What do you think?
Rate this book
The Party on Laurel Street
Only she knows what really happened that night…
It was meant to be a time of celebration, of neighbours chatting over sparkling glasses of wine, enjoying the decadent surroundings of the huge mansion house which overlooked all the houses on Laurel Street. But then my troubled friend Gabbie has a heated argument with her husband. She leaves the party and disappears without a trace.
Gabbie’s neighbours rally round, painfully aware that Laurel Street has already had its share of tragedy. Years ago, when we were children, my best friend Erin vanished, never to be seen again, after having a secret party in the woods with me and Gabbie as our families celebrated the new year.
I want Gabbie to be found safe. I need her to come home. Because if she doesn’t, I know that all eyes will be on me as they were years ago.
But then I discover that my husband Luke was the last person to see Gabbie alive and I’m reminded of all the times I saw them getting close. As much as I pushed it to the back of my mind, I have to ask, can I really trust them? And worse, is someone about to make me pay for the secret I’ve been keeping for so long?
It was meant to be a time of celebration, of neighbours chatting over sparkling glasses of wine, enjoying the decadent surroundings of the huge mansion house which overlooked all the houses on Laurel Street. But then my troubled friend Gabbie has a heated argument with her husband. She leaves the party and disappears without a trace.
Gabbie’s neighbours rally round, painfully aware that Laurel Street has already had its share of tragedy. Years ago, when we were children, my best friend Erin vanished, never to be seen again, after having a secret party in the woods with me and Gabbie as our families celebrated the new year.
I want Gabbie to be found safe. I need her to come home. Because if she doesn’t, I know that all eyes will be on me as they were years ago.
But then I discover that my husband Luke was the last person to see Gabbie alive and I’m reminded of all the times I saw them getting close. As much as I pushed it to the back of my mind, I have to ask, can I really trust them? And worse, is someone about to make me pay for the secret I’ve been keeping for so long?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2023
347 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Heald
19 books276 followersRuth Heald is a bestselling author of psychological thrillers. Her books include The Nanny, The New Girl, The Wedding, I Know Your Secret, The Mother's Mistake and The Woman Upstairs.
Ruth studied Economics at Oxford University and then worked in an eclectic mix of sectors from nuclear decommissioning to management consulting. She worked at the BBC for nine years before leaving to write full time. Ruth is fascinated by psychology and finding out what drives people to violence, destruction and revenge. She’s married with two children and her novels explore our greatest fears in otherwise ordinary, domestic lives.
You can connect with Ruth on Twitter @RJ_Heald, or Facebook /RJHealdauthor
Ruth studied Economics at Oxford University and then worked in an eclectic mix of sectors from nuclear decommissioning to management consulting. She worked at the BBC for nine years before leaving to write full time. Ruth is fascinated by psychology and finding out what drives people to violence, destruction and revenge. She’s married with two children and her novels explore our greatest fears in otherwise ordinary, domestic lives.
You can connect with Ruth on Twitter @RJ_Heald, or Facebook /RJHealdauthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
June 12, 2023
I found The Party on Laurel Street to be lacking on the "thriller" and "suspense" side for about 70% of the book.
The author did a great job of setting up the characters and plot for the big reveals and twisty ending, but I think it could've been done better as the book lost me for a while with boredom tbh. This could be a me issue, not a book issue, especially because I am not a fan of infedility tropes.
I keep reading domestic thrillers and keep being fed up with unlikeable characters or stuck up/rich people and neighborhoods but this FMC wasn't so bad at all and money wasn't a main focus for each character - refreshing!
Suspend disbelief may be necessary but I think the author has done a good job of making the twisty ending workable for the most part.
Anticipated publication date: 28 June 2023.
⚠️ Check TWs online ⚠️
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and Bookouture for my eARC in exchange for my honest review
The author did a great job of setting up the characters and plot for the big reveals and twisty ending, but I think it could've been done better as the book lost me for a while with boredom tbh. This could be a me issue, not a book issue, especially because I am not a fan of infedility tropes.
I keep reading domestic thrillers and keep being fed up with unlikeable characters or stuck up/rich people and neighborhoods but this FMC wasn't so bad at all and money wasn't a main focus for each character - refreshing!
Suspend disbelief may be necessary but I think the author has done a good job of making the twisty ending workable for the most part.
Anticipated publication date: 28 June 2023.
⚠️ Check TWs online ⚠️
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and Bookouture for my eARC in exchange for my honest review
June 28, 2023
Well written, gripping, dripping with tension, and full of secrets! The Party on Laurel Street had me turning the pages wondering what happened in the woods all those years ago just as much as I was wondering what happened the night of the party!
Mel has moved back to her grandmother's home with her husband, Luke, and daughter after her beloved grandmother's death. She has a job as a teacher in town and her husband will work as a handyman. Moving back is bittersweet. It is where she lived but also where Erin, her childhood friend, went missing and has never been found. Mel also reconnects with her friend, Gabbie, and meets her nosey rule enforcing neighbors.
I could feel the tension and unease dripping from the pages. Something isn't quite right, but what? Erin has always been on their minds. Not knowing what happened to Erin makes having closure difficult. The night of the party changes everything. A lot of characters have secrets in this book which added to the drama, mystery, and tension in the book.
There were a nice number of twists and turns in this book. I was shocked at the reveal! I did not see that coming at all! I tried to do my best super sleuthing in this book to figure out what was going on and Ruth Heald shocked me a couple of times in this book. I love it when that happens!
Gripping, well written, dripping with secrets and tension.
Thank you to Bookouture 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
Mel has moved back to her grandmother's home with her husband, Luke, and daughter after her beloved grandmother's death. She has a job as a teacher in town and her husband will work as a handyman. Moving back is bittersweet. It is where she lived but also where Erin, her childhood friend, went missing and has never been found. Mel also reconnects with her friend, Gabbie, and meets her nosey rule enforcing neighbors.
I could feel the tension and unease dripping from the pages. Something isn't quite right, but what? Erin has always been on their minds. Not knowing what happened to Erin makes having closure difficult. The night of the party changes everything. A lot of characters have secrets in this book which added to the drama, mystery, and tension in the book.
There were a nice number of twists and turns in this book. I was shocked at the reveal! I did not see that coming at all! I tried to do my best super sleuthing in this book to figure out what was going on and Ruth Heald shocked me a couple of times in this book. I love it when that happens!
Gripping, well written, dripping with secrets and tension.
Thank you to Bookouture 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
June 12, 2023
With report cards, end-of-year party planning and a summer full of possibilities creeping up quickly, I just wanted to run away from it all to something that entertained ME!
This twisty read full of tension and suspense, mysterious characters, unexpected plot twists and someone other than me trying to put ‘it’ all together was a welcome respite for this teacher.
Laurel Street has a painful and tragic past, so when Mel and Luke move back twenty-five years after Mel’s friend disappeared in the woods, I knew that they were in for some uncomfortable moments. Despite having a friend to rely on, someone who knows her well, Mel gets pulled in by the events on Laurel Street when Gabbie’s husband goes missing. Is history about to repeat itself? What is really going on in this neighbourhood?
Heald allows readers to question if honesty is always the best policy and what we can gain by keeping a secret. She shows us the wake of hurt and betrayal that results when truth is revealed. The theme of trust is well developed in this engaging, fast-paced and twisty read.
This is my fourth Ruth Heald book and I’m always amazed at her ability to shock me!
I was gifted this book by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This twisty read full of tension and suspense, mysterious characters, unexpected plot twists and someone other than me trying to put ‘it’ all together was a welcome respite for this teacher.
Laurel Street has a painful and tragic past, so when Mel and Luke move back twenty-five years after Mel’s friend disappeared in the woods, I knew that they were in for some uncomfortable moments. Despite having a friend to rely on, someone who knows her well, Mel gets pulled in by the events on Laurel Street when Gabbie’s husband goes missing. Is history about to repeat itself? What is really going on in this neighbourhood?
Heald allows readers to question if honesty is always the best policy and what we can gain by keeping a secret. She shows us the wake of hurt and betrayal that results when truth is revealed. The theme of trust is well developed in this engaging, fast-paced and twisty read.
This is my fourth Ruth Heald book and I’m always amazed at her ability to shock me!
I was gifted this book by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 22, 2023
It was meant to be a time of celebration, of neighbours chatting over sparkling glasses of wine, enjoying the decadent surroundings of the huge mansion house which overlooked all the houses on Laurel Street. But then my troubled friend Gabbie has a heated argument with her husband. She leaves the party and disappears without trace. Gabbie's neighbours rally round, painfully aware that Laurel Street has already had its share of tragedy. Years ago, when we were children, my best friend Erin vanished, never to be seen again, after having a secret party in the woods with me and Gabbie as our families celebrated the new year.
I was pulled in by the end of the first chapter. The characters were well developed. I think if I lived on Laurel Street, I'd move out. Twenty-five-years ago, a ten-year old child disappeared. and now Gabbie has disappeared. It's filled with mystery, intrigue and suspense. I could not turn the pages quick enough. Filled with twists, secrets, lies and possible suspects, were enough to keep me fully invested in this story. I never saw that ending coming. Another fantastic read by the author.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RuthHeald for my ARC of #PartyOnLaurelStreet in exchange for an honest review.
I was pulled in by the end of the first chapter. The characters were well developed. I think if I lived on Laurel Street, I'd move out. Twenty-five-years ago, a ten-year old child disappeared. and now Gabbie has disappeared. It's filled with mystery, intrigue and suspense. I could not turn the pages quick enough. Filled with twists, secrets, lies and possible suspects, were enough to keep me fully invested in this story. I never saw that ending coming. Another fantastic read by the author.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RuthHeald for my ARC of #PartyOnLaurelStreet in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2023
I'm a huge fan of Ruth Heald, she writes such gripping and suspenseful stories!
This was no exception. The plot ticked along brilliantly, cleverly plotted to allow for an excellent finish.
Laurel Street was one heck of a setting! It reminded me of Big Little Lies, the nosy, gossipy neighbourhood!
The characters were hugely varied and complemented the plot well.
Another enjoyable read from this author.
This was no exception. The plot ticked along brilliantly, cleverly plotted to allow for an excellent finish.
Laurel Street was one heck of a setting! It reminded me of Big Little Lies, the nosy, gossipy neighbourhood!
The characters were hugely varied and complemented the plot well.
Another enjoyable read from this author.
October 6, 2024
Review coming soon.
November 8, 2025
Only one thing was certain. She didn't really know the man she had married at all.
rating: 2 ⭐
this was a gripping mystery book with lots of tension and suspense to keep readers on their toes. i liked the idea of the storyline, however it didn’t really deliver well. there were a couple of parts which were quite mid.. there was a lot of potential with this plot but it just didn’t live up to my expectations, hence the low rating. could have been better imo 😞
rating: 2 ⭐
this was a gripping mystery book with lots of tension and suspense to keep readers on their toes. i liked the idea of the storyline, however it didn’t really deliver well. there were a couple of parts which were quite mid.. there was a lot of potential with this plot but it just didn’t live up to my expectations, hence the low rating. could have been better imo 😞
July 5, 2023
Mel is going back home to the cottage she inherited from her Grandmother. She is bringing her husband Luke and little daughter. She lived there with her grandmother when her mother was an alcoholic and abandon her. She has a lot of fond memories, but she also has something in her past which haunts her.
When she was ten, she and two friends played in the woods on NYE, while their parents where at a party. One of the girls has been missing for 25 years. They all suspected a handyman, but he was never found guilty.
Now back after all these years, her other friend from that night Gabbie comes up missing after a horrible fight with her husband. She disappears leaving everything behind. Mel has seen the handyman in the woods by the cottages, could he be back and have taken Gabbie? Is she next?
This psychological thriller was intense and I was invested in all the characters. Lots of great twists and possible suspects. I would have NEVER guessed the ending!!
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for this advanced copy which is available June 28, 2023
When she was ten, she and two friends played in the woods on NYE, while their parents where at a party. One of the girls has been missing for 25 years. They all suspected a handyman, but he was never found guilty.
Now back after all these years, her other friend from that night Gabbie comes up missing after a horrible fight with her husband. She disappears leaving everything behind. Mel has seen the handyman in the woods by the cottages, could he be back and have taken Gabbie? Is she next?
This psychological thriller was intense and I was invested in all the characters. Lots of great twists and possible suspects. I would have NEVER guessed the ending!!
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for this advanced copy which is available June 28, 2023
June 29, 2023
Two missing women. One in the past, Erin, and Gabbie, presently. Mel and her husband Luke have moved back home after she left twenty five years previously. Being back on Laurel Street brings back very painful memories for Mel. She cannot help but recall the tragic disappearance of her friend Erin all those years ago.
Mel and her friend Gabbie were with Erin at that time, and Erin did not make it out alive. This past tragedy takes on an ominous feeling of fear, especially when Gabbie disappears after an argument with her husband. Could Gabbie’s disappearance have anything to do with Erin’s? In fact, it soon becomes apparent that there were secrets then and that there are secrets now.
This intriguing story will definitely hold the reader’s attention. Well-written, strong characterizations and an equally strong story makes this latest book by Ruth Heald a thoroughly compelling read.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Mel and her friend Gabbie were with Erin at that time, and Erin did not make it out alive. This past tragedy takes on an ominous feeling of fear, especially when Gabbie disappears after an argument with her husband. Could Gabbie’s disappearance have anything to do with Erin’s? In fact, it soon becomes apparent that there were secrets then and that there are secrets now.
This intriguing story will definitely hold the reader’s attention. Well-written, strong characterizations and an equally strong story makes this latest book by Ruth Heald a thoroughly compelling read.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 30, 2023
★★★★ 3.5 stars (rounded up)
Only she knows what really happened that night...
Well...who would want to live on Laurel Street? Not me, that's for sure! But it made for an ideal setting. Nosy neighbours and all that. Roz was especially a thorn in my side with her exacting ideas for perfection on the street.
The story begins with a twenty five year old mystery of missing ten year old Erin who disappeared on New Years Eve party after she and her friends decided to hold a little party of their own in the woods. However, Erin brought her rucksack with her and was intent on running away. The question is...did she?
Some two decades later, Mel is returning to Laurel Street with her husband Luke and their one year old Lily, moving into the house she shared with her grandmother during her childhood. Since her gran passed she had left her house jointly to Mel and her mother, Angela, who was living in Spain. As soon as Mel arrived she was greeted by her childhood friend Gabbie who had also recently returned to the street with her husband and living in the house that Mel and Gabbie could only covet as children. But the shadow of Erin's disappearance still loomed largely over them.
At the end of the street sat the gothic manor house in which Erin had grown up and her mother Tamsin still lives. Every year Tamsin held a memorial in the village church for Erin. Mel continued a friendship with Tamsin over the years, the woman still clearly mourning the loss of her daughter with no closure and no idea what happened to her. When Tamsin decides to throw a party for the street, Mel steps in to help her organise and set up. Everyone in the street comes and it is a huge success. Until a drunken argument with her husband sees Gabbie storm out of the house...and vanishes without a trace.
At first, Mel thinks Gabbie has just left her husband as that is what he told her. But then all her calls to her friend not only go unanswered but go straight to voicemail, as if the phone is switched off. After two weeks and still no word, Mel is convinced something has happened to her and goes to the police.
The police presence on the street rakes up all old memories again from twenty five years before. They didn't find Erin then...can they find Gabbie now? Is Gabbie's disappearance linked to Erin's? Someone knows something and soon secrets begin to surface turning everyone's world upside down.
I have read all of Ruth Heald's books and I love her work though I would have to say that this one was less like a thriller than her others. It was a slow burn as the story gained momentum and was definitely intriguing but not one of her best. I did enjoy it for the most part, despite some of the unlikeable characters.
Overall, a compelling read dripping with secrets and tension.
I would like to thank #RuthHeald, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ThePartyOnLaurelStreet in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Only she knows what really happened that night...
Well...who would want to live on Laurel Street? Not me, that's for sure! But it made for an ideal setting. Nosy neighbours and all that. Roz was especially a thorn in my side with her exacting ideas for perfection on the street.
The story begins with a twenty five year old mystery of missing ten year old Erin who disappeared on New Years Eve party after she and her friends decided to hold a little party of their own in the woods. However, Erin brought her rucksack with her and was intent on running away. The question is...did she?
Some two decades later, Mel is returning to Laurel Street with her husband Luke and their one year old Lily, moving into the house she shared with her grandmother during her childhood. Since her gran passed she had left her house jointly to Mel and her mother, Angela, who was living in Spain. As soon as Mel arrived she was greeted by her childhood friend Gabbie who had also recently returned to the street with her husband and living in the house that Mel and Gabbie could only covet as children. But the shadow of Erin's disappearance still loomed largely over them.
At the end of the street sat the gothic manor house in which Erin had grown up and her mother Tamsin still lives. Every year Tamsin held a memorial in the village church for Erin. Mel continued a friendship with Tamsin over the years, the woman still clearly mourning the loss of her daughter with no closure and no idea what happened to her. When Tamsin decides to throw a party for the street, Mel steps in to help her organise and set up. Everyone in the street comes and it is a huge success. Until a drunken argument with her husband sees Gabbie storm out of the house...and vanishes without a trace.
At first, Mel thinks Gabbie has just left her husband as that is what he told her. But then all her calls to her friend not only go unanswered but go straight to voicemail, as if the phone is switched off. After two weeks and still no word, Mel is convinced something has happened to her and goes to the police.
The police presence on the street rakes up all old memories again from twenty five years before. They didn't find Erin then...can they find Gabbie now? Is Gabbie's disappearance linked to Erin's? Someone knows something and soon secrets begin to surface turning everyone's world upside down.
I have read all of Ruth Heald's books and I love her work though I would have to say that this one was less like a thriller than her others. It was a slow burn as the story gained momentum and was definitely intriguing but not one of her best. I did enjoy it for the most part, despite some of the unlikeable characters.
Overall, a compelling read dripping with secrets and tension.
I would like to thank #RuthHeald, #Netgalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ThePartyOnLaurelStreet in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
May 21, 2023
"It should be a nice party. Neighbors chatting with each other over a glass of wine. But then my friend Gabbie gets into a heated argument with her husband. She leaves the party and disappears without a trace...
Gabbie's neighbors gather, painfully aware that Laurel Street has had tragedy before. Years ago, when we were kids, my best friend Erin disappeared. It was after a secret party in the woods with me and Gabbie, while our families were celebrating the New Year..." What happened to Erin then? And will Gabbie be found alive?
'The party on Laurel Street' opens with a prologue that took place twenty-five years earlier. The fragment takes place in the woods and Erin, Gabbie and Mel are still young girls of ten years old.
Then you jump to the present. Mel moves back to Laurel Street with her husband Luke and daughter Lily. Gabbie still lives there and the two reconnect. It turns out that Gabbie's marriage isn't so perfect and on the night of the party she discovers that her husband is cheating. She gets completely upset and leaves not much later. Soon after, Gabbie is missing...
This story was very pleasant. You read about Erin's disappearance and I wondered what happened to her. Is she still alive or was she murdered? After all, Erin wanted to run away from home... but you suspect something terrible has happened. I also found Gabbie's disappearance mysterious. Did she actually leave or did something happen to her?
While reading you suspect different people, so this was well put together. And then comes the plot... Another one that was very surprising. I didn't see this coming, so I always give the book pluses anyway. It may not be a super exciting story, but there is definitely a certain atmosphere and that made me want to read on.
I want to say a big thank you to @bookouture and @netgalley for this review copy!
Rating: 4.0 ⭐
Gabbie's neighbors gather, painfully aware that Laurel Street has had tragedy before. Years ago, when we were kids, my best friend Erin disappeared. It was after a secret party in the woods with me and Gabbie, while our families were celebrating the New Year..." What happened to Erin then? And will Gabbie be found alive?
'The party on Laurel Street' opens with a prologue that took place twenty-five years earlier. The fragment takes place in the woods and Erin, Gabbie and Mel are still young girls of ten years old.
Then you jump to the present. Mel moves back to Laurel Street with her husband Luke and daughter Lily. Gabbie still lives there and the two reconnect. It turns out that Gabbie's marriage isn't so perfect and on the night of the party she discovers that her husband is cheating. She gets completely upset and leaves not much later. Soon after, Gabbie is missing...
This story was very pleasant. You read about Erin's disappearance and I wondered what happened to her. Is she still alive or was she murdered? After all, Erin wanted to run away from home... but you suspect something terrible has happened. I also found Gabbie's disappearance mysterious. Did she actually leave or did something happen to her?
While reading you suspect different people, so this was well put together. And then comes the plot... Another one that was very surprising. I didn't see this coming, so I always give the book pluses anyway. It may not be a super exciting story, but there is definitely a certain atmosphere and that made me want to read on.
I want to say a big thank you to @bookouture and @netgalley for this review copy!
Rating: 4.0 ⭐
May 20, 2023
This was a decent read with a good mystery but i overall just found it depressing. It centers on Mel, who moves back to her childhood home with her young family after the death of her grandmother. 25 years ago, her best friend disappeared and all of the players from that night still live in the neighborhood. It’s not long before the 3rd friend that was around that night also goes missing and secrets that all of them have been harboring come to light.
The mystery in the book is sound, with a couple different questions that need to be solved. I liked Mel ok but I also felt that she was a bit judgmental and not willing to forgive others, while keeping secrets herself. There were some twists that I didn’t see coming but when it all ended I just felt sad about the way everything turned out.
Overall, definitely a page turner but was just one of those books where I felt like just a couple of things the characters did differently could have made all the difference. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The mystery in the book is sound, with a couple different questions that need to be solved. I liked Mel ok but I also felt that she was a bit judgmental and not willing to forgive others, while keeping secrets herself. There were some twists that I didn’t see coming but when it all ended I just felt sad about the way everything turned out.
Overall, definitely a page turner but was just one of those books where I felt like just a couple of things the characters did differently could have made all the difference. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2023
The Party On Laurel Street is riddled with suspense, tension and entertainment.
Mel has returned, apprehensively, to Laurel Street at her grandmothers house with her husband, Luke and daughter, Lily.
When she was a child, her best friend Erin disappeared and was never found.
Reconnecting with friend, Gabbie and acquainting with the nosey neighbours, life for Mel is busy.
Soon strange memories resurface and you never can be too sure what’s happening behind closed doors.
One night the people of the street are invited to a party and it changes everything.
Then the past comes back to haunt the present.
Ruth does an accomplished job of weaving a tangle web to attract the reader.
Moving at a steady pace, the tension and unease builds with suspense and fear thrown in, you don’t know where this will go but you are eager to find out.
An alluring, entertaining and engaging story that will have you flipping the pages until all is revealed.
I was drawn into the melodrama and couldn’t look away.
Who is telling the truth and who can you trust?
Read on and find out……
Mel has returned, apprehensively, to Laurel Street at her grandmothers house with her husband, Luke and daughter, Lily.
When she was a child, her best friend Erin disappeared and was never found.
Reconnecting with friend, Gabbie and acquainting with the nosey neighbours, life for Mel is busy.
Soon strange memories resurface and you never can be too sure what’s happening behind closed doors.
One night the people of the street are invited to a party and it changes everything.
Then the past comes back to haunt the present.
Ruth does an accomplished job of weaving a tangle web to attract the reader.
Moving at a steady pace, the tension and unease builds with suspense and fear thrown in, you don’t know where this will go but you are eager to find out.
An alluring, entertaining and engaging story that will have you flipping the pages until all is revealed.
I was drawn into the melodrama and couldn’t look away.
Who is telling the truth and who can you trust?
Read on and find out……
June 30, 2023
The Party on Laurel Street is another top notch read from one of my favourite authors Ruth Heald. Immediately upon starting this book I was captivated by the story . I was sure I knew exactly how the story would work out but I was completely off track with my theory. A unputdownable read filled with twists that really caught me off guard. Good strong and well developed characters and a great pace to the story. I loved it.
August 5, 2023
It’s okay. Not amazing, not terrible. Lots of plot twists. Two or three would be believable. The number of twists piling up here gives a sense of trying way too hard.
June 26, 2023
Mel and her new husband Luke are moving back to Laurel Street the neighborhood she grew up in while living with her granny. She’s only come back once a year and that was for the memorial for her friend who went missing when they were 10. Aaron and Gabby were her best friends and when they were 10 Aaron went missing. Gabby still lives in the neighborhood with her husband Stewart but after a couple of late night visits Mel Mel learns there is trouble in paradise her Instagram perfect life isn’t so perfect after all. she even still visits Aaron‘s mom Tamson and it seems every time she does Tamison is watching what’s going on at Gabby and stewards home Mel is happy to see however that Tamison has started painting again and seems to be getting on with life and when she says she wants to throw a party Mel couldn’t be happier. Her and Luke haven’t been as close since moving to Laurel Street because he is the local handyman and it seems everyone has a job for him to do especially Gabby and Mel hasn’t forgotten Gabbys flirting Waze so on the night of the party when she finds out Stewart is leaving Gabby for their nosy neighbor she goes to comfort Gabby but finds are in the pool house with Luke when she sees her lean over to kiss him she is shocked to see how long it took Luke to pull away but she cannot confront them because she gets a call saying that her daughter has an ear ache and wants her mama but the next day it will be too late to confront Gabby because she will be gone. it also doesn’t help matters when Mel’s mom Angie shows up the one who gave her away due to Angie’s alcoholism and insist she’s moving in and what can Mel say it is half her home. Mel has a lot going on her friend Gabby is missing the man who they think killed Aaron is back in it seems her husband Luke has more than one secret he’s hiding from her. This isn’t the Laurel St., Nell Nell or is it? This book was so good Ruth he’ll has twist that you’re like oh my goodness that’s what happened… But wait there’s more in there always is in her books and I love them so much a total five star read if you love thrillers that keep on giving you need to read the party on Laurel Street by Ruth heal you will not be disappointed. as soon as it was over I immediately went down loaded “the new girl“ by Ruth Heel that’s how much I love this book I want to read more by this author and I’m going to. I received this book from NetGalley and bookoucher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
July 4, 2023
My Review:
Enjoyed!!!! Surprisedly, this was my first book by this author and it certainly won’t be my last. What first drew me in was that rocking blurb. After I was done reading it I just knew I had to find out more about this one. It left me asking questions that I needed the answers to ASAP. Now let’s talk a little bit about the characters. All of them fit so perfectly with the story line that was told. Some of them were good and some of them were bad. I’ll let you figure out who you liked and who you didn’t. Lastly, that ending shocked me. In fact, the whole book had so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. One night changed the course of so many peoples life and I hope you find out how by reading this book. I’m sure you will like it as much as I did.
In conclusion, the plot, the characters and all the twists in this book made this book an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 4 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️
Enjoyed!!!! Surprisedly, this was my first book by this author and it certainly won’t be my last. What first drew me in was that rocking blurb. After I was done reading it I just knew I had to find out more about this one. It left me asking questions that I needed the answers to ASAP. Now let’s talk a little bit about the characters. All of them fit so perfectly with the story line that was told. Some of them were good and some of them were bad. I’ll let you figure out who you liked and who you didn’t. Lastly, that ending shocked me. In fact, the whole book had so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. One night changed the course of so many peoples life and I hope you find out how by reading this book. I’m sure you will like it as much as I did.
In conclusion, the plot, the characters and all the twists in this book made this book an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 4 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️
June 25, 2023
The Party on Laurel Street is a very suspenseful read! Talk about everyone having secrets and lies!
The story revolves around the mystery of three little girls that go into the woods and only two come out.
What happened?
Now it’s 25 years later.
What secrets are still being kept?
If you are in the mood to read a creepy and intriguing story, this is a book you should pick up.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The story revolves around the mystery of three little girls that go into the woods and only two come out.
What happened?
Now it’s 25 years later.
What secrets are still being kept?
If you are in the mood to read a creepy and intriguing story, this is a book you should pick up.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 10, 2024
This book draws you in from the opening chapter. It is a flashback from events that took place twenty five years ago. It is New Year’s Eve and whilst their parents are partying friends Mel, Gabbie and Erin decide to hold a secret midnight feast in the woods. Something frightens them and they run out of the woods home but Erin has disappeared and has never been found. Fast forward twenty five years and Mel, her handyman husband Luke and their baby daughter Lily have moved back to Laurel Street where Mel used to live. She meets up with Gabbie and her husband who soon find work at their home for Luke. Mel begins to wonder if Luke is attracted to Gabbie as he seems to be spending a lot of time there. Erin’s mother decides to hold a New Year’s party and invites all the neighbours. Gabbie seems to be quite upset that night and Mel sees her have an argument with Luke and leaves the party. Next day they realise that Gabbie is missing. Has Gabbie just left or is history repeating itself? Luke was the last person to see Gabbie does he know where she is or what has happened to her? And will Mel be the next to disappear and will the secret that Mel and Gabbie have been keeping all these years be revealed? This is a book full of secrets, lies , betrayals and plenty of twists and turns. A really gripping read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. This book draws you in from the opening chapter. It is a flashback from events that took place twenty five years ago. It is New Year’s Eve and whilst their parents are partying friends Mel, Gabbie and Erin decide to hold a secret midnight feast in the woods. Something frightens them and they run out of the woods home but Erin has disappeared and has never been found. Fast forward twenty five years and Mel, her handyman husband Luke and their baby daughter Lily have moved back to Laurel Street where Mel used to live. She meets up with Gabbie and her husband who soon find work at their home for Luke. Mel begins to wonder if Luke is attracted to Gabbie as he seems to be spending a lot of time there. Erin’s mother decides to hold a New Year’s party and invites all the neighbours. Gabbie seems to be quite upset that night and Mel sees her have an argument with Luke and leaves the party. Next day they realise that Gabbie is missing. Has Gabbie just left or is history repeating itself? Luke was the last person to see Gabbie does he know where she is or what has happened to her? And will Mel be the next to disappear and will the secret that Mel and Gabbie have been keeping all these years be revealed? This is a book full of secrets, lies , betrayals and plenty of twists and turns. A really gripping read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. This book draws you in from the opening chapter. It is a flashback from events that took place twenty five years ago. It is New Year’s Eve and whilst their parents are partying friends Mel, Gabbie and Erin decide to hold a secret midnight feast in the woods. Something frightens them and they run out of the woods home but Erin has disappeared and has never been found. Fast forward twenty five years and Mel, her handyman husband Luke and their baby daughter Lily have moved back to Laurel Street where Mel used to live. She meets up with Gabbie and her husband who soon find work at their home for Luke. Mel begins to wonder if Luke is attracted to Gabbie as he seems to be spending a lot of time there. Erin’s mother decides to hold a New Year’s party and invites all the neighbours. Gabbie seems to be quite upset that night and Mel sees her have an argument with Luke and leaves the party. Next day they realise that Gabbie is missing. Has Gabbie just left or is history repeating itself? Luke was the last person to see Gabbie does he know where she is or what has happened to her? And will Mel be the next to disappear and will the secret that Mel and Gabbie have been keeping all these years be revealed? This is a book full of secrets, lies , betrayals and plenty of twists and turns. A really gripping read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 22, 2023
Only she knows what really happened that night…
Mel is returning to her childhood home on Laurel Street to live with her husband Luke and their daughter Lily. The place holds some good memories but also the tragic memory of her friend Erin disappearing twenty five years ago after she, Mel and their other friend Gabbie had a secret party in the woods at the age of ten and has never been found. Now Tamsin, Erin's mum, has decided to throw a party in the manor house to celebrate New Year and invites all the neighbours but, by the end of the evening, after an argument with her husband, Gabbie is missing. Has she decided to leave or is this history repeating itself, as Luke saw her last does he know where she is and how long will it be before the secret Mel has been hiding all these years is exposed?
This latest thriller by Heald begins twenty five years ago on New Years Eve when Erin disappeared, we then fast forward to the present day where not much has changed on Laurel Street, Mel still knows most of the neighbours from when she lived here with her gran and she's hoping that she and her family can be happy here, but Gabbie's disappearance throws everything in the air and the memories of what happened back then come flooding back. I was drawn straight into this story from the prologue, it's an intriguing read with short chapters and some very unreliable characters, most of which I held responsible for the events at some point through the book, but I was so way off the mark with my detective skills this time! There were so many secrets and a lot of betrayal going on between these people who were meant to be friends and the twists, when they came, were most unexpected. Another great read from this author, which kept me gripped throughout and I'm looking forward to reading her others.
I'd like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
Mel is returning to her childhood home on Laurel Street to live with her husband Luke and their daughter Lily. The place holds some good memories but also the tragic memory of her friend Erin disappearing twenty five years ago after she, Mel and their other friend Gabbie had a secret party in the woods at the age of ten and has never been found. Now Tamsin, Erin's mum, has decided to throw a party in the manor house to celebrate New Year and invites all the neighbours but, by the end of the evening, after an argument with her husband, Gabbie is missing. Has she decided to leave or is this history repeating itself, as Luke saw her last does he know where she is and how long will it be before the secret Mel has been hiding all these years is exposed?
This latest thriller by Heald begins twenty five years ago on New Years Eve when Erin disappeared, we then fast forward to the present day where not much has changed on Laurel Street, Mel still knows most of the neighbours from when she lived here with her gran and she's hoping that she and her family can be happy here, but Gabbie's disappearance throws everything in the air and the memories of what happened back then come flooding back. I was drawn straight into this story from the prologue, it's an intriguing read with short chapters and some very unreliable characters, most of which I held responsible for the events at some point through the book, but I was so way off the mark with my detective skills this time! There were so many secrets and a lot of betrayal going on between these people who were meant to be friends and the twists, when they came, were most unexpected. Another great read from this author, which kept me gripped throughout and I'm looking forward to reading her others.
I'd like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for the auto approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
February 26, 2024
#ThePartyOnLaurelStreet #NetGalley
Erin went missing 25 years ago now. When she was a teenager and disappeared from a New Years Eve party after her and her friends escape.from the adult party and decide to have their own party in the woods. As you do. However for Erin it was never just going to be as simply as going there for their own little party. She was ready to run away and leave her life behind her. Two+ decades later Mel is returning to Laurel Street with her husband Luke and their daughter Lily. They are going to be moving into the house that she used to live in with her grandmother. When Mel returns she is created by her old school friend Gabbie who has also recentlh returned to the street with her husband and are living in the dream house they wanted to live in since they were children. But Erin's disappearance still looms heavy over them both and every year a vigual is held in Erin's honour. Erin's mother Tamsin still lives in the street in the same house Erin used to live in. Tamsin is still mourning the loss of her daughter and without any closure and no idea of what happened to her is really struggling. Tamsin wants to celebrate the girls being back and so with the help of Mel they decide to throw a little street party. Everyone in the street are there and everything is going really well. Until that is Gabbie and her husband get into a big fight and Gabbie storms off in a rage, vanishing without a trace. Gabbies husband tells everyone Gabbie has left him but Mel doesn't believe him and becomes even more suspicious when her calls go unanswered and go.to voicemail. Mel is convinced something bad has happened to her friend and so goes and tells the police to investigate. The police presence rakes up old memories from when Erin disappeared. Will they be able to find Gabbie before it's too late? Read it
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me an advance copy.
Erin went missing 25 years ago now. When she was a teenager and disappeared from a New Years Eve party after her and her friends escape.from the adult party and decide to have their own party in the woods. As you do. However for Erin it was never just going to be as simply as going there for their own little party. She was ready to run away and leave her life behind her. Two+ decades later Mel is returning to Laurel Street with her husband Luke and their daughter Lily. They are going to be moving into the house that she used to live in with her grandmother. When Mel returns she is created by her old school friend Gabbie who has also recentlh returned to the street with her husband and are living in the dream house they wanted to live in since they were children. But Erin's disappearance still looms heavy over them both and every year a vigual is held in Erin's honour. Erin's mother Tamsin still lives in the street in the same house Erin used to live in. Tamsin is still mourning the loss of her daughter and without any closure and no idea of what happened to her is really struggling. Tamsin wants to celebrate the girls being back and so with the help of Mel they decide to throw a little street party. Everyone in the street are there and everything is going really well. Until that is Gabbie and her husband get into a big fight and Gabbie storms off in a rage, vanishing without a trace. Gabbies husband tells everyone Gabbie has left him but Mel doesn't believe him and becomes even more suspicious when her calls go unanswered and go.to voicemail. Mel is convinced something bad has happened to her friend and so goes and tells the police to investigate. The police presence rakes up old memories from when Erin disappeared. Will they be able to find Gabbie before it's too late? Read it
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me an advance copy.
June 18, 2023
Another brilliant book by Ruth Heald! Having read all but one of her books so far I couldn’t wait to get started on the party on Laurel street, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed.
One night as children, Mel, Gabby and Erin snuck out into the woods, Mel and Gabby returned but Erin was gone and hadn’t been seen since.
Fast forward a few years and Mel is now moving back into the home that was left to her by her Grandma on Laurel street. A party is being thrown in Tamain’s mansion following Mel’s return, however Tamsin has never got over Erin’s disappearance and holds out hope that one day her daughter may still return.
Whilst at the party Gabby has an argument with her husband Stuart after discovering her is cheating on her. The following day Gabby disappears without a trace. All the neighbours go out to look for Gabby but is history about to repeat itself on Laurel Street? Mel worries Gabby’s disappearance maybe linked back to her. Could it be possible that both Mel’s closest friends vanish into thin air never to be seen again and her not to be involved.
With so many secrets and lies within this book I didn’t have a clue who to trust. Everyone on Laurel street seemed to be hiding their own secrets which they all desperately wanted to keep hidden. Just when I thought it had been revealed who was responsible for Gabby’s disappearance there was a huge twist that I didn’t see coming. I was also surprised at Erin’s fate and I didn’t expect that at all.
I really enjoyed the party on Laurel street, it had me guessing right until the very end, I suspected everyone at some point and as the book went on I found myself coming up with my own theories (none of which were right) 😂
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review
One night as children, Mel, Gabby and Erin snuck out into the woods, Mel and Gabby returned but Erin was gone and hadn’t been seen since.
Fast forward a few years and Mel is now moving back into the home that was left to her by her Grandma on Laurel street. A party is being thrown in Tamain’s mansion following Mel’s return, however Tamsin has never got over Erin’s disappearance and holds out hope that one day her daughter may still return.
Whilst at the party Gabby has an argument with her husband Stuart after discovering her is cheating on her. The following day Gabby disappears without a trace. All the neighbours go out to look for Gabby but is history about to repeat itself on Laurel Street? Mel worries Gabby’s disappearance maybe linked back to her. Could it be possible that both Mel’s closest friends vanish into thin air never to be seen again and her not to be involved.
With so many secrets and lies within this book I didn’t have a clue who to trust. Everyone on Laurel street seemed to be hiding their own secrets which they all desperately wanted to keep hidden. Just when I thought it had been revealed who was responsible for Gabby’s disappearance there was a huge twist that I didn’t see coming. I was also surprised at Erin’s fate and I didn’t expect that at all.
I really enjoyed the party on Laurel street, it had me guessing right until the very end, I suspected everyone at some point and as the book went on I found myself coming up with my own theories (none of which were right) 😂
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review
June 16, 2023
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley.
"The Party on Laurel Street" is a suspenseful thriller that revolves around a fateful night of celebration on Laurel Street. The story unfolds when Gabbie, a troubled friend, has a heated argument with her husband and disappears without a trace. The neighborhood, haunted by a past tragedy involving the protagonist's, Mel's, best friend Erin. She is determined to find Gabbie and avoid another devastating loss. As secrets and suspicions emerge, Mel's husband, Luke, becomes a person of interest, leading her to question her trust in him and Gabbie. The stakes rise as Mel realizes that her long-held secret may have consequences and that someone might be seeking retribution.
The main character, Mel, is relatable and serves as a compelling anchor for the narrative. The book's overall enjoyability factor is high, thanks to its smooth and engaging writing style. The pacing is commendable, as it effectively maintains a sense of suspense and keeps the plot moving. Personally, I found myself anticipating the "wow" moments before they actually occurred, which added to the intrigue. By the halfway point, I had already formed a strong suspicion regarding the original murder, albeit only in part.
Overall, the book offers an enjoyable reading experience, characterized by relatable characters, a well-paced plot, and moments of anticipation. While not without flaws, it succeeds in delivering a satisfying thriller narrative.
https://lrjohnson13.blogspot.com/2023...
"The Party on Laurel Street" is a suspenseful thriller that revolves around a fateful night of celebration on Laurel Street. The story unfolds when Gabbie, a troubled friend, has a heated argument with her husband and disappears without a trace. The neighborhood, haunted by a past tragedy involving the protagonist's, Mel's, best friend Erin. She is determined to find Gabbie and avoid another devastating loss. As secrets and suspicions emerge, Mel's husband, Luke, becomes a person of interest, leading her to question her trust in him and Gabbie. The stakes rise as Mel realizes that her long-held secret may have consequences and that someone might be seeking retribution.
The main character, Mel, is relatable and serves as a compelling anchor for the narrative. The book's overall enjoyability factor is high, thanks to its smooth and engaging writing style. The pacing is commendable, as it effectively maintains a sense of suspense and keeps the plot moving. Personally, I found myself anticipating the "wow" moments before they actually occurred, which added to the intrigue. By the halfway point, I had already formed a strong suspicion regarding the original murder, albeit only in part.
Overall, the book offers an enjoyable reading experience, characterized by relatable characters, a well-paced plot, and moments of anticipation. While not without flaws, it succeeds in delivering a satisfying thriller narrative.
https://lrjohnson13.blogspot.com/2023...
June 27, 2023
Laurel Street has a tragic history - especially for Mel, whose childhood friend Erin disappeared after the children were having a secret party of their own in the woods, while the adults celebrated New Year. Mel grew up on Laurel Street with her grandmother, after being abandoned by her alcoholic mother, Angie.
After Mel inherits her grandmother's house - which holds many happy memories for her - she and her new husband Luke decide to move back into the neighbourhood, where she is hoping for very different second chapter. And it seems as though she might get it, reuniting with so many people that she already knows - including her friend, Gabbie, who's living the good life with her husband Stewart. Or is she?
Because in the middle of celebrating at a party, Gabbie has a falling out with her husband and Mel has an unpleasant discovery of her own. Gabbie leaves the event, only to disappear, apparently into thin air. Is Mel's second chapter on Laurel Street going to involve a repeat of the nightmare event she experienced when her first childhood friend disappeared?
The story unfolds gradually, but Ruth Heald does a great job of maintaining the suspense and the story is quite atmospheric. You do feel for Mel at times, but I honestly couldn't help wondering why she would choose to move back, given the tragedy that had already taken place on that street - and so close to home for her! I guess it was necessary though, in order for this talented author to deliver to us another of her absorbing and twisty offerings.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
After Mel inherits her grandmother's house - which holds many happy memories for her - she and her new husband Luke decide to move back into the neighbourhood, where she is hoping for very different second chapter. And it seems as though she might get it, reuniting with so many people that she already knows - including her friend, Gabbie, who's living the good life with her husband Stewart. Or is she?
Because in the middle of celebrating at a party, Gabbie has a falling out with her husband and Mel has an unpleasant discovery of her own. Gabbie leaves the event, only to disappear, apparently into thin air. Is Mel's second chapter on Laurel Street going to involve a repeat of the nightmare event she experienced when her first childhood friend disappeared?
The story unfolds gradually, but Ruth Heald does a great job of maintaining the suspense and the story is quite atmospheric. You do feel for Mel at times, but I honestly couldn't help wondering why she would choose to move back, given the tragedy that had already taken place on that street - and so close to home for her! I guess it was necessary though, in order for this talented author to deliver to us another of her absorbing and twisty offerings.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
October 8, 2023
There’s a lot going on in The Party on Laurel Street, a new psych thriller by Ruth Heald. For the most part, it is a small town with lots of secrets story – until things get darker.
Mel and her family move back to the town that she grew up in. But there are ghosts in town, as one of Mel’s best friends (Erin) disappeared when they were 10 years old.
In addition to that tragedy hanging over the residents, there are several who never left the town. For example, Mel’s other close friend Gabbie still lives there with her husband. But she’s not happy. And Erin’s mother, Tamsin, hasn’t been able to let go of the idea that her daughter might still be alive.
As soon as Mel moves into the house she grew up in with her grandmother, however, things start to go wrong for her and her husband. They argue more, Luke is always busy with handyman work…and what’s going on with Mel thinking she sees someone from her past?
The author does a good job of keeping the action evenly paced. It never drags. It balances evenly between Mel dealing with memories of the past and what’s going on in the present. And there are more connections between the two than Mel can imagine.
I guessed one of the “town secrets” but the author has some great twists toward the end that I did not see coming at all. That’s one of the things I like most about a good psych thriller – when I am surprised by any turns.
The Party on Laurel Street is a catalyst for all of the town secrets to be revealed. It puts some hearts at ease, and tears others apart. It’s pretty much everything a person can ask for in a psych thriller. Ruth Heald is a solid author in this genre and I look forward to her next one.
Mel and her family move back to the town that she grew up in. But there are ghosts in town, as one of Mel’s best friends (Erin) disappeared when they were 10 years old.
In addition to that tragedy hanging over the residents, there are several who never left the town. For example, Mel’s other close friend Gabbie still lives there with her husband. But she’s not happy. And Erin’s mother, Tamsin, hasn’t been able to let go of the idea that her daughter might still be alive.
As soon as Mel moves into the house she grew up in with her grandmother, however, things start to go wrong for her and her husband. They argue more, Luke is always busy with handyman work…and what’s going on with Mel thinking she sees someone from her past?
The author does a good job of keeping the action evenly paced. It never drags. It balances evenly between Mel dealing with memories of the past and what’s going on in the present. And there are more connections between the two than Mel can imagine.
I guessed one of the “town secrets” but the author has some great twists toward the end that I did not see coming at all. That’s one of the things I like most about a good psych thriller – when I am surprised by any turns.
The Party on Laurel Street is a catalyst for all of the town secrets to be revealed. It puts some hearts at ease, and tears others apart. It’s pretty much everything a person can ask for in a psych thriller. Ruth Heald is a solid author in this genre and I look forward to her next one.
May 9, 2023
They often say that history repeats itself and it's often very true. Sometimes it are happy events like a music style or an item of clothing that comes back in fashion, but it can be rather unpleasant, devastating things too.
Years ago a young girl went missing in the woods in this village and the neigbours were all shocked. They hoped the girl would be found safe and sound or would come back on her own, but sadly nothing happened.
Now 25 years later, a woman disappears living on the same street and being one of the girl's best friend. Are these things connected? Is the same person responsible? Who can be trusted and who do you really know?
Sometimes people hide things to protect others, but are they doing the those people a favor or do they make it worse in the end?
Honesty will get you anywhere, but sometimes it's hard to chose between a rock and a hard place. Parents should teach their children to do the right thing, shouldn't they? It's easier said than done, because, frankly, I don't know what I would do if I were to find myself in this situation. It's simple to judge, right...
I thought this was a great and very entertaining story. I did not see this coming and that's what I love about a book: to make me believe on thing or start thinking in a certain direction to blow me away by the outcome. Perfect. :)
So many people were hurt, but now that the truth has surfaced, they can start healing. 5 stars
Thank you
Years ago a young girl went missing in the woods in this village and the neigbours were all shocked. They hoped the girl would be found safe and sound or would come back on her own, but sadly nothing happened.
Now 25 years later, a woman disappears living on the same street and being one of the girl's best friend. Are these things connected? Is the same person responsible? Who can be trusted and who do you really know?
Sometimes people hide things to protect others, but are they doing the those people a favor or do they make it worse in the end?
Honesty will get you anywhere, but sometimes it's hard to chose between a rock and a hard place. Parents should teach their children to do the right thing, shouldn't they? It's easier said than done, because, frankly, I don't know what I would do if I were to find myself in this situation. It's simple to judge, right...
I thought this was a great and very entertaining story. I did not see this coming and that's what I love about a book: to make me believe on thing or start thinking in a certain direction to blow me away by the outcome. Perfect. :)
So many people were hurt, but now that the truth has surfaced, they can start healing. 5 stars
Thank you
June 17, 2023
The past collides with the present in this intriguing mystery. Mel's grandmother has passed away, and she has inherited the house where she grew up. Her mother owns 50% as well, but she is not interested in the house. Mel has fond memories of the house on Laurel Street as her grandmother was her surrogate mother when her mother pretty much abandoned her. She also has tragic memories of Laurel Street, Many years ago three girls went into the woods and only two returned home that night. Mel's friend, Erin, disappeared and she has never been found. Erin's mother holds out hope even now that her daughter is still alive. So, needless to say Rel's emotions are all over the place when she, her husband, Luke, and their daughter move into the house on Laurel Street. The other girl (Gabbie) from that fateful night still lives on Laurel Street. Gabbie has some secrets of her own, and she seems a little out of it.
Everyone in this book had secrets. This was an emotional roller coaster ride. You know something is just not right on Laurel Street, but you cannot quite put your finger on it. It is as if a dark cloud resides over Laurel Street.
This was an intriguing mystery with a mysterious man who lives in the woods, a flaky mother, secrets and betrayal. You just do not know who you can trust, and you will be compelled to continue reading so you can know who you can trust.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Everyone in this book had secrets. This was an emotional roller coaster ride. You know something is just not right on Laurel Street, but you cannot quite put your finger on it. It is as if a dark cloud resides over Laurel Street.
This was an intriguing mystery with a mysterious man who lives in the woods, a flaky mother, secrets and betrayal. You just do not know who you can trust, and you will be compelled to continue reading so you can know who you can trust.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 25, 2023
I adore Ruth's books and she is always one of my go to authors. This was yet another great read of hers!
The book opens with a flash back to 25 years ago when three 10-year-old girls, Mel, Gabbie and Erin meet up in the woods for a secret midnight feast. One of the girls disappeared back then and her vanishing has cast a shadow over the area ever since. Mel and her husband Luke are finally moving back to Laurel Street with their baby daughter, Lily, after all this time. But the ghosts of the past are never far away and soon Gabbie disappears after a party, leaving Mel wondering if she'll be next....
This gripped me from the start and I was immediately drawn into the character and setting of Laurel Street and of course the characters themselves. I really empathised with Mel, fearing that her family isn't welcome back in the street after what happened all those years ago and her increasing unease. The neighbours were all believable and the many twists and turns definitely kept me guessing! I kept thinking I'd worked it out, only to be wrong-footed yet again!
A gripping suspenseful thriller, which I highly recommend.
Thanks to author Ruth Heald, publishers Bookouture and Net Galley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 25, 2024
“It’s up to you. But I think we’re making a huge mistake. Your mother could ruin everything.”
Set in a small town in England.
Mel Singh’s grandmother recently passed away. She’s left Mel the house—the house Mel grew up in. Now Mel (35) is back—with husband Luke (30) and baby Lily (1) in tow.
Twenty-five years ago, three girls went out on New Year’s Eve: Gabbie, Erin, and Mel. But only Gabbie and Mel came home; Erin has been missing all these years.
Good pace and flow.
A mysterious man from the past reappears.
Mel still struggles to fit in; Roz does her no favors there.
The party at Tamsin’s house; an affair revealed.
Gabbie and Luke at the pool house…
And out of nowhere, Mel’s mother Angela reappears…just when Gabbie disappears.
Mel’s inner monologue does grate at points. Irritating and indecisive.
The hut in the woods.
The menacing notes continue.
How well does Mel actually know the people she’s surrounded herself with…including her own mother??
Joe Murray, the maintenance man who was always around…and further revelations.
Good twists and turns. They rock the boat, but nothing outlandish that doesn’t fit.
Erin’s real killer.
Gets rather wild around 80%.
The ending is…not the best. Kinda messy. Actual conclusion is too abrupt.
There were some things only she and Gabbie knew about the night Erin disappeared. Things they’d agreed never to tell the police.
Set in a small town in England.
Mel Singh’s grandmother recently passed away. She’s left Mel the house—the house Mel grew up in. Now Mel (35) is back—with husband Luke (30) and baby Lily (1) in tow.
Twenty-five years ago, three girls went out on New Year’s Eve: Gabbie, Erin, and Mel. But only Gabbie and Mel came home; Erin has been missing all these years.
Good pace and flow.
A mysterious man from the past reappears.
Mel still struggles to fit in; Roz does her no favors there.
The party at Tamsin’s house; an affair revealed.
Gabbie and Luke at the pool house…
And out of nowhere, Mel’s mother Angela reappears…just when Gabbie disappears.
Mel’s inner monologue does grate at points. Irritating and indecisive.
The hut in the woods.
The menacing notes continue.
How well does Mel actually know the people she’s surrounded herself with…including her own mother??
Joe Murray, the maintenance man who was always around…and further revelations.
Good twists and turns. They rock the boat, but nothing outlandish that doesn’t fit.
Erin’s real killer.
Gets rather wild around 80%.
The ending is…not the best. Kinda messy. Actual conclusion is too abrupt.
There were some things only she and Gabbie knew about the night Erin disappeared. Things they’d agreed never to tell the police.
January 6, 2026
Twenty five years ago three girls went into the forest for a midnight party. Only two returned. In the present day, Mel moves back to Laurel Street with her husband and new baby but is confronted by the past. What really happened to Erin that night and will she ever be found?
The Party on Laurel Street is a psychological thriller set in the UK.
Mel’s life was turned upside down when one of her best friends went missing twenty five years ago. Now she is back living in the same street and her missing friend’s mum decides to host a party. Her remaining childhood friend disappears and the main suspect from before is hanging around.
The prologue which depicts the night 25 year ago is written in the first person as someone watching the girls. This felt very sinister. The book is then written in the third person to show Mel’s increasing unease at her return to Laurel Street.
The style of writing is easy to read and Mel’s mixed emotions are understandable. The scenes in the woods add to the sense of foreboding. There is huge tension and suspense as we wonder what happened in the past, what is happening now, if the same person could be responsible and whether Mel is in danger.
The Party on Laurel Street is full of mystery and drama whilst also dealing with big emotions.
The Party on Laurel Street is a psychological thriller set in the UK.
Mel’s life was turned upside down when one of her best friends went missing twenty five years ago. Now she is back living in the same street and her missing friend’s mum decides to host a party. Her remaining childhood friend disappears and the main suspect from before is hanging around.
The prologue which depicts the night 25 year ago is written in the first person as someone watching the girls. This felt very sinister. The book is then written in the third person to show Mel’s increasing unease at her return to Laurel Street.
The style of writing is easy to read and Mel’s mixed emotions are understandable. The scenes in the woods add to the sense of foreboding. There is huge tension and suspense as we wonder what happened in the past, what is happening now, if the same person could be responsible and whether Mel is in danger.
The Party on Laurel Street is full of mystery and drama whilst also dealing with big emotions.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews