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Welcome to the Family: the brand-new and completely addictive psychological thriller from the acclaimed author
Not yet published
Expected 9 Apr 26Holiday with your in-laws can be murder . . .
Rosie Riley is nervously excited about meeting the Fraser family. She's head-over-heels for her boyfriend Theo and she hopes that spending a fortnight with the Frasers at their luxury Tuscan villa is a good sign of where their relationship is headed.
Fenna Fraser has been part of the family for years. She's always enjoyed the glam annual holiday, but this year she's especially tired with a new baby in tow and she fears her mother-in-law will be more critical than ever. No one is good enough for her sons.
It starts as the perfect family holiday.
It ends with one of these women arrested for murder.
Who is guilty? Who is the victim? And did they deserve it? . . .
Rosie Riley is nervously excited about meeting the Fraser family. She's head-over-heels for her boyfriend Theo and she hopes that spending a fortnight with the Frasers at their luxury Tuscan villa is a good sign of where their relationship is headed.
Fenna Fraser has been part of the family for years. She's always enjoyed the glam annual holiday, but this year she's especially tired with a new baby in tow and she fears her mother-in-law will be more critical than ever. No one is good enough for her sons.
It starts as the perfect family holiday.
It ends with one of these women arrested for murder.
Who is guilty? Who is the victim? And did they deserve it? . . .
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 9, 2026
89 people want to read
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I don't usually read thrillers anymore, life is too stressful nowadays, but I got roped into reading this one because of the Tuscany setting and the intriguing description. And at first, I kept thinking I had made a mistake and this was definitely not the book for me.
Indeed, life at La Speranza is tense from the get go. Rosie, the newcomer, is overly anxious about making a good first impression on her boyfriend's family. Meanwhile, Fenna's relationship with her mother-in-law (and her husband) is fraught to such a point that it almost made me DNF the book: their toxic behaviour was just described a bit too well and Fenna's inability to set up boundaries made me too uncomfortable.
However, realising that the main mystery was going to be based around the disappearance of a teenager fifteen years prior kept me going. Lots of characters had possible links to the case and I do like solving a good mystery. I was able to figure out most of the solution out quite a bit in advance, which I enjoyed.
The book, however, is not perfect. Some of the little details seem to have been put in to throw us off the sent and are not fully resolved. The ending feels a bit unfinished and focuses more on Fenna than Rosie (who we had started the book with and felt more like the main character to me). Some of the descriptions of Italian characters also felt quite stereotypical.
This was not helped by the narration of the audiobook. The narrator's various accents were not perfectly consistent throughout (especially in the beginning) and I would have appreciated having the book narrated by someone who spoke Italian. In this case, the Italian accent felt more like a trope than the genuine article - which could be justified in chapters written from Rosie's British point of view, certainly. But when Fenna is at the helm, as she is Italian, I would have preferred some more genuine Italian pronunciation, especially with names (the mispronunciation of the G in "Giovanni" just drove me batty).
As it is, I think I would have enjoyed the book more if I had read it in print, and this is reflected in my rating - but your mileage may vary.
[Copy obtained through Netgalley]
Indeed, life at La Speranza is tense from the get go. Rosie, the newcomer, is overly anxious about making a good first impression on her boyfriend's family. Meanwhile, Fenna's relationship with her mother-in-law (and her husband) is fraught to such a point that it almost made me DNF the book: their toxic behaviour was just described a bit too well and Fenna's inability to set up boundaries made me too uncomfortable.
However, realising that the main mystery was going to be based around the disappearance of a teenager fifteen years prior kept me going. Lots of characters had possible links to the case and I do like solving a good mystery. I was able to figure out most of the solution out quite a bit in advance, which I enjoyed.
The book, however, is not perfect. Some of the little details seem to have been put in to throw us off the sent and are not fully resolved. The ending feels a bit unfinished and focuses more on Fenna than Rosie (who we had started the book with and felt more like the main character to me). Some of the descriptions of Italian characters also felt quite stereotypical.
This was not helped by the narration of the audiobook. The narrator's various accents were not perfectly consistent throughout (especially in the beginning) and I would have appreciated having the book narrated by someone who spoke Italian. In this case, the Italian accent felt more like a trope than the genuine article - which could be justified in chapters written from Rosie's British point of view, certainly. But when Fenna is at the helm, as she is Italian, I would have preferred some more genuine Italian pronunciation, especially with names (the mispronunciation of the G in "Giovanni" just drove me batty).
As it is, I think I would have enjoyed the book more if I had read it in print, and this is reflected in my rating - but your mileage may vary.
[Copy obtained through Netgalley]
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rosie Riley is nervous but excited to be spending her first holiday with Theo at his family’s villa in Tuscany. It’s the first time she will meet his family, so let’s hope two weeks in their company will be a pleasure not an ordeal. Fenna is married to Theo’s brother Luke, who isn’t being as supportive as he could be with their new baby boy and in occupying their little daughter. She’s also finding her mother in law Marianne’s criticism of her parenting more than tiresome. Blue skies, a gorgeous setting and the simmering tension between several characters shattered by the arrest of one of them, potentially being charged with murder. Who is the victim? Who is being interrogated by the Italian police? Rosie and Fenna tell the story.
First of all, it’s hard to resist a book that is set in Tuscany, with the beautiful villa and its surroundings being a great backdrop and contrast to what goes on within. The characters are well depicted, a couple are very hard to like. There’s growing tension which at times is palpable and as the plot progresses, there are a few good twists.
Whilst the novel is an easy read, it’s also quite predictable and so some reveals are not much of a surprise. At times, there’s too much going on, some of which adds little to the plot. The pacing is inconsistent, it starts at a brisk pace but then slows at another 50% mark. After all the build up, the ending feels fortuitous.
Overall, this is probably a good one to keep you entertained whilst sunning yourself by the pool.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Headline, Mountain Leopard Press for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
First of all, it’s hard to resist a book that is set in Tuscany, with the beautiful villa and its surroundings being a great backdrop and contrast to what goes on within. The characters are well depicted, a couple are very hard to like. There’s growing tension which at times is palpable and as the plot progresses, there are a few good twists.
Whilst the novel is an easy read, it’s also quite predictable and so some reveals are not much of a surprise. At times, there’s too much going on, some of which adds little to the plot. The pacing is inconsistent, it starts at a brisk pace but then slows at another 50% mark. After all the build up, the ending feels fortuitous.
Overall, this is probably a good one to keep you entertained whilst sunning yourself by the pool.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Headline, Mountain Leopard Press for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Gripping!
What an introduction!! The prologue of “Welcome to the Family” begins with an unknown character being arrested for murder — and that was me done. I wasn’t putting it down.
We then move into what should be a glossy, enviable Tuscan holiday with the in-laws. Luxury villa, too much food, too much wine, too much forced togetherness. And that’s really where this book lives — in that uncomfortable space where everyone is technically being polite… but not really.
This is an easy book to sink into. The pacing moves quickly, and I found myself reading “just one more chapter” more than once. The tension isn’t dramatic or explosive; it’s more in the small moments — the comments that linger a bit too long, the looks that aren’t quite warm enough. It’s not just between family members either. There’s a sense that things are slightly off more generally.
Although set mainly in and around Tuscany, this felt much more like a psychological family drama than a sweeping destination thriller — which suited me. The setting is there, but it never overwhelms the story. The real focus is on relationships, and how fragile they can be when you put everyone in close quarters.
I did find myself changing my mind about who I trusted, which I always appreciate in this kind of story. No one feels entirely blameless. And no one feels completely beyond suspicion.
A tense, character-driven thriller about family dynamics, expectations, and what can happen when resentment is left to simmer for too long.
My thanks to NetGalley and Headline for the DRC of “Welcome to the Family” by Kate Gray.
Due to be published 9 April 2026.
What an introduction!! The prologue of “Welcome to the Family” begins with an unknown character being arrested for murder — and that was me done. I wasn’t putting it down.
We then move into what should be a glossy, enviable Tuscan holiday with the in-laws. Luxury villa, too much food, too much wine, too much forced togetherness. And that’s really where this book lives — in that uncomfortable space where everyone is technically being polite… but not really.
This is an easy book to sink into. The pacing moves quickly, and I found myself reading “just one more chapter” more than once. The tension isn’t dramatic or explosive; it’s more in the small moments — the comments that linger a bit too long, the looks that aren’t quite warm enough. It’s not just between family members either. There’s a sense that things are slightly off more generally.
Although set mainly in and around Tuscany, this felt much more like a psychological family drama than a sweeping destination thriller — which suited me. The setting is there, but it never overwhelms the story. The real focus is on relationships, and how fragile they can be when you put everyone in close quarters.
I did find myself changing my mind about who I trusted, which I always appreciate in this kind of story. No one feels entirely blameless. And no one feels completely beyond suspicion.
A tense, character-driven thriller about family dynamics, expectations, and what can happen when resentment is left to simmer for too long.
My thanks to NetGalley and Headline for the DRC of “Welcome to the Family” by Kate Gray.
Due to be published 9 April 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The prologue hooked me immediately. A woman being arrested for murder, and I was done. Not putting it down.
What follows is a Tuscan family holiday that should be glossy and enviable, and absolutely isn’t. Rosie is meeting her boyfriend’s family for the first time at their luxurious Italian villa, and from the moment she arrives, something feels off. Not dramatically off. Just… slightly. The looks that don’t quite land, the comments that hang in the air a beat too long. It’s that very particular discomfort of being an outsider inside someone else’s family dynamics, and Gray captures it well.
The story alternates between Rosie and Fenna, her boyfriend’s sister-in-law, whose quiet resentment of the family adds another layer of tension. The whole family are, frankly, pretty horrible, which sounds like a criticism but mostly isn’t. It keeps you on edge throughout.
The Tuscany setting works. Having spent time there, the descriptions felt accurate and genuinely evocative. I didn’t need the heat mentioned quite so relentlessly though. Italy in August is hot. We get it.
The ending is where it stumbles. It felt rushed, and there’s a reveal in the final pages that felt unnecessary, like the author didn’t quite trust the story she’d already told. With 17 minutes of reading time left, I still didn’t know “who’d dun it”. That’s too much weight for too little space.
What kept me reading was not knowing who to trust, including Rosie herself. No one is entirely blameless, and that ambiguity is where the book is at its best.
A gripping, character-driven thriller. Not flawless, but absolutely worth your time.
ARC received with thanks via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What follows is a Tuscan family holiday that should be glossy and enviable, and absolutely isn’t. Rosie is meeting her boyfriend’s family for the first time at their luxurious Italian villa, and from the moment she arrives, something feels off. Not dramatically off. Just… slightly. The looks that don’t quite land, the comments that hang in the air a beat too long. It’s that very particular discomfort of being an outsider inside someone else’s family dynamics, and Gray captures it well.
The story alternates between Rosie and Fenna, her boyfriend’s sister-in-law, whose quiet resentment of the family adds another layer of tension. The whole family are, frankly, pretty horrible, which sounds like a criticism but mostly isn’t. It keeps you on edge throughout.
The Tuscany setting works. Having spent time there, the descriptions felt accurate and genuinely evocative. I didn’t need the heat mentioned quite so relentlessly though. Italy in August is hot. We get it.
The ending is where it stumbles. It felt rushed, and there’s a reveal in the final pages that felt unnecessary, like the author didn’t quite trust the story she’d already told. With 17 minutes of reading time left, I still didn’t know “who’d dun it”. That’s too much weight for too little space.
What kept me reading was not knowing who to trust, including Rosie herself. No one is entirely blameless, and that ambiguity is where the book is at its best.
A gripping, character-driven thriller. Not flawless, but absolutely worth your time.
ARC received with thanks via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Meeting the family of her boyfriend Theo for the first time in a very expensive Tuscan villa. Will this be heaven or a holiday from hell for Rosie. But a shadow lies around the fictional village of Laprezia where a young girl disappeared 15 years earlier and whose body was never found leading to loss of tourism to the area and suspicion of outsiders.
Rosie is naturally feeling anxious about the trip but reveals she has her own secret also. I never tired of reading about the interaction between Fenna and Marianne her manipulative interfering mother in law who seemed all to real. Fenna’s husband Luke was maybe a bit too stereotypical an unreliable waster who does little to help out his wife with their two young children but it was still fun finding out what new skullduggery he had been up to. Theo and his brother Luke are still bickering like they have done since childhood. So it was full on dysfunctional family dynamics of the rich wrapped up in lush descriptions of the Tuscany in summer .
Another girl goes missing and Rosie who has the annoying habit of jumping to conclusions is sure that this is connected to the earlier disappearance. Although I guessed some of the secrets there were enough surprises throughout the investigation to keep me entertained. Although the one set piece that was out of place was the prescence of a luxury yacht complete with staff in what seemed to be an inland lake in Tuscany.
It was very easy to read and an excellent page turner.
Thanks to NetGalley and Headline for the ARC
Rosie is naturally feeling anxious about the trip but reveals she has her own secret also. I never tired of reading about the interaction between Fenna and Marianne her manipulative interfering mother in law who seemed all to real. Fenna’s husband Luke was maybe a bit too stereotypical an unreliable waster who does little to help out his wife with their two young children but it was still fun finding out what new skullduggery he had been up to. Theo and his brother Luke are still bickering like they have done since childhood. So it was full on dysfunctional family dynamics of the rich wrapped up in lush descriptions of the Tuscany in summer .
Another girl goes missing and Rosie who has the annoying habit of jumping to conclusions is sure that this is connected to the earlier disappearance. Although I guessed some of the secrets there were enough surprises throughout the investigation to keep me entertained. Although the one set piece that was out of place was the prescence of a luxury yacht complete with staff in what seemed to be an inland lake in Tuscany.
It was very easy to read and an excellent page turner.
Thanks to NetGalley and Headline for the ARC
November 28, 2025
Review of ‘Welcome to the Family’ by Kate Gray, due to be published on 9 April 2026 by Headline, Mountain Leopard Press.
Rosie is nervous to meet her boyfriend Theo’s family for the first time - especially as it’s at their villa in Tuscany, for a whole two weeks. It should be an idyllic getaway, but it’s the anniversary of a girl’s disappearance in the region 15 years prior which is now being coupled with another girl going missing, and questions are being asked. Who knows what, who has something to hide, and who is keeping secrets?
The story is told in alternating chapters with Rosie being one voice, and Fenna - Theo’s sister in law, the other. Before the book ends, one of them will be arrested, and one of the characters will be murdered.
The storyline is engaging, the writing descriptive and characters are well developed. Some of them give you an uneasy feeling, leading you down a train of thought, only for a twist to come in unexpectedly. You think you have it all worked out, but chances are - you’ll be wrong. A great, psychological thriller, that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Rosie is nervous to meet her boyfriend Theo’s family for the first time - especially as it’s at their villa in Tuscany, for a whole two weeks. It should be an idyllic getaway, but it’s the anniversary of a girl’s disappearance in the region 15 years prior which is now being coupled with another girl going missing, and questions are being asked. Who knows what, who has something to hide, and who is keeping secrets?
The story is told in alternating chapters with Rosie being one voice, and Fenna - Theo’s sister in law, the other. Before the book ends, one of them will be arrested, and one of the characters will be murdered.
The storyline is engaging, the writing descriptive and characters are well developed. Some of them give you an uneasy feeling, leading you down a train of thought, only for a twist to come in unexpectedly. You think you have it all worked out, but chances are - you’ll be wrong. A great, psychological thriller, that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Headline Audio, Mountain Leopard Press and NetGalley for the chance to listen to Welcome to the Family before it’s released. This was my 3rd Kate Gray read, and I think it was my favourite yet! While I clocked several twists from early on, I didn’t clock them all. I like a thriller that keeps me on my toes and guessing, but I like to pretend I’m Miss Marple and work it out before the final reveals. My one criticism was there was no jaw dropping reveals, I don’t know if it was because the characters were unlikeable or not fully fleshed out but nothing surprised me. There was no emotional investment or desire for comeuppance because I barely knew anything about them.
I got my approval this afternoon so I put the audiobook on this afternoon and listened to it while I was cooking dinner, it was a great story to lose myself in and finished it in two listens. Phillippa Wilson is a new to me narrator, I would listen to another audiobook she’s narrated without hesitation. If you love stories set in sunny locations that you can get lost in, Welcome to the Family is an enjoyable read/listen! It’s out 9th April!
I got my approval this afternoon so I put the audiobook on this afternoon and listened to it while I was cooking dinner, it was a great story to lose myself in and finished it in two listens. Phillippa Wilson is a new to me narrator, I would listen to another audiobook she’s narrated without hesitation. If you love stories set in sunny locations that you can get lost in, Welcome to the Family is an enjoyable read/listen! It’s out 9th April!
March 1, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Welcome to the Family by Kate Gray.
This is a tense, emotionally intelligent psychological thriller that focuses on the fractures beneath a seemingly close family. After a sudden and deeply unsettling loss, long-buried resentments and secrets begin to surface, and the atmosphere shifts from grief to suspicion with quiet but relentless precision.
What I appreciated most was the character work. Each family member feels authentic, flawed and recognisably human, and Gray takes her time peeling back their layers. The tension builds not through sensational twists but through the slow, uncomfortable realisation that everyone is holding something back. The claustrophobic family dynamic is handled particularly well, and the emotional undercurrents feel sharp and believable.
The pacing is measured yet compelling, allowing the psychological strands to tighten steadily. It’s a story about grief, denial and the corrosive power of secrets as much as it is about uncovering the truth.
A thoughtful, character-driven thriller that delivers a steady sense of unease throughout. A strong four stars from me.
This is a tense, emotionally intelligent psychological thriller that focuses on the fractures beneath a seemingly close family. After a sudden and deeply unsettling loss, long-buried resentments and secrets begin to surface, and the atmosphere shifts from grief to suspicion with quiet but relentless precision.
What I appreciated most was the character work. Each family member feels authentic, flawed and recognisably human, and Gray takes her time peeling back their layers. The tension builds not through sensational twists but through the slow, uncomfortable realisation that everyone is holding something back. The claustrophobic family dynamic is handled particularly well, and the emotional undercurrents feel sharp and believable.
The pacing is measured yet compelling, allowing the psychological strands to tighten steadily. It’s a story about grief, denial and the corrosive power of secrets as much as it is about uncovering the truth.
A thoughtful, character-driven thriller that delivers a steady sense of unease throughout. A strong four stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Welcome to the Family by Kate Grey completely pulled me in from the first chapter. This is one of those books where you tell yourself, “just one more chapter”...suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
What really stood out was how well Grey captured family dynamics: the unspoken tensions, the loyalties, the resentments, and the way love and dysfunction can coexist in such complicated ways. The characters felt real, messy, and painfully relatable, which made every interaction hit harder.
Just when you think you’re settling into a family drama, the mystery subplot kicks in and raises the stakes. The pacing is excellent, with twists that feel earned rather than forced, and an undercurrent of unease that keeps you turning pages. I loved how the suspense was woven naturally into the emotional core of the story instead of overshadowing it.
Compelling, tense, and deeply engaging; this book has heart and bite. Highly recommend for anyone who loves character-driven stories with a dark, page-turning edge.
Welcome to the Family by Kate Grey completely pulled me in from the first chapter. This is one of those books where you tell yourself, “just one more chapter”...suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
What really stood out was how well Grey captured family dynamics: the unspoken tensions, the loyalties, the resentments, and the way love and dysfunction can coexist in such complicated ways. The characters felt real, messy, and painfully relatable, which made every interaction hit harder.
Just when you think you’re settling into a family drama, the mystery subplot kicks in and raises the stakes. The pacing is excellent, with twists that feel earned rather than forced, and an undercurrent of unease that keeps you turning pages. I loved how the suspense was woven naturally into the emotional core of the story instead of overshadowing it.
Compelling, tense, and deeply engaging; this book has heart and bite. Highly recommend for anyone who loves character-driven stories with a dark, page-turning edge.
November 27, 2025
Rosie is joining her boyfriend Theo‘s family in their Italian villa. She’s nervous about meeting them all for the first time and her nerves aren’t helped by her Italian taxi driver warning her to be careful around the family.
When she gets to the village, she notices posters for an English schoolgirl who went missing from the area 15 years ago and has never been seen since. Theo’s family are reluctant to talk about the girl, brushing it off as ancient history. Also on the trip are Theo‘s brother Luke, his Italian wife Fenna and their two small children. The chapters alternate between Rosie and Fenna’s povs.
The holiday is luxurious and bountiful, with mountains of food and drink by the pool, trips to historic cities and yacht trips to top it off. Rosie can’t help digging more into the case of the missing girl and what that might mean for Theo‘s family.
This is an enjoyable captivating destination thriller which left me craving Italian sunshine and a bowl of olives!
When she gets to the village, she notices posters for an English schoolgirl who went missing from the area 15 years ago and has never been seen since. Theo’s family are reluctant to talk about the girl, brushing it off as ancient history. Also on the trip are Theo‘s brother Luke, his Italian wife Fenna and their two small children. The chapters alternate between Rosie and Fenna’s povs.
The holiday is luxurious and bountiful, with mountains of food and drink by the pool, trips to historic cities and yacht trips to top it off. Rosie can’t help digging more into the case of the missing girl and what that might mean for Theo‘s family.
This is an enjoyable captivating destination thriller which left me craving Italian sunshine and a bowl of olives!
February 14, 2026
This isn’t the first book I’ve read by Kate Gray and as usual it didn’t disappoint! It pulled me in from the first chapter and I didn’t want to put it down.
I found it well pasted and written in a way that made the twists and turns of the plot not feel forced.
The way the author wrote about the characters was just amazing going into depth with their mannerisms back stories and personalities. As well as really being able to capture the different dynamics in the family, the loyalties, the tension, how dysfunction and love could coexist in a way that complimented each other, all the way to the jealousy
When you finally think you have figured out what has happened you realised that you may be completely wrong.
I really enjoyed reading this book! I will definitely be going back. I’m reading more of the author‘s older books, and I look forward to what’s next to come from this author in the future.
I found it well pasted and written in a way that made the twists and turns of the plot not feel forced.
The way the author wrote about the characters was just amazing going into depth with their mannerisms back stories and personalities. As well as really being able to capture the different dynamics in the family, the loyalties, the tension, how dysfunction and love could coexist in a way that complimented each other, all the way to the jealousy
When you finally think you have figured out what has happened you realised that you may be completely wrong.
I really enjoyed reading this book! I will definitely be going back. I’m reading more of the author‘s older books, and I look forward to what’s next to come from this author in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Welcome to the Family is an eerie thriller that draws you in & keeps you hooked.
I have to point out firstly those Family dynamics, the resentment, jealousy, building tension & loyalties were captured so precisely by the author. Love & detest can run side by side & this story shows just that.
The scene setting was amazingly done & in the beginning I was wishing I was on my way to Tuscany too however by the end I was very glad I wasn't.
The characters were compelling with the depth the author went into with their personalities, mannerisms & backstories. The tension between Rosie & Fenna was intriguing.
Overall a decent thriller that kept me guessing until the very end, just when you think you'll have got it sussed you will probably be wrong.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher & author for an advanced copy of this book.
I have to point out firstly those Family dynamics, the resentment, jealousy, building tension & loyalties were captured so precisely by the author. Love & detest can run side by side & this story shows just that.
The scene setting was amazingly done & in the beginning I was wishing I was on my way to Tuscany too however by the end I was very glad I wasn't.
The characters were compelling with the depth the author went into with their personalities, mannerisms & backstories. The tension between Rosie & Fenna was intriguing.
Overall a decent thriller that kept me guessing until the very end, just when you think you'll have got it sussed you will probably be wrong.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher & author for an advanced copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A family holiday is meant to be relaxing, but when a woman joins her partner’s wealthy, picture-perfect family on a luxe getaway, tensions simmer beneath the surface. Old secrets, hidden resentments, and uneasy vibes build until the trip takes a deadly turn — and not everyone will make it home.
This was such a fun, twisty holiday thriller! The glamorous setting mixed with awkward family dynamics made everything feel tense from the start. I loved that “smiling-on-the-outside, chaos-on-the-inside” vibe — you just know something bad is coming. It’s fast, dramatic, and full of suspicion, and I kept guessing who to trust. Perfect binge-read for when you want messy family drama with a dark, thriller edge.
Thank you @netgalley @headlinebooks @kate_gray_author for the ARC.
Publication date : 9th April 2026
This was such a fun, twisty holiday thriller! The glamorous setting mixed with awkward family dynamics made everything feel tense from the start. I loved that “smiling-on-the-outside, chaos-on-the-inside” vibe — you just know something bad is coming. It’s fast, dramatic, and full of suspicion, and I kept guessing who to trust. Perfect binge-read for when you want messy family drama with a dark, thriller edge.
Thank you @netgalley @headlinebooks @kate_gray_author for the ARC.
Publication date : 9th April 2026
February 10, 2026
Thank you Headline/Mountain Leopard Press and NetGalley for this ARC - Welcome to the Family will be released April 9!
Rosie is meeting her boyfriend Theo’s family for the first time at a getaway at his family’s holiday home in Italy. From the outset, something is off and it relates to the disappearance of a school girl 15 years prior.
This book had me on edge from start to finish. Kate Gray really built an atmosphere of suspense and tension, with an unnerving feeling from the start right through to the end. As far as thrillers/mystery’s go, this was a pretty good one. I found the pacing brilliant, I was hooked the whole time, and the character building was great. I didn’t predict the ending, entirely, though had some idea of how it might pan out, and loved it as more components of the mystery were uncovered.
An easy to read and enjoyable thriller!
Rosie is meeting her boyfriend Theo’s family for the first time at a getaway at his family’s holiday home in Italy. From the outset, something is off and it relates to the disappearance of a school girl 15 years prior.
This book had me on edge from start to finish. Kate Gray really built an atmosphere of suspense and tension, with an unnerving feeling from the start right through to the end. As far as thrillers/mystery’s go, this was a pretty good one. I found the pacing brilliant, I was hooked the whole time, and the character building was great. I didn’t predict the ending, entirely, though had some idea of how it might pan out, and loved it as more components of the mystery were uncovered.
An easy to read and enjoyable thriller!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Three stars from me means that I believe the author has achieved their aims and it’s a good novel, but that I personally did not fall in love with it.
The plot revolves around a man taking his new girlfriend to meet his family at their holiday home in Italy. On top of his brother, sister-in-law, step-father and mother being horrible people, main character Rosie soon begins to suspect that her partner may be caught up in the disappearance of two young women.
As if that were not enough, we soon begin to suspect that Rosie herself may know more than she is disclosing.
I downloaded the audiobook to listen to while doing admin, and it served me well for that purpose. Would definitely recommend to anyone who likes a family-at-war sub-plot.
Three word review: twisted family relations.
The plot revolves around a man taking his new girlfriend to meet his family at their holiday home in Italy. On top of his brother, sister-in-law, step-father and mother being horrible people, main character Rosie soon begins to suspect that her partner may be caught up in the disappearance of two young women.
As if that were not enough, we soon begin to suspect that Rosie herself may know more than she is disclosing.
I downloaded the audiobook to listen to while doing admin, and it served me well for that purpose. Would definitely recommend to anyone who likes a family-at-war sub-plot.
Three word review: twisted family relations.
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March 2, 2026I enjoyed this book. The story is set in a luxurious house in Tuscany, the holiday home of the Frasers. Rosie is the girlfriend of Theo Fraser and is meeting his family for the first time. Fenna is married to Luke Fraser and they have 2 very young children. Fenna is struggling with coping with the children and resents her mother in law's interference. The nearby town has been badly affected by the disappearance of a British teenager a number of years ago. The case has never been solved. Rosie seems unusually interested in the story and Fenna thinks she's not what she seems. Lots of secrets are being kept. This is a real page turner that will keep you guessing right to the end.
Thanks to NetGalley for a preview copy.
Thanks to NetGalley for a preview copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rosie Riley is nervously about to meet her boyfriend’s parents and brothers for the first time at their holiday home in Tuscany. The book kicks off with a woman being arrested for murder, which immediately drew me in as I settled down to listen. It’s an easy listen, with a fast-paced story that kept me wanting just one more chapter. The narrative alternates between Rosie and Fenna, the wife of one of her boyfriend’s brothers. The plot takes some interesting twists, and you can just feel that something bad is about to happen! This would make a perfect holiday read. I enjoyed the narration by Phillipa Wilson, although her voice for Rosie occasionally sounded a bit strange!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a really enjoyable twisty thriller. What could possibly go wrong on a sun soaked family holiday at a sprawling Tuscan home? Well, as the story opens we discover that at the end of the fortnight someone will be arrested for murder, but who? Who did they kill and why did they do it?
Initially and I do mean very briefly I found the narration a little bit jarring, but it didn’t really take long until I was completely immersed in the story.
Well paced, intriguing and packed with twists that I didn’t see coming.
Thanks to Headline Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
3.75 ⭐️
Initially and I do mean very briefly I found the narration a little bit jarring, but it didn’t really take long until I was completely immersed in the story.
Well paced, intriguing and packed with twists that I didn’t see coming.
Thanks to Headline Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
3.75 ⭐️
November 17, 2025
3.5/5
This is a typical family-drama, rich-people-behaving-badly type of thriller set in Tuscany.
It was incredibly easy to read and such a page-turner — I flew through it in two sittings. It’s the kind of book that’s perfect for reading on the beach!
The downsides were that plot was a little basic, with some random storylines thrown into the mix, and the ending felt a bit rushed.
Overall, it wasn’t mind-blowing, but sometimes something light and easy that doesn’t take itself too seriously is exactly what you need.
This is a typical family-drama, rich-people-behaving-badly type of thriller set in Tuscany.
It was incredibly easy to read and such a page-turner — I flew through it in two sittings. It’s the kind of book that’s perfect for reading on the beach!
The downsides were that plot was a little basic, with some random storylines thrown into the mix, and the ending felt a bit rushed.
Overall, it wasn’t mind-blowing, but sometimes something light and easy that doesn’t take itself too seriously is exactly what you need.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thrillers set abroad are my favourite, so I was instantly intrigued by the premise of this book. The writing style was nice and easy to read, and I liked how the short chapters kept the book feeling pacy. The plot was engaging and I really liked the descriptions of the Italian setting.
I think some of the characters could have been developed a little more (we find out very little about Theo for example) and there was a lack of a 'wow' moment that made this a 4 star read for me rather than a 5 star one.
I think some of the characters could have been developed a little more (we find out very little about Theo for example) and there was a lack of a 'wow' moment that made this a 4 star read for me rather than a 5 star one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thoroughly enjoyed Welcome To The Family , picking it up at every opportunity.
The prologue is quick and mysterious, setting the scene for the action that follows ; a woman is arrested for murder !!
This was a nicely paced story with characters that all appeared to have something to hide, and several times I thought I knew how it would end, but I was kept guessing till the last few pages.
Rosie has been invited to her boyfriend’s family’s Tuscan farmhouse for a holiday and to meet his family, the Frasers, for the first time. She’s excited but anxious, as she doesn’t want the secret she’s been harbouring to be exposed. Fenna, who married into the Fraser family 5 years before immediately starts to have suspicions about Rosie. Who is she ? And what is she really doing on this holiday?
The dual perspectives in the book worked really well and supported the progression of the plot, and Kate Gray’s meticulous descriptions make the setting come alive, immersing the reader in the Tuscan countryside and in the lives of the Fraser family. I found the characters to be realistic and their interactions felt natural. Needless to say, the secrets lurking beneath the surface are revealed gradually, heightening the tension even further.
Overall, this is a gripping novel that skilfully combines family dynamics with the suspense of a psychological thriller, ensuring readers are hooked until the very last page.
Thank you to Net Galley and Headline Books for the advanced copy.
The prologue is quick and mysterious, setting the scene for the action that follows ; a woman is arrested for murder !!
This was a nicely paced story with characters that all appeared to have something to hide, and several times I thought I knew how it would end, but I was kept guessing till the last few pages.
Rosie has been invited to her boyfriend’s family’s Tuscan farmhouse for a holiday and to meet his family, the Frasers, for the first time. She’s excited but anxious, as she doesn’t want the secret she’s been harbouring to be exposed. Fenna, who married into the Fraser family 5 years before immediately starts to have suspicions about Rosie. Who is she ? And what is she really doing on this holiday?
The dual perspectives in the book worked really well and supported the progression of the plot, and Kate Gray’s meticulous descriptions make the setting come alive, immersing the reader in the Tuscan countryside and in the lives of the Fraser family. I found the characters to be realistic and their interactions felt natural. Needless to say, the secrets lurking beneath the surface are revealed gradually, heightening the tension even further.
Overall, this is a gripping novel that skilfully combines family dynamics with the suspense of a psychological thriller, ensuring readers are hooked until the very last page.
Thank you to Net Galley and Headline Books for the advanced copy.
February 3, 2026
This book was just what I needed to get out of a reading slump! It’s a well paced thriller in a beautiful setting with two likeable main characters. It’s not necessarily a unique book as it’s a classic rich people behaving badly hence the 4* but it’s really well done. There was just the right amount of foreshadowing in this to keep me hooked. I ended up finishing this book really fast, but I sort of wish I’d had it as a summer read now as it’s the perfect setting. I’ll definitely be checking out other books by this author and would love to see a glamorous tv adaptation of this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It was an interesting book very much who dunnit kinda vibes, Very tense book the whole way through i would have like if there was some character that was a small break from the tension cause every scene just had me on edge so it took me awhile to get through it. Maybe a good holiday read to contrast relaxation and sweet baby jesus everyone in the family is incredibly unlikeable especially the mother! 3.5 out of 5 rounded to 4
received early from netgalley in exchange for honest review all opinions are my own
received early from netgalley in exchange for honest review all opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An enjoyable read with a lovely setting. The villa sounds like a beautiful place to stay and the author creates a great sense of atmosphere.
The first half of the book was particularly engaging, exploring sibling rivalry and complicated family dynamics. It was a little slower than my usual reads, so for me it would make a good holiday read rather than a fast-paced thriller. The twist did come as a surprise, although it was just okay for me and the second half lost its way a little.
A well-written story with an interesting premise
The first half of the book was particularly engaging, exploring sibling rivalry and complicated family dynamics. It was a little slower than my usual reads, so for me it would make a good holiday read rather than a fast-paced thriller. The twist did come as a surprise, although it was just okay for me and the second half lost its way a little.
A well-written story with an interesting premise
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
With Kate Gray's books, I have to hold my breath from beginning to end. She keeps you gripped from the start, and this one was even more heart racing. I thought I'd got it, yeah must be him, but no!! Utter surprise! Ha.
And I feel so much more can come from this one too. I'll be jumping straight on it if so!!
Loved it!!!! 5 stars.
Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
And I feel so much more can come from this one too. I'll be jumping straight on it if so!!
Loved it!!!! 5 stars.
Thank you to the author, publisher and netgalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2026
This was my first book by Kate Gray and it was an enjoyable one. The storyline had me hooked and I found myself listening for longer than I usually would. A little far fetched in places, but it didn’t detract from the story and I was intrigued to keep reading through the twists to find out what happened. I’ll definitely be checking out this author’s backlist. The narrator was great and easy to listen to. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the advanced audio copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A girl is missing. What happened and where did she go? Gripping throughout. I couldn't put it down and pulled an all nighter to finish it. I read it in one sitting. Highly recommended. I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy and leave this review willingly.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Welcome to the Family is a delightful story with good characters and very atmospheric. A real page turner and set in Tuscany it told a story of secrets and jealousy ,gripping until the very last page .Thank you to Net Galley for my ARC
February 25, 2026
I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook. The story and the narrator kept me fully engaged and held my attention from start to finish.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline Audio for letting me review this ARC audiobook
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline Audio for letting me review this ARC audiobook
March 10, 2026
I have to be honest, I don’t love this one. Whilst the story is fine - although easy to figure out, I really struggled with the pacing of the book, it was so slow it felt like nothing was happening sometimes. I also didn’t love the characters, although that’s a me thing.
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