I have just finished reading the brilliant Believe by Sarah M. Govett, and the first thought that comes to mind is how perfectly this novel would translate into a film or a televised series. It’s that good, in my opinion. This psychological thriller is gripping, mysterious, cerebral, and full of surprises. Sarah Govett masterfully keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. I had to force myself to put it down at 1:45 a.m. this morning, as I was about 75% through, but the moment I woke up, I had to dive straight back in—it’s that much of a page-turner.
The story follows four main characters, each bringing a unique perspective and depth to the narrative. Alongside them is a strong supporting cast, including Pavarotti—who, incidentally, has got to be my favorite character. Ryan and Natalie appear to have the perfect life: a beautiful suburban home in an affluent part of London, successful careers, and a seemingly bright future. But scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll quickly realize that things aren’t quite as idyllic as they seem.
Then we have DI Stratton and DS Bradley, a newly paired duo investigating a murder near Ryan and Natalie’s home. Stratton is fiercely intuitive, relying heavily on gut instinct, sometimes to a fault, while Bradley is more methodical, leaving no stone unturned and meticulously following every lead. Their dynamic adds another layer of intrigue to the story, as their different investigative styles create tension and challenge assumptions.
What makes Believe so compelling is its ability to keep you guessing until the very last pages. Throughout the novel, I cycled through a few potential suspects, convinced I was onto something—only to have Sarah Govett completely pull the rug from under me. The twists and turns are expertly crafted, making for a thrilling and unpredictable ride.
Without hesitation, I’m giving this book a solid five out of five stars. If you’re a television producer reading this, please do us all a favor and adapt this into a mini-series or film—it’s that good. Believe is an incredibly strong debut novel, a triumph that is packed with tension, dark intrigue, and an utterly compulsive narrative.
A huge thank you to Sarah Govett and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this ARC in exchange for my honest review. If you love psychological thrillers that keep you guessing, Believe is an absolute must-read.
