A review by momobookdiary
THE NEIGHBOR by N.L. Hinkens

4.0

The Neighbor is a gripping and well-written read that kept me engaged from start to finish. The vivid descriptions and unsettling atmosphere pull you into the story, making you question every character’s motives. From the outset, there’s a growing sense of unease—not just about the new neighbours, Gary and Beth, but also about Kay, the woman keeping an unusually close eye on them. 

 

As president of the Homeowners’ Association, Kay takes her role as the neighbourhood watchdog very seriously—perhaps a little too seriously. She prides herself on being a friendly, helpful neighbour, but what she sees as kindness could just as easily be read as overbearing interference. She’s 

convinced something is off about Gary and Beth, but is she picking up on genuine red flags, or is her imagination running wild? Her husband, Warren, mostly humours her suspicions to keep the peace, but Kay becomes increasingly determined to get to the truth. 

 

Gary’s behaviour certainly raises suspicions—he’s domineering, often speaking for Beth and keeping a firm grip on their interactions—while Beth remains quiet and withdrawn, giving off ‘controlled wife’ vibes. Kay becomes convinced Beth is in danger, but as a reader, you’re left wondering whether Kay’s instincts are right or if she’s leaping to conclusions. Some of her assumptions had me cringing, but that only added to the intrigue. 

The suspense builds well throughout, and just when I thought I had things figured out, an unexpected twist turned everything on its head! While some moments felt a little far-fetched, and the tone occasionally leaned towards a cosy mystery rather than a full-blown psychological thriller, I was thoroughly entertained. 

 

Would I want Kay as my neighbour? Absolutely not. But did I enjoy the story? Definitely!