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The Homeowner's Association: A Novel
"Verheyden showcases her talent as a storyteller by skillfully dropping in clues that keep readers guessing, with prose that is punchy and sometimes darkly humorous." - Kirkus Reviews
Three women. Two crimes. One Homeowner’s Association.
And a whole lot of secrets…
Holly Kent: president of the Homeowner’s Association, harasser of Valerie, all-around nuisance.
Valerie Park: nurse, widow, harassee of Holly.
Clementine Harrison: photographer, yoga teacher, free spirit, defender of harassed women.
After selling everything she owns and road tripping across Canada in a converted school bus named Matilda, Clementine moves next door to Valerie.
Valerie is depressed, scared, and lonely. And even though she doesn’t know it, she’s also the victim of a crime.
Clementine befriends Valerie and helps her find her voice, her courage, and an independence she never knew she possessed. Together they embark on a mission to dethrone Holly Kent, the tyrant of their neighbourhood who polices everything her neighbours do.
In the process they discover a few shocking secrets that make them question everything they thought they knew...
Three women. Two crimes. One Homeowner’s Association.
And a whole lot of secrets…
Holly Kent: president of the Homeowner’s Association, harasser of Valerie, all-around nuisance.
Valerie Park: nurse, widow, harassee of Holly.
Clementine Harrison: photographer, yoga teacher, free spirit, defender of harassed women.
After selling everything she owns and road tripping across Canada in a converted school bus named Matilda, Clementine moves next door to Valerie.
Valerie is depressed, scared, and lonely. And even though she doesn’t know it, she’s also the victim of a crime.
Clementine befriends Valerie and helps her find her voice, her courage, and an independence she never knew she possessed. Together they embark on a mission to dethrone Holly Kent, the tyrant of their neighbourhood who polices everything her neighbours do.
In the process they discover a few shocking secrets that make them question everything they thought they knew...
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2024
11 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Miriam Verheyden
5 books9 followersMiriam Verheyden is a Canadian non-fiction writer, novelist, x-ray technologist, and mental health advocate.
Known for her honesty and deep vulnerability, she writes books about love, fear, mental health, aging, and being a woman in the world.
Miriam was born and raised in Germany. During a solo trip at 22 to the wild west of Canada she fell in love with her husband, dropped everything at home and moved to British Columbia to be with him. 20+ years later they are still happily married, living on a ranch in the interior of BC.
She has written 4 books: Let's Pretend This is Normal recounts how travelling from Germany to Canada to heal from a broken heart changed her life: she fell in love with the country and a much older father of 4, dropped everything and moved halfway across the world to start over.
Her second book Quit the Hustle explores our society's unhealthy obsession with the hustle, and the danger of a culture that continually wants us to feel that we are not good enough.
In her third book Everything is Broken and Completely Fine she openly shares what it's like to live with mental illness, her history of self-medicating with alcohol, and her experience of being a healthcare worker during the pandemic.
Her latest book The Homeowner's Association is her first work of women's fiction. It's a story about female empowerment, friendship, starting over in middle age, and meeting small-mindedness with grace, humour, and kindness.
Known for her honesty and deep vulnerability, she writes books about love, fear, mental health, aging, and being a woman in the world.
Miriam was born and raised in Germany. During a solo trip at 22 to the wild west of Canada she fell in love with her husband, dropped everything at home and moved to British Columbia to be with him. 20+ years later they are still happily married, living on a ranch in the interior of BC.
She has written 4 books: Let's Pretend This is Normal recounts how travelling from Germany to Canada to heal from a broken heart changed her life: she fell in love with the country and a much older father of 4, dropped everything and moved halfway across the world to start over.
Her second book Quit the Hustle explores our society's unhealthy obsession with the hustle, and the danger of a culture that continually wants us to feel that we are not good enough.
In her third book Everything is Broken and Completely Fine she openly shares what it's like to live with mental illness, her history of self-medicating with alcohol, and her experience of being a healthcare worker during the pandemic.
Her latest book The Homeowner's Association is her first work of women's fiction. It's a story about female empowerment, friendship, starting over in middle age, and meeting small-mindedness with grace, humour, and kindness.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 8, 2024
This is a book about redemption and bringing justice against someone who has committed a crime, but it is also a book about community and friendship. We all need a village. The friendship between Clementine and Valerie is so endearing. Their distinctly different personalities represent the ying and yang in all of us. Clementine encourages Valerie to embrace herself and become the woman she always wanted to be. I highly recommend this book.
This book was provided by the publisher via HiddenGems in exchange for an honest review.
This book was provided by the publisher via HiddenGems in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2024
As someone who lives with a homeowner’s association, typically referred to as an HOA, author Miriam Verheyden does a spot-on portrayal of it. The multitude of individuals that comprise the neighborhood, and the natural inclination to gossip, combines for a rather entertaining read, despite its ever-unpleasant nearness to reality.
Holly Kent, HOA president, has nothing but time on her hands to focus on upholding the neighborhood covenants. When she founded the HOA thirty years ago the neighborhood wasn’t nearly as well kept and highly desired as it is now. She prides herself on her meticulous and rigid standards and secretly has her own ranking system for the entire neighborhood, of which she herself obviously holds first place.
Recently widowed, Valerie is scared to leave the four walls of her house for fear of Holly. That is until Clementine comes over to introduce herself. With her upbeat attitude, body positivity, and bold outlook on life, Clementine is easy to befriend. And, while readers are sure to adore Clementine and even the elderly Marjorie, we also can’t help but feel a bit of empathy for Holly and relatability to Valerie’s anxious plight.
The Ho Hos, short for Holly and her husband Homer, make living in Pleasant Hill anything but pleasant. Unbearable in their pursuit of upholding the neighborhood covenants, they’ve taken to bullying residents into compliance. But bullies must be stopped, and the newest resident, free spirited Clementine Harrison is determined to give them a taste of their own medicine – while complying just within the covenants, of course.
As Verheyden’s HOA nightmare unfolds readers begin to understand each of these women are victims. Victims of their gender, their careers, their past, or their present. As the nasty and bitter neighborhood theatrics play out, these women forge ahead, together. “The Homeowner’s Association” certainly contains thrilling psychological fiction, but it also houses honesty, vulnerability, and often uniquely female experiences. I related wholeheartedly with Valerie, Marjorie, Clementine, and even Holly, and none of the relatability had to do with my own, relatively boring, homeowner’s association experiences.
Miriam Verheyden pens an empowering work of fiction. Wrapped in drama and fear, readers find friendship, forgiveness, and even a new way to embrace their lawns.
Holly Kent, HOA president, has nothing but time on her hands to focus on upholding the neighborhood covenants. When she founded the HOA thirty years ago the neighborhood wasn’t nearly as well kept and highly desired as it is now. She prides herself on her meticulous and rigid standards and secretly has her own ranking system for the entire neighborhood, of which she herself obviously holds first place.
Recently widowed, Valerie is scared to leave the four walls of her house for fear of Holly. That is until Clementine comes over to introduce herself. With her upbeat attitude, body positivity, and bold outlook on life, Clementine is easy to befriend. And, while readers are sure to adore Clementine and even the elderly Marjorie, we also can’t help but feel a bit of empathy for Holly and relatability to Valerie’s anxious plight.
The Ho Hos, short for Holly and her husband Homer, make living in Pleasant Hill anything but pleasant. Unbearable in their pursuit of upholding the neighborhood covenants, they’ve taken to bullying residents into compliance. But bullies must be stopped, and the newest resident, free spirited Clementine Harrison is determined to give them a taste of their own medicine – while complying just within the covenants, of course.
As Verheyden’s HOA nightmare unfolds readers begin to understand each of these women are victims. Victims of their gender, their careers, their past, or their present. As the nasty and bitter neighborhood theatrics play out, these women forge ahead, together. “The Homeowner’s Association” certainly contains thrilling psychological fiction, but it also houses honesty, vulnerability, and often uniquely female experiences. I related wholeheartedly with Valerie, Marjorie, Clementine, and even Holly, and none of the relatability had to do with my own, relatively boring, homeowner’s association experiences.
Miriam Verheyden pens an empowering work of fiction. Wrapped in drama and fear, readers find friendship, forgiveness, and even a new way to embrace their lawns.
September 22, 2024
Holly cherished the close-knit community of Pleasant Hill, where each house reflected the residents' strong pride. As the esteemed president of the Homeowners Association, she wielded a level of influence that went unchallenged. Her metamorphosis from a reserved neighbor to a commanding presence stemmed from a tragic incident in her past, an enigma on the brink of resurfacing. What could this mysterious event be?
Upon arriving in Pleasant Hill, Clementine immediately felt a strong connection to the neighborhood and knew that it was where she wanted to put down roots. However, she soon discovered that the area held dark secrets. People had mysteriously vanished, leaving an atmosphere of fear and suspicion. Clementine became increasingly wary as she got to know the Homeowners Association president, Holly, and her husband, Homer. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was something deeply unsettling about them. Questions swirled in her mind: What were they hiding? Would she uncover the truth behind the disappearances? And why did she feel such unease around Homer? Additionally, she couldn't understand why Holly seemed intent on making everyone's lives miserable.
Fueled by unwavering determination, Clementine embarks on a perilous journey to unravel the enigmatic secrets shrouding Pleasant Hill. Her determination is not just fueled by curiosity, but also by a sense of justice and a desire to protect the community she has grown to love. Refusing to succumb to the treachery at play, she fearlessly confronts the daunting prospect of unearthing the hidden truths and navigating the lurking perils that await her.
Miriam Verheyden's novel is a gripping and suspenseful masterpiece, marked by an enthralling writing style that immediately captures the reader's attention and keeps them engrossed throughout. While the beginning may seem slow, the narrative gradually reveals itself, leading to a compelling and unforgettable ending. From my perspective, I thoroughly relished the book and am eagerly anticipating immersing myself in her other literary creations.
Upon arriving in Pleasant Hill, Clementine immediately felt a strong connection to the neighborhood and knew that it was where she wanted to put down roots. However, she soon discovered that the area held dark secrets. People had mysteriously vanished, leaving an atmosphere of fear and suspicion. Clementine became increasingly wary as she got to know the Homeowners Association president, Holly, and her husband, Homer. She couldn't shake the feeling that there was something deeply unsettling about them. Questions swirled in her mind: What were they hiding? Would she uncover the truth behind the disappearances? And why did she feel such unease around Homer? Additionally, she couldn't understand why Holly seemed intent on making everyone's lives miserable.
Fueled by unwavering determination, Clementine embarks on a perilous journey to unravel the enigmatic secrets shrouding Pleasant Hill. Her determination is not just fueled by curiosity, but also by a sense of justice and a desire to protect the community she has grown to love. Refusing to succumb to the treachery at play, she fearlessly confronts the daunting prospect of unearthing the hidden truths and navigating the lurking perils that await her.
Miriam Verheyden's novel is a gripping and suspenseful masterpiece, marked by an enthralling writing style that immediately captures the reader's attention and keeps them engrossed throughout. While the beginning may seem slow, the narrative gradually reveals itself, leading to a compelling and unforgettable ending. From my perspective, I thoroughly relished the book and am eagerly anticipating immersing myself in her other literary creations.
September 22, 2024
Home owners association by Miriam Verheyden, they have so many stereotypes in this book from homer and his wife being the bad guys to Val Jules and the rest being the good guys not to mention the whole thing with Homer and Jules seemed so unbelievable but I digress this book is really political with the stereo typical we’re quirky and different and except everyone good guys versus the staunch uptight bad guys ETC I was really into the book at first when they were setting up the HMO and I did feel bad for Miss Kirby even before I knew the whole story because I mean how judge mental can you get but I do have a question how could you not be able to afford to get your house painted when everyone in your house is using painting as a distraction? I know there is a difference between painting pictures for therapy but they also use work as therapy why not get the 10 people to paint the home. I know this is a minute point but I hate contradictions in a book. My only point is the book is interesting if you’re in to black and white stereo typical good versus bad where the bad is all bad and the good are traumatized misunderstood people#HiddenGems, #MiriamVerheyden, #HomeOwnersAssociation,
August 20, 2024
Read this in one afternoon. Well, I stopped reading at one point, to do my weekend chores, (like wiping my windowpanes on a sunny summer day) and realized a) I don't live in an HOA and b) how like all the Hollys of the world I am. Scrubbing and fixing things on the outside instead of working on my insides—like my personal narratives, connections with others, and how I want to be of service in the world. Miriam blends environmental advocacy, ageism, feminism, interior design, and the complexity of living this human life. I leave the pages intrigued by re-wilding and the promise of community.
September 19, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 (4/5)
What a thriller! This was my first ARC and it did not dissapoint! Three woman, Clementine, Valerie and Holly, live in Pleasant Hill, Summerfield. Holly is the president of the Homeowner's association and she is one of the most selfish, arrogant, mean character in the book! But her life is about to change and she doesn't know it yet! Clementine is the new neighbor who is about to change positively the life of Valerie and many other woman in Pleasanr Hill. Valerie is a lonely widow until Clementine comes along and push her through her cocoon. The three of them are gonna experience grief, anger and so much more together as the ever suspect to.
What a thriller! This was my first ARC and it did not dissapoint! Three woman, Clementine, Valerie and Holly, live in Pleasant Hill, Summerfield. Holly is the president of the Homeowner's association and she is one of the most selfish, arrogant, mean character in the book! But her life is about to change and she doesn't know it yet! Clementine is the new neighbor who is about to change positively the life of Valerie and many other woman in Pleasanr Hill. Valerie is a lonely widow until Clementine comes along and push her through her cocoon. The three of them are gonna experience grief, anger and so much more together as the ever suspect to.
September 12, 2024
Mystery🔎
Drama🎬
Twists & Secrets🤫
Heart-warming Friendships🤝
All the feels🥰
Community spirit👥
Third Person POV✔✔✔✔✔
Three women.
Two crimes.
One Homeowner’s Association.
And a whole lot of secrets…
Miriam Verheyden's ' The Homeowners Association' truly lives up to its blurb and did not disappoint! THOA is an engagingly captivating blend of drama and mystery from start to finish. Combined with the third person perspective that allows you to fully immerse yourself within the pages and filled with secrets & twists it adds a layer of suspense that suck you in further.
Drama🎬
Twists & Secrets🤫
Heart-warming Friendships🤝
All the feels🥰
Community spirit👥
Third Person POV✔✔✔✔✔
Three women.
Two crimes.
One Homeowner’s Association.
And a whole lot of secrets…
Miriam Verheyden's ' The Homeowners Association' truly lives up to its blurb and did not disappoint! THOA is an engagingly captivating blend of drama and mystery from start to finish. Combined with the third person perspective that allows you to fully immerse yourself within the pages and filled with secrets & twists it adds a layer of suspense that suck you in further.
September 14, 2024
The Homeowner's Association by Miriam Verheyden was great. I had a hard time putting it down. The author did a great job pulling me into the story. There times that I was laughing and angry. I highly recommend reading the book you will be glad you did. This is the first book from the author and I look forward to reading more.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2024
This book started out with a lot of promise. Women in their fifties (and beyond) rediscovering themselves as independent women rather than knowing themselves as strictly wives and mothers. Unfortunately, the story very quickly devolved into a left-wing vs right-wing social war which centered around an HOA. The writer makes it very obvious that left-wing are the "good guys", right-wing are "evil".
Every social cliche that has been passed around on SM in recent years was touched on in this story: lgbtqia+, check. Evil white man, check. "Karens", check. Climate change deniers, check. Horrific HOA presidents, check. Emotional support animals, check. Victimhood, check. Racism, check. Even the buzzwords have been used multiple times: pansexual, #metoo, patriarchy. All of these things overshadow what could have been an amazing story of personal growth, personal discovery, triumph over adversity and being victimized and friendship amongst women of all ages.
Now for the good news. The characters are refreshing. The heroine is a unique woman in her 50s with an individual style in dress and appearance if not social and political views. The story moves at a good pace. The descriptions are detailed enough the reader can easily imagine the scenes, without the author being verbose and distracting.
If you're an SJW, you'll probably really enjoy this book. If you read to escape reality, you'll most likely find yourself annoyed.
Every social cliche that has been passed around on SM in recent years was touched on in this story: lgbtqia+, check. Evil white man, check. "Karens", check. Climate change deniers, check. Horrific HOA presidents, check. Emotional support animals, check. Victimhood, check. Racism, check. Even the buzzwords have been used multiple times: pansexual, #metoo, patriarchy. All of these things overshadow what could have been an amazing story of personal growth, personal discovery, triumph over adversity and being victimized and friendship amongst women of all ages.
Now for the good news. The characters are refreshing. The heroine is a unique woman in her 50s with an individual style in dress and appearance if not social and political views. The story moves at a good pace. The descriptions are detailed enough the reader can easily imagine the scenes, without the author being verbose and distracting.
If you're an SJW, you'll probably really enjoy this book. If you read to escape reality, you'll most likely find yourself annoyed.
September 25, 2024
Summerfield is the most desirable place to live, according to the local realtors, but something sinister is afoot in this lovely little HOA governed community! In this delightful mystery, three middle aged women, one a life-long introvert with self-esteem issues, one an overweight hippy and the third a geriatric with a broken hip, team up to take on the Ho hos, a power couple whose power has long gone to their heads. The author's take on society's expectations for women of a certain age, are at times hilarious, and at others filled with the authors own wisdom borne of work in the mental health field. A delightful read. You'll love the ending and wish for more.
September 4, 2024
One woman is trying to make ruin another life hell. There are 2 crimes and one does not know she is a victim of a crime. Someone else will try to help make her react better and become much stronger. How will it all go? What will happen next? Will it all become much better for her? See how she gets on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
September 5, 2024
Not even going to lie, it took me a couple of chapters to get into this book, but once I did, I found vibrant real characters with enough backstory to understand them and their thought processes. Yes, even the antagonist(s) were very real and very relatable. This book had me giggling, crying, feeling mad, proud, a whole gamut of emotions. I would highly recommend this one to everyone.
October 1, 2024
This was a good story and had an interesting story line. I loved Clem! She is so quirky and fun and the confidence in herself is refreshing. Valerie's growth was so nice to watch. I did find myself skimming through a lot of her dialogue as it became a bit repetitive to me. Holly was so complex and she will definitely give you mixed feelings.
August 19, 2024
I could not put this book down, it was so engaging! A cross-section of the whole human experience from murder to love and everything in between. I found myself nodding along, smiling, getting angry, and just being fully immersed in the story. Highly recommend!
September 2, 2024
This book evoke every emotion in a wonderful and personal way.It has given me a much better outlook on my live and how to be myself instead of what the blueprint of woman should be. I cannot wait to read more of this authors works.
December 22, 2024
So good! Compelling story, great depth of characters, and inspiring without being preachy. As a reader of Miriam's blog and other books, I can see where she got her inspiration. It really would be a great novel for book club discussions as it handles some tough issues with compassion.
December 29, 2024
Easy to read
Relatable characters and a good storyline. I enjoyed reading this book over the summer holidays and will look for more of this authors books.
Relatable characters and a good storyline. I enjoyed reading this book over the summer holidays and will look for more of this authors books.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews