What do you think?
Rate this book
The Forever Home
It’s our fresh new start. If we live to enjoy it…
I can’t contain my smile as we open the white screen door and step into our new home. Building a life with my amazing new husband Archie in this historic farmhouse is my dream come true. This is where we’ll grow old together, and where I can finally forget about my past. Or is it?
First, it’s a light left on in the attic, and music playing when no one is home. Next, a faded photograph of me on a hazy summer day long ago, delivered in an unmarked envelope. After years of running, someone has finally found me. My new home, our safe haven, has been threatened.
The question now is, what am I going to do to protect it?
A completely unputdownable psychological thriller that will have you gripped until the final breathless twist. Filled with chilling revelations and pulse-pounding suspense, The Forever Home is perfect for fans of The Perfect Marriage, Freida McFadden and Nicola Sanders.
I can’t contain my smile as we open the white screen door and step into our new home. Building a life with my amazing new husband Archie in this historic farmhouse is my dream come true. This is where we’ll grow old together, and where I can finally forget about my past. Or is it?
First, it’s a light left on in the attic, and music playing when no one is home. Next, a faded photograph of me on a hazy summer day long ago, delivered in an unmarked envelope. After years of running, someone has finally found me. My new home, our safe haven, has been threatened.
The question now is, what am I going to do to protect it?
A completely unputdownable psychological thriller that will have you gripped until the final breathless twist. Filled with chilling revelations and pulse-pounding suspense, The Forever Home is perfect for fans of The Perfect Marriage, Freida McFadden and Nicola Sanders.
274 pages, Paperback
Published June 24, 2024
351 people are currently reading
486 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
July 12, 2024
Aimee and Archie are moving out of the city and into the countryside, where they can relax, grow their own food, and enjoy the large property they were able to buy after the death of Aimee’s aunt. Archie will be teaching at the local elementary school, and Aimee has decided to open a small market, selling local items and the produce she grows at home. It’s a pretty idyllic situation; at least, it seemed to be.
As soon as they get to their new house, they find out their realtor, Angela, was murdered two days prior. Then Aimee has the feeling someone has been in their house. They thought they were moving to a safe, quiet area, but the murder has them on edge…but then they meet more people in town who assure them of their safety, and settle in. Aimee becomes quick friends with Robin, a teacher Archie works with, and Archie made a friend with John, a local farmer who gives Aimee the creeps.
This is all only half of the story - the other half is set in 2016, when Aimee (then named Sunny) lived in a commune with her boyfriend, Dream. He was the love of her life, but the commune’s views on polyamory were different from hers, and soon Dream cheated on her. She fled Listening Lark and started a new life, and a new relationship. I can’t say she never looked back, though…
For most of this book, I was trying to figure out what Aimee’s past and present had to do with each other. I felt like the constant switching between the chapters made the book less cohesive. I was enjoying both stories, but as the book went on, I was getting annoyed at not being able to find the tie between the two. Then finally, the ending put everything together, and it was pretty shocking, including the mind-blowing epilogue.
I was torn with this one. I’d say the first 75-80% of the book was good, but disjointed. Then the ending knocked it out of the park - it’s actually one of the better endings I’ve read in a while. This book was a solid 3.5, which I was going to round down, but that ending has me rounding up instead. I wish this book had been laid out differently, but it all ended perfectly.
(Thank you to Storm Publishing, Sally Royer-Derr and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on July 16, 2024.)
As soon as they get to their new house, they find out their realtor, Angela, was murdered two days prior. Then Aimee has the feeling someone has been in their house. They thought they were moving to a safe, quiet area, but the murder has them on edge…but then they meet more people in town who assure them of their safety, and settle in. Aimee becomes quick friends with Robin, a teacher Archie works with, and Archie made a friend with John, a local farmer who gives Aimee the creeps.
This is all only half of the story - the other half is set in 2016, when Aimee (then named Sunny) lived in a commune with her boyfriend, Dream. He was the love of her life, but the commune’s views on polyamory were different from hers, and soon Dream cheated on her. She fled Listening Lark and started a new life, and a new relationship. I can’t say she never looked back, though…
For most of this book, I was trying to figure out what Aimee’s past and present had to do with each other. I felt like the constant switching between the chapters made the book less cohesive. I was enjoying both stories, but as the book went on, I was getting annoyed at not being able to find the tie between the two. Then finally, the ending put everything together, and it was pretty shocking, including the mind-blowing epilogue.
I was torn with this one. I’d say the first 75-80% of the book was good, but disjointed. Then the ending knocked it out of the park - it’s actually one of the better endings I’ve read in a while. This book was a solid 3.5, which I was going to round down, but that ending has me rounding up instead. I wish this book had been laid out differently, but it all ended perfectly.
(Thank you to Storm Publishing, Sally Royer-Derr and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on July 16, 2024.)
June 28, 2024
The Forever Home by Sally Royer-Derr is a twisty psychological thriller immersed in two time lines that will keep you guessing and leave you utterly shocked.
Aimee and Archie move from the city to the countryside to start a new life in their forever home, a farmhouse where they can cultivate their own food and grow old together. But immediately they are left to question the safety of their new town upon finding out their realtor was murdered. And when an old photograph shows up tying her to her hidden past Aimee's future is threatened. Who has found her and what do they know?
This fast paced dual time lines will keep you guessing to the end, if you love a good, twisty, psychological thriller this one is a solid read.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Aimee and Archie move from the city to the countryside to start a new life in their forever home, a farmhouse where they can cultivate their own food and grow old together. But immediately they are left to question the safety of their new town upon finding out their realtor was murdered. And when an old photograph shows up tying her to her hidden past Aimee's future is threatened. Who has found her and what do they know?
This fast paced dual time lines will keep you guessing to the end, if you love a good, twisty, psychological thriller this one is a solid read.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 7, 2025
I can say for certain that I really enjoyed this book. It's a trope that I haven't come across a lot and it made it very unique. Sally's writing really appealed to me, it was simple and fast paced which I love.
There's not much I can say about the plot without giving it away, but it sure is one fun ride. We follow two timelines. One being Aimee's past and one being the present. All the characters are easy to follow.
There's more and more hints within each chapter, so it's almost like dangling a carrot in front of a rabbit and leading it where you want it. Sally used her creativity to keep the pages turning, but didn't reveal too much until it was appropriate. I think this book was very well written and deserves praise. I definitely recommend it to lovers of psychological thrillers.
** Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Sally Royer-Derr for the eARC. I really enjoyed it and I'm very grateful! **
There's not much I can say about the plot without giving it away, but it sure is one fun ride. We follow two timelines. One being Aimee's past and one being the present. All the characters are easy to follow.
There's more and more hints within each chapter, so it's almost like dangling a carrot in front of a rabbit and leading it where you want it. Sally used her creativity to keep the pages turning, but didn't reveal too much until it was appropriate. I think this book was very well written and deserves praise. I definitely recommend it to lovers of psychological thrillers.
** Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Sally Royer-Derr for the eARC. I really enjoyed it and I'm very grateful! **
July 12, 2024
Aimee and Archie have been married for a year after a whirlwind romance. Aimee has recently come into a big inheritance from her aunt, so they purchase a small farm in a little town. This is to be their forever home. However, Aimee has a past- she was in a cult 11 years ago. Archie does not know this about her. "Gifts", notes, and different things keep happening to her in her home. Is this her past catching up to her?
The description really caught my attention. However, I had difficulty liking or connecting to most characters. Aimee seems awful from the opening page. She describes she and Archie as "the golden couple", explains that she is demanding and wants everything to be specific to her liking. When she meets the neighbor who brings baked goods to welcome then, Aimee thinks, "Wow, she really doesn't know when to stop" (this was in reference to Robin asking questions and telling Aimee that she teaches at the school Archie will be teaching at).
Archie seemed ok at first, but when Aimee is telling him about things that are happening, and that his new friend Johnny "gives her the creeps", he dismisses her feelings and continues the friendship- even inviting Johnny to Thanksgiving dinner. And Archie and Aimee know nothing about each other- I mean zero! That was a hard thing for me to swallow- most people when they begin a relationship share a lot! I mean even con artists and creeps make up a backstory!
the story is also told between multiple POV's, and there were times when this got confusing. There is also a lot of repetition of thoughts and descriptions. At the last half of the book, Aimee rambles a lot, and so the story dragged.
The ending of the story was rushed and very contrived. There was no build up to one of the characters that was critical in the end scene, and the explanation of why they were there, what motivated them to help the other character. It felt like the author was trying to make a connection for his motives at the last minute.
I encourage you to read other reviews, as this is my personal experience and thoughts on this book but many other reviewers really loved it!
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC. This is my voluntary, honest review.
The description really caught my attention. However, I had difficulty liking or connecting to most characters. Aimee seems awful from the opening page. She describes she and Archie as "the golden couple", explains that she is demanding and wants everything to be specific to her liking. When she meets the neighbor who brings baked goods to welcome then, Aimee thinks, "Wow, she really doesn't know when to stop" (this was in reference to Robin asking questions and telling Aimee that she teaches at the school Archie will be teaching at).
Archie seemed ok at first, but when Aimee is telling him about things that are happening, and that his new friend Johnny "gives her the creeps", he dismisses her feelings and continues the friendship- even inviting Johnny to Thanksgiving dinner. And Archie and Aimee know nothing about each other- I mean zero! That was a hard thing for me to swallow- most people when they begin a relationship share a lot! I mean even con artists and creeps make up a backstory!
the story is also told between multiple POV's, and there were times when this got confusing. There is also a lot of repetition of thoughts and descriptions. At the last half of the book, Aimee rambles a lot, and so the story dragged.
The ending of the story was rushed and very contrived. There was no build up to one of the characters that was critical in the end scene, and the explanation of why they were there, what motivated them to help the other character. It felt like the author was trying to make a connection for his motives at the last minute.
I encourage you to read other reviews, as this is my personal experience and thoughts on this book but many other reviewers really loved it!
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC. This is my voluntary, honest review.
June 8, 2024
Aimee and Archie have moved into their dreamhouse – an historic farmhouse where she hopes they will grow old together. Then, when strange things start happening, Aimee wonders if her past is catching up to her. Can she protect her new life?
The Forever Home alternates between the present and several years back when Aimee was a member of commune and her then friends.
What a wild ride – twists and turns and more. Lots of double crossings, surprises, and the ending was shocking. Couldn’t put it down, and I highly recommend this one!
The Forever Home alternates between the present and several years back when Aimee was a member of commune and her then friends.
What a wild ride – twists and turns and more. Lots of double crossings, surprises, and the ending was shocking. Couldn’t put it down, and I highly recommend this one!
June 13, 2024
My Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Twisty Cinematic Stars !!
Ok I can finally breath now !! The Forever Home is a slow burn that tugs the reader along right to the bitter end with twist after twist , to the point I felt like a clown trying to juggle all these curves being thrown at me !!
" I didn't hear anything, but something nipped at me, and uneasy feeling I was unable to shake off. I scanned the room again, plucking a large knife out of the block on the kitchen counter. Was someone here ? Inside the house? "
Read this if you like:
* Dual POV's
* Alternating Timelines
* Slow Burn suspense
* Twisty Whacky Endings
* Little Town Settings
* Quick reads with short chapters
The Forever Home is my first read by this author and I have to admit I was nervous at first , but I was pleasantly surprised and will be reading more by this author !!
Everyone has a past ! Every one has secrets ! Every one has a motive ! The real question is what are you willing to do protect those secrets and do you really know your loved ones??
Aimee and Archie have just bought a new house on a beautiful farm where they are about to start their life together , it could not be any more perfect !! ....oh oh until strange things keep happening to Aimee , things that know one should know about but her , and she can't figure out who or what is haunting her from her past !!
The problem is she doesn't dare tell her sweet loving gorgeous husband about it , she wouldn't want to worry him. As the author strings us along the book gives off a cinematic feeling , like you have a snow globe in your hands and you are looking inside watching everything that is happening to Aimee, but you can't see who is doing it and you're just patiently or impatiently (lol) waiting for the reveal ...and I tell you I was shocked , like I was way out in left field on this one!
The last 20% of this book was so wild , I had to buckle my seat belt because so much was coming at me , yes it may seem a bit rushed and a bit dramatic , but I was hanging on for dear life and enjoying every minute of it !!
I really think fans of Anna Downes , Megan Miranda and Alice Feeney will really be addicted t this one !
Thank you so much Netgalley, Storm Publishing and Sally Royer-Derr for this fun digital ARC!
Respectfully Another Read by Angie
Ok I can finally breath now !! The Forever Home is a slow burn that tugs the reader along right to the bitter end with twist after twist , to the point I felt like a clown trying to juggle all these curves being thrown at me !!
" I didn't hear anything, but something nipped at me, and uneasy feeling I was unable to shake off. I scanned the room again, plucking a large knife out of the block on the kitchen counter. Was someone here ? Inside the house? "
Read this if you like:
* Dual POV's
* Alternating Timelines
* Slow Burn suspense
* Twisty Whacky Endings
* Little Town Settings
* Quick reads with short chapters
The Forever Home is my first read by this author and I have to admit I was nervous at first , but I was pleasantly surprised and will be reading more by this author !!
Everyone has a past ! Every one has secrets ! Every one has a motive ! The real question is what are you willing to do protect those secrets and do you really know your loved ones??
Aimee and Archie have just bought a new house on a beautiful farm where they are about to start their life together , it could not be any more perfect !! ....oh oh until strange things keep happening to Aimee , things that know one should know about but her , and she can't figure out who or what is haunting her from her past !!
The problem is she doesn't dare tell her sweet loving gorgeous husband about it , she wouldn't want to worry him. As the author strings us along the book gives off a cinematic feeling , like you have a snow globe in your hands and you are looking inside watching everything that is happening to Aimee, but you can't see who is doing it and you're just patiently or impatiently (lol) waiting for the reveal ...and I tell you I was shocked , like I was way out in left field on this one!
The last 20% of this book was so wild , I had to buckle my seat belt because so much was coming at me , yes it may seem a bit rushed and a bit dramatic , but I was hanging on for dear life and enjoying every minute of it !!
I really think fans of Anna Downes , Megan Miranda and Alice Feeney will really be addicted t this one !
Thank you so much Netgalley, Storm Publishing and Sally Royer-Derr for this fun digital ARC!
Respectfully Another Read by Angie
June 12, 2024
The Forever Home by Sally Rover-Derr
Release Date: 16 July 2024
Rating: 4/5
Aimee and Archie embark on a new chapter in their dream home, a picturesque historic farmhouse where they hope to spend their days together. Yet, as strange occurrences unsettle their idyllic life, Aimee is haunted by the possibility that her past is catching up with her. "The Forever Home" takes readers on a gripping journey, alternating between Aimee's present struggles and her past life in a commune with her former friends.
This rollercoaster of a novel captivates with its twists and turns, urging readers to devour its pages with breathless anticipation. With a cinematic writing style, "The Forever Home" delivers surprises, betrayals, and an ending that leaves jaws dropping. Prepare for a thrilling ride that will linger long after the final page is turned.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and the author, Sally Royer-Derr, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Release Date: 16 July 2024
Rating: 4/5
Aimee and Archie embark on a new chapter in their dream home, a picturesque historic farmhouse where they hope to spend their days together. Yet, as strange occurrences unsettle their idyllic life, Aimee is haunted by the possibility that her past is catching up with her. "The Forever Home" takes readers on a gripping journey, alternating between Aimee's present struggles and her past life in a commune with her former friends.
This rollercoaster of a novel captivates with its twists and turns, urging readers to devour its pages with breathless anticipation. With a cinematic writing style, "The Forever Home" delivers surprises, betrayals, and an ending that leaves jaws dropping. Prepare for a thrilling ride that will linger long after the final page is turned.
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and the author, Sally Royer-Derr, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
July 17, 2024
2023 - Aimee and Archie , the newlyweds buy their dream home, a farmhouse with acres of land in a quaint town in Pennsylvania. New jobs, new beginnings and hopes of utter bliss, until strange occurrences begin to happen which Aimee is convinced is connected to her past.
2016 - Aimee was known as Sunshine Lotus (sunny) living in a commune, a utopia of sorts known as Listening Lark.
As the chapters flip between both times we learn Aimee is trying to hide something or from someone and we question why her past has been kept such a big secret.
A definite page turner, a little bit creepy and with a lust for uncovering what is bringing the past to the present I read this in one sitting. We’ve got some characters that play pivotal roles in the story and bring it all together to a great ending.
Many thanks to NetGalley, publisher and author for my eARC
2016 - Aimee was known as Sunshine Lotus (sunny) living in a commune, a utopia of sorts known as Listening Lark.
As the chapters flip between both times we learn Aimee is trying to hide something or from someone and we question why her past has been kept such a big secret.
A definite page turner, a little bit creepy and with a lust for uncovering what is bringing the past to the present I read this in one sitting. We’ve got some characters that play pivotal roles in the story and bring it all together to a great ending.
Many thanks to NetGalley, publisher and author for my eARC
June 18, 2024
This was a solid 4 star read for me and had everything I like in a good psychological thriller.
Told from dual POV over duel timelines, the story follows Aimee in present time and Dream her ex love from the past.
Aimee has the perfect life. A husband who loves her, a new home, a business. Aimee also has a lot of secrets. Her past begins to show up in her present life and that is just the beginning.
This book was fast paced, had several twists and a great ending.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and revise this ARC.
Told from dual POV over duel timelines, the story follows Aimee in present time and Dream her ex love from the past.
Aimee has the perfect life. A husband who loves her, a new home, a business. Aimee also has a lot of secrets. Her past begins to show up in her present life and that is just the beginning.
This book was fast paced, had several twists and a great ending.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and revise this ARC.
July 17, 2024
This book started off good , some of the back and forth on the timelines was not necessary. Toward the end it just got to be a little too out there, like trying to hard to make some of the twists in the book. I’m not sure but it just didn’t sit well with me. Overall it’s not a bad book , a fun quick read.
June 21, 2024
The Forever Home
By: Sally Royer-Derr
4 Stars
When Aimee and her husband Archie move to a little country town, she believes her life is finally changing for the better. When small things begin happening to her, she knows her past has come back to haunt her. No one knows her true past. The truth will rock her happy life to its very core.
Wow. This a fast-paced book that keeps you guessing and keeps you wanting more. The characters are likable and easy to follow with the way the book was laid out. The drama is well spread throughout the story and kept me enthralled. This story is not your normal thriller. Many can be predictable. I found a new shock around every corner. It was never predictable. I love a good book that keeps you turning the pages. It was a well written and captivating story that shows you can never really know people.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Review
By: Sally Royer-Derr
4 Stars
When Aimee and her husband Archie move to a little country town, she believes her life is finally changing for the better. When small things begin happening to her, she knows her past has come back to haunt her. No one knows her true past. The truth will rock her happy life to its very core.
Wow. This a fast-paced book that keeps you guessing and keeps you wanting more. The characters are likable and easy to follow with the way the book was laid out. The drama is well spread throughout the story and kept me enthralled. This story is not your normal thriller. Many can be predictable. I found a new shock around every corner. It was never predictable. I love a good book that keeps you turning the pages. It was a well written and captivating story that shows you can never really know people.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Review
July 12, 2024
What an unexpected ending!
Set primarily on the East Coast, Aimee and Archie leave the big city life and move to the country to her ideal home along with enough acreage to run a small farm. Upon arrival, they learn their realtor had just been murdered! This small rural town is shaken by this act of violence. Aimee keeps having a sense that something's not right - someone is watching, been in their home, moving things, etc. But this is the present day timeline.
The other timeline is from several years prior, where Aimee led a completely different life in a commune in what's described similarly to the Hollywood hills. There's a bit of a Manson Family vibe to this part of the story, though not in a sinister way.
Tough to review without spoiling things, or even hinting, but I can absolutely say that I did NOT see this ending coming whatsoever. Wild doesn't even begin to describe it. I stayed up far too late to finish this one!
Thanks to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Sally Royer-Derr for the eARC.
Set primarily on the East Coast, Aimee and Archie leave the big city life and move to the country to her ideal home along with enough acreage to run a small farm. Upon arrival, they learn their realtor had just been murdered! This small rural town is shaken by this act of violence. Aimee keeps having a sense that something's not right - someone is watching, been in their home, moving things, etc. But this is the present day timeline.
The other timeline is from several years prior, where Aimee led a completely different life in a commune in what's described similarly to the Hollywood hills. There's a bit of a Manson Family vibe to this part of the story, though not in a sinister way.
Tough to review without spoiling things, or even hinting, but I can absolutely say that I did NOT see this ending coming whatsoever. Wild doesn't even begin to describe it. I stayed up far too late to finish this one!
Thanks to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Sally Royer-Derr for the eARC.
June 17, 2024
Fast paced, quick read. The authors writing style had me hooked from the first page, and I was able to read through in an afternoon. Interesting storyline, and something I haven’t read in a psychological thriller before. The story takes place in the past and present, alternating between different characters story telling, but is easy to follow along.
Aimee and her husband, Archie, move to a small country town after she receives an inheritance. Their house is idyllic. They have land to grow vegetables and raise chickens, all part of the bigger plan to open a store selling her baked goods and produce. They are the perfect couple living their perfect life. Aimee’s kept her past a secret, but when it comes back to haunt her, how far will she go to keep the past where it belongs?
Aimee and her husband, Archie, move to a small country town after she receives an inheritance. Their house is idyllic. They have land to grow vegetables and raise chickens, all part of the bigger plan to open a store selling her baked goods and produce. They are the perfect couple living their perfect life. Aimee’s kept her past a secret, but when it comes back to haunt her, how far will she go to keep the past where it belongs?
June 15, 2024
Aimee has finally found happiness and marries Archie she sells her aunts home and buys her dream home a farm. but the day they move in they find out the lady who worked at the agents who sold them the house has been murdered a bit of a shock for them. Aimee loves her new home and find the shop she wants to sell her products and then thing start to happen. Aimee is wondering if its someone from her past a very addictive read,
June 16, 2024
I enjoyed this one. It had me on my toes. There were several twists I didn’t see coming. I definitely didn’t expect the ending. It was an easy read and I really enjoyed it. Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC!
June 11, 2024
I read this book in one day. This is a tense, twisty thriller, but also so vibrant and sensual in parts. I highly recommend this one !!
Read
July 16, 2024The Forever Home by Sally Royer Dare, The story is told with two different POV‘s one is Amy and the other is dream Amy lives in Philadelphia with her husband Archie they’ve been married a year and she is totally enamored and in love with her husband they’ve just moved to their new farm house which is marred by the murder of their realtor but her murder is just the first of mini strange events that happen. Archies new friend John gives Amy the heebie-jeebies something he professes he doesn’t see John being strange but many other people in town do. Then Amy started receiving Momentos that only her ex could know about The other POV is from dream a cult member in California who is in love with his girlfriend Sunny but secrets they have from their past is on track to ruin their future and win the two POV‘s in a roundabout way cross it turns into a murderous event. I really enjoyed this book from the beginning to the end it was a totally great read. I cannot think of anything bad about this thriller each POV move the story along in a quick fashion and although certain people seem like someone you can root for in the end no matter who you pick you will be rethinking it. In any event this is still a great reading one I definitely recommend I have read another book by this author that I really enjoyed but I must say this one was much better. A totally great read! I want to thang NetGalley and the publisher for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
July 11, 2024
I honestly don't know how to rate or review this book. It's hard to say anything without spoilers. But, here goes:
Brief synopsis: 2 timelines.
The first is in the present where a young couple buy a country home because she loves nature and wants to open a store with fresh products.
The second timeline is about 8 years earlier where the same woman lives in a commune. It was very hard to figure out how the second would become relevant to the first. But, of course, it does.
The first 75% of the story was just ok. The reader gets insight into both lifestyles of the female character. She wasn't particularly likeable in either timeline. Nor, were the men she was involved with. The storylines just sort of meandered along. So far we have a mediocre, aimless story with boring characters. There are a few hints that the past would come back to haunt the present.
Then, the twists started!!! Often the reader has an idea where things are headed. Not this time, not this reader. Huge twists, that just didn't stop. Shocking! I truly had no idea what the reality would turn out to be. One twist after another. And a lot of casualties along the way.
So, I have to give 2 ratings. One for the first 75%, one for the last 25%. 3 stars for the first (it wasn't terrible, just not great) but definitely 5 stars for the last. Any storyline that can shock and surprise me this much deserves that. The final rating is 4 stars.
And, I love the cover!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
Brief synopsis: 2 timelines.
The first is in the present where a young couple buy a country home because she loves nature and wants to open a store with fresh products.
The second timeline is about 8 years earlier where the same woman lives in a commune. It was very hard to figure out how the second would become relevant to the first. But, of course, it does.
The first 75% of the story was just ok. The reader gets insight into both lifestyles of the female character. She wasn't particularly likeable in either timeline. Nor, were the men she was involved with. The storylines just sort of meandered along. So far we have a mediocre, aimless story with boring characters. There are a few hints that the past would come back to haunt the present.
Then, the twists started!!! Often the reader has an idea where things are headed. Not this time, not this reader. Huge twists, that just didn't stop. Shocking! I truly had no idea what the reality would turn out to be. One twist after another. And a lot of casualties along the way.
So, I have to give 2 ratings. One for the first 75%, one for the last 25%. 3 stars for the first (it wasn't terrible, just not great) but definitely 5 stars for the last. Any storyline that can shock and surprise me this much deserves that. The final rating is 4 stars.
And, I love the cover!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
June 13, 2024
This book is about Aimee and Archie, a married couple that has bought what they hope is their forever home. A house in a small town with big fields. We learn that Archie is a teacher and Aimee is going to open her own shop selling fresh foods. Right from the beginning we get to hear about a mysterious murder and suspicious gifts from Aimees past in a commune. A past which she hasn´t told her husband about.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for letting me read and review this book.
I enjoyed the plot of this book. The time jumps between now (2023) and the past (2016). This book is very heavy on the dialouges which was the thing I didn´t like about it. I found many of the dialouges a bit unnecessary and almost a bit damaging to the plotline. I am very much into plot driven books rather than character driven books so this was sort of a dealbreaker for me unfortunately and something that made me dislike it.
With that said I don´t think you should disregard this book based on my review. If you enjoy a thriller with loads of dialouge, the commune plot, the dual timelines and a bit of a mystery, read this when it gets out July 16th!
I rated this book 1 out of 5 stars based on my explanation above.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for letting me read and review this book.
I enjoyed the plot of this book. The time jumps between now (2023) and the past (2016). This book is very heavy on the dialouges which was the thing I didn´t like about it. I found many of the dialouges a bit unnecessary and almost a bit damaging to the plotline. I am very much into plot driven books rather than character driven books so this was sort of a dealbreaker for me unfortunately and something that made me dislike it.
With that said I don´t think you should disregard this book based on my review. If you enjoy a thriller with loads of dialouge, the commune plot, the dual timelines and a bit of a mystery, read this when it gets out July 16th!
I rated this book 1 out of 5 stars based on my explanation above.
July 17, 2024
A twisty thriller told through dual timelines, The Forever Home had me very intrigued. I was wondering where this story was going, and I enjoyed the ride to the end. There was plenty of drama, lies, and deceit in this story. We follow Aimee and Archie as they move into their dream home. The second POV follows Aimee in 2016 as she live in a commune with her boyfriend Dream. For a while, I was curious about how Aimee's past and present were linked. It did feel as though I was reading two different books at times, but the ending pulled everything together well. The ending was jaw dropping! Kudos to the author for putting a spin on the traditional domestic thriller!
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 2, 2024
This is an easy, quick read for when you’re craving a light thriller. I loved the flashbacks and the mystery of how the past connected to the present. I loved the wild ending. Those are always my favorite. Especially when they catch me by surprise, like this one did. My only complaint is I wish there was more suspense and build up. Maybe hide who Aimee really was in the flashbacks. Overall at 3.5 and would recommend.
September 5, 2024
Super, quick read, pretty predictable.
April 12, 2025
The twists and turns of this book are pretty good. Kind of a slow start, but it had me hooked by the end and I actually didn't guess all the surprises.
July 15, 2024
Looking for a twisted psychological thriller? Look no further. The Forever Home by Sally Royer-Derr is out for publication tomorrow, July 16, 2024 and should be one of your next reads!
Archie and Aimee just purchased their dream farmhouse home out in the country and have made incredible upgrades. Living on an expansive farm property is a dream for Aimee, and one in which Archie quickly becomes accustomed. Opportunities open for them such as a teaching position and self-owned business. Aimee and Archie are doing what they love in a new location, where they have effortlessly adapted. They each meet people they befriend, but mysterious occurrences surround Aimee and these new found friends.
I was hooked with the dual time lines within the novel. I had to keep reading, knocking chapter by chapter out of the way to try to figure out the connections and what was going to happen. The twists and turns leading up to end were certainly surprising and will not disappoint! This is my first book by this author. I have already put others from her on my Goodreads list.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Storm Publishing for the chance to review this novel. The Forever Home by Sally Royer-Derr is out for publication July 16, 2024. This is definitely a book to put on your list to read this month!
Archie and Aimee just purchased their dream farmhouse home out in the country and have made incredible upgrades. Living on an expansive farm property is a dream for Aimee, and one in which Archie quickly becomes accustomed. Opportunities open for them such as a teaching position and self-owned business. Aimee and Archie are doing what they love in a new location, where they have effortlessly adapted. They each meet people they befriend, but mysterious occurrences surround Aimee and these new found friends.
I was hooked with the dual time lines within the novel. I had to keep reading, knocking chapter by chapter out of the way to try to figure out the connections and what was going to happen. The twists and turns leading up to end were certainly surprising and will not disappoint! This is my first book by this author. I have already put others from her on my Goodreads list.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Storm Publishing for the chance to review this novel. The Forever Home by Sally Royer-Derr is out for publication July 16, 2024. This is definitely a book to put on your list to read this month!
May 1, 2025
I couldn’t stop reading! I love the mysterious plot and the surprising ending. A MUST read!
January 17, 2025
4.25⭐️
I am so thankful to have gotten the eARC for free from Netgalley and Storm Publishing so I can leave my voluntary and honest review.
I’ll admit that I was a bit luke warm on part of the book where my interest started to wane. However the last 20% of the book made it all worth it. Has my interest not dipped for a chunk of the middle of the book this would have been a 5 star review.
I liked the multiple POV from different characters as well as past and present. The ending of the book comes together rather quickly as it connects everything together in jaw dropping ways.
I love plots with commune or cult type living but they can get a bit much. This was the best of both worlds since it was only part of the plot and now the new life was shown after one character left the life.
I highly recommend this book for those that like mystery and thrillers. It’s definitely different but in the best way.
My rating system since GoodReads doesn’t have partial stars and I rarely round up.
⭐️ Hated it
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, really not my cup of tea (potentially DNF’d or thought about it)
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Meh, it was an ok read but nothing special
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really enjoyed it! Would recommend to others
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! Will circle back and read again
I am so thankful to have gotten the eARC for free from Netgalley and Storm Publishing so I can leave my voluntary and honest review.
I’ll admit that I was a bit luke warm on part of the book where my interest started to wane. However the last 20% of the book made it all worth it. Has my interest not dipped for a chunk of the middle of the book this would have been a 5 star review.
I liked the multiple POV from different characters as well as past and present. The ending of the book comes together rather quickly as it connects everything together in jaw dropping ways.
I love plots with commune or cult type living but they can get a bit much. This was the best of both worlds since it was only part of the plot and now the new life was shown after one character left the life.
I highly recommend this book for those that like mystery and thrillers. It’s definitely different but in the best way.
My rating system since GoodReads doesn’t have partial stars and I rarely round up.
⭐️ Hated it
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, really not my cup of tea (potentially DNF’d or thought about it)
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Meh, it was an ok read but nothing special
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really enjoyed it! Would recommend to others
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! Will circle back and read again
July 22, 2024
I just couldn’t get past the names of the characters in the commune, especially “Dream.” Interesting twists at the end but I felt it dragged along slowly getting to them.
October 20, 2024
Sally Royer-Derr’s "The Forever Home" offers a gripping thriller packed with unsettling secrets, creeping suspense, and psychological tension that will keep readers on edge. At first glance, the story seems to follow a familiar path: a new life, a new home, and the promise of a peaceful future. But as with all great thrillers, nothing is quite as it seems.
The story centers on a woman who has finally found what seems like the perfect life with her new husband, Archie. Together, they move into a charming, historic farmhouse—the kind of place that promises a fresh start and the safety to leave behind a troubled past. But for the protagonist, that dream quickly unravels. Strange occurrences begin to plague the couple, from lights left on in the attic to eerie music playing in an empty house. Things take a darker turn when an unmarked envelope arrives, containing a photograph of her from years ago—someone knows her secret, and they’ve found her.
Royer-Derr expertly weaves a plot full of twists and escalating tension as the protagonist realizes her haven has been compromised. As she races to protect her new life, readers are drawn into a web of lies, hidden pasts, and dangerous revelations. The farmhouse, once a symbol of hope and stability, becomes a place where paranoia and fear creep in, creating a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the plot’s rising stakes.
Character development is key in this thriller. The protagonist is a complex figure—a woman who is resilient yet vulnerable, trying to escape a shadowy past while building a future with her seemingly perfect husband. As the pressure mounts and her safety is threatened, her inner strength is tested, making her a compelling character to follow. Archie, too, is an enigma, and readers are left wondering if he’s the stable, loving partner he appears to be or if he’s hiding secrets of his own.
Fans of domestic thrillers will be captivated by "The Forever Home". The slow unraveling of the protagonist’s life, the creeping sense of dread, and the tension between her past and present make this a page-turner from start to finish. Royer-Derr’s skillful plotting ensures that just when readers think they know what’s happening, another twist changes everything, keeping the suspense alive.
For those who love stories where home is not the sanctuary it appears to be, and where the past refuses to stay buried, "The Forever Home" will hit all the right notes. With its blend of psychological depth, eerie atmosphere, and shocking revelations, this novel is a must-read for thriller enthusiasts looking for a chilling and unforgettable ride.
The story centers on a woman who has finally found what seems like the perfect life with her new husband, Archie. Together, they move into a charming, historic farmhouse—the kind of place that promises a fresh start and the safety to leave behind a troubled past. But for the protagonist, that dream quickly unravels. Strange occurrences begin to plague the couple, from lights left on in the attic to eerie music playing in an empty house. Things take a darker turn when an unmarked envelope arrives, containing a photograph of her from years ago—someone knows her secret, and they’ve found her.
Royer-Derr expertly weaves a plot full of twists and escalating tension as the protagonist realizes her haven has been compromised. As she races to protect her new life, readers are drawn into a web of lies, hidden pasts, and dangerous revelations. The farmhouse, once a symbol of hope and stability, becomes a place where paranoia and fear creep in, creating a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the plot’s rising stakes.
Character development is key in this thriller. The protagonist is a complex figure—a woman who is resilient yet vulnerable, trying to escape a shadowy past while building a future with her seemingly perfect husband. As the pressure mounts and her safety is threatened, her inner strength is tested, making her a compelling character to follow. Archie, too, is an enigma, and readers are left wondering if he’s the stable, loving partner he appears to be or if he’s hiding secrets of his own.
Fans of domestic thrillers will be captivated by "The Forever Home". The slow unraveling of the protagonist’s life, the creeping sense of dread, and the tension between her past and present make this a page-turner from start to finish. Royer-Derr’s skillful plotting ensures that just when readers think they know what’s happening, another twist changes everything, keeping the suspense alive.
For those who love stories where home is not the sanctuary it appears to be, and where the past refuses to stay buried, "The Forever Home" will hit all the right notes. With its blend of psychological depth, eerie atmosphere, and shocking revelations, this novel is a must-read for thriller enthusiasts looking for a chilling and unforgettable ride.
July 27, 2024
📚 PUBLICATION MONTH BOOK REVIEW 📚
The Forever Home By Sally Royer-Derr
Publication Date: July 16, 2024
Publisher: Storm Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
📚MY REVIEW:
This domestic thriller is a page-turning, quick read that will make you question everyone and trust no one.
Let me tell you, this book was creepy. So creepy, in fact, that I felt compelled to check behind the shower curtain last night before bed. The dual timelines and multiple POVs throughout this book really increased the suspense as I tried to piece together what was going on. Small town secrets, creepy stalkerish behavior, past involvement in a cult-like commune, and a host of questionable characters -- it all came together to create a really fun and myself read. There were a couple REALLY unexpected twists in the book too (unexpected to me, anyway), but keeping up with my spoiler-free promise, I will say no more.
The only thing I didn't like was that it felt like the ending came together a little too quickly. A couple big twists were revealed and then, boom, bang, zip - the book was done. So much detail was provided throughout the whole book, leading up to what was going to happen at the end... But then it seemed like that same amount of detail about the book's conclusion just wasn't there. And I really wanted to know more about the "how" when everything was finally revealed. I kinda thought, "huh?" a couple times - I needed more. It didn't take away from the rest of the book and the fantastic suspense throughout -- I just wished there was a little more in the last part of the story.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review! Be sure you grab a copy of this unputdownable domestic thriller and dive right in!
#TheForeverHome #SallyRoyerDerr #NetGalley #NetGalleyReviews #ARC #bookreviews #bookrecommendations #thrilleraddict #thrillerlover #thrillerreads #domesticthriller
The Forever Home By Sally Royer-Derr
Publication Date: July 16, 2024
Publisher: Storm Publishing
📚MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
📚MY REVIEW:
This domestic thriller is a page-turning, quick read that will make you question everyone and trust no one.
Let me tell you, this book was creepy. So creepy, in fact, that I felt compelled to check behind the shower curtain last night before bed. The dual timelines and multiple POVs throughout this book really increased the suspense as I tried to piece together what was going on. Small town secrets, creepy stalkerish behavior, past involvement in a cult-like commune, and a host of questionable characters -- it all came together to create a really fun and myself read. There were a couple REALLY unexpected twists in the book too (unexpected to me, anyway), but keeping up with my spoiler-free promise, I will say no more.
The only thing I didn't like was that it felt like the ending came together a little too quickly. A couple big twists were revealed and then, boom, bang, zip - the book was done. So much detail was provided throughout the whole book, leading up to what was going to happen at the end... But then it seemed like that same amount of detail about the book's conclusion just wasn't there. And I really wanted to know more about the "how" when everything was finally revealed. I kinda thought, "huh?" a couple times - I needed more. It didn't take away from the rest of the book and the fantastic suspense throughout -- I just wished there was a little more in the last part of the story.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review! Be sure you grab a copy of this unputdownable domestic thriller and dive right in!
#TheForeverHome #SallyRoyerDerr #NetGalley #NetGalleyReviews #ARC #bookreviews #bookrecommendations #thrilleraddict #thrillerlover #thrillerreads #domesticthriller
February 2, 2025
Interesting and original!
This was a really creative story that broke the formula many of these books run off of. The story was unique and entertaining. Here are my pros and cons:
Cons:
Most of my criticisms for this one are really just based on personal taste and not anything I thought was truly wrong with it. Author was a bit overly descriptive of the settings throughout the book. Some people might like that very specific picture painted for them, but for me, it breaks momentum. I also just really, really don’t enjoy gratuitous sex scenes. This wasn’t overly smutty, but it was just a little beyond the boundary of what I can tolerate. Lastly, the real action is slow to get started. Time jumps often break momentum for me too, but in this story, they maintained my interest by cutting into lunch dates and shopping trips and all the magazine-worthy country living this couple was doing (main character could be a bit of an eye-roll at times). That said, the story was interesting enough to make up for all of these things.
Pros:
I very much appreciate that this author creates intelligent female characters. I feel like so many books like this, even the ones I enjoy, contain really stupid females who can’t see what’s obviously going on because it’s the only way the crazy stories will work. The fact that she can come up with storylines that are just as wild and entertaining while keeping her characters stocked with common sense says a lot about her talent as a writer. With Aimee/Sunny, she made a fairly likable character out of someone who was kind of a nut job. Even with the eye rolls, I was still on her side for most of the story. This one also had a ton of twists, even if it was a bit of a slow burn. You really just have to stay on the ride here, because where it’s leading isn’t immediately obvious.
Unique story with good surprises throughout. Really impressed by this author’s creative ideas!
This was a really creative story that broke the formula many of these books run off of. The story was unique and entertaining. Here are my pros and cons:
Cons:
Most of my criticisms for this one are really just based on personal taste and not anything I thought was truly wrong with it. Author was a bit overly descriptive of the settings throughout the book. Some people might like that very specific picture painted for them, but for me, it breaks momentum. I also just really, really don’t enjoy gratuitous sex scenes. This wasn’t overly smutty, but it was just a little beyond the boundary of what I can tolerate. Lastly, the real action is slow to get started. Time jumps often break momentum for me too, but in this story, they maintained my interest by cutting into lunch dates and shopping trips and all the magazine-worthy country living this couple was doing (main character could be a bit of an eye-roll at times). That said, the story was interesting enough to make up for all of these things.
Pros:
I very much appreciate that this author creates intelligent female characters. I feel like so many books like this, even the ones I enjoy, contain really stupid females who can’t see what’s obviously going on because it’s the only way the crazy stories will work. The fact that she can come up with storylines that are just as wild and entertaining while keeping her characters stocked with common sense says a lot about her talent as a writer. With Aimee/Sunny, she made a fairly likable character out of someone who was kind of a nut job. Even with the eye rolls, I was still on her side for most of the story. This one also had a ton of twists, even if it was a bit of a slow burn. You really just have to stay on the ride here, because where it’s leading isn’t immediately obvious.
Unique story with good surprises throughout. Really impressed by this author’s creative ideas!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews