and a deceptively beautiful Christmas setting. Its strongest features are the contrast between festive comfort and hidden danger, the unsettling opening at the empty cottage and the emotional uncertainty surrounding Ava’s relationship with her mother.
The story uses several familiar thriller conventions, and some character decisions and later developments were not entirely convincing. Nevertheless, it remained an engaging and suspenseful seasonal read with enough secrets and tension to hold my attention.
This will appeal to readers who enjoy missing-person mysteries, troubled mother-daughter relationships, secretive villages and psychological thrillers set against a snowy Christmas backdrop.
*Silent Night* is an atmospheric psychological thriller that takes the comforting image of a snowy Christmas in the Cotswolds and transforms it into something tense, secretive and increasingly dangerous. The story follows Ava, who has not spent Christmas with her mother for several years. Their relationship has become strained, but a worrying letter persuades Ava that perhaps it is finally time to put the past behind them.
Ava decides to visit without warning, believing that her arrival will be a welcome Christmas surprise. However, when she reaches her mother’s picture-perfect cottage, the house is dark and her mother is nowhere to be found. What should have been an emotional reunion instead becomes the beginning of a disturbing mystery.
The festive setting is one of the strongest aspects of the novel. The snow-covered village, charming cottages and Christmas decorations initially create an almost idyllic atmosphere. That sense of warmth quickly disappears once Ava realises something is wrong. The contrast between the beautiful surroundings and the growing threat gives the story an effective feeling of unease.
There is something particularly unsettling about arriving at the home of someone you know well and immediately sensing that the place is not as it should be. The absence of lights, the silence inside the cottage and the lack of any clear explanation for Ava’s mother’s disappearance create tension without the need for immediate action. Natasha Boydell allows the uncertainty to build gradually as Ava searches for answers.
Ava’s complicated relationship with her mother gives the mystery an emotional foundation. She is not simply looking for a missing person; she is searching for someone from whom she has been emotionally distant. Their estrangement means Ava does not fully understand her mother’s recent life, her relationships or what may have frightened her enough to send the letter.
This lack of knowledge places Ava at a disadvantage. She arrives believing that she understands the history between them, but she soon has to consider how much of her mother’s life has remained hidden from her. The disappearance forces her to confront unresolved resentment while also questioning whether she ignored warning signs because of their damaged relationship.
The village setting adds another layer of suspicion. Small communities are often presented as welcoming places where everyone knows one another, but that familiarity can also create secrecy. The people Ava encounters appear to have their own opinions about her mother and may know more than they initially admit. It becomes difficult for Ava to distinguish genuine concern from curiosity, hostility or deliberate deception.
I enjoyed the way the novel uses the Christmas period to heighten Ava’s isolation. Everyone else appears to be preparing for celebrations, family gatherings and familiar traditions while she is trying to discover what has happened to her mother. The festive atmosphere continues around her even as her own situation becomes increasingly frightening.
The story develops through suspicious behaviour, unanswered questions and discoveries about the past. Ava begins to realise that the letter may have contained more than a simple attempt at reconciliation. Her mother may have been trying to warn her, ask for help or draw her attention to something she was afraid to explain directly.
The mystery is built around the question of why Ava’s mother disappeared and whether she left voluntarily. The absence of an immediate answer allows several possibilities to emerge. She may have been escaping someone, protecting a secret or placed in danger by a person she trusted. Each new piece of information changes Ava’s understanding of her mother and of the events leading up to Christmas.
Ava is a believable protagonist because her investigation is driven by a mixture of concern, guilt and determination. She has to live with the possibility that she waited too long to respond to her mother’s attempt to reconnect. That emotional pressure explains why she continues asking questions even when it becomes clear that doing so may place her at risk.
The pacing is steady, with the opening chapters focusing on atmosphere and uncertainty before the danger becomes more immediate. Readers looking for constant action may find the early part slightly slow, but the gradual development suits the isolated winter setting. The shorter chapters and continuing questions make the story easy to keep reading.
The book contains several secrets and changes of direction, although some aspects follow familiar psychological-thriller patterns. Suspicious villagers, an estranged family relationship and a disappearance in an apparently peaceful location are all recognisable elements of the genre. However, the Christmas setting gives the story its own atmosphere and makes the danger feel particularly unsettling.
Some of Ava’s decisions can be frustrating, especially when she continues investigating without always taking sensible precautions. There are also moments when more direct communication might have prevented misunderstandings or provided answers sooner. However, her behaviour is partly understandable given the urgency of finding her mother and the guilt surrounding their relationship.
The emotional side of the story works best when Ava is forced to reconsider her memories of the past. Estrangement often allows resentment to harden because each person is left with only their own version of events. As Ava learns more, she has to question whether she ever fully understood her mother’s choices or the reasons their relationship broke down.
I would have liked some of the secondary characters and their connections to Ava’s mother to be developed in greater depth. Several people create suspicion, but not all of them feel equally memorable. Greater development might have made some of the later revelations carry more emotional impact.
The final part becomes faster and more dramatic as Ava moves closer to the truth. The various secrets surrounding her mother, the letter and the village begin to connect, leading to a tense confrontation. Although some elements required suspension of disbelief and I anticipated parts of the explanation, there were still enough questions to keep me interested until the end.
Overall, *Silent Night* is an enjoyable and atmospheric psychological thriller that combines a missing-person mystery with family estrangement and a deceptively beautiful Christmas setting. Its strongest features are the contrast between festive comfort and hidden danger, the unsettling opening at the empty cottage and the emotional uncertainty surrounding Ava’s relationship with her mother.
The story uses several familiar thriller conventions, and some character decisions and later developments were not entirely convincing. Nevertheless, it remained an engaging and suspenseful seasonal read with enough secrets and tension to hold my attention.
This will appeal to readers who enjoy missing-person mysteries, troubled mother-daughter relationships, secretive villages and psychological thrillers set against a snowy Christmas backdrop.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Silent Night by Natasha Boydell was one of those books that I could not seem to put down, and I flew through it far faster than I expected to. I am not entirely sure why it worked so well for me, because the first half contains several things that would usually test my patience. Ava spends a lot of time becoming increasingly frightened by relatively small incidents; she is somewhere with barely any phone signal, and there is a huge amount of emphasis placed on the snow closing in around her. Normally, I would be rolling my eyes at all three of those things, particularly when a character becomes isolated and cannot simply call someone for help, yet somehow none of it bothered me here.
This was very much a chewing-gum-for-the-brain sort of read, and I mean that in the best possible way. It was easy to get into, effortless to keep reading, and entertaining enough that I was happy to accept some of the more questionable moments without overthinking them. Sometimes, I just want a book that pulls me along, keeps me occupied, and gives me something to speculate about, and this did exactly that.
The mystery had me suspicious of absolutely everyone. Every time I thought I had settled on one explanation, something else would happen that made me reconsider it. I never felt completely sure who Ava could trust, what was genuinely threatening her, or whether some of the strange behaviour around her had a perfectly innocent explanation. That constant uncertainty kept the story moving, even during the quieter sections when Ava was mostly wandering around the village, worrying about the weather, or questioning what she had seen and heard.
The ending genuinely shocked me. There is a very big twist, and I did not see it coming at all. I had been looking in so many different directions that the actual reveal completely blindsided me, which is always a lovely feeling in a thriller. It is difficult to surprise me without making the twist feel as though it has been dragged in from nowhere, but this one certainly managed to catch me off guard.
That being said, the final section did become rather overcrowded. We do receive answers to almost everything, which I appreciated, but it felt as though too many revelations were packed into a relatively small number of pages. There was one particular aspect that I am not convinced the story needed, as it complicated matters without necessarily strengthening the conclusion. By the time everything had been explained, the plot had gone from intriguing to slightly overstuffed, and I think a more streamlined ending may have had more impact.
Some of the characters’ actions also stretched believability. Ava’s mum's behaviour seemed increasingly strange, and Megan’s decisions did not always feel natural either. Their motivations are eventually explained, but knowing the reasons behind their behaviour did not make every action entirely convincing. At times, it felt as though people were behaving oddly because the plot needed Ava to remain confused, rather than because their choices made complete sense.
I was also left questioning the way some of the villagers treated Ava. She openly introduced herself as Christina’s daughter, so their reactions towards her did not fully add up once the truth had been revealed. I could understand a certain amount of secrecy or awkwardness, but some of their behaviour seemed designed purely to make the village feel sinister. It created a good atmosphere while I was reading, although, looking back, parts of it do not stand up particularly well.
Despite all of that, I gave the book a pass for its flaws because I had such a good time reading it. It was quick, addictive, and exactly the kind of thriller that is easy to lose yourself in for a few hours. I never felt bored; I wanted to know what was going on, and I remained curious right up until the final pages. Sometimes, enjoyment matters more than whether every detail can survive close inspection.
There was also something strangely appealing about reading a book set during a blizzard at Christmas while sitting through a July heatwave. The freezing village, deep snow, and increasingly claustrophobic atmosphere provided a very welcome escape from the actual weather outside. It may not have been the most believable thriller I have ever read, and the ending could have done with being slightly less complicated. However, Silent Night was still an entertaining, compelling read that kept me guessing and delivered a twist I genuinely did not expect.
This was very much a chewing-gum-for-the-brain sort of read, and I mean that in the best possible way. It was easy to get into, effortless to keep reading, and entertaining enough that I was happy to accept some of the more questionable moments without overthinking them. Sometimes, I just want a book that pulls me along, keeps me occupied, and gives me something to speculate about, and this did exactly that.
The mystery had me suspicious of absolutely everyone. Every time I thought I had settled on one explanation, something else would happen that made me reconsider it. I never felt completely sure who Ava could trust, what was genuinely threatening her, or whether some of the strange behaviour around her had a perfectly innocent explanation. That constant uncertainty kept the story moving, even during the quieter sections when Ava was mostly wandering around the village, worrying about the weather, or questioning what she had seen and heard.
The ending genuinely shocked me. There is a very big twist, and I did not see it coming at all. I had been looking in so many different directions that the actual reveal completely blindsided me, which is always a lovely feeling in a thriller. It is difficult to surprise me without making the twist feel as though it has been dragged in from nowhere, but this one certainly managed to catch me off guard.
That being said, the final section did become rather overcrowded. We do receive answers to almost everything, which I appreciated, but it felt as though too many revelations were packed into a relatively small number of pages. There was one particular aspect that I am not convinced the story needed, as it complicated matters without necessarily strengthening the conclusion. By the time everything had been explained, the plot had gone from intriguing to slightly overstuffed, and I think a more streamlined ending may have had more impact.
Some of the characters’ actions also stretched believability. Ava’s mum's behaviour seemed increasingly strange, and Megan’s decisions did not always feel natural either. Their motivations are eventually explained, but knowing the reasons behind their behaviour did not make every action entirely convincing. At times, it felt as though people were behaving oddly because the plot needed Ava to remain confused, rather than because their choices made complete sense.
I was also left questioning the way some of the villagers treated Ava. She openly introduced herself as Christina’s daughter, so their reactions towards her did not fully add up once the truth had been revealed. I could understand a certain amount of secrecy or awkwardness, but some of their behaviour seemed designed purely to make the village feel sinister. It created a good atmosphere while I was reading, although, looking back, parts of it do not stand up particularly well.
Despite all of that, I gave the book a pass for its flaws because I had such a good time reading it. It was quick, addictive, and exactly the kind of thriller that is easy to lose yourself in for a few hours. I never felt bored; I wanted to know what was going on, and I remained curious right up until the final pages. Sometimes, enjoyment matters more than whether every detail can survive close inspection.
There was also something strangely appealing about reading a book set during a blizzard at Christmas while sitting through a July heatwave. The freezing village, deep snow, and increasingly claustrophobic atmosphere provided a very welcome escape from the actual weather outside. It may not have been the most believable thriller I have ever read, and the ending could have done with being slightly less complicated. However, Silent Night was still an entertaining, compelling read that kept me guessing and delivered a twist I genuinely did not expect.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: Silent Night
Author: Natasha Boydell
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pub Date: August 2, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars!
Pages 305
As the snow falls, Ava Carter finds Oxford Street, London in all the Christmas glory is crazy hectic with everyone rushing around. She feels more like Scrooge. Her friend Jenny tells her perhaps she needs to go away for the holidays.
Ava recently received a letter from her mother Christina Carter a best-selling author who she hasn’t seen nor spoken to in three years. The letter states she thinks of Ava often and hopes she will consider spending a few days at her cottage over Christmas. Then adds she needs her help- cannot say any more but will explain when she sees he from her.
This causes concern and Ava believes perhaps it is time to bury the hatchet and surprise her mother by spending Christmas together.
But when she arrives at her mother’s little cottage, known as Apple Collate in White Hollow village, something feels wrong. Although her mother’s car is in the driveway there are no lights and her mother is nowhere to be seen. Ava finds a door key hidden in a rock and enters the cottage. No sight of her mother - no Christmas tree or decorations but there is food in fridge. It is getting late so she decided her mother may return late if not she will search in the morning.
The next morning there is still no sign of her mother, so she checks around.
Villagers think her mother took little holiday. She checks with local police and PC Max Bentley tells her his girlfriend is in a book club with her and she said she is going to go on a cruise. SO, nothing to worry about.
Ava disagrees as she is sure something is wrong
Ther story has spooky vibes and had me guessing if Christina was on track with writing a book about the Lost Children in the legend about White Hollow!
I love psychological thrillers and trying to figure them out is always a fun challenge. Love that this took place in beautiful snowy yet eerie festive village.
Story has twists, turns and reveals that sure fooled me. and I Love it!
When I read my first Natasha Boydell, I knew I wanted to read more of her stories!
This is my fourth thriller- all have been GREAT!
Although not Hallmark Christmas story but a great Natasha Boydell thriller! Plus a great way to start my Christmas story reading!!
Ms. Boydell tells us in her Acknowledgements that this was her first Christmas thriller, and she had fun writing it. Although the village of White Hollow is fictional, she was inspired by her journeys through Oxfordshire and found the residents welcoming unlike the residence in White Hollow.
Want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the invite to read this great thriller.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for – August 2, 2026.
Author: Natasha Boydell
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pub Date: August 2, 2026
My Rating: 5 Stars!
Pages 305
As the snow falls, Ava Carter finds Oxford Street, London in all the Christmas glory is crazy hectic with everyone rushing around. She feels more like Scrooge. Her friend Jenny tells her perhaps she needs to go away for the holidays.
Ava recently received a letter from her mother Christina Carter a best-selling author who she hasn’t seen nor spoken to in three years. The letter states she thinks of Ava often and hopes she will consider spending a few days at her cottage over Christmas. Then adds she needs her help- cannot say any more but will explain when she sees he from her.
This causes concern and Ava believes perhaps it is time to bury the hatchet and surprise her mother by spending Christmas together.
But when she arrives at her mother’s little cottage, known as Apple Collate in White Hollow village, something feels wrong. Although her mother’s car is in the driveway there are no lights and her mother is nowhere to be seen. Ava finds a door key hidden in a rock and enters the cottage. No sight of her mother - no Christmas tree or decorations but there is food in fridge. It is getting late so she decided her mother may return late if not she will search in the morning.
The next morning there is still no sign of her mother, so she checks around.
Villagers think her mother took little holiday. She checks with local police and PC Max Bentley tells her his girlfriend is in a book club with her and she said she is going to go on a cruise. SO, nothing to worry about.
Ava disagrees as she is sure something is wrong
Ther story has spooky vibes and had me guessing if Christina was on track with writing a book about the Lost Children in the legend about White Hollow!
I love psychological thrillers and trying to figure them out is always a fun challenge. Love that this took place in beautiful snowy yet eerie festive village.
Story has twists, turns and reveals that sure fooled me. and I Love it!
When I read my first Natasha Boydell, I knew I wanted to read more of her stories!
This is my fourth thriller- all have been GREAT!
Although not Hallmark Christmas story but a great Natasha Boydell thriller! Plus a great way to start my Christmas story reading!!
Ms. Boydell tells us in her Acknowledgements that this was her first Christmas thriller, and she had fun writing it. Although the village of White Hollow is fictional, she was inspired by her journeys through Oxfordshire and found the residents welcoming unlike the residence in White Hollow.
Want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the invite to read this great thriller.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for – August 2, 2026.
August 17, 2026
Thanks to Boldwood books and Netgalley for this eARC.
Silent Night by Natasha Boydell is a winter‑set psychological thriller that uses the quiet of a snow‑covered village to amplify everything unsaid, unresolved, and unsafe. Boydell leans into the emotional weight of a mother–daughter relationship strained by distance and secrets, then threads that tension through a mystery that grows sharper with every chapter.
Boydell builds this story around Ava, a woman who returns home for Christmas hoping to mend a fractured relationship with her mother. What she finds instead is absence—an empty cottage, a half‑finished life, and a village that seems determined to offer explanations that don’t quite add up. The novel’s power lies in how Boydell treats that absence: not as a plot device, but as an emotional wound that shapes Ava’s every decision.
The atmosphere is one of quiet dread, the kind that settles in slowly. Snow muffles sound, holiday lights glow too softly, and the village’s charm feels like a veneer stretched over something brittle. Boydell uses these details with precision, creating a setting that feels both beautiful and claustrophobic. It’s the kind of place where you can hear your own heartbeat—and where every shadow feels like it’s watching.
Ava’s search for her mother intertwines with a long‑buried disappearance, and Boydell handles this thread with restraint. Instead of leaning on sensationalism, she focuses on the emotional consequences of unresolved trauma and the way communities learn to live with the stories they’d rather forget. The pacing is steady but tense, driven by Ava’s growing certainty that her mother didn’t simply walk away.
What stands out most is Boydell’s commitment to emotional realism. Ava is not a stock thriller heroine; she’s messy, reactive, and deeply human. Her grief and fear feel lived‑in, and her determination to uncover the truth becomes the novel’s anchor. When the revelations arrive, they feel earned—surprising without being manipulative, unsettling without being gratuitous.
The final act delivers the kind of twist that reframes everything that came before, but Boydell keeps the focus on character rather than spectacle.
The ending lands because it speaks to the story’s core question: how well can we ever truly know the people we love?
Silent Night is a character‑driven, atmospheric thriller that blends holiday warmth with creeping unease. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy mysteries rooted in emotional complexity, small‑town secrets, and the quiet terror of realizing the past isn’t finished with you.
If I could rank this 4.5 stars I would, it is a solid nerve-racking psychological thriller that build on everyone's deepest fears, from childhood through adulthood, of things that "go bump in the night".
Silent Night by Natasha Boydell is a winter‑set psychological thriller that uses the quiet of a snow‑covered village to amplify everything unsaid, unresolved, and unsafe. Boydell leans into the emotional weight of a mother–daughter relationship strained by distance and secrets, then threads that tension through a mystery that grows sharper with every chapter.
Boydell builds this story around Ava, a woman who returns home for Christmas hoping to mend a fractured relationship with her mother. What she finds instead is absence—an empty cottage, a half‑finished life, and a village that seems determined to offer explanations that don’t quite add up. The novel’s power lies in how Boydell treats that absence: not as a plot device, but as an emotional wound that shapes Ava’s every decision.
The atmosphere is one of quiet dread, the kind that settles in slowly. Snow muffles sound, holiday lights glow too softly, and the village’s charm feels like a veneer stretched over something brittle. Boydell uses these details with precision, creating a setting that feels both beautiful and claustrophobic. It’s the kind of place where you can hear your own heartbeat—and where every shadow feels like it’s watching.
Ava’s search for her mother intertwines with a long‑buried disappearance, and Boydell handles this thread with restraint. Instead of leaning on sensationalism, she focuses on the emotional consequences of unresolved trauma and the way communities learn to live with the stories they’d rather forget. The pacing is steady but tense, driven by Ava’s growing certainty that her mother didn’t simply walk away.
What stands out most is Boydell’s commitment to emotional realism. Ava is not a stock thriller heroine; she’s messy, reactive, and deeply human. Her grief and fear feel lived‑in, and her determination to uncover the truth becomes the novel’s anchor. When the revelations arrive, they feel earned—surprising without being manipulative, unsettling without being gratuitous.
The final act delivers the kind of twist that reframes everything that came before, but Boydell keeps the focus on character rather than spectacle.
The ending lands because it speaks to the story’s core question: how well can we ever truly know the people we love?
Silent Night is a character‑driven, atmospheric thriller that blends holiday warmth with creeping unease. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy mysteries rooted in emotional complexity, small‑town secrets, and the quiet terror of realizing the past isn’t finished with you.
If I could rank this 4.5 stars I would, it is a solid nerve-racking psychological thriller that build on everyone's deepest fears, from childhood through adulthood, of things that "go bump in the night".
July 16, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and Natasha Boydell for the advance copy of Silent Night in exchange for an honest review.
The cover was the first thing that caught my attention and after reading the synopsis, I knew I had to request it. I’m so glad I did because this ended up being such an enjoyable read.
This was my first book by Natasha Boydell, and it definitely won’t be my last.
The story follows Eva as she returns to her mother’s isolated cottage after years of being estranged from both her mother and sister. From the moment she arrives, there’s this constant feeling that something isn’t quite right. Strange things keep happening, but they’re just subtle enough that you start questioning everything alongside Eva. Is she overthinking? Is she just being paranoid? Or is something actually wrong?
The isolated setting added so much to the atmosphere. Spotty phone service, the odd behavior of the townspeople, not knowing where her mother is and the growing sense that everyone knows something Eva doesn’t had me completely hooked. I kept thinking, “Okay… what is actually going on here?”
I also really enjoyed the family dynamics. The strained relationships between Eva, her mother and her sister added an emotional layer to the mystery that made me even more invested.
And just when I thought I had a handle on things… another storyline came together in a way I never saw coming. I love a twist that makes me stop and rethink everything I’d read and this one absolutely delivered.
This was fast-paced, atmospheric, suspenseful and incredibly easy to fly through. If this is what I can expect from Natasha Boydell, I’ll definitely be picking up more of her books.
To sum it up this was a tense, twisty thriller that had me questioning every little thing right along with Eva. Exactly the kind of book that makes “just one more chapter” turn into finishing the whole thing.
The cover was the first thing that caught my attention and after reading the synopsis, I knew I had to request it. I’m so glad I did because this ended up being such an enjoyable read.
This was my first book by Natasha Boydell, and it definitely won’t be my last.
The story follows Eva as she returns to her mother’s isolated cottage after years of being estranged from both her mother and sister. From the moment she arrives, there’s this constant feeling that something isn’t quite right. Strange things keep happening, but they’re just subtle enough that you start questioning everything alongside Eva. Is she overthinking? Is she just being paranoid? Or is something actually wrong?
The isolated setting added so much to the atmosphere. Spotty phone service, the odd behavior of the townspeople, not knowing where her mother is and the growing sense that everyone knows something Eva doesn’t had me completely hooked. I kept thinking, “Okay… what is actually going on here?”
I also really enjoyed the family dynamics. The strained relationships between Eva, her mother and her sister added an emotional layer to the mystery that made me even more invested.
And just when I thought I had a handle on things… another storyline came together in a way I never saw coming. I love a twist that makes me stop and rethink everything I’d read and this one absolutely delivered.
This was fast-paced, atmospheric, suspenseful and incredibly easy to fly through. If this is what I can expect from Natasha Boydell, I’ll definitely be picking up more of her books.
To sum it up this was a tense, twisty thriller that had me questioning every little thing right along with Eva. Exactly the kind of book that makes “just one more chapter” turn into finishing the whole thing.
August 2, 2026
This is the ninth Natasha Boydell book I’ve read, and she has become one of those authors I immediately turn to for her gripping storylines, and I absolutely flew through this one.
At the centre of the story is Ava Carter, who hasn’t spoken to her mother, bestselling author, Christina Carter in 3 years, so when she receives a letter from her requesting that she pays her a visit over Christmas, Ava is surprised. But when Ava arrives at her mother’s picturesque cottage in an Oxfordshire village, she is nowhere to be seen. What’s happened to Christina and is Ava now in danger ?
The story is a little slow to start, but by the half way point it does pick up and I was getting creepy vibes early on. Ava’s fear of what’s happened to her mother is conveyed powerfully, that sense of the unknown definitely stands out. The author did a great job of making me suspect everybody, and she immerses the reader in the setting - I felt as though I was in the village smelling all the spices and aromas of Christmas.There is also a little subplot towards the end which I found very interesting, and which added a final twist, before the author tied up the loose ends effectively.
Overall, this is a solid psychological thriller which kept me engaged until its conclusion, and I loved the closing sentences ! 3.5 stars 🌟 rounded up.
Many thanks to @netgalley and @boldwoodbooks for the ARC.
At the centre of the story is Ava Carter, who hasn’t spoken to her mother, bestselling author, Christina Carter in 3 years, so when she receives a letter from her requesting that she pays her a visit over Christmas, Ava is surprised. But when Ava arrives at her mother’s picturesque cottage in an Oxfordshire village, she is nowhere to be seen. What’s happened to Christina and is Ava now in danger ?
The story is a little slow to start, but by the half way point it does pick up and I was getting creepy vibes early on. Ava’s fear of what’s happened to her mother is conveyed powerfully, that sense of the unknown definitely stands out. The author did a great job of making me suspect everybody, and she immerses the reader in the setting - I felt as though I was in the village smelling all the spices and aromas of Christmas.There is also a little subplot towards the end which I found very interesting, and which added a final twist, before the author tied up the loose ends effectively.
Overall, this is a solid psychological thriller which kept me engaged until its conclusion, and I loved the closing sentences ! 3.5 stars 🌟 rounded up.
Many thanks to @netgalley and @boldwoodbooks for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Natasha Boydell blends cosy Christmas vibes with creeping unease so well that I found myself constantly second‑guessing every character and every snowy shadow. Ava’s return to the Cotswolds to surprise her mother feels charming at first, but the moment she arrives at that dark, silent cottage, the tension settles in and doesn’t let go.
I loved the contrast between the picture‑perfect village and the unsettling mystery at its heart. The historic disappearance of a little girl adds a haunting thread, and watching Ava piece together her mother’s involvement made for an addictive read. The villagers are an intriguing mix of helpful, evasive, and suspicious—Rory included—and I enjoyed how the story kept me wondering who, exactly, Ava could trust.
The pacing is tight, the atmosphere deliciously wintry, and the final act delivers exactly the kind of twisty payoff I want from a psychological thriller. It’s the perfect book for readers who like their festive fiction with a dark edge and a snowstorm of suspense.
A chilling, cosy‑but‑not‑too‑cosy Christmas mystery. I really enjoyed it.
With thanks to Natasha Boydell, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
I loved the contrast between the picture‑perfect village and the unsettling mystery at its heart. The historic disappearance of a little girl adds a haunting thread, and watching Ava piece together her mother’s involvement made for an addictive read. The villagers are an intriguing mix of helpful, evasive, and suspicious—Rory included—and I enjoyed how the story kept me wondering who, exactly, Ava could trust.
The pacing is tight, the atmosphere deliciously wintry, and the final act delivers exactly the kind of twisty payoff I want from a psychological thriller. It’s the perfect book for readers who like their festive fiction with a dark edge and a snowstorm of suspense.
A chilling, cosy‑but‑not‑too‑cosy Christmas mystery. I really enjoyed it.
With thanks to Natasha Boydell, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
August 4, 2026
Natasha Boydell’s Silent Night completely flips the script on traditional December reads. Anyone looking for a sweet, comforting holiday story packed with hot chocolate, fairs, and Christmas trees will be surprised to find an intense, slow-burn thriller instead. The December setting, turkey dinners, and snow serve merely as a chilly backdrop to a much darker story.
The novel excels in its character development. The sleepy small-town setting feels incredibly vivid, populated by complex characters dealing with messy family problems, buried secrets, and a desire for revenge. The book balances mystery and elements of romance without ever losing its gripping, suspenseful edge.
The pacing shifts in the final quarter, focusing more on the subtext and rounding up the remaining storylines. While it wasn't the main engine driving the novel's momentum, it provided a clean resolution to a very tense plot.
I highly recommended for thriller lovers who want a seasonal setting without the seasonal fluff.
Thank you to Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The novel excels in its character development. The sleepy small-town setting feels incredibly vivid, populated by complex characters dealing with messy family problems, buried secrets, and a desire for revenge. The book balances mystery and elements of romance without ever losing its gripping, suspenseful edge.
The pacing shifts in the final quarter, focusing more on the subtext and rounding up the remaining storylines. While it wasn't the main engine driving the novel's momentum, it provided a clean resolution to a very tense plot.
I highly recommended for thriller lovers who want a seasonal setting without the seasonal fluff.
Thank you to Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
Ava hates Christmas, which is something I can definitely relate to. She is estranged from both her mother and sister, and as the story unfolds, you'll gradually discover the reasons why.
When Ava receives a letter asking for help, she decides to visit her mother. But when she arrives, her mother is missing, and strange things begin happening to Ava herself. Is there a pagan ritual at work, or is something else going on entirely? And can Ava trust the handsome man who has suddenly taken an interest in her?
Don't expect a traditional Christmas story. While the premise sounded creepy, it wasn't quite as frightening as I expected. Instead, it delivered plenty of mystery, suspense, and several twists.
And that final twist? WOW. WOW. WOW. I never even considered that possibility.
As for the very last line of the book—it provides closure in an unexpected but deeply satisfying way. A compelling mystery that kept me guessing until the end.
Ava hates Christmas, which is something I can definitely relate to. She is estranged from both her mother and sister, and as the story unfolds, you'll gradually discover the reasons why.
When Ava receives a letter asking for help, she decides to visit her mother. But when she arrives, her mother is missing, and strange things begin happening to Ava herself. Is there a pagan ritual at work, or is something else going on entirely? And can Ava trust the handsome man who has suddenly taken an interest in her?
Don't expect a traditional Christmas story. While the premise sounded creepy, it wasn't quite as frightening as I expected. Instead, it delivered plenty of mystery, suspense, and several twists.
And that final twist? WOW. WOW. WOW. I never even considered that possibility.
As for the very last line of the book—it provides closure in an unexpected but deeply satisfying way. A compelling mystery that kept me guessing until the end.
August 2, 2026
Silent Night
by Natasha Boydell
Pub Date: Aug 2 2026
Silent Night is a chilling, fast-paced psychological thriller that completely subverts the cozy, festive winter trope. The story kicks off with Ava arriving unannounced at her estranged mother's picture-perfect cottage, only to find the house dark and her mother gone. While the suspicious locals insist everything is fine, Ava quickly discovers her mother was digging into a decades-old disappearance of a little girl from the village.
What makes this book so addictive is the incredible sense of isolation. The heavy snowstorm and the tight-lipped village community create a claustrophobic atmosphere where you don't know who to trust—including the seemingly friendly antiques dealer, Rory. Boydell balances the suspense with deep, emotional themes of family secrets and trauma. The plot twists are genuinely jaw-dropping and unpredictably clever. I highly recommend picking this up for a cold weekend read!
I'd like to thank #SilentNight #NetGalley and #BoldWoodBooks for providing me an E-ARC for this 5 star read!
by Natasha Boydell
Pub Date: Aug 2 2026
Silent Night is a chilling, fast-paced psychological thriller that completely subverts the cozy, festive winter trope. The story kicks off with Ava arriving unannounced at her estranged mother's picture-perfect cottage, only to find the house dark and her mother gone. While the suspicious locals insist everything is fine, Ava quickly discovers her mother was digging into a decades-old disappearance of a little girl from the village.
What makes this book so addictive is the incredible sense of isolation. The heavy snowstorm and the tight-lipped village community create a claustrophobic atmosphere where you don't know who to trust—including the seemingly friendly antiques dealer, Rory. Boydell balances the suspense with deep, emotional themes of family secrets and trauma. The plot twists are genuinely jaw-dropping and unpredictably clever. I highly recommend picking this up for a cold weekend read!
I'd like to thank #SilentNight #NetGalley and #BoldWoodBooks for providing me an E-ARC for this 5 star read!
August 24, 2026
Set in a small village in the Cotswolds, the story follows Eva as she arrives to spend Christmas with her estranged mother, only to find her missing. What unfolds is a gripping search for answers, full of dead ends and slowly unravelling secrets. Eva reaches out to her sister in the States, despite their own estrangement, and the reason behind that rift is revealed — shocking in itself, and cleverly tied into the wider mystery.
A thread of local folklore runs through the book too, centred on a child snatched at a pagan festival long ago, which adds a lovely eerie, atmospheric edge and a subtle nod to paganism. A gentle romance woven in gives it a nice festive warmth without overpowering the darker threads.
Overall, a really well-written, well-plotted story that balances mystery, family drama, and a touch of folklore beautifully. Highly recommended.
My thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an advance copy
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ava has come to visit her semi-estranged mother in the Cotswolds for Christmas. But although the scenery is picture perfect, she can feel that something is not right.
Ava's intention had been to surprise her mother, but she arrives to find that she is not home. No one seems to know where her mother has gone, and no one seems worried either - the suggestion being that Ava's mother has gone off for a last minute holiday over the Christmas break.
But it turns out that before her apparent departure, she had been looking into a cold case regarding a missing local child. Could someone in the area with something to hide have decided to circumvent her investigation by whatever means necessary?
This is an entertaining and atmospheric story, which will go down well with readers
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Ava's intention had been to surprise her mother, but she arrives to find that she is not home. No one seems to know where her mother has gone, and no one seems worried either - the suggestion being that Ava's mother has gone off for a last minute holiday over the Christmas break.
But it turns out that before her apparent departure, she had been looking into a cold case regarding a missing local child. Could someone in the area with something to hide have decided to circumvent her investigation by whatever means necessary?
This is an entertaining and atmospheric story, which will go down well with readers
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was very disappointed by this book. It started off great, the mystery was there and I wanted to know what happened. Following Ava through the village and have her met everyone gave some "Get Out" vibes. It felt the entire village had a secret and were in on the disappearance. I was there for it, and couldn't wait to see Rory being a major part of the disappearance. How disappointed I was when it was revealed, David, her terrible ex, was the one responsible. It felt like such a let down for me. After that I couldn't seem to care much about the story anymore. Just when you think it's finally over, it's unfortunately not. The author added another mystery which was not necessary. It felt like she put a bunch of ideas in a bowl, picked random ones to see what happened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having read the last witness, and thoroughly enjoyed it I was pleased to receive an ARC of her new book to get my eyes on!
It’s obviously set at Christmas and this brought some warmth to the narrative however there were some frustrations at the start- isolated woman, snow falling heavier etc etc and I thought I was in for a DNF however- it picked up pace, the story developed and things were not quite as I thought. Wouldn’t say it was a thriller that I couldn’t put down however was an easy read with a great twist.
I have to admit- I like the book she wrote before this one much more but still a great read. 3.5 for me this time!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author and publisher for an ARC of this thriller in return for an honest review.
It’s obviously set at Christmas and this brought some warmth to the narrative however there were some frustrations at the start- isolated woman, snow falling heavier etc etc and I thought I was in for a DNF however- it picked up pace, the story developed and things were not quite as I thought. Wouldn’t say it was a thriller that I couldn’t put down however was an easy read with a great twist.
I have to admit- I like the book she wrote before this one much more but still a great read. 3.5 for me this time!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author and publisher for an ARC of this thriller in return for an honest review.
July 31, 2026
Silent Night is a psychological thriller set over the festive period. Ava is estranged from both her mother and sister. However when her mother invites her to her new home for Christmas, Ava wondered if it’s finally time to put the past behind them. Her mother also hints she needs help. But when Ava arrives, her mother is nowhere to be seen. With several incidents happening, the locals not forthcoming and the enclosing weather, Ava is both worried about her mother, but also fearing for her safety. It’s a steadily paced novel and the building tension is heightened by the feeling of isolation and suspicious villagers. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the chance to review.
July 23, 2026
Silent Night is a one sit read, totally hooks you and gets you involved in Ava’s life. Ava receives a letter from her estranged mother saying she would like to invite her for Christmas. She’s doesn’t know if she’ll go, but eventually she does. She’s welcomed to an empty house, the neighbours are not friendly, either are the town folk, then she discovered a manuscript written by her mother and her Christmas break turns bad. It’s a great thriller, it’s an easy read with good characters. Ava is a bit of a scaredy cat flinching at every noise, but you soon get over it and sees why. A really good well written 5 star book. Thanks to Netgally and the publishers for a copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ava hates Christmas and is spending it alone, convinced she’d have a family by now if her partner hadn’t left her for her sister. Her mother, the famous writer Christina Carter, has been estranged from her since the fallout over her sister. Out of the blue, her mum sends a letter inviting her for Christmas, saying she needs her. Ava decides to go, but when she arrives at the cottage, there’s no sign of her mother, and the villagers are unfriendly—except for one antique dealer who befriends her. Soon, Ava can’t sleep, haunted by strange noises in the night, and someone seems determined to scare her. Where is her mother? It’s a gripping read that will keep you guessing.
August 5, 2026
I was instantly hooked and could hardly put it down.
The story starts out fairly slow, but once it picks up pace one is hit with twists and turns (not a chance of guessing what will happen next). Loved it!
Great writing, great setting, very likable (well most oft hem anyway) characters, a secluded place at Christmas time and loads of secrets.
This was the first book I read by this author, but I‘ll make sure to check out her other books too. I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes a psychological thriller with an outcome that you simply didn’t see coming.
Thank you to Boldwood Books, Natasha Boydell and NetGalley for this ARC!
The story starts out fairly slow, but once it picks up pace one is hit with twists and turns (not a chance of guessing what will happen next). Loved it!
Great writing, great setting, very likable (well most oft hem anyway) characters, a secluded place at Christmas time and loads of secrets.
This was the first book I read by this author, but I‘ll make sure to check out her other books too. I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes a psychological thriller with an outcome that you simply didn’t see coming.
Thank you to Boldwood Books, Natasha Boydell and NetGalley for this ARC!
August 10, 2026
Title: Silent Night
Author: Natasha Boydell
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Soooo many reviews state how wonderful this book is. I can't quite figure out why they feel that way. I just wasn't feeling it. I found it to be extremely slow and dry. It was difficult to sustain my attention. I have enjoyed the books I had previously read by this author, so needless to say, I was disappointed.
The creepy countryside vibes setting definitely leans itself nicely towards a psychological thriller backdrop. There was mystery, suspense, and some twists, but it was just too slow for my liking.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: Natasha Boydell
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Soooo many reviews state how wonderful this book is. I can't quite figure out why they feel that way. I just wasn't feeling it. I found it to be extremely slow and dry. It was difficult to sustain my attention. I have enjoyed the books I had previously read by this author, so needless to say, I was disappointed.
The creepy countryside vibes setting definitely leans itself nicely towards a psychological thriller backdrop. There was mystery, suspense, and some twists, but it was just too slow for my liking.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Brilliant, excellent and well executed storyline. The story itself was so good I had to keep reading once I picked it back up at the halfway point.
This is the very best of well written books where your mind is thinking one thing and when the story twists and turns it’s a complete shock at the end that you don’t see coming! So good and I can’t wait to recommend this year for a great Christmas psychological thriller read!!!
My initial rating started as a 3.5, halfway through it was bumped to a 4 BUT then as the ending neared I gasped and my jaw dropped at the very last few pages!
This is the very best of well written books where your mind is thinking one thing and when the story twists and turns it’s a complete shock at the end that you don’t see coming! So good and I can’t wait to recommend this year for a great Christmas psychological thriller read!!!
My initial rating started as a 3.5, halfway through it was bumped to a 4 BUT then as the ending neared I gasped and my jaw dropped at the very last few pages!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Natasha Boydell is not an author I am familiar with, but now that I have read Silent Night, I will be looking at her other books. I enjoyed the story, but about 1/3 of the way in I was getting a little antsy because the story was seeming to me to start to drag. Then BAM, in a heartbeat it was "I can't put this book down". I got so caught up in the story and where it was going, and just as I thought I knew everything, BAM, it shifted course, and the story took on a new look. I love when an author surprises me, and Natasha did.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Really enjoyed this book! I'm a fan of Natasha Boydell, so was excited to get a copy of this. I wouldn't usually read a Christmas book in July, but as it was an ARC and wanted to get my review written in good time. I found it very Christmassy, but not in an exaggerated way like some other xmas thrillers I've read. It's a perfect read for winter, but also a great thriller than can be enjoyed any time. I found it unsettling and mysterious. There were a lot of twists, at the end, maybe just one too many? But overall this is a great book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book. This book was very thrilling right from the start. As things start to unravel I literally was on the edge of my seat. The ending literally blew me away.
August 13, 2026
This was a very good read that had me captivated from the very beginning . Plenty of twists and turns and many times I was sure I had it all worked out to be proven wrong . I will definitely be reading more books by this author .
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gripping festive psychological thriller. Two big twists that leave you stunned. The ending was also very unexpected
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was just ok. Very slow moving and it just didn't grab me. These are only my opinions.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This chilly thriller was a perfect Christmas in July read as I floated in the tropical pool setting. The atmosphere was totally creepy and dark and the premise was rife with danger. I kept expecting horrible things to happen, and they did! The author did a good job of throwing in red herrings and when the big twist came around, I was NOT expecting it! This is my third book from Boydell and I will keep reading--she is a star! Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
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