Kristin's Bookshelf

📖 Unravel
✍️ By Daya Winters | @dayawinters
📚 Smother Series, Book 2
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

First, I want to thank Daya Winters for trusting me with another ARC. I was lucky enough to be on the ARC team for Smother (Book 1), and I couldn’t wait to dive into Unravel. It absolutely did not disappoint.

I don’t read many books that have me rooting for someone who isn’t exactly the “good guy.” Hannah may not technically be a villain, but she’s undeniably manipulative, vindictive, and willing to cross lines most people wouldn’t. And somehow… you can’t help but root for her. One of my favorite parts of this sequel was seeing just how much she’s grown since Book 1.

After finishing Smother, I couldn’t understand why Hannah would stay with her husband. In Unravel, we finally get the answers. We dive into her past, discover what shaped her into the woman she is today, and it all makes so much more sense. I remember mentioning in my review of Book 1 that I wanted Hannah’s backstory, and I’m so glad we got it.

One thing I especially appreciated was the pacing of the twists. There are enough surprises to keep you completely engaged, but not so many that the story feels over-the-top or unrealistic. Around Chapter 50, everything starts to unravel one after another.

We also discover just how much Hannah has in common with her mother-in-law. That said, Hannah’s sense of justice feels far more deliberate. I found myself completely invested in the way Hannah handles things… even if her methods are definitely extreme.

I also loved the way Mrs. Henderson and Hannah’s work as Cynthia’s book editor were woven into the story. Neither subplot felt forced, and both added meaningful layers to Hannah’s character.

And the creepy doll Rosie? I loved that callback. I was so glad Allie found her and managed to put her to good use. 😉

Now I’m left with so many questions. How will Allie’s story develop? Will Cynthia write another book? And, most importantly… will there be a Smother Book 3? Because I am absolutely ready for it.