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The Good Parents
They offered her everything she wanted... they wanted everything she had.
Pastry chef Brittany Young is still grieving for her recently deceased twin when she realizes she is pregnant. Certain she is in no shape to care for a baby, she feels utterly trapped.
Salvation arrives in the form of a wealthy couple, John and Angela Dalton. They offer to adopt the child and raise it as their own. Brittany will come and work for them in their luxurious villa during the pregnancy.
But there is something off about the Daltons. John’s gentle demeanor has a sinister edge, and Angela’s erratic behavior grows more threatening by the day. A series of accidents that can't be mere coincidence forces Brittany to ask a terrifying question.
Is someone trying to harm her and her unborn child?
As the truth begins to emerge, Brittany realizes she's trapped in a deadly game. Can she uncover the Daltons' dark secret before it's too late? Or will her dream job become her worst nightmare?
The Good Parents - a gripping psychological thriller perfect for fans of Lucy Foley, Ruth Ware, and Freida McFadden.
Pastry chef Brittany Young is still grieving for her recently deceased twin when she realizes she is pregnant. Certain she is in no shape to care for a baby, she feels utterly trapped.
Salvation arrives in the form of a wealthy couple, John and Angela Dalton. They offer to adopt the child and raise it as their own. Brittany will come and work for them in their luxurious villa during the pregnancy.
But there is something off about the Daltons. John’s gentle demeanor has a sinister edge, and Angela’s erratic behavior grows more threatening by the day. A series of accidents that can't be mere coincidence forces Brittany to ask a terrifying question.
Is someone trying to harm her and her unborn child?
As the truth begins to emerge, Brittany realizes she's trapped in a deadly game. Can she uncover the Daltons' dark secret before it's too late? Or will her dream job become her worst nightmare?
The Good Parents - a gripping psychological thriller perfect for fans of Lucy Foley, Ruth Ware, and Freida McFadden.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 6, 2025
1276 people are currently reading
1628 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Huntley
22 books408 followersJessica Huntley is an award-winning and best-selling psychological thriller author. She's an ex-British soldier and Personal Trainer and has been writing almost non-stop for the past four years.
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
December 28, 2025
This thriller kept me guessing from start to finish. It was dark, disturbing, and very twisted. Some of it was a little over the top but still kept me interested. Jessica Huntley masterfully creates a page-turner that is hard to put down. Thank you NetGalley and Inkubator Books for my copy.
April 2, 2025
A fast-paced, tension-filled thriller with a sinister edge.
From the moment Brittany steps into the Daltons' luxurious villa, The Good Parents wastes no time in ramping up the suspense. What starts as the perfect solution to her impossible situation quickly spirals into a nightmare as the seemingly perfect couple reveals cracks beneath their polished surface.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers where nothing is quite as it seems, The Good Parents delivers an entertaining ride. While seasoned thriller readers may find the plot predictable, the story’s sharp pacing and escalating tension keep the pages turning. It's a solid pick for fans of domestic suspense.
From the moment Brittany steps into the Daltons' luxurious villa, The Good Parents wastes no time in ramping up the suspense. What starts as the perfect solution to her impossible situation quickly spirals into a nightmare as the seemingly perfect couple reveals cracks beneath their polished surface.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers where nothing is quite as it seems, The Good Parents delivers an entertaining ride. While seasoned thriller readers may find the plot predictable, the story’s sharp pacing and escalating tension keep the pages turning. It's a solid pick for fans of domestic suspense.
March 8, 2025
THE GOOD PARENTS BY JESSICA HUNTLEY.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
Release date set for the 6th of April 2025.
This book is amazing.
I adored Jessica's writing style.
The beginning of the book I felt so sorry for the main female character.
Really great characters, likeable and a few I disliked.
Shocking revelations.
Heartbreaking moments.
The whole storyline is soooo good I've thoroughly enjoyed reading.
I'm so glad I found this author and I can't wait to read more of her work.
JUST BRILLIANT
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
Release date set for the 6th of April 2025.
This book is amazing.
I adored Jessica's writing style.
The beginning of the book I felt so sorry for the main female character.
Really great characters, likeable and a few I disliked.
Shocking revelations.
Heartbreaking moments.
The whole storyline is soooo good I've thoroughly enjoyed reading.
I'm so glad I found this author and I can't wait to read more of her work.
JUST BRILLIANT
March 17, 2025
This book starts out by introducing us to Brittany, a struggling pastry chef, who lives with her twin sister and dreams of one day owing her own restaurant. Brittany’s sister is not working due to medical issues and the twins are struggling as debts mount. I could have read an entire book just based on the lives of and relationship between these two sisters. This part of the book was touching and heartwarming for me.
But, of course, this is a thriller and that portion of the book starts when the Daltons come into a restaurant Brittany is working at and offer her the opportunity of a lifetime to work for them at their luxurious villa and on their private yacht, with all her outstanding debts paid for before she joins them. Brittany sees this as the opportunity to finally start saving for her dream restaurant and agrees to work for the Daltons. But the Daltons’ perfect facade starts to fade when she arrives at the villa, and the other employees are suspicious as well. When Brittany finds herself pregnant with an unwanted baby, the Daltons offer to adopt the baby from her. It seems like a perfect arrangement. But things become more and more suspicious by the day and before she knows it, Brittany finds herself questioning whether her arrangement with the Daltons is really for the best.
So, what did I think of this book?
Due to the touching beginning storyline with Brittany’s sister, and even her struggles with her career and finances, I was immediately connected with her and completely invested in her pursuit to succeed and find happiness. This was a book I did not want to put down! Many of the chapters are short and it definitely became one of those “one more chapter” books as I remained glued to this. This book was seemingly headed to 5 star territory for me. And then, there was the “twist”, which wasn’t really a twist as much as it was just a revelation, which I kept hoping would be replaced by an actual twist, but wasn’t. This book reminded me very much of one I’ve read by Freida McFadden, which I will not name, because just knowing which book I’m referring to may be a spoiler in and of itself. I felt very much the same about the McFadden book. I was fully invested and on the edge of my seat, and then disappointed by what I felt was a lackluster twist. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a lackluster storyline, I just felt that in both books, there is enough foreshadowing and suspicion regarding the characters that the revelations lose some of their shock value. With that being said, unlike the McFadden book that had been very hyped up, contributing to my overall disappointment, I had heard nothing about this book before picking it up on NetGalley and I found this to be a very quick, easy read with an enjoyable and relatable main character and an engrossing storyline.
With thanks to NetGalley, Jessica Huntley and Inkubator Books for the ARC in exchange for my review.
But, of course, this is a thriller and that portion of the book starts when the Daltons come into a restaurant Brittany is working at and offer her the opportunity of a lifetime to work for them at their luxurious villa and on their private yacht, with all her outstanding debts paid for before she joins them. Brittany sees this as the opportunity to finally start saving for her dream restaurant and agrees to work for the Daltons. But the Daltons’ perfect facade starts to fade when she arrives at the villa, and the other employees are suspicious as well. When Brittany finds herself pregnant with an unwanted baby, the Daltons offer to adopt the baby from her. It seems like a perfect arrangement. But things become more and more suspicious by the day and before she knows it, Brittany finds herself questioning whether her arrangement with the Daltons is really for the best.
So, what did I think of this book?
Due to the touching beginning storyline with Brittany’s sister, and even her struggles with her career and finances, I was immediately connected with her and completely invested in her pursuit to succeed and find happiness. This was a book I did not want to put down! Many of the chapters are short and it definitely became one of those “one more chapter” books as I remained glued to this. This book was seemingly headed to 5 star territory for me. And then, there was the “twist”, which wasn’t really a twist as much as it was just a revelation, which I kept hoping would be replaced by an actual twist, but wasn’t. This book reminded me very much of one I’ve read by Freida McFadden, which I will not name, because just knowing which book I’m referring to may be a spoiler in and of itself. I felt very much the same about the McFadden book. I was fully invested and on the edge of my seat, and then disappointed by what I felt was a lackluster twist. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a lackluster storyline, I just felt that in both books, there is enough foreshadowing and suspicion regarding the characters that the revelations lose some of their shock value. With that being said, unlike the McFadden book that had been very hyped up, contributing to my overall disappointment, I had heard nothing about this book before picking it up on NetGalley and I found this to be a very quick, easy read with an enjoyable and relatable main character and an engrossing storyline.
With thanks to NetGalley, Jessica Huntley and Inkubator Books for the ARC in exchange for my review.
March 28, 2025
I enjoyed this story, as I am always intrigued when I can’t quite figure out what is going on. This domestic thriller has an easy to love FMC with very strong character development. She will capture you from the very beginning & has a very satisfying conclusion to her story.
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Format: ebook📲
Perfect for: domestic thriller fans
What I loved: The FMC & authors writing style
Pages: 330p
The story follows Brittany, and her road to healing after loosing her twin sister. Taking Clara’s death very hard and with no other family around, she is anxious to start over but it is hard to do that without money. When she meets Angela and John, they offer her the opportunity of a lifetime and most importantly a fresh start. She is an up-and-coming pastry chef & this wealthy couple is willing to hire her, but this will require her to relocate. Great income, all expenses paid, fresh start.. all of this sounds amazing to Brittany, but as the weeks and months go by with her working for this couple, she’s beginning to wonder how she put herself in danger as she finds herself in a deadly cat & mouse game.
Overall a very solid read that I highly recommend for fans of domestic thrillers! My first from this author but certainly won’t be my last! Thank you Inkubator Books and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4 ⭐️
Format: ebook📲
Perfect for: domestic thriller fans
What I loved: The FMC & authors writing style
Pages: 330p
The story follows Brittany, and her road to healing after loosing her twin sister. Taking Clara’s death very hard and with no other family around, she is anxious to start over but it is hard to do that without money. When she meets Angela and John, they offer her the opportunity of a lifetime and most importantly a fresh start. She is an up-and-coming pastry chef & this wealthy couple is willing to hire her, but this will require her to relocate. Great income, all expenses paid, fresh start.. all of this sounds amazing to Brittany, but as the weeks and months go by with her working for this couple, she’s beginning to wonder how she put herself in danger as she finds herself in a deadly cat & mouse game.
Overall a very solid read that I highly recommend for fans of domestic thrillers! My first from this author but certainly won’t be my last! Thank you Inkubator Books and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
March 20, 2025
A grieving pastry chef, Brittany, accepts an offer from a wealthy couple, John and Angela Dalton, to adopt her unborn child in exchange for working for them. However, the Daltons' behavior becomes increasingly suspicious, leading Brittany to question if someone is trying to harm her and her baby. As she uncovers their dark secret, she must figure out how to escape the deadly game she's been pulled into.
Wow, what a thrilling rollercoaster ride of twists, turns, and unleashed emotions! I have to admit, I don't know why I always choose to start Jessica's books at night because I never end up getting any sleep. Her stories are so gripping and full of dark twists and suspense that it's impossible to put them down. I really need to learn my lesson one of these days!
It's funny, at this point, my husband knows when I start one of her books because he'll just say, "I'll see you in the morning." That's how engrossing her writing is!
This latest book had such an unexpected plot, and since I rarely read the blurb, I was surprised with every turn of the page. The idea was brilliant and executed flawlessly. The main character, Brittany, was so well-developed and drew me in from the very beginning. I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of sadness for her and found myself rooting for a positive change in her life. But boy, did she have a lot on her plate right from the start. I kept wondering, "What is actually going on here?" Every time I thought I had something figured out, I was thrown off track. This was a challenging book to predict, and the ending was completely unexpected. I didn't breathe a sigh of relief until the very last page!
And let me tell you, if you think a few twists are enough, you're mistaken. This book is jam-packed with unpredictable twists that just keep coming, leading up to an ending that will leave you speechless. If you're a reader who loves to guess, uncover dark secrets, and navigate dangerous situations, this book is perfect for you. It was so addictive that I couldn't put it down, and I guarantee that any rainy day outside will pale in comparison to the excitement of this read!
Thank you, Inkubator Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow, what a thrilling rollercoaster ride of twists, turns, and unleashed emotions! I have to admit, I don't know why I always choose to start Jessica's books at night because I never end up getting any sleep. Her stories are so gripping and full of dark twists and suspense that it's impossible to put them down. I really need to learn my lesson one of these days!
It's funny, at this point, my husband knows when I start one of her books because he'll just say, "I'll see you in the morning." That's how engrossing her writing is!
This latest book had such an unexpected plot, and since I rarely read the blurb, I was surprised with every turn of the page. The idea was brilliant and executed flawlessly. The main character, Brittany, was so well-developed and drew me in from the very beginning. I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of sadness for her and found myself rooting for a positive change in her life. But boy, did she have a lot on her plate right from the start. I kept wondering, "What is actually going on here?" Every time I thought I had something figured out, I was thrown off track. This was a challenging book to predict, and the ending was completely unexpected. I didn't breathe a sigh of relief until the very last page!
And let me tell you, if you think a few twists are enough, you're mistaken. This book is jam-packed with unpredictable twists that just keep coming, leading up to an ending that will leave you speechless. If you're a reader who loves to guess, uncover dark secrets, and navigate dangerous situations, this book is perfect for you. It was so addictive that I couldn't put it down, and I guarantee that any rainy day outside will pale in comparison to the excitement of this read!
Thank you, Inkubator Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 10, 2025
I do get weary about so many domestic thrillers (I read a lot!) However, I had just found this author and enjoyed many of her books. I have to say I liked the plot on this one. We are educated on kidney abnormalities, pregnancy and cooking! This author’s writing never fails to engage me, and I love her pace!
March 23, 2025
“WOW! What just happened!?” has become my new phrase for Jessica Huntley’s books.
*No spoilers*
Yessss! Another 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Jessica Huntley book for me!
In The Good Parents, the author takes great passion establishing the main character, Brittany, her close relationship with her identical twin, her fears/phobia, her exceptional talent as a pastry chef and career goals, and I found myself immediately intrigued wanting to follow her storyline. . .
This quick page-turner accelerated even faster for me when a horribly shocking event occurs which absolutely tore my heart to pieces, and I instantly became invested in how the rest of the plot would unravel. The following turn of events leads Brittany with an offer to work in another country with mysterious characters — some you love to hate and others not so trustworthy. I’m glad some of the things I predicted didn’t happen, so I appreciated the unique storyline, twists and turns, and satisfying ending! The book evoked a wide range of feelings from empathy, sadness and grief to fear and suspense, and excitement and awe! I HIGHLY recommend it, especially if you’re new to Jessica Huntley’s books.
Note: This is the second book I’ve read by Jessica Huntley, and I want to thank her for receiving it as an ARC (Release Date April 6, 2025). I also enthusiastically recommend The Murder Maze which she released on March 1, 2025 and has currently received very high ratings on Goodreads and Amazon. My reviews for both books are my honest opinions.
*No spoilers*
Yessss! Another 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Jessica Huntley book for me!
In The Good Parents, the author takes great passion establishing the main character, Brittany, her close relationship with her identical twin, her fears/phobia, her exceptional talent as a pastry chef and career goals, and I found myself immediately intrigued wanting to follow her storyline. . .
This quick page-turner accelerated even faster for me when a horribly shocking event occurs which absolutely tore my heart to pieces, and I instantly became invested in how the rest of the plot would unravel. The following turn of events leads Brittany with an offer to work in another country with mysterious characters — some you love to hate and others not so trustworthy. I’m glad some of the things I predicted didn’t happen, so I appreciated the unique storyline, twists and turns, and satisfying ending! The book evoked a wide range of feelings from empathy, sadness and grief to fear and suspense, and excitement and awe! I HIGHLY recommend it, especially if you’re new to Jessica Huntley’s books.
Note: This is the second book I’ve read by Jessica Huntley, and I want to thank her for receiving it as an ARC (Release Date April 6, 2025). I also enthusiastically recommend The Murder Maze which she released on March 1, 2025 and has currently received very high ratings on Goodreads and Amazon. My reviews for both books are my honest opinions.
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April 9, 2025The Good Parents by Jessica Huntley, for those who know the difference between a thriller and a “THRILLER,” just know this book falls under thriller. This book was so over-the-top contradictory and just plain out unbelievable. OK, Brittany’s Identical twin sister soon after receiving one of Britney‘s kidneys, dies due to a brain hemorrhage and because she had a DNR there was nothing the medical team could do. Brittany is devastated and now that she has only one kidney drinking is out of the question. So when a coworker from her previous employment calls to check up on her he invites him over and they have a one night stand. She’s also unemployed because the chef where she worked as a bakery chef wouldn’t let her have the time off to donate a kidney to her dying sister so she told him off and went through with the surgery. this is why Cordon Bleu trained bakery Chef Brittany is working as a waitress when she meets Angela and John who owns multiple Michelin restaurants and ask her to show up for an interview the next day at 11. soon Brittany is working for the couple but not at a restaurant at their private home in France. It isn’t long before she learned she is working in the land of Looney Tunes. One day Angela is nice and welcoming always asking how she is and the next day she is cold and unforgiving John on the other hand never says anything. When she learns she is pregnant a coworker thinks she instead has gonorrhea and reports to their employees that something is wrong with Brittany. This is when Brittany breaks down and tells them she is pregnant and she just knows she soon to lose her job but oh no instead they promise her everything she’s ever wanted as long as they can have her baby and Brittany who has no motherly instincts whatsoever says yes. it isn’t long before Brittany is second-guessing her decision but it seems it may be too late and by the time she’s due to give birth she’ll be lucky to live long enough and keeping her baby will be the least of her problems. sounds like a great thriller right… Not so much this book was so dumb and over the top I even put it down and only came back to finish it a week later because I knew it was due soon. I wish I was one of those people who could wax poetic about all the reasons I didn’t enjoy this book but just know you have a headache rolling your eyes so much throughout the narrative and although I know some people like these goofy over-the-top books but this book was way way too over the top for my taste. I don’t like talking bad about books but when you put in such a little effort IDK it just rubs me the wrong way like really this is the best you can do?it’s like the equivalent to someone lying to you it is such an insult to your intelligence it will make you want to throw the book at the wall. Read at your own risk. #IncubatorBooks, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,#JessicaHuntley, #TheGoodParents,l
April 15, 2025
I was hooked on this book as soon as i picked it up. O love the dynamics of the chef world and i so enjoyed dissecting the relationship between John and Angela. I knew something was wrong with John when he put his has on Brittany's knee!! I could not put this book down and i did see what happened to Christine to be what it was! I feel so sorry for the poor baby but that is unfortunate a reality for some families.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
Dive headfirst into the drama-filled whirlpool of The Good Parents, where life for Brittany—a pastry chef with a talent for sweet creations becomes a whirlwind of chaos. Brittany gets tangled up with the Daltons, the seemingly perfect couple who offer her a deal that feels too good to be true—a job in another country as head pastry chef. Then Brittany discovers she's pregnant. This becomes the spark that ignites a wildfire of lies, and deceit dragging Brittany into the Daltons’ dark schemes.
Jessica’s writing keeps you teetering between gasping at the audacity of the lies and screaming, “No, Brittany, don’t trust them!” The twists come sharp and fast, like a knife through butter, and the characters are crafted so well that you can’t decide whether to be charmed or completely creeped out.
Jessica’s sharp dialogue and talent for suspense mean you’ll be flipping pages faster than Brittany can bake a batch of croissants.
So, buckle up—it’s a wild, darkly entertaining ride that’ll stick with you long after that delicious and jaw-dropping twist!
Jessica’s writing keeps you teetering between gasping at the audacity of the lies and screaming, “No, Brittany, don’t trust them!” The twists come sharp and fast, like a knife through butter, and the characters are crafted so well that you can’t decide whether to be charmed or completely creeped out.
Jessica’s sharp dialogue and talent for suspense mean you’ll be flipping pages faster than Brittany can bake a batch of croissants.
So, buckle up—it’s a wild, darkly entertaining ride that’ll stick with you long after that delicious and jaw-dropping twist!
March 8, 2025
The Good Parents is an addictively, intriguing, dark and twisty psychological thriller. The book does start off on the slower side (stick through it, it's worth it), but Jessica's writing always manages to keep me hooked. I read this book in 2 sittings. I was so engrossed in the story. The storyline and plot are original with shocking revelations and a pace that keeps you flipping those pages.
Brittany was such a well developed character. There were many dislikable and untrustworthy characters. I didn't know who to trust, what to trust, kept my mind spinning. This book was definitely a roller coaster ride and I highly enjoyed it.
Overall, this was a great dark and twisty thriller that is impossible to put down. Jessica is a true talent with her storytelling skills, her delivery and her originality. Give her a shot if you haven't!
✨️Thank you to @netgalley, @inkubatorbooks & @jessicahuntley for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Brittany was such a well developed character. There were many dislikable and untrustworthy characters. I didn't know who to trust, what to trust, kept my mind spinning. This book was definitely a roller coaster ride and I highly enjoyed it.
Overall, this was a great dark and twisty thriller that is impossible to put down. Jessica is a true talent with her storytelling skills, her delivery and her originality. Give her a shot if you haven't!
✨️Thank you to @netgalley, @inkubatorbooks & @jessicahuntley for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2025
The prologue is gripping. I’m an identical twin, and Britt and Clara’s subplot is really powerful. Jessica Huntley deals with a diagnosis of kidney disease and failure in a sensitive way and I learned about it.It’s a good way to raise awareness. I was concerned for both Clara and Britt.
The whole book is twisty and fast paced. I was disgusted at Chef Andre, and proud of Britt’s reaction towards him. I loved how the other chefs supported her. Both Britt and Clara are determined and so loving and supportive of each other.
Thanks to Jessica Huntley.The Good Parents is the third novel I’ve reviewed by her after Under Her Skin and Horrible Husbands.
Five stars but deserves more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The whole book is twisty and fast paced. I was disgusted at Chef Andre, and proud of Britt’s reaction towards him. I loved how the other chefs supported her. Both Britt and Clara are determined and so loving and supportive of each other.
Thanks to Jessica Huntley.The Good Parents is the third novel I’ve reviewed by her after Under Her Skin and Horrible Husbands.
Five stars but deserves more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2025
Woah! This was a shocking thriller by Jessica Huntley! Lots of gripping suspense, and thrilling twists! I was so worried for the main character, I couldn’t put this one down. A must read for thriller fans.
Release date April 6, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
Release date April 6, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this advanced copy.
August 30, 2025
DNF @ 23%
Illogical and incredibly over dramatic. Great read for those who enjoy childish and stupid characters.
Illogical and incredibly over dramatic. Great read for those who enjoy childish and stupid characters.
April 4, 2025
Dark, spooky and little extra but enjoyable nonetheless! It was a fun read - the story was great and the plot was interesting. Sometimes drug on a bit but the twists and turns would pull you back in!
March 27, 2025
The Good Parents is a fast-paced and engaging thriller that kept me turning the pages. The tension builds well, and the story is full of twists that make it hard to put down. While some moments require you to suspend belief, it didn’t take away from the enjoyment—I was fully invested in seeing how things played out. The writing is compelling, and I’d definitely read more from Jessica Huntley in the future.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read and review this book!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read and review this book!
March 19, 2025
First and foremost. If you have experienced infant or child loss and are in a vulnerable place, sit this one out. The blurb does not mention it. It is discussed, at length, several times, not just in passing.
Overall, this book is a quick and twisty read. The beginning starts a little slow but picks up around the 35 percent mark. I wouldn't say there is a big shocking twist but the climax is well written and engaging.
I read this book as an ARC. Be sure to check it out on release day April 6th!
Overall, this book is a quick and twisty read. The beginning starts a little slow but picks up around the 35 percent mark. I wouldn't say there is a big shocking twist but the climax is well written and engaging.
I read this book as an ARC. Be sure to check it out on release day April 6th!
June 8, 2025
I have no idea how this has such high ratings. It was generic, predicable and slightly entertaining. The biggest positive? The writing style and flow. The epilogue? Trash. Why even make that ending?
July 19, 2025
Oof, this is the closest I’ve come to genuinely hating a book. Intriguing idea, terrible execution.
Energy: Vapid. Gaspy. Dramatic.
🐺 Growls: Bloated, repetitive, overwritten filler that circled a few plot points. Exaggerated tension and ‘dramatic’ cliffhangers. Over-explaining. Every character sounded the same. Dialogue read too formal (and like bad acting). We know the MC is pregnant from the synopsis but endure vomit/nausea descriptions for soooo long. Everyone made irrational decisions. Constantly reminding us how dangerous situations are. Tired, cliched thriller tropes (random POV switch, mental illness twists, outdated & potentially insensitive ‘shocking reveals’).
Scene: 🏴🇫🇷 London, England. Côte d’Azur, France
Perspectives (2): A talented but unrecognized pastry chef who is grieving a loss and wants to focus on their career but finds out they’re pregnant. The spouse of the person who hired the pastry chef to be a personal chef.
Timeline: Linear, leading up to an incident. 2010s or 2020s
Narrative: Listening to characters, deep in their minds (first person)
Fuel: What will happen with the twin sister’s illness? Who is the couple that wants our MC to work for them? Why do they seem to have a strange dynamic? What will our MC do about their baby?
Cred: Over-the-top illogical
Mood Reading Match-Up:
Villa. Nausea. Dizziness. Ultrasound. Freezer. Nausea. Dizziness. Ultrasound. Freezer. Nausea…
• Overly simplistic, cheesy, and melodramatic writing style
• Bumbling, naïve, foolish, mean, unhinged, and villainous characters
• Domestic melodrama & horrific things happening
• Foolish MC
• Adoption schemes
• Abuse, grief, trauma, and illness twisters
• Reluctant motherhood
• Plot-drive popcorn thriller structure
• Casual fling
• Twin bonds
Content Heads-Up: Ableism/lookism (cleft palate). Adoption (illegal). Abortion (forced; discussion). Bullying (workplace; misogyny, sabotage). Child abuse (baby). Chronic kidney disease. Confinement. Dementia (recall). Domestic abuse, violence. Drugging (forced medication). Financial insecurity. Grief (on page, descriptive). Loss of child (baby). Loss of sibling. Medical (transplant; hemorrhage). Miscarriage (recall). Post natal depression. Sexual content (behind closed doors). Suicidal thoughts. Vomit (frequent).
Rep: British. Cis. Lesbian. Hetero. Beetroot red, pale skin tones.
📚 Format: Advance Reader’s Copy from Inkubator Books and NetGalley
My musings 💖 powered by puppy snuggles 🐶
Energy: Vapid. Gaspy. Dramatic.
🐺 Growls: Bloated, repetitive, overwritten filler that circled a few plot points. Exaggerated tension and ‘dramatic’ cliffhangers. Over-explaining. Every character sounded the same. Dialogue read too formal (and like bad acting). We know the MC is pregnant from the synopsis but endure vomit/nausea descriptions for soooo long. Everyone made irrational decisions. Constantly reminding us how dangerous situations are. Tired, cliched thriller tropes (random POV switch, mental illness twists, outdated & potentially insensitive ‘shocking reveals’).
Scene: 🏴🇫🇷 London, England. Côte d’Azur, France
Perspectives (2): A talented but unrecognized pastry chef who is grieving a loss and wants to focus on their career but finds out they’re pregnant. The spouse of the person who hired the pastry chef to be a personal chef.
Timeline: Linear, leading up to an incident. 2010s or 2020s
Narrative: Listening to characters, deep in their minds (first person)
Fuel: What will happen with the twin sister’s illness? Who is the couple that wants our MC to work for them? Why do they seem to have a strange dynamic? What will our MC do about their baby?
Cred: Over-the-top illogical
Mood Reading Match-Up:
Villa. Nausea. Dizziness. Ultrasound. Freezer. Nausea. Dizziness. Ultrasound. Freezer. Nausea…
• Overly simplistic, cheesy, and melodramatic writing style
• Bumbling, naïve, foolish, mean, unhinged, and villainous characters
• Domestic melodrama & horrific things happening
• Foolish MC
• Adoption schemes
• Abuse, grief, trauma, and illness twisters
• Reluctant motherhood
• Plot-drive popcorn thriller structure
• Casual fling
• Twin bonds
Content Heads-Up: Ableism/lookism (cleft palate). Adoption (illegal). Abortion (forced; discussion). Bullying (workplace; misogyny, sabotage). Child abuse (baby). Chronic kidney disease. Confinement. Dementia (recall). Domestic abuse, violence. Drugging (forced medication). Financial insecurity. Grief (on page, descriptive). Loss of child (baby). Loss of sibling. Medical (transplant; hemorrhage). Miscarriage (recall). Post natal depression. Sexual content (behind closed doors). Suicidal thoughts. Vomit (frequent).
Rep: British. Cis. Lesbian. Hetero. Beetroot red, pale skin tones.
📚 Format: Advance Reader’s Copy from Inkubator Books and NetGalley
My musings 💖 powered by puppy snuggles 🐶
March 10, 2025
I'm going to warn you that the first 30% of this book could have been reduced to about 2 pages of backstory. It takes forever to get to the actual plot!
Once you do, it's definitely interesting. Our characters - especially our couple - are really odd and very fun to read.
As for our MC, I was a little frustrated with her decision making skills (i.e. none), but she was definitely entertaining and had me munching the popcorn.
The truth behind everything is both sad and seriously over the top.
Overall a fun read.
Once you do, it's definitely interesting. Our characters - especially our couple - are really odd and very fun to read.
As for our MC, I was a little frustrated with her decision making skills (i.e. none), but she was definitely entertaining and had me munching the popcorn.
The truth behind everything is both sad and seriously over the top.
Overall a fun read.
April 8, 2025
This was so good!!! I was completely hooked from start to finish.
We follow pastry chef Brittany at a time when she’s grieving after the loss of her twin sister and she is looking for a new start. One day luck is on her side and she is offered a fantastic job and a new start.
Soon things take a darker turn and Brittany is feeling even more helpless. I really liked Brittany, you couldn’t help but feel for her after everything she had been through.
This book was non stop, just when I thought I had something figured out I was thrown off track. I definitely recommend this one.
We follow pastry chef Brittany at a time when she’s grieving after the loss of her twin sister and she is looking for a new start. One day luck is on her side and she is offered a fantastic job and a new start.
Soon things take a darker turn and Brittany is feeling even more helpless. I really liked Brittany, you couldn’t help but feel for her after everything she had been through.
This book was non stop, just when I thought I had something figured out I was thrown off track. I definitely recommend this one.
April 21, 2025
annoying
The main character seems to spend more time blacking out or unconscious than she does anything else. Just not as good as I expected it to be.
The main character seems to spend more time blacking out or unconscious than she does anything else. Just not as good as I expected it to be.
May 31, 2025
Absolute rubbish. Stopped reading a quarter of the way through. Poorly written nonsense. Cannot believe it’s got so many good reviews 🤷♀️
March 20, 2025
2.5 ⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up to 3 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I will just start this review by saying, If you loved it I’m so glad you did! But for me, something about this book and I, just didn’t gel the way it was supposed to!
Some thoughts :
- The first 20%- 30% was just background. Whilst I appreciated it, a lot of what happened we already knew from the blurb so it felt a lot like filler rather than getting straight into the grittiness of the actual plot. It also meant there weren’t any initial surprises or twists from the outset.
- My biggest issue reading this was the predictability and the fact that nothing happened that was surprising or “thrilling”. I kept waiting for a big reveal or a big twist but there really wasn’t anything. The stuff with Angela was, for me, pretty obvious from the moment you understood who gave her the medicine. I also feel like this wasn’t helped in the way in which things were revealed. Some things felt very over explained, whilst others felt very under explained. As a reader, I was literally being given the story without any build up or reading between the lines or any guesswork.
- I also just didn’t like any of the characters apart from Clara and Luke. None of them were redeeming in anyway for me, so I can’t say I was particularly rooting for a ‘good’ ending because I really didn’t care about any of them. I also just couldn’t stand our main character, the decisions she makes and the things she does whilst incapacitated and pregnant- were questionable and unrealistic at points.
- I do think the premise was good, interesting and somewhat enjoyable watching it unfold - even though it was predictable- i just really wanted more.
Overall, this book just didn’t work for me. As a psychological thriller I think this is weaker at points. It doesn’t have that grittiness or any ‘thrilling’ aspects that I was hoping it’d capture for me. Yes there’s points of psychological manipulation and tension and suspense but not enough that made me really question or second guess things. Everything felt like it was handed to me, pretty quickly. Once I’d worked everything out and understood, it was pretty much done within the first half of the book. The second half felt very much like going through the motions, knowing how it was going to end and basically just seeing how the author got there - rather than the reader being taken on a journey to that point.
I will say the writing was what kept me reading, the style was enjoyable and I definitely hope to check out this authors other works because maybe this book just wasn’t the one for me!
Thank you again to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I will just start this review by saying, If you loved it I’m so glad you did! But for me, something about this book and I, just didn’t gel the way it was supposed to!
Some thoughts :
- The first 20%- 30% was just background. Whilst I appreciated it, a lot of what happened we already knew from the blurb so it felt a lot like filler rather than getting straight into the grittiness of the actual plot. It also meant there weren’t any initial surprises or twists from the outset.
- My biggest issue reading this was the predictability and the fact that nothing happened that was surprising or “thrilling”. I kept waiting for a big reveal or a big twist but there really wasn’t anything. The stuff with Angela was, for me, pretty obvious from the moment you understood who gave her the medicine. I also feel like this wasn’t helped in the way in which things were revealed. Some things felt very over explained, whilst others felt very under explained. As a reader, I was literally being given the story without any build up or reading between the lines or any guesswork.
- I also just didn’t like any of the characters apart from Clara and Luke. None of them were redeeming in anyway for me, so I can’t say I was particularly rooting for a ‘good’ ending because I really didn’t care about any of them. I also just couldn’t stand our main character, the decisions she makes and the things she does whilst incapacitated and pregnant- were questionable and unrealistic at points.
- I do think the premise was good, interesting and somewhat enjoyable watching it unfold - even though it was predictable- i just really wanted more.
Overall, this book just didn’t work for me. As a psychological thriller I think this is weaker at points. It doesn’t have that grittiness or any ‘thrilling’ aspects that I was hoping it’d capture for me. Yes there’s points of psychological manipulation and tension and suspense but not enough that made me really question or second guess things. Everything felt like it was handed to me, pretty quickly. Once I’d worked everything out and understood, it was pretty much done within the first half of the book. The second half felt very much like going through the motions, knowing how it was going to end and basically just seeing how the author got there - rather than the reader being taken on a journey to that point.
I will say the writing was what kept me reading, the style was enjoyable and I definitely hope to check out this authors other works because maybe this book just wasn’t the one for me!
Thank you again to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2025
Let me just say—I picked this book up expecting a little domestic suspense and a few rich-people secrets. What I got was a full-on “WHY ARE YOU STILL IN THAT HOUSE, BRITTANY?!” experience with a side of croissants.
Brittany Young, our pastry chef with more trauma than a Lifetime movie marathon, is grieving the death of her twin sister (cue tears), finds out she’s pregnant (cue panic), and then gets swept into a rich couple’s too-good-to-be-true offer: live in their bougie villa, bake some tarts, pop out the baby, and hand it over. Easy peasy, right?
WRONG.
John and Angela Dalton are basically what you’d get if Martha Stewart and Hannibal Lecter had a baby and dressed it in cashmere. At first, they seem charming in that overly polished, rich-people-who-don’t-blink kind of way. But it doesn’t take long before things get real weird. I’m talking cold stares, strange noises at night, “accidents” that seem a little too convenient, and Angela… whew. That woman gives off Stepford Wife meets wild-eyed raccoon energy.
The whole book smells like sugar cookies and something burning in the basement. You can feel the warmth of the fancy kitchen and the chill of someone watching you through the window. Huntley does a great job layering tension like Brittany layers butter into puff pastry—smooth, slow, and then BAM! You’re sweating and suspicious of everyone.
And let me tell you, just when I thought I had it figured out, Jessica Huntley hit me with a plot twist so sharp it could’ve sliced through a chocolate éclair.
This book is a quick, deliciously twisty read that had me yelling at the pages like I was watching a horror movie. If you like thrillers with strong female leads, rich-people weirdness, and the kind of suspense that makes you clutch your coffee a little tighter, The Good Parents should definitely be on your list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brittany Young, our pastry chef with more trauma than a Lifetime movie marathon, is grieving the death of her twin sister (cue tears), finds out she’s pregnant (cue panic), and then gets swept into a rich couple’s too-good-to-be-true offer: live in their bougie villa, bake some tarts, pop out the baby, and hand it over. Easy peasy, right?
WRONG.
John and Angela Dalton are basically what you’d get if Martha Stewart and Hannibal Lecter had a baby and dressed it in cashmere. At first, they seem charming in that overly polished, rich-people-who-don’t-blink kind of way. But it doesn’t take long before things get real weird. I’m talking cold stares, strange noises at night, “accidents” that seem a little too convenient, and Angela… whew. That woman gives off Stepford Wife meets wild-eyed raccoon energy.
The whole book smells like sugar cookies and something burning in the basement. You can feel the warmth of the fancy kitchen and the chill of someone watching you through the window. Huntley does a great job layering tension like Brittany layers butter into puff pastry—smooth, slow, and then BAM! You’re sweating and suspicious of everyone.
And let me tell you, just when I thought I had it figured out, Jessica Huntley hit me with a plot twist so sharp it could’ve sliced through a chocolate éclair.
This book is a quick, deliciously twisty read that had me yelling at the pages like I was watching a horror movie. If you like thrillers with strong female leads, rich-people weirdness, and the kind of suspense that makes you clutch your coffee a little tighter, The Good Parents should definitely be on your list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2025
You know that feeling where you think, "This is too good to be true." Trust your instincts on this one. If you get a weird vibe.... Maam, you're probably right!
So, YES! I just finished this book and WOW... I'm still reeling! At first, everything seems normal. Brittany's world is falling apart. Still raw from losing her twin, she finds herself pregnant and completely alone. Then suddenly, the wealthy Daltons appear, offering to take her baby. They promise everything she could want. But what do they really want? Something about their perfect smiles and generous offer just feels...wrong.
Jessica Huntley really knows how to keep you guessing. Every character feels suspicious, and the tension just keeps building. You'll be flipping pages... desperate to figure out who's good and who's hiding something really REALLY bad.
In my reading experience, I feel the whole atmosphere is just…SO creepy. I was totally on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next. It's not just jump scares either, okay? This is a psychological thriller that messes with your head! You'll start doubting everything and EVERYONE.
What really hooked me was how the author peeled back the layers of the characters. These aren't just one dimensional villains or victims. Everyone has their OWN secrets and motivations and you're never quite sure who to believe. The protagonist goes through this incredible transformation as she starts to realize the danger she's in. And you'll be rooting for her the whole way.
If you love thrillers that twist your mind and keep you guessing till the end, you've got to read this. It has that perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and psychological drama. You won't see the ending coming.
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Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
So, YES! I just finished this book and WOW... I'm still reeling! At first, everything seems normal. Brittany's world is falling apart. Still raw from losing her twin, she finds herself pregnant and completely alone. Then suddenly, the wealthy Daltons appear, offering to take her baby. They promise everything she could want. But what do they really want? Something about their perfect smiles and generous offer just feels...wrong.
Jessica Huntley really knows how to keep you guessing. Every character feels suspicious, and the tension just keeps building. You'll be flipping pages... desperate to figure out who's good and who's hiding something really REALLY bad.
In my reading experience, I feel the whole atmosphere is just…SO creepy. I was totally on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next. It's not just jump scares either, okay? This is a psychological thriller that messes with your head! You'll start doubting everything and EVERYONE.
What really hooked me was how the author peeled back the layers of the characters. These aren't just one dimensional villains or victims. Everyone has their OWN secrets and motivations and you're never quite sure who to believe. The protagonist goes through this incredible transformation as she starts to realize the danger she's in. And you'll be rooting for her the whole way.
If you love thrillers that twist your mind and keep you guessing till the end, you've got to read this. It has that perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and psychological drama. You won't see the ending coming.
-------------
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2025
After grieving the loss of her twin sister, pastry chef Brittany Young feels adrift. When she lands an incredible opportunity as a private chef for the wealthy and enigmatic John and Angela Dalton, it seems like the fresh start she desperately needs. The job helps her regain her footing, and for the first time in a long while, life seems to be looking up. But when Brittany unexpectedly becomes pregnant, the Daltons eagerly offer to adopt the child and raise it as their own. At first, it seems like the perfect arrangement.
That is until Brittany starts to notice cracks beneath the couple’s polished façade. Angela’s behavior grows more erratic, and John’s charm carries an unsettling, sinister quality. The deeper she digs, the more disturbing truths she uncovers. Soon, Brittany realizes her dream job may be a carefully laid trap. And once you're in the Daltons' world, getting out isn’t so easy.
The plot of this book pulled me in immediately, delivering all the elements of a compelling thriller. Spanning a little over a year in under 300 pages, it’s a fast-paced read that keeps you on edge. I found myself constantly trying to unravel the Daltons' secrets, and with chapters from Angela's perspective woven in, the story kept me second-guessing what was really happening. While I did raise an eyebrow at some of the characters’ decisions and how realistic they were, I still thoroughly enjoyed this read. I'm looking forward to exploring more of Jessica Huntley's work!
That is until Brittany starts to notice cracks beneath the couple’s polished façade. Angela’s behavior grows more erratic, and John’s charm carries an unsettling, sinister quality. The deeper she digs, the more disturbing truths she uncovers. Soon, Brittany realizes her dream job may be a carefully laid trap. And once you're in the Daltons' world, getting out isn’t so easy.
The plot of this book pulled me in immediately, delivering all the elements of a compelling thriller. Spanning a little over a year in under 300 pages, it’s a fast-paced read that keeps you on edge. I found myself constantly trying to unravel the Daltons' secrets, and with chapters from Angela's perspective woven in, the story kept me second-guessing what was really happening. While I did raise an eyebrow at some of the characters’ decisions and how realistic they were, I still thoroughly enjoyed this read. I'm looking forward to exploring more of Jessica Huntley's work!
April 6, 2025
The Good Parents by Jessica Huntley is a fast-paced thriller full of secrets and suspense!
Brittany Young is a pastry chef who is mourning the loss of her twin sister. When she discovers she is pregnant, she has no clue what to do. She has no way to take care of a baby and she is not maternal in the least. But Brittany's future seems to improve after meeting John and Angela Dalton, a wealthy couple who have offered Brittany a job at their extravagant villa. They also offer to adopt Brittany's baby and to raise it at their own. But soon Brittany notices strange things happening, John's behavior is more sinister than charming, and Angela is erratic and unstable. Brittany realizes that she is trapped in an increasingly dangerous game and she must find a way for her baby and her to escape.
An absolute roller coaster of a ride, this novel is so fast-paced I flew through it in a day! This is the third book by Huntley that I have read and I am already eagerly anticipating what she writes next! The characters were all well developed even if some were incredibly unstable and unlikable. With short punchy chapters this is a quick read but it is jam-packed and I highly recommend giving it a shot!
Thank you to NetGalley, Jessica Huntley, and Inkubator Books for this ARC!! Publication date is April 6th 2025.
Brittany Young is a pastry chef who is mourning the loss of her twin sister. When she discovers she is pregnant, she has no clue what to do. She has no way to take care of a baby and she is not maternal in the least. But Brittany's future seems to improve after meeting John and Angela Dalton, a wealthy couple who have offered Brittany a job at their extravagant villa. They also offer to adopt Brittany's baby and to raise it at their own. But soon Brittany notices strange things happening, John's behavior is more sinister than charming, and Angela is erratic and unstable. Brittany realizes that she is trapped in an increasingly dangerous game and she must find a way for her baby and her to escape.
An absolute roller coaster of a ride, this novel is so fast-paced I flew through it in a day! This is the third book by Huntley that I have read and I am already eagerly anticipating what she writes next! The characters were all well developed even if some were incredibly unstable and unlikable. With short punchy chapters this is a quick read but it is jam-packed and I highly recommend giving it a shot!
Thank you to NetGalley, Jessica Huntley, and Inkubator Books for this ARC!! Publication date is April 6th 2025.
March 9, 2025
The Good Parents by Jessica Huntley is so easy to jump right into! Brittany Young is a pastry chef in the cutthroat world of cuisine. She loves the artistry and precision involved but despises her boss so she makes some changes. Added to that stress is the sudden horrible loss of her twin sister. After discovering she's pregnant, she grows frantic as tries to stretch her dollars. When all seems lost, in the midst of unimaginable sorrow, a couple discovers her while waiting tables at another restaurant and after an interview, accepts their offer to travel to their French villa to be their personal pastry chef. Her financial worries melt away but others are added to the mix, especially when John and Angela act strangely. Plus they want Brittany's baby. As you can imagine, all sorts of things go wrong.
The pace is snappy and the characters well developed for a psychological thriller. Though not always realistic, the twists and suspense kept me glued to the pages. I like that the list of characters is short so there is no confusion or flipping back and forth. This is a very likeable book, compelling and unexpected with that special something impossible to put into words. I look forward to exploring the author's back catalogue and anticipate more from her in the future.
The pace is snappy and the characters well developed for a psychological thriller. Though not always realistic, the twists and suspense kept me glued to the pages. I like that the list of characters is short so there is no confusion or flipping back and forth. This is a very likeable book, compelling and unexpected with that special something impossible to put into words. I look forward to exploring the author's back catalogue and anticipate more from her in the future.
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