Nasty Little Secrets - the search for an author's missing sister could provide answers to a decade-old murder, blamed on her brother.

Rose Dearling has fiercely stood by her older brother Will since he was sentenced to life in prison over ten years ago for the strangling murder of his girlfriend, Alexandria Smiley. Despite the overwhelming evidence, Rose remains determined to prove his innocence. She authored The Smiley's Next Door, a fictionalized true crime account of the case with an altered ending, attributing the Florida murder to Alexandria's father, Gary. The book became a bestseller, but after Gary committed suicide, Rose faced a barrage of criticism and blame. When another girl is reported missing in Palm Beach County, Rose believes it may be linked to Alexandria's death, offering new hope for her mission to exonerate Will. Then her own sixteen-year-old sister, Hazel, is reported missing. Rose travels from New York to Florida to help search for her sister.

Nasty Little Secrets is an impressive debut thriller by Gabbie Hanks. The book alternates between the present and the past, focusing on the events leading up to the murder. Rose moved to New York City to distance herself from her parents, whom she feels have been disloyal to Will. Her married brother Tommy remains ambivalent and unsupportive of her ongoing efforts to appeal the case. Rose had neglected her younger sister Hazel, and now guilt-ridden, she is even more determined to uncover the identity of Alexandria's murderer, convinced it will lead her to Hazel. The author presents several credible suspects and keeps the mystery going at a good, brisk pace. It's a strong effort from a first-time novelist and former librarian.

Many thanks to Zando for the advance copy, set near where I live, adding to the appeal. 

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Mystery Thriller.

Publication Date: June 16, 2026.

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