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What the Neighbors Saw
Desperate Housewives
meets The Couple Next Door in a chilling story of murder and intrigue set in a well-to-do DC suburb.
Sometimes the darkest acts occur in the most beautiful houses…
When Alexis and her husband Sam buy a neglected Cape Cod house in an exclusive DC suburb, they are ecstatic. Sam is on the cusp of making partner at his law firm, Alexis is pregnant with their second child, and their glamorous neighbors welcome the couple with open arms. Things are looking up, and Alexis believes she can finally leave her troubled past behind.
But the neighborhood’s picture-perfect image is shattered when their neighbor Teddy – a handsome, successful father of three – is found dead on the steep banks of the Potomac River. The community is shaken, and as the police struggle to identify and apprehend the killer, tension in the neighborhood mounts and long-buried secrets start to emerge.
In the midst of the turmoil, Alexis takes comfort in her budding friendship with Teddy’s beautiful and charismatic widow, Blair. But as the women grow closer, the neighborhood only becomes more divided. And when the unthinkable truth behind Teddy’s murder is finally uncovered, both Blair and Alexis must reexamine their friendship and decide how far they are willing to go to preserve the lives they have so carefully constructed.
Sometimes the darkest acts occur in the most beautiful houses…
When Alexis and her husband Sam buy a neglected Cape Cod house in an exclusive DC suburb, they are ecstatic. Sam is on the cusp of making partner at his law firm, Alexis is pregnant with their second child, and their glamorous neighbors welcome the couple with open arms. Things are looking up, and Alexis believes she can finally leave her troubled past behind.
But the neighborhood’s picture-perfect image is shattered when their neighbor Teddy – a handsome, successful father of three – is found dead on the steep banks of the Potomac River. The community is shaken, and as the police struggle to identify and apprehend the killer, tension in the neighborhood mounts and long-buried secrets start to emerge.
In the midst of the turmoil, Alexis takes comfort in her budding friendship with Teddy’s beautiful and charismatic widow, Blair. But as the women grow closer, the neighborhood only becomes more divided. And when the unthinkable truth behind Teddy’s murder is finally uncovered, both Blair and Alexis must reexamine their friendship and decide how far they are willing to go to preserve the lives they have so carefully constructed.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2023
463 people are currently reading
42916 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Adelman
3 books266 followersMelissa Adelman was born and raised in the Washington, D.C. suburbs, a first-generation American with parents from Haiti and Chile. When she is not traveling the world for her job as an international development economist, her favorite place to be is at home, an old house full of surprises just outside D.C. Melissa lives with her husband, two energetic little boys, and long-suffering shih tzu. What the Neighbors Saw is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,640 reviews
June 20, 2023
3.75 rounded up!
Alexis was raised by a single mom, so it was her dream to be able to purchase a home with her husband Sam, in an exclusive D.C. suburb, where they and their two infants could feel “safe”- even if the only home they could afford was a neglected Cape Cod being sold “as is”.
But, tragedy struck shortly after they moved in-when their neighbor, Teddy, is found dead on the steep banks of the Potomac River, and the Police deem that it WASN’T an accident.
There are no leads.
Up late with a newborn, Alexis also sees other “startling” things, as she looks out of her kitchen’s large picture window…or when she peeps into the windows of her neighbors- Not things she was expecting to see in a neighborhood such as this.
Suddenly she doesn’t feel very safe anymore…
Sam is growing more frustrated with their “money pit” and with her, and she finds herself turning to her new neighbor, Teddy’s widow, Blair. The two are able to offer each other moral support.
The story unfolds through their alternating perspectives.
Blair didn’t seem too traumatized by her husband’s death-is she reliable?
And, I wondered how Sam and Alexis ever got together and had two kids-he often belittled her, and calling her “old lady” did not seem like a term of endearment.
Again, there weren’t any men with redeeming qualities in this book.
This DEBUT is a slow burn, neighborhood SUSPENSE story. Not a lot happens in the first half, and I didn’t find the reveal of who killed Teddy, particularly shocking either,
AND YET, I enjoyed the story, nonetheless!
I guess it was refreshing to read something plausible that wasn’t over the top!
I look forward to seeing what Melissa Adelman writes next!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank You to Minotaur Books for sending me an invitation to read this! An ARC was provided through NetGalley and it was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Alexis was raised by a single mom, so it was her dream to be able to purchase a home with her husband Sam, in an exclusive D.C. suburb, where they and their two infants could feel “safe”- even if the only home they could afford was a neglected Cape Cod being sold “as is”.
But, tragedy struck shortly after they moved in-when their neighbor, Teddy, is found dead on the steep banks of the Potomac River, and the Police deem that it WASN’T an accident.
There are no leads.
Up late with a newborn, Alexis also sees other “startling” things, as she looks out of her kitchen’s large picture window…or when she peeps into the windows of her neighbors- Not things she was expecting to see in a neighborhood such as this.
Suddenly she doesn’t feel very safe anymore…
Sam is growing more frustrated with their “money pit” and with her, and she finds herself turning to her new neighbor, Teddy’s widow, Blair. The two are able to offer each other moral support.
The story unfolds through their alternating perspectives.
Blair didn’t seem too traumatized by her husband’s death-is she reliable?
And, I wondered how Sam and Alexis ever got together and had two kids-he often belittled her, and calling her “old lady” did not seem like a term of endearment.
Again, there weren’t any men with redeeming qualities in this book.
This DEBUT is a slow burn, neighborhood SUSPENSE story. Not a lot happens in the first half, and I didn’t find the reveal of who killed Teddy, particularly shocking either,
AND YET, I enjoyed the story, nonetheless!
I guess it was refreshing to read something plausible that wasn’t over the top!
I look forward to seeing what Melissa Adelman writes next!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank You to Minotaur Books for sending me an invitation to read this! An ARC was provided through NetGalley and it was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
May 28, 2023
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3.5 Stars
This book is described as Desperate Housewives meets The Couple Next Door and that's pretty spot on. There is lots of drama in this neighbourhood (and between these pages) with twists a plenty. This is a case of keeping up with the Joneses and be careful what you wish for. Alexis and her husband have bought a fixer-upper in an affluent D.C. neighbourhood and they desperately want to fit in but have a hard time doing so.
The story is very engaging and I loved the dual perspectives of Alexis and Blair. The best thing about this book is everything is wonderfully secret until the very end plus the plot line wasn't too out there. The author's characterization was wonderful as I could clearly picture each character (and there are many) in my head. It was a bit of a slow burn at the start and nothing really exciting happens until about halfway through. But if you're patient this one is a decent domestic suspense with a murder mystery thrown in!
I have been to Alexandria, Virginia many times and am familiar with the area where this story takes place. so it was pretty neat to be taken back there again through this story. Melissa Adelman writes a pretty satisfying debut and I look forward to what she comes up with next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
3.5 Stars
This book is described as Desperate Housewives meets The Couple Next Door and that's pretty spot on. There is lots of drama in this neighbourhood (and between these pages) with twists a plenty. This is a case of keeping up with the Joneses and be careful what you wish for. Alexis and her husband have bought a fixer-upper in an affluent D.C. neighbourhood and they desperately want to fit in but have a hard time doing so.
The story is very engaging and I loved the dual perspectives of Alexis and Blair. The best thing about this book is everything is wonderfully secret until the very end plus the plot line wasn't too out there. The author's characterization was wonderful as I could clearly picture each character (and there are many) in my head. It was a bit of a slow burn at the start and nothing really exciting happens until about halfway through. But if you're patient this one is a decent domestic suspense with a murder mystery thrown in!
I have been to Alexandria, Virginia many times and am familiar with the area where this story takes place. so it was pretty neat to be taken back there again through this story. Melissa Adelman writes a pretty satisfying debut and I look forward to what she comes up with next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
June 19, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up because it had some good twists even if most of the characters were unlikable.
I'm a fan of juicy neighborhood stories, and while this one took a bit of time to get going, overall I did like it in the end. There are many unreliable characters and they all have secrets.
Alexis is a business consultant married to attorney Sam. They have one small child and she is pregnant with their second. They discover a large house in a very desirable DC suburb, but it needs a LOT of work. However, they can't resist the lure of the wealthy, serene neighborhood with its affluent neighbors. Not long after they move in, one of their neighbors, Teddy, is found murdered along a riverside path. Alexis becomes friends with his widow, Blair, who introduces her to many of the other neighbors as the investigation continues.
I honestly could not see what Alexis saw in Sam. From his calling her "old lady" to just not being supportive of her at all, I just wanted to reach through the book and tell her to wake up and kick him out, finances be damned.
The one thing Alexis did find out in the end is that the grass is not necessarily greener in the wealthy neighborhood. Yes, they have all of the trappings of a "perfect life" but they have the same troubles as everyone else in the world.
This is a pretty fast paced story even though the setup was way too long. The reveal of who killed Teddy was juicy, but not really a big shock. I did enjoy this debut novel and look forward to more from this author. I listened to it partially as an audiobook and the dual narrators for Alexis and Blair weren't necessarily needed, but they kept my interest in each character.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I'm a fan of juicy neighborhood stories, and while this one took a bit of time to get going, overall I did like it in the end. There are many unreliable characters and they all have secrets.
Alexis is a business consultant married to attorney Sam. They have one small child and she is pregnant with their second. They discover a large house in a very desirable DC suburb, but it needs a LOT of work. However, they can't resist the lure of the wealthy, serene neighborhood with its affluent neighbors. Not long after they move in, one of their neighbors, Teddy, is found murdered along a riverside path. Alexis becomes friends with his widow, Blair, who introduces her to many of the other neighbors as the investigation continues.
I honestly could not see what Alexis saw in Sam. From his calling her "old lady" to just not being supportive of her at all, I just wanted to reach through the book and tell her to wake up and kick him out, finances be damned.
The one thing Alexis did find out in the end is that the grass is not necessarily greener in the wealthy neighborhood. Yes, they have all of the trappings of a "perfect life" but they have the same troubles as everyone else in the world.
This is a pretty fast paced story even though the setup was way too long. The reveal of who killed Teddy was juicy, but not really a big shock. I did enjoy this debut novel and look forward to more from this author. I listened to it partially as an audiobook and the dual narrators for Alexis and Blair weren't necessarily needed, but they kept my interest in each character.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
June 20, 2023
Wow!! I feel like 2023 is the year of the 🔥🔥🔥 covers!! Right?! Here rolling in hot 🔥 is another gorgeous one!! Okay so this book isn’t out until 6/13/23… but I couldn’t wait!! I HAD to know… WHAT the heck did these neighbors see??? 🤔🤔 SO I binged this the second I got it. Thank you soo much to @minotaur_books for my gorgeous gifted copy!! 🥰🥰🥰
Seriously… I needed to know… let me tell you… they saw ALOT!! 😂 Just because your neighborhood is exclusive and filled to the brim with “very important people “…. doesn’t mean there isn’t some sketchy as hell going on’s..🤫🤫 Alexis and Sam are about to get clued into that… very quickly! 😉
Oh man… the drama… 😬… Rich 💵 people behaving badly.. powerful people covering up for them… domestic drama… EVERYWHERE!! I mean… is anyone… normal… or happily married? 😂🤔🤷♀️
This book was totally bingeable… totally entertaining… oh and most of you will be glad to know there is also.. MURDER..😳😂.. The best part?? This is a debut!! I love reading a great debut!! Looking forward to seeing more from @melissaadelmanauthor !!! She is one to watch! 😉😍
Seriously… I needed to know… let me tell you… they saw ALOT!! 😂 Just because your neighborhood is exclusive and filled to the brim with “very important people “…. doesn’t mean there isn’t some sketchy as hell going on’s..🤫🤫 Alexis and Sam are about to get clued into that… very quickly! 😉
Oh man… the drama… 😬… Rich 💵 people behaving badly.. powerful people covering up for them… domestic drama… EVERYWHERE!! I mean… is anyone… normal… or happily married? 😂🤔🤷♀️
This book was totally bingeable… totally entertaining… oh and most of you will be glad to know there is also.. MURDER..😳😂.. The best part?? This is a debut!! I love reading a great debut!! Looking forward to seeing more from @melissaadelmanauthor !!! She is one to watch! 😉😍
June 21, 2023
One infant and another on the way, her husband Sam expected to make partner at his law firm and a new home in an affluent DC suburb – everything seems to be going well for Alexis and her family. The house is a fixer-upper and will need quite a bit of work but Alexis is up for the challenge though money might be a bit tight with her on maternity leave from her Consultant job, Alexis is hopeful that this move will usher in a new beginning for her and her family.
Alexis eventually moves into her new home with her husband, two children and live-in nanny and slowly gets to know her new neighbors, the first of whom is Blair who has lived in the neighborhood for over fifteen years. Tragedy rocks the community when Blair’s husband Teddy is found dead at the bottom of a trail near their home on the banks of the Potomac and all evidence points to the fact that it was indeed murder. An investigation ensues and Alexis befriends Blair, them spending a lot of time in each other’s company. As the narrative progresses, Alexis begins to notice strange occurrences in the neighborhood, and if the rumors and gossip making rounds has even an ounce of truth to them, her neighbors have a lot going on under the veneer of the perfect image they strive to maintain. Could any of them be responsible for Teddy’s murder? Is the neighborhood really as safe as it looks to be? Can Alexis trust her neighbors?
"Every house has skeletons in the coat closet. Maybe in every closet. In this neighborhood that’s for sure.”
I struggled with What the Neighbors Saw by Melissa Adelman. The story is presented through a dual narrative in alternating chapters. Initially, I was intrigued by the mysterious death of and was looking forward to an intricately plotted domestic suspense thriller but what followed was a long-drawn description of the lives of the affluent, their lies and secrets, bad marriages and infidelities, pettiness and more of the same with the mystery and the investigation taking a backseat. The plot progression was slow, tedious and repetitive. The characters were mostly unlikable, but that did make the story somewhat interesting. Only in the final 20% of the novel was my interest resurrected. I didn’t see the end coming which is always a good thing. Overall, while the premise of the novel held promise, I was a tad disappointed with its execution. Overall, too much drama and too little intrigue!
I paired my reading with the audio narration by Hillary Huber and Sarah Hollis both of whom did a wonderful job of voicing the characters and making the story come to life. The audio certainly helped me get through this novel.
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Book and Macmillan Audio for the ARC and ALC of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Alexis eventually moves into her new home with her husband, two children and live-in nanny and slowly gets to know her new neighbors, the first of whom is Blair who has lived in the neighborhood for over fifteen years. Tragedy rocks the community when Blair’s husband Teddy is found dead at the bottom of a trail near their home on the banks of the Potomac and all evidence points to the fact that it was indeed murder. An investigation ensues and Alexis befriends Blair, them spending a lot of time in each other’s company. As the narrative progresses, Alexis begins to notice strange occurrences in the neighborhood, and if the rumors and gossip making rounds has even an ounce of truth to them, her neighbors have a lot going on under the veneer of the perfect image they strive to maintain. Could any of them be responsible for Teddy’s murder? Is the neighborhood really as safe as it looks to be? Can Alexis trust her neighbors?
"Every house has skeletons in the coat closet. Maybe in every closet. In this neighborhood that’s for sure.”
I struggled with What the Neighbors Saw by Melissa Adelman. The story is presented through a dual narrative in alternating chapters. Initially, I was intrigued by the mysterious death of and was looking forward to an intricately plotted domestic suspense thriller but what followed was a long-drawn description of the lives of the affluent, their lies and secrets, bad marriages and infidelities, pettiness and more of the same with the mystery and the investigation taking a backseat. The plot progression was slow, tedious and repetitive. The characters were mostly unlikable, but that did make the story somewhat interesting. Only in the final 20% of the novel was my interest resurrected. I didn’t see the end coming which is always a good thing. Overall, while the premise of the novel held promise, I was a tad disappointed with its execution. Overall, too much drama and too little intrigue!
I paired my reading with the audio narration by Hillary Huber and Sarah Hollis both of whom did a wonderful job of voicing the characters and making the story come to life. The audio certainly helped me get through this novel.
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Book and Macmillan Audio for the ARC and ALC of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
June 29, 2023
I finished the book at the same day I got its digital copy! Its fast pacing, thrilling, absolutely scandalous, mysterious thriller makes your jaw drop! At least that’s what happened to me as I reached the last quarter. One of the twists was totally shocking. The author plays with us so adroitly!
The plot promoted as Desperate Housewives meets The couple next door which makes sense. But I have to say nothing desperate about the wives who keep really earth shattering secrets.
The only thing rubbed me wrong was the unlikable POVs of the book. Don’t get me wrong. The writing style is capturing. Alexis and Blair seem like opposite characters. Alexis comes from poverty, depressed, insecure as Blair is confident, wealthy, pretty, bold, arrogant. But there are so many common qualities they both have. You’ll find out as soon as you start reading their perspectives.
The story starts Alexis and Sam’s house hunting that results with buying a neglected, mostly dilapidated Cape Cod house which seems like money trap, needing extra reconstructions.
They recently welcomed their baby boy and Alexis is pregnant again. Their budget is tight. But they try to take their chances.
At their first day,they meet with their future neighbor, handsome, successful businessman Teddy and his three teenage sons. He and his wife Blair seems like ideal happy couple but when we read what happened behind the closed doors, both of the couples have troubled marriages.
A few weeks later, fishermen identify a dead body on banks of the Potomac. That body belongs to Teddy. Blair is devastated because her husband’s death is announced as homicide. Who may have killed him?
After Teddy’s death, Alexis spends more time with Blair. Their blooming friendship attracts attention of their neighbors as neighborhood becomes more divided. Then Alexis finds out something which rocks her world! Ok! I’m stopping right here!
I didn’t like Alexis and Blair but the smart writing style , quick pace, shocking revelations absolutely earned my four stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Minotaur Books for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
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The plot promoted as Desperate Housewives meets The couple next door which makes sense. But I have to say nothing desperate about the wives who keep really earth shattering secrets.
The only thing rubbed me wrong was the unlikable POVs of the book. Don’t get me wrong. The writing style is capturing. Alexis and Blair seem like opposite characters. Alexis comes from poverty, depressed, insecure as Blair is confident, wealthy, pretty, bold, arrogant. But there are so many common qualities they both have. You’ll find out as soon as you start reading their perspectives.
The story starts Alexis and Sam’s house hunting that results with buying a neglected, mostly dilapidated Cape Cod house which seems like money trap, needing extra reconstructions.
They recently welcomed their baby boy and Alexis is pregnant again. Their budget is tight. But they try to take their chances.
At their first day,they meet with their future neighbor, handsome, successful businessman Teddy and his three teenage sons. He and his wife Blair seems like ideal happy couple but when we read what happened behind the closed doors, both of the couples have troubled marriages.
A few weeks later, fishermen identify a dead body on banks of the Potomac. That body belongs to Teddy. Blair is devastated because her husband’s death is announced as homicide. Who may have killed him?
After Teddy’s death, Alexis spends more time with Blair. Their blooming friendship attracts attention of their neighbors as neighborhood becomes more divided. Then Alexis finds out something which rocks her world! Ok! I’m stopping right here!
I didn’t like Alexis and Blair but the smart writing style , quick pace, shocking revelations absolutely earned my four stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Minotaur Books for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
June 28, 2023
I was on the fence about reading this one for some time. I love neighborhood dramas, but for some reason I held back. Until I saw the audio with dual narrators! I figured this was the perfect opportunity to give it a go!
Alexis and Sam are busy living their new lives. Moving into a neighborhood of their dreams. Alex pregnant with their second child. Sam working all hours to make partner at his law firm.
Blair and Teddy are also residents, in their perfect home with the air of an elite. A perfect family.
But when a body is found, the idyllic neighborhood is turned upside down. Well, at least it should have been, you’d think. But nobody seemed overly concerned. It almost felt like the murder took a back seat. To what you ask!? I’m asking myself the same question.🤷🏻♀️
This read seemingly lacked direction. A slow bun that really never caught fire. Not until the final 10% or so that anything substantial happened (as bizarre as it was) and by then I had lost interest.
With a blurb describing the book as a mix of Desperate Housewives meet The Couple Next Door it should have been a five star read! But unfortunately it just didn’t deliver.
Every character was thoroughly unlikeable. With the abusive behaviors and sexual misconducts (among many other un-neighborly behavior) I’d be putting up my 'For Sale' sign and high tailing it out of this so called coveted neighborhood!
The plus for me was I listened to the audio and the narrators were amazing! Both women delivered superb performances!
Thank you to McMillan Audio 🎧
Alexis and Sam are busy living their new lives. Moving into a neighborhood of their dreams. Alex pregnant with their second child. Sam working all hours to make partner at his law firm.
Blair and Teddy are also residents, in their perfect home with the air of an elite. A perfect family.
But when a body is found, the idyllic neighborhood is turned upside down. Well, at least it should have been, you’d think. But nobody seemed overly concerned. It almost felt like the murder took a back seat. To what you ask!? I’m asking myself the same question.🤷🏻♀️
This read seemingly lacked direction. A slow bun that really never caught fire. Not until the final 10% or so that anything substantial happened (as bizarre as it was) and by then I had lost interest.
With a blurb describing the book as a mix of Desperate Housewives meet The Couple Next Door it should have been a five star read! But unfortunately it just didn’t deliver.
Every character was thoroughly unlikeable. With the abusive behaviors and sexual misconducts (among many other un-neighborly behavior) I’d be putting up my 'For Sale' sign and high tailing it out of this so called coveted neighborhood!
The plus for me was I listened to the audio and the narrators were amazing! Both women delivered superb performances!
Thank you to McMillan Audio 🎧
February 23, 2023
‘What the Neighbors Saw’, is a debut novel by Melissa Adelman. Going by the synopsis, I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this book, seeing it was compared to a Desperate Housewives type of vibe. I’m not really into that, but this flawed neighborhood had everything I could ask for and more!
This story starts off with our main character, Alexis, and her husband Sam house hunting and buying a house in a very upscale neighborhood. The house needs a lot of work, basically a whole house renovation. Alexis is also pregnant and expecting their second child together. The stress can be unbearable at times.
After moving in, Alexis and Sam start to meet their neighbors. However, Alexis gets to know many of them after the tragic death of Teddy- who is their neighbor across the street. Teddy’s grieving widow, Blair, soon becomes very close with Alexis. Through Blair, Alexis is able to learn and hear about all of the neighborhood gossip- and then some.
What I loved most about this book was all of the rich character development, especially that of Alexis. I don’t think I have resonated with a character as much as I have with that of Alexis. I felt her personality matched mine pretty spot on. Her husband Sam however, is the perfect example of a total douche-canoe! I literally despised him!
What did I as a reader and Alexis learn from this story? Basically people are the same no matter what house or neighborhood they live in. In fact, Alexis stated it perfectly, “Only now, after these months of living here, do I see that the same dirty sins stain everyone. The clean, bright wash of wealth is just a more effective cover.”
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I highly recommend it to those who like a bit of domestic suspense and drama.
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books, and the author for an ARC of this book that I had the pleasure of reading. All opinions are my own. Publication date: June 20, 2023.
This story starts off with our main character, Alexis, and her husband Sam house hunting and buying a house in a very upscale neighborhood. The house needs a lot of work, basically a whole house renovation. Alexis is also pregnant and expecting their second child together. The stress can be unbearable at times.
After moving in, Alexis and Sam start to meet their neighbors. However, Alexis gets to know many of them after the tragic death of Teddy- who is their neighbor across the street. Teddy’s grieving widow, Blair, soon becomes very close with Alexis. Through Blair, Alexis is able to learn and hear about all of the neighborhood gossip- and then some.
What I loved most about this book was all of the rich character development, especially that of Alexis. I don’t think I have resonated with a character as much as I have with that of Alexis. I felt her personality matched mine pretty spot on. Her husband Sam however, is the perfect example of a total douche-canoe! I literally despised him!
What did I as a reader and Alexis learn from this story? Basically people are the same no matter what house or neighborhood they live in. In fact, Alexis stated it perfectly, “Only now, after these months of living here, do I see that the same dirty sins stain everyone. The clean, bright wash of wealth is just a more effective cover.”
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I highly recommend it to those who like a bit of domestic suspense and drama.
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books, and the author for an ARC of this book that I had the pleasure of reading. All opinions are my own. Publication date: June 20, 2023.
September 15, 2023
3.5 stars
Though by no means did it blow me away, Melissa Adelman’s debut, What the Neighbors Saw, is a decent domestic suspense novel.
It’s a neighborhood story, which I find fun, set in an affluent Washington, D.C. suburb with sprawling houses and chic residents. And like most of these sorts of tales, there’s a murder that rocks the community, causing new neighbors, Alexis and Sam, to wonder if they’ll ever feel safe in their new home.
If you’re looking for something different, you won’t find it here. But if all you want is an easy, intriguing read, then what Adelman offers will work fine.
Just don’t be surprised if you find it predictable, because I sure did. Only one of the twists shocked me, and it was a little too coincidental and far-fetched for me to buy it.
But hey, the genre has never been known for its believability. And bottom line, What the Neighbors Saw did its job: it entertained me until the very end.
My sincerest appreciation to Melissa Adelman, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
Though by no means did it blow me away, Melissa Adelman’s debut, What the Neighbors Saw, is a decent domestic suspense novel.
It’s a neighborhood story, which I find fun, set in an affluent Washington, D.C. suburb with sprawling houses and chic residents. And like most of these sorts of tales, there’s a murder that rocks the community, causing new neighbors, Alexis and Sam, to wonder if they’ll ever feel safe in their new home.
If you’re looking for something different, you won’t find it here. But if all you want is an easy, intriguing read, then what Adelman offers will work fine.
Just don’t be surprised if you find it predictable, because I sure did. Only one of the twists shocked me, and it was a little too coincidental and far-fetched for me to buy it.
But hey, the genre has never been known for its believability. And bottom line, What the Neighbors Saw did its job: it entertained me until the very end.
My sincerest appreciation to Melissa Adelman, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for the digital review copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
June 11, 2023
Alexis and her husband Sam (there's that name again!) buy a house in an exclusive DC suburb, a house that they can't really afford and that requires a lot of work and expense. Alexis is pregnant with their second child when they first move in and is on a leave from her job with a consulting agency and Sam is a successful lawyer. Not long after they move in, their neighbor Teddy is found dead on the steep banks of the Potomac River and Alexis gradually becomes close with his widow Blair even though she never feels quite like she fits in.
There's an odd assortment of neighbours in this exclusive neighbourhood and I found them quite fascinating. The story is told from the alternating viewpoints of Alexis and Blair and is well done. There are some interesting characters and I really felt for Alexis having to put up with Sam's meanness. He made my blood boil. This was quite impressive for a debut novel and I'll be on the lookout for future works from this author. 3.5 Stars rounded up.
I was invited to read this book by Minotaur Books so my thanks to them, to Victoria, Marketing Intern, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publishing Date: June 20, 2023
There's an odd assortment of neighbours in this exclusive neighbourhood and I found them quite fascinating. The story is told from the alternating viewpoints of Alexis and Blair and is well done. There are some interesting characters and I really felt for Alexis having to put up with Sam's meanness. He made my blood boil. This was quite impressive for a debut novel and I'll be on the lookout for future works from this author. 3.5 Stars rounded up.
I was invited to read this book by Minotaur Books so my thanks to them, to Victoria, Marketing Intern, and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an early copy of the book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publishing Date: June 20, 2023
June 18, 2023
Alexis and her husband Sam purchased a Cape Cod house in need of some TLC in an exclusive DC neighborhood. Their interesting and glamorous neighbors welcome them with open arms. They feel as if they have finally arrived. Sam is on the cusp of making partner at his law firm and they are growing their family.
This is not Mr. Rogers neighborhood!
Their neighbor, Teddy is found dead, the police are investigating and trying to find his killer. The perfect neighborhood is left reeling and shocked.
How well do you know those in your life? How well do you know your neighbors? Who would want to kill Teddy?
I had both the book and audiobook versions of this book. I was intrigued by the blurb: "Desperate Housewives meets The Couple Next Door in a chilling story of murder and intrigue set in a well-to-do DC suburb." This drew me in. But Desperate Housewives wasn't slow. This book is a slow burn, and I am not the slow burn kinda girl. I love my books to grab me from the beginning. This one dragged for me. The second half of the book was better than the first, but it wasn't until the last 15% that I was fully invested in the plot.
This book has secrets, lies, deception and murder! It was enjoyable but a slow a burn for me. I can't fault the writing, but I struggled with the slowness of the book. Things do come together in the end in a satisfying way. That was enjoyable.
Others are enjoying this book more than I did, please read their reviews as well.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
This is not Mr. Rogers neighborhood!
Their neighbor, Teddy is found dead, the police are investigating and trying to find his killer. The perfect neighborhood is left reeling and shocked.
How well do you know those in your life? How well do you know your neighbors? Who would want to kill Teddy?
I had both the book and audiobook versions of this book. I was intrigued by the blurb: "Desperate Housewives meets The Couple Next Door in a chilling story of murder and intrigue set in a well-to-do DC suburb." This drew me in. But Desperate Housewives wasn't slow. This book is a slow burn, and I am not the slow burn kinda girl. I love my books to grab me from the beginning. This one dragged for me. The second half of the book was better than the first, but it wasn't until the last 15% that I was fully invested in the plot.
This book has secrets, lies, deception and murder! It was enjoyable but a slow a burn for me. I can't fault the writing, but I struggled with the slowness of the book. Things do come together in the end in a satisfying way. That was enjoyable.
Others are enjoying this book more than I did, please read their reviews as well.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
July 19, 2023
3.5⭐
Genre ~ domestic thriller
Publication date ~ June 20, 2023
Page Count ~ 291
Audio length ~ 8 hours 41 minutes
Narrators ~ Hillary Huber, Sarah Hollis
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ debut novel, dated chapters, murder, secrets, infidelity
Alexis & Sam buy a million dollar fixer up cuz they wanna feel fancy shmancy in this prestigious neighborhood. Blair & Teddy live across the street. When Teddy turns up dead Alexis reaches out to Blair and they form a friendship.
None of the characters were particularly likable. Sam was not a prize husband by any means. And Alexis putting up with him made me not feel any sympathy for her.
Overall, it was a decent~ish, slow moving debut. I gotta say I didn't see the twist coming, so that's always exciting, but I was not a fan and I don't think many would be.
I was fortunate enough to have a kindle and an audio copy. Both were perfectly acceptable.
Narration notes ~ Hillary is a well seasoned narrator and did a lovely job. I'm not sure if I've listened to Sarah before, but I thought she did a fine job too.
*Thanks to the author, St Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the ARC and audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Genre ~ domestic thriller
Publication date ~ June 20, 2023
Page Count ~ 291
Audio length ~ 8 hours 41 minutes
Narrators ~ Hillary Huber, Sarah Hollis
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ debut novel, dated chapters, murder, secrets, infidelity
Alexis & Sam buy a million dollar fixer up cuz they wanna feel fancy shmancy in this prestigious neighborhood. Blair & Teddy live across the street. When Teddy turns up dead Alexis reaches out to Blair and they form a friendship.
None of the characters were particularly likable. Sam was not a prize husband by any means. And Alexis putting up with him made me not feel any sympathy for her.
Overall, it was a decent~ish, slow moving debut. I gotta say I didn't see the twist coming, so that's always exciting, but I was not a fan and I don't think many would be.
I was fortunate enough to have a kindle and an audio copy. Both were perfectly acceptable.
Narration notes ~ Hillary is a well seasoned narrator and did a lovely job. I'm not sure if I've listened to Sarah before, but I thought she did a fine job too.
*Thanks to the author, St Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the ARC and audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
June 21, 2023
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
and they saw a lot!
It's great to want to move into an somewhat elite neighborhood, and hobnob with the residents of your block. When Alexis and Sam pile every cent they have into a rundown house in an exclusive DC area, they figure they are on their way. The parents of almost two children, pushed mostly by Alexis, they move in and then between the repairs and the neighbors they find, this nirvana is not at all what they had hoped.
When Teddy, a well to do neighbor is found dead on the banks of the Potomac, their illusions take a big hit. The community adapts one of those "how is it possible it happened here" attitude and then slowly the secrets behind their lavish doors starts to come out with lots of intrigue.
Alex and Teddy's widow, Blair become friends, as the secrets descend and as Teddy's murder facts emerge, their friendship undergoes the ultimate test.
Although a bit slow moving in parts, this thriller had a fair number of surprises, as secrets often do teaching us all that it's never a good idea to look in other people's windows.
Thank you to Melissa Adelman, a newbie author, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the ability to listen to this book which came out June 20,1023
3.5 stars
and they saw a lot!
It's great to want to move into an somewhat elite neighborhood, and hobnob with the residents of your block. When Alexis and Sam pile every cent they have into a rundown house in an exclusive DC area, they figure they are on their way. The parents of almost two children, pushed mostly by Alexis, they move in and then between the repairs and the neighbors they find, this nirvana is not at all what they had hoped.
When Teddy, a well to do neighbor is found dead on the banks of the Potomac, their illusions take a big hit. The community adapts one of those "how is it possible it happened here" attitude and then slowly the secrets behind their lavish doors starts to come out with lots of intrigue.
Alex and Teddy's widow, Blair become friends, as the secrets descend and as Teddy's murder facts emerge, their friendship undergoes the ultimate test.
Although a bit slow moving in parts, this thriller had a fair number of surprises, as secrets often do teaching us all that it's never a good idea to look in other people's windows.
Thank you to Melissa Adelman, a newbie author, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for the ability to listen to this book which came out June 20,1023
lost-interest
February 20, 2023Desperate Housewives meets The Couple Next Door? Count me in!
Many thanks to Victoria Cardoso at St. Martin's Publishing for sending me an ARC. I'm not used to request books written by authors I don't know, but this one seems just my type!
Many thanks to Victoria Cardoso at St. Martin's Publishing for sending me an ARC. I'm not used to request books written by authors I don't know, but this one seems just my type!
April 13, 2023
WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW was immediately on the top of my TBR list—the cover, the title, the synopsis, a debut?!—all the makings for a book I'd love to read and promote. Sadly, this book is too much of a slow burn, the title makes no sense to the story, and the ending is predictable, yet over the top. I don't want to go into more of why I didn't enjoy this book, but I will say that the author is a great writer. I just think the book needed a better edit prior to going out for promotional reviewers' feedback. I would read the author's future works as I did think the author did a great job with trying to engage the reader, but the subject matter just didn't grasp my attention.
August 11, 2023
You find the perfect house... or at least the perfect neighborhood with a massive fixer-upper. Soon after you move in, a neighbor is murdered. Two other neighbors attack someone, including you. Your husband is basically being a jerk because you won't just be happy. And you're black, in a white neighborhood. Could things get any worse? Yup... the women of the neighborhood are all two-faced, except one who is two-faced to others but real to you. What's she hiding? What the Neighbors Saw is a new release by Melissa Adelman, a book I found on NetGalley. Good thriller; lots of subtle micro-aggressions leading up to a full-on war. Who's cheating on whom is the question here. I enjoyed this one, but it took a long time to turn into something more page-turning. Domestic drama with a twist, and at the same time, an ending completely out of left field, so much so... I am still wondering it this book is a 3 or a 4. I'd read more by the author tho, and it's worth giving the story a chance.
dnf-lost-interest
December 21, 2022Surprise book mail, FTW! Added bonus: I love reading books set close to where I live.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
December 8, 2023
A deadly neighborhood if you ask me!
Alexis and her husband Sam have moved into an exclusive neighborhood. This is what Alexis has always wanted. She wanted prestige and safety and she hoped her fixer-upper could deliver just that.
When Alexix moves to the neighborhood, she is pregnant with her second child. Sam is trying to become a partner at the firm he works at. Due to the financial drain the new house has become their relationship is strained. Sam belittles her and keeps on reminding her that when she changed her job, she made a mistake (getting paid less money, and no good promotions in her future). Thankfully, Alexis has in her corner, her live-in nanny who helps her out with anything her kids need.
Despite her marital problems, Alexis likes the neighborhood until Teddy, a successful handsome man, and father of three, is found murdered while jogging a trail on the bank of the Potomac River.
Alexis worries about the murder. Who did it? Is one of the neighbors responsible for it?
Alexis feels bad for Blair, the widow, and can't stay away and offers support. Soon a friendship develops until Alexis finds herself trying to piece together a deadly secret Blair might have.
A slow burn with some good twists, although I guessed the important ones.
From the main characters, I found myself liking Alexis and not so much Blair. All the neighborhood men were awful including Sam who was such an inconsiderate bully. I have no clue why Alexis would have picked him for her husband and father of her children. Thankfully, she had a live-in nanny because he was no help.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Alexis and her husband Sam have moved into an exclusive neighborhood. This is what Alexis has always wanted. She wanted prestige and safety and she hoped her fixer-upper could deliver just that.
When Alexix moves to the neighborhood, she is pregnant with her second child. Sam is trying to become a partner at the firm he works at. Due to the financial drain the new house has become their relationship is strained. Sam belittles her and keeps on reminding her that when she changed her job, she made a mistake (getting paid less money, and no good promotions in her future). Thankfully, Alexis has in her corner, her live-in nanny who helps her out with anything her kids need.
Despite her marital problems, Alexis likes the neighborhood until Teddy, a successful handsome man, and father of three, is found murdered while jogging a trail on the bank of the Potomac River.
Alexis worries about the murder. Who did it? Is one of the neighbors responsible for it?
Alexis feels bad for Blair, the widow, and can't stay away and offers support. Soon a friendship develops until Alexis finds herself trying to piece together a deadly secret Blair might have.
A slow burn with some good twists, although I guessed the important ones.
From the main characters, I found myself liking Alexis and not so much Blair. All the neighborhood men were awful including Sam who was such an inconsiderate bully. I have no clue why Alexis would have picked him for her husband and father of her children. Thankfully, she had a live-in nanny because he was no help.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
February 14, 2023
Alexis and Sam find their dream home in the neighborhood of River Forest, an exclusive suburb of DC. The Cape Cod style house needs some work, but they ultimately decide it's the one they want to raise their children in. After living there for several weeks, their neighbor, Teddy, is found dead in the Potomac river and the police believe it is a homicide. Soon after Alexis becomes fast friends with Teddy's wife, Blair. She also learns that all her neighbors are not the best of people and starts to become suspicious of all of them. Alexis starts to regret buying the house, but Sam convinces her that it's fine. The question is...will the detectives ever find out what happened to Teddy? Or will Alexis figure it out first?
WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW was an incredible debut! I was hooked from the first page. I always enjoy a good neighborhood mystery! I loved Alexis, she was such a strong character! She had a tough childhood, but turned out to be an amazing mother. Sam, on the other hand, was a real creep! That's all I will say. I highly recommend reading this delicious story full of greed, deception, and mystery! You will have to wait until the end for the big twist, but it is well worth it! 4.5 stars rounding up to 5
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review!
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW was an incredible debut! I was hooked from the first page. I always enjoy a good neighborhood mystery! I loved Alexis, she was such a strong character! She had a tough childhood, but turned out to be an amazing mother. Sam, on the other hand, was a real creep! That's all I will say. I highly recommend reading this delicious story full of greed, deception, and mystery! You will have to wait until the end for the big twist, but it is well worth it! 4.5 stars rounding up to 5
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my ARC in exchange for my honest review!
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
February 5, 2023
This was a decent story that was made better by a surprise twist. The story centers on Alexis, who moves to a ritzy suburb outside of Washington DC with her family. Shortly after, a neighbor named Teddy is found dead and it turns out that there are secrets being harbored throughout what seemed like the perfect neighborhood. You also get chapters told from the POV of the dead man’s wife, Blair.
I felt like not a lot happened in the first part of the book beyond Teddy’s death but I think that was so the author could paint the picture of the dynamics between the neighbors. Once Alexis stumbles onto a secret that was worth killing for, the pace picked up. There were a couple of twists, one that was quite unique. I did feel like there were some big things that were not fully explained, though, and wish I wasn’t left with some unanswered questions.
Overall, I liked the book and appreciated the surprises and the fact that the storyline ended up being out of the ordinary. I’d recommend it to those who like domestic suspense and are fascinated by an out of the box storyline. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I felt like not a lot happened in the first part of the book beyond Teddy’s death but I think that was so the author could paint the picture of the dynamics between the neighbors. Once Alexis stumbles onto a secret that was worth killing for, the pace picked up. There were a couple of twists, one that was quite unique. I did feel like there were some big things that were not fully explained, though, and wish I wasn’t left with some unanswered questions.
Overall, I liked the book and appreciated the surprises and the fact that the storyline ended up being out of the ordinary. I’d recommend it to those who like domestic suspense and are fascinated by an out of the box storyline. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2023
This debut had a very interesting premise but I’m not sure it was executed as well as it could have been. The premise of how well do you really know your neighbors and a more modest couple moving into a rich neighborhood to look at how the other half is living up close was good. But I struggled with seeing Alexis and Sam as modestly wealthy since they have a live in nanny, buy an expensive house and do lots of renovations, buy a brand new BMW. The story moved a bit slowly and while I understand and can appreciate a slow burn this one fizzled at the end for me. I think part of what was slow and struggled to grab my attention is that I didn’t like any of the characters very much. Shortly after Sam and Alexis move in to their new work in progress home their neighbor Blair’s husband is murdered in the woods nearby on a trail. As the police struggle to find any clues all of the dark secrets of the neighborhood start to show and seem extra sinister.
September 10, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up.
There aren't many other 5 star reviews - yet! But this whole book resonated with me, probably because my quiet little, rural neighborhood just had a murder/suicide incident a month ago, which strangely remains still open and under investigation even though it would seem to most of us open-and-shut. Many secrets resulting in many rumors and conspiracy theories!
So this book's murder mystery came at just the right time for me, plus the dual narrators totally nailed it. Very well constructed; super character development. I sympathized with stay-at-home Alexis in her struggle to fit in in her new group of so-called friends while her lawyer husband is off traveling and advancing in his law career. She's super smart and has a lot of time on her hands to figure out what the police couldn't, shocking as it turns out to be, while their new house is crumbling around them.
Minatore Books comped me an e-galley, but I'm so glad I went with the audio instead on this one. Thanks to them for bringing this fantastic debut to my attention.
There aren't many other 5 star reviews - yet! But this whole book resonated with me, probably because my quiet little, rural neighborhood just had a murder/suicide incident a month ago, which strangely remains still open and under investigation even though it would seem to most of us open-and-shut. Many secrets resulting in many rumors and conspiracy theories!
So this book's murder mystery came at just the right time for me, plus the dual narrators totally nailed it. Very well constructed; super character development. I sympathized with stay-at-home Alexis in her struggle to fit in in her new group of so-called friends while her lawyer husband is off traveling and advancing in his law career. She's super smart and has a lot of time on her hands to figure out what the police couldn't, shocking as it turns out to be, while their new house is crumbling around them.
Minatore Books comped me an e-galley, but I'm so glad I went with the audio instead on this one. Thanks to them for bringing this fantastic debut to my attention.
July 4, 2023
Sam and Alexis needed to get out of their condo.
When a run-down house in a swanky neighborhood on Shadow Road came on the market, they had to have it.
The neighborhood had million-dollar homes and lots of secrets. Even the street's name seemed to be an omen of some of the mischief and goings on.
When one of the neighbors is murdered, all of the neighbors and especially Sam and Alexis find out that even living in a posh neighborhood doesn't keep you safe or free from gossip and unsavory neighbors.
I didn't trust any of the neighbors, especially Blair whose husband was murdered. She seemed to have an ulterior motive for making friends with Alexis.
The other neighbors all had domestic problems with a few of the husbands being unfaithful.
WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW is a mystery and drama wrapped up into one good read with twists and distrust.
A bit predictable, but a great debut! 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
When a run-down house in a swanky neighborhood on Shadow Road came on the market, they had to have it.
The neighborhood had million-dollar homes and lots of secrets. Even the street's name seemed to be an omen of some of the mischief and goings on.
When one of the neighbors is murdered, all of the neighbors and especially Sam and Alexis find out that even living in a posh neighborhood doesn't keep you safe or free from gossip and unsavory neighbors.
I didn't trust any of the neighbors, especially Blair whose husband was murdered. She seemed to have an ulterior motive for making friends with Alexis.
The other neighbors all had domestic problems with a few of the husbands being unfaithful.
WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW is a mystery and drama wrapped up into one good read with twists and distrust.
A bit predictable, but a great debut! 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
March 12, 2023
Whew! Deception, lies, betrayal.. and murder. It’s all that.. and more.. in a D.C. upper-crust neighborhood of gossipy, rich and entitled cast of characters. It’s very fast paced, and when a husband is found murdered it kept me guessing, to the very end, on whodunnit. And the dirty little secrets revealed inside this domestic-suspense thriller may have you blushing (it did me!) Who would of ever guessed I’d enjoy this deliciously wicked and addicting story as much as I did!!! Melissa Edelman is an author I’ll be keeping an eye out for. A stellar debut. 4.5 stars — 6/13/23
Much thanks to Victoria Cardoso at St. Martin’s Publishing for kindly sending me an advanced digital copy via NetGalley! All opinions are my own.
Much thanks to Victoria Cardoso at St. Martin’s Publishing for kindly sending me an advanced digital copy via NetGalley! All opinions are my own.
May 13, 2023
Expecting their second child, Sam and Alexis were over the moon when they bought a much larger house in a prestigious and idyllic neighborhood. With a large backyard in a quiet community, Alexis envisioned raising a healthy and happy family full of giggles and laughter.
But what Sam and Alexis thought would be their dream home turned out to be an albatross around their necks. Endless renovations and repairs took a toll on their finances and marriage. And with a new baby to care for, the strain became unbearable. So when their neighbor Teddy is found dead in a nearby river, the tension mounts giving way to neighborhood suspicions and accusations.
What the Neighbors Saw wasn’t so much of a mystery/thriller but more of a slow and deliberate domestic drama. The story unfolds through dual points of view between Alexis and newly widowed Blair. It flows in a linear timeline and through a sequence of events. It was easy to follow. However, the pacing was slow and lacked that adrenaline rush one expects from the mystery/thriller genre.
The characters were developed enough to get a sense of their national origin. I didn’t particularly like any of them. But that’s a good thing since to me, it means that the author has deftly managed to impart a range of personalities in each of her characters.
I wasn’t particularly captivated by this novel since nothing of interest occurred after the murder. And the ending didn’t do much to fully redeem the somewhat lackluster story. Three stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press throught NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
But what Sam and Alexis thought would be their dream home turned out to be an albatross around their necks. Endless renovations and repairs took a toll on their finances and marriage. And with a new baby to care for, the strain became unbearable. So when their neighbor Teddy is found dead in a nearby river, the tension mounts giving way to neighborhood suspicions and accusations.
What the Neighbors Saw wasn’t so much of a mystery/thriller but more of a slow and deliberate domestic drama. The story unfolds through dual points of view between Alexis and newly widowed Blair. It flows in a linear timeline and through a sequence of events. It was easy to follow. However, the pacing was slow and lacked that adrenaline rush one expects from the mystery/thriller genre.
The characters were developed enough to get a sense of their national origin. I didn’t particularly like any of them. But that’s a good thing since to me, it means that the author has deftly managed to impart a range of personalities in each of her characters.
I wasn’t particularly captivated by this novel since nothing of interest occurred after the murder. And the ending didn’t do much to fully redeem the somewhat lackluster story. Three stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press throught NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 3, 2023
What the Neighbors Saw
by Melissa Adelman
Pub Date: 20 Jun 2023
St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books
General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Rating 4.25/5
An intricate thriller, What The Neighbors Saw rivals the top bestsellers. It is baffling and mysterious. With plenty of red herrings, this book held my attention and kept me turning the pages quickly.
Alexis and Sam purchase a house in an upscale neighborhood. They hope their growing family will have a beautiful safe place to grow up. Within weeks of moving in, a neighbor is killed. Unease and worry spread throughout the neighborhood. Does the killer live nearby?
Thank you NetGalley, and St. Martin's Press for sharing this stunning book with me. Your kindness is appreciated.
#WhatTheNeighborsSaw
#NetGalley #Netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra
by Melissa Adelman
Pub Date: 20 Jun 2023
St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books
General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers
Rating 4.25/5
An intricate thriller, What The Neighbors Saw rivals the top bestsellers. It is baffling and mysterious. With plenty of red herrings, this book held my attention and kept me turning the pages quickly.
Alexis and Sam purchase a house in an upscale neighborhood. They hope their growing family will have a beautiful safe place to grow up. Within weeks of moving in, a neighbor is killed. Unease and worry spread throughout the neighborhood. Does the killer live nearby?
Thank you NetGalley, and St. Martin's Press for sharing this stunning book with me. Your kindness is appreciated.
#WhatTheNeighborsSaw
#NetGalley #Netgalleyapprovals #Netgalleyapproval @advancedreaderscopy #tbrbooks #tbrpile #bookaddict #bookreviewer #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra
July 2, 2023
this was SO good. I couldn’t book this book down. It’s very much desperate housewives mixed with murder. If you haven’t read this yet definitely go read it!!! Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
June 29, 2023
2.5 Stars
No likable characters and the story drags after the first quarter.
Alexis and her husband Sam just moved into an exclusive neighborhood. What was supposed to be a new and exciting start quickly turned into a nightmare. The new renovations cost more than expected, Alexis and Sam are constantly arguing, and not to mention one of their neighbors was found near the river. Who and why would anybody want to kill their neighbor?
The beginning and setup were interesting. Unfortunately, after the first quarter, the storyline started to drag. Nothing happens until the very end. But by then I didn't care anymore. Also, all the characters were unlikable and one-dimensional.
Overall, not for me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Melissa Adelman, St. Martin's Press, and Minotaur Books for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
No likable characters and the story drags after the first quarter.
Alexis and her husband Sam just moved into an exclusive neighborhood. What was supposed to be a new and exciting start quickly turned into a nightmare. The new renovations cost more than expected, Alexis and Sam are constantly arguing, and not to mention one of their neighbors was found near the river. Who and why would anybody want to kill their neighbor?
The beginning and setup were interesting. Unfortunately, after the first quarter, the storyline started to drag. Nothing happens until the very end. But by then I didn't care anymore. Also, all the characters were unlikable and one-dimensional.
Overall, not for me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Melissa Adelman, St. Martin's Press, and Minotaur Books for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
June 20, 2023
This "chilling story of murder and intrigue" failed to provide the "chills" that I was seeking and expecting.
I was intrigued by the book's "Just how well do we know our neighbors?" premise:
Who was responsible for a mysterious death in an affluent DC suburb?
Unfortunately, the book was waaay too slow and repetitive.
I listened to the full-cast audiobook read by Hillary Huber (one of my favorite narrators!) and Sarah Hollis.
I always enjoy full-cast audiobooks and both narrators did a superb job with the narration.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars rounded up.
June 7, 2024
A young couple decides to purchase a fixer upper in an affluent area that they wouldn't otherwise be able to afford. It's their dream home, or it will be once they repair it, decorate it, and basically, sink all their money into it in the process. They believe all their hard work and sacrifice will be worth it in the long run until a neighbor's murder soon after they move in has them questioning everything.
What the Neighbors Saw is a domestic thriller by debut author Melissa Adelman. When I read the blurb, I immediately thought this book would be right up my alley. It's one of the types of thrillers I enjoy reading most, and I couldn't wait to dive in. I finished the whole thing in one sitting, because I had to know who the killer was and what in the hell was going on with the people in that neighborhood. They all seemed shady af to me, so the author obviously kept me intrigued throughout the story.
The problem I had with it mostly lied in the slow-burn nature of the narrative and the ending. I appreciated the twists, one of which I guessed and one I didn't. I can't say more without spoiling the book, so I'll leave it at that.
Domestic thriller and Desperate Housewives-style drama fans that don't mind a slower-moving plot, this one's for you!
What the Neighbors Saw is a domestic thriller by debut author Melissa Adelman. When I read the blurb, I immediately thought this book would be right up my alley. It's one of the types of thrillers I enjoy reading most, and I couldn't wait to dive in. I finished the whole thing in one sitting, because I had to know who the killer was and what in the hell was going on with the people in that neighborhood. They all seemed shady af to me, so the author obviously kept me intrigued throughout the story.
The problem I had with it mostly lied in the slow-burn nature of the narrative and the ending. I appreciated the twists, one of which I guessed and one I didn't. I can't say more without spoiling the book, so I'll leave it at that.
Domestic thriller and Desperate Housewives-style drama fans that don't mind a slower-moving plot, this one's for you!
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