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Far From Harm
"A masterful look at control and manipulation" – Author Jess Kitching
"A dark, twisted and menacing domestic thriller" - Author Sandy Barker
After receiving a substantial inheritance, thirty-seven-year-old aspiring writer, Theresa, moves to the High Country of Victoria, Australia, to finally write the novel she had always planned. Here, she meets and marries Rick Goodman, a former TV star and local entrepreneur.
More than a decade her senior, Rick is charming and successful, and the most lovingly attentive partner Theresa has ever had. He encourages her dreams to write a novel and rekindles her long-forgotten desire to have a child. Life on their idyllic Alpine property is bliss, until Rick gets a text message from his ex-wife, Anita, the glamorous daughter of a wealthy TV producer. Rick tells Theresa that Anita has run off overseas with her new boyfriend, and that they must care for his teenage daughter, Chloe.
While her efforts to bond with her bewildered and resentful stepdaughter fall flat, Theresa is overjoyed when she finds herself pregnant. But as months go by with no word from Anita, Theresa’s search for answers leads her to the women in Rick’s past, and she must uncover the truth about their lives, in time to save herself and her unborn child.
“A fascinating psychological story” - Katelin Farnsworth
After receiving a substantial inheritance, thirty-seven-year-old aspiring writer, Theresa, moves to the High Country of Victoria, Australia, to finally write the novel she had always planned. Here, she meets and marries Rick Goodman, a former TV star and local entrepreneur.
More than a decade her senior, Rick is charming and successful, and the most lovingly attentive partner Theresa has ever had. He encourages her dreams to write a novel and rekindles her long-forgotten desire to have a child. Life on their idyllic Alpine property is bliss, until Rick gets a text message from his ex-wife, Anita, the glamorous daughter of a wealthy TV producer. Rick tells Theresa that Anita has run off overseas with her new boyfriend, and that they must care for his teenage daughter, Chloe.
While her efforts to bond with her bewildered and resentful stepdaughter fall flat, Theresa is overjoyed when she finds herself pregnant. But as months go by with no word from Anita, Theresa’s search for answers leads her to the women in Rick’s past, and she must uncover the truth about their lives, in time to save herself and her unborn child.
“A fascinating psychological story” - Katelin Farnsworth
- GenresThriller
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 29, 2023
8 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Naomi Shippen
3 books29 followersStories have always been an important part of Naomi's life, but it was not until recent years that she began writing her own. Naomi writes psychological thrillers and domestic suspense and is intrigued with discovering how far ostensibly ordinary people will go when placed in extreme circumstances.
Her debut novel, Far From Harm, was published in 2023, and her second novel, Before She Killed Him, is due for release on November 28th.
Naomi is working on her next book about a woman who makes a decision on the day of her daughter's wedding that will change everyone's lives forever.
Her debut novel, Far From Harm, was published in 2023, and her second novel, Before She Killed Him, is due for release on November 28th.
Naomi is working on her next book about a woman who makes a decision on the day of her daughter's wedding that will change everyone's lives forever.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 18, 2023
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: July 29, 2023
After receiving an inheritance, Theresa moves to Victoria, Australia with hopes of finally being able to complete her first novel. It isn’t long afterward though, when she meets Rick, a business owner and former TV star. Rick has big dreams, too, and soon enough, the two are married and starting a life together. But Rick is keeping secrets from Theresa, and he is quick to anger when she calls him on it. Then, Rick’s ex-wife is found murdered, her body abandoned in the bush, and the police come calling. Theresa knows that Rick has a dark side, but is he capable of murder?
“Far From Home” is the debut novel by Australian author Naomi Shippen, and unfortunately, it reads like one. Although the plot was entertaining enough to keep me engaged, the writing was amateur and the characters were unlikable. Rick is supposed to be a “bad guy” and he plays the role well. What I didn’t expect was how much I disliked Theresa. I felt no sympathy for her, and although she found herself in a rotten situation, she was naïve and weak-willed, encompassing all of the stereotypes that women in controlling relationships get labeled (mostly unnecessarily, but not in Theresa’s case). Poor Chloe, Rick’s young daughter, was the only one I sympathized with and for.
The story has short chapters, each narrated by Rick, Theresa and Marco (whose role exists simply to throw the reader another possible suspect), which makes the novel easy to read. The romantic relationship that is just beginning at the end of the novel is completely expected (I’m also not sure how ethical it is?) but overall, I was satisfied with the way the character arcs played out.
Shippen has the beginnings of a writing career just under the surface and future novels may prove this. “Home” was a good starting point, and is an easy read, and with some tweaking and development, Shippen has the capability to deliver a crowd-pleaser.
Expected publication date: July 29, 2023
After receiving an inheritance, Theresa moves to Victoria, Australia with hopes of finally being able to complete her first novel. It isn’t long afterward though, when she meets Rick, a business owner and former TV star. Rick has big dreams, too, and soon enough, the two are married and starting a life together. But Rick is keeping secrets from Theresa, and he is quick to anger when she calls him on it. Then, Rick’s ex-wife is found murdered, her body abandoned in the bush, and the police come calling. Theresa knows that Rick has a dark side, but is he capable of murder?
“Far From Home” is the debut novel by Australian author Naomi Shippen, and unfortunately, it reads like one. Although the plot was entertaining enough to keep me engaged, the writing was amateur and the characters were unlikable. Rick is supposed to be a “bad guy” and he plays the role well. What I didn’t expect was how much I disliked Theresa. I felt no sympathy for her, and although she found herself in a rotten situation, she was naïve and weak-willed, encompassing all of the stereotypes that women in controlling relationships get labeled (mostly unnecessarily, but not in Theresa’s case). Poor Chloe, Rick’s young daughter, was the only one I sympathized with and for.
The story has short chapters, each narrated by Rick, Theresa and Marco (whose role exists simply to throw the reader another possible suspect), which makes the novel easy to read. The romantic relationship that is just beginning at the end of the novel is completely expected (I’m also not sure how ethical it is?) but overall, I was satisfied with the way the character arcs played out.
Shippen has the beginnings of a writing career just under the surface and future novels may prove this. “Home” was a good starting point, and is an easy read, and with some tweaking and development, Shippen has the capability to deliver a crowd-pleaser.
July 13, 2023
This is the authors first published book and reading the acknowledgments at the end tmeans a lot after many years of wanting to take up her passion for writing and can only applaud her for that 🤗
Lets get the negative out of the way and possibly not the authors remit but the title is difficult ( doesn’t seem to flow well ) and for me does not rely the actual content of the book, if anything quite the opposite unless I am totally misunderstanding it??, and also the cover, it does not do the book justice imo
And the book itself, well that’s good, its a well written story about manipulation, narcissism and control and the man who wields all 3 and the unfortunates who are in his path, the main character Rick is suitably vile yet almost humours himself over his cruelty which was unnerving and as for the poor main victim Theresa she was all in benign in her love and seeing all that she wanted to see, maybe she missed a few red warning signs…but like many tales there wouldn’t be a story if all did as we would hope to do, I liked her and empathy overcame any niggle at her blind faith
The setting in Australia was, as I always find with books set there, fresh and descriptive and the authors really know how to paint a picture of the area they are writing about that transfers easily to your minds eye
For a debut this was more than satisfying and the writing encouraging as to what come next from this obviously talented writer
Lets get the negative out of the way and possibly not the authors remit but the title is difficult ( doesn’t seem to flow well ) and for me does not rely the actual content of the book, if anything quite the opposite unless I am totally misunderstanding it??, and also the cover, it does not do the book justice imo
And the book itself, well that’s good, its a well written story about manipulation, narcissism and control and the man who wields all 3 and the unfortunates who are in his path, the main character Rick is suitably vile yet almost humours himself over his cruelty which was unnerving and as for the poor main victim Theresa she was all in benign in her love and seeing all that she wanted to see, maybe she missed a few red warning signs…but like many tales there wouldn’t be a story if all did as we would hope to do, I liked her and empathy overcame any niggle at her blind faith
The setting in Australia was, as I always find with books set there, fresh and descriptive and the authors really know how to paint a picture of the area they are writing about that transfers easily to your minds eye
For a debut this was more than satisfying and the writing encouraging as to what come next from this obviously talented writer
July 30, 2023
Review originally posted on A Keyboard and an Open Mind July 29, 2023:
Yay, it’s another one of my writer friends making their publication debut! Congratulations, Naomi!
In Far From Harm, Naomi Shippen creates a twisty domestic scene where you can never exactly be sure what’s true and what’s not. I had a few guesses as the plot progressed, but I could never be sure.
Some of the early development, particularly the relationship between Theresa and Rick, happens “off-screen” as it were, and I would have liked to see a bit more of that, but it does make for a good demonstration of how quickly a manipulator can make someone their victim.
I did find the conversations between the characters a little repetitive and circular at times. It’s one of those things where I know realistically, these conversations would come up again and again, but they played out nearly the exact same way every time, which slowed the plot down a bit.
But having said that, Shippen has a writing style that’s very easy to read and I flew through the pages. I’m looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next!
Thank you to Kingsley Publishers for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Yay, it’s another one of my writer friends making their publication debut! Congratulations, Naomi!
In Far From Harm, Naomi Shippen creates a twisty domestic scene where you can never exactly be sure what’s true and what’s not. I had a few guesses as the plot progressed, but I could never be sure.
Some of the early development, particularly the relationship between Theresa and Rick, happens “off-screen” as it were, and I would have liked to see a bit more of that, but it does make for a good demonstration of how quickly a manipulator can make someone their victim.
I did find the conversations between the characters a little repetitive and circular at times. It’s one of those things where I know realistically, these conversations would come up again and again, but they played out nearly the exact same way every time, which slowed the plot down a bit.
But having said that, Shippen has a writing style that’s very easy to read and I flew through the pages. I’m looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next!
Thank you to Kingsley Publishers for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2023
After a somewhat slow beginning, I couldn't put this down and finished it in a day. Naomi Shippen has delivered a debut novel full of tension, atmosphere, and psychological depth that I couldn't look away from. I am very interested to see what she tackles next, and I'll definitely be picking up her next release.
August 1, 2023
Theresa's new life, full of possibilities, is sidetracked by the charming and manipulative, Rick. Tension ramps up with every clever reveal as Shippen expertly steers us through this domestic noir thriller. With the multiple POVs the reader can see all the traps and red flags waving for the disasters headed Theresa's way. Being powerless to stop them you have to keep reading to see what happens next! With a great contemporary setting, very real characters and story threads that tug on familiarity, this is a strong debut. Twists and turns, throw in a few red herrings and you have an excellent read.
Definitely an author to watch.
I was delighted to receive an early release version. Plus I bought my own copy post launch.
A great read.
Definitely an author to watch.
I was delighted to receive an early release version. Plus I bought my own copy post launch.
A great read.
July 9, 2023
Theresa, a wannabe writer in her late thirties, moves to the suburbs of Melbourne after inheriting her granny's wealth.
She thinks a silent and serene environment would help her in achieving her long-pending creative goal of becoming a published author.
Theresa comes in contact with Rick, a local businessman in his fifties who runs a restaurant.
He was once a famous TV celebrity. His personal life is not so great — twice divorced, has a son from his first marriage and a daughter from his second. He stays alone in a secluded bungalow far away from the centre.
Soon, both Theresa and Rick get on well with each other, and they get married too.
All goes on well until he gets a message from his ex-wife Anita to take care of their teen daughter Chloe. The reason: Anita is on an artist's retreat to Italy.
As Chloe comes to stay with them, Theresa finds difficult to play the part of a stepmother.
In the meantime, some usual money problem arises in the family. However, Rick never bothers, but there is a talk in the town that he has burrowed huge sums of money from almost everyone.
Theresa finds something fishy about Rick's character and his long absence on a regular basis as part of business trips. In addition, she is now pregnant.
The complexity of both physical exhaustion and mental fatigue takes a toll on her body.
Still no word from Anita, Chloe's stay is extended, and she's even joined a local school.
Then comes a news of a body found in a bushland near Melbourne, where Anita is found brutally murdered in a semi-naked posture rotting for months.
Who is the crime suspect/murderer? Of course, obviously, exes are the prime ones who can't be ignored. What will Theresa do — will she be for or against Rick?
However, there is an arrest of a land agent who had some bad business dealing with Anita.
Then comes a twist in the tale that will keep you invested completely to solve this investigation.
Once the examination begins, the pace of the novel picks up and keeps the reader glued as various red herrings are deftly placed to confuse the audience.
What I liked the most about this revenge saga is not the crime itself but its motivation, which connects all the dots.
This novel takes its sweet time to establish the characters, setup, and their intention behind each and every action.
An absolute treat to readers who love to deep-dive into the character study of human vulnerability and ugliness to control and manipulate the fellow person to achieve whatever it takes.
She thinks a silent and serene environment would help her in achieving her long-pending creative goal of becoming a published author.
Theresa comes in contact with Rick, a local businessman in his fifties who runs a restaurant.
He was once a famous TV celebrity. His personal life is not so great — twice divorced, has a son from his first marriage and a daughter from his second. He stays alone in a secluded bungalow far away from the centre.
Soon, both Theresa and Rick get on well with each other, and they get married too.
All goes on well until he gets a message from his ex-wife Anita to take care of their teen daughter Chloe. The reason: Anita is on an artist's retreat to Italy.
As Chloe comes to stay with them, Theresa finds difficult to play the part of a stepmother.
In the meantime, some usual money problem arises in the family. However, Rick never bothers, but there is a talk in the town that he has burrowed huge sums of money from almost everyone.
Theresa finds something fishy about Rick's character and his long absence on a regular basis as part of business trips. In addition, she is now pregnant.
The complexity of both physical exhaustion and mental fatigue takes a toll on her body.
Still no word from Anita, Chloe's stay is extended, and she's even joined a local school.
Then comes a news of a body found in a bushland near Melbourne, where Anita is found brutally murdered in a semi-naked posture rotting for months.
Who is the crime suspect/murderer? Of course, obviously, exes are the prime ones who can't be ignored. What will Theresa do — will she be for or against Rick?
However, there is an arrest of a land agent who had some bad business dealing with Anita.
Then comes a twist in the tale that will keep you invested completely to solve this investigation.
Once the examination begins, the pace of the novel picks up and keeps the reader glued as various red herrings are deftly placed to confuse the audience.
What I liked the most about this revenge saga is not the crime itself but its motivation, which connects all the dots.
This novel takes its sweet time to establish the characters, setup, and their intention behind each and every action.
An absolute treat to readers who love to deep-dive into the character study of human vulnerability and ugliness to control and manipulate the fellow person to achieve whatever it takes.
August 2, 2023
Congratulations to Naomi Shippen on the very recent publication of her DEBUT novel! Thank you to Kingsley Publishers for inviting me on this blog tour, and for sending me an early copy of the book.
Blurb:
After receiving a substantial inheritance, thirty-seven-year-old aspiring writer, Theresa , moves to the High Country of Victoria, Australia, to finally write the novel she had always planned. Here, she meets and marries Rick Goodman , a former TV star and local entrepreneur.
More than a decade her senior, Rick is charming and successful, and the most lovingly attentive partner Theresa has ever had. He encourages her dreams to write a novel and rekindles her long-forgotten desire to have a child. Life on their idyllic Alpine property is bliss, until Rick gets a text message from his ex-wife, Anita , the glamorous daughter of a wealthy TV producer. Rick tells Theresa that Anita has run off overseas with her new boyfriend, and that they must care for his teenage daughter, Chloe .
While her efforts to bond with her bewildered and resentful stepdaughter fall flat, Theresa is overjoyed when she finds herself pregnant. But as months go by with no word from Anita, Theresa’s search for answers leads her to the women in Rick’s past, and she must uncover the truth about their lives, in time to save herself and her unborn child.
My Review:
This started out as a really good page-turner, but somehow ran out of steam about three quarters of the way through. But never mind that … let’s focus on the good points, of which there are many.
The story is told from multiple points of view – mainly from our main characters, Theresa and Rick, and a bit from young Chloe. And then there’s Marco, who the author throws into the mix when the reader is just getting a little bit comfortable. I remember I suddenly sat up a bit and thought “Ooooh … now who do we have here?” Very clever there, Naomi! I loved how we were able to really gain a deeper understanding of each character by getting their point of view throughout the story.
It’s a slow-burner and while much of the plot will seem obvious to the reader, the author has included a lot of subtleties in her writing, clearly displaying knowledge of her subject matter. Domestic abuse is not an easy topic to address, but it’s done very well here. Theresa has no clue what she has gotten herself into, and although readers might find themselves screaming at her (out loud, at times), Rick has chosen his mark well, and knows she has nowhere to turn, and no-one to confide in.
Shippen deftly skips in and out of her character’s heads: bemused home-maker/step-mother/author; scared, lonely, confused teenager; out-of-control narcissist; lazy young hotshot. It all makes for a great read and an in-depth look at all our human strengths and weaknesses. Are we brave enough to ask ourselves big questions, like: “Would I recognise if someone was manipulating me?” “How would I know if someone was lying to me?” “What would I do if someone close to me was being abused, or if I suspected they were being abused?”
Books like this one, that lead us to ask questions and start conversations are vital. Well done to Naomi Shippen on writing such a relevant debut. I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Blurb:
After receiving a substantial inheritance, thirty-seven-year-old aspiring writer, Theresa , moves to the High Country of Victoria, Australia, to finally write the novel she had always planned. Here, she meets and marries Rick Goodman , a former TV star and local entrepreneur.
More than a decade her senior, Rick is charming and successful, and the most lovingly attentive partner Theresa has ever had. He encourages her dreams to write a novel and rekindles her long-forgotten desire to have a child. Life on their idyllic Alpine property is bliss, until Rick gets a text message from his ex-wife, Anita , the glamorous daughter of a wealthy TV producer. Rick tells Theresa that Anita has run off overseas with her new boyfriend, and that they must care for his teenage daughter, Chloe .
While her efforts to bond with her bewildered and resentful stepdaughter fall flat, Theresa is overjoyed when she finds herself pregnant. But as months go by with no word from Anita, Theresa’s search for answers leads her to the women in Rick’s past, and she must uncover the truth about their lives, in time to save herself and her unborn child.
My Review:
This started out as a really good page-turner, but somehow ran out of steam about three quarters of the way through. But never mind that … let’s focus on the good points, of which there are many.
The story is told from multiple points of view – mainly from our main characters, Theresa and Rick, and a bit from young Chloe. And then there’s Marco, who the author throws into the mix when the reader is just getting a little bit comfortable. I remember I suddenly sat up a bit and thought “Ooooh … now who do we have here?” Very clever there, Naomi! I loved how we were able to really gain a deeper understanding of each character by getting their point of view throughout the story.
It’s a slow-burner and while much of the plot will seem obvious to the reader, the author has included a lot of subtleties in her writing, clearly displaying knowledge of her subject matter. Domestic abuse is not an easy topic to address, but it’s done very well here. Theresa has no clue what she has gotten herself into, and although readers might find themselves screaming at her (out loud, at times), Rick has chosen his mark well, and knows she has nowhere to turn, and no-one to confide in.
Shippen deftly skips in and out of her character’s heads: bemused home-maker/step-mother/author; scared, lonely, confused teenager; out-of-control narcissist; lazy young hotshot. It all makes for a great read and an in-depth look at all our human strengths and weaknesses. Are we brave enough to ask ourselves big questions, like: “Would I recognise if someone was manipulating me?” “How would I know if someone was lying to me?” “What would I do if someone close to me was being abused, or if I suspected they were being abused?”
Books like this one, that lead us to ask questions and start conversations are vital. Well done to Naomi Shippen on writing such a relevant debut. I can’t wait to see what’s next!
December 22, 2023
A story about narcissism, manipulation, deception, control, power and the man that has these qualities and the unlucky people that get in his way.
For debut author, Naomi Shippen has shown quite the ability to pen a strong narrative that’s dark, acute and intense.
After receiving an inheritance and a comfortable home, Theresa arrives in a country town to attempt to write a book.
There she meets Rick Goodman.
He starts to romance her with a plan of his own.
A bygone tv star and local business owner, he has most of the town on the wrong side.
Owing money, there’s nasty rumours about and a reputation that’s not so good.
But Theresa sees only the desire he has for her.
He encourages her writing and the love she has to have a child.
But then his daughter from a previous marriage appears and his ex wife has disappeared overseas.
Things begin to not add up and Theresa finds herself pregnant.
As Theresa digs deeper, the truth is more shocking than she could ever imagine.
A domestic suspense tale with a few shades of thriller, melodrama and gaslighting behaviour.
A cage is built from many secrets and the cast must free themselves to escape.
Excellent work for a first novel and I look forward to reading more.
For debut author, Naomi Shippen has shown quite the ability to pen a strong narrative that’s dark, acute and intense.
After receiving an inheritance and a comfortable home, Theresa arrives in a country town to attempt to write a book.
There she meets Rick Goodman.
He starts to romance her with a plan of his own.
A bygone tv star and local business owner, he has most of the town on the wrong side.
Owing money, there’s nasty rumours about and a reputation that’s not so good.
But Theresa sees only the desire he has for her.
He encourages her writing and the love she has to have a child.
But then his daughter from a previous marriage appears and his ex wife has disappeared overseas.
Things begin to not add up and Theresa finds herself pregnant.
As Theresa digs deeper, the truth is more shocking than she could ever imagine.
A domestic suspense tale with a few shades of thriller, melodrama and gaslighting behaviour.
A cage is built from many secrets and the cast must free themselves to escape.
Excellent work for a first novel and I look forward to reading more.
January 18, 2024
Far From Harm by Naomi Shippen
I loved this psychological suspense novel set in the High Country of Australia. The author has a beautiful & easy-to-read writing style, and I enjoyed learning some Australian lingo. The opening two pages were brilliantly disturbing & hooked me right away!
I became very invested in the emotional journey of the main character Theresa, a 37-year-old aspiring author who marries an older man … whose first wife suddenly vanishes leaving their teenage daughter in his - and Theresa’s - care. They live in an isolated rural home, but their lives are anything but tranquil.
Where did his ex-wife go? Is Theresa safe? Can she trust her new husband? This is a gripping story and I highly recommend you pick up a copy.
I loved this psychological suspense novel set in the High Country of Australia. The author has a beautiful & easy-to-read writing style, and I enjoyed learning some Australian lingo. The opening two pages were brilliantly disturbing & hooked me right away!
I became very invested in the emotional journey of the main character Theresa, a 37-year-old aspiring author who marries an older man … whose first wife suddenly vanishes leaving their teenage daughter in his - and Theresa’s - care. They live in an isolated rural home, but their lives are anything but tranquil.
Where did his ex-wife go? Is Theresa safe? Can she trust her new husband? This is a gripping story and I highly recommend you pick up a copy.
March 20, 2025
Not entirely sure what the second star is for. Pushed through it in case things picked up but then it ended. The best part was the blurb.
July 28, 2023
Theresa is an aspiring writer who had just come into a hefty inheritance. That is until she meets Rick Goodman. Who turns her life topsy turvy. Even though the storyline shows you exactly who the characters are, the amount of gaslighting and control makes you want to tear your hair out! Naomi Shippen has done an amazing job of making you really watch the accident unfold, helplessly.
June 15, 2024
Far From Harm is the suspenseful debut novel from Melbourne author Naomi Shippen which I found very difficult to put down. With its underlying sense of menace, I flew through the short chapters, eager to find out where the story would go.
Theresa is new to town and is currently working on her first novel when she meets Rick, the charismatic owner of the cafe she has been writing in and a former television star. Sharing a connection as the newcomers to town, Rick quickly woos Theresa and they are soon married. Life is perfect, until Rick receives a text from his ex-wife Anita, to say that he needs to look after their daughter, Chloe, while she heads overseas with her new boyfriend. Months go by without word from Anita and Theresa begins to get suspicious and starts searching for answers amongst Rick’s paperwork. What she uncovers could be dangerous to both her and Chloe. Will she find the truth in time to save them?
I loved the psychological tension that this story possessed as we followed Theresa’s new day to day life with a man she thinks she knows. As more and more rumours and strange occurrences come to light, the paranoia and suspicion are high leading to a compelling and fast paced conclusion.
This book explores themes of control and manipulation as Rick’s story begins to unravel. It’s a timely read which was quite confronting, but also powerful.
Naomi has written an engaging and impactful novel which I highly recommend to lovers of suspense. I cannot wait to read what she writes next.
Theresa is new to town and is currently working on her first novel when she meets Rick, the charismatic owner of the cafe she has been writing in and a former television star. Sharing a connection as the newcomers to town, Rick quickly woos Theresa and they are soon married. Life is perfect, until Rick receives a text from his ex-wife Anita, to say that he needs to look after their daughter, Chloe, while she heads overseas with her new boyfriend. Months go by without word from Anita and Theresa begins to get suspicious and starts searching for answers amongst Rick’s paperwork. What she uncovers could be dangerous to both her and Chloe. Will she find the truth in time to save them?
I loved the psychological tension that this story possessed as we followed Theresa’s new day to day life with a man she thinks she knows. As more and more rumours and strange occurrences come to light, the paranoia and suspicion are high leading to a compelling and fast paced conclusion.
This book explores themes of control and manipulation as Rick’s story begins to unravel. It’s a timely read which was quite confronting, but also powerful.
Naomi has written an engaging and impactful novel which I highly recommend to lovers of suspense. I cannot wait to read what she writes next.
August 4, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley and Kingsley Publishers for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to scream at Theresa so many times during the book. So many red flags right in her face !! The book was really interesting all along, reading from his POV all along also. So many things he'll go through just for his greed. Love is clearly not his priority, not even for his children.
This is the first book I read from this author and I found it great.
I wanted to scream at Theresa so many times during the book. So many red flags right in her face !! The book was really interesting all along, reading from his POV all along also. So many things he'll go through just for his greed. Love is clearly not his priority, not even for his children.
This is the first book I read from this author and I found it great.
November 20, 2023
Theresa receives a large inheritance following her nana's death. She decides to move to the High Country of Victoria, Australia, to finally write the novel she has always planned. Theresa meets Rick, a former TV star and local entrepreneur. The two quickly fall in love and marry. Rick seems perfect - he dotes on Theresa and provides the encouragement for her to write her novel.
One day, Rick receives a text message from his ex-wife, advising that she is off the Europe to pursuer an artist's retreat. Rick's ex-wife leaves him with their thirteen year-old daughter, Chloe. Chloe is not happy about her move from the big city. Theresa tries to bond with Chloe, but Chloe misses her mom. Theresa later finds out that she is expecting her own child. Theresa is excited for her new life. However, as months go by, there is still no word from Rick's ex-wife. Chloe is increasingly upset and Theresa's curiosities get the best of her. She starts questioning Rick and his past. Is Theresa's relationship with Rick everything she thought it was?
This is such a quick and easy read. I really liked the short chapters and the overall plot. The story showcases Theresa, Rick, Marco (a realtor), and Chloe's perspectives. This was done super well and was not confusing at all. They did not alternate one after another (ie we might get three chapters in a row from Theresa's perspective or not hear from Chloe for a while). I really liked this way of doing different perspectives!
My main reason for giving this one three stars is due to the predictability of the plot. It's pretty clear early on how this one is going to shape out. The "twists" that happened were not shocking at all. They were super obvious. It didn't help that the reader is not given many choices for possible suspects.
I enjoyed Naomi Shippen's writing style. Although this novel was just okay for me, I definitely will be reading more of Shippen's novels in the future!
Thank you Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2023
Theresa, a thirty-seven-year-old ambitious writer, who had just received a huge inheritance from her nan after her death, has just moved to the High Country of Victoria in Australia. She has planned to take a year out to write her novel when she meets Rick Goodman. He is a former TV star and local entrepreneur and well known around the town as he has a cafe, which is where they met. They soon are living together, although Theresa is hesitant at the start, remembering her past relationship which didn’t end too well. Rick did a lot of work on her house and wined and dined her, he treated her well and was loving towards her and swept her off her feet. On a trip away, he proposed in public and she said yes and then they got married. They are now living on his farm property but it's more homely now, then it was.
Rick encourages Theresa to continue with her novel and brings the dream of her having a child up and says they can try for a baby to make their family complete. She is so happy at the prospect. Then Rick drops a bombshell and says he has had a text message from Anita, his ex-wife, saying he has to have Chloe, his daughter, as she is going away overseas with her new boyfriend.
Rick goes to pick Chloe up and finds the house up for sale, he is annoyed about that as Anita hadn’t told him she was selling the house. Chloe is distraught at leaving the house and is crying continuously, until she is in the car then it's the silent treatment for her dad. When they arrive at the farm, Theresa meets Chloe for the first time and the meeting doesn’t go that badly. Chloe just didn’t want to be there, with them, at all. Theresa manages to build a little bit of a rapport with Chloe which is more than can be said for her dad, they definitely had a hate relationship going on.Then Theresa found out she was pregnant. Rick and her were over the moon but Chloe walked in as they were talking about it and didn’t take the news well. She wanted to know when her mum was coming home. She couldn’t get her mum to answer her messages.
Rick started disappearing on business trips and leaving Theresa alone with Chloe. Chloe started distancing herself by constantly listening to music around the house and on the way to school. As the months go by with no word from Anita about when she is coming home. Theresa is going through Rick’s accounts, trying to sort them out. She comes across two accounts that she doesn’t recognise so she decides to check them out in person as it's money being paid out that they can’t afford. She goes under the guise of a new bookkeeper but Rick’s ex-wife, first one, spots her straight away and says it as it is which makes Theresa breathe a sigh of relief. They talk about the money but she won’t say why Rick is paying her after all this time although the boy is grown up and looks healthy. The woman says she's had to spend a lot of money on doctors etc over the years to get the boy sorted and he will never be right but if she wants answers, she will need to speak to Rick.
Why is Rick still paying his first wife maintenance for his child? Why does he go on business trips but there is no money coming in? Why can she never access the joint bank account funds or the account online to check it? Where is Anita?
This was a great read as it starts with a body then veers off from it for quite a while then comes back to it and takes hold of the story with a bang. Just the right amount of tension building in this slow burn of a domestic noir thriller to wet your taste buds and grasp your attention and not let you go till you have finished the book. I read it in a day as I had to know what was going to happen, who the body was and who had done it. Well done to the author on her debut novel, one to keep an eye on for the future.
Rick encourages Theresa to continue with her novel and brings the dream of her having a child up and says they can try for a baby to make their family complete. She is so happy at the prospect. Then Rick drops a bombshell and says he has had a text message from Anita, his ex-wife, saying he has to have Chloe, his daughter, as she is going away overseas with her new boyfriend.
Rick goes to pick Chloe up and finds the house up for sale, he is annoyed about that as Anita hadn’t told him she was selling the house. Chloe is distraught at leaving the house and is crying continuously, until she is in the car then it's the silent treatment for her dad. When they arrive at the farm, Theresa meets Chloe for the first time and the meeting doesn’t go that badly. Chloe just didn’t want to be there, with them, at all. Theresa manages to build a little bit of a rapport with Chloe which is more than can be said for her dad, they definitely had a hate relationship going on.Then Theresa found out she was pregnant. Rick and her were over the moon but Chloe walked in as they were talking about it and didn’t take the news well. She wanted to know when her mum was coming home. She couldn’t get her mum to answer her messages.
Rick started disappearing on business trips and leaving Theresa alone with Chloe. Chloe started distancing herself by constantly listening to music around the house and on the way to school. As the months go by with no word from Anita about when she is coming home. Theresa is going through Rick’s accounts, trying to sort them out. She comes across two accounts that she doesn’t recognise so she decides to check them out in person as it's money being paid out that they can’t afford. She goes under the guise of a new bookkeeper but Rick’s ex-wife, first one, spots her straight away and says it as it is which makes Theresa breathe a sigh of relief. They talk about the money but she won’t say why Rick is paying her after all this time although the boy is grown up and looks healthy. The woman says she's had to spend a lot of money on doctors etc over the years to get the boy sorted and he will never be right but if she wants answers, she will need to speak to Rick.
Why is Rick still paying his first wife maintenance for his child? Why does he go on business trips but there is no money coming in? Why can she never access the joint bank account funds or the account online to check it? Where is Anita?
This was a great read as it starts with a body then veers off from it for quite a while then comes back to it and takes hold of the story with a bang. Just the right amount of tension building in this slow burn of a domestic noir thriller to wet your taste buds and grasp your attention and not let you go till you have finished the book. I read it in a day as I had to know what was going to happen, who the body was and who had done it. Well done to the author on her debut novel, one to keep an eye on for the future.
July 9, 2023
**Thank you to NetGalley and Kingsley Publishers for the eARC of this thrilling title!**
While Far From Harm was closer to a 3.5 star read for me, I am rounding up to 4 stars due to it being a debut novel and the fact that it really is a page-turner!!
I read this book between 2 sittings, and couldn't get enough from each of the characters as the POV shifted every chapter. Farm From Harm follows Theresa as she moves from the city into the Australian countryside following the death of her grandmother. She buys a house, and settles down to take the year off to work on a novel.
Everything changes when she meets Rick, the owner of the coffee shop she frequents in town. He approaches her at the shop, invites her out to dinner, and it was a crazyyyyy spiral from there.
I loved the story and it was definitely a well done nail-biter. My complaints are with the character development, the jumps in time, and the ending. The female MC seemed like a perfectly well-adjusted, intelligent woman. Despite that, she made SO many idiotic choices throughout the book that it felt like a completely different character doing these things. The chapters also jumped in time quite a bit and at times even the author seemed to be confused about when things had happened, which made it feel a little disjointed as a reader. My final and biggest gripe is with the ending. The story was SO good, yet the ending felt rushed and not as satisfying as it could have been.
With all that being said - definitely check this book out!! It was a fast, wild ride and would be great for getting out of a reading slump. I don't think that I've ever read a book that is fully considered a domestic suspense but this one was a wild ride and I am definitely looking forward to checking out more from this genre and especially Naomi Shippen in the future!
While Far From Harm was closer to a 3.5 star read for me, I am rounding up to 4 stars due to it being a debut novel and the fact that it really is a page-turner!!
I read this book between 2 sittings, and couldn't get enough from each of the characters as the POV shifted every chapter. Farm From Harm follows Theresa as she moves from the city into the Australian countryside following the death of her grandmother. She buys a house, and settles down to take the year off to work on a novel.
Everything changes when she meets Rick, the owner of the coffee shop she frequents in town. He approaches her at the shop, invites her out to dinner, and it was a crazyyyyy spiral from there.
I loved the story and it was definitely a well done nail-biter. My complaints are with the character development, the jumps in time, and the ending. The female MC seemed like a perfectly well-adjusted, intelligent woman. Despite that, she made SO many idiotic choices throughout the book that it felt like a completely different character doing these things. The chapters also jumped in time quite a bit and at times even the author seemed to be confused about when things had happened, which made it feel a little disjointed as a reader. My final and biggest gripe is with the ending. The story was SO good, yet the ending felt rushed and not as satisfying as it could have been.
With all that being said - definitely check this book out!! It was a fast, wild ride and would be great for getting out of a reading slump. I don't think that I've ever read a book that is fully considered a domestic suspense but this one was a wild ride and I am definitely looking forward to checking out more from this genre and especially Naomi Shippen in the future!
September 1, 2023
Far From Harm is author Naomi Shipper’s debut novel, and it is a good, strong debut.
Theresa has moved to the country, bought a new home, is busy learning her craft, working towards her dream of becoming a published author. Due to internet issues, she spends her days in a local cafe, where she finds the attentions of Rick, the owner; a local businessman and washed up actor, who still enjoys trading on his notoriety from his time in a soap opera.
The characterisation in this domestic thriller has depth. Our narrators change with the chapters, giving greater insight into their psyche. This intensifies the reader’s sense of unease, as we have suspicions of where the story is taking us.
I love to hate a character in a book, and Naomi certainly served that up on a plate for me. I truly disliked one of the characters so very much, I couldn’t find a single redeeming feature in their nature. By the end of the book, I was wishing a grizzly demise for them.
The ironically named Far From Harm, has strong themes of narcissism and gaslighting. I’m very aware this could be a trigger for some readers, so I wanted to mention it. There are other familiar issues featured, such as tensions within the step-family dynamic, which I’m sure many readers will identify with. The book has a slow burning quality. I felt the danger for Theresa growing quietly, gathering momentum.
In the acknowledgements, you get a sense of how long Naomi longed to be an author herself. You then know where the inspiration for part of Theresa’s character was sourced.
My thanks to Kingsley Publishers for the book. As a reviewer, it’s a pleasure to find new authors and publishers, to help spread the word, so others can enjoy these books too. 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
Theresa has moved to the country, bought a new home, is busy learning her craft, working towards her dream of becoming a published author. Due to internet issues, she spends her days in a local cafe, where she finds the attentions of Rick, the owner; a local businessman and washed up actor, who still enjoys trading on his notoriety from his time in a soap opera.
The characterisation in this domestic thriller has depth. Our narrators change with the chapters, giving greater insight into their psyche. This intensifies the reader’s sense of unease, as we have suspicions of where the story is taking us.
I love to hate a character in a book, and Naomi certainly served that up on a plate for me. I truly disliked one of the characters so very much, I couldn’t find a single redeeming feature in their nature. By the end of the book, I was wishing a grizzly demise for them.
The ironically named Far From Harm, has strong themes of narcissism and gaslighting. I’m very aware this could be a trigger for some readers, so I wanted to mention it. There are other familiar issues featured, such as tensions within the step-family dynamic, which I’m sure many readers will identify with. The book has a slow burning quality. I felt the danger for Theresa growing quietly, gathering momentum.
In the acknowledgements, you get a sense of how long Naomi longed to be an author herself. You then know where the inspiration for part of Theresa’s character was sourced.
My thanks to Kingsley Publishers for the book. As a reviewer, it’s a pleasure to find new authors and publishers, to help spread the word, so others can enjoy these books too. 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
July 29, 2023
Thank you to @kingsleypublishers for providing me with a digital #ARC of #FarFromHarm by #NaomiShippen. This is one of those books that creep up on you. The characters are so real and yet they are just average humans like someone you know who’s capable of unimaginable things. And that’s terrifying, how this book explores the magnitude of evil in everyday people, why they do bad things, and how bad they can become.
💛
When an ordinary couple, Rick and Theresa become the centre of a murder investigation, it is their behaviour that will prove their innocence or guilt.
But Theresa is pregnant.
And Rick is never home.
So Theresa starts to question things.
Things about her marriage.
Things about her husband and what he’s up to when he’s not home. And if he’s working so much, why did her card decline?
But by the time the police come knocking on Theresa’s door, she’s already in trouble. It’s just a matter of time before the truth comes out in the wash.
💛
Full disclosure, I read this book when it was in the drafting phase - it was brilliant 2 years ago, but now it’s just perfection!
I love the short chapters, featuring 4 characters' POVs.
The prelude is masterful! It sets up the mood of the story so well, and it wasn’t till the end that I realised how dark it actually is (this wasn’t written when I first read this story).
So bravo, @naomi.shippen.writes I’m so proud you! Far From Harm is a triumph!
💛
When an ordinary couple, Rick and Theresa become the centre of a murder investigation, it is their behaviour that will prove their innocence or guilt.
But Theresa is pregnant.
And Rick is never home.
So Theresa starts to question things.
Things about her marriage.
Things about her husband and what he’s up to when he’s not home. And if he’s working so much, why did her card decline?
But by the time the police come knocking on Theresa’s door, she’s already in trouble. It’s just a matter of time before the truth comes out in the wash.
💛
Full disclosure, I read this book when it was in the drafting phase - it was brilliant 2 years ago, but now it’s just perfection!
I love the short chapters, featuring 4 characters' POVs.
The prelude is masterful! It sets up the mood of the story so well, and it wasn’t till the end that I realised how dark it actually is (this wasn’t written when I first read this story).
So bravo, @naomi.shippen.writes I’m so proud you! Far From Harm is a triumph!
August 1, 2023
The story is led by a variety of narrators, with each opening chapter giving us a perspective from different characters. There’s a lot of information to unpack in the opening chapters but it feels as though we are being set up for a really fascinating, sinister story ahead, and an untangling of how all the threads are going to come together.
The writing style is easy flowing and well paced, and I personally really like lots of shorter chapters like this has over longer ones as I feel like the story is moving along at a good speed.
The main characters are a real mix. Theresa comes across as a bit naive and wanting to be loved, but not a bad character, and you feel early on how manipulative Rick is going to be with her and you worry for her. As the story develops you do become a little frustrated with Theresa and the amount of obvious red flags that she misses, and her slightly self absorbed assumption that she can be a better wife and mother than Ricks exes.
The story has everything from deceit, murder, missing persons, teenage angst, family dynamics, suspense and rage. The ending felt a little rushed in comparison to the rest of the story and wrapped up a bit quickly, but not disappointing in its conclusion. An excellent debut novel and I will definitely return to the author for further reads in future.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kingsley Publishers for this e-arc for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
The writing style is easy flowing and well paced, and I personally really like lots of shorter chapters like this has over longer ones as I feel like the story is moving along at a good speed.
The main characters are a real mix. Theresa comes across as a bit naive and wanting to be loved, but not a bad character, and you feel early on how manipulative Rick is going to be with her and you worry for her. As the story develops you do become a little frustrated with Theresa and the amount of obvious red flags that she misses, and her slightly self absorbed assumption that she can be a better wife and mother than Ricks exes.
The story has everything from deceit, murder, missing persons, teenage angst, family dynamics, suspense and rage. The ending felt a little rushed in comparison to the rest of the story and wrapped up a bit quickly, but not disappointing in its conclusion. An excellent debut novel and I will definitely return to the author for further reads in future.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kingsley Publishers for this e-arc for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
July 24, 2023
For a debut novel this has promise and I can see the author going from strength to strength.
Set in the outskirts of Melbourne Australia the author has used some wonderful descriptive outlines for you to visualise the surroundings.
Theresa has recently inherited some money after her grandmother passed away, so deciding on leaving the city and pursuing her love of writing a novel she moves to the suburbs.
This is where she meets Rick the owner of a small cafe. Rick used to be a TV star back in the day and this fascinates Theresa, they soon build up a friendship and before long start dating.
Rick has already been married twice with a twenty year old son from his first marriage and a thirteen year old daughter Chloe from his second marriage. But Rick has convinced Theresa that he wants a child with her and being thirty seven she has plenty of time to conceive.
They are soon Married and it becomes apparent to the reader that Rick is up to no good but unfortunately Thetesa is wearing rose tinted glasses.
When Rick's daughter Chloe has to come and stay with them after her mum goes on holiday it is on the understanding the she will return home before school starts back up in a couple of weeks.
The story takes a sudden twist and things start to unravel.
A great debut novel which involves narcissism, control and manipulation.
Set in the outskirts of Melbourne Australia the author has used some wonderful descriptive outlines for you to visualise the surroundings.
Theresa has recently inherited some money after her grandmother passed away, so deciding on leaving the city and pursuing her love of writing a novel she moves to the suburbs.
This is where she meets Rick the owner of a small cafe. Rick used to be a TV star back in the day and this fascinates Theresa, they soon build up a friendship and before long start dating.
Rick has already been married twice with a twenty year old son from his first marriage and a thirteen year old daughter Chloe from his second marriage. But Rick has convinced Theresa that he wants a child with her and being thirty seven she has plenty of time to conceive.
They are soon Married and it becomes apparent to the reader that Rick is up to no good but unfortunately Thetesa is wearing rose tinted glasses.
When Rick's daughter Chloe has to come and stay with them after her mum goes on holiday it is on the understanding the she will return home before school starts back up in a couple of weeks.
The story takes a sudden twist and things start to unravel.
A great debut novel which involves narcissism, control and manipulation.
July 25, 2023
Theresa thinks she's finally found everything she needed when she meets Rick and moves into his farm with him.
However, there are warning signs and that's before Chloe comes to stay with them after her mother mysteriously vanishes.
I have to say that Rick was written superbly, because I despised him. What an utterly odious excuse of a man. Not only was he nasty, mean, vindictive, narcissistic, a pathological liar, and enjoying it all along, I don't think you'll find many more despicable creatures in fiction.
I wanted to reach into the book and shake Theresa and tell her to wake up and see what was going on. Even when she did spot some of the signs and stand up to him, he twisted it back around.
Chloe added an interesting perspective, knowing her dad wasn't always what he appeared, and holding information that was vital to the case. It gave it a very real and human edge, a true reaction to being ripped away from everything you know and trying to fit into a new family, school and friendship group.
The setting of Australia was brilliant, but I felt this is something that could have been expanded on. I'm not aware of the country and didn't get much of a feel for it from here.
This is a superb, well written debut, a high level of suspense throughout and a 'just another chapter' vibe with some very short chapters. I demolished this quickly.
However, there are warning signs and that's before Chloe comes to stay with them after her mother mysteriously vanishes.
I have to say that Rick was written superbly, because I despised him. What an utterly odious excuse of a man. Not only was he nasty, mean, vindictive, narcissistic, a pathological liar, and enjoying it all along, I don't think you'll find many more despicable creatures in fiction.
I wanted to reach into the book and shake Theresa and tell her to wake up and see what was going on. Even when she did spot some of the signs and stand up to him, he twisted it back around.
Chloe added an interesting perspective, knowing her dad wasn't always what he appeared, and holding information that was vital to the case. It gave it a very real and human edge, a true reaction to being ripped away from everything you know and trying to fit into a new family, school and friendship group.
The setting of Australia was brilliant, but I felt this is something that could have been expanded on. I'm not aware of the country and didn't get much of a feel for it from here.
This is a superb, well written debut, a high level of suspense throughout and a 'just another chapter' vibe with some very short chapters. I demolished this quickly.
August 3, 2023
✍️ Theresa has moved to Victoria's high country after receiving an inheritance from her grandmother. She is able to finally write a novel she always planned. When she arrives she meets former tv star and older businessman Rick and they get married. She's in love.
Everything is going well until Rick receives a message from his former wife to take care of their daughter Chloe while she goes on a art retreat in Italy. Things start to get interesting from here when Theresa discovers money problems in Rick's life and a body found in bushland.
After reading the synopsis I was INSTANTLY Intrigued and fascinated by the storyline and couldn't wait to read it. What a STUNNING Debut!
Dark, Twisty and Suspenseful, A few pages in and I was completely captivated by the narrative and drawn in to the disquieting characters as well as the apprehensive nature of the storyline that was created in a way that had you gripped from start to finish. I couldn't put it down and I finished it in one sitting.
The story was cleverly written with well-polished characters, mystery and twists and turns that kept me in surprise and excitement. I enjoyed the multiple character POV's that were short and brimming with plenty of engaging dialogue and the guileful way they were portrayed in a variety of ways to make it more entertaining to read.
Highly recommend!
Everything is going well until Rick receives a message from his former wife to take care of their daughter Chloe while she goes on a art retreat in Italy. Things start to get interesting from here when Theresa discovers money problems in Rick's life and a body found in bushland.
After reading the synopsis I was INSTANTLY Intrigued and fascinated by the storyline and couldn't wait to read it. What a STUNNING Debut!
Dark, Twisty and Suspenseful, A few pages in and I was completely captivated by the narrative and drawn in to the disquieting characters as well as the apprehensive nature of the storyline that was created in a way that had you gripped from start to finish. I couldn't put it down and I finished it in one sitting.
The story was cleverly written with well-polished characters, mystery and twists and turns that kept me in surprise and excitement. I enjoyed the multiple character POV's that were short and brimming with plenty of engaging dialogue and the guileful way they were portrayed in a variety of ways to make it more entertaining to read.
Highly recommend!
July 29, 2023
Congratulations to Naomi Shippen for her amazing debut novel! Happy Publication Day!!! 🎉
I want to give a huge thank you to Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book.
This novel has all the elements that make a shocking domestic thriller, from toxic relationships to murder. It really emphasizes how easily manipulators can bring chaos into our lives. The story takes place in Australia, where the main character relocates in order to write a novel. Little did she know that meeting and marrying a man would take her new journey on a twisted turn.
Shippen does an exceptional job addressing the topics of narcissism and manipulation. I was also captivated by her vivid descriptions of the surroundings. There's nothing better than a book that transports you to another place, and she did this brilliantly!
I gave this book a 4.5 rating for being such an impressive debut novel, but I rounded it up to a 5-star rating for its exceptional portrayal of toxic relationships. I can't wait to see what great novels Shippen will write in the future!
Lastly, I want to say thank you to Jess Kitching, one of my favorite authors, for recommending this book
in her group!
I want to give a huge thank you to Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book.
This novel has all the elements that make a shocking domestic thriller, from toxic relationships to murder. It really emphasizes how easily manipulators can bring chaos into our lives. The story takes place in Australia, where the main character relocates in order to write a novel. Little did she know that meeting and marrying a man would take her new journey on a twisted turn.
Shippen does an exceptional job addressing the topics of narcissism and manipulation. I was also captivated by her vivid descriptions of the surroundings. There's nothing better than a book that transports you to another place, and she did this brilliantly!
I gave this book a 4.5 rating for being such an impressive debut novel, but I rounded it up to a 5-star rating for its exceptional portrayal of toxic relationships. I can't wait to see what great novels Shippen will write in the future!
Lastly, I want to say thank you to Jess Kitching, one of my favorite authors, for recommending this book
in her group!
August 20, 2023
Theresa having moved to country Victoria to focus on writing her novel meets Rick, a former TV star who she falls in love with. She believes he’s the best, most loving husband and he reignites her passion to have a child of her own. However, when Rick’s ex-wife goes missing and his daughter moves in with them a series of events is set off which ring alarm bells for Theresa. Theresa tries to uncover the truth to save herself and her unborn child.
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Naomi Shippen. It’s a clever domestic suspense which kept me turning the pages to find out the truth myself. I particularly liked the way the story is told from multiple points of view including Theresa, Rick, Chloe & even the real estate agent and the chapters are quite short and snappy which kept me engaged throughout.
The characters were well written, Rick in particular will make any reader enraged by his manipulation and narcissism. I also loved the setting and felt that the authors passion for country Victoria shone through in the novel.
Overall I thought this was a great debut novel and well worth a read if you enjoy domestic suspense novels. Thanks to Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for the kindle copy for review, all opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this debut novel from Naomi Shippen. It’s a clever domestic suspense which kept me turning the pages to find out the truth myself. I particularly liked the way the story is told from multiple points of view including Theresa, Rick, Chloe & even the real estate agent and the chapters are quite short and snappy which kept me engaged throughout.
The characters were well written, Rick in particular will make any reader enraged by his manipulation and narcissism. I also loved the setting and felt that the authors passion for country Victoria shone through in the novel.
Overall I thought this was a great debut novel and well worth a read if you enjoy domestic suspense novels. Thanks to Kingsley Publishers and NetGalley for the kindle copy for review, all opinions are my own.
July 31, 2023
Far From Harm by Naomi Shippen is a successful attempt at writing a domestic thriller to keep the readers on the edge till the very ending. With every fact laid out in the open, it is really interesting to see how the mind of a manipulator works. Rick is an ex-TV celebrity and Theresa is an aspiring author. When they meet, Rick manages to manipulate Theresa in every way possible. She's new in town and knows no one and Rick being nice to her only makes her believe him more. What follows this is a trail of lies, deception and danger. Many times the red flags were so evident, I just wanted to reach inside my kindle and shake Theresa up and tell her, "Woman, look at the red signals!!" The chemistry between Rick and Theresa was also just 'Eh'. That should have woken up her. I didn't think Rick's character could get worse. But I was proved wrong. He was just.. BAD. Page after page, he was just stooping down a little more. Then there's a murder. There's a furious teenager stepdaughter. There's a business going down. So many turns and twists! It was very intriguing. This was a solid four star read for me.
July 10, 2023
A stunning debut that will have you turning the pages. When Theresa moves to a small town to write a book, the last thing she expects is the meet someone. Rick is older and a business owner full of different dreams every week. Dazzled by him and the life he promises, Theresa soon finds herself married and living at Rick’s farm, away from society while he uses her house to float businesses she’s never sure are turning a profit or sending them broke.
When Rick’s ex-wife supposedly abandons Rick’s daughter and flees the country, Theresa is now a stepmother dealing with a surly teen. But what really happened to Rick’s ex-wife, & can Theresa believe him when the only thing he’s told her is to tell the police she was with him, no matter the truth? Far From Harm is a suspenseful domestic thriller full of mystery, turns, and characters you’ll both love and hate. Beautifully written by author, Naomi Shippen, it’s a masterclass on gaslighting, manipulation, and the harsh truths about who you can trust.
When Rick’s ex-wife supposedly abandons Rick’s daughter and flees the country, Theresa is now a stepmother dealing with a surly teen. But what really happened to Rick’s ex-wife, & can Theresa believe him when the only thing he’s told her is to tell the police she was with him, no matter the truth? Far From Harm is a suspenseful domestic thriller full of mystery, turns, and characters you’ll both love and hate. Beautifully written by author, Naomi Shippen, it’s a masterclass on gaslighting, manipulation, and the harsh truths about who you can trust.
July 29, 2023
This domestic suspense thriller is a story that is not so much focused on the crime itself, but is instead very character lead. I found the character of Rick fascinating. He has his public image that he wants to protect and his faded fame and love of money that pushes him to still try and make something of himself,whatever the cost. Even when I thought I knew the worst about him, he still managed to shock me with his odious actions both past and present.
His daughter’s perspective really bought a lot of emotion to the story. Chloe is a typical teenager, who doesn’t have the best relationship with her Dad and who just wants to be back home again, to go to friend’s parties and most importantly see her missing Mum again.
I enjoy books with mutiple POV’s and this was definitely the case with Far From Harm. The alternating chapters between Rick and his new wife Teresa made the story an engaging page turner.
Far from harm shows just how subtle the art of control and manipulation can begin and just how dark things can get when the facade begins to crack.
His daughter’s perspective really bought a lot of emotion to the story. Chloe is a typical teenager, who doesn’t have the best relationship with her Dad and who just wants to be back home again, to go to friend’s parties and most importantly see her missing Mum again.
I enjoy books with mutiple POV’s and this was definitely the case with Far From Harm. The alternating chapters between Rick and his new wife Teresa made the story an engaging page turner.
Far from harm shows just how subtle the art of control and manipulation can begin and just how dark things can get when the facade begins to crack.
August 21, 2023
Far From Harm by Naomi Shippen, is a newly released debut novel.
I found the first half of the story lacking character, it was rather slow paced and I wasn’t a fan of the Insta love trope in the book either. The second half of the book picked up which made it easier to race to the end but at the same time I wasn’t overly excited to know what was going to happen.
Theresa was a bit daft towards Rick's narcissism and gaslighting behaviour. Which infuriated me because it was so obvious what he was doing.
Rick on the other side was calculating, self-centred and just a straight out prick. I didn’t like either one of them, I think my favourite character was probably Rick’s teenage daughter Chloe.
I think if you like manipulation you might just like this book, but sadly it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you Netgalley and Kingsley Publishers for the digital copy of Far From Harm.
I found the first half of the story lacking character, it was rather slow paced and I wasn’t a fan of the Insta love trope in the book either. The second half of the book picked up which made it easier to race to the end but at the same time I wasn’t overly excited to know what was going to happen.
Theresa was a bit daft towards Rick's narcissism and gaslighting behaviour. Which infuriated me because it was so obvious what he was doing.
Rick on the other side was calculating, self-centred and just a straight out prick. I didn’t like either one of them, I think my favourite character was probably Rick’s teenage daughter Chloe.
I think if you like manipulation you might just like this book, but sadly it just wasn’t for me.
Thank you Netgalley and Kingsley Publishers for the digital copy of Far From Harm.
July 29, 2023
This book is a domestic suspense thriller but it fails to deliver the kind of suspense required in such a genre. It's very monotonous, there are hardly any major twists and the storyline is so basic and flat. The readers are made aware of who the killer is right from the beginning, and the whole book just charts the lives of the characters until the killer is caught. The entire plot is weak, and the characters too are shabby. There's also the use of multiple povs which was pointless, but still fun.
However, what I liked most about this book was the short chapters and the writing. I probably think this is the first book where I felt that the execution was done well, but the plot was a bummer :(
However, what I liked most about this book was the short chapters and the writing. I probably think this is the first book where I felt that the execution was done well, but the plot was a bummer :(
December 19, 2023
I don't think I've ever read a book throughout which my consistent thought was: Gosh, this author is having fun!
But Naomi Shippen did just that in crafting her debut novel, FAR FROM HARM. What sets this domestic thriller apart, and makes it so bloody enjoyable to read, is that its written from the POV of four characters — aspiring writer, Theresa, her new husband, ex-TV star, Rick, his teenage daughter, Chloe, and real estate agent, Marco, who may hold the key to Rick's ex-wife's disappearance.
What a guilty pleasure it was to glimpse the world through the eyes of misogynist, psychopath, Rick! And the disconnect between that and Theresa's perception of the situation was *chef's kiss*!
A rollicking good, page-turning time!
But Naomi Shippen did just that in crafting her debut novel, FAR FROM HARM. What sets this domestic thriller apart, and makes it so bloody enjoyable to read, is that its written from the POV of four characters — aspiring writer, Theresa, her new husband, ex-TV star, Rick, his teenage daughter, Chloe, and real estate agent, Marco, who may hold the key to Rick's ex-wife's disappearance.
What a guilty pleasure it was to glimpse the world through the eyes of misogynist, psychopath, Rick! And the disconnect between that and Theresa's perception of the situation was *chef's kiss*!
A rollicking good, page-turning time!
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