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The New House
A totally addictive and absolutely gripping psychological thriller you won’t be able to put down…
Three couples.
About to purchase their dream home.
How far would you go to get the perfect life?
Perfect for fans of Louise Candlish and Shari Lapena, this domestic, psychological suspense novel will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Three couples.
About to purchase their dream home.
How far would you go to get the perfect life?
Perfect for fans of Louise Candlish and Shari Lapena, this domestic, psychological suspense novel will keep you on the edge of your seat.
384 pages, Paperback
First published August 4, 2022
About the author
Tess Stimson
18 books552 followersTess Stimson frequently contributes to newspapers and women's magazines. Born in England, she graduated from Oxford before working as a television news producer. Stimson is also the author of Hard News, Soft Focus, Pole Position, The Adultery Club, The Infidelity Chain (UK)/One Good Affair (US), The Nanny (UK)/Who Loves You Best (US), What's Yours Is Mine, The Wife Who Ran Away, The Lying Game and An Open Marriage, which will be published in July 2014. She is also the author of two works of non-fiction, Beat the Bitch: How to Stop the Other Woman Stealing Your Man, and Yours Till The End: The biography of a Beirut Hostage. She lives in Vermont with her family, and is currently at work on her next novel, The Wife-in-Law.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,335 reviews
July 8, 2022
*4.5 stars*
If you’ve ever been through the process of buying a house, you’ll appreciate what a stressful experience it is - so many things can go wrong to deprive you of the house that you’ve set your heart on - most of those things outside of your control. However, ‘The New House’ takes the house buying process to a whole new crazy and scary level!
Three couples, all of them eager to buy each other’s houses. An unnamed narrator relates the whole sordid story to us, along with the POV of the characters involved in the housing chain. They’re all desperate to secure the house of their dreams, but throw a psychopath into the mix and you end up with a mind blowing, dark, disturbing and twisty thriller that is difficult to put down, and difficult to forget! A terrific read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Avon books for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
If you’ve ever been through the process of buying a house, you’ll appreciate what a stressful experience it is - so many things can go wrong to deprive you of the house that you’ve set your heart on - most of those things outside of your control. However, ‘The New House’ takes the house buying process to a whole new crazy and scary level!
Three couples, all of them eager to buy each other’s houses. An unnamed narrator relates the whole sordid story to us, along with the POV of the characters involved in the housing chain. They’re all desperate to secure the house of their dreams, but throw a psychopath into the mix and you end up with a mind blowing, dark, disturbing and twisty thriller that is difficult to put down, and difficult to forget! A terrific read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Avon books for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
August 4, 2022
There is a reason that buyers and sellers should remain anonymous to one another until the property transfer is closed……
There is also a reason you don’t become friends with those in the buying chain…
⚠️
The infamous “GLASS HOUSE” just went up “for sale”!
Owned by power couple Felix and Stacey Porter-She is the presenter of the Morning News and a minor celebrity-who doesn’t want just “anybody” to be the new owner of her home-
She wants to choose its next mistress…
Millie Downton WANTS the “Glass House” and she is determined to get it. Her husband, Tom is agreeable so, if she can convince Stacey to choose her, there should be no obstacles standing in her way, except for the sale of their own home-but it has been lovingly restored.
Fortunately, YouTube influencers, Kyle and Harper Conway, of Kyperlife are JUST as “in love” with the Downton’s home-as Millie is with the “Glass House”. They think it will be the perfect backdrop for their VLOG!
Offers are made and accepted and the process begins….
But NOT SO FAST!!
This isn’t a story just about real estate transactions-what fun would that be??
This is a psychological thriller and someone is not willing to take “NO” for an answer, when the transfer of properties hits a setback which could disrupt the whole chain.
Told from multiple POV’s Including an anonymous speaker presenting a SETtalk entitled “Inside the mind of a Psychopath” , we learn what happens when someone doesn’t get what she wants!
My favorite chapters were from Millie and Tom-the middle couple.
Millie is a blend of Millicent (from Samantha Downing’s “My Lovely Wife”) and Dexter Morgan.
The key to Millie and Tom’s successful relationship is “honesty” so Tom has learned to not ask a question if he is afraid of the answer-He knows about his wife’s “Dark Angel” and realizes that some things are better left unsaid.
After all-he reasons-“Who wants to read a novel when you know every twist before it happens and how the story will end?” (favorite quote)
But, if you think you know where this is headed-think again!
The other women are ADMIRABLE adversaries!
Which one is willing to push the boundaries the furthest to get what she wants??
The ending was a bit of a plausibility stretch preventing a five star rating from me, but no doubt that this one is ENTERTAINING from start to finish…
AVAILABLE NOW!
Thank You to Avon books for the gifted copy. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
July 9, 2022
I think I read a different book!
I'm in the minority, but this one didn't work for me for many, many reasons!
My second by the author, I do have Stolen, but haven't read it yet.
The beginning and the setup did intrigue me and I was enjoying Millie and her little addiction of breaking into people's houses! She really doesn't "do anything" though, just snoops around a bit. It rejuvenates her and she goes about it with a spring in her step.
Then, things took a slow dive (for me)!
I didn't buy into Millie's character, her actions didn't make sense much of the time. The three couples in the house buying/selling plot were also hard to imagine doing the things they did. The plot went pretty dark, they all had property crushes, very dysfunctional homes, some suffered from domestic abuse and their own dark angels.
You know the perfect storm is brewing, but for me it was more like a horror show with some cuckoos in their nests.
I'm clearly an outlier, read the raving five star reviews for other opinions.
Thanks to NG for my arc. OUT August 4, 2022
I'm in the minority, but this one didn't work for me for many, many reasons!
My second by the author, I do have Stolen, but haven't read it yet.
The beginning and the setup did intrigue me and I was enjoying Millie and her little addiction of breaking into people's houses! She really doesn't "do anything" though, just snoops around a bit. It rejuvenates her and she goes about it with a spring in her step.
Then, things took a slow dive (for me)!
I didn't buy into Millie's character, her actions didn't make sense much of the time. The three couples in the house buying/selling plot were also hard to imagine doing the things they did. The plot went pretty dark, they all had property crushes, very dysfunctional homes, some suffered from domestic abuse and their own dark angels.
You know the perfect storm is brewing, but for me it was more like a horror show with some cuckoos in their nests.
I'm clearly an outlier, read the raving five star reviews for other opinions.
Thanks to NG for my arc. OUT August 4, 2022
September 30, 2022
If ever the phrase "Be careful what you wish for" was fit to be used, this would surely be right up there with the best of them.
Stacey and Felix Porter own the Glass House, an architecturally unique property that Millie Downton has had her eyes on ever since she surreptitiously "visited" and walked around inside it one night. That's another story. She and her husband, Tom, have a free pass list of properties that if one of them ever becomes available, the other spouse has no choice but to say yes to purchasing it. Now that the Glass House is on the market, Millie's not going to take no for an answer.
Harper and Kyle Conway are YouTube influencers, under the name "Kyperlife", and Harper wants Millie and Tom's house as much as Millie wants Stacey and Felix's. She also won't take no for an answer, as she just knows it's going to look great on their vlogs and boost their social profile.
On the surface everyone should be happy to be getting what they want, right? Well, throw some psychopathy into the mix and things get a little more complicated! All bets are off when one part of the buyer's chain starts to backtrack on the deal.
Normal people would probably move on, but "normal" isn't on the table with this group. What's the game being played and who is playing who? All I can say is that it's a wickedly fun and tangled story that Tess Stimson has written, and I never thought I'd enjoy spending so much time in the mind of a psychopath! Through the fictitious SETTalks (like TEDTalks), I actually learned a surprising amount on the subject.
I listened to this on audio and Penelope Rawlins was pitch perfect in her voicing of the characters. She brought this bunch and all their personalities to life deliciously! Her voicing of Millie and Harper was particularly good.
As with her prior book, Stolen, Stimson loves a good dramatic ending, and she certainly delivered with this one as well. I highly recommend a read or listen ... just never do business with anyone like them!
★★★★ ½
Stacey and Felix Porter own the Glass House, an architecturally unique property that Millie Downton has had her eyes on ever since she surreptitiously "visited" and walked around inside it one night. That's another story. She and her husband, Tom, have a free pass list of properties that if one of them ever becomes available, the other spouse has no choice but to say yes to purchasing it. Now that the Glass House is on the market, Millie's not going to take no for an answer.
Harper and Kyle Conway are YouTube influencers, under the name "Kyperlife", and Harper wants Millie and Tom's house as much as Millie wants Stacey and Felix's. She also won't take no for an answer, as she just knows it's going to look great on their vlogs and boost their social profile.
On the surface everyone should be happy to be getting what they want, right? Well, throw some psychopathy into the mix and things get a little more complicated! All bets are off when one part of the buyer's chain starts to backtrack on the deal.
Normal people would probably move on, but "normal" isn't on the table with this group. What's the game being played and who is playing who? All I can say is that it's a wickedly fun and tangled story that Tess Stimson has written, and I never thought I'd enjoy spending so much time in the mind of a psychopath! Through the fictitious SETTalks (like TEDTalks), I actually learned a surprising amount on the subject.
I listened to this on audio and Penelope Rawlins was pitch perfect in her voicing of the characters. She brought this bunch and all their personalities to life deliciously! Her voicing of Millie and Harper was particularly good.
As with her prior book, Stolen, Stimson loves a good dramatic ending, and she certainly delivered with this one as well. I highly recommend a read or listen ... just never do business with anyone like them!
★★★★ ½
February 4, 2023
This will probably be one of my favorite books this year. An absolutely thrilling, fascinating ride that really got under my skin.
Synopsis: Millie and Tom have discovered the perfect home, the glass house. They will do anything to get it. Harper and Kyle feel overjoyed when Millie and Tom’s house is ready to be sold. When Millie meets the owner of the glass house she becomes obsessed with the owner, Stacey. Something isn’t quite right with the relationship between Stacey and Felix.
This was an addictive joy-ride that never got boring. The story alternates between different POV’s and I found all the characters intriguing and real. There are also chapters where one character (we don’t know who) describes his/her life as a psychopath, and it is utterly convincing. Even if the story feels like it never could happen in real life, you feel that if it actually happened, you would believe it was possible. The story keeps you at the edge of your seat, and the writing style really appealed to me. I am sure the author has used a lot of time to research psychopathy and heart surgery, which only makes me respect the book more. The new house would make a great movie, with its original plot and fast pace.
Thanks to netgally and avon publishing for this arc. Publishing date: august 04, 2022
Synopsis: Millie and Tom have discovered the perfect home, the glass house. They will do anything to get it. Harper and Kyle feel overjoyed when Millie and Tom’s house is ready to be sold. When Millie meets the owner of the glass house she becomes obsessed with the owner, Stacey. Something isn’t quite right with the relationship between Stacey and Felix.
This was an addictive joy-ride that never got boring. The story alternates between different POV’s and I found all the characters intriguing and real. There are also chapters where one character (we don’t know who) describes his/her life as a psychopath, and it is utterly convincing. Even if the story feels like it never could happen in real life, you feel that if it actually happened, you would believe it was possible. The story keeps you at the edge of your seat, and the writing style really appealed to me. I am sure the author has used a lot of time to research psychopathy and heart surgery, which only makes me respect the book more. The new house would make a great movie, with its original plot and fast pace.
Thanks to netgally and avon publishing for this arc. Publishing date: august 04, 2022
August 18, 2022
EXCERPT: The night of the charity gala, that night when everyone met for the first time, a tragic series of events was set in motion. Until then, you just had six ordinary people linked only by a simple desire to sell their houses.
But something changed for everyone that night. Our lives got tangled together. We became part of each other's stories - with disastrous consequences.
A small quirk of fate, and everything could have turned out differently. Sometimes all it takes is for the wrong person to cross your path at the wrong time.
I'm not to blame for what happened that autumn. It took a perfect storm of circumstances; every single person involved in the drama played their part.
What if the estate agent had got stuck in traffic on the day of the viewing and someone else had got their bid in first?
What if the mortgage broker hadn't listened to her voicemail?
I can see you all sitting there smugly telling yourselves you'd never have taken the law into your own hands, no matter what the provocation. You're not capable of killing someone in cold blood, right?
Self-defense maybe. Or to protect your family.
But never murder.
ABOUT 'THE NEW HOUSE': Three couples. Three houses. One home to die for…
Stacey and Felix are the glamorous owners of the stylish, modern Glass House, with its pool and floor-to-ceiling windows. Now they’re downsizing, but Stacey can’t sell to just anyone. She needs the right buyer, who will keep her secrets.
Millie and Tom have always imagined living in the Glass House. Now it’s for sale. With property prices booming, if they can sell quickly, it could be theirs. But are the house and its charming owners all they seem?
Harper and Kyle are moving up in the world. They need a new house, in the right school district, to give their children the start in life they never had. Millie and Tom’s is perfect. It’ll take every penny they have, and more, but it’ll be worth it. Won’t it?
When one of the sales falls through, how far will someone go to get everything they’ve always wanted?
MY THOUGHTS: 'These violent delights have violent ends, and in their triumph die, like fire and powder, which as they kiss consume.' - Shakespeare
OMG Tess Stimson! A meteor shower of stars! Five just doesn't cut it.
A big fat 'YES!' to all the hype and the publicity claims. I was gripped and consumed by this book. It's crazy, compelling, addictive, mindblowing, twisty and more.
The New House is a book best gone into cold. Stock up on your favourite drinks and snacks, lock the door, turn off your phone, pick up your copy of The New House by Tess Stimson and prepare for a wild rollercoaster ride. You won't regret it.
Tess Stimson's mind scares me.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheNewHouse #NetGalley #TessStimsonAuthor
I: @tessstimson @avonbooksuk
T: @tessjstimson @AvonBooksUK
#contemporaryfiction #crime #familydrama #mystery #suspense #thriller
THE AUTHOR: I was born in Surrey, in the south of England, and read English at Oxford University.
Upon graduating I joined ITN as a news producer.
I reported and produced regional and world stories, travelling to hotspots and war-zones all over the
globe, before leaving bullets behind to become
a full-time writer.
Since then, I’ve written more than a dozen novels, numerous short stories, and two non-fiction books, which have been published internationally and translated into more than twenty languages.
In recent years, I’ve moved away from writing women’s fiction and towards darker psychological thrillers,
which seem to suit my personality better - make
of that what you will.
As well as writing fiction I continue to work as
a journalist, and also teach reporting for media and creative writing at a university in the North-Eastern US.
I live in Vermont with my husband, and am visited intermittently by my three grown-up children whenever they need their laundry done.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Avon Books UK via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The New House by Tess Stimson for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
But something changed for everyone that night. Our lives got tangled together. We became part of each other's stories - with disastrous consequences.
A small quirk of fate, and everything could have turned out differently. Sometimes all it takes is for the wrong person to cross your path at the wrong time.
I'm not to blame for what happened that autumn. It took a perfect storm of circumstances; every single person involved in the drama played their part.
What if the estate agent had got stuck in traffic on the day of the viewing and someone else had got their bid in first?
What if the mortgage broker hadn't listened to her voicemail?
I can see you all sitting there smugly telling yourselves you'd never have taken the law into your own hands, no matter what the provocation. You're not capable of killing someone in cold blood, right?
Self-defense maybe. Or to protect your family.
But never murder.
ABOUT 'THE NEW HOUSE': Three couples. Three houses. One home to die for…
Stacey and Felix are the glamorous owners of the stylish, modern Glass House, with its pool and floor-to-ceiling windows. Now they’re downsizing, but Stacey can’t sell to just anyone. She needs the right buyer, who will keep her secrets.
Millie and Tom have always imagined living in the Glass House. Now it’s for sale. With property prices booming, if they can sell quickly, it could be theirs. But are the house and its charming owners all they seem?
Harper and Kyle are moving up in the world. They need a new house, in the right school district, to give their children the start in life they never had. Millie and Tom’s is perfect. It’ll take every penny they have, and more, but it’ll be worth it. Won’t it?
When one of the sales falls through, how far will someone go to get everything they’ve always wanted?
MY THOUGHTS: 'These violent delights have violent ends, and in their triumph die, like fire and powder, which as they kiss consume.' - Shakespeare
OMG Tess Stimson! A meteor shower of stars! Five just doesn't cut it.
A big fat 'YES!' to all the hype and the publicity claims. I was gripped and consumed by this book. It's crazy, compelling, addictive, mindblowing, twisty and more.
The New House is a book best gone into cold. Stock up on your favourite drinks and snacks, lock the door, turn off your phone, pick up your copy of The New House by Tess Stimson and prepare for a wild rollercoaster ride. You won't regret it.
Tess Stimson's mind scares me.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#TheNewHouse #NetGalley #TessStimsonAuthor
I: @tessstimson @avonbooksuk
T: @tessjstimson @AvonBooksUK
#contemporaryfiction #crime #familydrama #mystery #suspense #thriller
THE AUTHOR: I was born in Surrey, in the south of England, and read English at Oxford University.
Upon graduating I joined ITN as a news producer.
I reported and produced regional and world stories, travelling to hotspots and war-zones all over the
globe, before leaving bullets behind to become
a full-time writer.
Since then, I’ve written more than a dozen novels, numerous short stories, and two non-fiction books, which have been published internationally and translated into more than twenty languages.
In recent years, I’ve moved away from writing women’s fiction and towards darker psychological thrillers,
which seem to suit my personality better - make
of that what you will.
As well as writing fiction I continue to work as
a journalist, and also teach reporting for media and creative writing at a university in the North-Eastern US.
I live in Vermont with my husband, and am visited intermittently by my three grown-up children whenever they need their laundry done.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Avon Books UK via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The New House by Tess Stimson for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 13, 2022
Now this is a fun, twisted, dark one!
Who knew wanting to buy a house could become so sinister? In this book, sinister is the word as couple #1 plans to sell their house, couple #2 plans to buy it, and couple #3 plans to buy the house that couple #2 will be vacating. Unfortunately, things don’t go as planned and murder is on the menu.
The less you know, the better. This was such an enjoyable read, written phenomenally by Tess Stimson. If you’re into psychotic characters, fun surprises, dark and morbid humor, and a deliciously dark plot, this one's for you.
4.5 stars
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 8/4/22.
Who knew wanting to buy a house could become so sinister? In this book, sinister is the word as couple #1 plans to sell their house, couple #2 plans to buy it, and couple #3 plans to buy the house that couple #2 will be vacating. Unfortunately, things don’t go as planned and murder is on the menu.
The less you know, the better. This was such an enjoyable read, written phenomenally by Tess Stimson. If you’re into psychotic characters, fun surprises, dark and morbid humor, and a deliciously dark plot, this one's for you.
4.5 stars
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Expected Publication Date: 8/4/22.
October 30, 2022
3.5 rounded down. It pains me to do so, though.
One sentence summary: Undersold by its synopsis, this book goes above and beyond my expectations but unfortunately some math didn't mathulate
SYNOPSIS
Three couples are involved in a "property chain" but things spiral out of control when one of the sales fall through. Don't get it twisted though, this is more than just wanting to buy a house.
MY OPINION
It's not often I say a synopsis UNDERsells a book, but this is one of those times. I remember seeing this on NetGalley and thinking oh lawd, another cheesy popcorn thriller... next! But then I started seeing some rumblings about how this was juicy, and since I love an illuminated woman in the window cover, I had to give it a try. I was impressed, but ultimately disappointed.
The writing was quite good and Stimson elevates this story by including several "fun facts" about sharks, cats, folklore, etc, PLUS very detailed yet interesting heart surgery scenes. However, I wasn't a big fan of two navel gazing scenes in particular. The first one being her lil Ted Talk on how you can't be fat and fit. It legit had nothing to do with the plot?? Okay, thanks I guess??? And then we have the mEn GeT aBuSeD tOo... girl we know?? But if the only time you mention this is in response to women being abused, get outta here. Plus, she supported this (unnecessary) standpoint by citing stats from a men's rights activist campaign... PLS LOL. MRAs are notoriously misogynistic and exist only to shame and blame women. MRAs walked so incels could run. And if you really wanna go titty for titty, drop the stats for female victims of abuse side by side.
AnywayyyZZZZ... overall, this book reminded me of Look Closer whereby the author's intelligent writing took your regular degular domestic thriller to a new place. Like Look Closer, this book is chock full of manipulation, suspense, and reverse uno moments (or "gotcha" moments).
Millie, Tom, and Stacey's POVs are interspersed with transcripts from a podcast about inside the mind of a psychopath and Kyper Nation vlogs. Stimson did a fantastic job creating unique and distinct voices for all the characters; she nailed the "influencer" tone. However, I did find that Stimson went a lil OD with the character backstories. How many times can you tell us that Millie's father was an abusive drunk and she hates her mom for being "weak" and going back to him? We get it. And the "I'm a cardiothoracic surgeon: _____" lines were tiresome by the end because I honestly couldn't tell if this was intentionally repeated or she thought she was doing something new. Don't ask me to explain that LOL.
Anyways, IMO, this book is clearly about psychopaths. The house stuff is irrelevant tbh. It quickly becomes background noise to the plot. At a high-level, this is a take on the "nature vs. nurture" debate. We have Millie, who is almost too self-aware about her personality disorder and actively fights against her nature AND her nurture. And then you have the other psychos who lean heavily into their nature even despite the attempts to nurture them out of it.
And herein lies the reason of my 3 star. SPOILERS SO SCROLL AHEAD
The story quickly moves from trying to buy a home to Millie's growing fear that her lil psycho son is going to k!ll someone + her battle of the psychos with Stacey. Millie, ever self-aware, is not deluded that her son is off his rocker. She is dead set on getting Peter packed up and into a psych ward, but Tom has his head up his ass and won't allow it. BUT THEN, out of nowhere, Millie does a complete 180 and 127 Hours her hand off to save Peter and cover up his double homi. Now, this would've made sense if the sudden switch in Millie's feelings toward Peter had been explained... but nah. We go from Peter is Petite Bundy to covering up MURDER??? An argument could be made that a mother will always do what she gotta do, but she wasn't doing it in the first place, so why the change in heart? And because her relationship with Peter was directly related to the final twist, I couldn't just Ray Charles that situation. Without this change in behavior, the story would've been completely different.
I was really disappointed in this because it was a solid 4 stars. I don't often read citizens gone rogue thrillers, but I was pleasantly surprised by the "depth" of this one. But alas, such a big plot hole that lent its hand in a pivotal twist can't be ignored. La poo.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: premise goes above and beyond what the synopsis offers, good writing that elevates the story, learned some new fun facts, lots of manipulation and suspense
Cons: big ass plot hole :'(, repetitive, some unnecessary navel gazing
One sentence summary: Undersold by its synopsis, this book goes above and beyond my expectations but unfortunately some math didn't mathulate
SYNOPSIS
Three couples are involved in a "property chain" but things spiral out of control when one of the sales fall through. Don't get it twisted though, this is more than just wanting to buy a house.
MY OPINION
It's not often I say a synopsis UNDERsells a book, but this is one of those times. I remember seeing this on NetGalley and thinking oh lawd, another cheesy popcorn thriller... next! But then I started seeing some rumblings about how this was juicy, and since I love an illuminated woman in the window cover, I had to give it a try. I was impressed, but ultimately disappointed.
The writing was quite good and Stimson elevates this story by including several "fun facts" about sharks, cats, folklore, etc, PLUS very detailed yet interesting heart surgery scenes. However, I wasn't a big fan of two navel gazing scenes in particular. The first one being her lil Ted Talk on how you can't be fat and fit. It legit had nothing to do with the plot?? Okay, thanks I guess??? And then we have the mEn GeT aBuSeD tOo... girl we know?? But if the only time you mention this is in response to women being abused, get outta here. Plus, she supported this (unnecessary) standpoint by citing stats from a men's rights activist campaign... PLS LOL. MRAs are notoriously misogynistic and exist only to shame and blame women. MRAs walked so incels could run. And if you really wanna go titty for titty, drop the stats for female victims of abuse side by side.
AnywayyyZZZZ... overall, this book reminded me of Look Closer whereby the author's intelligent writing took your regular degular domestic thriller to a new place. Like Look Closer, this book is chock full of manipulation, suspense, and reverse uno moments (or "gotcha" moments).
Millie, Tom, and Stacey's POVs are interspersed with transcripts from a podcast about inside the mind of a psychopath and Kyper Nation vlogs. Stimson did a fantastic job creating unique and distinct voices for all the characters; she nailed the "influencer" tone. However, I did find that Stimson went a lil OD with the character backstories. How many times can you tell us that Millie's father was an abusive drunk and she hates her mom for being "weak" and going back to him? We get it. And the "I'm a cardiothoracic surgeon: _____" lines were tiresome by the end because I honestly couldn't tell if this was intentionally repeated or she thought she was doing something new. Don't ask me to explain that LOL.
Anyways, IMO, this book is clearly about psychopaths. The house stuff is irrelevant tbh. It quickly becomes background noise to the plot. At a high-level, this is a take on the "nature vs. nurture" debate. We have Millie, who is almost too self-aware about her personality disorder and actively fights against her nature AND her nurture. And then you have the other psychos who lean heavily into their nature even despite the attempts to nurture them out of it.
And herein lies the reason of my 3 star. SPOILERS SO SCROLL AHEAD
The story quickly moves from trying to buy a home to Millie's growing fear that her lil psycho son is going to k!ll someone + her battle of the psychos with Stacey. Millie, ever self-aware, is not deluded that her son is off his rocker. She is dead set on getting Peter packed up and into a psych ward, but Tom has his head up his ass and won't allow it. BUT THEN, out of nowhere, Millie does a complete 180 and 127 Hours her hand off to save Peter and cover up his double homi. Now, this would've made sense if the sudden switch in Millie's feelings toward Peter had been explained... but nah. We go from Peter is Petite Bundy to covering up MURDER??? An argument could be made that a mother will always do what she gotta do, but she wasn't doing it in the first place, so why the change in heart? And because her relationship with Peter was directly related to the final twist, I couldn't just Ray Charles that situation. Without this change in behavior, the story would've been completely different.
I was really disappointed in this because it was a solid 4 stars. I don't often read citizens gone rogue thrillers, but I was pleasantly surprised by the "depth" of this one. But alas, such a big plot hole that lent its hand in a pivotal twist can't be ignored. La poo.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: premise goes above and beyond what the synopsis offers, good writing that elevates the story, learned some new fun facts, lots of manipulation and suspense
Cons: big ass plot hole :'(, repetitive, some unnecessary navel gazing
June 26, 2022
Are you thinking of buying a new house? I hope you don’t end up in a chain with buyers like in this one…
Once this entangled group make offers on each other’s properties it sets off a chain of events with disastrous consequences. It’s a perfect storm of seemingly “perfect“ people but much like house fronts they’re a facade, they hide what’s behind and beneath and we can never know the truth of what goes on in a persons head or behind closed doors. Also consider, what would you do if someone really tests you? What lines would you cross? These house sales come with high prices attached.
Let’s introduce the players. At the bottom of the chain are “Kyperlife” YouTube Vloggers Kyle and Harper Conway who want to buy Millie and Tom Downton’s property and at the top of the chain and owners of the coveted Glass House are Stacey and Felix Porter.
This really is a go in blind read for the greatest and most deliciously devilish enjoyment. The less you know about the characters and their er, flaws, the more you will revel in it. This becomes seriously dark and messed up.
There are multiple jaw floor moments which will shock as you’ll be fooled more than once. Well, I will certainly admit to it!! In addition, there is much bear poking which is distinctly inadvisable given the default setting of some characters and it becomes incredibly dangerous. You read with baited breath, your jaw is already on the floor and your eyes are out on stalks. Its a look and not a pretty one.
As for the ending, I just recover from one thing, pick myself up, regroup and then bam, Tess Stimson wallops you with something else! Its a brace yourself, buckle up read.
Of course it has twists and suspense, it’s got more tension than piano wire, the humour is jet black and what it amounts to is an addictive read with never a dull moment which I quite simply could not put down. So if you like fast paced plots that are very convincing, hop on the rollercoaster as this is a winner!
PS. The author has clearly done a lot of research for this which makes it feel very authentic.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books U.K. for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Once this entangled group make offers on each other’s properties it sets off a chain of events with disastrous consequences. It’s a perfect storm of seemingly “perfect“ people but much like house fronts they’re a facade, they hide what’s behind and beneath and we can never know the truth of what goes on in a persons head or behind closed doors. Also consider, what would you do if someone really tests you? What lines would you cross? These house sales come with high prices attached.
Let’s introduce the players. At the bottom of the chain are “Kyperlife” YouTube Vloggers Kyle and Harper Conway who want to buy Millie and Tom Downton’s property and at the top of the chain and owners of the coveted Glass House are Stacey and Felix Porter.
This really is a go in blind read for the greatest and most deliciously devilish enjoyment. The less you know about the characters and their er, flaws, the more you will revel in it. This becomes seriously dark and messed up.
There are multiple jaw floor moments which will shock as you’ll be fooled more than once. Well, I will certainly admit to it!! In addition, there is much bear poking which is distinctly inadvisable given the default setting of some characters and it becomes incredibly dangerous. You read with baited breath, your jaw is already on the floor and your eyes are out on stalks. Its a look and not a pretty one.
As for the ending, I just recover from one thing, pick myself up, regroup and then bam, Tess Stimson wallops you with something else! Its a brace yourself, buckle up read.
Of course it has twists and suspense, it’s got more tension than piano wire, the humour is jet black and what it amounts to is an addictive read with never a dull moment which I quite simply could not put down. So if you like fast paced plots that are very convincing, hop on the rollercoaster as this is a winner!
PS. The author has clearly done a lot of research for this which makes it feel very authentic.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books U.K. for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
July 12, 2022
Who knew house hunting could be so deadly? HGTV ain't got nothing on Tess Stimson's latest novel unless they re-vamp Love it or List it to Love it and Kill for it for which I would certainly tune in. 😉
We have three couples all vying to buy the perfect home. Their perfect home.
When you finally find the house of your dreams that you can't possibly live without will you kill for it?
That's the question Tess Stimson latest novel asks and the answer is deliciously diabolical.
We have a cast of unsavory characters that were all interesting and intriguing in their own way. The dark humor certainly aided in making this a proper page-turner. Shocks and surprises reveal themselves at just the right moment to keep us wondering just how low will these people go. The ending was the cherry on the sundae for this reader because it was so perfectly twisted. I'm thrilled to say that my first Stimson novel was a success! 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for my complimentary copy.
We have three couples all vying to buy the perfect home. Their perfect home.
When you finally find the house of your dreams that you can't possibly live without will you kill for it?
That's the question Tess Stimson latest novel asks and the answer is deliciously diabolical.
We have a cast of unsavory characters that were all interesting and intriguing in their own way. The dark humor certainly aided in making this a proper page-turner. Shocks and surprises reveal themselves at just the right moment to keep us wondering just how low will these people go. The ending was the cherry on the sundae for this reader because it was so perfectly twisted. I'm thrilled to say that my first Stimson novel was a success! 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for my complimentary copy.
August 3, 2022
This is a bombshell of a book. Three couples are connected through a house-buying chain. Millie & Tom want to buy the Glass House owned by Stacey & Felix. Harper & Kyle want to buy Millie & Tom's house. The retail dance that ensues REALLY escalates. Quickly! The narrative includes the perspective of Millie, Tom, and Stacey in alternating chapters. Inserted in between are a podcast transcript called "Inside the mind of a psychopath" and a vlog hosted by Harper (and Kyle, sort of).
The twists keep coming as a battle of the minds and muscles ensued. You will be surprised to find out who emerges as top dog. I was impressed with the creativity and unusual plot elements in Stolen and this book is a worthy successor. I do think I will be working my way back through some of this author's earlier works. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Samantha Downing, and Alice Feeney.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
The twists keep coming as a battle of the minds and muscles ensued. You will be surprised to find out who emerges as top dog. I was impressed with the creativity and unusual plot elements in Stolen and this book is a worthy successor. I do think I will be working my way back through some of this author's earlier works. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Samantha Downing, and Alice Feeney.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2022
Three couples connect through real estate.
The first couple is Stacey and Felix. They have a son. Stacey works as a news anchor while Felix is in business.
The second couple is Millie and her husband Tom. They have two children, Peter and Medussa. Millie is a cardiothoracic surgeon who is magnificent at her job. She wants to buy the Glass House which is owned by Stacey and Felix.
And the third couple is Harper and Kyle. Harper is a vlogger who is becoming quite famous. She wants to buy the house Millie and Tom will be selling.
Then, the plans all go south.
This book is about a psychopath. You just have to figure out which of the characters is the one.
The New House was quite entertaining. Millie and Tom were my favorites. I like their relationship and all their secrets. The twists were good and even though the ending was a little nutso, I was in for the crazy!
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
The first couple is Stacey and Felix. They have a son. Stacey works as a news anchor while Felix is in business.
The second couple is Millie and her husband Tom. They have two children, Peter and Medussa. Millie is a cardiothoracic surgeon who is magnificent at her job. She wants to buy the Glass House which is owned by Stacey and Felix.
And the third couple is Harper and Kyle. Harper is a vlogger who is becoming quite famous. She wants to buy the house Millie and Tom will be selling.
Then, the plans all go south.
This book is about a psychopath. You just have to figure out which of the characters is the one.
The New House was quite entertaining. Millie and Tom were my favorites. I like their relationship and all their secrets. The twists were good and even though the ending was a little nutso, I was in for the crazy!
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
January 2, 2023
Cracks in the sidewalk......Fissures in the foundation......An unsettling shifting in the surrounding ground. All those involved have brain waves flowing in unnatural directions. Definitely retract your bid.
But Millie Downton is determined to take ownership of The Glass House once she spots the For Sale sign staked in the ground. She salivates each time she gazes up on the massive structure.....almost as if it were tall, dark, and handsome. Same response.
Her husband, Tom, is not as enthused. But Tom will do anything for Millie. Anything.
The owners of The Glass House, Stacey and Felix Porter, finally cave into Millie's obsession with the home and accept her bid. Millie has cut a deal with Harper and Kyle Conway, husband and wife bloggers, who desperately want Millie's house. Sounds like we have all the little ducks in a row here. Not quite. And these are not ducks......more like deep, dark vultures. Just you wait and see.
Tess Stimson has twisted The New House into a far more complex and detailed read than you thought you were being served initially. Stimson goes deep under that foundation and shakes it to its core. She lights the flame of psychological warfare that will singe the ground in its aftermath. Prepare for that. If you're weak in the knees, move to a cottage on the other side of town. We're decorating in dark tones and heavy, heavy furniture here.
Stimson's writing is off the charts. She sifts through the gravel in the driveway until each pebble is accounted for. Finite details with chafed knees from crawling inside the minds of these individuals. There are plenty of crooked pipes lodged behind those walls. Booooyaaa!!!
But Millie Downton is determined to take ownership of The Glass House once she spots the For Sale sign staked in the ground. She salivates each time she gazes up on the massive structure.....almost as if it were tall, dark, and handsome. Same response.
Her husband, Tom, is not as enthused. But Tom will do anything for Millie. Anything.
The owners of The Glass House, Stacey and Felix Porter, finally cave into Millie's obsession with the home and accept her bid. Millie has cut a deal with Harper and Kyle Conway, husband and wife bloggers, who desperately want Millie's house. Sounds like we have all the little ducks in a row here. Not quite. And these are not ducks......more like deep, dark vultures. Just you wait and see.
Tess Stimson has twisted The New House into a far more complex and detailed read than you thought you were being served initially. Stimson goes deep under that foundation and shakes it to its core. She lights the flame of psychological warfare that will singe the ground in its aftermath. Prepare for that. If you're weak in the knees, move to a cottage on the other side of town. We're decorating in dark tones and heavy, heavy furniture here.
Stimson's writing is off the charts. She sifts through the gravel in the driveway until each pebble is accounted for. Finite details with chafed knees from crawling inside the minds of these individuals. There are plenty of crooked pipes lodged behind those walls. Booooyaaa!!!
August 25, 2022
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4.5 Stars
Maybe moving to a new house will give us all a new start. I know I’m pinning too much on the idea, but what else do I have?
I have enjoyed two other books by this author. Both One in Three and Stolen were five star reads for me and The New House does not disappoint. This was such a fun read, it is very fast-paced and never lets up. This is how you write a psychological thriller.
The story is told from three points of view, Stacey, Tom, and Millie but we also have excerpts from a podcast entitled SET Talks, Psychologies Stories. The more you read of the book the crazier it gets, but in a fun, popcorn thriller kind of way and I loved it. I didn't know who the secret psycho was until almost the very end. There are a few twists you won't see coming and all three women are delectably evil.
The story is very suspensefully written and the tension had me on the edge of my seat. This story of three homebuyers is utterly unique and I read it in two sittings because I had to know what happens next. Strap in for a wild and crazy ride. You won't be disappointed.
I borrowed this from my local library, thanks so much Toronto Public Library!
4.5 Stars
Maybe moving to a new house will give us all a new start. I know I’m pinning too much on the idea, but what else do I have?
I have enjoyed two other books by this author. Both One in Three and Stolen were five star reads for me and The New House does not disappoint. This was such a fun read, it is very fast-paced and never lets up. This is how you write a psychological thriller.
The story is told from three points of view, Stacey, Tom, and Millie but we also have excerpts from a podcast entitled SET Talks, Psychologies Stories. The more you read of the book the crazier it gets, but in a fun, popcorn thriller kind of way and I loved it. I didn't know who the secret psycho was until almost the very end. There are a few twists you won't see coming and all three women are delectably evil.
The story is very suspensefully written and the tension had me on the edge of my seat. This story of three homebuyers is utterly unique and I read it in two sittings because I had to know what happens next. Strap in for a wild and crazy ride. You won't be disappointed.
I borrowed this from my local library, thanks so much Toronto Public Library!
July 15, 2022
Three couples, two houses.
This was my first book by this author but it certainly won’t be the last. This book is the very definition of unputdownable. I was gripped from the first page until the very end. The players in this deadly game are Millie (a cardio thoracic surgeon) and her husband Tom (a web security specialist), Stacey (a morning show television host) and her husband Felix (CEO of an investment finance company and Harper (a lifestyle vlogger) and her husband Kyle (a fitness coach). The last two call themselves Kyper Nation (a portmanteau of their names).
It all starts when Millie sees that a house she has had her eye on comes up for sale. She refers to it as the Glass House. Tom, who knows all of Millie’s secrets, goes along with if it makes Millie happy. Stacey and Felix currently own the glass house. Harper and Kyle want to buy Millie and Tom’s house. Confused yet? Don’t be, it’s all very clear in the book.
Also very clear is that things are not as they seem. The public facades of these couples hide a multitude of secrets and secret agendas. Can you work it out? I certainly couldn’t. The story gets darker and darker as games get played and people are moved around like they are on a chessboard. Whatever you are thinking is likely to be wrong, the truth is worse than you could imagine!
The characterisations were superb. Every person had a distinct voice and they were so well portrayed. The pace was one that accelerated throughout the story along with a real sense of dread. Who was playing who? Something terrible was going to happen. The ending was totally shocking, a real jaw dropper and the book was on track for 5 stars. Unfortunately the very, very ending spoiled it a little for me but it still warrants a strong 4 stars. Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
This was my first book by this author but it certainly won’t be the last. This book is the very definition of unputdownable. I was gripped from the first page until the very end. The players in this deadly game are Millie (a cardio thoracic surgeon) and her husband Tom (a web security specialist), Stacey (a morning show television host) and her husband Felix (CEO of an investment finance company and Harper (a lifestyle vlogger) and her husband Kyle (a fitness coach). The last two call themselves Kyper Nation (a portmanteau of their names).
It all starts when Millie sees that a house she has had her eye on comes up for sale. She refers to it as the Glass House. Tom, who knows all of Millie’s secrets, goes along with if it makes Millie happy. Stacey and Felix currently own the glass house. Harper and Kyle want to buy Millie and Tom’s house. Confused yet? Don’t be, it’s all very clear in the book.
Also very clear is that things are not as they seem. The public facades of these couples hide a multitude of secrets and secret agendas. Can you work it out? I certainly couldn’t. The story gets darker and darker as games get played and people are moved around like they are on a chessboard. Whatever you are thinking is likely to be wrong, the truth is worse than you could imagine!
The characterisations were superb. Every person had a distinct voice and they were so well portrayed. The pace was one that accelerated throughout the story along with a real sense of dread. Who was playing who? Something terrible was going to happen. The ending was totally shocking, a real jaw dropper and the book was on track for 5 stars. Unfortunately the very, very ending spoiled it a little for me but it still warrants a strong 4 stars. Many thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
August 26, 2022
Psycho Mom and psycho Son family; domestic abuse family; posh blogger family. All have their own stories full of twists which is very entertaining; the writing is crisp and grips you; I really liked how Tess displayed the characters, you really get to know them; with an ending that leaves you a bit gobsmacked.
Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC.
Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC.
August 8, 2022
TRUE CONFESSION: I was absolutely, positively elated when Tess Stimson's new book landed on my phone.
I am a huge Tess Stimson fan and had been enthusiastically anticipating a 5-star read.
Unfortunately, one of my favorite go-to authors disappointed me. 😭😭😭
My eyes were rolling so much during the entire book, they actually started to hurt. 😵🙄😵
To author Tess Stimson's credit, her plot was "different" and bore no resemblance to many of the cookie-cutter thrillers that I have recently read and I commend the author for her originality.
The book's plot and protagonists were off-the-wall, bizarre, and unrealistic, making it very difficult to embrace the storyline.
I listened to the audiobook and when the narrator read the role of the vlogger, she shrilled and this was extremely annoying.
The author's twist at the end of the book was clever and gasp-worthy and that is what convinced me to round up my rating to 2 stars.
Sooooo disappointed!
I am a huge Tess Stimson fan and had been enthusiastically anticipating a 5-star read.
Unfortunately, one of my favorite go-to authors disappointed me. 😭😭😭
My eyes were rolling so much during the entire book, they actually started to hurt. 😵🙄😵
To author Tess Stimson's credit, her plot was "different" and bore no resemblance to many of the cookie-cutter thrillers that I have recently read and I commend the author for her originality.
The book's plot and protagonists were off-the-wall, bizarre, and unrealistic, making it very difficult to embrace the storyline.
I listened to the audiobook and when the narrator read the role of the vlogger, she shrilled and this was extremely annoying.
The author's twist at the end of the book was clever and gasp-worthy and that is what convinced me to round up my rating to 2 stars.
Sooooo disappointed!
July 29, 2022
Very few books cause me to think ‘Am I really reading this?’ ( in a good way 😁 ) this book did, I could try and explain why and could ramble on for hours, none of us want that but to say this book is
P
O
W
E
R
F
U
L
And as dark as night, it’s horrific yet brilliant, well written does not do it justice and if you think, like me, it’s a tale of 3 couples buying their dream homes then it is but it also couldn’t be further from the truth
More psychopaths and sociopaths than ever met in a book and they are scary and fascinating,as are the little bits of info given on real life psychopaths welded into the story
The whole book is not a book but a real experience
Superb
10/10
5 Stars
P
O
W
E
R
F
U
L
And as dark as night, it’s horrific yet brilliant, well written does not do it justice and if you think, like me, it’s a tale of 3 couples buying their dream homes then it is but it also couldn’t be further from the truth
More psychopaths and sociopaths than ever met in a book and they are scary and fascinating,as are the little bits of info given on real life psychopaths welded into the story
The whole book is not a book but a real experience
Superb
10/10
5 Stars
May 1, 2023
The New House is a slow burning psychological thriller that poses one question; what makes a psychopath?
Once the twists start near the end, and everything starts to tie together and make more sense, you will not be able to put it down! It is worth sticking with for the ending. The characters are well developed throughout, but it’s best to let yourself get lost in the plot and try not to guess the ending too much.
Three women are connected through a sale of a properly aptly named the Glass House. Millie wants to buy the Glass House from famous television presenter Stacey Porter, and a vlogger called Harper wants to buy Millie’s property to move in with her husband Kyle and their two sons.
Millie is certain that her upbringing wired her wrong, that she shows traits of psychopathy. She could easily kill, she killed her own Father in the past to save her Mother from his tyranny of abuse. But as an adult, she has been able to keep herself under control and is now a world class surgeon. She now saves lives, not takes them.
Millie and Stacey fast become close friends and Millie notices that Stacey has bruises on her arms. Stacey confides that her husband Felix is an abuser. Felix however speaks to Millie’s husband Tom and warns him that it would be in Millie’s best interest to stay away from Stacey. But she’s too invested now in keeping Stacey safe.
Also, Millie and Tom are getting increasingly worried about their ten year old son’s behaviour. He’s hurting small animals, injuring his sister and Stacey’s son Archie almost drowns at a pool whilst Peter is also there… Millie is worrying that the darkest parts of her mind have been passed onto her young son. Even though Millie and Tom have tried to bring him up as normally as possible.
As the women’s lives become more intertwined - will we find out who is actually the psychopath? What happens behind the closed doors of these houses?
”These violent delights have violent ends, and in their triumph die, like fire and powder, which as they kiss consume.” This one Shakespeare quote used within The New House perfectly sums up the story!
tw:// graphic domestic violence
Once the twists start near the end, and everything starts to tie together and make more sense, you will not be able to put it down! It is worth sticking with for the ending. The characters are well developed throughout, but it’s best to let yourself get lost in the plot and try not to guess the ending too much.
Three women are connected through a sale of a properly aptly named the Glass House. Millie wants to buy the Glass House from famous television presenter Stacey Porter, and a vlogger called Harper wants to buy Millie’s property to move in with her husband Kyle and their two sons.
Millie is certain that her upbringing wired her wrong, that she shows traits of psychopathy. She could easily kill, she killed her own Father in the past to save her Mother from his tyranny of abuse. But as an adult, she has been able to keep herself under control and is now a world class surgeon. She now saves lives, not takes them.
Millie and Stacey fast become close friends and Millie notices that Stacey has bruises on her arms. Stacey confides that her husband Felix is an abuser. Felix however speaks to Millie’s husband Tom and warns him that it would be in Millie’s best interest to stay away from Stacey. But she’s too invested now in keeping Stacey safe.
Also, Millie and Tom are getting increasingly worried about their ten year old son’s behaviour. He’s hurting small animals, injuring his sister and Stacey’s son Archie almost drowns at a pool whilst Peter is also there… Millie is worrying that the darkest parts of her mind have been passed onto her young son. Even though Millie and Tom have tried to bring him up as normally as possible.
As the women’s lives become more intertwined - will we find out who is actually the psychopath? What happens behind the closed doors of these houses?
”These violent delights have violent ends, and in their triumph die, like fire and powder, which as they kiss consume.” This one Shakespeare quote used within The New House perfectly sums up the story!
tw:// graphic domestic violence
June 21, 2022
Great read! This was a dark and twisty psychological thriller based on 3 couples who are each buying a house, with each sale relying on the others. Millie is the primary narrator but you also get some chapters from other characters. At least one of the characters is a psychopath and you get glimpses into the psychopathic mind along with the actual mystery within the storyline. There is way more going on here than the synopsis lets on but it’s fun to uncover the surprises.
Whole not necessarily likable, I felt that most of the characters were at least relatable in many ways, and the dynamics between each of the 3 couples felt real. I couldn’t figure out what was really going on with Felix and Stacey- there were a lot of twists within that storyline. There are many ethical decisions that needed to be made and while I didn’t agree with some of those decisions in theory, I could see why they were made.
Overall, this is a wild ride that you’ll likely have trouble putting down. Another winner from this author that I would recommend for those who like psychological thrillers. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Whole not necessarily likable, I felt that most of the characters were at least relatable in many ways, and the dynamics between each of the 3 couples felt real. I couldn’t figure out what was really going on with Felix and Stacey- there were a lot of twists within that storyline. There are many ethical decisions that needed to be made and while I didn’t agree with some of those decisions in theory, I could see why they were made.
Overall, this is a wild ride that you’ll likely have trouble putting down. Another winner from this author that I would recommend for those who like psychological thrillers. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2023
at first it felt difficult to spot
a criminal mastermind among
such weird characters... then
it turned into the WILDEST
psycho thriller ever! ♡
a criminal mastermind among
such weird characters... then
it turned into the WILDEST
psycho thriller ever! ♡
August 8, 2023
Много як трилър, който увлича и държи в напрежение до последната страница. Три двойки се впускат в амбициозна надпревара, която се превръща в смъртоносно влакче на ужасите. Едно пътуване из тъмната страна на човешкия ум, което ни дава възможност да надникнем в света на психопатите и обърканите кодове на моралните ценности. Разбира се, както често се случва в трилърите, имаме струпване на множество обстоятелства и взаимоотношения на едно място, които не винаги изглеждат правдоподобни. Може да има и забележки към изграждането на героите, които притежават ярки характеристики, но не и обем, а някои остават съвсем бегло обрисувани. Като цяло романът много ми допадна, не на последно място и с това, че леко излиза извън зоната ми на читателски комфорт и ме предизвика по един интригуващ начин.
July 26, 2022
This book was frustrating and confusing but also clever and twisty. At times I found it boring and other times I just couldn’t read fast enough. A clever concept and made me think. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
June 6, 2022
I stayed gripped to The New House from the very first page. Can you say psychopath x 500? There are 6 couples to keep track of and boy oh boy! Mille who is a gifted cardiothoracic surgeon and I would say is the mastermind of all psychopaths! She’s a piece of work and I found myself shaking my head several times throughout. She has her eyes set on a house that’s gone up for sale that she calls The Glass House and she just has to have it. Then something happens where she may not get the house. It just goes on and on and gets even more disturbing! Why couldn’t I put this book down? Where oh where does this author come up with this stuff? Oh yeah, from real honest to goodness psychopaths! She thanks them at the end. Thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
Trigger warnings throughout - physical violence explained in DETAIL and that may be hard for some to read. Also, some child violence also very heavy, especially at the end.
Trigger warnings throughout - physical violence explained in DETAIL and that may be hard for some to read. Also, some child violence also very heavy, especially at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2022
WOW. That escalated quickly. I mean, that really got out of hand fast. The New house is a chilling new thriller by Tess Stimson that will rock you to your core!
Millie is a world class heart surgeon, married for 19 years to Tom. They have two children, Medusa and Peter. The jokes write themselves here, folks, because Millie fancies herself a psychopath of sorts and I assume only a psychopath would name their child Medusa. They call her Meddie though, so don't worry!
Stacey is a beloved news anchor married to Felix, who seems to be a pretty bad dude. Stacey owns the Glass House, a landmark home of the area, and also Millie's dream home. She will do anything to get it so when Stacey puts it on the market, Millie comes in hot immediately and they hit it off and strike up a friendship, which is new for Millie. Millie becomes very protective of Stacey. sparring with Felix over his alleged misdeeds. Felix sings a different tune.
The final couple here are Harper and Kyle aka Kyperlife. They're goofy influencers who get involved in this because they want to buy Millie and Tom's house, which is great because they need to sell it fast to get funds toward Glass House. They're a bit young and naive but Harper hits it off with Tom and they become quite involved in the foolery afoot because they'd pitched this move to sponsors for content so when the sales start to fall through, everyone has something to lose.
We know from the start that an infamous murder occurs and that not everyone in this property chain is going to make it out alive. We are thrown from past to present, with a SET Talk in between, which is like a TED Talk on psychopathy. We initially assume it's Millie, but as the book goes on, I start thinking it could be anyone involved! When it comes to this piece of real estate, they're as ruthless as it comes.
This dropped bombshells continuously. Every time I thought I had it figured out, we got another curveball! It scratches on some interesting social truths. It kept me on my toes until the very last page, set against the mental images of beautiful architecture and some strange but possibly true medical lingo. If 1 in 100 normal people in any room are psychopaths, where does that put you?!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy to read and review!
Millie is a world class heart surgeon, married for 19 years to Tom. They have two children, Medusa and Peter. The jokes write themselves here, folks, because Millie fancies herself a psychopath of sorts and I assume only a psychopath would name their child Medusa. They call her Meddie though, so don't worry!
Stacey is a beloved news anchor married to Felix, who seems to be a pretty bad dude. Stacey owns the Glass House, a landmark home of the area, and also Millie's dream home. She will do anything to get it so when Stacey puts it on the market, Millie comes in hot immediately and they hit it off and strike up a friendship, which is new for Millie. Millie becomes very protective of Stacey. sparring with Felix over his alleged misdeeds. Felix sings a different tune.
The final couple here are Harper and Kyle aka Kyperlife. They're goofy influencers who get involved in this because they want to buy Millie and Tom's house, which is great because they need to sell it fast to get funds toward Glass House. They're a bit young and naive but Harper hits it off with Tom and they become quite involved in the foolery afoot because they'd pitched this move to sponsors for content so when the sales start to fall through, everyone has something to lose.
We know from the start that an infamous murder occurs and that not everyone in this property chain is going to make it out alive. We are thrown from past to present, with a SET Talk in between, which is like a TED Talk on psychopathy. We initially assume it's Millie, but as the book goes on, I start thinking it could be anyone involved! When it comes to this piece of real estate, they're as ruthless as it comes.
This dropped bombshells continuously. Every time I thought I had it figured out, we got another curveball! It scratches on some interesting social truths. It kept me on my toes until the very last page, set against the mental images of beautiful architecture and some strange but possibly true medical lingo. If 1 in 100 normal people in any room are psychopaths, where does that put you?!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy to read and review!
September 7, 2022
4.5 stars, rounding up.
Last year I loved Tess Stimson's Stolen so much that I jumped on her newest novel The New House. Back-to-back 5-star reads makes her a go-to author moving forward for me!
The plot is complex and twisty, making this is a tough one to explain. Basically, you have 3 different couples who are connected via the sell of their homes as each one is trying to get into the other (aka Couple 1 is selling to Couple 2 and Couple 2 is selling to Couple 3). Things start going bat sh*t crazy right away.
The characters were all deviously entertaining in their own way. I thought the 3 wives were really well written, each with their own unique voice. I enjoyed the formatting - between chapters we were given transcripts of a SET Talk (think TED Talk) with one of the characters that isn't revealed until the end and one of the wives vlogs. Stimson delivered surprises at every turn all the way until the final chapter.
I couldn't put this one down! Cheers!
Last year I loved Tess Stimson's Stolen so much that I jumped on her newest novel The New House. Back-to-back 5-star reads makes her a go-to author moving forward for me!
The plot is complex and twisty, making this is a tough one to explain. Basically, you have 3 different couples who are connected via the sell of their homes as each one is trying to get into the other (aka Couple 1 is selling to Couple 2 and Couple 2 is selling to Couple 3). Things start going bat sh*t crazy right away.
The characters were all deviously entertaining in their own way. I thought the 3 wives were really well written, each with their own unique voice. I enjoyed the formatting - between chapters we were given transcripts of a SET Talk (think TED Talk) with one of the characters that isn't revealed until the end and one of the wives vlogs. Stimson delivered surprises at every turn all the way until the final chapter.
I couldn't put this one down! Cheers!
November 12, 2023
Две къщи в Лондон, три семейни двойки от богатата средна класа и неизвестен брой психопати. С доста черен хумор и малко размишления дали, ако знаем кой ще стане убиец, е по-добре да го спрем на всяка цена, и доколко далеч може и трябва да се простират презумпцията за невинност и майчината любов. Дори с риск да звуча еретично, не съм съгласна с епилога - не съм съгласна, че в случаи като този трябва да се упражнява безграничност, защото умират други, които не трябва.
Е, Тес Стимсън се е справила чудесно с лудницата в сюжета, и ако е вярно, че психопатите са един на всеки сто, тук тя е подбрала по-сгъстена извадка, ка��о иронизира доста голяма част от фетишите на модерното ежедневие - те са слаба преграда пред мрака в човешката природа.
Краят беше малко накъсан с опита да се навържат твърде много нишки и да се заплетат нови, а мотивацията за някои действия се пооплете. Лично аз не разбрах и не одобрявам решението на Мили да прикрие нещо такова, разкрито в епилога - това противоречи на здравия разум и на фундаменталния морал.
Не звучи точно като трилър и не е точно трилър, но категорията горе-долу пасва, което е знак за по-добре свършена работа от очакваното.
И да, има доста допирни точки с друг хубав трилър с тежки теми - "Трябва да поговорим за Кевин"
———
▶️ Цитати:
🏠 “честността може да е прах в очите точно колкото и измамата.”
🏠 “Разликата между изпълнителен директор и сериен убиец понякога виси на косъм, и това е семейството”
🏠 “За еволюцията няма значение какъв алтруист си и колко добро си направил. А само дали си победител.”
🏠 “Хората обичат красотата. В изкуството, природата, архитектурата. В другите.”
Е, Тес Стимсън се е справила чудесно с лудницата в сюжета, и ако е вярно, че психопатите са един на всеки сто, тук тя е подбрала по-сгъстена извадка, ка��о иронизира доста голяма част от фетишите на модерното ежедневие - те са слаба преграда пред мрака в човешката природа.
Краят беше малко накъсан с опита да се навържат твърде много нишки и да се заплетат нови, а мотивацията за някои действия се пооплете. Лично аз не разбрах и не одобрявам решението на Мили да прикрие нещо такова, разкрито в епилога - това противоречи на здравия разум и на фундаменталния морал.
Не звучи точно като трилър и не е точно трилър, но категорията горе-долу пасва, което е знак за по-добре свършена работа от очакваното.
И да, има доста допирни точки с друг хубав трилър с тежки теми - "Трябва да поговорим за Кевин"
———
▶️ Цитати:
🏠 “честността може да е прах в очите точно колкото и измамата.”
🏠 “Разликата между изпълнителен директор и сериен убиец понякога виси на косъм, и това е семейството”
🏠 “За еволюцията няма значение какъв алтруист си и колко добро си направил. А само дали си победител.”
🏠 “Хората обичат красотата. В изкуството, природата, архитектурата. В другите.”
June 8, 2022
When I started reading this one, I absolutely thought I was in for your generic domestic thriller. And…nope! Nothing generic about this one.
Our characters are soooooo wrong. Every single one of them. Oh, I loved reading them and I would stay so far away from each of them in real life. Every one of them has secrets and each secret just gets worse and worse and more and more shocking.
The book is highly suspenseful and, once you figure out what people are up to, utterly unique.
I loved this. I can totally see myself revisiting this one in the future just to see what clues I missed.
Five stars!
*ARC via Net Galley
Our characters are soooooo wrong. Every single one of them. Oh, I loved reading them and I would stay so far away from each of them in real life. Every one of them has secrets and each secret just gets worse and worse and more and more shocking.
The book is highly suspenseful and, once you figure out what people are up to, utterly unique.
I loved this. I can totally see myself revisiting this one in the future just to see what clues I missed.
Five stars!
*ARC via Net Galley
October 28, 2022
4.25 stars Page turner. Almost impossible to put down. Devoured it in 2 days. First Tess Stimson book. I liked it very much with the exception of the Harper story line which I found annoying. Endings always seem tough for most authors but this one wasn't too bad. Looking forward to another one of her books.
February 16, 2023
At the start of this book, a character mentions a statistic that roughly 10 in a thousand people are psychopaths. So what are the odds that a few of them will meet, become friends, and at the same time have one goal: to buy a house? Well, this was one exciting read on Valentine's day. Dark, suspenseful, and mysterious, with a crazy twist at the end. It manages to hold my interest. The tension, the drama, the characters, the murder—all executed in pages that simply fly by at a breakneck speed. Enjoyed!
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