Mary Higgins Clark was one of my favorite authors as a young adult, I read all her back catalogue. I have been really hesitant to read any of the Alafair Burke “Under Suspicion” collabs but I’m so glad I took this opportunity.
The story joins Laurie as she’s working on her investigative journalism show Under Suspicion. The team has a very familiar sounding case of twin boys who are suspected of murdering their parents 10 years earlier. The twins and their you her sister have had a strained relationship since the murders. Laurie and her team do a great job investigating and reveal the truth. I have not read any others in this series and it wasn’t an issue, you can jump in with this one.
I absolutely flew through this book and can’t wait to go back and read the others in this series. Thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for this eARC to review.

Mary Higgins Clark is one of my favorite authors of suspense and I love this series! This book is the eighth installment of her Under Suspicion series, but can also easily be read as a stand alone. I love the way she develops suspects and unravels the mystery! Definitely an easy read that I highly enjoyed!!

Thank you NetGalley for this arc, all opinions are my own

I just love this series. So easy to jump into a new book and just catch up and go....like an old friend!
Also, I am continually impressed by the way the book flows, as if MHC was still alive and putting the pen to paper for these new books. Can't wait for the next installment!

In It Had to be You, there are two identical brothers who seemed perfect in every way until a summer night when one brother killed his parents in cold blood while the other brother had an iron-clad alibi. But which twin was where during the murders? Is it possible the two of them planned the perfect crime together?

Years later, the twins are long estranged, each of them claiming to be convinced that the other is responsible for the death of their parents. Now married, they may finally be ready to clear one name at the expense of the other and turn to Laurie Moran and her team to reinvestigate their parents’ murder. Laurie Moran Under Suspicion books.

The two identical brothers seemed perfect in every way—handsome, intelligent, popular—until a shocking summer night when one brother killed his parents in cold blood while the other brother had an iron-clad alibi. But which twin was where during the murders? And is it possible the two of them planned the perfect crime together? Years later, the twins are long estranged, each of them claiming to be convinced that the other is responsible for the death of their parents. Married now with children of their own, they may finally be ready to clear one name at the expense of the other and turn to Laurie Moran and her team to reinvestigate their parents’ murder. But as the Under Suspicion crew gets closer to the truth, the danger that was assumed to be left in the past finds its way into the present.So happy to see this series continue in the highly capable and creative hands of Alafair Burke! The return of Laurie and her crew is the icing on the cake. I hope there are many more of these in the future!

I really liked this book. I thought it would one of those grim mind twisters but it is really a straight forward investigation into a double murder cold case. It is very well written, you can really see the characters & feel them. I knew within the first 3 chapters who the killer is, & was correct. I highly recommend. #ItHadtoBeYou #NetGalley

I was absolutely thrilled when I heard about this new title being announced! It's such wonderful news that the series will be continuing even after the passing of the beloved Mary Higgins Clark. I couldn't be happier that Laurie and the whole crew are back with a new under suspicion, and it just keeps getting more exciting with each new installment. It's such a gripping story, starting with what should have been a joyous night for a family, only to end in tragedy for two of them. Years have gone by, and the three siblings involved still have so many unanswered questions about that fateful night. Who could have done such a thing? And why? Most importantly, could it have been one of them all along? The suspense is killing me! And it will get you until the very last secret is revealed. For the next one it would be good to go to the past with Laurie's Dad--is there a case he could never solve??? Maybe fresh eyes could help. Please please keep this series coming back to give us more.

Thanks to Netgalley and Publisher for the honor of reviewing this title.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

“It Had to Be You” by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke is a riveting addition to the Under Suspicion series that masterfully intertwines suspense with the complexities of human relationships. The novel, set against the backdrop of a cold case investigation, delves into the unsolved murder of a couple, posthumously casting shadows on their seemingly perfect twin sons.

The narrative is a labyrinth of twists and turns, where each chapter peels back layers of family secrets and lies. The twins, once inseparable, find themselves pitted against each other, with one brother’s innocence hinging on the guilt of the other. The plot thickens as television producer Laurie Moran takes on the case, unraveling a tapestry of deceit that questions the very nature of truth and justice.

Clark and Burke’s collaboration brings to life a story that is as much about the pursuit of truth as it is about the exploration of the human psyche. The authors challenge the reader to consider the duality of human nature—the capacity for both good and evil—and the gray areas that define our moral compass.

The prose is crisp, the pacing relentless, and the final twist a testament to Clark’s title as the Queen of Suspense. With a cast of characters that are both relatable and enigmatic, the novel keeps the reader guessing until the very end. The intricate plot, coupled with the authors’ attention to detail, makes “It Had to Be You” a standout in the genre.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for mystery enthusiasts and a fine example of how a well-crafted narrative can hold a mirror to the complexities of familial bonds and the unfathomable depths of the human heart. “It Had to Be You” is a poignant exploration of the ties that bind and the secrets that can tear them apart.

It Had To Be You is the latest installment of the Under Suspicion Series by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke. Once again, Laurie Moran is investigating a cold case. This case involves privileged twins whose parents were brutally murdered the night of their college graduation party. They also have a younger sister, Frankie. The twins, Simon and Ethan were early on identified as the possible suspects. Theories bounced between they planned it together or one of the twins acted alone. Eash twin is angry with their father which gives either one motive. As Laurie delves into the history of the crime, she finds herself hoping there is someone else to blame. As per usual, the ending is unexpected. I’m hoping that Alafair Burke will continue with this series. It’s one of my favorites.

Typical comfort food type of mystery that I expect when I see Mary Higgins Clark's name on the cover, even though she's no longer the one writing the series. Nothing ground breaking, but exactly what I expected and was looking for. I liked the true crime TV show aspect, and had no confusion jumping in in the middle of the series even though I hadn't read the previous ones.

MAry Higgins Clark never disappoints and this was a great mystery. I loved the storyline overall and will always pick up a book written by her.

I love the writing style for these books. I have read MHC since I was a teenager and recently came to reading Alifair after the sequel to Where are the Children Now. I did not predict the twist in this. I enjoyed the many layers of family relationships explored in this book The chapters were a good length—-not too short but not too long if you need a good stopping point
I look forward to the next collaboration

Laurie Moran investigates old crimes where there has not been enough evidence to pinpoint the perpetrator or they have nothing pointing at one person or persons. In this case, she decides to investigate the deaths of a well-known couple, killed the night of a celebration of their twin son’s graduation. Years ago, everything they had pointed to one of the twin sons and the possibility that they worked in tandem to commit the crime. However, just getting the family to re-open this long-ago wound was difficult enough. Laurie manages to do that and along with her team, begins her investigation. Things actually go quite well, but can they figure out who committed the crime and why.

I have read several other books by this author team. This one is the first one I did not really care for. I found it difficult to get into, and I just could not relate to the characters. Laurie and her team were good in their investigation, but that did not make me like it any better. I received this from NetGalley to read and review,

"It Had to Be You" by the late Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke is a thrilling addition to the beloved Under Suspicion series. With its intriguing plot, lovable characters, and unexpected twists, this novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

Lori Moran, along with her family and coworkers, continues to shine as memorable and endearing characters in this installment. Their dynamics add depth to the story as they navigate through the complexities of investigating a chilling murder case involving twin brothers with dark secrets. The authors excel at creating relatable characters that readers can't help but root for throughout the suspenseful journey.

The plot of "It Had to Be You" delivers all the suspense, twists, and intrigue that fans have come to expect from the Under Suspicion series. As Laurie Moran delves into the unsolved murder of a couple celebrating their sons' college graduations, she uncovers layers of deception and betrayal that lead her team down a dangerous path. The themes of family loyalty, betrayal, and redemption are expertly woven into the narrative, adding emotional depth to an already gripping storyline.

Mary Higgins Clark's legacy lives on in "It Had to Be You," co-authored with Alafair Burke. Together, they continue to prove their mastery in crafting compelling mysteries with this latest installment that promises both thrills and heartwarming moments for fans of the series.

"It Had to Be You" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys suspenseful thrillers with well-developed characters and intricate plots. With its blend of mystery, drama, and unexpected revelations, this novel captivates readers until its final jaw-dropping twist leaves them eagerly anticipating what's next for Laurie Moran in future installments of the Under Suspicion series.

Mary Higgins Clark has always been my go to for a good thriller, and this one is my favorite yet! Twin brothers, one kills their parents, but what is the others alibi. So many secrets come up from the past, questions throughout keeping the reader on their toes. Wonderfully written! Add this to your TBR list.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this book!

I have always been a fan of Mary Higgins Clark, since I was a child, completely gripped by the suspenseful tales and webs she wove with her dialogue, characters, and atmospheric writing. I understand why she might have co-written books with Alafair Burke later in her career. Especially after her passing, Mary Higgins Clark will surely be missed. I appreciate having another book from her in my library.

Two identical brothers were accused on murdering their parents on the night of their graduation party. There was never enough evidence so they were never charged. 10 years later, due to their past, their estranged relationship is tested when their sister wants Laurie from a TV show to review the evidence to find the truth. Even if that means her brothers did commit the crime. The book was a quick read and the secrets were pretty shocking. The ending was a little disappointing as it seemed rushed. I wish there was a bit more explanation as to why. Overall a good read and would be curious to read more of the "Under Suspicion" series.

You can't go wrong with Mary Higgins Clark! I wasn't aware this was a series book, but this can be read as a standalone. I definitely want to read the rest now. Twin brothers Ethan and Simon suspect each other for years in their parents brutal murder. Laurie Malone is a podcaster who has followed this story for years and is determined to find out the truth. The ending is shocking and nothing you will see coming.

This was about a TV series, Under Suspicion, that finds cold cases to investigate again. They have an excellent track record for finding new evidence and solving cases. They pick up a case for their new episode about the Deadly Duo, Ethan and Simon.

The night of Ethan and Simon’s graduation party, their parents were found murdered. A camera leading onto their property sees the twins car coming and leaving the property around the time of the murder and a witness placed one of the twins near the parked car after it returned to the party. Were they in on it together? Or was it only one of the twins? The cops were zeroed in on the Deadly Duo, but never had the evidence to arrest one or both of the boys.

We follow Laurie, the producer of the show, reinvestigating the crime and digging into the past, hoping to find new evidence and crack the case.

Normally I find books where a random person solves the case when the cops couldn’t slightly annoying and unrealistic. This didn’t bother me in that aspect. I feel like it was done well. It was interesting to try and unravel the story before Laurie could, and I feel like things were not predictable but were believable.

Once things started rolling, I feel like I was invested in it, but the story wasn’t really pulling me in hard like some other books. It was overall a fun read.

Excellent book! It's not often that I don't figure out the twists, this one got me. Great job with character development and the story just keeps you reading. I read it in one sitting because I couldn't put it down.
Thanks to netgalley, the publisher and authors for the chance to read this advanced copy.