What do you think?
Rate this book
While You Were Gone
Trusting her was their first mistake. Firing her was their last.
Angie and Dan are thrilled about their last-minute getaway to the Scottish Highlands. All they need is someone to care for their pets and home while they're gone. When warm, reliable Martha Hunt steps in, she seems like the perfect house sitter.
But when the couple returns home early, their dream holiday turns into a chilling nightmare.
The house is in chaos and they have no choice but to fire Martha on the spot.
That should have ended it. Instead, it unleashes something far more sinister.
Because Martha isn’t done with them yet—and what she wants is far worse than revenge.
Perfect for fans of Frieda McFadden and Shari Lapena, this twist-filled psychological thriller will have you questioning who you let into your home—until the final, shocking page.
Angie and Dan are thrilled about their last-minute getaway to the Scottish Highlands. All they need is someone to care for their pets and home while they're gone. When warm, reliable Martha Hunt steps in, she seems like the perfect house sitter.
But when the couple returns home early, their dream holiday turns into a chilling nightmare.
The house is in chaos and they have no choice but to fire Martha on the spot.
That should have ended it. Instead, it unleashes something far more sinister.
Because Martha isn’t done with them yet—and what she wants is far worse than revenge.
Perfect for fans of Frieda McFadden and Shari Lapena, this twist-filled psychological thriller will have you questioning who you let into your home—until the final, shocking page.
251 pages, ebook
Published June 15, 2025
907 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
Mark Gillespie
51 books144 followersThese days, Mark Gillespie writes psychological thrillers, suspense and horror. Previously, between the years 2016-2020, he wrote a lot of apocalyptic/dystopian fiction.
Mark is a former professional musician from Glasgow, Scotland, who nowadays lives in Auckland, New Zealand with his wife Íde and a small menagerie of four-legged rescue creatures.
Favourite books: I am Legend, The Razor's Edge, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Body (Stephen King), I'll Be Gone in the Dark, Trainspotting...
Favourite films: Jaws, Ikiru, The Invitation, Vertigo, The Thing, Eyes Without a Face, Seven Samurai, The Wicker Man...
You can find him on Facebook as Mark Gillespie's Writing Stuff. He's also on Twitter as MarkG_Author.
Website: www.markgillespieauthor.com
Mark is a former professional musician from Glasgow, Scotland, who nowadays lives in Auckland, New Zealand with his wife Íde and a small menagerie of four-legged rescue creatures.
Favourite books: I am Legend, The Razor's Edge, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Body (Stephen King), I'll Be Gone in the Dark, Trainspotting...
Favourite films: Jaws, Ikiru, The Invitation, Vertigo, The Thing, Eyes Without a Face, Seven Samurai, The Wicker Man...
You can find him on Facebook as Mark Gillespie's Writing Stuff. He's also on Twitter as MarkG_Author.
Website: www.markgillespieauthor.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
June 8, 2025
This is a quick read that keeps the anxiety high with tension and foreboding. A constant feeling of unease is woven throughout the story until the final moment. Many people can relate to this story. Leaving your most precious, loved fur babies in the hands of a stranger can be unsettling and a cause of worry. Angie is relatable because of her reaction and mindset. Not trusting your intuition and putting doubt aside may be a risky decision. Is Angie intuitive or simply seeing things that are not there? This is the major question as mysterious events occur triggering suspicion and fear. My concern for Angie increased until the jaw-dropping conclusion. Thank you Booksprout and Inkubator Books for my copy.
June 24, 2025
While You Were Gone by Mark Gillespie, Angie and Dan live and Work in Glasgow Scotland every year on November 15, she goes a little bit crazy as it is the anniversary of her mom‘s traumatic death that she witnessed as a seven-year-old. this November 15 however Dan convinces her to go up to Glencoe for a week to get her mind off of everything but first they have to hire a house sitter. This is how they meet Martha Hunt who they hire on short notice, but thankfully she has great reviews the problem starts when Dan gets sick and they return only to find their pets missing their house trash and Martha on the sofa watching TV in the nude. They quickly ask her to leave and soon get her fired from her housesitting job but Angie and Dan will not have the last word. this is when things go missing strange things start happening from Angie being pushed down in the city center to her car being vandalized and Martha provoking Angie’s fear of fire. despite Angie keeping most of it from Dan eventually things reach a life or death momentum and someone’s life is on the line but who’s? As for thrillers this was absolutely thrilling I did find her keeping everything from Dan is something popular with authors but something I’m getting so sick of reading about because normal people don’t do that. Then again if these were normal people I probably wouldn’t be reading the book. Having said that I do recommend it if you love fun popcorn thrillers and only want to be entertain this is a great book to serve that purpose I enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it. #BookSprout, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,
June 16, 2025
I was torn between giving 2 or 3 stars on this one, but ultimately there was too much wrong with the plot and characters to go with a 3.
Dan and Angie hire an oddball house sitter Martha. Upon their early return they find their home in disarray and fire her. Things turn malicious and ugly from that point on.
Angie was hard to like. She is overwhelmed each year on Nov 15 and the days surrounding it; over 30 years ago she witnessed something that causes her to barely function on the anniversary of this traumatic event. Okkkkk so somehow this translates to her making continuous terrible decisions and not telling her partner what’s actually going on.
Martha’s motivations are somewhat explained, but sooo ridiculous. I’m supposed to believe she has the time and energy to stalk and harass strangers and still pay the bills?
I’m sorry, but both these female characters are poorly written and are not believable. Hopefully the author consults more women on how we would think/react/etc in tense situations when writing his next story.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Inkubator books for a copy.
Dan and Angie hire an oddball house sitter Martha. Upon their early return they find their home in disarray and fire her. Things turn malicious and ugly from that point on.
Angie was hard to like. She is overwhelmed each year on Nov 15 and the days surrounding it; over 30 years ago she witnessed something that causes her to barely function on the anniversary of this traumatic event. Okkkkk so somehow this translates to her making continuous terrible decisions and not telling her partner what’s actually going on.
Martha’s motivations are somewhat explained, but sooo ridiculous. I’m supposed to believe she has the time and energy to stalk and harass strangers and still pay the bills?
I’m sorry, but both these female characters are poorly written and are not believable. Hopefully the author consults more women on how we would think/react/etc in tense situations when writing his next story.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Inkubator books for a copy.
August 25, 2025
An excellent cast of characters in this one. The relatable you'll be cheering for and the ones you'll love to hate. Raw, dark revenge. An intense read with chaos you won't see coming.
June 23, 2025
"I'll take good care of things. Don't worry"
Every November, the anniversary of her mother's horrific death, Angie falls apart. This year, her partner says they've been invited away to catch up with some of his old school friends. It is a last minute trip and Angie is worried about getting a good pet sitter at short notice. They meet Martha through a reputable pet sitting service and, while extremely quirky, the pets love her. Plus, the insane amount of pictures Angie receives certainly seems to suggest everything is going well.
When their trip is cut short, they return home and all is certainly not well!! The house is in chaos and Martha, the pet sitter, is passed out on the sofa with a bottle of wine.
From here on, Angie starts to notice a few small things, items in the house not where she left them. The sound of someone in the house. Doors left unlocked. Thinking she is just becoming forgetful due to the stress, she tries to ignore it. Then things happen which she cannot ignore. This begins her nightmare.
This is certainly a high adrenaline thriller. I love Martha's character. A really complex nutjob to say the least. Really fast paced and the paranoia builds throughout. The mix of character Vs plot driven aspects of this are well balanced and really drive the story. I did not want to put this one down!!
Every November, the anniversary of her mother's horrific death, Angie falls apart. This year, her partner says they've been invited away to catch up with some of his old school friends. It is a last minute trip and Angie is worried about getting a good pet sitter at short notice. They meet Martha through a reputable pet sitting service and, while extremely quirky, the pets love her. Plus, the insane amount of pictures Angie receives certainly seems to suggest everything is going well.
When their trip is cut short, they return home and all is certainly not well!! The house is in chaos and Martha, the pet sitter, is passed out on the sofa with a bottle of wine.
From here on, Angie starts to notice a few small things, items in the house not where she left them. The sound of someone in the house. Doors left unlocked. Thinking she is just becoming forgetful due to the stress, she tries to ignore it. Then things happen which she cannot ignore. This begins her nightmare.
This is certainly a high adrenaline thriller. I love Martha's character. A really complex nutjob to say the least. Really fast paced and the paranoia builds throughout. The mix of character Vs plot driven aspects of this are well balanced and really drive the story. I did not want to put this one down!!
June 23, 2025
While You Were Gone is an atmospheric, psychological thriller that takes place in Scotland.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it kept me hooked from start to finish. I wanted to know what happened next and I could not put it down.
I managed to read this really quickly because it was fast paced and keeps you on edge. Unease was definitely woven throughout the whole story. The pacing makes the drama more intense.
It definitely makes me think twice about hiring a house sitter at any point 👀
I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Overall, I give this 5 stars!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it kept me hooked from start to finish. I wanted to know what happened next and I could not put it down.
I managed to read this really quickly because it was fast paced and keeps you on edge. Unease was definitely woven throughout the whole story. The pacing makes the drama more intense.
It definitely makes me think twice about hiring a house sitter at any point 👀
I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Overall, I give this 5 stars!
October 24, 2025
Usually the books that I finish quickest are books I enjoy the least & this one does not buck the trend.
Angie & Dan require a house sitter, they get Martha, she’s psycho & she seeks revenge on Angie. That’s it, plain, simple, boring. Not worth it
Angie & Dan require a house sitter, they get Martha, she’s psycho & she seeks revenge on Angie. That’s it, plain, simple, boring. Not worth it
June 16, 2025
WHILE YOU WERE GONE BY MARK GILLESPIE.
4 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
This was a quick and easy read for me.
I enjoyed the flow of it and I was very Intrigued.
I thought the ending on this book was great aswel.
Really really looking forward to picking up another Mark Gillespie book
4 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
This was a quick and easy read for me.
I enjoyed the flow of it and I was very Intrigued.
I thought the ending on this book was great aswel.
Really really looking forward to picking up another Mark Gillespie book
August 2, 2025
I wanted to like this more than I did. I found the storyline ridiculous and wasn't invested in the characters.
The flashbacks to a 7 year old didn't feel believable. And I'm sure the main character said she'd given up smoking years earlier despite later explaining a fear of flames.
The flashbacks to a 7 year old didn't feel believable. And I'm sure the main character said she'd given up smoking years earlier despite later explaining a fear of flames.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2025
This book was incredibly unhinged, and honestly such an easy read. It felt like the perfect length, I find sometimes thrillers are dragged out a bit too much, but this wasn’t too short or too long. I did really enjoy this book, it had the right amount of tension and I was genuinely on the edge of my seat reading. However, as much as I wanted to like Angie, I just couldn’t. I just think her character was too stereotypical ‘hysterical woman’ and I really really just feel like there’s enough of that in fiction already.
I would still recommend this book though, I think it’d be especially good for when you’re in a reading slump (if thrillers are your thing), just because of its perfect length and tenseness. I read this whole thing in one sitting pretty much🤣
I would still recommend this book though, I think it’d be especially good for when you’re in a reading slump (if thrillers are your thing), just because of its perfect length and tenseness. I read this whole thing in one sitting pretty much🤣
June 25, 2025
I really enjoyed 🌟 🌟🌟🌟
What a fab book! I can easily see this being made into a film.
Fast paced, page turning, thriller of a book!!
Following the story of Angie and Dan, who go away to Scotland to meet with friends. Leaving the house and pets in the capable hands of Martha "The Pet Sitter"......or so they thought! Arriving home early, Martha has trashed the house and is drunk on the sofa. Promptly being fired, this should be the end - but it's just the beginning!!
One for thrill seekers. It will leave you looking behind your shoulder and never trusting a house sitter again.
Currently available on Kindle for 99p, or on Kindle Unlimited
What a fab book! I can easily see this being made into a film.
Fast paced, page turning, thriller of a book!!
Following the story of Angie and Dan, who go away to Scotland to meet with friends. Leaving the house and pets in the capable hands of Martha "The Pet Sitter"......or so they thought! Arriving home early, Martha has trashed the house and is drunk on the sofa. Promptly being fired, this should be the end - but it's just the beginning!!
One for thrill seekers. It will leave you looking behind your shoulder and never trusting a house sitter again.
Currently available on Kindle for 99p, or on Kindle Unlimited
June 26, 2025
A quick read because I couldn’t put it down!
It’s like your worse nightmare someone in your house looking after your house and pets when you’re away.
But do you trust this rather odd person?
In a nutshell hell no!
You will certainly think twice before hiring a house sitter after this book 😂
Full of tension and suspense, I don’t think I blinked for quite some time reading this. Oh dear Martha, she gave me single white female vibes (a film that will put you off having a housemate 😂)
Great psychological thriller loved it 😃
It’s like your worse nightmare someone in your house looking after your house and pets when you’re away.
But do you trust this rather odd person?
In a nutshell hell no!
You will certainly think twice before hiring a house sitter after this book 😂
Full of tension and suspense, I don’t think I blinked for quite some time reading this. Oh dear Martha, she gave me single white female vibes (a film that will put you off having a housemate 😂)
Great psychological thriller loved it 😃
June 2, 2025
I read this thriller from start to finish without stopping. It was a very good read that kept me intrigued and looking for the outcome of how Angie and Dan would handle Martha. The ending was perfect, the author did a great job with development of the characters. There was no fluff added in to fill the pages and it's been one of the better books I've read in a long time. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me the chance to read this before publication.
June 22, 2025
Weird stalker vibes with this. I can't see any rhyme or reason why the house-sitter treats Angie's house the way she does but it's the beginning of a nightmare for Angie.
I think I might have called the police sooner but I'm not sure it would have done much good.
There's an even paced to this as Angie tries to go on with her life and cope with her anniversary as well as trying to find her way into getting her work out there. Martha's a great inspiration for that I'm sure. Don't they say "write what you know"? Think I'd be popping that down and out there if I'd had the same experience
I think I might have called the police sooner but I'm not sure it would have done much good.
There's an even paced to this as Angie tries to go on with her life and cope with her anniversary as well as trying to find her way into getting her work out there. Martha's a great inspiration for that I'm sure. Don't they say "write what you know"? Think I'd be popping that down and out there if I'd had the same experience
June 27, 2025
First of all this cover is amazing. It freaks you out but also draws you in. I also love any book set in Scotland.
Every year on 15th November, Angie goes a bit crazy with her mum’s anniversary. This year Dan suggests a break away. This means they need someone to look after their fur babies. Enter Martha.
From the moment, Martha is mentioned all sorts of alarm bings are ringing for me. She seems too good to be good and boy is that the case.
I was so captivated by this book. I was desperate to see what happened and how unhinged Martha would be. I read this book very quickly, I just couldn’t put it down.
The twists and turns in this book were so unexpected. I really enjoyed this book and will be looking out for more books by Mark Gillespie.
I was gifted a free copy in exchange for an honest review by zooloobooktours
Every year on 15th November, Angie goes a bit crazy with her mum’s anniversary. This year Dan suggests a break away. This means they need someone to look after their fur babies. Enter Martha.
From the moment, Martha is mentioned all sorts of alarm bings are ringing for me. She seems too good to be good and boy is that the case.
I was so captivated by this book. I was desperate to see what happened and how unhinged Martha would be. I read this book very quickly, I just couldn’t put it down.
The twists and turns in this book were so unexpected. I really enjoyed this book and will be looking out for more books by Mark Gillespie.
I was gifted a free copy in exchange for an honest review by zooloobooktours
June 20, 2025
I read all of this author’s books and am part of his FB group. He is a kind person.
Now, if he would just learn that the use of “farther” is misused as “further”. Drives me crazy-11 times!
Now, if he would just learn that the use of “farther” is misused as “further”. Drives me crazy-11 times!
June 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for allowing me to read and review While You Were Gone by Mark Gillespie.
Honestly, I almost DNFed this book at the prologue. It felt like the Angie, the main character, was explaining too much. Another part that made me want to DNF was when Angie didn’t tell Dan about the Martha incident after her car was vandalized. Can we stop with the “keeping things from others” trope? It doesn’t make for a stronger FMC.
I’m somewhat happy that I pushed through because it ended up being an entertaining read, and I finished it in about 24 hours.
Honestly, I almost DNFed this book at the prologue. It felt like the Angie, the main character, was explaining too much. Another part that made me want to DNF was when Angie didn’t tell Dan about the Martha incident after her car was vandalized. Can we stop with the “keeping things from others” trope? It doesn’t make for a stronger FMC.
I’m somewhat happy that I pushed through because it ended up being an entertaining read, and I finished it in about 24 hours.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2025
Holy moly, fellow book lovers! I just finished Mark Gillespie's "While You Were Gone" and let me tell you – I'm now side-eyeing every delivery person who comes to my door. This psychological thriller has officially made me paranoid about letting strangers into my personal space, and honestly? I'm kind of here for it.
The premise is deliciously simple yet terrifying: Angie and Dan hire what seems like the perfect house-sitter, Martha Hunt, to watch their home and pets while they vacation in the Scottish Highlands. Martha's got stellar reviews, sounds absolutely lovely, and seems like a dream come true. But when the couple returns early due to Dan's illness, they walk into their worst nightmare – house trashed, Martha sprawled naked on their couch, and their beloved pets missing.
Can we talk about how this hits different when you have friends turning their homes into Airbnbs? I literally texted my bestie after reading this because she's doing exactly that, and now I'm low-key worried some psycho is going to trash her place. Thanks for the new anxiety, Mark Gillespie!
What starts as a simple firing-and-moving-on situation quickly spirals when Martha decides Angie is her new obsession. And boy oh boy, does this woman know how to hold a grudge! As Angie digs deeper into Martha's past, she uncovers a trail of destruction that would make your true crime podcast hosts weep with joy.
Here's what really got under my skin though – and I've noticed this pattern in SO many thrillers lately – poor Angie becomes the "hysterical woman" nobody believes while her husband Dan gets to play the reasonable, level-headed one. It's giving major "gaslight, gatekeep, girlboss" energy, except the girlboss is actually the villain, and our heroine Angie is fighting for her sanity while everyone treats her like she's overreacting. Sound familiar, ladies?
Mark Gillespie does a fantastic job building tension that had me physically checking my door locks multiple times. The pacing is relentless, and just when you think you've got Martha figured out, another twisted layer gets peeled back. The climax involving flames and... well, let's just say someone doesn't make it out alive... is absolutely bonkers in the best way possible.
Fair warning: this book will make you extremely suspicious of house-sitters, dog-walkers, and basically anyone you've ever given keys to. I'm genuinely considering getting one of those fancy doorbell cameras now, which my husband finds hilarious.
"While You Were Gone" is a solid thriller that'll keep you glued to the pages while simultaneously making you want to install seventeen new security systems. Perfect for anyone who enjoys their psychological suspense with a side of "never trusting strangers again."
Now excuse me while I go change all my locks...
The premise is deliciously simple yet terrifying: Angie and Dan hire what seems like the perfect house-sitter, Martha Hunt, to watch their home and pets while they vacation in the Scottish Highlands. Martha's got stellar reviews, sounds absolutely lovely, and seems like a dream come true. But when the couple returns early due to Dan's illness, they walk into their worst nightmare – house trashed, Martha sprawled naked on their couch, and their beloved pets missing.
Can we talk about how this hits different when you have friends turning their homes into Airbnbs? I literally texted my bestie after reading this because she's doing exactly that, and now I'm low-key worried some psycho is going to trash her place. Thanks for the new anxiety, Mark Gillespie!
What starts as a simple firing-and-moving-on situation quickly spirals when Martha decides Angie is her new obsession. And boy oh boy, does this woman know how to hold a grudge! As Angie digs deeper into Martha's past, she uncovers a trail of destruction that would make your true crime podcast hosts weep with joy.
Here's what really got under my skin though – and I've noticed this pattern in SO many thrillers lately – poor Angie becomes the "hysterical woman" nobody believes while her husband Dan gets to play the reasonable, level-headed one. It's giving major "gaslight, gatekeep, girlboss" energy, except the girlboss is actually the villain, and our heroine Angie is fighting for her sanity while everyone treats her like she's overreacting. Sound familiar, ladies?
Mark Gillespie does a fantastic job building tension that had me physically checking my door locks multiple times. The pacing is relentless, and just when you think you've got Martha figured out, another twisted layer gets peeled back. The climax involving flames and... well, let's just say someone doesn't make it out alive... is absolutely bonkers in the best way possible.
Fair warning: this book will make you extremely suspicious of house-sitters, dog-walkers, and basically anyone you've ever given keys to. I'm genuinely considering getting one of those fancy doorbell cameras now, which my husband finds hilarious.
"While You Were Gone" is a solid thriller that'll keep you glued to the pages while simultaneously making you want to install seventeen new security systems. Perfect for anyone who enjoys their psychological suspense with a side of "never trusting strangers again."
Now excuse me while I go change all my locks...
October 30, 2025
📚While You Were Gone
✍🏻Mark Gillespie
Blurb:
Trusting her was their first mistake. Firing her was their last.
Angie and Dan are thrilled about their last-minute getaway to the Scottish Highlands. All they need is someone to care for their pets and home while they're gone. When warm, reliable Martha Hunt steps in, she seems like the perfect house sitter.
But when the couple returns home early, their dream holiday turns into a chilling nightmare.
The house is in chaos and they have no choice but to fire Martha on the spot.
That should have ended it. Instead, it unleashes something far more sinister.
Because Martha isn’t done with them yet—and what she wants is far worse than revenge.
Perfect for fans of Frieda McFadden and Shari Lapena, this twist-filled psychological thriller will have you questioning who you let into your home—until the final, shocking page.
My Thoughts:
This was a lot to unpack, but thoroughly enjoyable. Mark Gillespie is high on my list of must read thriller authors. Angie and Dan are looking forward to a last minute getaway, but with animals they have to find a housesitter. Enter Martha, a quirky woman who is willing to take the last minute job. Angie and Dan feel a bit unsure, but figure they're just being paranoid. Dan is suffering from a cough that seems to be getting worse, so instead of risking getting their friends sick they decide to come back home unannounced. To their shock, the house is a disaster and animals outside with a naked Martha asleep on the couch. Angie demands she leave immediately and reports her to the house-sitting service and costs Martha her job. Thinking this will be the last they hear from Marth is a big mistake. I really enjoyed this and just when you think you've reached the basement of Martha's crazy, you find out there's a sub-basement.
I would recommend to those who love psychological thrillers
Thanks NetGalley, Inkubator Books and Auther Mark Gillespie for the coimplimentary ARC. I am leaving a voluntary review
#NetGalley
#InkubatorBooks
#MarkGillespie
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Mark Gillespie
Blurb:
Trusting her was their first mistake. Firing her was their last.
Angie and Dan are thrilled about their last-minute getaway to the Scottish Highlands. All they need is someone to care for their pets and home while they're gone. When warm, reliable Martha Hunt steps in, she seems like the perfect house sitter.
But when the couple returns home early, their dream holiday turns into a chilling nightmare.
The house is in chaos and they have no choice but to fire Martha on the spot.
That should have ended it. Instead, it unleashes something far more sinister.
Because Martha isn’t done with them yet—and what she wants is far worse than revenge.
Perfect for fans of Frieda McFadden and Shari Lapena, this twist-filled psychological thriller will have you questioning who you let into your home—until the final, shocking page.
My Thoughts:
This was a lot to unpack, but thoroughly enjoyable. Mark Gillespie is high on my list of must read thriller authors. Angie and Dan are looking forward to a last minute getaway, but with animals they have to find a housesitter. Enter Martha, a quirky woman who is willing to take the last minute job. Angie and Dan feel a bit unsure, but figure they're just being paranoid. Dan is suffering from a cough that seems to be getting worse, so instead of risking getting their friends sick they decide to come back home unannounced. To their shock, the house is a disaster and animals outside with a naked Martha asleep on the couch. Angie demands she leave immediately and reports her to the house-sitting service and costs Martha her job. Thinking this will be the last they hear from Marth is a big mistake. I really enjoyed this and just when you think you've reached the basement of Martha's crazy, you find out there's a sub-basement.
I would recommend to those who love psychological thrillers
Thanks NetGalley, Inkubator Books and Auther Mark Gillespie for the coimplimentary ARC. I am leaving a voluntary review
#NetGalley
#InkubatorBooks
#MarkGillespie
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 15, 2025
When Angie and Dan book a last minute trip to the Scottish Highlands, they are excited to just pack up and go. The one thing they need though is someone to take care of their pets and watch over the house while they are gone. When they meet Martha Hunt, she seems to be the perfect candidate for the job. But when Angie and Dan are forced to abandon their trip early due to illness, what they find waiting at home is nothing short of a nightmare. The house is absolutely trashed, Martha is passed out naked on the couch, and their pets are missing. With no choice but to report Martha to her job and fire her, Angie and Dan try to pick up the pieces. But they have no clue just how unhinged Martha really is and she wants something worse than revenge.
Remind me never to hire someone to take care of my house or my pets without running a full background check on them! With a relentless pace and building tension, this was a great domestic thriller! A highlight of the story is that it doesn't rely only on jaw dropping twists but rather that creeping dread feeling you get from trying to figure out the motivations of the characters. I do feel like you should suspend your disbelief a little bit but other than that I definitely would recommend this for fans of Theo Baxter, Daniel Hurst, and Shari Lapena!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mark Gillespie, and Inkubator Books for this ARC! Publication date is June 15th 2025.
Remind me never to hire someone to take care of my house or my pets without running a full background check on them! With a relentless pace and building tension, this was a great domestic thriller! A highlight of the story is that it doesn't rely only on jaw dropping twists but rather that creeping dread feeling you get from trying to figure out the motivations of the characters. I do feel like you should suspend your disbelief a little bit but other than that I definitely would recommend this for fans of Theo Baxter, Daniel Hurst, and Shari Lapena!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mark Gillespie, and Inkubator Books for this ARC! Publication date is June 15th 2025.
June 17, 2025
While You Were Gone by Mark Gillespie was a great quick and easy read that just flowed perfectly. I ended up reading this book in one sitting which was great, especially as it was the first book I have read by from this author.
It was full of great twists and turns throughout that will have you. hooked and turning the pages over quickly especially as I wanted to find out more about Martha and who was she? She was hiding something but what?
Angie and Dan were on their way to the Scottish Highlands and this was a last minute getaway for both of them. They have a problem! they need someone to care for their beloved pets and their beautiful home while they are gone.
Then, Martha Hunt steps in to help, and she seems to be just perfect for the job. They had to say Yes to her!
When, Angie and Dan returns home early from their dream holiday everything turns into a chilling nightmare.
They find their beautiful home is in chaos and they have no choice to fire Martha on the spot.
This should be the end of everything. . . . But it is just the beginning!
Because lovely Martha who appeared to be perfect, hasn't finished with them yet! She has more up her sleeve!
But, Why them. . . . . What have they ever done to her?
All Martha wants is far worse than Revenge!
WoW. . . . I highly recommend this book.
Big Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Inkubator books for my ARC
It was full of great twists and turns throughout that will have you. hooked and turning the pages over quickly especially as I wanted to find out more about Martha and who was she? She was hiding something but what?
Angie and Dan were on their way to the Scottish Highlands and this was a last minute getaway for both of them. They have a problem! they need someone to care for their beloved pets and their beautiful home while they are gone.
Then, Martha Hunt steps in to help, and she seems to be just perfect for the job. They had to say Yes to her!
When, Angie and Dan returns home early from their dream holiday everything turns into a chilling nightmare.
They find their beautiful home is in chaos and they have no choice to fire Martha on the spot.
This should be the end of everything. . . . But it is just the beginning!
Because lovely Martha who appeared to be perfect, hasn't finished with them yet! She has more up her sleeve!
But, Why them. . . . . What have they ever done to her?
All Martha wants is far worse than Revenge!
WoW. . . . I highly recommend this book.
Big Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Inkubator books for my ARC
July 2, 2025
This was my fourth read by this author and having loved the other books, I felt quite sure that this was going to make for another great read.
In actual fact, I think this has been my favourite.... so far!
I was totally intrigued by this premise as I would never hire someone to look after my house and pets if away, I'd always find a friend, someone I know and trust already - but I do know that this is a popular trend right now and in fact, as I was reading this, my daughter was doing this exact thing - well obviously just the house/dog sitting!!
Having this connection instantly intrigued me and I was drawn into this read from the first few pages.
After hiring Martha to house sit, when Angie and Dan return from their break early, they discover that maybe Martha was not the best choice after all - firing her on the spot, little do they know that this is only the beginning .....
I was pretty much on edge for the whole of this read.
I wasn't comfortable with Martha from the start, just bad vibes - and I couldn't help thinking that this was going to be a mistake!
I absolutely raced through this, needing to know how on earth this would play out and feeling really sorry for Angie and Dan.
They were so down to earth and relatable and it just showed how easily this sort of thing could happen to anyone.
I felt uncomfortable the whole time as the tension built and with the creepy atmosphere set early on, I feel like I didn't even blink for half the book!
My biggest fear was for the pets! I was dreading so much and hoping that the author wouldn't do anything drastic!
Such a fast-paced read and a other to add to my list of auto-buy authors I think!
This had everything I love in a psychological thriller read and I can't wait for my next one....
In actual fact, I think this has been my favourite.... so far!
I was totally intrigued by this premise as I would never hire someone to look after my house and pets if away, I'd always find a friend, someone I know and trust already - but I do know that this is a popular trend right now and in fact, as I was reading this, my daughter was doing this exact thing - well obviously just the house/dog sitting!!
Having this connection instantly intrigued me and I was drawn into this read from the first few pages.
After hiring Martha to house sit, when Angie and Dan return from their break early, they discover that maybe Martha was not the best choice after all - firing her on the spot, little do they know that this is only the beginning .....
I was pretty much on edge for the whole of this read.
I wasn't comfortable with Martha from the start, just bad vibes - and I couldn't help thinking that this was going to be a mistake!
I absolutely raced through this, needing to know how on earth this would play out and feeling really sorry for Angie and Dan.
They were so down to earth and relatable and it just showed how easily this sort of thing could happen to anyone.
I felt uncomfortable the whole time as the tension built and with the creepy atmosphere set early on, I feel like I didn't even blink for half the book!
My biggest fear was for the pets! I was dreading so much and hoping that the author wouldn't do anything drastic!
Such a fast-paced read and a other to add to my list of auto-buy authors I think!
This had everything I love in a psychological thriller read and I can't wait for my next one....
June 12, 2025
Mark Gillespie delivers a chilling and unforgettable tale in While You Were Gone, a suspenseful story that taps into the everyday fear of leaving your home—and your pets—in someone else’s care. What starts as a seemingly ordinary arrangement quickly spirals into a sinister descent, anchored by a deeply unsettling antagonist who will linger in readers’ minds long after the final page.
Gillespie expertly builds tension, weaving psychological unease into every chapter. The pacing is sharp, the atmosphere claustrophobic, and the emotional stakes high—particularly for anyone who’s ever trusted a stranger with something precious. The narrative doesn’t rely on gore or shock for impact; instead, it’s the creeping dread and subtle unraveling of reality that make this story so effective.
At the heart of it is a disturbingly memorable character whose actions are as unpredictable as they are horrifying. Gillespie’s ability to draw such a vivid portrait of madness and obsession is a testament to his skill as a thriller writer.
While You Were Gone is a perfectly crafted psychological thriller that preys on real-world anxieties and turns them into a nightmare. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the most terrifying monsters are the ones we willingly let through the front door.
Gillespie expertly builds tension, weaving psychological unease into every chapter. The pacing is sharp, the atmosphere claustrophobic, and the emotional stakes high—particularly for anyone who’s ever trusted a stranger with something precious. The narrative doesn’t rely on gore or shock for impact; instead, it’s the creeping dread and subtle unraveling of reality that make this story so effective.
At the heart of it is a disturbingly memorable character whose actions are as unpredictable as they are horrifying. Gillespie’s ability to draw such a vivid portrait of madness and obsession is a testament to his skill as a thriller writer.
While You Were Gone is a perfectly crafted psychological thriller that preys on real-world anxieties and turns them into a nightmare. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the most terrifying monsters are the ones we willingly let through the front door.
June 20, 2025
While you were Gone is a twisty, psychological thriller where you know who it is right from the beginning, but you don't know how twisted they are and how far they are willing to go. Dan and Angie need a house/pet sitter. They find Martha through a website, interview her and thinks she's a great fit. But when Dan gets sick on the trip and they decide to head home early, they find their house trashed and Martha sprawled out on their sofa in the nude. Angie loses it, as she should and reports Martha, getting her fired from the company she was working for. And now, Martha is pissed. She wasn't revenge and she's out to get it, no matter what it takes. The story was great and it flowed well. Angie is sort of an unreliable character because this time of the year is the anniversary of the death of her mother, a traumatic death, which Angie witnessed and has a lot of guilt over. I loved how that played into what was going on because she didn't know if the things she was experiencing was because of the anniversary being upon her, or if she's right in suspecting Martha. The story is fast paced and takes a couple of turns. Enjoyable story.
June 6, 2025
I enjoyed the first Mark Gillespie psych thriller I read a while back called "The Lost Girl." This genre seems to be his forte, so I was pleased to get a chance to preview "While You Were Gone." In this one, a very creepy pet sitter causes the protagonist, struggling through her mom's death anniversary already, to go through seven levels of mental anguish after coming home for a get away early to find the house in severe disarray and her mementos missing.
When it seems this looney tune has finally backed off for good after numerous incidents prove not to be coincidences, the climax confirms she isn't one to give up holding a grudge until the very end when justice is served.
Overall, Gillespie did a fine job letting us in on the protagonist's state of mind, her questioning of her own sanity, and painting the picture of a psycho the likes of we all worry may someday intrude on our own life if we're unlucky.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When it seems this looney tune has finally backed off for good after numerous incidents prove not to be coincidences, the climax confirms she isn't one to give up holding a grudge until the very end when justice is served.
Overall, Gillespie did a fine job letting us in on the protagonist's state of mind, her questioning of her own sanity, and painting the picture of a psycho the likes of we all worry may someday intrude on our own life if we're unlucky.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2025
"What would you do if you were stalked and hunted down after rejecting a house sitter??".
This is the predicament facing Angie after her and her husband Dan are forced to fire their house and pet sitter (known as Martha Hunt) upon discovering their home in a shambles after cutting short a much needed holiday due to extenuating circumstances.
Martha Hunt (whose real name is Rita), sets out on a rage fueled revenge after feeling rejected and treated badly by Angie to the point of pretending to be someone close to Angie from her past before going to exact her revenge. However not everything goes as planned.
This story had me gripped from start to finish with a breakneck plot, unique characters with differing personalities and an ending that left me wondering if it really was all over for Angie (if she had indeed seen the end of mad, sinister Martha).
It was my first foray into Mark Gillespie's writing and it certainly wont be my last.
Thankyou to Net galley and Inkubator Books for the arc of this story.
This is the predicament facing Angie after her and her husband Dan are forced to fire their house and pet sitter (known as Martha Hunt) upon discovering their home in a shambles after cutting short a much needed holiday due to extenuating circumstances.
Martha Hunt (whose real name is Rita), sets out on a rage fueled revenge after feeling rejected and treated badly by Angie to the point of pretending to be someone close to Angie from her past before going to exact her revenge. However not everything goes as planned.
This story had me gripped from start to finish with a breakneck plot, unique characters with differing personalities and an ending that left me wondering if it really was all over for Angie (if she had indeed seen the end of mad, sinister Martha).
It was my first foray into Mark Gillespie's writing and it certainly wont be my last.
Thankyou to Net galley and Inkubator Books for the arc of this story.
June 17, 2025
Do you trust the sitter
Angie & Dan have a busy life, a cat and a dog, and they work different schedules. When they talk about getting away for awhile, they have to have someone stay with Brogan and Billie Jean. Being the first time to get an in-home sitter, they went thru an agency to find a vetted person, met her and asked some questions, then showed her the things to do. Sounds right, right?
For many of us, our pets are called Fur-Babies for a reason; they are part of the family, and they want to be treated as such. They find that Marth fits the bill, and off they go!
One thing leads to another, and they go home early. What they find, and where this story goes, completely baffled me! It was way more than a lot of dirty dishes.
Thank you, Mark Gillespie, for a great story that brings our thinking back.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Angie & Dan have a busy life, a cat and a dog, and they work different schedules. When they talk about getting away for awhile, they have to have someone stay with Brogan and Billie Jean. Being the first time to get an in-home sitter, they went thru an agency to find a vetted person, met her and asked some questions, then showed her the things to do. Sounds right, right?
For many of us, our pets are called Fur-Babies for a reason; they are part of the family, and they want to be treated as such. They find that Marth fits the bill, and off they go!
One thing leads to another, and they go home early. What they find, and where this story goes, completely baffled me! It was way more than a lot of dirty dishes.
Thank you, Mark Gillespie, for a great story that brings our thinking back.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
June 25, 2025
Things start easy enough when Angie and Dan decide to employ a house sitter before going away at short notice. But when Dan falls ill and they return early, they soon discover what kind of mistake they made by hiring Martha. From that moment on I was completely hooked as the woman they hired, trusting her to look after their home and pets begins her plan of revenge against the people who fired her, particularly fixating on Angie. I found myself rapidly turning the pages as Angie refuses to back down, determined to not be a victim, but at times, when I learnt more about Martha I felt fearful for Angie’s safety and life. The book is split into two parts and although I started to relax a bit by part two, I knew the story wasn’t over yet. I just didn’t know how it would end. The tension rapidly built up again as I read late into the night to reach the thrilling climax.
This is another great book by Mark and I can’t wait to see what he has next for me.
This is another great book by Mark and I can’t wait to see what he has next for me.
June 22, 2025
As soon as I saw that Mark Gillespie has a new book out, I knew I had to read this one. I remember reading his Fool Me Once a while ago, and I was seriously obsessed.
This one was a slightly different kind of read, but still a good one. While Fool Me Once had a slight dystopic feel, this one was super down to earth and super realistic, because – yep, even if you aren’t aware of it, there are totally unhinged people out there, and they are unhinged for no good reason. So, this book goes all in when it comes to unhinged book crazies – you get it all.
If you are like me, and if you guard your private space, your home, and are already sus of anyone entering your house while you aren’t present: read at your own risk. I was here for it; I’m always here for it. But it might give your anxiety some boost, at least for a while.
This one was a slightly different kind of read, but still a good one. While Fool Me Once had a slight dystopic feel, this one was super down to earth and super realistic, because – yep, even if you aren’t aware of it, there are totally unhinged people out there, and they are unhinged for no good reason. So, this book goes all in when it comes to unhinged book crazies – you get it all.
If you are like me, and if you guard your private space, your home, and are already sus of anyone entering your house while you aren’t present: read at your own risk. I was here for it; I’m always here for it. But it might give your anxiety some boost, at least for a while.
May 28, 2025
Angie and Dan go away on vacation and hire Martha to house sit for them while they are gone. However, when they return, their home is in complete disarray. After Martha is let go, she is out to seek revenge on Angie and Dan. But what does Martha have against them? Why is she wanting to hurt the couple? Is Martha psychopath or is it something more sinister? You MUST read this thriller! I guarantee you will not be able to turn the pages fast enough and the ending will absolutely send the reader in a tail spin. My favorite character was Martha. I love some crazy in my characters and did she ever posses that characteristic! Very great read.
Thank you Mark G and NetGalley for the eArc. I can't wait to read more by this author!
Thank you Mark G and NetGalley for the eArc. I can't wait to read more by this author!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews