Author: Clare Mackintosh
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
Publication Date: September 16, 2025
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
I dove into this latest DC Morgan thriller expecting a solid crime read, but Mackintosh completely blindsided me with how cleverly she wove together multiple criminal cases, both current and cold. The story immediately draws you into The Hill, an exclusive Cheshire neighborhood where break-ins are escalating, while across the border in Wales, DC Ffion Morgan is investigating the suspicious death of an estate agent found in a lake.
The plot's complexity never feels overwhelming, instead building layers of intrigue that kept me constantly second-guessing my theories about who was behind the crimes. The author demonstrates remarkable plotting prowess, managing to keep the true culprits hidden until the final reveal.
Character development remains one of Mackintosh's strongest suits, particularly with DC Ffion Morgan. In this installment, we see meaningful growth in Ffion's character, especially regarding her commitment to both her personal relationships and professional responsibilities. Her evolution feels authentic and adds emotional depth to the procedural elements.
The investigation methodology and the way the separate cases eventually collide feels both organic and satisfying. Mackintosh expertly builds tension while exploring themes of secrets, privilege, and the lengths people will go to protect their carefully constructed lives behind closed doors. By the final chapters, I was completely absorbed, racing to see how all the threads would come together.
A big thank you to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
