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The Memory Watcher
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
6 days and 04:42:03
100 copies available
U.S. only
When Autumn Carpenter stumbles upon the social media account of the family who adopted her infant daughter years ago, she finds herself instantly drawn into their picture-perfect existence.
From behind a computer screen, Autumn watches Grace's every memory, from birthdays to holidays to bedtime snuggles. But what starts as an innocent fascination spirals into an addictive obsession met with a screeching halt the day the McMullen family closes their Instaface account without so much as a warning.
Frantic and desperate to reconnect with her daughter, Autumn applies for a nanny position with the McMullens, manipulating herself into Grace's life under false pretenses. And it's only then that Autumn discovers pictures lie, the perfect family doesn't exist, and beautiful people? They have the ugliest secrets.
From behind a computer screen, Autumn watches Grace's every memory, from birthdays to holidays to bedtime snuggles. But what starts as an innocent fascination spirals into an addictive obsession met with a screeching halt the day the McMullen family closes their Instaface account without so much as a warning.
Frantic and desperate to reconnect with her daughter, Autumn applies for a nanny position with the McMullens, manipulating herself into Grace's life under false pretenses. And it's only then that Autumn discovers pictures lie, the perfect family doesn't exist, and beautiful people? They have the ugliest secrets.
338 pages, ebook
First published December 31, 2016
6,880 people are currently reading
18.3k people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,675 reviews
September 9, 2017
THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING. I don't think I'm going to write a full on review, because you should just pick this up and go in blind. Seriously, I'm not sure I've been this into a domestic thriller for quite sometime. This title was included in my Kindle Unlimited membership, but if you'd like to purchase the ebook it's only $3.99 (at the time of this writing). HIGHLY recommended; I just want to talk about nothing but this book for the next week.
June 19, 2018
Word of Caution: Run Do Not Walk to Your Nearest Book Store to Purchase This Book!
This book may induce feelings of confusion, malingering, force-feeding this to all of your friends, and a possible book hangover
This was a Traveling Sisters group read and I absolutely loved it! I lapped up every single page and I couldn’t put it down. There are several reasons why I adored this book:
1) Secrets
2) Obsession
3) Plot Twists
4) Page-Turner
5) Creepy Child (Think watered down version of “The Bad Seed�)
This book is not to be missed!
For more Traveling Sisters Reviews, please visit:
This book may induce feelings of confusion, malingering, force-feeding this to all of your friends, and a possible book hangover
This was a Traveling Sisters group read and I absolutely loved it! I lapped up every single page and I couldn’t put it down. There are several reasons why I adored this book:
1) Secrets
2) Obsession
3) Plot Twists
4) Page-Turner
5) Creepy Child (Think watered down version of “The Bad Seed�)
This book is not to be missed!
For more Traveling Sisters Reviews, please visit:
February 26, 2018
4.5*
The chance to step out of your mundane, everyday life and become someone new.
Autumn likes to troll social media. Find interesting people and revamp herself to...well become that person. When she ultimately grows bored of that persona, a new one is just a couple clicks away on her computer.
“It’s exhausting being me!�
The other purpose for surfing the net is to keep a vigilant eye on her daughter, who she gave up at birth.
When the adoptive mom’s family blog goes dark, Autumn ramps up her mama-bear focus in order to keep watch over her daughter.
“The darkness naturally hides the things we don’t want to see.�
This is a very clever and engaging psychological thriller that I just flew through! Kept me on my toes! And the ending...a complete shocker!
This was my first read by this author but will definitely be watching for more from her!! Highly recommend!
As always a super fun Traveling Sister read 🤗
The chance to step out of your mundane, everyday life and become someone new.
Autumn likes to troll social media. Find interesting people and revamp herself to...well become that person. When she ultimately grows bored of that persona, a new one is just a couple clicks away on her computer.
“It’s exhausting being me!�
The other purpose for surfing the net is to keep a vigilant eye on her daughter, who she gave up at birth.
When the adoptive mom’s family blog goes dark, Autumn ramps up her mama-bear focus in order to keep watch over her daughter.
“The darkness naturally hides the things we don’t want to see.�
This is a very clever and engaging psychological thriller that I just flew through! Kept me on my toes! And the ending...a complete shocker!
This was my first read by this author but will definitely be watching for more from her!! Highly recommend!
As always a super fun Traveling Sister read 🤗
February 13, 2018
4.5 stars
Binge Worthy ! Yes, it is that addictive.
The riveting suspense had me losing track of time. I love how a book can keep you alert and completely lost in the story. My mind was spinning with thoughts about each of the characters and trying to figure out just what their angle and motivation was. I knew from the first chapters that I was going to enjoy this twisted journey.
Autumn obsesses over a social media account (similar to Instagram) of a woman, Daphne McMullen, who adopted her newborn child, Grace. This account has given her a "window" into their picture perfect life through snapshots of a home worthy of a thumbs up from Martha Stewart herself. Autumn has been able to watch her child grow and has experienced milestones "virtually".
All is well until one day Autumn's world comes crashing down when the McMullen's Instaface account is closed. She feels she has lost her daughter and she is feeling desperate. Things get propelled into a whole new light when Autumn is hired as the couples nanny, but she fails to tell them she is the biological mother of Grace! Uh oh, can you see the potential problems that might occur? Especially since Daphne has two other children.
Autumn gets more than a "peek" into the behind the camera lives of the McMullen's and she can't help but try and hold this family together for Grace's sake. After all, her daughter deserves the very best! The question is....how far will she go to ensure they stay together?
I was shocked as each twisted secret was revealed. I loved the author's writing and how she was able to catapult the secrets from one chapter to the next. This is what made it so addictive.
I'm not sure what to think about the end (which lost 1/2 star from me). Yes, it was shocking, but it left me somewhat mystified! I also wanted to know more about another character,but can't mention that here (spoiler). Highly recommend to psychological thriller addicts like me!
Binge Worthy ! Yes, it is that addictive.
The riveting suspense had me losing track of time. I love how a book can keep you alert and completely lost in the story. My mind was spinning with thoughts about each of the characters and trying to figure out just what their angle and motivation was. I knew from the first chapters that I was going to enjoy this twisted journey.
Autumn obsesses over a social media account (similar to Instagram) of a woman, Daphne McMullen, who adopted her newborn child, Grace. This account has given her a "window" into their picture perfect life through snapshots of a home worthy of a thumbs up from Martha Stewart herself. Autumn has been able to watch her child grow and has experienced milestones "virtually".
All is well until one day Autumn's world comes crashing down when the McMullen's Instaface account is closed. She feels she has lost her daughter and she is feeling desperate. Things get propelled into a whole new light when Autumn is hired as the couples nanny, but she fails to tell them she is the biological mother of Grace! Uh oh, can you see the potential problems that might occur? Especially since Daphne has two other children.
Autumn gets more than a "peek" into the behind the camera lives of the McMullen's and she can't help but try and hold this family together for Grace's sake. After all, her daughter deserves the very best! The question is....how far will she go to ensure they stay together?
I was shocked as each twisted secret was revealed. I loved the author's writing and how she was able to catapult the secrets from one chapter to the next. This is what made it so addictive.
I'm not sure what to think about the end (which lost 1/2 star from me). Yes, it was shocking, but it left me somewhat mystified! I also wanted to know more about another character,but can't mention that here (spoiler). Highly recommend to psychological thriller addicts like me!
February 5, 2017
Oh my goodnesss.......!!!
First off I have to say thank you to my kindle for recommending this hidden little gem of a novel to me! I am SOO glad that I came across this book and author. I have to say this is definitely one of my top novels for 2017!!!
Have to start with the cover..... beautiful! And it fits the storyline SOOOO well!!!
Minka Kent thank you for getting me out of my psychological book rut! I have to say I was feeling a little disappointed from all of the books that I have been reading lately in this genre BUT man this book was THE shi.....t!
This is a strong 5++++++ for me!!! I'm not even sure where to start with this one. And wow this was a debut novel! From the beginning you are grabbed right away until the end. AND holy cow that TWIST! THIS is what I LONG in novels and Minka boy did you deliver my friend haha.
The characters were all well delivered in this novel especially our main character Autumn Carpenter... right away you see and feel something is not quite right about her and she has some emotional/psychological issues. And can I just say how I loved the social media twist to it all... because let's be honest social media can be pretty dangerous at times. People can portray and act a certain way on the internet... hiding behind who they truly are (yikes.... as we see in this novel).
Highly recommended if you are a fan of psychological novels!!! I CANNOT wait to read Thinnest Air! I am anxiously awaiting to see when the next novel is published!
First off I have to say thank you to my kindle for recommending this hidden little gem of a novel to me! I am SOO glad that I came across this book and author. I have to say this is definitely one of my top novels for 2017!!!
Have to start with the cover..... beautiful! And it fits the storyline SOOOO well!!!
Minka Kent thank you for getting me out of my psychological book rut! I have to say I was feeling a little disappointed from all of the books that I have been reading lately in this genre BUT man this book was THE shi.....t!
This is a strong 5++++++ for me!!! I'm not even sure where to start with this one. And wow this was a debut novel! From the beginning you are grabbed right away until the end. AND holy cow that TWIST! THIS is what I LONG in novels and Minka boy did you deliver my friend haha.
The characters were all well delivered in this novel especially our main character Autumn Carpenter... right away you see and feel something is not quite right about her and she has some emotional/psychological issues. And can I just say how I loved the social media twist to it all... because let's be honest social media can be pretty dangerous at times. People can portray and act a certain way on the internet... hiding behind who they truly are (yikes.... as we see in this novel).
Highly recommended if you are a fan of psychological novels!!! I CANNOT wait to read Thinnest Air! I am anxiously awaiting to see when the next novel is published!
May 20, 2021
My reviews can also be seen at:
The synopsis for this novel instantly intrigued me. Books that have anything to do with social media are my kryptonite and from the description and the reviews I read, I knew it was one I had to read. I was pretty sure this was going to be a book I would really enjoy.
I was right.
� I found her, it took three years but I found her�
The book opens with a twenty-five year old, Autumn Carpenter searching online for posts that Daphne McMullen has put up of her daughter, Grace. She looks at every picture and reads every post she can find. For now, social media provides access to three-year-old Grace�.HER Grace. “She is theirs but she is also mine�.
But it’s not just Grace she’s taken an interest in�
Autumn likes to envision herself as other people, likes the things they like, etc. She does her hair like theirs and buys the things they buy. She pictures herself in their homes. But everyone likes to pretend sometimes�.
But for Autumn this is more than playing pretend.
Daphne McMullen seems to have it all. But we know that so many things can and do go on behind-closed doors (and computer screens).
Is Daphne’s life really as perfect as it seems?
Then one day Autumn is online as usual, hoping to get her “fix� of Daphne and family when a message pops up. “No results found�. She searches everywhere but she can’t find Daphne‘s account. Everything is gone. She feels like she can’t breathe. She doesn’t know what to do.
“My gateway to Grace’s life has come to a screeching halt just like that�
Autumn HAS to find a way to see what is going on in Grace’s life. What will she do to make that happen?
I really enjoyed this novel. I was totally invested in the lives of the characters, anxious to find out what was going to happen next.
As I mentioned, I love stories that involve social media and the online world played a big part in this novel. But the rest of the story was great too. An intriguing and engaging story about secrets, lies, deception, obsession, and more that I finished in just a few sittings.
This was my first novel from Minka Kent, but I know it won’t be my last.
The synopsis for this novel instantly intrigued me. Books that have anything to do with social media are my kryptonite and from the description and the reviews I read, I knew it was one I had to read. I was pretty sure this was going to be a book I would really enjoy.
I was right.
� I found her, it took three years but I found her�
The book opens with a twenty-five year old, Autumn Carpenter searching online for posts that Daphne McMullen has put up of her daughter, Grace. She looks at every picture and reads every post she can find. For now, social media provides access to three-year-old Grace�.HER Grace. “She is theirs but she is also mine�.
But it’s not just Grace she’s taken an interest in�
Autumn likes to envision herself as other people, likes the things they like, etc. She does her hair like theirs and buys the things they buy. She pictures herself in their homes. But everyone likes to pretend sometimes�.
But for Autumn this is more than playing pretend.
Daphne McMullen seems to have it all. But we know that so many things can and do go on behind-closed doors (and computer screens).
Is Daphne’s life really as perfect as it seems?
Then one day Autumn is online as usual, hoping to get her “fix� of Daphne and family when a message pops up. “No results found�. She searches everywhere but she can’t find Daphne‘s account. Everything is gone. She feels like she can’t breathe. She doesn’t know what to do.
“My gateway to Grace’s life has come to a screeching halt just like that�
Autumn HAS to find a way to see what is going on in Grace’s life. What will she do to make that happen?
I really enjoyed this novel. I was totally invested in the lives of the characters, anxious to find out what was going to happen next.
As I mentioned, I love stories that involve social media and the online world played a big part in this novel. But the rest of the story was great too. An intriguing and engaging story about secrets, lies, deception, obsession, and more that I finished in just a few sittings.
This was my first novel from Minka Kent, but I know it won’t be my last.
March 29, 2018
Original and Compelling, a terrific thriller that was suspenseful and twisted
When Autumn Carpenter stumbles upon the social media account of the family who adopted her infant daughter years ago, she finds herself instantly drawn into their picture-perfect existence.
An engaging read from page one, with a fresh and well thought out story line which didn't stay into disbelief territory and a book that I looked forward to picking up each evening.
I love the genre of Thriller/suspense when done well and Minka Kent certainly gets has nailed this one. Just enough twists and turns to keep the book engaging and fresh.
A fast paced novel with a plot that delivers and I certainly look forward to reading other novels by this author.
Recommend for readers who enjoyed books like or
might well enjoy this book too.
I listened to this one on audible and really enjoyed the narration.
When Autumn Carpenter stumbles upon the social media account of the family who adopted her infant daughter years ago, she finds herself instantly drawn into their picture-perfect existence.
An engaging read from page one, with a fresh and well thought out story line which didn't stay into disbelief territory and a book that I looked forward to picking up each evening.
I love the genre of Thriller/suspense when done well and Minka Kent certainly gets has nailed this one. Just enough twists and turns to keep the book engaging and fresh.
A fast paced novel with a plot that delivers and I certainly look forward to reading other novels by this author.
Recommend for readers who enjoyed books like or
might well enjoy this book too.
I listened to this one on audible and really enjoyed the narration.
July 19, 2023
This novel is very “readable.� It keeps a quick pace, and it’s not boring.
Reviewing my notes, the amount of times I questioned Autumn—either her sanity or the possibility of a setup for an unreliable narrator—was numerous.
It’s rather hilarious when Autumn remarks that people like Marnie need to get off their phones and the Internet…when that’s all she herself does.
Ben is genuinely a nice guy—probably the only truly likable character in the book.
The first twist is somewhat telegraphed, but still interesting. The second twist works as well.
However, things totally fall apart in this story at approximately 85%. It really was headed for 4-star territory. Tropes of unexplained and bizarre mental illness, as well as inexplicable actions by the main characters, feel cheap. The conclusion is something out of a dreadful soap opera. The author’s work chugs along well—until she realizes that her plot actually needs to culminate in *something.*
“Beautiful people…keep the ugliest secrets.�
Reviewing my notes, the amount of times I questioned Autumn—either her sanity or the possibility of a setup for an unreliable narrator—was numerous.
It’s rather hilarious when Autumn remarks that people like Marnie need to get off their phones and the Internet…when that’s all she herself does.
Ben is genuinely a nice guy—probably the only truly likable character in the book.
The first twist is somewhat telegraphed, but still interesting. The second twist works as well.
However, things totally fall apart in this story at approximately 85%. It really was headed for 4-star territory. Tropes of unexplained and bizarre mental illness, as well as inexplicable actions by the main characters, feel cheap. The conclusion is something out of a dreadful soap opera. The author’s work chugs along well—until she realizes that her plot actually needs to culminate in *something.*
“Beautiful people…keep the ugliest secrets.�
October 20, 2019
My thoughts in a nutshell
It was a totally random choice, but I'm so glad that I decided to pick it up. I added this one to my TBR because I saw so many great reviews. I started it with extremely limited expectation and I have to say I can agree with all the positive thoughts.
I was dumb and I read two similar thrillers at the same time and it was a hard time to separate them inside my head. Despite my stupidness, I can remember the whole plot vividly.
Nowadays, so many thriller writers choose 'the nanny' trope for their books' main point. I'm here for it, I admire all ideas around baby-sitters.
The writing style was excellent. Simple, truly fresh, easy to follow. It seems my taste can resonate with Minka Kent's style.
To be honest, I'm not so good at predicting a book's ending, so the plot-twist was surprised me.
My only problem was with the characters. I don't like any of them. I can't connect to anybody, and it always bugged me. I usually don't care if a character is fucked up if I can relate to it.
Overall, I recommend it if you are looking for some pretty light thriller, but you should keep low in your expectations as I did.
I gave it 4 stars. It is a good book, but it is far from a five stars.
April 9, 2017
Maybe I should just avoid these psychological thrillers for a while. Sheesh, I have actually read a handful of really good ones but this, unfortunately, was not one of them. Also unfortunately, so many of them are pretty lame. OK, I think its my fault. I have a very logical brain and the actions taken by many of the characters populating these so-called psch thrillers are really, really dumb!
Although there was a twist - that is, everything you thought you knew through most of the book got blown out of the water at the end; par for the course of course as nothing can ever, ever be simple, I ended up wondering what the point of the story was. It was just full of sad, pathetic characters, none of whom were particularly likeable, and then they turned out to be something different anyway. Meh.
It dragged along to the point where I just didn't care any more except to wonder why the bloody hell Autumn didn't just go out and get a life. Not that I cared.
Although there was a twist - that is, everything you thought you knew through most of the book got blown out of the water at the end; par for the course of course as nothing can ever, ever be simple, I ended up wondering what the point of the story was. It was just full of sad, pathetic characters, none of whom were particularly likeable, and then they turned out to be something different anyway. Meh.
It dragged along to the point where I just didn't care any more except to wonder why the bloody hell Autumn didn't just go out and get a life. Not that I cared.
February 21, 2018
Things aren't always as they seem, and in this book nothing was as it seems....
Autumn gave up her baby for adoption at a very young age, but through social media she was able to watch her daughter grow up.... she became a bit obsessed; watching her daughter grow up in the perfect family, with her new perfect mother Daphne.... wow! This book sure was full of lots of twists and turns, lots of things I never saw coming, not sure who was more twisted autumn or Daphne??? This was definitely a good psychological thriller, with not only one but two on reliable narrator's..... if you are a fan of this genre I definitely recommend...
Autumn gave up her baby for adoption at a very young age, but through social media she was able to watch her daughter grow up.... she became a bit obsessed; watching her daughter grow up in the perfect family, with her new perfect mother Daphne.... wow! This book sure was full of lots of twists and turns, lots of things I never saw coming, not sure who was more twisted autumn or Daphne??? This was definitely a good psychological thriller, with not only one but two on reliable narrator's..... if you are a fan of this genre I definitely recommend...
April 16, 2017
Dear Reader,
Autumn Carpenter is a twenty five year old mother.......except she no longer plays an active part in her baby's life. The baby she gave birth to,some ten years ago,was adopted and is now in the care of someone else.
Being social-media savvy,she locates her little girl,Grace,now being happily raised by the rich and successful McMullen family.
Despite the fact that Grace is happily ensconced in a loving family with two siblings, Autumn cannot fight the maternal urge to be closer to her little girl,and decides to reside in the McMullen neighbourhood.
However,seeing Grace's daily interactions with Daphne and Graham and the love they shower on her is difficult,especially as she is so close yet so far away.
But does this picture of pure perfection and family harmony resemble reality?
Are the numerous social media posts marking these happy,child centred times a fabrication?
Or is there another reality at play,one that is hidden behind the veneer of a large house and a plentiful supply of cash?
And what of Autumn? Why is she so eager to maintain a relationship with a man she so
clearly dislikes,and what are the motivating factors that compel her to act in this way?
Dear Reader,I've had the pleasure of reading a wealth of psychological thrillers,'who-dun-its' and general crime books in the past, books that have thrilled, surprised and amazed me,but one never quite as 'different' as this one!!
To say that it's a little left of centre fails to do justice to its many twists and turns,the intrigue and cleverness of the plot line compelling me,forcibly urging me on,page after page,to find out exactly what was going to happen next!
To say that I was surprised by the ending would lead you to believe that it traversed the 'normal' twisted path,but believe me,that is far from the truth!!
To say more on this subject would risk me divulging information that would render this book spoilt for future readers.
Therefore I will resist the temptation but suffice it to say that I urge all fans seeking a 'psychological thrill with a twist' to read this!!
This is the author's debut novel!!
Bravo for such a fantastic story!!!
I'm anxiously anticipating the next book!!
Autumn Carpenter is a twenty five year old mother.......except she no longer plays an active part in her baby's life. The baby she gave birth to,some ten years ago,was adopted and is now in the care of someone else.
Being social-media savvy,she locates her little girl,Grace,now being happily raised by the rich and successful McMullen family.
Despite the fact that Grace is happily ensconced in a loving family with two siblings, Autumn cannot fight the maternal urge to be closer to her little girl,and decides to reside in the McMullen neighbourhood.
However,seeing Grace's daily interactions with Daphne and Graham and the love they shower on her is difficult,especially as she is so close yet so far away.
But does this picture of pure perfection and family harmony resemble reality?
Are the numerous social media posts marking these happy,child centred times a fabrication?
Or is there another reality at play,one that is hidden behind the veneer of a large house and a plentiful supply of cash?
And what of Autumn? Why is she so eager to maintain a relationship with a man she so
clearly dislikes,and what are the motivating factors that compel her to act in this way?
Dear Reader,I've had the pleasure of reading a wealth of psychological thrillers,'who-dun-its' and general crime books in the past, books that have thrilled, surprised and amazed me,but one never quite as 'different' as this one!!
To say that it's a little left of centre fails to do justice to its many twists and turns,the intrigue and cleverness of the plot line compelling me,forcibly urging me on,page after page,to find out exactly what was going to happen next!
To say that I was surprised by the ending would lead you to believe that it traversed the 'normal' twisted path,but believe me,that is far from the truth!!
To say more on this subject would risk me divulging information that would render this book spoilt for future readers.
Therefore I will resist the temptation but suffice it to say that I urge all fans seeking a 'psychological thrill with a twist' to read this!!
This is the author's debut novel!!
Bravo for such a fantastic story!!!
I'm anxiously anticipating the next book!!
April 28, 2025
� My Overall Thoughts �
This book is very dark and centered around social media and obsession! It is an eerie fictional novel that kept me fully engaged while reading it. This has psychological thriller and mystery vibes. It is a medium paced read with the flaw of the female main character as the main focus. It was well written and emotional. This book blurs the lines with appearance versus reality.
� Book Synopsis �
“The Memory Watcher� is about a girl named Autumn Carpenter, who watches a Family’s social media account. She starts becoming obsessed with this family, all through a screen. In her head, she thinks that this is a perfect family. Autumn ends up applying as a nanny for this picture perfect family, only to find out that this family is far from perfect. As the story unravels, we discover all the secrets of this family and how Autumn handles everything. Overall, I rate this a 3 out of 5 stars!
� Content Warnings �
Content warnings include death, mental illness, sexual content, violence and murder.
� Who I think would enjoy this book �
People that would like reading this book would be fans of authors Freida McFadden and John Marrs.
� Thank You �
Thank you to NetGalley, author Minka Kent and Thomas & Mercer for this advanced revised copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
� Notes �
This is a revised edition of this book. It is expected to be published on May 6, 2025!
� Quick Review �
💎 Obsession vs. Reality
◾️ Motherhood and Regret
💎 Mystery / Thriller
◾️ Dark vibes
💎 Appearance vs. Reality
◾️ Multiple timelines
💎 Manipulation & Control
◾️ The power of memory
�* � � ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。� � � ˚�
� ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ �
ツ౨�
This book is very dark and centered around social media and obsession! It is an eerie fictional novel that kept me fully engaged while reading it. This has psychological thriller and mystery vibes. It is a medium paced read with the flaw of the female main character as the main focus. It was well written and emotional. This book blurs the lines with appearance versus reality.
� Book Synopsis �
“The Memory Watcher� is about a girl named Autumn Carpenter, who watches a Family’s social media account. She starts becoming obsessed with this family, all through a screen. In her head, she thinks that this is a perfect family. Autumn ends up applying as a nanny for this picture perfect family, only to find out that this family is far from perfect. As the story unravels, we discover all the secrets of this family and how Autumn handles everything. Overall, I rate this a 3 out of 5 stars!
� Content Warnings �
Content warnings include death, mental illness, sexual content, violence and murder.
� Who I think would enjoy this book �
People that would like reading this book would be fans of authors Freida McFadden and John Marrs.
� Thank You �
Thank you to NetGalley, author Minka Kent and Thomas & Mercer for this advanced revised copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
� Notes �
This is a revised edition of this book. It is expected to be published on May 6, 2025!
� Quick Review �
💎 Obsession vs. Reality
◾️ Motherhood and Regret
💎 Mystery / Thriller
◾️ Dark vibes
💎 Appearance vs. Reality
◾️ Multiple timelines
💎 Manipulation & Control
◾️ The power of memory
�* � � ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。� � � ˚�
� ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ �
ツ౨�
September 19, 2017
Unbelievable. And not unbelievable like "wow! This is so great it's unbelievable!" No, it is "say what??!! That doesn't mesh." Unbelievable, inconsistent, and just not what I thought it would be. The emotions don't match the actions, something is said in one chapter and completely contradicts the statement a chapter or two later. The MC is annoying as hell, the "twist" predictable and the ending just doesn't jive. I felt like I was reading a few different books all at the same time. 👎🏼
February 22, 2018
My original rating was 4.5, but let’s go all the way to a full blown FIVE didn’t-see-that-coming-at-all rating!
The Memory Watcher is an awesome psychological thriller about a girl named Autumn Carpenter. Autumn gave up her infant daughter at birth. Thanks to the world of social media, Autumn finds her daughter’s adoptive family. Through the social media site, Instaface (basically like Faux Instagram), Autumn follows her daughter’s adoptive mother, Daphne, and keeps tabs on their wonderful, beautiful, perfect life. BUT, as is the nature of social media, not everything is at it seems. Autumn eventually finds a way into her daughter’s life and quickly realizes that looks (and posts) can be deceiving.
Told from the alternating perspectives of Autumn and Daphne, The Memory Watcher is fast-paced and full of twists. I did not, in anyway shape or form, guess the ending of this book! This is a fantastic, original, psychological thriller that I would highly recommend. I enjoyed it so much, I immediately downloaded another book by Minka Kent.
This was another fun Traveling Sisters read! I thoroughly enjoyed discussing this with everyone. For more, visit the Traveling Sisters blog at the following link:
The Memory Watcher is an awesome psychological thriller about a girl named Autumn Carpenter. Autumn gave up her infant daughter at birth. Thanks to the world of social media, Autumn finds her daughter’s adoptive family. Through the social media site, Instaface (basically like Faux Instagram), Autumn follows her daughter’s adoptive mother, Daphne, and keeps tabs on their wonderful, beautiful, perfect life. BUT, as is the nature of social media, not everything is at it seems. Autumn eventually finds a way into her daughter’s life and quickly realizes that looks (and posts) can be deceiving.
Told from the alternating perspectives of Autumn and Daphne, The Memory Watcher is fast-paced and full of twists. I did not, in anyway shape or form, guess the ending of this book! This is a fantastic, original, psychological thriller that I would highly recommend. I enjoyed it so much, I immediately downloaded another book by Minka Kent.
This was another fun Traveling Sisters read! I thoroughly enjoyed discussing this with everyone. For more, visit the Traveling Sisters blog at the following link:
January 14, 2018
I have just finished The Memory Watcher by Minka Kent & I must say this is the best Psychological thriller I have read in a long time its the best book I have read in this genre.
I wont go into a full review as there is so much in this novel that blew my mind, the characters were so dysfunctional in both couples I was turning the pages as fast as I could to find out what was happening with each person lets just say its a very well written psychological thriller that kept me engaged with each character, even though I found them so off the beaten track.
this was very dark & disturbing a mother who had it all a loving husband or so we thought until you get into daphnia's life she had 3 children who lets just say were not the average children a husband who had an affair Graeme was a business man who cared about nothing but his business Daphne was also fractured meeting drug dealer Mitch to overcome her existence with not wanting to be a mother anyway by using drugs & was with Mitch.
then you have Autumn who gave up her child & wanted to be in the McMullen's life she was manic, delusional, obsessive she drove me mad but by the time I had finished reading this I felt compassion as all she wanted was her daughter Grace back.
To finish off I found this one a real page turner a quick read for me & enjoyable I think Miss Kent is an author to watch & will definitely read more.
I wont go into a full review as there is so much in this novel that blew my mind, the characters were so dysfunctional in both couples I was turning the pages as fast as I could to find out what was happening with each person lets just say its a very well written psychological thriller that kept me engaged with each character, even though I found them so off the beaten track.
this was very dark & disturbing a mother who had it all a loving husband or so we thought until you get into daphnia's life she had 3 children who lets just say were not the average children a husband who had an affair Graeme was a business man who cared about nothing but his business Daphne was also fractured meeting drug dealer Mitch to overcome her existence with not wanting to be a mother anyway by using drugs & was with Mitch.
then you have Autumn who gave up her child & wanted to be in the McMullen's life she was manic, delusional, obsessive she drove me mad but by the time I had finished reading this I felt compassion as all she wanted was her daughter Grace back.
To finish off I found this one a real page turner a quick read for me & enjoyable I think Miss Kent is an author to watch & will definitely read more.
February 14, 2020
3.75 Stars
I don’t know why it took me so long to read this book, because I know this author by her other book ("The Perfect Roommate") that I enjoyed! When I started reading the story I couldn’t decide to trust which characters (which mother) and in the end, it surprised me and I think it will surprise you as well (if you still haven’t read it yet, that’s it!). So, this was a good read for me but my only major complaint was the slow pacing! Actually not the pacing itself but taking too long till something happened! It was good written, a compelling read, you know I’m not a big fan of slow thrillers so you could guess how addictive this one was. Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novel. it contains short chapters with unreliable characters. All in all, it was an enjoyable read and hope you’d love it!
I don’t know why it took me so long to read this book, because I know this author by her other book ("The Perfect Roommate") that I enjoyed! When I started reading the story I couldn’t decide to trust which characters (which mother) and in the end, it surprised me and I think it will surprise you as well (if you still haven’t read it yet, that’s it!). So, this was a good read for me but my only major complaint was the slow pacing! Actually not the pacing itself but taking too long till something happened! It was good written, a compelling read, you know I’m not a big fan of slow thrillers so you could guess how addictive this one was. Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novel. it contains short chapters with unreliable characters. All in all, it was an enjoyable read and hope you’d love it!
February 6, 2017
I was looking forward to a good, suck you in, psychological thriller, but this one didn't do it for me. For me, there really needs to be at least one character that is likable and that I want to root for. I didn't find that with any of these characters. I struggled to get through so much of it, and for the first several chapters, all I saw were a bunch of people with sad lives. I like an intro and some lead-in to the characters but when you come to chapter 10 and all you have is a sad girl with issues, a cheating husband, an uncaring mother, and a misbehaving child without anything really happening, that's a bit too much on the intro. I don't like to give spoilers, but in the end, nobody wins, and quite honestly, I didn't care enough about any character to be too upset about it.
July 2, 2017
One of the many books I enjoyed ...up until the ending
Dear authors, if your not sure how to end the book
wait till you do
Dear authors, if your not sure how to end the book
wait till you do
October 26, 2017
I have to thank my girl Chelsea for putting this one on my radar, her ŷ review caught my eye and she has excellent taste so I snagged a copy and I am SO happy I did! This was pure entertainment, one of the most enjoyable books I’ve read in awhile and had all the things I look for in a psychological thriller.
The less you know the better here, so if the description intrigues you I say give it a shot. It’s told via dual narratives, it flips from Autumn to Daphne and both viewpoints were equally engaging. I was completely addicted to this book, it was the type that you’re thinking about when you’re not reading it and had I been able to I would’ve devoured it in one sitting. Everything about it felt fresh and exciting and of course it was twisty, what’s a psychological thriller without some twists?! But it was a great read even without the twists, I think I just loved Kent’s style and it had a super strong ending that just worked well for me. Fans of this genre should definitely pick this up and then come chat with me when you finish it!
The less you know the better here, so if the description intrigues you I say give it a shot. It’s told via dual narratives, it flips from Autumn to Daphne and both viewpoints were equally engaging. I was completely addicted to this book, it was the type that you’re thinking about when you’re not reading it and had I been able to I would’ve devoured it in one sitting. Everything about it felt fresh and exciting and of course it was twisty, what’s a psychological thriller without some twists?! But it was a great read even without the twists, I think I just loved Kent’s style and it had a super strong ending that just worked well for me. Fans of this genre should definitely pick this up and then come chat with me when you finish it!
March 8, 2018
From the summary of this book, you might think it's going to be something like "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle," the story of a psychotic woman, bent on revenge, who becomes a nanny for the family she thinks ruined her life.
It's not like that at all. 😲 Autumn knows she did the right thing by giving her baby daughter up for adoption. She wanted a better life for her than she could provide. But Autumn never forgot about her baby girl and, one day, she finds her—the star of Daphne McMillen's Instaface account. Autumn is deliriously happy, more than a little obsessed, but content, with perusing Daphne's "perfect family" daily posts. But, suddenly, the posts stop and Autumn doesn't know what to do. Oh, yeah. Become the family's nanny. Perfect.
This audio book is almost 9 hours long and, for about the first 5 hours, nothing much happened. I didn't mind because I prefer character-driven stories anyway. But I say that because, by comparison, so much happened in the last third of the book that it was kind of crazy. I mean, so much.
I was surprised when the book ended. It wasn't a cliffhanger, but it left a lot to the imagination, which was okay once I got over the Wait. What? disappointment.
It's not like that at all. 😲 Autumn knows she did the right thing by giving her baby daughter up for adoption. She wanted a better life for her than she could provide. But Autumn never forgot about her baby girl and, one day, she finds her—the star of Daphne McMillen's Instaface account. Autumn is deliriously happy, more than a little obsessed, but content, with perusing Daphne's "perfect family" daily posts. But, suddenly, the posts stop and Autumn doesn't know what to do. Oh, yeah. Become the family's nanny. Perfect.
This audio book is almost 9 hours long and, for about the first 5 hours, nothing much happened. I didn't mind because I prefer character-driven stories anyway. But I say that because, by comparison, so much happened in the last third of the book that it was kind of crazy. I mean, so much.
I was surprised when the book ended. It wasn't a cliffhanger, but it left a lot to the imagination, which was okay once I got over the Wait. What? disappointment.
February 20, 2017
Did you know that you can get a REFUND from Kindle for books that are so bad that you can't finish them? Go to Manage Kindle Content. Valid for 7 days.
This book, The Memory Watcher, is a pastiche of recent "Girl" hits -- a chapter here, a character there. It is the literary equivalent of a Chinese restaurant menu, Column A, etc., sans the fortune cookie at the end.
This book, The Memory Watcher, is a pastiche of recent "Girl" hits -- a chapter here, a character there. It is the literary equivalent of a Chinese restaurant menu, Column A, etc., sans the fortune cookie at the end.
November 20, 2017
It is hard to believe that The Memory Watcher by Minka Kent is a debut novel. Woah, I was seriously impressed.
Ten years ago, Autumn Carpenter gave up her baby for adoption. And one day, she magically finds her on Instaface. (Picture Instagram!). The reason I phrase it that way is that we don't know how she located her. We just know that she did.
By way of Instaface, Daphne and Graham McMullen have the picture-perfect life, with the picture-perfect children, in the picture-perfect house, complete with the picture-perfect dog.
Daphne McMullen is exhausted, stressed, and frustrated. She struggles with Grace's behavioral problems while taking care of her two younger natural borne children. Graham is gone a lot, so she bides her time minding her "lifestyle" Instaface account, which has thousands of followers. Including Autumn Carpenter.
Autumn observes the McMullen life. The parts their lives that Daphne shows, anyway. She watches her little Grace grow up. That is until Daphne takes a break from Instaface and deactivates her account. Autumn practically falls apart.
Minka Kent wrote a fantastic novel with alternating views, Autumn and Daphne. I'm not sure which one is slightly off-kilter than the other, but both viewpoints were interesting, for sure.
I particularly enjoyed Autumns view of McMullen life from the outside versus McMullen life from the inside. Other things I enjoyed were the "voices." Minka Kent did an incredible job of giving each a distinctive voice. Sometimes I find it hard to follow books where multiple main characters think and speak similarly.
Honestly, the only reason for 4-stars is the ending. Don't get me wrong; it wasn't bad. In fact, it was good. The twists happen throughout the book, so there wasn't much of a twist at the end, which is fine. But without a twist, I think the ending needs a little more fanfare or pizazz.
I DID like that the ending leaves an opening for a follow-up book. I'm not sure if that is Minka Kent's intention; however, I would love to read more about the character in question.
The Memory Watcher is a stunning book by a brilliant author. I am looking forward to reading more by Minka Kent. 4-stunning-stars.
Ten years ago, Autumn Carpenter gave up her baby for adoption. And one day, she magically finds her on Instaface. (Picture Instagram!). The reason I phrase it that way is that we don't know how she located her. We just know that she did.
By way of Instaface, Daphne and Graham McMullen have the picture-perfect life, with the picture-perfect children, in the picture-perfect house, complete with the picture-perfect dog.
Daphne McMullen is exhausted, stressed, and frustrated. She struggles with Grace's behavioral problems while taking care of her two younger natural borne children. Graham is gone a lot, so she bides her time minding her "lifestyle" Instaface account, which has thousands of followers. Including Autumn Carpenter.
Autumn observes the McMullen life. The parts their lives that Daphne shows, anyway. She watches her little Grace grow up. That is until Daphne takes a break from Instaface and deactivates her account. Autumn practically falls apart.
Minka Kent wrote a fantastic novel with alternating views, Autumn and Daphne. I'm not sure which one is slightly off-kilter than the other, but both viewpoints were interesting, for sure.
I particularly enjoyed Autumns view of McMullen life from the outside versus McMullen life from the inside. Other things I enjoyed were the "voices." Minka Kent did an incredible job of giving each a distinctive voice. Sometimes I find it hard to follow books where multiple main characters think and speak similarly.
Honestly, the only reason for 4-stars is the ending. Don't get me wrong; it wasn't bad. In fact, it was good. The twists happen throughout the book, so there wasn't much of a twist at the end, which is fine. But without a twist, I think the ending needs a little more fanfare or pizazz.
I DID like that the ending leaves an opening for a follow-up book. I'm not sure if that is Minka Kent's intention; however, I would love to read more about the character in question.
The Memory Watcher is a stunning book by a brilliant author. I am looking forward to reading more by Minka Kent. 4-stunning-stars.
December 16, 2019
Cannot believe this was the author's first book. This was such a smooth and well written book Loved it. Unputdownable.
This was actually a book club selection and I can say it was one of the best. Part Mystery, part character study, part family drama there is not anything about The Memory Watcher that I did not like.
SPOILERS:
The ending just wowed me. Usually, or at least frequently, I can see a twist coming even if I cannot always predict the twist. I had no idea what was coming here and the ending was just written so well and in a way that few could have guessed at. I highly recommend The Memory Watcher. It is unputdownable.
This was actually a book club selection and I can say it was one of the best. Part Mystery, part character study, part family drama there is not anything about The Memory Watcher that I did not like.
SPOILERS:
The ending just wowed me. Usually, or at least frequently, I can see a twist coming even if I cannot always predict the twist. I had no idea what was coming here and the ending was just written so well and in a way that few could have guessed at. I highly recommend The Memory Watcher. It is unputdownable.
March 31, 2018
Really thoroughly enjoyed this well written, mostly well plotted psychological thriller - I purchased it off the back of reading several good reviews and it was well worth it.
So we have Autumn, who watches closely the family that adopted her daughter - she insinuates herself into every part of their lives. But sometimes golden lives hide dark secrets as Autumn is about to discover.
For the most part I was highly fascinated by this one, especially the characters. Autumn is a chameleon, she fits the people she is with or tries to. Hints at a not so wonderful childhood just increase her mystique and her voice is strong and engaging. You do fall for her and her determination to protect the child she gave up, plus the story is twisted as you like. The surrounding characters are equally engaging, Daphne the perfect wife whose perfection falters as the story goes on, Graham the wonderful husband who is not so wonderful. Ben, Autumn's long suffering boyfriend who loves her but doesn't really understand her and Marnie the edgy, unlikable sister of Ben who peripherally causes all sorts of shenanigans.
Overall then a great tale well told, a bang through page turner - but for me not without it's faults. The ultimate resolution, whilst yes utterly unexpected (bonus points) fell a little flat for me because of it's nature. Say no more, we don't do spoilers here. Also Grace, the daughter, showed such promise as a psychologically intriguing character, but ultimately that went nowhere and didn't tie up well with the ending, this I did find disappointing. I feel more could have been made of the relationship between Grace and Autumn, the nuances were there and then completely ignored within the context of the finale which was vaguely frustrating.
Even having said all that though, the writing was great, the storytelling for the majority well plotted and having an ending that I didn't expect was indeed a good selling point. It means I am going to get this authors next reads, perhaps as this was her first those little things that did frustrate will come out, Minka Kent has a talented and intuitive eye for building characters readers will relate to and love/hate, this in and of itself is something I look for in this genre so I'm sticking with it.
A solid 3* showing huge potential.
So we have Autumn, who watches closely the family that adopted her daughter - she insinuates herself into every part of their lives. But sometimes golden lives hide dark secrets as Autumn is about to discover.
For the most part I was highly fascinated by this one, especially the characters. Autumn is a chameleon, she fits the people she is with or tries to. Hints at a not so wonderful childhood just increase her mystique and her voice is strong and engaging. You do fall for her and her determination to protect the child she gave up, plus the story is twisted as you like. The surrounding characters are equally engaging, Daphne the perfect wife whose perfection falters as the story goes on, Graham the wonderful husband who is not so wonderful. Ben, Autumn's long suffering boyfriend who loves her but doesn't really understand her and Marnie the edgy, unlikable sister of Ben who peripherally causes all sorts of shenanigans.
Overall then a great tale well told, a bang through page turner - but for me not without it's faults. The ultimate resolution, whilst yes utterly unexpected (bonus points) fell a little flat for me because of it's nature. Say no more, we don't do spoilers here. Also Grace, the daughter, showed such promise as a psychologically intriguing character, but ultimately that went nowhere and didn't tie up well with the ending, this I did find disappointing. I feel more could have been made of the relationship between Grace and Autumn, the nuances were there and then completely ignored within the context of the finale which was vaguely frustrating.
Even having said all that though, the writing was great, the storytelling for the majority well plotted and having an ending that I didn't expect was indeed a good selling point. It means I am going to get this authors next reads, perhaps as this was her first those little things that did frustrate will come out, Minka Kent has a talented and intuitive eye for building characters readers will relate to and love/hate, this in and of itself is something I look for in this genre so I'm sticking with it.
A solid 3* showing huge potential.
December 10, 2017
Hmm...3.5 stars? I was REALLY enjoying this (although I could NOT buy into Daphne's secret) but the story could've had a much more plausible (and less abrupt) ending which would've been more satisfying for me. The way that the author chose to explain "Autumn" did not work for me either, but, I did like the author's writing style and look forward to trying another one of her books.
October 21, 2017
2.5 stars...book took a disappointing direction towards the end.
September 19, 2018
Audio/narrator performances 5 stars
Story - 2 stars predictable and unoriginal
Story - 2 stars predictable and unoriginal
September 14, 2017
Well...that ended unexpectedly.
More thoughts to come when I figure out exactly how I feel about that ending.
More thoughts to come when I figure out exactly how I feel about that ending.
May 3, 2021
3.5 stars. I went in blind and recommend you do too. A solid, mildly entertaining domestic thriller about a seemingly perfect family. I liked the ending, which was shocking and fun, so this gets rounded up to a 4. Currently free on Kindle Unlimited and an entertaining, quick thriller read.
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