Clare Mackintosh has long been one of my “auto-buy” authors, but with It’s Not What You Think, she has truly outdone herself. Known for her ability to pull the rug out from under the reader, Mackintosh delivers a psychological thriller that is as emotionally resonant as it is terrifyingly clever.
A Masterclass in Deception
The title itself feels a like a challenge to the reader. From the very first chapter, Mackintosh sets up a premise that feels solid, only to spend the rest of the book systematically dismantling everything you think you know.
The clever storyline is built like a house of mirrors. Just when you think you’ve nailed down a character’s motive or figured out the timeline, a subtle shift in perspective changes the entire landscape of the mystery. It’s the kind of book where you find yourself flipping back to previous pages to see the clues you missed (and they are always there, hidden in plain sight).
What makes this book such a relentless page-turner isn’t just the “Who” behind the mystery, but the “How” and “Why.” Mackintosh dives deep into the psychology of her characters, making their actions feel chillingly plausible.
- The Pacing: The chapters are tight and punchy, ending on cliffhangers that make “just one more chapter” an impossible promise to keep.
- The “Need to Know”: There is a visceral sense of urgency in the writing. You don’t just want to finish the book; you need to understand the mechanics of how the situation spiraled so far out of control.
Why Mackintosh Remains a Favorite
As a longtime fan, I’m always looking for that specific blend of high-stakes tension and human vulnerability that she does so well. It’s Not What You Think delivers on all fronts. It’s polished, sophisticated, and genuinely surprising. She doesn’t rely on cheap gimmicks; the twists keep you guessing because they are rooted in character flaws and secrets that feel incredibly real.
Final Verdict
If you enjoy thrillers that challenge your assumptions and keep your heart rate up, this is a must-read. It is a brilliant reminder of why Clare Mackintosh is a titan of the genre. Prepare for a late night, because once the first twist hits, you won’t be able to put this down until the final, shocking reveal.
One More Chapter 