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Just Between Us
Not yet published
Expected 30 Mar 26Six friends. One storm. A secret to die for…
We arrived at the beautiful, sprawling Spanish villa ready to celebrate – over twenty years of friendship, and of course, Alexis’s big birthday. It’s paradise. Alexis has pulled out all the stops, and like always, I know we’re meant to be grateful…
But the tensions begin on the very first night.
The workaholic slipping off to take mysterious calls.
The people pleaser afraid to speak out.
The quiet observer snidely analysing every move we make.
The former life of the party knocking back wine to forget it all.
Even I, the peacekeeper, have secrets…
And of course, Alexis, the Queen Bee – furious that, as a summer storm descends, her perfect trip isn’t working out like she planned… Her fury makes it feel like she’s hiding something. Like her schemes are unravelling…
I thought our secrets finally emerging might be the biggest threat on this trip. But on the last night, I wake up on the cold floor of the locked wine cellar, a knife clutched in my hand and Alexis’s body unmoving beside me.
I want to scream, to cry, to run, but with the floodwater rising, we’re trapped. My friends all think I killed her. But I know I didn’t, which means someone else here did…
An addictive, deliciously juicy and twisty psychological thriller that will have you turning the pages late into the night. Perfect for fans of The Wives, The Holiday and One of the Girls.
Readers love Barbara
‘I just read my new favourite book… ALL THE STARS!… I'm in awe… I was so flipped around by the end!… READ THIS BOOK!… *INSERT STANDING OVATION HERE*’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘One of the best books I have read… Gripping… Left me completely hooked… Packed with twists and turns on nearly every page… will leave you stunned.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘WOW – I am speechless… I am absolutely blown away by this book… Really, really got under my skin… I feel slightly dizzy now and need a lie down with a soft pillow and lots of chocolate.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘OMFG!!… Just blew everything else out of the water. Seriously. This book had me on edge… My poor nerves were shattered. Buy it, read it, love it! This book gets ALL the stars from me!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Spectacular. I was totally blindsided by the ending. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it so much I read it in one sitting.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This book!!! What do I even say?? Where do I even begin??!! I am so in awe… Left me reeling even hours after reading it…
We arrived at the beautiful, sprawling Spanish villa ready to celebrate – over twenty years of friendship, and of course, Alexis’s big birthday. It’s paradise. Alexis has pulled out all the stops, and like always, I know we’re meant to be grateful…
But the tensions begin on the very first night.
The workaholic slipping off to take mysterious calls.
The people pleaser afraid to speak out.
The quiet observer snidely analysing every move we make.
The former life of the party knocking back wine to forget it all.
Even I, the peacekeeper, have secrets…
And of course, Alexis, the Queen Bee – furious that, as a summer storm descends, her perfect trip isn’t working out like she planned… Her fury makes it feel like she’s hiding something. Like her schemes are unravelling…
I thought our secrets finally emerging might be the biggest threat on this trip. But on the last night, I wake up on the cold floor of the locked wine cellar, a knife clutched in my hand and Alexis’s body unmoving beside me.
I want to scream, to cry, to run, but with the floodwater rising, we’re trapped. My friends all think I killed her. But I know I didn’t, which means someone else here did…
An addictive, deliciously juicy and twisty psychological thriller that will have you turning the pages late into the night. Perfect for fans of The Wives, The Holiday and One of the Girls.
Readers love Barbara
‘I just read my new favourite book… ALL THE STARS!… I'm in awe… I was so flipped around by the end!… READ THIS BOOK!… *INSERT STANDING OVATION HERE*’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘One of the best books I have read… Gripping… Left me completely hooked… Packed with twists and turns on nearly every page… will leave you stunned.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘WOW – I am speechless… I am absolutely blown away by this book… Really, really got under my skin… I feel slightly dizzy now and need a lie down with a soft pillow and lots of chocolate.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘OMFG!!… Just blew everything else out of the water. Seriously. This book had me on edge… My poor nerves were shattered. Buy it, read it, love it! This book gets ALL the stars from me!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Spectacular. I was totally blindsided by the ending. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it so much I read it in one sitting.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘This book!!! What do I even say?? Where do I even begin??!! I am so in awe… Left me reeling even hours after reading it…
377 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 30, 2026
12 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Copperthwaite
12 books293 followersWhat people say about Barbara's books:
"Will have you looking over your shoulder and under your bed... Original, gripping, with a deep psychological impact," Sunday Mirror
"Enthralling, tense and moving," Real People magazine
"Totally gripping, and scarily believable," Bella magazine
Barbara is the Amazon and USA Today bestselling author of psychological thrillers INVISIBLE, FLOWERS FOR THE DEAD, THE DARKEST LIES, HER LAST SECRET, and THE PERFECT FRIEND. Her new book, THE GIRL IN THE MISSING POSTER, is out on 23 February but available to pre-order now!
More importantly, she loves cakes, wildlife photography and, last but definitely not least, her two dogs, Scamp and Buddy (who force her to throw tennis balls for them for hours).
Having spent over twenty years as a national newspaper and magazine journalist, Barbara has interviewed the real victims of crime - and also those who have carried those crimes out. She is fascinated by creating realistic, complex characters, and taking them apart before the readers' eyes in order to discover just how much it takes to push a person over a line.
When not writing feverishly, she is often found hiding behind a camera, taking wildlife photographs.
To find out more about Barbara's novels, go to www.facebook.com/AuthorBarbaraCoppert... or follow @BCopperthwait on Twitter. To find out more about Barbara go to www.barbaracopperthwaite.com
"Will have you looking over your shoulder and under your bed... Original, gripping, with a deep psychological impact," Sunday Mirror
"Enthralling, tense and moving," Real People magazine
"Totally gripping, and scarily believable," Bella magazine
Barbara is the Amazon and USA Today bestselling author of psychological thrillers INVISIBLE, FLOWERS FOR THE DEAD, THE DARKEST LIES, HER LAST SECRET, and THE PERFECT FRIEND. Her new book, THE GIRL IN THE MISSING POSTER, is out on 23 February but available to pre-order now!
More importantly, she loves cakes, wildlife photography and, last but definitely not least, her two dogs, Scamp and Buddy (who force her to throw tennis balls for them for hours).
Having spent over twenty years as a national newspaper and magazine journalist, Barbara has interviewed the real victims of crime - and also those who have carried those crimes out. She is fascinated by creating realistic, complex characters, and taking them apart before the readers' eyes in order to discover just how much it takes to push a person over a line.
When not writing feverishly, she is often found hiding behind a camera, taking wildlife photographs.
To find out more about Barbara's novels, go to www.facebook.com/AuthorBarbaraCoppert... or follow @BCopperthwait on Twitter. To find out more about Barbara go to www.barbaracopperthwaite.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 28, 2026
Filled with friendship, murder, betrayal, lies and twists.
If you love a good lock room mystery, this is the perfect plot.
The plot mentioned a poster of James Van Der Beek and I lost it, as his death at such young age leaving behind his wife and children.
If you love a good lock room mystery, this is the perfect plot.
The plot mentioned a poster of James Van Der Beek and I lost it, as his death at such young age leaving behind his wife and children.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I'm a big fan of locked-room whodunits, so I went into this novel with high expectations and in many ways, it delivered exactly what I love about the genre. The classic setup of a closed circle of suspects cut off from the outside world immediately drew me in.
One of the book’s strongest elements was the gradual unveiling of each character’s secrets. I particularly enjoyed how these revelations were layered throughout the story, allowing tensions to simmer and alliances to shift. The atmosphere of mistrust felt authentic and kept the stakes high.
The pacing was another highlight. The story moved briskly without feeling rushed and clues were revealed at just the right moments to keep me engaged.
However, despite the strong premise and structure, I struggled at times to clearly distinguish between the six central characters. While they each had secrets, their personalities and voices sometimes blended together, which made it difficult to fully invest in them as individuals. With more distinct characterisation and deeper development the emotional impact of the story could have been even stronger.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and cleverly constructed locked-room mystery. While the characters could have been developed further to make them more memorable and distinct, the well-paced narrative and unfolding secrets made it a compelling and entertaining read.
One of the book’s strongest elements was the gradual unveiling of each character’s secrets. I particularly enjoyed how these revelations were layered throughout the story, allowing tensions to simmer and alliances to shift. The atmosphere of mistrust felt authentic and kept the stakes high.
The pacing was another highlight. The story moved briskly without feeling rushed and clues were revealed at just the right moments to keep me engaged.
However, despite the strong premise and structure, I struggled at times to clearly distinguish between the six central characters. While they each had secrets, their personalities and voices sometimes blended together, which made it difficult to fully invest in them as individuals. With more distinct characterisation and deeper development the emotional impact of the story could have been even stronger.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and cleverly constructed locked-room mystery. While the characters could have been developed further to make them more memorable and distinct, the well-paced narrative and unfolding secrets made it a compelling and entertaining read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Just Between Us is a deliciously tense, sun‑drenched thriller that peels back the glossy surface of long‑standing friendships to reveal the fractures, resentments, and secrets simmering beneath. From the moment the group arrives at the luxurious Spanish villa, there’s a sense that something is already off‑balance—an unease that grows with every chapter.
The dynamic between the six friends is wonderfully drawn. Each woman carries her own quiet burden: the workaholic who can’t switch off, the people pleaser who never quite finds her voice, the observer who sees more than she lets on, the former life‑of‑the‑party trying to outrun her past, and the narrator—steady, loyal, and hiding her own truths. At the centre is Alexis, the magnetic, demanding Queen Bee whose birthday celebration becomes the perfect stage for old tensions to flare.
The author captures the claustrophobia of the villa beautifully. The heat, the storm rolling in, the rising floodwater—it all mirrors the emotional pressure building within the group. As secrets slip out and alliances shift, the atmosphere becomes thick with suspicion. By the time the narrator wakes in the locked wine cellar, a knife in her hand and Alexis lying beside her, the story has tightened into a gripping, breath‑held moment.
What follows is a sharp, twist‑laden unraveling of friendship, loyalty, and the stories we tell ourselves about the people we love. The pacing is addictive, the reveals well‑timed, and the emotional stakes feel real. It’s a thriller that understands the unique danger of intimate relationships: no one can hurt you quite like the people who know you best.
A juicy, atmospheric, and compulsively readable psychological thriller—perfect for readers who love their summer escapes with a dark, twisty edge.
With thanks to Barbara Copperthwaite, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The dynamic between the six friends is wonderfully drawn. Each woman carries her own quiet burden: the workaholic who can’t switch off, the people pleaser who never quite finds her voice, the observer who sees more than she lets on, the former life‑of‑the‑party trying to outrun her past, and the narrator—steady, loyal, and hiding her own truths. At the centre is Alexis, the magnetic, demanding Queen Bee whose birthday celebration becomes the perfect stage for old tensions to flare.
The author captures the claustrophobia of the villa beautifully. The heat, the storm rolling in, the rising floodwater—it all mirrors the emotional pressure building within the group. As secrets slip out and alliances shift, the atmosphere becomes thick with suspicion. By the time the narrator wakes in the locked wine cellar, a knife in her hand and Alexis lying beside her, the story has tightened into a gripping, breath‑held moment.
What follows is a sharp, twist‑laden unraveling of friendship, loyalty, and the stories we tell ourselves about the people we love. The pacing is addictive, the reveals well‑timed, and the emotional stakes feel real. It’s a thriller that understands the unique danger of intimate relationships: no one can hurt you quite like the people who know you best.
A juicy, atmospheric, and compulsively readable psychological thriller—perfect for readers who love their summer escapes with a dark, twisty edge.
With thanks to Barbara Copperthwaite, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Expectation vs. reality? I went in ready to love this, but had a harder time fully connecting than I expected.
I typically love a dual timeline, but this one didn’t quite work for me. A big part of that came down to the structure. In the audiobook, the chapters aren’t clearly labeled by timeline, which made it confusing to track where you were. Because of that, the transitions between past and present didn’t flow as smoothly as they could have, and the constant back-and-forth felt more jarring than immersive.
That said, the narration itself was solid. Naomi Frederick and Sophie Roberts both did a great job conveying emotion and bringing the characters to life. The disconnect wasn’t in the performance, but in how the story was structured.
As for the plot, it was entertaining enough, but it’s a storyline I’ve come across several times lately and this one didn’t bring anything particularly new to the table. If I hadn’t been listening as an ALC, this probably would have been a DNF for me. Still, I stuck with it, and I’m glad I did because the final 15% was easily the strongest part of the book.
Even though I figured out a lot of the twists early on, I did enjoy how everything ultimately came together. The ending wrapped things up in a satisfying way and definitely elevated my overall impression, which is why I ended up rounding my rating up.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary ALC from Bookouture Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
I typically love a dual timeline, but this one didn’t quite work for me. A big part of that came down to the structure. In the audiobook, the chapters aren’t clearly labeled by timeline, which made it confusing to track where you were. Because of that, the transitions between past and present didn’t flow as smoothly as they could have, and the constant back-and-forth felt more jarring than immersive.
That said, the narration itself was solid. Naomi Frederick and Sophie Roberts both did a great job conveying emotion and bringing the characters to life. The disconnect wasn’t in the performance, but in how the story was structured.
As for the plot, it was entertaining enough, but it’s a storyline I’ve come across several times lately and this one didn’t bring anything particularly new to the table. If I hadn’t been listening as an ALC, this probably would have been a DNF for me. Still, I stuck with it, and I’m glad I did because the final 15% was easily the strongest part of the book.
Even though I figured out a lot of the twists early on, I did enjoy how everything ultimately came together. The ending wrapped things up in a satisfying way and definitely elevated my overall impression, which is why I ended up rounding my rating up.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary ALC from Bookouture Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
We arrived at the beautiful, sprawling Spanish villa ready to celebrate - over twenty years of friendship, and of course, Alexis's big birthday. It's paradise. Alexis has pulled out all the stops, and like always, I know we're meant to be grateful.... But the tension begins on the very first night.
The workaholic slipping off to take mysterious calls.
The pleaser afraid to speak out.
The quiet observer snidely analyses every move we make.
The former life of the party knocking back wine to forget it all.
Alexis, the Queen Bee - furious that a summer storm descends, her perfect trip isn't working out how she planned.... Her fury makes it feel like she's hiding something. Like her schemes are unravelling....
The story slowly unfolds revealing each of the characters secrets. The pace has been perfectly set. Six old friends went on holiday to celebrate Alexis's big birthday. As soon as the friends arrive at the luxurious Spanish villa, you can almost feel the atmosphere coming off the pages, and there's a storm on the way. The friendships start to unravel. The story is told mostly from Polly's perspective. I thought I could work this story out, I suspected them all, but in the end I got it wrong. This is a cleverly crafted story and I loved it.
Published 30th March 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #BarbaraCopperthwaite for my ARC of #JustBetweenUs in exchange for an honest review.
The workaholic slipping off to take mysterious calls.
The pleaser afraid to speak out.
The quiet observer snidely analyses every move we make.
The former life of the party knocking back wine to forget it all.
Alexis, the Queen Bee - furious that a summer storm descends, her perfect trip isn't working out how she planned.... Her fury makes it feel like she's hiding something. Like her schemes are unravelling....
The story slowly unfolds revealing each of the characters secrets. The pace has been perfectly set. Six old friends went on holiday to celebrate Alexis's big birthday. As soon as the friends arrive at the luxurious Spanish villa, you can almost feel the atmosphere coming off the pages, and there's a storm on the way. The friendships start to unravel. The story is told mostly from Polly's perspective. I thought I could work this story out, I suspected them all, but in the end I got it wrong. This is a cleverly crafted story and I loved it.
Published 30th March 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #BarbaraCopperthwaite for my ARC of #JustBetweenUs in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2026
Review of ‘Just Between Us’ by Barbara Copperthwaite, due to be published on 30 March 2026 by Bookouture.
Six lifelong friends agree to go to a secluded villa in Spain to celebrate one friend, Alexis, 40th birthday. They all travel together, except for Polly, who has to work and arrives later, incurring Alexis’ wrath.
It soon becomes clear that more than one of friends has ulterior motives for their trip, and whilst a storm rages in the Spanish hillside, a body is found. Soon, the fingers of suspicion are being pointed in every direction and nobody feels safe. Is one of them a killer, or does danger lurk elsewhere.
The main thread of the storyline is told from Polly’s point of view as she tries to piece together how deep the secrets and betrayals run between the friends.
All six friends have deeply complex and disturbing backstories, and more than one are instantly unlikeable as the carefully constructed facade they present comes crumbling down. As you read you suspect each of them as being capable of the crimes committed, you think you have it all worked out, but maybe you don’t - and another twist comes in to discredit your first theory. Ultimately, I had sussed out the who - it was the why that proved elusive until the final chapters. A fast paced, locked door psychological thriller that keeps you guessing.
Six lifelong friends agree to go to a secluded villa in Spain to celebrate one friend, Alexis, 40th birthday. They all travel together, except for Polly, who has to work and arrives later, incurring Alexis’ wrath.
It soon becomes clear that more than one of friends has ulterior motives for their trip, and whilst a storm rages in the Spanish hillside, a body is found. Soon, the fingers of suspicion are being pointed in every direction and nobody feels safe. Is one of them a killer, or does danger lurk elsewhere.
The main thread of the storyline is told from Polly’s point of view as she tries to piece together how deep the secrets and betrayals run between the friends.
All six friends have deeply complex and disturbing backstories, and more than one are instantly unlikeable as the carefully constructed facade they present comes crumbling down. As you read you suspect each of them as being capable of the crimes committed, you think you have it all worked out, but maybe you don’t - and another twist comes in to discredit your first theory. Ultimately, I had sussed out the who - it was the why that proved elusive until the final chapters. A fast paced, locked door psychological thriller that keeps you guessing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As a locked-room mystery lover, this one immediately had my attention. A closed-off setting, a tight circle of suspects, and a murder to unravel? Yes please.
The suspenseful atmosphere was strong from the start. I really enjoyed the investigative feel of the story and slowly piecing together what happened to Alexis. The whodunnit element was handled well, and the steady drip of secrets kept the tension building in a way that made it hard to put down.
One of the things I liked most was how information was revealed in layers. Just when you thought you had a read on someone, another detail would shift your perspective. The pacing moved quickly without feeling chaotic, and that momentum kept me engaged throughout.
Where I struggled a bit was with the cast of characters. With six central figures, I occasionally found their voices and personalities blending together. While they all had motives and hidden truths, I wanted clearer distinctions between them to deepen the emotional impact.
Overall, this was a solid and entertaining psychological thriller with strong atmosphere and a compelling mystery at its core. It didn’t completely blow me away, but it definitely delivered an enjoyable locked-room read.
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the ARC opportunity 🤍
March 20, 2026
Everyone loves a good road trip, so when 6 life long friends decide to celebrate their bestie’s birthday at a Spanish villa, we know it’s going to be a tiring and fun filled time. The center of the group, Alexis is having a celebration but in the midst of that celebration comes a storm, drama ensues, and tons of secrets unfold.
This was a suspenseful time of a controlling woman with friends who sometimes feeds her ego yet that won’t last long. Something happened when you turn forty and stop caring about peaceful existences and these ladies stop caring. I enjoyed the banter among them with good flashbacks on their lives and how they got to this moment. If you love reality v or scripted dramas, you are going to enjoy this roller coaster of emotions and trauma. Get your bottle of favorite wine and sip as these ladies slip down a water slide of witty insanity. The twist(s) was dizzy.
It took me a minute to get used to the British like accents of the narrators but it worked out well in the end.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #bookoutureaudio providing the advanced audio version in exchange for an honest review.
Use #JustBetweenUs #NetGalley
Rating: 4 stars
This was a suspenseful time of a controlling woman with friends who sometimes feeds her ego yet that won’t last long. Something happened when you turn forty and stop caring about peaceful existences and these ladies stop caring. I enjoyed the banter among them with good flashbacks on their lives and how they got to this moment. If you love reality v or scripted dramas, you are going to enjoy this roller coaster of emotions and trauma. Get your bottle of favorite wine and sip as these ladies slip down a water slide of witty insanity. The twist(s) was dizzy.
It took me a minute to get used to the British like accents of the narrators but it worked out well in the end.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #bookoutureaudio providing the advanced audio version in exchange for an honest review.
Use #JustBetweenUs #NetGalley
Rating: 4 stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
With friends like these, who needs enemies?
Six friends have been tight-knit since middle school. As they’re approaching 40, Alexis rents out a Spanish villa and insists five of her friends fly out from Britain with her for her weeklong birthday bash. Polly, Alexis’ oldest friend, can barely afford rent, but she pulls out all the stops to make the trip. Denying self-centered Alexis her wishes is impossible for all the women.
But when a disastrous storm hits, the women are trapped in the luxury villa. Slowly, long-held secrets and lies emerge – making these lifelong friends suspicious of one another when a murder occurs.
This twisty, locked room tale explores the secrets beneath the surface of even decades-long friendships. There may have been a few too many twists and over-the-top reveals for my taste, but I enjoyed the character revelations and the need to reflect on reexamining long held truths.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy - all thoughts are my own.
Six friends have been tight-knit since middle school. As they’re approaching 40, Alexis rents out a Spanish villa and insists five of her friends fly out from Britain with her for her weeklong birthday bash. Polly, Alexis’ oldest friend, can barely afford rent, but she pulls out all the stops to make the trip. Denying self-centered Alexis her wishes is impossible for all the women.
But when a disastrous storm hits, the women are trapped in the luxury villa. Slowly, long-held secrets and lies emerge – making these lifelong friends suspicious of one another when a murder occurs.
This twisty, locked room tale explores the secrets beneath the surface of even decades-long friendships. There may have been a few too many twists and over-the-top reveals for my taste, but I enjoyed the character revelations and the need to reflect on reexamining long held truths.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy - all thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sublimely enjoyable and I think if read on a warm beach it could be even better.
I was interested in the book from the description although a little worried I may not keep up with all the characters but in the end it was quite easy too. Each character is well defined and therefore you will understand who and where she fits in very quickly.
I felt deep dislike for Alexis the minute I started, I could feel her sneer and see her gloating about how much better she was than the others off the page. She’s just impossible to like and I really enjoyed how well the author conveyed so clearly.
There are multiple situations in this book that will require you to suspend your disbelief, but this is not done in a silly way and the book is very exciting as a result.
This will be a favourite for those who love their thrillers with a side of bitchiness.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I was interested in the book from the description although a little worried I may not keep up with all the characters but in the end it was quite easy too. Each character is well defined and therefore you will understand who and where she fits in very quickly.
I felt deep dislike for Alexis the minute I started, I could feel her sneer and see her gloating about how much better she was than the others off the page. She’s just impossible to like and I really enjoyed how well the author conveyed so clearly.
There are multiple situations in this book that will require you to suspend your disbelief, but this is not done in a silly way and the book is very exciting as a result.
This will be a favourite for those who love their thrillers with a side of bitchiness.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Six friends head off to a luxury villa in Spain to celebrate the birthday of the leader of the gang, Alexis. Except that nothing is as it seems - including the provenance of the villa itself. And as a storm front moves in, the isolation of the place brings the dangers lurking within the group to the forefront.
The meltdown starts with Alexis' death, but a lot more people are going to get hurt before it ends...
I preferred the audiobook for this one, because it allowed for a better differentiation between the characters who were largely represented in the form of typical character tropes.
Overall, the story was a mixed bag for me. It required a pretty hefty suspension of disbelief, and the twists were not sufficient to make the story line unique. But having said that, I have no doubt that the book will find its fans, so if the description appeals to you, it might be worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
The meltdown starts with Alexis' death, but a lot more people are going to get hurt before it ends...
I preferred the audiobook for this one, because it allowed for a better differentiation between the characters who were largely represented in the form of typical character tropes.
Overall, the story was a mixed bag for me. It required a pretty hefty suspension of disbelief, and the twists were not sufficient to make the story line unique. But having said that, I have no doubt that the book will find its fans, so if the description appeals to you, it might be worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the gifted audiobook.
This was a very solid locked room mystery; it was really complex and character driven. I liked that there was a mix of driving forces starting 25 years earlier, all the way to present-day, and that they were so fleshed out. Sometimes in a story like this the drama can take over the thriller/mystery elements of the book, but that wasn’t the case in this one. Everything came together well.
The only thing I really would have liked is better cohesion between the past and present in the first half of the book. A lot of secrets came out near the end and I think the pacing of those could have been spread out a little more, but overall that didn’t really affect my opinion of the book as it was very well thought out and intricate. In terms of the narration, the audiobook was easy to listen to and I was fully immersed in the story as I listened.
This was a very solid locked room mystery; it was really complex and character driven. I liked that there was a mix of driving forces starting 25 years earlier, all the way to present-day, and that they were so fleshed out. Sometimes in a story like this the drama can take over the thriller/mystery elements of the book, but that wasn’t the case in this one. Everything came together well.
The only thing I really would have liked is better cohesion between the past and present in the first half of the book. A lot of secrets came out near the end and I think the pacing of those could have been spread out a little more, but overall that didn’t really affect my opinion of the book as it was very well thought out and intricate. In terms of the narration, the audiobook was easy to listen to and I was fully immersed in the story as I listened.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Six friends. One storm. A secret to die for… with a tag line like that i could not resist.
Description- But the tensions begin on the very first night.
The workaholic slipping off to take mysterious calls.
The people pleaser afraid to speak out.
The quiet observer snidely analysing every move we make.
The former life of the party knocking back wine to forget it all.
Even I, the peacekeeper, have secrets…
Friendships, secrets, betrayal, murders, and more secrets all while stranded in a secluded village. Fast past twisty and will keep you guessing. Every time I thought I knew culprit I was wrong.
The audible performances by Naomi Frederick and Sophie Roberts was excellent. Their voices made it easy to differentiate between characters.Loved listening.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
I recommend you get your copy on the release date March 30, 2026
Description- But the tensions begin on the very first night.
The workaholic slipping off to take mysterious calls.
The people pleaser afraid to speak out.
The quiet observer snidely analysing every move we make.
The former life of the party knocking back wine to forget it all.
Even I, the peacekeeper, have secrets…
Friendships, secrets, betrayal, murders, and more secrets all while stranded in a secluded village. Fast past twisty and will keep you guessing. Every time I thought I knew culprit I was wrong.
The audible performances by Naomi Frederick and Sophie Roberts was excellent. Their voices made it easy to differentiate between characters.Loved listening.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
I recommend you get your copy on the release date March 30, 2026
February 28, 2026
First of all thank you to NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 4 Stars. It was good, fast paced & had lots going on. It follows a holiday between 6 friends which are heading to their 40’s & have been friends since school. Although I did really enjoy this I found it really confusing at times & got mixed up with some of the characters. They were Alexis, Polly, Selin, Annie, Catherine & Nic. This holiday in Spain, to celebrate Alexis’s 40th birthday, turns out to be a disaster & along the way secrets held on for years & more recent ones all come to light & all appear to be connected to each other. They all have their own issues & back stories & I didn’t guess the outcome, some jaw dropping moments & a few ‘really?! moments but it all fit together to make this a great read with a great punch!
I give this book 4 Stars. It was good, fast paced & had lots going on. It follows a holiday between 6 friends which are heading to their 40’s & have been friends since school. Although I did really enjoy this I found it really confusing at times & got mixed up with some of the characters. They were Alexis, Polly, Selin, Annie, Catherine & Nic. This holiday in Spain, to celebrate Alexis’s 40th birthday, turns out to be a disaster & along the way secrets held on for years & more recent ones all come to light & all appear to be connected to each other. They all have their own issues & back stories & I didn’t guess the outcome, some jaw dropping moments & a few ‘really?! moments but it all fit together to make this a great read with a great punch!
March 25, 2026
This was such a twisty, atmospheric read that constantly kept me guessing.
Six women reunite at a luxury villa to celebrate years of friendship… but it doesn’t take long before tensions rise and secrets start to surface. When a storm rolls in, everything spirals into something much darker.
The story is told through multiple POVs and timelines, which added to the mystery but could feel a little confusing at times—especially early on. But once everything starts clicking into place, it really pulls you in.
What I enjoyed most was how often this one made me second-guess myself. Just when I thought I had it figured out, something would shift and send me in a completely different direction.
If you love messy friendships, locked-room style tension, and stories where everyone is hiding something… this one definitely delivers.
Six women reunite at a luxury villa to celebrate years of friendship… but it doesn’t take long before tensions rise and secrets start to surface. When a storm rolls in, everything spirals into something much darker.
The story is told through multiple POVs and timelines, which added to the mystery but could feel a little confusing at times—especially early on. But once everything starts clicking into place, it really pulls you in.
What I enjoyed most was how often this one made me second-guess myself. Just when I thought I had it figured out, something would shift and send me in a completely different direction.
If you love messy friendships, locked-room style tension, and stories where everyone is hiding something… this one definitely delivers.
February 25, 2026
Wow! This was my first book by this author and I was blown away by the story of these six women who have been friends for decades. They have very distinctive personalities and there are hints of issues between many of these friends. The story was so intriguing I could not stop reading it! I honestly did not want it to end. The ending totally blew me away- twisting and very unexpected. The lies and deceptions between these women run very deep. This book had me immersed in the lives of these women throughout the book. Beautifully written! Cant wait to read her other books. Thank you to NetGalley, Barbara Copperthwaite and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. Easily the best thriller I have read in a long time. Solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
They say there are 3 sides to every story, but in this case there are 6. The stories and alternating truths of 6 lifelong friends on a dream getaway for a 40th birthday celebration, but also a trip in where things take a sinister turn and past secrets come pouring out.
Overall I did enjoy this title, although I did find the different perspectives of them and now to be a little confusing and a bit distracting at times. The
twists and turns were really well executed and the story was well written and well thought out.
Fun, fast paced and twisty.
I enjoyed the narration but the pauses between chapters were extremely long, I kept thinking I’d accidentally pressed pause.
Many thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
Overall I did enjoy this title, although I did find the different perspectives of them and now to be a little confusing and a bit distracting at times. The
twists and turns were really well executed and the story was well written and well thought out.
Fun, fast paced and twisty.
I enjoyed the narration but the pauses between chapters were extremely long, I kept thinking I’d accidentally pressed pause.
Many thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5*
As a fan of locked room mysteries, I couldn’t wait to dive into this one. The ‘locked room’ is a lavish villa tucked away in the mountains near Madrid. Six friends come together to celebrate a 40th birthday, but a massive storm quickly brings their festivities to an abrupt halt.
The story unfolds slowly and it soon becomes clear that all the women have secrets and their friendship soon begins to unravel. I did occasionally struggle to know who was who, and also the dual timelines made it slightly confusing at times, but this may have been because I was listening and not reading. There are plenty of red herrings thrown in the mix, but the story does need some suspension of disbelief, and I didn't guess the outcome.
As a fan of locked room mysteries, I couldn’t wait to dive into this one. The ‘locked room’ is a lavish villa tucked away in the mountains near Madrid. Six friends come together to celebrate a 40th birthday, but a massive storm quickly brings their festivities to an abrupt halt.
The story unfolds slowly and it soon becomes clear that all the women have secrets and their friendship soon begins to unravel. I did occasionally struggle to know who was who, and also the dual timelines made it slightly confusing at times, but this may have been because I was listening and not reading. There are plenty of red herrings thrown in the mix, but the story does need some suspension of disbelief, and I didn't guess the outcome.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and Bookoutre for the ARC of Just Between Us.
This is a twisty thriller about a group of life long friends that travel to a Spanish Villa to celebrate the Queen Bee Alexis's 40th birthday. From there chaos ensues and people seem to be getting attacked one by one. While I enjoyed the setting and friend group dynamic, there was a lot of characters to keep track off. The dual timelines made it even more confusing at times to remember who is who. This is a cast of unlikeable characters making it hard to really cheer for anyone but I did not see some of the twists coming. I rate it 3.25 stars rounded down to 3. I would read from this author again.
This is a twisty thriller about a group of life long friends that travel to a Spanish Villa to celebrate the Queen Bee Alexis's 40th birthday. From there chaos ensues and people seem to be getting attacked one by one. While I enjoyed the setting and friend group dynamic, there was a lot of characters to keep track off. The dual timelines made it even more confusing at times to remember who is who. This is a cast of unlikeable characters making it hard to really cheer for anyone but I did not see some of the twists coming. I rate it 3.25 stars rounded down to 3. I would read from this author again.
March 25, 2026
Talk about a vacation from hell! Between villa disasters and a body count, this trip went south fast. I honestly wasn't sure what was more terrifying: the "best friend" group dynamics or the actual murder.
While the story was fast-paced and kept my attention, the plot felt a bit familiar compared to other whodunits, and the final twist didn't quite deliver the "shock" I was hoping for.
I’d recommend skipping the audiobook for this one. With split timelines and six different characters, it was difficult to track who was speaking. Stick to the physical copy for this mystery!
Overall, I’d give this story 3 stars.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the ARC.
While the story was fast-paced and kept my attention, the plot felt a bit familiar compared to other whodunits, and the final twist didn't quite deliver the "shock" I was hoping for.
I’d recommend skipping the audiobook for this one. With split timelines and six different characters, it was difficult to track who was speaking. Stick to the physical copy for this mystery!
Overall, I’d give this story 3 stars.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is my first book by Barbara in quite a while and it did not disappoint! Alexis books a villa and invites her friends to Spain to celebrate her 40th birthday. Some of the women have secrets they a guarding but when someone dies hidden secrets start to come out. Will anyone else die? Is someone trying to get revenge? This twisty thriller will keep you on your toes and guessing who did it. I really enjoyed this book, it held my interest right from the first page. Highly recommend this book!
Publication date 30 March 2026
Publication date 30 March 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC! As a thriller lover, the description and premise of the book pulled me in. While there were many back-and-forths with flashbacks and current events, this was still a page turner. The intrigue was akin to The White Lotus (i’d binged through all first 3 seasons in 1.5 months!) and i enjoyed how the backstory came into light for the actions of today. Cause and effect. Barbara Copperthwaite’s writing made me hate some of the characters, which is the making of a good author. 4.5🌟!
March 15, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of this book!
Overall? This is a very fun, fast-paced whodunit.
A group of childhood friends reunite in Spain to celebrate a 40th birthday at a stunning villa—until the storm of the century traps them together and the trip ends with three of them dead.
What unfolds is a masterfully woven web of lies, secrets, and betrayals that have been simmering beneath decades of friendship.
Would recommend if you like reads that are entertaining, twisty, and a great pick if you love messy friendships and layered secrets.
Overall? This is a very fun, fast-paced whodunit.
A group of childhood friends reunite in Spain to celebrate a 40th birthday at a stunning villa—until the storm of the century traps them together and the trip ends with three of them dead.
What unfolds is a masterfully woven web of lies, secrets, and betrayals that have been simmering beneath decades of friendship.
Would recommend if you like reads that are entertaining, twisty, and a great pick if you love messy friendships and layered secrets.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Advanced reading copy
Just between us by Barbara Copperthwaite is the perfect combination of friendship , mystery and twists.
What should of been a holiday party for Alexis and her 5 friends in Spain turned into a disaster.
I went into this novel witu not high expectations as I've never heard of this author but I was blown away. I was hooked to this book from the first chapter where we discover Alexis's body all the way to the epic reveal at the end, Barbara perfectly captivated the tension of all thr characters and situation of the storm around them
Just between us by Barbara Copperthwaite is the perfect combination of friendship , mystery and twists.
What should of been a holiday party for Alexis and her 5 friends in Spain turned into a disaster.
I went into this novel witu not high expectations as I've never heard of this author but I was blown away. I was hooked to this book from the first chapter where we discover Alexis's body all the way to the epic reveal at the end, Barbara perfectly captivated the tension of all thr characters and situation of the storm around them
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Alexis wants to celebrate her birthday in style. So to make it special she books a luxury villa for her and her friends. There is no expense spared for these life long friends.
But as we soon find out there are simmering tensions in the group. Then Alexis is found dead in a locked room with one of their friends. Obviously an open and shut case. But is it.
As a violent storm rages the women are trapped together. And it’s not long before there’s another death. Who is the killer and why?
A perfect who dunnit.
But as we soon find out there are simmering tensions in the group. Then Alexis is found dead in a locked room with one of their friends. Obviously an open and shut case. But is it.
As a violent storm rages the women are trapped together. And it’s not long before there’s another death. Who is the killer and why?
A perfect who dunnit.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
Six friends from England go to Spain to celebrate Alexis's 40th birthday. They have all been tight since high school but they all have a lot of secrets, and someone is going to die. Enjoyable locked room/house mystery. There were a lot of characters and it was a bit confusing in the beginning of the audiobook as I couldn't flip back to confirm who is who. I appreciate my friends more after meeting this group.
I enjoyed the narration by Naomi Frederick and Sophie Roberts.
4 stars
Six friends from England go to Spain to celebrate Alexis's 40th birthday. They have all been tight since high school but they all have a lot of secrets, and someone is going to die. Enjoyable locked room/house mystery. There were a lot of characters and it was a bit confusing in the beginning of the audiobook as I couldn't flip back to confirm who is who. I appreciate my friends more after meeting this group.
I enjoyed the narration by Naomi Frederick and Sophie Roberts.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you have terrible best friends then this is the book for you. When a group of girls who have been friends for decades go away, secrets are revealed, lives taken and blood shed. Not everyone is going to make it home alive- and frankly they shouldn’t. Lots of twists and turns and excellent audio quality, thanks NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The tension build-up in this book was so well done. With each chapter, it felt like time was slowly running out for the women. The story follows a group of best friends who travel to a luxury villa in Spain to celebrate one of their birthdays. At first, everything is fun, exciting, and carefree. Until it’s not. Things start going wrong seemingly out of nowhere, and the birthday girl ends up dead. The killer appears to be one of her best friends, except she can’t remember anything that happened. With an intense storm brewing outside, the pressure inside the villa only grows as she desperately tries to piece together what happened before someone else ends up dead.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A great whodunnit mystery in a locked room. It was full of lies, betrayals and it was an amazing read that I couldn’t stop reading from start to finish. With much thanks to NetGalley and to the publisher Bookouture for another fantastic ARC.
March 25, 2026
I was given a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
I did not want to put this book down! Polly, Annie, Alexis, Nic, Selin and Catherine have so many twisted secrets that you won’t know who is lying and who is being honest. Or are any of them really honest?
I did not want to put this book down! Polly, Annie, Alexis, Nic, Selin and Catherine have so many twisted secrets that you won’t know who is lying and who is being honest. Or are any of them really honest?
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