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The New Girl
BRAND NEW from Top Ten Bestseller Alison Stockham Praise for Alison Stockham
The letterbox clatters and sitting on the mat is a piece of paper, in black and white, with everything needed to blow Anna’s perfect life apart.
A baby scan photo.
Anna and Jon have been trying for a baby with no success, so after years of disappointment, this feels like a kick in the teeth.
Who sent it? And why?
Anna’s thoughts fall on Grace – the keen young woman Jon hired at their printing business. Something about Grace isn’t quite right. She asks too many questions and makes Anna nervous but she can’t work out why.
And she can’t deny she sees the way her husband looks at her.
‘It begins with a visceral shock and evolves through unexpected twists and turns to a deeply felt and satisfying conclusion’ Greg Mosse
'This was a beautifully written debut that handles a difficult subject matter with a delicacy that makes me excited to read whatever Alison Stockham writes next' Stacy Thomas
‘This book comes with a killer hook… Sibling relationships, post-natal depression, marriages with cracks that turn into fissures and the nature of friendship are all explored via a pacy storyline.’ Jo Leevers
'Stormed through The Cuckoo Sister by Alison Stockham... A fascinating premise and she handles it admirably, with nuance and compassion.' Laura Pearson
'Beautifully poignant and utterly compelling.' Alex Stone
'An emotional and relatable story.' Louise Douglas
'Such a clever and engaging book with a late twist that I absolutely did not predict.' Beth Miller
'A brilliant concept delivered with real emotional depth and clout. I felt for each and every character in this story of family, guilt and deepest desires' Gytha Lodge
The letterbox clatters and sitting on the mat is a piece of paper, in black and white, with everything needed to blow Anna’s perfect life apart.
A baby scan photo.
Anna and Jon have been trying for a baby with no success, so after years of disappointment, this feels like a kick in the teeth.
Who sent it? And why?
Anna’s thoughts fall on Grace – the keen young woman Jon hired at their printing business. Something about Grace isn’t quite right. She asks too many questions and makes Anna nervous but she can’t work out why.
And she can’t deny she sees the way her husband looks at her.
‘It begins with a visceral shock and evolves through unexpected twists and turns to a deeply felt and satisfying conclusion’ Greg Mosse
'This was a beautifully written debut that handles a difficult subject matter with a delicacy that makes me excited to read whatever Alison Stockham writes next' Stacy Thomas
‘This book comes with a killer hook… Sibling relationships, post-natal depression, marriages with cracks that turn into fissures and the nature of friendship are all explored via a pacy storyline.’ Jo Leevers
'Stormed through The Cuckoo Sister by Alison Stockham... A fascinating premise and she handles it admirably, with nuance and compassion.' Laura Pearson
'Beautifully poignant and utterly compelling.' Alex Stone
'An emotional and relatable story.' Louise Douglas
'Such a clever and engaging book with a late twist that I absolutely did not predict.' Beth Miller
'A brilliant concept delivered with real emotional depth and clout. I felt for each and every character in this story of family, guilt and deepest desires' Gytha Lodge
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2024
675 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
April 10, 2024
Secrets, lies, and a big surprise! I had no idea where this book was going when I picked it up. I was pleasantly surprised with the writing and intriguing plot.
Anna and Jon are a married couple who own a business together. They have been trying to have a baby for quite some time with no success. Jon hires Grace as an intern to help as their business picks up. Anna is a little leery as Grace begins asking questions about her life and past. Why so nosey? Then, one day a baby scan is left at her home and Anna can't help but wonder who sent it, what it means and wonders if Jon has been cheating on her. Could the baby be his???
This book is full of secrets, past pain and trauma, and insecurity. I wanted to yell "communicate, communicate, communicate" at my kindle. Anna likes to share things with her friend that she has never shared with her husband. What secret is she keeping from him?????? She is not the only one keeping a secret in this book!
Overall, this was an enjoyable read full of secrets, twists, and revelations.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Boldwood books, Rachel’s Random Resources 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 📖
Anna and Jon are a married couple who own a business together. They have been trying to have a baby for quite some time with no success. Jon hires Grace as an intern to help as their business picks up. Anna is a little leery as Grace begins asking questions about her life and past. Why so nosey? Then, one day a baby scan is left at her home and Anna can't help but wonder who sent it, what it means and wonders if Jon has been cheating on her. Could the baby be his???
This book is full of secrets, past pain and trauma, and insecurity. I wanted to yell "communicate, communicate, communicate" at my kindle. Anna likes to share things with her friend that she has never shared with her husband. What secret is she keeping from him?????? She is not the only one keeping a secret in this book!
Overall, this was an enjoyable read full of secrets, twists, and revelations.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Boldwood books, Rachel’s Random Resources 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 📖
March 31, 2024
Anna & Jon have a great life - or do they? They’ve got an up and coming printing business, and they’ve been happily married for 7 years. However, there’s one thing missing for them - a baby. It hasn’t happened for them and it’s not a secret to those around them. When a baby scan photo shows up at their home addressed to Anna, with no explanation as to who sent it or why - Anna feels uneasy. Why would someone do this? Are they trying to tell her something? Is it someone from her past, bringing up trouble? Or someone from her life now - who knows a secret she doesn’t?
Overall - I enjoyed the story, and the twist was a surprise I didn’t see coming, even though I wrongly guessed every other option before 😂
My main issue was that this book is heavy with religion. The main characters are religious (they met at a church, very involved in the community, etc), say things like “if it’s God’s plan, it’ll happen”, and even brings up some trauma from the past that is 100% related to religious parents. With both characters being religious, it’s clearly a central point of their relationship and just peppered in this book all over the place. This might not be an issue for some, but as someone who isn’t solidly set in their religion, this was a really big turn off for me. Truthfully had I known religion played a part in the story at all, I probably wouldn’t have requested to read it in the first place. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, as always!
Overall - I enjoyed the story, and the twist was a surprise I didn’t see coming, even though I wrongly guessed every other option before 😂
My main issue was that this book is heavy with religion. The main characters are religious (they met at a church, very involved in the community, etc), say things like “if it’s God’s plan, it’ll happen”, and even brings up some trauma from the past that is 100% related to religious parents. With both characters being religious, it’s clearly a central point of their relationship and just peppered in this book all over the place. This might not be an issue for some, but as someone who isn’t solidly set in their religion, this was a really big turn off for me. Truthfully had I known religion played a part in the story at all, I probably wouldn’t have requested to read it in the first place. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, as always!
July 10, 2024
Unfortunately, I found this book to be repetitive and a bit boring. I guessed the twist at chapter 12 and since that point just wanted to skip over the book until the end. It was easy to guess what was happening throughout the book and the characters just didnt appeal to me. I didn't find it true to life the way they spoke and acted towards each other. I felt like the MCs dialogue and thoughts were repeated over and over again just to bulk the story out. Maybe its just because I've read that many books I'm getting good at guessing the plots and need something to shock me.
December 18, 2024
I stuck wth this book even though I found it quite boring. Definitely not a thriller.
July 11, 2024
Just not an interesting book. The main character is unlikable, the dialogue is terrible and it was flat. Even the twist was easy to guess.
April 19, 2024
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The New Girl' by Alison Stockham.
Read and reviewed for Alison Stockham, Boldwood Books, Book & Tonic, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources Tours.
Publication date 9th April 2024
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!
This novel consists of 29 chapters. The chapters are short in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
'The New Girl' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Keri discusses/includes Miscarriage, marriage problems and infidelity
WHAT did I just read!!!! WOW!!! I mean seriously Wow!! I was NOT expecting that lot fair play!!! This has GOT to start with a MASSIVE WELL DONE Keri!!!! Ooopps sorry, yes, needed a minute to get over that but I've just left you hanging there... Sorry.... Let me tell you more...
Firstly let's start off with the writing style, etc!! This book is an extremely well written book by this amazing author which had me hook line and sinker!!! It is so smoothly and fantastically written with vivid descriptions I completely forgot I was even reading a book a few times. The synopsis, title and cover really fit the storyline. As you can tell I LOVED the storyline!!! I found it to be realistic, heart racing, addictive ,extremely fast paced and everything you could ask for in an absolutely gripping storyline!! In this gripping domestic thriller we meet married couple Anna and Jon. They run their own small business and have been trying for a baby for a long time with no success. Jon lost his previous wife and unborn child in an accident and is desperate for a child or his own. To help them have more time for themselves and help Anna relax in order to help them conceive Jon employs the niece of a friend Grace to help them out in their business. Anna isn't happy that Jon has made this decision without her but it is too late and Grace has been told to come in to see what she thinks of the job. Not long after Grace starts working for Anna and Jon a baby scan picture is posted anonymously to Anna and Jon and Grace starts acting strangely. What is going on between Grace and Jon? Who sent the scan to Anna and what is she hiding? Who can be trusted, if anyone? Pick up your copy today to find out the answers to these questions and many more. This fast paced domestic thriller is ram packed with secrets, family, lies and an explosive twist that I would have never seen coming!! A huge congratulations to Alison on managing to shock me!! I have read hundreds of psychological and thriller books so it is getting harder and harder to surprise me but you managed it hook, line and sinker!! I was left questioning who was hiding what and didn't know if I could trust any of the characters at all!! Alison discusses important but difficult topics such as fertility issues, miscarriage and marriage problems but does so sensitivity and manages to weave them all into a great storyline that I just could not put down!!! Alison's fantastic evocative writing skills ensures the reader is sucked deep into the storyline with the characters, atmosphere and emotions coming to life in front of them. All of the characters were very well developed, strong and realistic. I must admit that I wasn't really a fan of any of them and although this isn't a surprise in itself, what is is the fact that I still enjoyed the storyline!! If I dislike all of the characters in books I tend to struggle with the book itself but I had absolutely no problems with this one!! Anna annoyed me with some of her behaviours, accusations (especially towards her and Jon's friend Kate) and found her to go to extreme lengths at times. I found Jon to be a bit dull in the way that he went about things with just no thoughts to how Anna may feel. I was very wary of Grace especially with her strange attitude towards Anna. However, regardless if you like them or not they all played their parts perfectly and all came to life as you turn the pages. This book was fast paced with something constantly happening to keep you addicted. Every time I kept telling myself one more chapter the one I was in ended at a point where there was no way I could stop reading so I absolutely devoured it in one sitting!! Just brilliant fair play and everything linked in and wraps up perfectly!!! I cannot remember the last time I flew through a book so quickly. Each and every time I went to put it down to do something my fingers were itching to pick it back up as I just HAD to know what happened next!! I can't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so if you want to know you'll have to grab yourself a copy!! I would absolutely LOVE to see this turned into a movie and would wait up all night to get tickets to watch it!! An absolute must read!!
Congratulations Alison on an absolutely explosive success!!! This is the exact reason I would like to welcome you to my favourite author club!! Here's to your next success 🥂!!!
Clear your schedules before picking this addictive thriller up as you will not be able to put it down!!!
Make sure you read to the very end of the book to read the first chapter of Alison's 'The Silent Friend' which promises to be just as addictive as this book and is one I'm definitely looking forward to reading myself!!
Overall an absolutely page turning, addictive, gripping and explosive must read that will keep you addicted from the very start to the mind blowing ending!!!
290 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon, free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.99 in paperback which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews.
#TheNewGirl #AlisonStockham #BoldwoodBooks #theboldbookclub #BoldwoodBloggers #BookAndTonic #RachelsRandomResources #rararesources #BooksOnTour #BookReview #BlogTour #Goodreads #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited #Netgalley
@TheNewGirl @AlisonStockham @RachelsRandomResources @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks @theboldbookclub @BoldwoodBloggers @BookAndTonic @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Goodreads @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnimited @Netgalley
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Review for 'The New Girl' by Alison Stockham.
Read and reviewed for Alison Stockham, Boldwood Books, Book & Tonic, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources Tours.
Publication date 9th April 2024
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!
This novel consists of 29 chapters. The chapters are short in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
'The New Girl' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Keri discusses/includes Miscarriage, marriage problems and infidelity
WHAT did I just read!!!! WOW!!! I mean seriously Wow!! I was NOT expecting that lot fair play!!! This has GOT to start with a MASSIVE WELL DONE Keri!!!! Ooopps sorry, yes, needed a minute to get over that but I've just left you hanging there... Sorry.... Let me tell you more...
Firstly let's start off with the writing style, etc!! This book is an extremely well written book by this amazing author which had me hook line and sinker!!! It is so smoothly and fantastically written with vivid descriptions I completely forgot I was even reading a book a few times. The synopsis, title and cover really fit the storyline. As you can tell I LOVED the storyline!!! I found it to be realistic, heart racing, addictive ,extremely fast paced and everything you could ask for in an absolutely gripping storyline!! In this gripping domestic thriller we meet married couple Anna and Jon. They run their own small business and have been trying for a baby for a long time with no success. Jon lost his previous wife and unborn child in an accident and is desperate for a child or his own. To help them have more time for themselves and help Anna relax in order to help them conceive Jon employs the niece of a friend Grace to help them out in their business. Anna isn't happy that Jon has made this decision without her but it is too late and Grace has been told to come in to see what she thinks of the job. Not long after Grace starts working for Anna and Jon a baby scan picture is posted anonymously to Anna and Jon and Grace starts acting strangely. What is going on between Grace and Jon? Who sent the scan to Anna and what is she hiding? Who can be trusted, if anyone? Pick up your copy today to find out the answers to these questions and many more. This fast paced domestic thriller is ram packed with secrets, family, lies and an explosive twist that I would have never seen coming!! A huge congratulations to Alison on managing to shock me!! I have read hundreds of psychological and thriller books so it is getting harder and harder to surprise me but you managed it hook, line and sinker!! I was left questioning who was hiding what and didn't know if I could trust any of the characters at all!! Alison discusses important but difficult topics such as fertility issues, miscarriage and marriage problems but does so sensitivity and manages to weave them all into a great storyline that I just could not put down!!! Alison's fantastic evocative writing skills ensures the reader is sucked deep into the storyline with the characters, atmosphere and emotions coming to life in front of them. All of the characters were very well developed, strong and realistic. I must admit that I wasn't really a fan of any of them and although this isn't a surprise in itself, what is is the fact that I still enjoyed the storyline!! If I dislike all of the characters in books I tend to struggle with the book itself but I had absolutely no problems with this one!! Anna annoyed me with some of her behaviours, accusations (especially towards her and Jon's friend Kate) and found her to go to extreme lengths at times. I found Jon to be a bit dull in the way that he went about things with just no thoughts to how Anna may feel. I was very wary of Grace especially with her strange attitude towards Anna. However, regardless if you like them or not they all played their parts perfectly and all came to life as you turn the pages. This book was fast paced with something constantly happening to keep you addicted. Every time I kept telling myself one more chapter the one I was in ended at a point where there was no way I could stop reading so I absolutely devoured it in one sitting!! Just brilliant fair play and everything linked in and wraps up perfectly!!! I cannot remember the last time I flew through a book so quickly. Each and every time I went to put it down to do something my fingers were itching to pick it back up as I just HAD to know what happened next!! I can't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so if you want to know you'll have to grab yourself a copy!! I would absolutely LOVE to see this turned into a movie and would wait up all night to get tickets to watch it!! An absolute must read!!
Congratulations Alison on an absolutely explosive success!!! This is the exact reason I would like to welcome you to my favourite author club!! Here's to your next success 🥂!!!
Clear your schedules before picking this addictive thriller up as you will not be able to put it down!!!
Make sure you read to the very end of the book to read the first chapter of Alison's 'The Silent Friend' which promises to be just as addictive as this book and is one I'm definitely looking forward to reading myself!!
Overall an absolutely page turning, addictive, gripping and explosive must read that will keep you addicted from the very start to the mind blowing ending!!!
290 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon, free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.99 in paperback which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews.
#TheNewGirl #AlisonStockham #BoldwoodBooks #theboldbookclub #BoldwoodBloggers #BookAndTonic #RachelsRandomResources #rararesources #BooksOnTour #BookReview #BlogTour #Goodreads #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited #Netgalley
@TheNewGirl @AlisonStockham @RachelsRandomResources @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks @theboldbookclub @BoldwoodBloggers @BookAndTonic @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Goodreads @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnimited @Netgalley
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April 7, 2024
First, I want to thank Alison Stockham, Boldwood Books, Rachel’s Random Resources and NetGalley.
WOW!!! Readers are always asking me for book recommendations that are unpredictable and give you the wow factor-well I have just the book for you! Yes, Alison Stockham’s The New Girl does just that.
One thing that is different from most psychological thrillers that I have read is that Alison incorporated a religious theme to the storyline. It was done subtlety and not overbearing. I thought it was quite refreshing to see in a book.
Oh what an emotional rollercoaster Alison put me on with this one! Most of the book I had empathy for various situations that were going on. However, there was one deep dark revelation that revealed that I was literally screaming at my Kindle!! I was furious and wanted to jump into the book and give the character a piece of my mind. It was a brilliant twist and Alison went there but WOW!!
This is definitely one book you will want to put on your TBR list as I bet readers will be talking about this book!
WOW!!! Readers are always asking me for book recommendations that are unpredictable and give you the wow factor-well I have just the book for you! Yes, Alison Stockham’s The New Girl does just that.
One thing that is different from most psychological thrillers that I have read is that Alison incorporated a religious theme to the storyline. It was done subtlety and not overbearing. I thought it was quite refreshing to see in a book.
Oh what an emotional rollercoaster Alison put me on with this one! Most of the book I had empathy for various situations that were going on. However, there was one deep dark revelation that revealed that I was literally screaming at my Kindle!! I was furious and wanted to jump into the book and give the character a piece of my mind. It was a brilliant twist and Alison went there but WOW!!
This is definitely one book you will want to put on your TBR list as I bet readers will be talking about this book!
April 15, 2024
Jon and Anna find each other and connect over each losing a baby. They get married and start a business. Their business is growing, and Jon suggests hiring someone to help them out. While Anna is iffy about it, Jon has basically already hired Grace. Grace starts asking personal questions, and Anna sees Grace and Jon whispering a lot and suspects they are having an affair. Everyone seems to be keeping a secret, but what are they and how do they effect each others’ lives.
This is the true definition of a slow burn. A little too slow for me personally, but there are those that really love slow burns, then you will absolutely love this book. Told in the third person point of view, we are told the story from Anna’s perspective. I would have liked to have gotten the perspectives of the other main characters, but the fact that we don’t really helps the mystery.
There was something early on that tipped me in the direction of one of the secrets, but as the author so skillfully did, I was thrown off that scent. Then I was second guessing what I thought the secret could be.
I’ve seen a lot of comments about the religion in the book. For me, it didn’t bother me. I actually barely noticed it. So this will be different for every person that reads it.
I did find Anna slightly annoying, and even more so when she was with her friend, Kate. But I guess if I thought my husband was having an affair, I may be annoying and not myself either.
All in all, a good book.
This is the true definition of a slow burn. A little too slow for me personally, but there are those that really love slow burns, then you will absolutely love this book. Told in the third person point of view, we are told the story from Anna’s perspective. I would have liked to have gotten the perspectives of the other main characters, but the fact that we don’t really helps the mystery.
There was something early on that tipped me in the direction of one of the secrets, but as the author so skillfully did, I was thrown off that scent. Then I was second guessing what I thought the secret could be.
I’ve seen a lot of comments about the religion in the book. For me, it didn’t bother me. I actually barely noticed it. So this will be different for every person that reads it.
I did find Anna slightly annoying, and even more so when she was with her friend, Kate. But I guess if I thought my husband was having an affair, I may be annoying and not myself either.
All in all, a good book.
April 27, 2024
The premise of this book was slightly different from anything I’ve read before. So I was intrigued from the very beginning. I just knee that I had it figured out, but the ending was SO unexpected! This book has it all - secrets, betrayal, lies, and drama. There was no lack of twists and turns throughout this story. I felt a plethora of emotions while reading this one. It was such a roller coaster. I thought things were one way, but things were very different than they seemed. I was pleasantly surprised with the writing style that kept me intrigued and playing investigator to try and determine what was really going on. I enjoyed that there was a religious component, which you don’t really see in thrillers. Yet, it wasn’t done in an overbearing manner. Definitely recommend.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 19, 2024
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The New Girl' by Alison Stockham.
Read and reviewed for Alison Stockham, Boldwood Books, Book & Tonic, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources Tours.
Publication date 9th April 2024
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!
This novel consists of 29 chapters. The chapters are short in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
'The New Girl' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Keri discusses/includes Miscarriage, marriage problems and infidelity
WHAT did I just read!!!! WOW!!! I mean seriously Wow!! I was NOT expecting that lot fair play!!! This has GOT to start with a MASSIVE WELL DONE Keri!!!! Ooopps sorry, yes, needed a minute to get over that but I've just left you hanging there... Sorry.... Let me tell you more...
Firstly let's start off with the writing style, etc!! This book is an extremely well written book by this amazing author which had me hook line and sinker!!! It is so smoothly and fantastically written with vivid descriptions I completely forgot I was even reading a book a few times. The synopsis, title and cover really fit the storyline. As you can tell I LOVED the storyline!!! I found it to be realistic, heart racing, addictive ,extremely fast paced and everything you could ask for in an absolutely gripping storyline!! In this gripping domestic thriller we meet married couple Anna and Jon. They run their own small business and have been trying for a baby for a long time with no success. Jon lost his previous wife and unborn child in an accident and is desperate for a child or his own. To help them have more time for themselves and help Anna relax in order to help them conceive Jon employs the niece of a friend Grace to help them out in their business. Anna isn't happy that Jon has made this decision without her but it is too late and Grace has been told to come in to see what she thinks of the job. Not long after Grace starts working for Anna and Jon a baby scan picture is posted anonymously to Anna and Jon and Grace starts acting strangely. What is going on between Grace and Jon? Who sent the scan to Anna and what is she hiding? Who can be trusted, if anyone? Pick up your copy today to find out the answers to these questions and many more. This fast paced domestic thriller is ram packed with secrets, family, lies and an explosive twist that I would have never seen coming!! A huge congratulations to Alison on managing to shock me!! I have read hundreds of psychological and thriller books so it is getting harder and harder to surprise me but you managed it hook, line and sinker!! I was left questioning who was hiding what and didn't know if I could trust any of the characters at all!! Alison discusses important but difficult topics such as fertility issues, miscarriage and marriage problems but does so sensitivity and manages to weave them all into a great storyline that I just could not put down!!! Alison's fantastic evocative writing skills ensures the reader is sucked deep into the storyline with the characters, atmosphere and emotions coming to life in front of them. All of the characters were very well developed, strong and realistic. I must admit that I wasn't really a fan of any of them and although this isn't a surprise in itself, what is is the fact that I still enjoyed the storyline!! If I dislike all of the characters in books I tend to struggle with the book itself but I had absolutely no problems with this one!! Anna annoyed me with some of her behaviours, accusations (especially towards her and Jon's friend Kate) and found her to go to extreme lengths at times. I found Jon to be a bit dull in the way that he went about things with just no thoughts to how Anna may feel. I was very wary of Grace especially with her strange attitude towards Anna. However, regardless if you like them or not they all played their parts perfectly and all came to life as you turn the pages. This book was fast paced with something constantly happening to keep you addicted. Every time I kept telling myself one more chapter the one I was in ended at a point where there was no way I could stop reading so I absolutely devoured it in one sitting!! Just brilliant fair play and everything linked in and wraps up perfectly!!! I cannot remember the last time I flew through a book so quickly. Each and every time I went to put it down to do something my fingers were itching to pick it back up as I just HAD to know what happened next!! I can't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so if you want to know you'll have to grab yourself a copy!! I would absolutely LOVE to see this turned into a movie and would wait up all night to get tickets to watch it!! An absolute must read!!
Congratulations Alison on an absolutely explosive success!!! This is the exact reason I would like to welcome you to my favourite author club!! Here's to your next success 🥂!!!
Clear your schedules before picking this addictive thriller up as you will not be able to put it down!!!
Make sure you read to the very end of the book to read the first chapter of Alison's 'The Silent Friend' which promises to be just as addictive as this book and is one I'm definitely looking forward to reading myself!!
Overall an absolutely page turning, addictive, gripping and explosive must read that will keep you addicted from the very start to the mind blowing ending!!!
290 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon, free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.99 in paperback which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews.
#TheNewGirl #AlisonStockham #BoldwoodBooks #theboldbookclub #BoldwoodBloggers #BookAndTonic #RachelsRandomResources #rararesources #BooksOnTour #BookReview #BlogTour #Goodreads #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited #Netgalley
@TheNewGirl @AlisonStockham @RachelsRandomResources @rararesources @BoldwoodBooks @theboldbookclub @BoldwoodBloggers @BookAndTonic @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Goodreads @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnimited @Netgalley
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Review for 'The New Girl' by Alison Stockham.
Read and reviewed for Alison Stockham, Boldwood Books, Book & Tonic, NetGalley and Rachel's Random Resources Tours.
Publication date 9th April 2024
This is the first book I have read by this author but it most definitely won't be my last!
This novel consists of 29 chapters. The chapters are short in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
'The New Girl' discusses some topics that may upset some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Keri discusses/includes Miscarriage, marriage problems and infidelity
WHAT did I just read!!!! WOW!!! I mean seriously Wow!! I was NOT expecting that lot fair play!!! This has GOT to start with a MASSIVE WELL DONE Keri!!!! Ooopps sorry, yes, needed a minute to get over that but I've just left you hanging there... Sorry.... Let me tell you more...
Firstly let's start off with the writing style, etc!! This book is an extremely well written book by this amazing author which had me hook line and sinker!!! It is so smoothly and fantastically written with vivid descriptions I completely forgot I was even reading a book a few times. The synopsis, title and cover really fit the storyline. As you can tell I LOVED the storyline!!! I found it to be realistic, heart racing, addictive ,extremely fast paced and everything you could ask for in an absolutely gripping storyline!! In this gripping domestic thriller we meet married couple Anna and Jon. They run their own small business and have been trying for a baby for a long time with no success. Jon lost his previous wife and unborn child in an accident and is desperate for a child or his own. To help them have more time for themselves and help Anna relax in order to help them conceive Jon employs the niece of a friend Grace to help them out in their business. Anna isn't happy that Jon has made this decision without her but it is too late and Grace has been told to come in to see what she thinks of the job. Not long after Grace starts working for Anna and Jon a baby scan picture is posted anonymously to Anna and Jon and Grace starts acting strangely. What is going on between Grace and Jon? Who sent the scan to Anna and what is she hiding? Who can be trusted, if anyone? Pick up your copy today to find out the answers to these questions and many more. This fast paced domestic thriller is ram packed with secrets, family, lies and an explosive twist that I would have never seen coming!! A huge congratulations to Alison on managing to shock me!! I have read hundreds of psychological and thriller books so it is getting harder and harder to surprise me but you managed it hook, line and sinker!! I was left questioning who was hiding what and didn't know if I could trust any of the characters at all!! Alison discusses important but difficult topics such as fertility issues, miscarriage and marriage problems but does so sensitivity and manages to weave them all into a great storyline that I just could not put down!!! Alison's fantastic evocative writing skills ensures the reader is sucked deep into the storyline with the characters, atmosphere and emotions coming to life in front of them. All of the characters were very well developed, strong and realistic. I must admit that I wasn't really a fan of any of them and although this isn't a surprise in itself, what is is the fact that I still enjoyed the storyline!! If I dislike all of the characters in books I tend to struggle with the book itself but I had absolutely no problems with this one!! Anna annoyed me with some of her behaviours, accusations (especially towards her and Jon's friend Kate) and found her to go to extreme lengths at times. I found Jon to be a bit dull in the way that he went about things with just no thoughts to how Anna may feel. I was very wary of Grace especially with her strange attitude towards Anna. However, regardless if you like them or not they all played their parts perfectly and all came to life as you turn the pages. This book was fast paced with something constantly happening to keep you addicted. Every time I kept telling myself one more chapter the one I was in ended at a point where there was no way I could stop reading so I absolutely devoured it in one sitting!! Just brilliant fair play and everything linked in and wraps up perfectly!!! I cannot remember the last time I flew through a book so quickly. Each and every time I went to put it down to do something my fingers were itching to pick it back up as I just HAD to know what happened next!! I can't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so if you want to know you'll have to grab yourself a copy!! I would absolutely LOVE to see this turned into a movie and would wait up all night to get tickets to watch it!! An absolute must read!!
Congratulations Alison on an absolutely explosive success!!! This is the exact reason I would like to welcome you to my favourite author club!! Here's to your next success 🥂!!!
Clear your schedules before picking this addictive thriller up as you will not be able to put it down!!!
Make sure you read to the very end of the book to read the first chapter of Alison's 'The Silent Friend' which promises to be just as addictive as this book and is one I'm definitely looking forward to reading myself!!
Overall an absolutely page turning, addictive, gripping and explosive must read that will keep you addicted from the very start to the mind blowing ending!!!
290 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon, free with Kindle Unlimited and £9.99 in paperback which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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May 29, 2024
Had a twist I wasn’t expecting at the end. But the main character was hard to root for, she was kind of awful.
July 20, 2024
This is not a psychological thriller!
It's too cozy, everyone's nice enough, there's no need for revenge, no need to survive, no gaslight... Nothing really, except for a bad childhood that you have no actual access to, therefore you can't really fully understand Anna's misery and fears.
Not my kind of story, didn't make me excited to read it... I was actually bored and disappointed.
Maybe the gripping, addictive psychological thriller, wrongfully advertised, is a joke on readers, misleading them to buy this book and hope for an actual psychological thriller throughout every single chapter...no luck there.
If you like cozy books, go crazy, I'm sure you'll love it.
It's too cozy, everyone's nice enough, there's no need for revenge, no need to survive, no gaslight... Nothing really, except for a bad childhood that you have no actual access to, therefore you can't really fully understand Anna's misery and fears.
Not my kind of story, didn't make me excited to read it... I was actually bored and disappointed.
Maybe the gripping, addictive psychological thriller, wrongfully advertised, is a joke on readers, misleading them to buy this book and hope for an actual psychological thriller throughout every single chapter...no luck there.
If you like cozy books, go crazy, I'm sure you'll love it.
April 9, 2024
The new girl is a domestic mystery story. It’s a slice of life with a few twists and turns. Anna and Jon are in a relationship and own a business together. Jon brings in a “new girl” to help and Anna isn’t happy with the decision, thinking they are having an affair. The story follows Anna’s unravelling and the strains placed on the marriage. The stakes are fairly low and the suspense is mild but it’s a good easy read.
There is a bit of a religious background to the characters and the book includes topics of infertility and child loss.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC copy to read and review.
There is a bit of a religious background to the characters and the book includes topics of infertility and child loss.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC copy to read and review.
April 12, 2024
Thank you Rachel’s Random Resources for my free review copy, given in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Anna and Jon are married and own a business together. They are also trying, unsuccessfully, for a baby. Add to that the strain of keeping secrets both past and present and you have a relationship under pressure. Into this toxic mix comes Grace. A young girl hired by Jon to help out at the office. Hired without consulting Anna. Anna becomes increasingly suspicious of the close relationship between Grace and Jon. Suspicions that are fuelled by speculations about the relationship by Anna’s best friend.
All this adds up to a tense thriller that raises lots of questions and creates an atmosphere I can only describe as uncomfortable. The descriptions of Anna’s over thinking and spiralling paranoia are well done and although I didn’t find her particularly likeable, I did feel sorry for her. The final twist was unexpected and took me by surprise. Altogether an easy, quick and enjoyable read.
Anna and Jon are married and own a business together. They are also trying, unsuccessfully, for a baby. Add to that the strain of keeping secrets both past and present and you have a relationship under pressure. Into this toxic mix comes Grace. A young girl hired by Jon to help out at the office. Hired without consulting Anna. Anna becomes increasingly suspicious of the close relationship between Grace and Jon. Suspicions that are fuelled by speculations about the relationship by Anna’s best friend.
All this adds up to a tense thriller that raises lots of questions and creates an atmosphere I can only describe as uncomfortable. The descriptions of Anna’s over thinking and spiralling paranoia are well done and although I didn’t find her particularly likeable, I did feel sorry for her. The final twist was unexpected and took me by surprise. Altogether an easy, quick and enjoyable read.
August 14, 2024
This one was a mixed bag for me; there were lots of elements I liked and enjoyed but others that left me feeling slightly impatient as it felt the plot was slow and dragged a little in places.
The author deals with difficult issues well and there are several potential trigger warnings with infertility, child loss and deceit within relationships all central to the plot.
There is an interesting angle with the religious aspect throughout, which deals with both positive and negative aspects of faith and its impact on the behaviour of others. It was central to understanding how Anna’s anxiety and mistrust of others as a result of her upbringing impacted on her judgement in different situations.
That said, Anna’s refusal to accept responsibility for her own deceitful actions, using her childhood as an excuse eventually became frustrating and I found her hypocrisy when imagining what she perceived to be happening between Jon and Grace a real bugbear.
I was convinced I had the basis of the plot figured out early on and couldn’t work out why it wasn’t even considered by Anna or Kate, especially after the baby scan was posted. Just before the actual twist was revealed towards the end, I realised my faux pas and at that point, began to feel some empathy for Anna again.
The ending certainly laid a few demons to rest but part of me was left feeling Anna should still have been made accountable for her earlier deception. But, no one’s going to argue with a potential happy ending!
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
The author deals with difficult issues well and there are several potential trigger warnings with infertility, child loss and deceit within relationships all central to the plot.
There is an interesting angle with the religious aspect throughout, which deals with both positive and negative aspects of faith and its impact on the behaviour of others. It was central to understanding how Anna’s anxiety and mistrust of others as a result of her upbringing impacted on her judgement in different situations.
That said, Anna’s refusal to accept responsibility for her own deceitful actions, using her childhood as an excuse eventually became frustrating and I found her hypocrisy when imagining what she perceived to be happening between Jon and Grace a real bugbear.
I was convinced I had the basis of the plot figured out early on and couldn’t work out why it wasn’t even considered by Anna or Kate, especially after the baby scan was posted. Just before the actual twist was revealed towards the end, I realised my faux pas and at that point, began to feel some empathy for Anna again.
The ending certainly laid a few demons to rest but part of me was left feeling Anna should still have been made accountable for her earlier deception. But, no one’s going to argue with a potential happy ending!
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
March 31, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up
Anna and Jon were set on having a child but faced disappointment and had no results for years! But Jon had no clue that Anna was hiding her secrets! Then, a piece of paper with a black-and-white photo of a scan of a baby came through her letterbox! Who’s pregnant? Why was it sent to her? Jon is cheating and got some girl knocked up?!
Enter Grace into the scene—the new girl Jon took on to work in their print shop! Anna smells a rat with Jon and Grace! This book has all the feels. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. It is one I would highly recommend reading!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources, Blodwood Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
Anna and Jon were set on having a child but faced disappointment and had no results for years! But Jon had no clue that Anna was hiding her secrets! Then, a piece of paper with a black-and-white photo of a scan of a baby came through her letterbox! Who’s pregnant? Why was it sent to her? Jon is cheating and got some girl knocked up?!
Enter Grace into the scene—the new girl Jon took on to work in their print shop! Anna smells a rat with Jon and Grace! This book has all the feels. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. It is one I would highly recommend reading!
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources, Blodwood Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
April 15, 2024
Anna was so paranoid throughout the entire book I began to get paranoid too.
I really thought Jon and Grace were up to no good. I never dreamt another possibility could be the truth until it literally hit me full on in the face. My reaction was to be chagrined because I should have figured it out sooner.
I was bothered by Anna’s lying to Jon about a very big thing.
I don’t think she will be able to keep it s secret and I believe she will rue the day she didn’t tell Jon.
It’s a guessing book full of miscues, placed adeptly and purposely by the author.
Thanks to NetGalley Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for the advance copy.
I really thought Jon and Grace were up to no good. I never dreamt another possibility could be the truth until it literally hit me full on in the face. My reaction was to be chagrined because I should have figured it out sooner.
I was bothered by Anna’s lying to Jon about a very big thing.
I don’t think she will be able to keep it s secret and I believe she will rue the day she didn’t tell Jon.
It’s a guessing book full of miscues, placed adeptly and purposely by the author.
Thanks to NetGalley Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for the advance copy.
April 21, 2024
I loved this, despite getting everything wrong and going way off route with trying to guess what was going on.
I’m a massive fan, so I knew I was in for a treat, she writes the best characters and there always to be one who annoys me, this book had Grace, such a annoying sneaky and patronising person! I wanted Anna to punch her in certain points 😂
This has some great twists, add to your TBR
I’m a massive fan, so I knew I was in for a treat, she writes the best characters and there always to be one who annoys me, this book had Grace, such a annoying sneaky and patronising person! I wanted Anna to punch her in certain points 😂
This has some great twists, add to your TBR
April 10, 2024
2.5 rounded up to 3.
My unrestrained thoughts: Hm… Quite good. Hm… What is happening? Hm… I don’t understand where this is going. Hm… I see, this is how it ends. Okay…
Now, onto a little sophisticated review – it may contain tiny spoilers!
TW: Potential infidelity, marriage issues, past miscarriage, and potential infertility.
I have never read Alison Stockham’s novels before so whatever thoughts I have on her writing style or structure are restricted for The New Girl only. Its story goes like this – Anna and Jon seem to be flourishing together, they have a seemingly happy marriage and running a business. But their inability to conceive has driven a wedge between them, but they, like any other couple, sweep it under the rug.
But that wedge deepens when Jon butters up Anna to get a new intern to help them with the work. In comes Grace – a young girl half their age who is attractive and suspiciously close to Jon. Right from the start, warning bells ring in Anna’s head about Grace, further fuelled by her friend, Kate’s assumptions about Jon’s possible infidelity. The conflict comes to a head when a baby scan photo comes to Anna’s doorstep. Why is it important? 1. Because it taunts Anna on her well-kept secret about their inability to conceive. 2. The back of it reads Grace. *dramatic sound effect*
If you think you can imagine where this is going, you simply can’t! Because the reveal flips the script all over. There were certainly some parts that I loved, but I have to be honest here, even though the protagonist was relatable, I didn’t like her much. Anna lets her paranoia overtake her throughout the book, blowing things way out of proportion. As a result, most of the narrative circles round and round without getting to the point or even dropping any foreshadowing events.
Another point is that there is a pretty big religious aspect to the novel. I wasn’t expecting that and I immediately saw amazing potential in that angle… but that was also not handled properly. Unfortunately, all these (and other things) made the book a bit tedious for me to read.
What I liked about the book:
• The realistic portrayal of overthinking: The way Anna spiraled over her own assumptions was something I liked only because I found it totally relatable. She thinking the worst and taking a molehill and making a mountain of it… I know for a fact that’s exactly how overthinking works.
• Anna’s day-to-day life: Even if Anna was overthinking all the time, the author didn’t fail to show how Anna lived every day. Snippets of her home life, her workdays, and her church visits – all these painted a homely picture that I couldn’t help but like. It showed that Anna was a really jovial yet dedicated person, and I would have loved to see that more… but, oh well!
• Parts of the big reveal: I didn’t like the way the reveal was handled, but there were parts of it that I couldn’t help but appreciate. Firstly, the actual mystery – I simply wasn’t expecting that. It made my jaw drop and gave me some satisfaction after all those grueling chapters. And secondly,
What I wasn’t impressed with:
Imagine you want something and it’s right there in front of you. But for some reason, it seems to move away from you when you go closer to it. This book felt like that to me. It was truly capable of becoming one of the best mystery books with a slice-of-life twist (but it came across as the other way around)… I guess that goal moved away from the author when she tried to go close.
This novel had its wins, but the confused narrative put all those in the backseat. The mystery was watery at best, with only one thing happening to fuel it (the scan coming in through the post).
Expanding more on that, I also felt that the end was too good to be true. For a story so rooted in reality, the ending was almost fairy-tale-like, and that definitely doesn’t happen in real life.
My final thoughts?
I don’t know how to make up my mind on The New Girl – while it is a quick and easy read, it is also the kind of book I’d pick up only if I have nothing else to read. But me not being impressed with it doesn't mean you won't be, so give it a try!
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
#netgalley #arcreview
My unrestrained thoughts: Hm… Quite good. Hm… What is happening? Hm… I don’t understand where this is going. Hm… I see, this is how it ends. Okay…
Now, onto a little sophisticated review – it may contain tiny spoilers!
TW: Potential infidelity, marriage issues, past miscarriage, and potential infertility.
I have never read Alison Stockham’s novels before so whatever thoughts I have on her writing style or structure are restricted for The New Girl only. Its story goes like this – Anna and Jon seem to be flourishing together, they have a seemingly happy marriage and running a business. But their inability to conceive has driven a wedge between them, but they, like any other couple, sweep it under the rug.
But that wedge deepens when Jon butters up Anna to get a new intern to help them with the work. In comes Grace – a young girl half their age who is attractive and suspiciously close to Jon. Right from the start, warning bells ring in Anna’s head about Grace, further fuelled by her friend, Kate’s assumptions about Jon’s possible infidelity. The conflict comes to a head when a baby scan photo comes to Anna’s doorstep. Why is it important? 1. Because it taunts Anna on her well-kept secret about their inability to conceive. 2. The back of it reads Grace. *dramatic sound effect*
If you think you can imagine where this is going, you simply can’t! Because the reveal flips the script all over. There were certainly some parts that I loved, but I have to be honest here, even though the protagonist was relatable, I didn’t like her much. Anna lets her paranoia overtake her throughout the book, blowing things way out of proportion. As a result, most of the narrative circles round and round without getting to the point or even dropping any foreshadowing events.
Another point is that there is a pretty big religious aspect to the novel. I wasn’t expecting that and I immediately saw amazing potential in that angle… but that was also not handled properly. Unfortunately, all these (and other things) made the book a bit tedious for me to read.
What I liked about the book:
• The realistic portrayal of overthinking: The way Anna spiraled over her own assumptions was something I liked only because I found it totally relatable. She thinking the worst and taking a molehill and making a mountain of it… I know for a fact that’s exactly how overthinking works.
• Anna’s day-to-day life: Even if Anna was overthinking all the time, the author didn’t fail to show how Anna lived every day. Snippets of her home life, her workdays, and her church visits – all these painted a homely picture that I couldn’t help but like. It showed that Anna was a really jovial yet dedicated person, and I would have loved to see that more… but, oh well!
• Parts of the big reveal: I didn’t like the way the reveal was handled, but there were parts of it that I couldn’t help but appreciate. Firstly, the actual mystery – I simply wasn’t expecting that. It made my jaw drop and gave me some satisfaction after all those grueling chapters. And secondly,
What I wasn’t impressed with:
Imagine you want something and it’s right there in front of you. But for some reason, it seems to move away from you when you go closer to it. This book felt like that to me. It was truly capable of becoming one of the best mystery books with a slice-of-life twist (but it came across as the other way around)… I guess that goal moved away from the author when she tried to go close.
This novel had its wins, but the confused narrative put all those in the backseat. The mystery was watery at best, with only one thing happening to fuel it (the scan coming in through the post).
Expanding more on that, I also felt that the end was too good to be true. For a story so rooted in reality, the ending was almost fairy-tale-like, and that definitely doesn’t happen in real life.
My final thoughts?
I don’t know how to make up my mind on The New Girl – while it is a quick and easy read, it is also the kind of book I’d pick up only if I have nothing else to read. But me not being impressed with it doesn't mean you won't be, so give it a try!
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
#netgalley #arcreview
July 3, 2024
As I found with her first novel, this book is much more than a straightforward thriller - it's all about the psychological aspect, and we delve deep inside the protagonist, Anna's, complex mind. She's a fascinating character to spend time with as she's full of flaws - she longs for the stability and love that she was denied in childhood, but that same childhood has left her suspicious and distrustful, easily led to the wrong conclusion - all traits which make for some twisty garden paths as we follow her attempts to make sense of the strange appearance of a baby scan on her doormat. I really liked the way the scan, usually something to be celebrated, here becomes almost threatening - it is very clever.
I can't go into details about the plot, of course, because it's a thriller of twists and turns, but I will say there are a lot of aspects that feel very fresh. I think having a religious background for the characters adds a new dimension - there's a whole series of dilemmas that become heightened by the church's involvement. It adds that aspect of the whole community watching, which pours pressure onto an already tense situation.
For me, Anna is the main draw of this plot - she borders on unlikeable, and I am a big believer in the unlikeable female protagonist! And yet, as the story unfolds, we come to know and understand her so much better, and our sympathy for her transcends her sometimes erratic, often self-destructive, behaviour. She'll annoy you frequently, surprise you sometimes, and, occasionally, endear herself to you with her more vulnerable moments. It is a real experience getting to know her as a character.
As a writer, Alison Stockham never goes for the easy answer - she truly understands the messiness of being human, and this keeps her books full of tension and surprises. If you enjoyed her other work, this will continue to delight, and if you're new to her writing, well, then, like me, you've got some catching up to do! Book Four will be out soon, and I expect it will be another deliciously twisty dive into the glorious complexities of life!
I can't go into details about the plot, of course, because it's a thriller of twists and turns, but I will say there are a lot of aspects that feel very fresh. I think having a religious background for the characters adds a new dimension - there's a whole series of dilemmas that become heightened by the church's involvement. It adds that aspect of the whole community watching, which pours pressure onto an already tense situation.
For me, Anna is the main draw of this plot - she borders on unlikeable, and I am a big believer in the unlikeable female protagonist! And yet, as the story unfolds, we come to know and understand her so much better, and our sympathy for her transcends her sometimes erratic, often self-destructive, behaviour. She'll annoy you frequently, surprise you sometimes, and, occasionally, endear herself to you with her more vulnerable moments. It is a real experience getting to know her as a character.
As a writer, Alison Stockham never goes for the easy answer - she truly understands the messiness of being human, and this keeps her books full of tension and surprises. If you enjoyed her other work, this will continue to delight, and if you're new to her writing, well, then, like me, you've got some catching up to do! Book Four will be out soon, and I expect it will be another deliciously twisty dive into the glorious complexities of life!
May 23, 2025
Alison Stockham’s The New Girl is a gripping psychological thriller that delves deep into the complexities of trust, marriage, and personal trauma. Set against the backdrop of a small printing business and a close-knit religious community, the novel explores the unraveling of Anna and Jon’s seemingly stable life when a mysterious baby scan photo arrives, threatening to expose hidden secrets.  
Stockham masterfully crafts a narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth. Anna, the protagonist, is portrayed with raw vulnerability, her past traumas and longing for stability making her both relatable and, at times, frustratingly impulsive. The introduction of Grace, a young and enigmatic new employee, adds layers of tension, as Anna grapples with jealousy, suspicion, and the fear of betrayal. 
The novel’s strength lies in its intricate character development and the way it challenges readers to question perceptions and biases. The religious undertones and community dynamics further intensify the narrative, adding a unique dimension to the psychological turmoil experienced by the characters.
While the pacing is generally effective, there are moments where the story lingers, potentially testing the reader’s patience. Additionally, some plot twists, though impactful, may feel somewhat predictable to seasoned thriller enthusiasts. However, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story. 
In conclusion, The New Girl is a compelling read that offers a profound exploration of human emotions and the fragility of relationships. Stockham’s ability to weave suspense with emotional resonance makes this novel a standout in the domestic thriller genre.
Stockham masterfully crafts a narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth. Anna, the protagonist, is portrayed with raw vulnerability, her past traumas and longing for stability making her both relatable and, at times, frustratingly impulsive. The introduction of Grace, a young and enigmatic new employee, adds layers of tension, as Anna grapples with jealousy, suspicion, and the fear of betrayal. 
The novel’s strength lies in its intricate character development and the way it challenges readers to question perceptions and biases. The religious undertones and community dynamics further intensify the narrative, adding a unique dimension to the psychological turmoil experienced by the characters.
While the pacing is generally effective, there are moments where the story lingers, potentially testing the reader’s patience. Additionally, some plot twists, though impactful, may feel somewhat predictable to seasoned thriller enthusiasts. However, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story. 
In conclusion, The New Girl is a compelling read that offers a profound exploration of human emotions and the fragility of relationships. Stockham’s ability to weave suspense with emotional resonance makes this novel a standout in the domestic thriller genre.
March 5, 2024
Like many young couples, Anna and Jon are struggling - between managing their small business and Anna's thus far unfulfilled desire for a baby - to manage their day to day commitments. Unlike most young couples however, an unusual series of events is kicked off with the arrival of a baby scan through the letter box...
When Jon brings in Grace, a young woman who is a member of their church, to help out at the business, Anna is very unhappy with this decision. There is something about Grace that she does not trust.
But then again, there is something in Jon's behaviour that is also making Anna feel he is less than trustworthy. So, given that Anna has some secrets of her own to protect, there is a lot of secrecy and a fair bit of lying woven into this story, which inevitably leads to drama.
While the book deals with topics which can be sensitive - miscarriage, fertility issues, fears of infidelity etc - Stockham does a great job of managing these tricky issues with ease, and succeeds in holding the reader's interest throughout. More of a domestic drama than a thriller per se, this is worth checking out if you like reading about complicated relationship dynamics and emotional and ethical challenges.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
When Jon brings in Grace, a young woman who is a member of their church, to help out at the business, Anna is very unhappy with this decision. There is something about Grace that she does not trust.
But then again, there is something in Jon's behaviour that is also making Anna feel he is less than trustworthy. So, given that Anna has some secrets of her own to protect, there is a lot of secrecy and a fair bit of lying woven into this story, which inevitably leads to drama.
While the book deals with topics which can be sensitive - miscarriage, fertility issues, fears of infidelity etc - Stockham does a great job of managing these tricky issues with ease, and succeeds in holding the reader's interest throughout. More of a domestic drama than a thriller per se, this is worth checking out if you like reading about complicated relationship dynamics and emotional and ethical challenges.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
April 6, 2024
The New Girl by Alison Stockham
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
The letterbox clatters and sitting on the mat is a piece of paper, in black and white, with everything needed to blow Anna’s perfect life apart.
A baby scan photo.
Anna and Jon have been trying for a baby with no success, so after years of disappointment, this feels like a kick in the teeth.
Who sent it? And why?
Anna’s thoughts fall on Grace – the keen young woman Jon hired at their printing business. Something about Grace isn’t quite right. She asks too many questions and makes Anna nervous but she can’t work out why.
And she can’t deny she sees the way her husband looks at her.
All she knows is this baby scan might tear her marriage apart…
My Opinion
Anna and Jon have recently set up a new business and between the business and trying to start a family they are struggling. One of the solutions to this is to hire a new member of staff - Grace. When Jon hires Grace, Anna grows suspicious that there is something wrong. This book deals with some sensitive topics. This was my first book by Alison Stockham but I do already have my next one lined up. This was an enjoyable and relatable read.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
The letterbox clatters and sitting on the mat is a piece of paper, in black and white, with everything needed to blow Anna’s perfect life apart.
A baby scan photo.
Anna and Jon have been trying for a baby with no success, so after years of disappointment, this feels like a kick in the teeth.
Who sent it? And why?
Anna’s thoughts fall on Grace – the keen young woman Jon hired at their printing business. Something about Grace isn’t quite right. She asks too many questions and makes Anna nervous but she can’t work out why.
And she can’t deny she sees the way her husband looks at her.
All she knows is this baby scan might tear her marriage apart…
My Opinion
Anna and Jon have recently set up a new business and between the business and trying to start a family they are struggling. One of the solutions to this is to hire a new member of staff - Grace. When Jon hires Grace, Anna grows suspicious that there is something wrong. This book deals with some sensitive topics. This was my first book by Alison Stockham but I do already have my next one lined up. This was an enjoyable and relatable read.
Rating 4/5
September 26, 2024
Interesting read...
Perfectly adequate book but it's a slight stretch calling it a psychological thriller - there aren't many twists and turns apart from the big reveal and most of the jeopardy or drama is created by the protagonist and exacerbated by her own overreactions.
The book is well written and hard to put down but it did drag in places - mainly because the protagonist is distinctly unlikeable. It's made abundantly clear that she's had a rubbish childhood with awful parents but she makes odd decisions, overreacts, behaves strangely and is keeping a very significant secret/lie of her own which is almost unforgivable. I didn't like Anna as a character but she was compelling to read about to see what stupid thing she would do next.
The ending is all wrapped up neatly in a cute little bow, a bit too neatly to be realistic but I get that it would be pointless to keep it dragging on after the reveal. I just think in reality it would take a lot longer to process everything and there is the small matter of Anna's parents not been held to account.
Anyway overall a good read and I like the writing style - will definitely read more from the author
Perfectly adequate book but it's a slight stretch calling it a psychological thriller - there aren't many twists and turns apart from the big reveal and most of the jeopardy or drama is created by the protagonist and exacerbated by her own overreactions.
The book is well written and hard to put down but it did drag in places - mainly because the protagonist is distinctly unlikeable. It's made abundantly clear that she's had a rubbish childhood with awful parents but she makes odd decisions, overreacts, behaves strangely and is keeping a very significant secret/lie of her own which is almost unforgivable. I didn't like Anna as a character but she was compelling to read about to see what stupid thing she would do next.
The ending is all wrapped up neatly in a cute little bow, a bit too neatly to be realistic but I get that it would be pointless to keep it dragging on after the reveal. I just think in reality it would take a lot longer to process everything and there is the small matter of Anna's parents not been held to account.
Anyway overall a good read and I like the writing style - will definitely read more from the author
June 22, 2024
Thank you Netgalley, Boldwood Books and Alison Stockham for the eArc of The New Girl.
This is a twisty, psychological thriller which kept me on the edge of my seat and sent me off into red herring territory. I would say it's a slow burn, building the characters and dynamics of Anna and Jon, her husband. Anna has a secret, a heartbreaking one that she can't tell anyone. Even Jon doesn't know. In their printing business, they are joined by a new girl, Grace. Grace is everything they needed for the business. She learns quickly, capable and likeable. So why does Anna feel threatened? Soon, she finds Jon and Grace whispering/ shifty glances and confines in a friend that they maybe having an affair. Are they?
I feel that reading this at a deeper level, conveys how deep seated shame, the secrets we hold and the portrayal of what people feel is the right "thing to do " do us. How that can truly build walls and alter ourselves at such a deep level. I really bonded with Anna, Once the big reveal was out, I really felt for her and related ro what she had experienced. I'll definitely be picking up more of Alisons books up in the future.
4 stars
This is a twisty, psychological thriller which kept me on the edge of my seat and sent me off into red herring territory. I would say it's a slow burn, building the characters and dynamics of Anna and Jon, her husband. Anna has a secret, a heartbreaking one that she can't tell anyone. Even Jon doesn't know. In their printing business, they are joined by a new girl, Grace. Grace is everything they needed for the business. She learns quickly, capable and likeable. So why does Anna feel threatened? Soon, she finds Jon and Grace whispering/ shifty glances and confines in a friend that they maybe having an affair. Are they?
I feel that reading this at a deeper level, conveys how deep seated shame, the secrets we hold and the portrayal of what people feel is the right "thing to do " do us. How that can truly build walls and alter ourselves at such a deep level. I really bonded with Anna, Once the big reveal was out, I really felt for her and related ro what she had experienced. I'll definitely be picking up more of Alisons books up in the future.
4 stars
March 18, 2024
There comes a point in every workplace career when a newer, shinier, brighter version of yourself arrives. When this happens to Anna, an added complication is that she runs a business with her husband Jon and it’s him who decides to hire fresh-out-of-university Grace without consulting her.
Anna and Jon’s marriage is already under strain – they are trying to start a family. And when an envelope containing an ultrasound scan arrives through her letterbox, addressed to her, Anna can’t help wondering who is trying to send her a message – and what that message means.
The New Girl delves into the fragile truths that can save or destroy a marriage, deeply buried family secrets and the long shadow cast by a strict religious upbringing. The plot is inventive and twisty and I couldn’t stop reading it.
Anna and Jon’s marriage is already under strain – they are trying to start a family. And when an envelope containing an ultrasound scan arrives through her letterbox, addressed to her, Anna can’t help wondering who is trying to send her a message – and what that message means.
The New Girl delves into the fragile truths that can save or destroy a marriage, deeply buried family secrets and the long shadow cast by a strict religious upbringing. The plot is inventive and twisty and I couldn’t stop reading it.
March 20, 2024
I didn't really know what to expect from this book, as i haven't read anything by this author before. I really enjoyed it .
When a baby scan is posted through Anna and Jon's letterbox with a cryptic clue on the back, Anna is stunned as she hasnt told Jon she is still taking the contraceptive pill. Cracks in the marriage start to appear. When Grace starts to work at the printing business, Anna and Jon own she also attends the same church as jon . Grace has a flare for design, but all is not what it seems....... whispered conversations between Jon and Grace lead Anna to believe they are having an affair, Anna sets out to prove she is right, or has she been barking up the wrong tree? Great plot kept me guessing. Well written, I will definitely be looking for more of this authors book
When a baby scan is posted through Anna and Jon's letterbox with a cryptic clue on the back, Anna is stunned as she hasnt told Jon she is still taking the contraceptive pill. Cracks in the marriage start to appear. When Grace starts to work at the printing business, Anna and Jon own she also attends the same church as jon . Grace has a flare for design, but all is not what it seems....... whispered conversations between Jon and Grace lead Anna to believe they are having an affair, Anna sets out to prove she is right, or has she been barking up the wrong tree? Great plot kept me guessing. Well written, I will definitely be looking for more of this authors book
July 16, 2024
"The New Girl" by Alison Stockham had an intriguing premise but ultimately fell flat for me. The story, centered around a couple having problem to conceive a child and uncovering dark secrets, promised suspense but didn't deliver on the excitement. The pacing felt uneven, with long stretches of mundane details that didn't contribute much to the overall plot.
The characters lacked depth and were hard to connect with, making it difficult to care about their fates. The twists were predictable, and the narrative didn't offer much in terms of originality or surprise.
In my opinion, the novel had potential but failed to captivate. It's a disappointing read that left me wanting more substance and less predictability.
The characters lacked depth and were hard to connect with, making it difficult to care about their fates. The twists were predictable, and the narrative didn't offer much in terms of originality or surprise.
In my opinion, the novel had potential but failed to captivate. It's a disappointing read that left me wanting more substance and less predictability.
March 4, 2024
Anna and Jon own a small business. They have been trying to start a family for years, to no avail.
Jon meets a young girl at church, and employs her against Anna's wishes.
Anna receives a baby scan in the mail, andit is a mystery as to why and who sent it to her. Did they know her secret?
I am not sure I would class this as a thriller. It was intriguing with lots of mystery, secrets, lies and questions.
It was quite emotional in places.
I did expect more from the book, some of it dragged on a little too long for my taste.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this book.
Jon meets a young girl at church, and employs her against Anna's wishes.
Anna receives a baby scan in the mail, andit is a mystery as to why and who sent it to her. Did they know her secret?
I am not sure I would class this as a thriller. It was intriguing with lots of mystery, secrets, lies and questions.
It was quite emotional in places.
I did expect more from the book, some of it dragged on a little too long for my taste.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this book.
May 19, 2025
This book started great. I thought I would love it, but it goes a little downhill toward the middle of the book when things start being revealed. The last part of the book has too much dialogue. It's great for a movie but not a book. It could have been 30 to 50 pages shorter without all the dialogue.
I started off liking the main character despite her high anxiety and lack of self-awareness, but that went away when she started talking about everyone else lying. At the same time, she had a major lie that she somehow denied was a big lie.
It started so well, so I had to take stars off for the disappointing middle and end. 3.5 stars.
I started off liking the main character despite her high anxiety and lack of self-awareness, but that went away when she started talking about everyone else lying. At the same time, she had a major lie that she somehow denied was a big lie.
It started so well, so I had to take stars off for the disappointing middle and end. 3.5 stars.
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