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The Accessory: A Psychological Thriller
Not yet published
Expected 1 Oct 26253 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 1, 2026
About the author
E.R. Crain
1 book1 followerE. R. Crain lives in Boston with her husband and two dogs, who remain blissfully unbothered by the murderous musings of their housemate. A devotee of psychological fiction, she believes the scariest stories are the ones that happen in ordinary life — with someone who could be your neighbor, your friend, or even your lover.
When she's not writing, she can be found with a cup of tea that's gone cold, a book she promised herself she'd put down an hour ago, and every light in the house on. This is her debut novel.
She is currently at work on her second novel.
When she's not writing, she can be found with a cup of tea that's gone cold, a book she promised herself she'd put down an hour ago, and every light in the house on. This is her debut novel.
She is currently at work on her second novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book and am giving my honest review.
I typically read no-spice romcoms and the occasional cozy mystery, a psychological thriller is way outside of reading comfort zone. I came across an instagram reel advertising this book and I’ve got to say, it had my interest piqued. A stranger coming up to you and telling you that your boyfriend is a murderer????? I suddenly had to read the book! This book is full of suspense and will absolutely keep you on your toes. Every time I thought I knew what was happening, the rug was pulled out from under my feet. Let me tell you, I will keep thinking about this book for a long time.
This book contains a lot more profanity than I am typically comfortable reading. However the storyline was so good that I had to keep reading. While the nature of this book won’t have me recommending this book to someone I would typically recommend a romcom to, you better believe I will be getting my sister to read it so we can discuss!
I typically read no-spice romcoms and the occasional cozy mystery, a psychological thriller is way outside of reading comfort zone. I came across an instagram reel advertising this book and I’ve got to say, it had my interest piqued. A stranger coming up to you and telling you that your boyfriend is a murderer????? I suddenly had to read the book! This book is full of suspense and will absolutely keep you on your toes. Every time I thought I knew what was happening, the rug was pulled out from under my feet. Let me tell you, I will keep thinking about this book for a long time.
This book contains a lot more profanity than I am typically comfortable reading. However the storyline was so good that I had to keep reading. While the nature of this book won’t have me recommending this book to someone I would typically recommend a romcom to, you better believe I will be getting my sister to read it so we can discuss!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Accessory is a debut thriller about a woman approached by a stranger who tells her that her ex boyfriend is not the person she thinks he is. It's up to her to decide who to trust.
The saving grace of this book is the last 25%, where I really started to feel hooked by the story and where it was going. The beginning had some pacing issues for me, like it took a while to find its footing and then pick up the pace. I think its a good introduction into the thriller genre for anyone interested in getting into it, but maybe a little mild for someone who only reads thrillers.
Thank you to the author for the ARC
The saving grace of this book is the last 25%, where I really started to feel hooked by the story and where it was going. The beginning had some pacing issues for me, like it took a while to find its footing and then pick up the pace. I think its a good introduction into the thriller genre for anyone interested in getting into it, but maybe a little mild for someone who only reads thrillers.
Thank you to the author for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this one.
The character development was really well done, and I liked how the tension steadily built without feeling forced. The cold was atmospheric and it really added to the overall feeling of the story.
It’s well structured, and the 2nd half in particular really picks up the pace. It held my attention and definitely had me wanting to keep reading.
A strong debut from E.R. Crain, and one I’m glad I picked up as an ARC.
eARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The character development was really well done, and I liked how the tension steadily built without feeling forced. The cold was atmospheric and it really added to the overall feeling of the story.
It’s well structured, and the 2nd half in particular really picks up the pace. It held my attention and definitely had me wanting to keep reading.
A strong debut from E.R. Crain, and one I’m glad I picked up as an ARC.
eARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 13, 2026
This was a quick read that held my interest. The characters felt believable, the tension built steadily, and I was satisfied with the ending. My one dislike: There was a ton of run-on sentences throughout the whole novel, particularly in dialogue. However, it didn’t keep me from finishing. I would take a chance on reading another book by this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy as an ARC.
For a first time author I thought E.R. Crain did well. I was hooked from the beginning but did feel that I was waiting for something to happen. As the book progressed I felt even more attached to the book and that I couldn’t put it down. The ending got me and I was not expecting it at all!
For a first time author I thought E.R. Crain did well. I was hooked from the beginning but did feel that I was waiting for something to happen. As the book progressed I felt even more attached to the book and that I couldn’t put it down. The ending got me and I was not expecting it at all!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️ -3.75 This is a great debut from E.R. Crain, full of suspense, plot twists, and some chilling revelations. A stranger coming up to you at a bar trying to convince you that your ex is a murderer? That’s one quick way to pull me into a story!
The author does a great job with character development and creating an atmospheric setting that really fits the story. This also feels like such a good fall/winter read if you are a seasonal reader.
My only wish was for a little more balance between the character development and atmospheric setting and the dialogue and action, especially in the first few chapters. At times, the beginning felt a little heavy on setting everything up when I was ready to dive into the action. It did slow the pace down a bit for me, but not enough to keep me from turning the pages.
I am glad I kept turning them because the second half really picked up for me. The suspense continued to build, and those twists at the end were definitely worth the read!
For a first novel, I thought this was a strong introduction to E.R. Crain and I am interested to see what comes next. If you enjoy supporting indie authors, deep psychological thrillers, atmospheric reads, and unexpected twists, definitely pick this one up.
This is an ARC review in exchange for my honest opinion.
The author does a great job with character development and creating an atmospheric setting that really fits the story. This also feels like such a good fall/winter read if you are a seasonal reader.
My only wish was for a little more balance between the character development and atmospheric setting and the dialogue and action, especially in the first few chapters. At times, the beginning felt a little heavy on setting everything up when I was ready to dive into the action. It did slow the pace down a bit for me, but not enough to keep me from turning the pages.
I am glad I kept turning them because the second half really picked up for me. The suspense continued to build, and those twists at the end were definitely worth the read!
For a first novel, I thought this was a strong introduction to E.R. Crain and I am interested to see what comes next. If you enjoy supporting indie authors, deep psychological thrillers, atmospheric reads, and unexpected twists, definitely pick this one up.
This is an ARC review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The author was kind enough to brighten my life with an advanced copy of The Accessory, and I am SO glad they did!
To be frank, I have a difficult time getting into a book if it doesn’t grab my attention within the first few chapters. The Accessory was absolutely not one of those books! From the beginning, I was hooked.
I really enjoyed watching the characters unfold throughout the story. Each new layer kept me more invested, and before I knew it, I was completely wrapped up in a full-blown “who done it” frenzy. I came up with SO many theories throughout the book, constantly trying to piece together the clues and figure out where the story was going. Every time I thought I had it figured out, I found myself questioning everything all over again.
And the ending… THE ENDING.
I was completely blindsided. I genuinely did not see it coming, and that is exactly the kind of ending I love in a thriller. The kind that makes you want to immediately go back and rethink everything you just read.
The Accessory kept me guessing, kept me turning pages, and most importantly, kept me completely invested. If you love a good mystery with twists that keep you questioning your theories, definitely add this one to your TBR!
To be frank, I have a difficult time getting into a book if it doesn’t grab my attention within the first few chapters. The Accessory was absolutely not one of those books! From the beginning, I was hooked.
I really enjoyed watching the characters unfold throughout the story. Each new layer kept me more invested, and before I knew it, I was completely wrapped up in a full-blown “who done it” frenzy. I came up with SO many theories throughout the book, constantly trying to piece together the clues and figure out where the story was going. Every time I thought I had it figured out, I found myself questioning everything all over again.
And the ending… THE ENDING.
I was completely blindsided. I genuinely did not see it coming, and that is exactly the kind of ending I love in a thriller. The kind that makes you want to immediately go back and rethink everything you just read.
The Accessory kept me guessing, kept me turning pages, and most importantly, kept me completely invested. If you love a good mystery with twists that keep you questioning your theories, definitely add this one to your TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved it! I thoroughly enjoyed The Accessory. It is a gripping & tense read. This is a great psychological thriller debut that is brilliantly written, taking time to set the scene,building the tension as each character reveals a little more about themselves as the story picks up pace, their behaviours, controlling or caring? and it had me questioning absolutely everyone. As Georgia's relationship with Christian breaks down she finds herself drinking in a pub where she is approached by a stranger called Matty who goes onto to reveal his suspicions about Christian being a serial killer. Accusing him of killing a girl that he knew and others.
It is a believable story especially when Georgia finds evidence that backs it up, but nothing is that straightforward, nothing is at it first seems. I thought I had it all worked out, haha! no. The jaw dropping revelations are brilliantly done. The Accessory is a tense twisty thriller that kept me guessing all the way through and had me turning the pages late into the night needing to know how it all played out.Who to trust and who survives? I highly recommend you read this one to find out!
It is a believable story especially when Georgia finds evidence that backs it up, but nothing is that straightforward, nothing is at it first seems. I thought I had it all worked out, haha! no. The jaw dropping revelations are brilliantly done. The Accessory is a tense twisty thriller that kept me guessing all the way through and had me turning the pages late into the night needing to know how it all played out.Who to trust and who survives? I highly recommend you read this one to find out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️¾ — 3.75 stars
*The Accessory* by E.R. Crain was an easy, engaging read with clear and fluid writing. The pacing struck a good balance—it never felt too slow or overly rushed—and the story was consistently easy to follow.
I especially enjoyed questioning whether the three primary characters were telling the truth or hiding something. The author provided enough background and explanation for each character that I found myself rooting for certain people to succeed while hoping others would not.
Although the story kept me wondering whether the suspected murderer was actually responsible, I was hoping for a bigger and more unexpected reveal. There was a twist near the end, but it wasn’t quite as thrilling or surprising as I had hoped. However, the action and fight-for-survival elements made the conclusion very enjoyable to read.
Overall, this was a compelling debut that I would recommend to thriller readers, particularly those who enjoy suspicious characters, uncertain motives, and wondering whom they can trust.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
*The Accessory* by E.R. Crain was an easy, engaging read with clear and fluid writing. The pacing struck a good balance—it never felt too slow or overly rushed—and the story was consistently easy to follow.
I especially enjoyed questioning whether the three primary characters were telling the truth or hiding something. The author provided enough background and explanation for each character that I found myself rooting for certain people to succeed while hoping others would not.
Although the story kept me wondering whether the suspected murderer was actually responsible, I was hoping for a bigger and more unexpected reveal. There was a twist near the end, but it wasn’t quite as thrilling or surprising as I had hoped. However, the action and fight-for-survival elements made the conclusion very enjoyable to read.
Overall, this was a compelling debut that I would recommend to thriller readers, particularly those who enjoy suspicious characters, uncertain motives, and wondering whom they can trust.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved The Accessory by E.R. Crain! I ended up reading it in just three evenings—and more than once I stayed up way past my usual bedtime because I had to keep going.
The beginning was a little slow for me, but once the story picked up, it really ramped up. What I enjoyed most was how much this book kept me guessing. Just when I thought I had things figured out, something would happen that made me completely reevaluate my theories about what was really going on.
The characters were well developed throughout the story, and I enjoyed watching them evolve as the plot unfolded. There were plenty of twists and questions that kept me invested without feeling like I was being handed all the answers too quickly.
Overall, The Accessory was a fantastic read, and I’d definitely recommend it—especially if you enjoy a story that keeps you questioning your theories right up until the end!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The beginning was a little slow for me, but once the story picked up, it really ramped up. What I enjoyed most was how much this book kept me guessing. Just when I thought I had things figured out, something would happen that made me completely reevaluate my theories about what was really going on.
The characters were well developed throughout the story, and I enjoyed watching them evolve as the plot unfolded. There were plenty of twists and questions that kept me invested without feeling like I was being handed all the answers too quickly.
Overall, The Accessory was a fantastic read, and I’d definitely recommend it—especially if you enjoy a story that keeps you questioning your theories right up until the end!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
E.R. Crain's The Accessory is an absolute triumph of psychological suspense. As bodies surface in the Charles River and a chilling alternate version of her partner comes to light, Georgia is forced into a desperate race to uncover the truth.
Georgia feels genuinely human. Her fear, confusion and growing paranoia are so palpable that you'll find yourself right in her shoes.
From the very first chapter, the narrative grabs hold and keeps you hooked, building up momentum that makes it nearly impossible to put down.
And just when you think you've pieced the puzzle together, Crain pulls the rug out from under you, subverting expectations with clever, high-stakes revelations.
If you love smart, twisty thrillers that keep you guessing until the final page, The Accessory is an essential read. It hooks you instantly and leaves you questioning how well you can ever truly know someone.
Georgia feels genuinely human. Her fear, confusion and growing paranoia are so palpable that you'll find yourself right in her shoes.
From the very first chapter, the narrative grabs hold and keeps you hooked, building up momentum that makes it nearly impossible to put down.
And just when you think you've pieced the puzzle together, Crain pulls the rug out from under you, subverting expectations with clever, high-stakes revelations.
If you love smart, twisty thrillers that keep you guessing until the final page, The Accessory is an essential read. It hooks you instantly and leaves you questioning how well you can ever truly know someone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the very first page to the very last, this thriller kept me completely on my toes. I never felt like I could predict what was coming next, and every time I thought I had figured something out, the story had me second-guessing myself all over again.
The suspense kept building, the twists kept coming, and I genuinely never knew what the next move was going to be. That feeling of “okay, surely I know where this is going…” only to realize I absolutely did NOT? 👏🏼 THAT is what I want from a thriller!
I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this as an ARC because this was such a fun, gripping story to experience. If you love thrillers that keep you guessing, constantly make you question what you think you know, and have you turning pages because you NEED to know what happens next…
Add this one to your TBR. You’re going to want to keep your eyes on this book. 👀📖🔥
Thank you to E.R. Crain for the opportunity to read an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The suspense kept building, the twists kept coming, and I genuinely never knew what the next move was going to be. That feeling of “okay, surely I know where this is going…” only to realize I absolutely did NOT? 👏🏼 THAT is what I want from a thriller!
I’m so glad I had the opportunity to read this as an ARC because this was such a fun, gripping story to experience. If you love thrillers that keep you guessing, constantly make you question what you think you know, and have you turning pages because you NEED to know what happens next…
Add this one to your TBR. You’re going to want to keep your eyes on this book. 👀📖🔥
Thank you to E.R. Crain for the opportunity to read an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An Absolute Page-Turner!As a huge fan of psychological thrillers, I am always on the lookout for a story that can genuinely surprise me, and this one delivered on every level.From the very first chapter, I was completely hooked. It is a true page-turner that I simply could not put down, staying up way too late just to read "one more chapter." What elevated this book for me was the character development. I felt deeply invested in each of the characters and desperately wanted to see how everything would turn out for them. The ending did not disappoint! If you love tense, atmospheric thrillers with characters you actually care about, add this to your reading list immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
How would you respond to a total stranger approaching you in a bar, accusing your boyfriend of 6 years of being a serial killer?
That’s what happens to Georgia. In her local bar drowning her sorrows, she’s approached by Mattey, who’s convinced her ex is a serial killer. When Georgia starts to do her own research, she too starts connecting the lines.
Bringing her best friend into the mix to help her with her investigation, Caroline reminds Georgia that Mattey is a stranger that knew too much about her personal life for any of this to be a coincidence.
Who is the monster in this story? This book will keep you guessing until the very end!
That’s what happens to Georgia. In her local bar drowning her sorrows, she’s approached by Mattey, who’s convinced her ex is a serial killer. When Georgia starts to do her own research, she too starts connecting the lines.
Bringing her best friend into the mix to help her with her investigation, Caroline reminds Georgia that Mattey is a stranger that knew too much about her personal life for any of this to be a coincidence.
Who is the monster in this story? This book will keep you guessing until the very end!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was totally up my alley and I read it EVERYWHERE in the office, car, late at night in bed. It had a steady combination of world building and character development as the suspense creeps up. I felt like I was there with Georgia and her anxiety and thought process made so much sense.
I will definitely be recommending this to my fellow readers bc HOLY PLOT TWIST!!
The only thing I felt could happen made it even better was a little more sophisticated language. At times it felt it would be more suited for a middle or early high school reading level. That did not stop it from being my main point of conversation though!
This book was totally up my alley and I read it EVERYWHERE in the office, car, late at night in bed. It had a steady combination of world building and character development as the suspense creeps up. I felt like I was there with Georgia and her anxiety and thought process made so much sense.
I will definitely be recommending this to my fellow readers bc HOLY PLOT TWIST!!
The only thing I felt could happen made it even better was a little more sophisticated language. At times it felt it would be more suited for a middle or early high school reading level. That did not stop it from being my main point of conversation though!
September 14, 2026
I received this as an advance copy from the author and I’m so glad I did. This book had me hooked from the start. I swear in some of the chapters I felt like I was in Georgia’s shoes on she was treated by her boyfriend. Like I felt the same scenarios on his behavior so i immediately felt for her. But this book has you guessing at every moment of who is doing what? It’s like everyone is a suspect! It had me wanting more and more of what’s going to happen next. I needed to know! Thank you to the author for letting me read this before it was published! Can’t wait for more of your books!!
September 15, 2026
Anyone knows I will drop a book into the DNF abyss if it doesn’t catch my interest. I also rarely finish a book in a reasonable amount of time so for me to finish this in a week is a good sign.
I received this as an advanced copy from the author, and I was pleasantly surprised. This is very easy to follow and is well written. I thoroughly enjoyed the content, and the characters involved. I don’t want to reveal any spoilers or details, but if you enjoy mystery or psychological thrillers, this is the book for you. The book flows well and moves at a decent pace.
I received this as an advanced copy from the author, and I was pleasantly surprised. This is very easy to follow and is well written. I thoroughly enjoyed the content, and the characters involved. I don’t want to reveal any spoilers or details, but if you enjoy mystery or psychological thrillers, this is the book for you. The book flows well and moves at a decent pace.
Review of advance copy received from Author
New author to me and I am so glad I read this!
I am also thankful for the advanced copy I received from E.R.. My review is my honest thoughts on the book.
Have you ever read a book that makes you guess what happens next? And leaves you needing more? That makes you stay up til 6 am to finish because you NEED to see how it ends?
If so, this maybe your book.
I loved how E.R. wrote this book and makes you fall in love with the characters and makes you try to guess who is the Charles River killer.
Oh so good.
Can't wait for book two!
I am also thankful for the advanced copy I received from E.R.. My review is my honest thoughts on the book.
Have you ever read a book that makes you guess what happens next? And leaves you needing more? That makes you stay up til 6 am to finish because you NEED to see how it ends?
If so, this maybe your book.
I loved how E.R. wrote this book and makes you fall in love with the characters and makes you try to guess who is the Charles River killer.
Oh so good.
Can't wait for book two!
September 21, 2026
I just finished my ARC copy of this book and it was really good - I stayed up way too late for a few nights because I couldn’t put it down.
A few reviewers said the beginning was slow and the end was great - I actually thought the beginning was great and the end was a little too fast paced, it could have used a little more to it; everything happened very suddenly (however it was still so so good).
And oh my gosh - the plot twist! I’m pretty good at predicting books but I did not see that one coming at all. A great debut from this author and I look forward to reading whatever comes next!
A few reviewers said the beginning was slow and the end was great - I actually thought the beginning was great and the end was a little too fast paced, it could have used a little more to it; everything happened very suddenly (however it was still so so good).
And oh my gosh - the plot twist! I’m pretty good at predicting books but I did not see that one coming at all. A great debut from this author and I look forward to reading whatever comes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, what a ride! The Accessory hooked me from the very beginning and kept me invested right until the end. The characters, especially Georgia, felt incredibly real. The combination of intriguing characters and vivid, descriptive writing made me feel like I was right there with them, experiencing their emotions alongside them as the story unfolded. I was constantly engaged and eager to know what was going to happen next.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I received an advance copy of this book.
By no means I am an avid reader and I had this book finished in 4 days. It keeps you guessing until the very end. It's suspenseful and keeps you guessing which kept me interested. With cliff hanger at the end I hope theres is a follow up soon. I did feel like there was something missing but I couldn't put my finger on what it is. Great read if you like suspense.
By no means I am an avid reader and I had this book finished in 4 days. It keeps you guessing until the very end. It's suspenseful and keeps you guessing which kept me interested. With cliff hanger at the end I hope theres is a follow up soon. I did feel like there was something missing but I couldn't put my finger on what it is. Great read if you like suspense.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was definitely a quick read and there were some moments where you feel that heart racing anticipation but as a whole the book was underwhelming. I loved the concept and the last 5 or so chapters were great! But the building of the story was just not very good in my opinion. It was mid - the last 5 chapters saved it
Review of advance copy received from Author
*ARC in exchange for honest review*.
Fun, suspenseful, mysterious read! I read it in two days! Action packed from the start with mult plot twists! I enjoyed each character and just when I thought I had figured it out, boom…Even bigger plot twist! If you’re looking for an easy, suspenseful and entertaining read I highly recommend!
Fun, suspenseful, mysterious read! I read it in two days! Action packed from the start with mult plot twists! I enjoyed each character and just when I thought I had figured it out, boom…Even bigger plot twist! If you’re looking for an easy, suspenseful and entertaining read I highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
GASPING FOR AIR. Started the book thinking I’d just read a little bit and go to bed. Welp, at 2 am (on a work night mind you) I forced myself to sleep….and got up at 5am the next morning to read more, suffered my way through a work day and finished it as soon as I got home (dog and spouse be damned). This book absolutely gripped me from start to finish.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me on the edge of my seat! Lots of twists and turns and it kept me guessing. I would relate this to some of my other favorite thriller authors including Ruth Ware or Frieda McFadden. You’ll go through it quickly bc you’ll want to know the ending!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Very interesting and drew me in from the beginning. I was on the edge of my seat and definitely could not stop reading until I finished entire book. I went back and forth on "who did it" and still came up surprised at ending. Fantastic read.
September 19, 2026
I was given an ARC in exchange for a review.
This book started out a little slow, but once I got about half way through, the pace picked up and I couldn’t put it down. I did not see the twist at the end coming!
This book started out a little slow, but once I got about half way through, the pace picked up and I couldn’t put it down. I did not see the twist at the end coming!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Read
This book had me hooked from the first few chapters. Following Georgia's rollercoater to discover what really happened once Matty brings her into the mystery. Who can she trust?
There are a few parts of the story I would have liked to seen layed out a bit differently or left out.
This book had me hooked from the first few chapters. Following Georgia's rollercoater to discover what really happened once Matty brings her into the mystery. Who can she trust?
There are a few parts of the story I would have liked to seen layed out a bit differently or left out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow - once I picked this book up I couldn’t put it back down. Engaging plot line, relatable characters, powerful suspense from beginning to end. I’m so jealous of anyone who is reading this for the first time. Would give it 6 stars if I could.
Review of advance copy
This book was so good, I finished it all in one morning! After each chapter, I couldn’t stop and had to keep reading to find out what was going to happen.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews