The premise sounded interesting but unfortunately this did not hold my attention. I didn't particularly like any of the characters and it just didn't end up being what I thought it was going to be. We do find out who set the fire and who Mary's parents are, so I appreciated answers to those questions.

Kindly received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I liked this book. It was interesting, had good writing, and a good pace to it. I liked the secrets and family drama that comes out, it made it entertaining and kept me intrigued throughout reading.

Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, and to the publisher for this complimentary ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!

A fire on Christmas and the whodunnit of how (and by whom) it was started is the main storyline in Hush Little Fire by Judith Newcombe Stiles. We are introduced to Mary Newcombe and her mother Birdie, a pair whose strained relationship plays into the key mystery, who are also the daughter and mother of the town’s long deceased family doctor. That he performed under the counter illegal abortions before the passage of Roe vs. Wade is an open secret in their small Cape Cod town. Also included is the nurse horribly burned in the fire, a would be conniving waitress/house cleaner and low-level policeman determined to find out the true nature of the holiday fire.

I have to admit, I found this book rather strange. I understand what the author seemed to be going for, the story of a fire, telling the narrative through intersecting points of view that weave together at the end and tie the mystery up seamlessly—but I don’t think she achieved her goal. I found the writing too overly flowery and aimless and don’t think the portrait she painted of the town through classes and characters study came together in the end. Two and half stars for a disappointing result to a premise that was interesting but never really panned out for me.

I received this advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review and feedback.

Thank you Netgalley and Alcove Press for the ARC!

Hush Little Fire offers an intriguing story with a compelling premise centered on themes of family, identity, and belonging, though its exploration of these ideas felt somewhat underdeveloped. The child and pregnancy themes provided an interesting layer, but I struggled to grasp the author's deeper intentions—was it about understanding one's roots, or something broader about connection and family?

That said, the multiple points of view were a strong feature of the book. They gave a refreshing and comprehensive perspective on the events that unfolded. The plot twist was a standout moment, and the ending tied everything together in a satisfying way, even if I couldn't really connect with the story emotionally.

Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy!

When a small town experiences a fire and injures a well known person in the town, rumors begin to swirl. So many moving pieces as to local community members and their connection to the fire. A family full of secrets and a few key characters trying to get answers to the truth and their money.

Hush Little Fires by Judith Newcomb Stiles is a gripping thriller that masterfully intertwines family secrets, betrayal, and suspense. The vivid writing and tightly paced narrative keep you hooked from start to finish. A must-read for fans of domestic thrillers.

This wasn't my favorite but it was pretty good. I just couldn't really connect with any of the characters.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this arc in exchange for an honest review!

Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC. This refreshing book was just what I needed. Cathy Lamb vibes for the win. Quirky, wonderful writing. Highly recommend.

Hush Little Fire by Judith Newcomb Stiles is a gripping cross-generational mystery that dives deep into family secrets, long-buried truths, and the aftermath of a devastating fire. Set against the evocative backdrop of Cape Cod, the story follows Mary, who becomes entangled in a web of suspicion after a suspicious blaze destroys a health clinic with ties to her family's shadowy past. This debut novel is packed with intrigue, dark humor, and complex relationships, making it a compelling read for fans of atmospheric mysteries.

The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives, enriching its exploration of themes like adoption, identity, and hidden histories. While it carries the intrigue of a thriller, some parts might feel a tad heavy-handed with revelations, though the emotional stakes keep you hooked. Perfect if you’re into stories like Where the Crawdads Sing. My rating: 4/5.

this was a strong debut from Judith Newcomb Stiles and enjoyed the overall feel of this book. The concept was so well written and strongly done. The characters had that feel that worked well overall and enjoyed the overall feel that they worked with the storyline. Judith Newcomb Stiles has a strong writing style and was glad I read this.