Oh how I wanted to love this book! The description of it sounded right up my ally—a missing family, ridiculous wealth, yachts, a movie star—but I struggled to even get into the story. It was slow to start, but I hung in there because I thought the character development would be important to the story. But it felt like the author introduced quite a few characters, some in too much detail, early on and it was hard to focus on who was who and why it mattered that we know so much about each of them. I will be honest, I didn’t finish reading this book, after getting just past halfway, it hadn’t picked up momentum for me and I put it down. Which makes me sad becasue, again, I really wanted to love this book! I’m curious to read other reviews because I’m definitely not opposed to going back to it if others say the second half is good!

The killer premise is just the beginning in this twisty, claustrophobic, nautical thriller. Between the dangers of the open sea, the deliciously toxic family aboard their luxury yacht, and the mystery of how an entire family can disappear into thin air, McGuire's perfectly crafted tension will drive readers to turn pages into the wee hours--which is exactly what I did.

I devoured No One Aboard. An entire family and crew members missing off their upscale sailboat found by a fisherman? I’m intrigued and it gives me locked in vibes too which is since a bonus (for me).

The Cameron’s are a blend of a rich mogul and Hollywood actress with twin children about to turn 18. Tia and Ryland have secrets - both from each other and with each other. But then again, everyone seems to have secrets here.

The pov is a split timeline from when the boat is found and everyone is missing to bring in the actual timeline of the Cameron’s and crew ON the boat prior to their disappearance into seemingly thin air.

So well done and emotionally charged, I loved this twisty thriller that also pulled on my heart strings.

Who’s alive? Who’s dead? What happened on that boat? What’s the outcome and how does the fisherman that found the Cameron’s decadent sailboat fit in? There were some predictable twists but also a few blindsiding twists and honestly none of the characters were likable and I assume that was the way it was meant to be.

What a fun read about family dynamics and how far the people that are supposed to love you can push you to your limits. Emotionally, physically and morally.

Good stuff and a great debut! I’ll be back for more from the author. Posting on my IG page also.

Thanks to NetGalley and to Emy McGuire for reaching out personally and asking me to read it! I loved it!

Out in December - get it on your radar now.
Such a fun read!

No One Aboard by Emy McGuire is a compelling psychological suspense that hooks you from the very first chapter. When billionaire couple Francis and Lila Cameron set off on a luxurious sailing trip to celebrate their children's graduations, no one anticipates the ominous turn the story will take. The narrative masterfully unfolds over two timelines—the idyllic days of their vacation and the tense aftermath after the boat is discovered drifting off the Florida coast, completely empty. The contrast between the carefree family moments and the sinister mystery of their disappearance creates a palpable sense of unease. McGuire does an excellent job layering secrets and motives among the family members and crew, making each character complex and suspicious. As the story progresses, the reader is taken deeper into the stormy ocean of family dynamics, unspoken truths, and hidden resentments—highlighting that sometimes, the greatest danger lies not in the elements but within ourselves. The writing is sharp, atmospheric, and keeps the suspense high until the final pages. While some plot twists may be predictable, the overall atmosphere and character development make this a satisfying read that will appeal to fans of nautical mysteries and family dramas alike. In summary, No One Aboard is a beautifully crafted, thought-provoking novel that explores the perilous waters beneath a seemingly perfect family façade. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a suspenseful, emotionally charged read.