Mad Mabel

by Sally Hepworth

Meet Mad Mabel.

Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick is eighty-one years old. She's lived on her idyllic street, Kenny Lane, for sixty years--longer than anyone else. Aside from being a curmudgeon who minds everyone else's business, few would suspect that Elsie has a past that she has worked exceedingly hard at concealing. Because when it comes to murder, no one ever suspects little girls or old ladies. And Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick, once a little girl and now an old lady, has a strange history of people in her life coming to a foul end.

When a new little girl (talkative, curious, nosy) moves into the neighborhood and stops at nothing to befriend Elsie, her carefully-constructed life threatens to come crashing down as the secrets in Elsie's past start coming to light. Who was "Mad Mabel" fifty years ago? Who is Elsie Fitzpatrick today? And if the past has a habit of repeating itself, who has the most to lose?

Genres: Audiobook, Mystery, Fiction, Book Club, Thriller, Mystery Thriller, Crime

352 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2025

About the author

Sally Hepworth is the New York Times bestselling author of nine novels, most recently Darling Girls. Sally’s novels have been called “darkly charming” and praised by authors Emily Giffin and Liane Moriarty as “totally absorbing” and “fiction at its finest.”

Sally's novels are available around the globe in English and have been translated into over 30 languages. She has sold over two million books worldwide.

Sally lives in Melbourne, Australia with her family.

Reviews

[Nilufer Ozmekik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hepworth is, without question, my reigning Australian thriller queen (sorry, Liane Moriarty—Sally has absolutely earned this crown!). With her latest novel, she doesn’t just deliver another solid story—she delivers her masterpiece. From the moment I finished it, I wanted to stand on the rooftops and shout, “All rise for Queen Sally!” because this book has officially become my favorite of hers.

It’s everything I love about Hepworth’s writing: a perfectly balanced mystery that teases and twists until the very end, layers of questions that keep forming in your mind, and, this time, a tidal wave of emotion that caught me completely off guard. For the first time in a Hepworth novel, I found myself teary-eyed, glassy-eyed even, overwhelmed by the tenderness and heartbreak woven into the suspense. Beyond the thrills, it’s a story about friendship, honesty, resilience, and the power of a community that holds each other close—even when secrets threaten to tear everything apart.

At the heart of the novel is Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick, one of the most fascinating characters I’ve encountered in years. She’s 81 years old, whip-smart, sarcastic, sturdy, resilient, and unapologetically grumpy in a way that makes her unforgettable. But she’s also a woman who has lived her entire life under the shadow of a cruel legend: Mad Mabel. As a child, after surviving a tragic accident, Elsie’s appearance and aloofness made her an easy target. Whispers grew into gossip, gossip hardened into myth, and soon she was the neighborhood scapegoat—a girl supposedly cursed, dangerous, unstable. It’s heartbreaking to see how her story was twisted by others, how she was villainized from such a young age. But as readers, we’re left wondering: was Elsie ever “mad” at all? Or was she simply misunderstood, punished because people needed someone to blame for their own fears and weaknesses?

In the present day, Elsie has been living peacefully for six decades, content to keep to herself—until everything comes crashing down again. A neighbor who always treated her coldly dies mysteriously, and Elsie is the one to find the body. Suddenly, she’s thrust back into the spotlight, her old nickname dragged up and her reputation shredded once more. This time, though, Elsie is determined not to be silenced. She decides to tell her own story, choosing two bold young podcasters as her confidants—the only ones brave enough to sit across from her and listen. And through her voice, we’re forced to ask ourselves: is she the monster the town has always painted her to be, or the tragic heroine of her own misunderstood life?
The beauty of this book lies in the way Hepworth refuses to make it simple. Elsie is complicated, contradictory, deeply human. Why do her neighbors adore her if she’s truly as dangerous as they say? Why does little Persephone never leave her side? Why would a supposedly cold woman open her home to a barking dog she once despised, simply because he lost his owner? Every act of kindness, every sharp remark, every moment of vulnerability adds to the puzzle, forcing us to confront whether she’s truly capable of the darkness people have long accused her of—or whether she’s simply been carrying a false narrative for decades.

This is not just a thriller—it’s a character study, a meditation on truth, bias, and the stories communities tell about those who don’t fit the mold. It’s haunting, it’s heartbreaking, and it’s undeniably gripping. Hepworth delivers action and mystery, yes, but she also gives us one of the most emotional, deeply felt stories she has ever written. By the final chapters, I was shaken to my core, napkin in hand, heart pounding.

So buckle up for this ride. This is Sally Hepworth at the very height of her powers, blending sharp suspense with raw, emotional depth. I can confidently say this is one of the best books of 2026 and deserves not just five stars but five gazillion stars.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for sharing this marvelous book from one of my all-time favorite authors in exchange for my honest thoughts. I loved every single page, and I will be talking about Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick for a long, long time.

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[Yun · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ugh, sorry to always be the contrarian. I see reader after reader calling this their favorite Sally Hepworth, but for me, Mad Mabel fell just a bit short of the author's best.

But first, let's set expectations. Sally Hepworth's books are always labeled as mystery/thrillers, but they are not. In fact, if you went into it thinking you're signing up for some big brouhaha with lots of twists and turns, you'd be sorely disappointed.

Hepworth writes domestic suspense with a heavy emphasis on the characters and their personal and interpersonal drama, and the suspense comes from the story's construction. In other words, there's nothing necessarily suspenseful going on in the plot itself, it's more the way Hepworth weaves the timelines and points of view that creates the tension.

And maybe, when put like that, I can already see why I felt more lukewarm towards this book than some of her others. None of the things that usually grab me in a Sally Hepworth story did in this one. The characters, the drama, even the tension in here all felt a bit superficial and ho hum, like I've seen it all before.

Old person who's grouchy on the outside and sweet on the inside? Check. Old person and young child form a friendship? Check. Old person's heart finally thaws after said friendship? Check.

This is a dual timeline and I had trouble connecting with Mabel in both, which is difficult to forgive in a character-driven story. The series of bad things that happens to the young Mabel felt overdone, relying heavily on coincidences and piled on past the point of believability to maximize emotional turmoil. And the portrayal of old Mabel felt surprisingly shallow, laying it on thick with the aforementioned old-person grouchiness, but I had trouble finding the sweetness underneath.

Speaking of seeing it all before, there is a revelation towards the end of the book that I figured out almost immediately. Like, come on, of course only Mabel could see Daphne! The Sixth Sense has seared this exact feint into the memory of every single person from now until the end of time. It was so masterfully done in the film and so strikingly memorable that no one could ever pull the same wool over our eyes again. M. Night Shyamalan is the first and only person to have succeeded at this sleight of hand, and Sally Hepworth unfortunately did not.

And so for all these reasons, it didn't feel like the story was propelling me forward so much as I was dragging it along. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't bad by any means; it just didn't grab me the same way Hepworth's books usually do.

~~~~~~~~~~~~
See also, my thoughts on:
The Good Sister
The Younger Wife
The Soulmate
~~~~~~~~~~~~

✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
✧ This was a pick for my BOTM box. Get your first book for $5 here.

[Brady Lockerby · Rating 4 out of 5]

if you're in the market for a new audiobook, make it be this!! if you enjoyed The Thursday Murder Club, and/or love an opinionated elderly woman main character with a mysterious past that has come back to haunt her, look no further! definitely different and more lighthearted than some of Sally's other books, but i really loved this one

[Holly B · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story!

So happy I got to know Mabel! I'm not ever going to call her "Mad Mabel" either!! 💞

She is eighty-one and her real name is Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick. She seems to be a sour, cranky and cantankerous lady. She also has a terrific, sarcastic sense of humor that had me rolling with laughter over and over again! 😂

The story touched my heart at many levels. This isn't what I was expecting, but I had laughs, chills, and eyes full of tears! Whether you think she is the crazy murderer lady or just a misunderstood soul, you will be thinking about Mabel after the end!

Oh, also I can't close without mentioning the precious child, Persephone. She stole my whole heart. ❤️


Thanks to ST Martin's Press for my ARC! It isn't out until April 2026, BUT you can request on NG!

[Miranda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

"And yet, as I open my mouth to talk, and images of that day flash before my eyes—I feel the air shift, as though the past has slipped into the room beside me."

Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick - she's the sweet old lady down the street - known for her begrudging kindness, her sharp wit, and (if you dig deep enough) as the youngest murderer ever convicted.

"...I’ve spent much of my life gasping for breath...."

Known as "Mad Mabel" to the public, Elsie has done her time and chosen to live a quiet life, away from the cameras and sensational journalists.

"Unfortunately, with great expectation came the opportunity for great disappointment."

But then the neighbor she'd been feuding with drops dead, and Elsie makes an offhand comment about how she's glad she doesn't have to deal with the neighbor anymore...and the rumors start spreading.

But is Mad Mabel truly mad? Or was there an explanation for it all? Or is the true answer somewhere in between.

"No one had ever told me they were in love with me before. No one had ever told me they loved me."

Whew. I've read a couple of Sally Hepworth books over the years and I have always loved seeing how much she's grown and developed as an author through the years.

I do not say this lightly - this was a SOLID 5-star read for me. Seriously.

Right off the bat - I loved the alternating perspectives. Each time we switched between the young Mabel and the older Elsie, the way the author carefully peeled back a new layer to the story.

And let me tell you - I was INVESTED in this story. The way I cared for Mabel/Elsie throughout the book was at a level 10. Each new triumph for them was a cheer, and anyone who dared hurt them got put on "the list" (iykyk).

The tension was top-notch - each new reveal was a revelation and slotted more puzzle pieces into place - and when we got to the end? I won't spoil but it had me putting down the book in shock.

Wonderfully written and I cannot WAIT to see what Sally writes next.

[Canadian Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

How have I not read Hepworth?!
I love Mabel! She’s 81, grumpy, funny and edgy. She Isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Respect. She goes by Elsie because ‘Mad Mabel’ wasn’t a name she wanted to carry into the future. After all, who would want to be associated with a murderess! Yes, she is apparently the youngest female murderer in Australian history.
But, now present day, she is being framed for a murder she didn’t commit. Even if she had of wanted to. She does has some control.
Mad Mabel is a loveable- if a bit cantankerous -character. She finds there are people who actually care for her despite her wicked history even this late in life.
I absolutely adored her and this story.
5⭐️

[Sydney Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

[Jayme C (Brunetteslikebookstoo) · Rating 4 out of 5]

NOW AVAILABLE!!

“When it comes to murder, no one ever suspects little girls or old ladies”-Unless, apparently, your name is Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick.

According to her “loving” father-she was responsible for the first death when she was just three years old. And, after a series of other “unfortunate” incidents, fifteen year old Mabel Waller became the youngest Australian in history to be convicted of MURDER becoming known as MAD MABEL around the World.

Now, living under her new name, the 81 year old becomes a “person of interest” when she is the one to find her 93 year old neighbor dead, and Police find out who “Elsie” really is…

But is she guilty of EVERYTHING she was accused of? Is she guilty of ANY of it? And, most importantly, is she Mad?
(A double entendre for sure!)

The story alternates between THEN chapters-to fill in the past, and NOW chapters-where Elsie (Mabel) agrees to be interviewed for the first time, for ADLIB-a YouTube channel, hosted by Libby Conquest and Adeem Anand. The only constant in the two timelines-her enduring friendship with Daphne.

This story wasn’t at all what I was expecting based on the book blurb-it sounded like it would be yet another book this year about a senior citizen who slays, but it really isn’t.

What you CAN expect is a story about a dysfunctional childhood in THEN, and found family and community support in the NOW chapters.

It took awhile to capture my interest but by about 35%, I was all in.

Stealing every scene in the present day, is Mabel’s 7 year old neighbor, Persephone and a yappy dog named Nugget, who both manage to bring out her softer side.

I wish the last chapter had been different-

It could be the latest LOVE IT or HATE IT ending that Sally Hepworth has written. I couldn’t help but recall the ending of her book “The Younger Wife” which ended up being changed prior to publication date based on early feedback. I was team “LOVE IT” for that book (and was disappointed with the change) and I do believe the author should be able to write her stories any way that she wants to-even though this time the ending didn’t work for me!

Lots of discussion with the friends I buddy read this with.(MarilynW, DeAnn and Mary Beth)-especially about how this ended. Be sure to keep an eye out for their reviews!

Thank You to St. Martin’s Press for the very early ARC provided by NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️s

Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick has lived quietly on Kenny Lane for sixty years, hiding the past life where she was once known as Mad Mabel. But when a young girl named Persephone moves into the neighborhood and decides they are destined to become besties, much to Elsie’s dismay, her carefully guarded world begins to unravel.

As Elsie’s past slowly comes to light, the story unfolds through dual timelines following both teenage Mabel and 81 year old Elsie.

Don’t go into this expecting a thriller or hard core mystery or you’re likely to be disappointed. While I’ve seen it labeled as a domestic thriller or mystery, I think it’s more accurately described as a character-driven domestic suspense novel.

Even though this wasn’t what I expected, and I could see where it was heading, I still really enjoyed it. I have a soft spot for unlikely friendships, as well as curmudgeonly and opinionated octogenarians, and Elsie definitely fits the bill. Mabel is one of those characters who will stay with me for a long time, and I absolutely loved getting to know her.

Mad Mabel is another winner from Sally Hepworth and I look forward to whatever she writes next.

Now available! My thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for my digital ARC.

[Rachel Hanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Usually when I finish a book, I write my review right away. With this book, I’m glad I waited. I finished reading “Mad Mabel” last night, and at the conclusion I thought I would be giving this book four stars. However, throughout the day today, I’ve thought about Elsie (Mabel) and her young neighbor, Persephone, a little too much. I realized that I resonated with these two characters more than I thought, and I’m still feeling their pain and grief even though the story is over. With that being said, I’ve realized this is a five star read for me. Not only did I resonate and feel for the characters, but I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see what would happen next.

In this story, we have “Then” and “Now” chapters. In the “Now”, Mabel is currently 81 years old, and due to a death of her neighbor and some unusual circumstances, she agrees to be interviewed for a YouTube interview. During this interview we go back into the “Then” chapters, and we are able to relive Mabel’s childhood and early teenage years. It is there we learn how Mabel (who now goes by Elsie), got her nickname of “Mad Mabel”.

I will say that I felt quite a few emotions while reading this book. I would be angry one minute, sad the next, and then laughing a few minutes later. Mabel had quite the personality, even at her age! This book also shows you how people do not know how to think for themselves, and are very quick to judge others based off of what one or a few people say about said person. It was very upsetting to read at times.

While you may be able to predict where this story is going (I’ll admit I did), it still doesn’t take anything away from it. I highly recommend reading this book!

Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and the author for a DRC of this book in which I had the pleasure of reading in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: April 21, 2026

[JanB · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m certain I’ll be on Outlier Island with this review, but here we are.

What didn’t work for me:
- Spending major portions of the book in the past when Mabel was a young girl. I found it boring and predictable. It completely took me out of the present day story which I found more compelling
- The bad guys, of which there are many and they are actual guys, men, of course. I’ve said it 1000x but I’m tired of this theme
- The bad ones are almost laughably bad. They were cartoonish and the only thing missing was a twirling mustache
- Many of the situations strained credulity past the point where I can accept it
- The bullying by children and adults when she herself was a child, again, was overdone and silly
- Many plot holes and unexplained situations
- Lack of depth & character development
- The ending
- The police…oh my give me a break. That situation caused my eyes to roll.

What I liked
- I love an older MC, especially one who is witty and snarky. I would have liked more wit & snark though
- The little girl Persephone stole my heart but there simply wasn’t enough of her in the book to sway my overall feelings
- The dog
- Despite these things I just failed to find the story charming or funny or even heartwarming. The character development was lacking to make me feel much of anything.

A buddy read with Marialyce, be sure to look for her review and see if we agreed.

I’m a fan of the author’s, all but one of her previous books was awarded 4 or 5 stars from me. This wasn’t for me, but I’ll read everything she writes and I look forward to her next book

* I received a digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own

[MagretFume · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a beautiful story full of deep and fascinating characters.

When I started this book I was under the false impression that it would be a light book about a senior serial killer. I was very wrong. 

It is a deep, heartfelt tale about family toxicity, hate, loneliness but most of all love in all its forms and at all stages of life. 

It's cute, it's funny, it's heartbreaking and so, so, relatable and compelling. 
I loved every page of it and I will probably think about this book for a long time. 

Thank you much St. Martin's Press for this ARC!

[Hades ( Disney's version ) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for an ALC of Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

I knew by the end of the intro I was going to love it here, lucky I have a knack for predictions.

The way I'm being spoileddddd, with these thrillers so far this year!..Like an injured, wild, animal that has just been found by the white lady in Lululemon and Lands End.. My standards for Thrillers are at an all time high.

Split into two equally addictive timelines we meet our FMC. I loved how the present timeline was giving A Man Called Ove feels! 🥹.... Now, please don't get me wrong. The two stories couldn't be more different. But it's the sense of community involvement (whether it be for the good or bad, wanted or not) But the big similarity that melts my non existent heart is how both books highlight the impact the elderly can have on the youth.

Young children are notoriously known for being good judges of character. Which makes sense, when you consider the fact that most small children are mainly just looking for love and safety. So young Persephone's pure magnetic pull towards our FMC (like a barnacle to a boat) Is really the quietest roar to our FMCs true character.

Through the second timeline we see how others can impact the youth in not so great ways, terrible ways actually. Such as gaslighting, grooming, gossip, etc. And the fact, while some might call her "bitter" our FMC is a rockstar! Breaking generational curses and choosing to make the world a better place instead of being consumed by hate and spreading it like a disease. She is definitely getting added to my list of all time favorite characters.

What makes someone "good" or "bad"? Who is actually qualified to judge?
and how much is open to interpretation?

Far from your average thriller Mad Mabel uses beautiful writing and deeper themes to deliver us a thrilling masterpiece! Definitely a must read!


Until next time,
Hades
🩵

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gripping, moving, thought provoking and shocking. Sally Hepworth has delivered yet again (when does she not?)! I had a hard time putting this book down as I was entranced by the twists, turns, and revelations. This book is told in then and now timelines which tell the story by peeling back one woman's life from childhood to adulthood.

Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick, an 81-year-old woman who has been called 'Mad Mabel' for most of her life. She has lived on her street for a very long time and seems to know everyone's businesses. She has been befriended by Persephone, a young girl in the neighborhood and they have a lovely friendship. When a neighbor dies and people begin to know her business, Elsie a.k.a. Mad Mabel beings to tell her story. It is a moving and heartbreaking story that had me feeling all kinds of emotions. It is a story of love, of neglect, of abuse, of cruelty, of gossip, of suspicion, of bullying, of survival, of nurturing by her aunt, and a story of loss.

As people begin to know more about elderly Elsie/Mabel, it becomes a story of acceptance, friendship, enlightenment, strength, and moving on. In some ways, 81-year-old Elsie/Mad Mabel reminded me of Olive Kitteridge in her frankness, her bluntness, and her grumpy exterior. But Elsie is also caring, witty, sarcastic, and brave. Will her actions speak louder than words people say about her?

I found myself feeling mad for her as a young girl and how she carried the heavy burden of being labeled 'Mad' by society. I was mad about how she was judged, bullied, and tormented. She was the child everyone looked at when things went awry, when people got hurt, or accidents happened. I felt for her loneliness, rejoiced as her aunt advocated for her, and sighed deeply when life threw her lemons. But was Elsie 'mad'? Did societies actions make her 'mad', or was she an innocent child forced to bear something that was never hers to bear? This book had me pondering how the labels assigned to people affect them? Is it fair to judge someone for something we know little to nothing about?

As with her previous books, Mad Mabel is beautifully written, well thought out, moving, and thought provoking. Sally Hepworth is a must-read author for me and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.

This was a wonderful buddy read with Dorie and Brenda from Witches Words. Please read their reviews as well to get her thoughts on Mad Mabel!

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meet Mad Mabel. Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick is eighty-one years old. And boy, is she a hoot!

Elsie wasn't always this funny, grumpy old lady; she was once accused of murder.

This book begins with Elsie and her best friend, Daphne, joking around when a note appears under her door, which will change her life.

This book is very funny, but it packs quite an emotional punch. My heart ached at times for Mabel as we learn about her childhood. The people who were supposed to look out for her the most failed her in every way, except for Cess and Ness.

I love that, despite everything Mabel endured, it didn't break her. Sure, she had walls to protect herself, but sometimes it only takes that one persistent person to change your entire heart, even if that person is only six years old.

[megs_bookrack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect when I went into Mad Mabel. The synopsis didn't jump out at me as a novel I'd need to read with any sort of immediacy. However, it is from Sally Hepworth and she's never let me down.

I was afraid this would be more literary than I tend to enjoy, or that the little kid mentioned in the synopsis would drive me nuts. Spoiler alert: I'm not big on kids.



Regardless, I had to find out for myself how Mad Mabel was going to play out, and I'm so glad that I did. I loved this, full stop. I was on the brink of tears for like the last 15%. I can't believe how emotionally-connected I became with these characters and this story.

Elsie, aka. Mad Mabel, will definitely be in the running for my favorite character of the year!!



The audiobook, narrated by Hannah Fredericksen and Jenny Seedsman, is absolutely the way to go, IMO. Their voice work brought this story to life. I was swept away and couldn't put it down once I started.

We get both a past and present perspective from Elsie. The past perspective is filled with fascinating details as we learn about her family, her upbringing, and how she earned her reputation as Mad Mabel. Happily, this is one of those cases where both perspectives are equally compelling.

I loved learning about Elsie's past because it added so much context to her present character, but the present was so fun as well. Elsie is 81-years old in the present perspective and her delivery and the way she interacted with others had me cackling on more than one occasion.



Equally though, there were moments that broke my heart. I feel like this range of emotions that I felt while reading this is a testament to Hepworth's talent. I was so invested, I felt like I was a part of the narrative.

I would recommend this to anyone who has enjoyed Hepworth's work in the past, but also to anyone who just really loves endearing elder characters. If you enjoyed Too Old For This, or The Marigold Cottage Murder Collective, I think you'll really enjoy this one as well.

Thank you to the publisher, Macmillan Audio, for providing me with a copy to read and review. This story grabbed me by the heart and never let go. This will definitely be on my Best Books list for 2026!

[Abbie Konnick · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 🌟 - more thoughts to come with The Twisted Book Club in July!!

[Sarah • semi ia · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we’ll ever do.” - Brené Brown



౨ৎ⋆˚｡⋆ Wow! This was so good! I can see why so many of my GR friends spoke so highly of it because, good Lord, I really enjoyed this. And I’ll tell you why.

When a neighbor of eighty-one-year-old Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick dies, she doesn’t think much of it. How or why he passed is of no concern to her. All she wants is to be left alone, even though a certain seven-year-old named Persephone likes to invade her personal space and hang out with her. However, when the police start questioning her, and the media releases headlines about her past, Elsie realizes that time doesn’t always bury what you want hidden. But instead of allowing others to tell her story for her, Elsie decides to take matters into her own hands and tell the world the truth about a time when she was famously known as Mad Mabel Waller.

I cannot tell you how much of an emotional rollercoaster this story was. One minute I was laughing; the other I was about ready to cry; the next I was going to start throwing hands because, excuse me, what?? Why are people so damn cruel? Ugh, like I will never, ever understand how small-minded and ignorant and mean some people in this world can be to be literal bullies to a child. If you want something to worry or gossip about, talk about Brenda sleeping with the mailman, or how Todd has a drinking problem, or how sad your life is that you, a grown-ass adult, think it’s your God-given duty to make a little girl’s life miserable–leave poor Mabel alone, for crying out loud! 😭🙏🏼

Ooh, and don’t even get me started on Mabel’s dad. Oh, you want to call someone mad? Well, say it to my face because I can be just as insane as you are, sir. Don’t leave me in the same room with him because he will be crying for help like the pathetic worm that he is. Istg, the hatred and burning rage I felt and still feel for that monster and another person I don’t even want to mention needs to be studied. I haven’t felt this mad in a LONG time. Like, don’t test me, bro. If your face just so happens to hit my fists, it’s your fault, not mine. Natural selection is a thing for a reason, buster.


Okay, I need to relax and move on before I say some things I’m going to regret, lol. 😅

I’m just glad Elsie had Daphne, Persephone, and her other neighbors who showed her what acceptance and love really are. Friendship is such a beautiful thing, and it makes me sad that there are so many lonely people out there in the world. Even then, sometimes you can be surrounded by people and still feel alone. Anyways, I smiled whenever Daphne and Persephone were present. Sure, Elsie is a cantankerous, grouchy old woman, but it was sweet to see her with her friend and warm up to little Persephone.

And those twists at the end? I genuinely did not see them coming. I didn’t think there would be any surprises, even though I’ve read so many reviews for this book. I was just that invested in the story that I didn’t even try to think about how the story ended. All I wanted was for Elsie to find peace. 😭🙏🏼

I will say, however, that I did think some things were going to happen, but didn’t end up happening, which made me a little confused, but that’s what I get for 1) not reading the blurb and 2) forgetting what I read in reviews. 😂 I also kinda didn’t like one of the twists at the end. It made me sad and disappointed, not in the story or characters or anything, but just in general.

But everything else was great! I loved the writing, the short and snappy chapters, and the characters who weren’t jerks. I literally had so much fun reading this, and I will be reading more of Sally Hepworth’s works in the future! ❤

⋆˚࿔ Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own. ⋆˚࿔


《 Content Warnings 》
Suicide, death, murder, violence, blood, misogyny, some nudity, inappropriate relationship between an adult and a child, & some homophobic comments.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Kissing and mentions a couple going at it. (🌶.5/5)

[Heather Adores Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐
Genre ~ psychological fiction, domestic drama, women's fiction
Setting ~ Australia
Publication date ~ April 21, 2026
Publisher ~ St Martin’s Press & Macmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 352 (p+ 80 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 20 minutes
Narrators ~ Hannah Fredericksen & Jenny Seedsman
POV ~ dual 1st, same person then and now timeline
Featuring ~ childhood bullying, child abuse, inappropriate student/teacher relationship, grooming

Mabel didn't have the best childhood, as you might be able to guess from my featuring highlights. Things especially got tricky when she was accused of murder at such a young age of 15.

Now Mabel is 81 and goes by Elsie. When her neighbor turns up dead suspiciously, and people start to catch wind of who she really is, Mad Mabel, fingers are pointed at her. YouTubers are coming around wanting to interview her. I could totally see myself watching it.

Persephone, a young 7 year old neighbor, weasels her way into Mabel's heart and they have a sweet little friendship. In their interactions we get to see that she's not the cranky old lady that everyone thinks she is.

Overall, this is definitely not in the thriller category, but that's fine if you know that going in. It's got a twist or two, and I'm not entirely sure how I feel about the last chapter from Persephone, but I'm glad she was she got one.

Narration notes:
Absolutely thrilled there were two. It really helped to distinguish Mable in the present and the past.

Prereading notes:
Yay! I'm excited to listen to this one 💃

[Liana Gold · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ 4.5 ⭐️ This was a complete tearjerker that took me by surprise. The book swept me off my feet with its perfect blend of dark humor and emotional depth that centered on the quiet life of a previously convicted murderer, Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick also known as 'Mad Mabel'. What was supposed to be a simple mystery/women's fiction novel turned into an unforgettable, heart gripping story with a twist that reframed the narrative. An innocent childhood turned upside down, Elsies journey from childhood to adulthood explores how perceptions shape the truth and how childhood can follow someone for life. Was Elsie really a cold blooded killer or is she a woman owning her own story?

Elsies' story begins with a neighbors death that ends Elsies quiet life. Elsie has lived on Kenny Lane for sixty years, much longer than all her other neighbors. She's lived a very quiet life, staying away from prying eyes of her neighbors and neighborhood, the press, the police, you name it. Her peace becomes disturbed when her 90 year old neighbor unexpectedly dies and Elsie is suspected of foul play. No one knew that Elsie decades earlier was knowns as 'Mad Mabel' Waller, Australias youngest convicted murderer at fifteen. So who said what and how did they find out?? The police opens up an investigation, media descends upon her and an 81 year old Elsie decides to set the record straight. The story then begins to alternate between present day investigation and 1950's flashbacks that will keep you guessing until the very end, making you question every little thing we learn to discover about who Elsie is or who she was. Was Elsie truly ever mad or simply misunderstood?

Elsie is not your typical frail and 'old' woman. She is no non-sense, straight to the point, witty and clever. If she doesn't like someone, she sure will say it how it is. She prefers to stay hidden from the world and left alone, that is until a little seven-year old disturbs her peace. Persephone is her cute neighbor that unravels her relaxed life, relentlessly bothering Elsie on a daily basis. The thing is, underneath all that hard armor, Elise doesn't mind and grows very fond of Persephone and an unlikely friendship forms. She grows attached to Persephone and begins to take care of her. Through that bond, Persephone manages to soften Elsie and help change the neighbors perceptions of Elsie, creating a sense of belonging and found family. But don't let the softness and laughing, sweet moments fool you because underneath all that layering lies a story full of sadness, mystery and heartbreak that centers on justice and identity, love and acceptance.

Sally Hepworth's writing shines through the unforgettable main character who was the perfect narrator. I haven't been this eager to see how a characters story unfolds as I have been with Elsie's story. I thought all the characters were well layered, unique in their own way. All the side characters added a quietness to the story that in turn highlighted how peoples perceptions of us shape our own truths. Most importantly it speaks on JUDGEMENT--that judgement prevents us from seeing the good that lies beyond our appearances. In Elsies case, people knew her name but not her STORY. Mother Teresa once said, "If you judge people, you have no time to love them" and this was quite evident through the flashbacks of Mabels childhood. Kids, her neighbors, her school and even her own father have passed judgement on Mabel since she was three years old. She grew up in a household where she wasn't loved and seen, but rather tolerated. She was under scrutiny, labeled as 'MAD' since her toddlerhood and that perception of her was carried into her adulthood leaving to room for change, love or acceptance. Kindness was not her friend. Cruelty has shaped her life. Mabel was anything but mad, she was a child who went through childhood trauma and grown into a strong, independent, fearless woman. LOTS to admire here, LOTS to take away from this story. Lots to appreciate in the power of redemption and second chances.

This book is featured on BOTM. Grab it only for $1 just this month (by April 30th) using this link: https://www.mybotm.com/bgnrjn6qk0o
You can always cancel your subscription at no cost! I love BOTM and always recommend them!

Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martins Press and the author, Sally Hepworth for sending me this eARC!

Publication date: April 21, 2026

[Laura Lovesreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

MAY I HAVE THE SPUNK OF MABEL WHEN I GET OLD

Mad Mabel is about 81 year old Elsie "Mabel" Fitzpatrick. At fifteen years old she became the youngest Australian in history to be convicted of murder. Now in 2025 when her long term nemesis neighbour an elderly man is found dead, no one suspects any foul play. Until they discover Elsie's past.

“Friends are like oxygen. If you’ve been blessed enough to have always been surrounded by friends”

GUYS!!! Are you looking for another fictional character to completely swoon and become obsessed over? Well look no further because Mabel is your girl!

What an emotional read sprinkled with some absolute laugh out loud moments! I adore Mabel and her personality is right up my street and I hope to have the larger than life personality that she exuded for me when I'm an old woman!

The supporting casts Daphne, Peter and the most adorable Persephone were a joy to read about and kept me smiling throughout!

“The child can call me Horace as long as she goes the fuck to sleep.”

The story is told in a dual timeline and the past chapters had me in an emotional chokehold.

I will say that the story read more of a character driven novel than a thriller but boy was there some reveals that i did not see coming and took me aback!

“In my experience, love has always been synonymous with terror.”

That last chapter... lip quivering and watery eyes have entered the chat!

It clearly goes without saying that Mad Mabel will be a part of my top 10 reads of 2026 and i cant wait for Sally's next novel releasing next year!

“Sometimes murderers are bad people. Sometimes murderers kill bad people. Sometimes murderers are good people who make bad decisions.”

[Terrie R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mad Mabel is the seventh novel I've read by Sally Hepworth, and I like that it's different than her other mystery-suspense stories. It feels more like a character study suffused with sadness and resilience, and the hope of human connection.

Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick has lived in the same house on Kenny Lane for sixty years and has been known throughout the neighborhood as grumpy and unapproachable. Elsie prefers to keep to herself, but when 7-year-old, chatty, inquisitive Persephone insists on befriending her, unfortunate events snowball into Elsie's worst fear: hearing the name Mad Mabel...

An addictive read, with short chapters and alternating “Now” and “Then” timelines that weave the past with the present, and keep the pages flipping. I love how Hepworth centers her storytelling on challenging family dynamics, a diverse mix of characters, and twists and turns you don't see coming. However, the ending twist was more expected than otherwise.

An immersive reading experience, the audiobook is narrated by Hannah Fredericksen and Jenny Seedsman, whose performances are spot-on, proving that this author always has the best narrators.

Mad Mabel is a creative story that shows the dangers of rumor and gossip, the power of knowledge and understanding, and the strength in knowing your truth. Mabel will join the list of my favorite fictional characters!

4⭐

Thank you, St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio, and Sally Hepworth for the gifted DRC and ALC through NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Delaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

As with Darling Girls, I felt like this read much more like women’s fiction with a mystery/thriller sub plot than a full blown thriller… & I loved it! Mabel is such an icon. I was hooked right from the start & didn’t want to put this down!

[Brenda ~The Sisters~Book Witch · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve got a soft spot for Sally Hepworth, and honestly, I’m giving her my highest praise by calling her a Word Witch. That’s what I call authors who can spin words like spells, turning simple stories into something magical. Hepworth has this way of taking people who seem at a glance living ordinary lives and show us just how extraordinary they really are.

Confession Time: At first, I wasn’t sure I was in the mood for this one. I worried it wouldn’t cast the usual spell her other books have on me. And truthfully, this isn’t the first time I’ve felt that hesitation. But here’s what I’ve learned: trust Sally Hepworth. Keep reading. Because sure enough, while the spark of magic came a little later than I’d hoped, that emotional spell she’s so gifted at weaving still pulled me under in the end.

What Lit My Mood
Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick known as Mad Mabel in her past is prickly, sharp-tongued, grumpy and seems perfectly content to live out her days alone. But beneath her sarcasm and stubbornness lies a tangle of secrets she’d rather no one uncover. Enter Persephone, her exuberant seven-year-old neighbor, who bounces (not quietly) into her world and refuses to be shut out.

This book weaves together themes of loneliness, family, unexpected friendships, society’s groupthink, and the way we label people. Hepworth has such a gift for capturing relatable emotional truths and you feel how they shape the character into who they are.

And while the book brims with humor and warmth, she doesn’t shy away from the heavier spells: grief, trauma, abuse and mental health.

Where My Mood Flickered
I usually look to Hepworth to cast that sharp suspense spell, the kind that keeps me whispering, “just one more chapter.”This time, the mystery’s magic wasn’t as potent as I’d hoped, with the emotional themes taking center stage instead. But here’s the thing, those very spells of truth and feeling were woven so well that by the end, I was enchanted. And yes, she still conjures up a twist, unpredictable and satisfying, that seals the perfect closing of the circle.

Witchy Mood Reader Rating
Fully aligned, mood met: I was spell-fed by the emotional truths, even if the mystery didn’t grip me as tightly as her other tales.

Verdict: Mark your calendar for April 21, 2026 and make space on your altar for the Sorceress of Twisty Truths herself, Sally Hepworth. This one’s for when you’re craving a story where relationships, lies, and emotions collide in the most magical of ways.

This was a Witches Words buddy read with Debra and Dorie

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley

[꧁ ༺Minne༻ ꧂ (Back :)) · Rating 4 out of 5]

★ ★ ★1/2

🗝️ In 1959, at just fifteen years of age, Mabel Waller became the youngest Australian in history to be convicted of murder. Media interest around the case was enormous due to the aggressive nature of the crime. Rumours abounded that this was not her first murder, and this has remained a topic of debate for decades. She is known around the world as Mad Mabel. But is she mad? More importantly, is she guilty? 🗝️

This was a good story and one of the better thrillers I’ve read, but when it comes to thrillers, for me, plausibility is the thief of stars.

Mabel is a sarcastic, grumpy 81 year old woman living a quiet, almost forgotten life. When a neighbour turns up dead, Mabel becomes a suspect in his murder, and her past comes knocking in the form of a story that refuses to stay buried.

Mad Mabel unfolds through alternating timelines, slipping between the past and the present.

Those who know Mabel would say she’s enigmatic and bold. What they don’t know is that she was once an unwanted, lonely, and vulnerable child. In Mabel’s childhood, affection is scarce, but cruelty is not. It starts with her own parents and ripples through the community. They isolate her, abuse her, and name her Mad Mabel. And once a name like that sticks, it becomes impossible to outrun.

But why does the pattern cling to her like a shadow? Why do people around Mabel die, again and again?

✎ᝰ. 💭 I think the best thing about Mad Mabel is that it inspires big feelings, even when it leaves you questioning certain revelations.

In some ways, I think the story is absolutely brilliant. A big part of this book hinges on Mabel’s unusual friendship with 7 year old Persephone. It feels almost predestined.
Persephone mirrors who Mabel once was: lonely, perceptive, and searching for connection in places others might overlook.

🗝️ I just thought… since I was lonely with no one to play with, you might be lonely too.”🗝️

Their friendship is unexpectedly beautiful, filled with moments of humour and the kind of honesty only children are capable of.

🗝️ Because I’m eighty-one. And you’re… how old?’
‘Seven.’


‘How many seven-year-olds do you know who are friends with eighty-one-year-olds?’
‘It’s not ideal,’ she agrees, after a moment’s consideration. ‘But beggars can’t be choosers.’
I feel a rare moment of pity for the child. ‘You’re not a beggar, child.’


She laughs. ‘I know that. You’re the beggar. I’m the chooser. Because I choose you! 🗝️

Mabel is living out the last years of her life, while Persephone’s has barely begun. Persephone reminds Mabel of a kind of humanity and beauty found in being loved unconditionally, simply for existing. She heals a part of Mabel that had long been neglected. Mabel, in turn, is in the best position to protect Persephone. Their connection is beautiful because they fit together like puzzle pieces, matching the crevices carved into them by others and by the world around them.

The mystery is where things go awry for me. Most of the revelations are left for the last quarter of the novel. Some are shocking, some predictable, and others a little over the top and unbelievable. But despite its flaws, I really can’t say it’s a bad book. The revelations either work for you or they don’t. They make or break the story. For me, it’s complicated. I was genuinely moved at times, even if some of the twists had me scratching my head. It may not be perfect, but it still leans closer to a 4 star read for me, so that’s where I’m settling for now.

[Lindsay L · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 amazing audiobook stars!

Happy Publication Day to Mad Mabel! I’m a big fan of this author and I think this is her best novel yet! These characters were phenomenal!

A neighbourhood full of secrets…but please don’t think this is your average, run-of-the-mill neighbourhood drama. This is a cleverly written, brilliantly plotted, multi-layered, twisty, unique and memorable mystery. Equal parts serious and humorous. This had me fully invested, intrigued and entertained from start to finish.

An unlikely friendship between an 81-year-old woman and 7-year-old girl. The relationship between these two neighbours is the thread that weaves through, holds together and propels this story forward. This relationship was my most favourite part of this remarkable story!

Told through dual timelines of Then and Now, each had an equal grip on me. Both narratives unfold with engrossing and addictive storytelling. I never wanted the timelines to switch, as I became so fully invested in each that I didn’t want the break in having to wait to see what happened next.

This book had me laughing out loud, but also tearing up. The inner thoughts and snark were highly entertaining. The characters were real, raw and honest. This was an emotional reading experience but with equal parts laughter and heartache.

A central theme throughout the novel was the value and importance of female friendships. Female platonic love. I loved how the author presented and explored this topic in thought-provoking, eye-opening ways.

There are some very heavy aspects to this story, grief, abuse and neglect being main topics. It has many funny moments, but also has grit, deep sadness and emotion. It provides insightful and reflective themes that will keep the reader thinking of this long after finishing the book.

This was a highly anticipated novel for me and I’m happy to report it not only lived up to my hopes, but surpassed them. This not only makes my 2026 Favourites list, but also my All Time Favourite list 🏆

Audio rating: 5+ stars! Both of the narrators did an incredible job with the presentation of this story! They each embraced their characters’ whole persona perfectly. They immensely added to my enjoyment. I think listening to the audio made this book even more impactful than if I had read it.

Thank you to the publishers for my digital and audio review copies!

This is OUT TODAY!

[Teres · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite in the habit of calling her neighbors “dipshit” before breakfast, 81-year-old Elsie Fitzpatrick, is content living on Kenny Lane, a cobbled Melbourne back-street.

But after the death of her nextdoor nemesis, a very old newspaper clipping about Mad Mabel Waller mysteriously surfaces.

Turns out, in 1959, Elsie became the youngest Australian in history to be convicted of murder.

Uh oh. The revelation forces Elsie to break her half-century of silence and come clean about her guarded identity.

If you're looking for a mystery with heart and humor, Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth fits the bill nicely.

Warning: be prepared to fall in love with the precocious seven-year-old Persephone who chooses Elsie as her best friend.

[chloé (slumping) · Rating 5 out of 5]

if you see this, you should add this book to your tbr

i never expected this to be a five star read in the slightest.

all i have to say is read this book. go in blind if you can. i don't want to give anything away because every single page of this book is worth the ride.

magnificent Mabel indeed. ♡

[The Belladonna · Rating 4 out of 5]

"There's been another death, it's never been more important to clear your name."

Goodreads, Mad Mabel is my second Netgalley read! Woooo let's gooo!

Mad Mabel is due for release on April 21, 2026.

A thriller packed with heart and charm! Sally Hepworth, my word, what a rollercoaster of emotions I was not expecting!

They call her Mad Mabel. But is she mad? In a world first, Mabel Waller, at the age of eighty-one, is telling her story. Take a ride with her back to her childhood. Death followed her everywhere, but was she really a murderer? Told in a then and now fashion, it is a heartfelt mystery packed with wit, suspense, twists, and... that ending? Maybe have some tissues nearby, dear readers, it's a bit of a tear-jerker. This book would be a fabulous and fun read for a book club, there are so many topics for discussion!

“I didn't stop running until the house was a blur in the distance and the rain had soaked me straight through, like it was trying to wash the whole thing away.”

A big Thank You to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for gifting me this advanced copy. It was an absolute pleasure to read and review this book.

[Meagan (Meagansbookclub) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honestly, my biggest feeling when I finished Mad Mabel was underwhelmed. I heard this was a departure from Sally’s typical twisty plot line, and I do agree with that, but there were pieces of this book that didn’t feel original. Is it a cozy mystery?? Is it a dark suspense?? Is it a family drama?? I’m at a loss at what genre Sally was trying to write.

While reading, I kept waiting for something to happen! It felt like she was building up to a big reveal, and when we finally got there, I rolled my eyes. The ending was honestly pretty unbelievable. The story I think had something strong at the beginning, but as we progressed through it, I started to lack interest as the plot kept stalling out. When it comes to this dark family drama mystery genre, I need to feel connected to someone! and there was a huge lack of emotion and character development with the main characters. I think you can get away with lack of depth in a thriller, but it was needed here for sure.

Unfortunately, after 3 in a row rated 2-3 ⭐️, I think Sally has now become an author I no longer gravitate to.