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Our Dream Home
Not yet published
Expected 25 Feb 26I never win anything. Not competitions. Not arguments. Not affection from my own children.
Most days, I’m just getting through – dodging teenage sarcasm, scraping fishfingers off plates, wishing my husband would just notice me once in a while.
Then came the emails. Win a car! Win a holiday! Win a house!
Spam, obviously. I blocked them.
But then I heard the radio. A real dream-home giveaway.
And for one moment – stuck between roadworks and honking horns – I let myself want something.
I texted in.
And suddenly my whole life changed.
Now we’re living in a house bigger than my wildest dreams – and my darkest nightmares.
Because the threats started almost immediately. Someone congratulating me . . . by name.
Someone who knows about the mistake that ruined everything sixteen years ago.
They know the truth. They want something from me.
And if I don’t give it to them, my lucky break will become a death sentence.
Most days, I’m just getting through – dodging teenage sarcasm, scraping fishfingers off plates, wishing my husband would just notice me once in a while.
Then came the emails. Win a car! Win a holiday! Win a house!
Spam, obviously. I blocked them.
But then I heard the radio. A real dream-home giveaway.
And for one moment – stuck between roadworks and honking horns – I let myself want something.
I texted in.
And suddenly my whole life changed.
Now we’re living in a house bigger than my wildest dreams – and my darkest nightmares.
Because the threats started almost immediately. Someone congratulating me . . . by name.
Someone who knows about the mistake that ruined everything sixteen years ago.
They know the truth. They want something from me.
And if I don’t give it to them, my lucky break will become a death sentence.
- GenresPsychological Thriller
Paperback
Expected publication February 25, 2026
6 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Huntley
22 books441 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 34 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Winning a million pound prize in a prize draw completely changes Fiona and her family's lives...but is that necessarily a good thing? Only time will tell.
Secrets and events of the past catch up with the present, like watching a car-crash in slow motion, while the feelings aroused in the reader are fascinatingly aweful.
Our Dream Home is unputdownable, as you'll find out. Grab it today and you'll be up all night to finish it in one sitting - I know I did!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Secrets and events of the past catch up with the present, like watching a car-crash in slow motion, while the feelings aroused in the reader are fascinatingly aweful.
Our Dream Home is unputdownable, as you'll find out. Grab it today and you'll be up all night to finish it in one sitting - I know I did!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 21, 2025
“Our Dream Home” by Jessica Huntley is a suspense-filled thriller that pulled me in from the very first page—and didn’t let go. What starts as the ultimate fantasy—winning a dream home—quickly spirals into a chilling nightmare. This story is packed with secrets and lies, creating an atmosphere of constant tension and unease. The ending is especially twisty and satisfying. I was completely hooked and ended up reading this in one sitting. A gripping, fast-paced read that proves dreams can come at a dangerous cost.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Our Dream Home is a gripping, emotionally charged psychological thriller that taps into something deeply relatable: the quiet longing for a life that feels just a little easier, a little brighter, a little more seen. Jessica Huntley takes that universal wish and twists it into a nightmare that unfolds with delicious tension.
The narrator’s voice is instantly compelling—funny, weary, and painfully honest. She’s a woman who feels invisible in her own home, worn down by teenage moods, endless chores, and a husband who barely seems to notice her. So when a dream‑home giveaway crosses her path, it’s no surprise she lets herself hope for once. And when she wins, it feels like the universe has finally thrown her a lifeline.
But Huntley wastes no time turning that fantasy into something far darker. The new house is everything she never thought she’d have… until the threats begin. The congratulatory messages that use her name. The reminders of a mistake she buried sixteen years ago. The chilling sense that someone has been waiting for this moment—waiting for her.
The tension builds beautifully. Huntley balances domestic realism with creeping dread, creating a story where the everyday and the sinister blend seamlessly. The protagonist’s guilt, fear, and desperation feel raw and real, and the sense of being watched—of being known—gives the book a claustrophobic edge that keeps the pages turning.
What makes the novel especially effective is how grounded it feels. This isn’t a heroine with a glamorous life or endless resources. She’s an ordinary woman who wanted a break, only to find herself trapped in a nightmare she can’t escape without confronting the past she’s spent years trying to outrun.
Our Dream Home is twisty, tense, and emotionally resonant—a thriller that understands how the smallest choices can echo for years, and how a single moment of hope can open the door to danger. Fans of domestic suspense will devour it. A sharp, addictive read that turns wish‑fulfilment into pure menace.
with thanks to Jessica Huntley, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The narrator’s voice is instantly compelling—funny, weary, and painfully honest. She’s a woman who feels invisible in her own home, worn down by teenage moods, endless chores, and a husband who barely seems to notice her. So when a dream‑home giveaway crosses her path, it’s no surprise she lets herself hope for once. And when she wins, it feels like the universe has finally thrown her a lifeline.
But Huntley wastes no time turning that fantasy into something far darker. The new house is everything she never thought she’d have… until the threats begin. The congratulatory messages that use her name. The reminders of a mistake she buried sixteen years ago. The chilling sense that someone has been waiting for this moment—waiting for her.
The tension builds beautifully. Huntley balances domestic realism with creeping dread, creating a story where the everyday and the sinister blend seamlessly. The protagonist’s guilt, fear, and desperation feel raw and real, and the sense of being watched—of being known—gives the book a claustrophobic edge that keeps the pages turning.
What makes the novel especially effective is how grounded it feels. This isn’t a heroine with a glamorous life or endless resources. She’s an ordinary woman who wanted a break, only to find herself trapped in a nightmare she can’t escape without confronting the past she’s spent years trying to outrun.
Our Dream Home is twisty, tense, and emotionally resonant—a thriller that understands how the smallest choices can echo for years, and how a single moment of hope can open the door to danger. Fans of domestic suspense will devour it. A sharp, addictive read that turns wish‑fulfilment into pure menace.
with thanks to Jessica Huntley, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you’re a fan of Jessica, you’re in for a thrilling experience filled with dark twists and suspenseful moments that remind you that nothing is quite what it seems!
Fiona, feeling defeated in life and relationships, receives emails about winning contests, which she initially dismisses as spam. However, after hearing about a dream-home giveaway on the radio, she decides to participate and unexpectedly wins a large house. But shortly after the win, she starts receiving threatening messages from someone who knows about a past mistake she made sixteen years ago. This person wants something from her, suggesting that her newfound luck might come with dire consequences.
Fiona has an intriguing backstory, and we gradually uncover her trauma towards the end of the book. It kept me on my toes, making me suspicious of every character. I did manage to predict one of the twists, which seemed purposely designed to mislead us later. Fiona came off as quite naive for believing she won a contest, but her participation made it all very believable! Portraying these characters as ordinary, everyday people adds depth to the read. We all know that if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is worth questioning.
The descriptions of the house, the neighbors, and the extra money were vivid, yet I found it frustrating that Fiona and George were so dishonest with each other! I truly didn’t see the ending coming, nor some of the twists.
If you enjoy short chapters, tales of dark pasts that come back to haunt you, or are just looking for a fast-paced read, then this is for you. Expect the unexpected, and next time you buy a lottery ticket, be cautious—you never know who might be pulling the strings behind the scenes. Don’t miss out on Jessica’s work; it’s fantastic, and she always manages to keep me guessing!
Thank you, Joffe Books and Netgalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fiona, feeling defeated in life and relationships, receives emails about winning contests, which she initially dismisses as spam. However, after hearing about a dream-home giveaway on the radio, she decides to participate and unexpectedly wins a large house. But shortly after the win, she starts receiving threatening messages from someone who knows about a past mistake she made sixteen years ago. This person wants something from her, suggesting that her newfound luck might come with dire consequences.
Fiona has an intriguing backstory, and we gradually uncover her trauma towards the end of the book. It kept me on my toes, making me suspicious of every character. I did manage to predict one of the twists, which seemed purposely designed to mislead us later. Fiona came off as quite naive for believing she won a contest, but her participation made it all very believable! Portraying these characters as ordinary, everyday people adds depth to the read. We all know that if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is worth questioning.
The descriptions of the house, the neighbors, and the extra money were vivid, yet I found it frustrating that Fiona and George were so dishonest with each other! I truly didn’t see the ending coming, nor some of the twists.
If you enjoy short chapters, tales of dark pasts that come back to haunt you, or are just looking for a fast-paced read, then this is for you. Expect the unexpected, and next time you buy a lottery ticket, be cautious—you never know who might be pulling the strings behind the scenes. Don’t miss out on Jessica’s work; it’s fantastic, and she always manages to keep me guessing!
Thank you, Joffe Books and Netgalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
Fiona is living some of the typical frustrations of motherhood and partnership. Her two children - Heather and Liam - are fully invested in their own wants and needs and deeply disinterested (Heather, especially) in listening to her. Her husband? Meh. He seems okay, but there's tension brewing with him, too. She's frustrated he won't back her up and that he makes the most basic request of the kids and typically gets an automatic and favorable response. They're fine...just not much more than that.
Things change dramatically for the whole family when Fiona lands an outrageous prize by winning a radio station contest! She scores a new, large home in the country and a nice wad of cash to get started there. Hilariously, the family isn't even totally enthused about this (because, you know, the messenger), but they finally mobilize and head to the country.
Talk about things changing dramatically. They do again - in shocking ways that require suspending disbelief - the whole time they are in their new digs. Long buried secrets threaten to surface, danger looms, and relationships and circumstances may change permanently. No one - and no information - can be safe.
I've really enjoyed past reads by this author, and the same is true here. I do think readers will do best to come at this one suspending all disbelief and expecting a fun/wild ride versus something that feels more realistic. There are some coincidences/circumstances that felt a little over the top in terms of believability for the characters and for readers. That noted, the fun element is definitely here. I tore through this short read and will look forward to doing that again with this author many more times.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Fiona is living some of the typical frustrations of motherhood and partnership. Her two children - Heather and Liam - are fully invested in their own wants and needs and deeply disinterested (Heather, especially) in listening to her. Her husband? Meh. He seems okay, but there's tension brewing with him, too. She's frustrated he won't back her up and that he makes the most basic request of the kids and typically gets an automatic and favorable response. They're fine...just not much more than that.
Things change dramatically for the whole family when Fiona lands an outrageous prize by winning a radio station contest! She scores a new, large home in the country and a nice wad of cash to get started there. Hilariously, the family isn't even totally enthused about this (because, you know, the messenger), but they finally mobilize and head to the country.
Talk about things changing dramatically. They do again - in shocking ways that require suspending disbelief - the whole time they are in their new digs. Long buried secrets threaten to surface, danger looms, and relationships and circumstances may change permanently. No one - and no information - can be safe.
I've really enjoyed past reads by this author, and the same is true here. I do think readers will do best to come at this one suspending all disbelief and expecting a fun/wild ride versus something that feels more realistic. There are some coincidences/circumstances that felt a little over the top in terms of believability for the characters and for readers. That noted, the fun element is definitely here. I tore through this short read and will look forward to doing that again with this author many more times.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Our Dream House is the definition of an easy, bingeable thriller. The pacing is brisk, the chapters are short, and the story flows so smoothly you barely notice how quickly you’re flying through it. Jessica Huntley clearly knows how to keep a reader hooked, especially with a premise built around a supposedly perfect prize that predictably turns out to be anything but.
The plot moves along at a good clip and, while it’s engaging, it’s also fairly easy to see where things are heading. None of the twists exactly knocked the breath out of me, but they were entertaining enough that I didn’t mind guessing correctly a little ahead of schedule. Sometimes predictability is fine, as long as the ride is fun, and for the most part, it is.
Where the book stumbled for me was in the characters, particularly the teenagers. Some of them felt less like actual humans and more like walking cautionary tales. I found myself wondering if every fictional teen is contractually obligated to be dramatic, impulsive, and exhausting. On the plus side, the teenagers in this book made me love my own children even more, so there’s that. If nothing else, Our Dream House doubles as a parenting confidence booster.
The adults aren’t immune either, with a few characters sketched just deeply enough to serve the plot and then politely step aside. A bit more depth would have elevated the tension and emotional payoff, but Huntley seems far more interested in momentum than nuance, and to be fair, momentum is her strength.
Overall, Our Dream House is a solid, entertaining thriller that doesn’t ask much of the reader and doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s not groundbreaking, and it won’t linger with you long after the final page, but it’s a satisfying read that earns its four stars through sheer readability alone. Perfect if you want suspense without the mental gymnastics.
The plot moves along at a good clip and, while it’s engaging, it’s also fairly easy to see where things are heading. None of the twists exactly knocked the breath out of me, but they were entertaining enough that I didn’t mind guessing correctly a little ahead of schedule. Sometimes predictability is fine, as long as the ride is fun, and for the most part, it is.
Where the book stumbled for me was in the characters, particularly the teenagers. Some of them felt less like actual humans and more like walking cautionary tales. I found myself wondering if every fictional teen is contractually obligated to be dramatic, impulsive, and exhausting. On the plus side, the teenagers in this book made me love my own children even more, so there’s that. If nothing else, Our Dream House doubles as a parenting confidence booster.
The adults aren’t immune either, with a few characters sketched just deeply enough to serve the plot and then politely step aside. A bit more depth would have elevated the tension and emotional payoff, but Huntley seems far more interested in momentum than nuance, and to be fair, momentum is her strength.
Overall, Our Dream House is a solid, entertaining thriller that doesn’t ask much of the reader and doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s not groundbreaking, and it won’t linger with you long after the final page, but it’s a satisfying read that earns its four stars through sheer readability alone. Perfect if you want suspense without the mental gymnastics.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Release date 25th February
Our Dream Home
By Jessica Huntley
My rating is a big ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What an incredibly gripping and suspenseful psychological thriller Our Dream Home is by Jessica Huntley.
This starts out getting to know the Howden family and Fiona's difficult struggles with her teenage daughter Heather and son Liam, her husband not much help giving her nobacking and builds up into an high speed crazy plot of revenge for a 16 year old mistake, a kept secret, a decision Fiona Howden felt was the right thing to do at the time, not knowing it would come back to haunt her in later years.
Fiona starts getting inundated with spam emails, win a house, win a car or win a holiday, all blocked and deleted.
When stuck in roadworks over the car radio announcing a competition 'win a house' Fiona knows the answer and takes the chance and sends the text.
The next day brings a life-changing email, and two weeks later the family move into this huge house.
This should be a dream start to a comfortable new life, but with the excessively over-friendly next-door neighbours it soon becomes apparent to Fiona that something is off, it seems they all hide secrets and tension grows between the Howdens and their neighbours.
Our Dream Home is an extremely well-written book by Jessica that had me gobsmacked, I was blown away and kept guessing right through until the end, I had no clue who the culprit was, who was in cahoots with them, it could have been anyone.
The characters are superb and really believable, very well described and visually stunning.
It was like What the hell is going on here, I found it almost impossible to put this book down, I was totally hooked.
Release date 25th February
Our Dream Home
By Jessica Huntley
My rating is a big ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What an incredibly gripping and suspenseful psychological thriller Our Dream Home is by Jessica Huntley.
This starts out getting to know the Howden family and Fiona's difficult struggles with her teenage daughter Heather and son Liam, her husband not much help giving her nobacking and builds up into an high speed crazy plot of revenge for a 16 year old mistake, a kept secret, a decision Fiona Howden felt was the right thing to do at the time, not knowing it would come back to haunt her in later years.
Fiona starts getting inundated with spam emails, win a house, win a car or win a holiday, all blocked and deleted.
When stuck in roadworks over the car radio announcing a competition 'win a house' Fiona knows the answer and takes the chance and sends the text.
The next day brings a life-changing email, and two weeks later the family move into this huge house.
This should be a dream start to a comfortable new life, but with the excessively over-friendly next-door neighbours it soon becomes apparent to Fiona that something is off, it seems they all hide secrets and tension grows between the Howdens and their neighbours.
Our Dream Home is an extremely well-written book by Jessica that had me gobsmacked, I was blown away and kept guessing right through until the end, I had no clue who the culprit was, who was in cahoots with them, it could have been anyone.
The characters are superb and really believable, very well described and visually stunning.
It was like What the hell is going on here, I found it almost impossible to put this book down, I was totally hooked.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75 ⭐️
A fresh, unexpected premise and a creeping sense of unease made this one hard to put down.
Our Dream Home hooked me right away with its relatable setup—an overlooked wife and mother who finally catches a break… or so it seems. Winning a dream house should feel like a fairy tale, but Jessica Huntley does a great job of flipping that idea on its head and slowly turning it into something unsettling. The premise itself felt unique and not something I’ve read before, which immediately pulled me in.
I liked how easy this was to fall into, with short chapters and a steady build of tension. The unease creeps in quietly at first and then tightens as secrets from the past start resurfacing. While a few aspects felt a bit unbelievable at times and some of the characters leaned slightly over the top, I was still fully absorbed in Huntley’s storytelling and curious to see how everything would unravel.
I am a big supporter of Jessica Huntley. I’ve read three of her novels—I Will Find You, The Good Parents, and Pretty Little Lies—and each one was unique in its own way. I love Huntley’s writing style; it’s fast-paced, easy to settle into, and quietly unsettling in the best way.
Overall, this was a fast, bingeable read that plays on guilt, fear, and the idea that sometimes getting everything you want comes at a terrifying cost. A solid choice if you enjoy domestic thrillers with a dark edge and plenty of suspense.
A big thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
A fresh, unexpected premise and a creeping sense of unease made this one hard to put down.
Our Dream Home hooked me right away with its relatable setup—an overlooked wife and mother who finally catches a break… or so it seems. Winning a dream house should feel like a fairy tale, but Jessica Huntley does a great job of flipping that idea on its head and slowly turning it into something unsettling. The premise itself felt unique and not something I’ve read before, which immediately pulled me in.
I liked how easy this was to fall into, with short chapters and a steady build of tension. The unease creeps in quietly at first and then tightens as secrets from the past start resurfacing. While a few aspects felt a bit unbelievable at times and some of the characters leaned slightly over the top, I was still fully absorbed in Huntley’s storytelling and curious to see how everything would unravel.
I am a big supporter of Jessica Huntley. I’ve read three of her novels—I Will Find You, The Good Parents, and Pretty Little Lies—and each one was unique in its own way. I love Huntley’s writing style; it’s fast-paced, easy to settle into, and quietly unsettling in the best way.
Overall, this was a fast, bingeable read that plays on guilt, fear, and the idea that sometimes getting everything you want comes at a terrifying cost. A solid choice if you enjoy domestic thrillers with a dark edge and plenty of suspense.
A big thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As this book opened, I was prepared for one story, but the author then quickly changed direction. She did it well, and as I settled into the storytelling, I almost forgot about the first chapter of the book. Ms. Huntley knew what she was doing, and she planned this novel well. This was an entertaining work of fiction.
Fiona has been through some hard things in her life, but it seems like she’s doing okay. She’s married with two kids. Life isn’t easy, but it’s good. They could always have more money. Fiona’s relationship with her fifteen-year-old daughter could be a bit less contentious, but kids will be kids. Fiona dreams of an easier life, family vacations and a house that’s a bit larger just like everyone does. When she’s in the car one day, she hears about a contest on a local radio station. They’re offering their listeners a chance to win the opportunity to live in a large mansion for free for a full year plus a large amount of prize money. Although Fiona isn’t someone who usually wins contests, she decides she’s got nothing to lose. Imagine her surprise when this time she is the winner.
This is when the author starts throwing in some serious twists and turns. Things are not at all what they seem. To say more would give too much away, but I will say that the first chapter comes back around, and the story comes full circle.
Our Dream Home was a very enjoyable read, and the ending was quite satisfying.
Fiona has been through some hard things in her life, but it seems like she’s doing okay. She’s married with two kids. Life isn’t easy, but it’s good. They could always have more money. Fiona’s relationship with her fifteen-year-old daughter could be a bit less contentious, but kids will be kids. Fiona dreams of an easier life, family vacations and a house that’s a bit larger just like everyone does. When she’s in the car one day, she hears about a contest on a local radio station. They’re offering their listeners a chance to win the opportunity to live in a large mansion for free for a full year plus a large amount of prize money. Although Fiona isn’t someone who usually wins contests, she decides she’s got nothing to lose. Imagine her surprise when this time she is the winner.
This is when the author starts throwing in some serious twists and turns. Things are not at all what they seem. To say more would give too much away, but I will say that the first chapter comes back around, and the story comes full circle.
Our Dream Home was a very enjoyable read, and the ending was quite satisfying.
Read
December 28, 2025Who hasn't wanted to win a dream home and a bunch of money, right? Of course, it all sounds too good to be true. In Our Dream Home, it is life-changing.
I couldn't put this book down! While the writing style was quite simple, I think it suited the book well. In fact, it made it easier to consume it fast!
Struggling with past trauma, the mundane tasks of motherhood, and life unfulfilling in general, we meet the long-suffering main character, Fiona, whom I was immediately rooting for. I particularly loved that most of the characters started off highly unlikable, and how some of them redeemed themselves towards the end, whilst the others, let's just say, chose a different path.
My favourite part has to be a line in chapter 11. A genuine jaw-dropping moment for me, followed by well-deserved hollering haha. All I'm going to say is, after this, I couldn't read fast enough.
I thoroughly enjoyed guessing who was behind what and was genuinely surprised, and shocked, multiple times, but also loved seeing Fiona's personal growth. I would recommend Our Dream Home to anyone who enjoys quick, twisty thrillers and being on the edge of their seats!
I want to thank the author, Jessica Huntley and Netgalley for the opportunity to read Our Dream Home from Netgalley Reader before its release.
3,75 ⭐ (unable to give stars in the rating due to not being an ARC!)
I couldn't put this book down! While the writing style was quite simple, I think it suited the book well. In fact, it made it easier to consume it fast!
Struggling with past trauma, the mundane tasks of motherhood, and life unfulfilling in general, we meet the long-suffering main character, Fiona, whom I was immediately rooting for. I particularly loved that most of the characters started off highly unlikable, and how some of them redeemed themselves towards the end, whilst the others, let's just say, chose a different path.
My favourite part has to be a line in chapter 11. A genuine jaw-dropping moment for me, followed by well-deserved hollering haha. All I'm going to say is, after this, I couldn't read fast enough.
I thoroughly enjoyed guessing who was behind what and was genuinely surprised, and shocked, multiple times, but also loved seeing Fiona's personal growth. I would recommend Our Dream Home to anyone who enjoys quick, twisty thrillers and being on the edge of their seats!
I want to thank the author, Jessica Huntley and Netgalley for the opportunity to read Our Dream Home from Netgalley Reader before its release.
3,75 ⭐ (unable to give stars in the rating due to not being an ARC!)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Holy shish kebabs!!! Talk about dark and creepy!! Our Dream Home by Jessica Huntley rates right up there as being one of the most sinister books I've read in a long while. The amount of gaslighting alone could have set one heck of a massive fire.
When Fiona enters a radio contest and wins a luxury home along with a boat load of cash she believes her troubles and worries are a thing of the past. Little does she know, but will soon realize, this is the beginning of her troubles. Because of course she is hiding a whopper of a secret from her entire family. Thinking she is the only one who knows it, she is shocked to her very core when she realizes she is not the only one privy to her secret. How far will that person go to exact revenge and ruin Fiona's life?
This was one deliciously twisty roller-coaster ride that had me hanging on to the edge of my seat. The suspense never let up and the ending was an explosive holy moly, no way did that just happen jaw dropper. I was so blown away by the gripping and intense premise of this book. If you like mind blowing, twisty, psychological drama, this is a must read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy
When Fiona enters a radio contest and wins a luxury home along with a boat load of cash she believes her troubles and worries are a thing of the past. Little does she know, but will soon realize, this is the beginning of her troubles. Because of course she is hiding a whopper of a secret from her entire family. Thinking she is the only one who knows it, she is shocked to her very core when she realizes she is not the only one privy to her secret. How far will that person go to exact revenge and ruin Fiona's life?
This was one deliciously twisty roller-coaster ride that had me hanging on to the edge of my seat. The suspense never let up and the ending was an explosive holy moly, no way did that just happen jaw dropper. I was so blown away by the gripping and intense premise of this book. If you like mind blowing, twisty, psychological drama, this is a must read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe Books for the advanced copy
December 30, 2025
I’m so very proud to say I am ending my reading year with an exceptional read by an author I absolutely love.
I don’t know if you, Jessica, get to see this feedback but if you so happen to… wow ! I absolutely loved this.
I said this last time in my last read of yours that it was my favourite of yours yet but I think this one has topped it.
This is the perfect popcorn thriller, you just have to read more ! It was suspense and twisty and I loved Fiona ! She resonated so much with me and I’m not sure why. I just loved her and I just need more of her, I could have easily have read another 200 pages of her but that being said, for this book to be any longer I think it wouldn’t have been as great (I hope that makes sense)
There is a character I absolutely LOATHE in this book and I’m sure if you read this, you’ll feel the same. They were awful and very well written- to get this much of a visceral response - HA!
Edit:
I forgot to mention I guessed one of the main twists very early on but honestly… I didn’t even mind it was so fun. The ending I did not see coming
I don’t know if you, Jessica, get to see this feedback but if you so happen to… wow ! I absolutely loved this.
I said this last time in my last read of yours that it was my favourite of yours yet but I think this one has topped it.
This is the perfect popcorn thriller, you just have to read more ! It was suspense and twisty and I loved Fiona ! She resonated so much with me and I’m not sure why. I just loved her and I just need more of her, I could have easily have read another 200 pages of her but that being said, for this book to be any longer I think it wouldn’t have been as great (I hope that makes sense)
There is a character I absolutely LOATHE in this book and I’m sure if you read this, you’ll feel the same. They were awful and very well written- to get this much of a visceral response - HA!
Edit:
I forgot to mention I guessed one of the main twists very early on but honestly… I didn’t even mind it was so fun. The ending I did not see coming
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is Jessica Huntley at her best. A dark and tricky page turner from the start with hints of more to come.
Fiona is locked into a humdrum marriage that has gone stale, a boring job that is going nowhere and a tiny house with no prospect of upsizing. Her husband ignores her and is engrossed in his work and her kids resent her.
After receiving numerous spam e-mails informing her that she has won a blah blah blah, she finds herself in a traffic jam and the radio announces a competition for a multi-million pound house and £100,000 cash and all bills paid for twelve months. Too good to be true but out of boredom she fires of a text with what she knows is the the winning answer.
Unbelievebly she receives a phone call from the station, she has won first prize. Her wildest dreams have come true but her nightmare has just begun. Her dark past catches up with her and the dream turns sour.
This is a mothers determination to survive and keep her kids safe. Twist after thrilling twist from start to finish.
Fiona is locked into a humdrum marriage that has gone stale, a boring job that is going nowhere and a tiny house with no prospect of upsizing. Her husband ignores her and is engrossed in his work and her kids resent her.
After receiving numerous spam e-mails informing her that she has won a blah blah blah, she finds herself in a traffic jam and the radio announces a competition for a multi-million pound house and £100,000 cash and all bills paid for twelve months. Too good to be true but out of boredom she fires of a text with what she knows is the the winning answer.
Unbelievebly she receives a phone call from the station, she has won first prize. Her wildest dreams have come true but her nightmare has just begun. Her dark past catches up with her and the dream turns sour.
This is a mothers determination to survive and keep her kids safe. Twist after thrilling twist from start to finish.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Psychological thrillers are always ones to pull me in as you never know what could happen. The twists that can transpire have me on the edge of my seat wanting to know as I never know what to expect.
This book gave me Freida McFadden vibes, but a bit more all over the place with descriptions and inner monologue. It definitely had me pushing through the pages in the beginning as the setup felt very...depressed and chaotic at the same time. The anxiety tick grated me as I felt the pain internally.
But once I arrived a bit further in, it finally got me into the story. Reading about the house, the neighbors, the plot twists - I couldn't put it down. I was entranced to know what could happen next, if any of my guesses were right, and how it would end. I enjoyed the book, but personally, the beginning dragged on and the end was lackluster and not how I would see such a twisty book ending.
Four stars for rating as the plot definitely kept me on my toes. <3
This book gave me Freida McFadden vibes, but a bit more all over the place with descriptions and inner monologue. It definitely had me pushing through the pages in the beginning as the setup felt very...depressed and chaotic at the same time. The anxiety tick grated me as I felt the pain internally.
But once I arrived a bit further in, it finally got me into the story. Reading about the house, the neighbors, the plot twists - I couldn't put it down. I was entranced to know what could happen next, if any of my guesses were right, and how it would end. I enjoyed the book, but personally, the beginning dragged on and the end was lackluster and not how I would see such a twisty book ending.
Four stars for rating as the plot definitely kept me on my toes. <3
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Dream Home is a mix between suspense and disbelief and can be read in one sitting.
Fiona is a downward spiral where she feels where her children don't value and her husband doesn't support her. An offer of a luxury home which is too good to believe creates an illusion of a dream come true.
The author unveils her main protagonist at the very beginning. Though it's refreshing it also becomes easy to predict the course of the book. Fiona is a well written and relatable character. However certain plot points require you to suspend belief to accept them. As a reader, you know that certain characters are shady if they don't meet the requirements of the role. Like doing a thorough check when you win something.
The climax could have been better and a bit more intelligent than the TV show route it took.
Overall it's a great read as it's short and crisp
and to the point.
I thank Joffe Books and NetGalley for the E-Arc and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fiona is a downward spiral where she feels where her children don't value and her husband doesn't support her. An offer of a luxury home which is too good to believe creates an illusion of a dream come true.
The author unveils her main protagonist at the very beginning. Though it's refreshing it also becomes easy to predict the course of the book. Fiona is a well written and relatable character. However certain plot points require you to suspend belief to accept them. As a reader, you know that certain characters are shady if they don't meet the requirements of the role. Like doing a thorough check when you win something.
The climax could have been better and a bit more intelligent than the TV show route it took.
Overall it's a great read as it's short and crisp
and to the point.
I thank Joffe Books and NetGalley for the E-Arc and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Most people dream of winning the lottery - and yet lottery winners are notorious for not being as happy as one might think. For an overlooked wife and mother, this turns of to be the case in this story as well (albeit for very different reasons).
After a big win that includes a lavish home, the protagonist discovers that the secret she has been keeping from her family is now at risk. This creates a genuine dilemma for her, and an entertaining story for the reader.
It is an absorbing and creepy story but it does require quite a suspension of disbelief and the pacing at the start could certainly be improved. Nevertheless, I really like Jessica Huntley's writing, so it gets 3.5 stars. I suspect most thriller readers will enjoy it quite a lot.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
After a big win that includes a lavish home, the protagonist discovers that the secret she has been keeping from her family is now at risk. This creates a genuine dilemma for her, and an entertaining story for the reader.
It is an absorbing and creepy story but it does require quite a suspension of disbelief and the pacing at the start could certainly be improved. Nevertheless, I really like Jessica Huntley's writing, so it gets 3.5 stars. I suspect most thriller readers will enjoy it quite a lot.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Received as an ARC through Netgalley, this is an honest review.
Thanks to Joffe Books for the approval to read this book.
While the writing of Our Dream Home flows and made it an easy read; parts of the narrative story are way too predictable that the outcome ruins the experience of reading the book. Its strengths are in the characters as Fiona battles a secret she never thought would end could ruin her family; how this affects Fiona's husband and children was well written with depth and emotion. The book's main problem for myself as the author paints the story into an inescapable corner right from the beginning with the secret Fiona wants to remain hidden... that your know won't. And once the family is residing in the 'Dream Home', the stark truth Fiona is forced to laid bare through how the story becomes 'complicated' feels too much taken from over done soap operas.
Thanks to Joffe Books for the approval to read this book.
While the writing of Our Dream Home flows and made it an easy read; parts of the narrative story are way too predictable that the outcome ruins the experience of reading the book. Its strengths are in the characters as Fiona battles a secret she never thought would end could ruin her family; how this affects Fiona's husband and children was well written with depth and emotion. The book's main problem for myself as the author paints the story into an inescapable corner right from the beginning with the secret Fiona wants to remain hidden... that your know won't. And once the family is residing in the 'Dream Home', the stark truth Fiona is forced to laid bare through how the story becomes 'complicated' feels too much taken from over done soap operas.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fiona doesn't feel seen, heard or noticed by her family - or anyone. Until she wins a multimillion Pound house in the country.
She is totally happy, until she finds out who her neighbour is.
I really enjoy Jessica Huntley's novels, and while I enjoyed this one, it was a little slow to begin with.
I liked the Fiona character, I think many women feel they disappear into the paintwork at some point of their lives. Feel like they are bringing up their children solo, running a home, trying to please a husband as well as holding down a job. Unloved and unappreciated.
Fiona is a strong woman. She had a mastectomy and did not have a reconstruction. It doesn't faze her in the least.
All she really wants is some recognition. And support.
What she gets after winning the house is something completely different.
Very good novel. 4/5 stars from me.
She is totally happy, until she finds out who her neighbour is.
I really enjoy Jessica Huntley's novels, and while I enjoyed this one, it was a little slow to begin with.
I liked the Fiona character, I think many women feel they disappear into the paintwork at some point of their lives. Feel like they are bringing up their children solo, running a home, trying to please a husband as well as holding down a job. Unloved and unappreciated.
Fiona is a strong woman. She had a mastectomy and did not have a reconstruction. It doesn't faze her in the least.
All she really wants is some recognition. And support.
What she gets after winning the house is something completely different.
Very good novel. 4/5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this book. Well plotted & paced. Fiona is a survivor. She works hard, she looks after her husband, 2x teenage children and their rented home. All after recovering from breast cancer. Like many in her position she feels unappreciated, dealing with a distant husband and surly teenagers. But when she enters a radio competition to win a year of free living & expenses in a dream Cotswolds home, Fiona feels like her luck is finally turning. But after their move to the new & perfect surroundings, things don’t feel right. Fiona has been hiding a secret from her past and it now seems this has caught up with her. It can’t be a coincidence can it? A fast moving story that kept me turning each page eagerly. Highly recommended. Thanks to the author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoy Jessica Huntley’s writing style - it’s polished and engaging - but Our Dream Home was just too slow for me without enough of a payoff.
The prologue definitely hooked me, but when it finally came back around at the end, it felt like a total let-down. I kept waiting for certain details to matter - like Fiona’s history with breast cancer or Huntley specifically calling out that the game room was soundproof - but they never actually impacted the story. Even the twists, while not totally obvious, didn't feel shocking or unique enough to make the slow build-up worth it.
It’s a beautifully written book, but the lack of momentum and empty details made this a middle-of-the-road read for me.
#OurDreamHome #NetGalley
The prologue definitely hooked me, but when it finally came back around at the end, it felt like a total let-down. I kept waiting for certain details to matter - like Fiona’s history with breast cancer or Huntley specifically calling out that the game room was soundproof - but they never actually impacted the story. Even the twists, while not totally obvious, didn't feel shocking or unique enough to make the slow build-up worth it.
It’s a beautifully written book, but the lack of momentum and empty details made this a middle-of-the-road read for me.
#OurDreamHome #NetGalley
Review of advance copy
Are you lucky at winning anything?
Fiona is a loving mother of 2 kids, married to a great guy George. She finds that she is getting bombarded by spam texts and emails, and she knows that they are scams! Then one day, on a radio station she doesn't even know, has a questionnaire... and she knows the answer! She never wins anything, why try?? Well, it is only sending in a text with the answer. So, she does.
Things take a whirlwind in her life, actually the whole family!
When something good comes into your life, do you wait for 'the other shoe to fall'?
This story is good for most, and it has a completely unexpected ending.
Thank you, Jessica Huntley, for another great psychological Thriller.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Fiona is a loving mother of 2 kids, married to a great guy George. She finds that she is getting bombarded by spam texts and emails, and she knows that they are scams! Then one day, on a radio station she doesn't even know, has a questionnaire... and she knows the answer! She never wins anything, why try?? Well, it is only sending in a text with the answer. So, she does.
Things take a whirlwind in her life, actually the whole family!
When something good comes into your life, do you wait for 'the other shoe to fall'?
This story is good for most, and it has a completely unexpected ending.
Thank you, Jessica Huntley, for another great psychological Thriller.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Our Dream Home by Jessica Huntley starts with an intriguing hook: a worn‑down mom who never wins anything suddenly lands a luxury house through a giveaway she barely meant to enter. The sudden windfall quickly turns sour as threatening messages appear and someone from her past makes it clear they know exactly what she’s been hiding. The premise is strong, and the story moves at a brisk pace with plenty of twists to keep things lively.
I found myself rooting for the mom as everything spirals, and the tension stays steady throughout. The book delivers the kind of twist‑heavy suspense that makes for an easy, engaging read. If you enjoy domestic thrillers built on secrets, pressure, and a family pushed to the edge, this one offers a satisfying dose of that chaos.
I found myself rooting for the mom as everything spirals, and the tension stays steady throughout. The book delivers the kind of twist‑heavy suspense that makes for an easy, engaging read. If you enjoy domestic thrillers built on secrets, pressure, and a family pushed to the edge, this one offers a satisfying dose of that chaos.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
**Thank you NetGalley and Joffe books for an advanced reader copy**
I feel like I could resonate with the mom in this book. Stretched thin, constant laundry and chores and feeling invisible in your own house.
Fiona a mother to 2 teenagers and a wife, is feeling defeated in her life, her 2 kids barely speak with her and her husband just exists in the house. She enters a radio competition and ends up winning their dream home, but little does she know, it ends up being her worse nightmare. She has hidden a big secret from her family and moving into this house will expose her secret!
The deception, the lies and betrayals at the end were so good! Would recommend this book!
I feel like I could resonate with the mom in this book. Stretched thin, constant laundry and chores and feeling invisible in your own house.
Fiona a mother to 2 teenagers and a wife, is feeling defeated in her life, her 2 kids barely speak with her and her husband just exists in the house. She enters a radio competition and ends up winning their dream home, but little does she know, it ends up being her worse nightmare. She has hidden a big secret from her family and moving into this house will expose her secret!
The deception, the lies and betrayals at the end were so good! Would recommend this book!
Review of advance copy
For context, I am a slow reader and I get distracted easily. But this book kept me on my toes. First few chapters was just fine, setting up the scene and all. When things started happening.. wait wait! Who is the mad man here? If you love Freida McFadden's writing, you'd definitely love this! When the plot was revealed, it felt a bit off. Like it was rushed. Why am I on the final chapter already? Then I read the epilogue.. omg this can't be any better! Where is the Book 2! I need it now!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thought this was an excellent psychological thriller. It was a page turner for me as I wanted to know what would happen next. As usual the main character has some flaws but does she deserve all of the things happening to her? Even if you figure out the true villain of the story in advance, be prepared for the shocking twists the author promises.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Another edge-of-your-seat thriller from Jessica Huntley!
Huntley is the master of crafting novels that make you lose track of time! She provides just enough suspense to make you NEED to flip the page! Brilliant!
I sensed there was something to be wary of with Fiona’s new home and the circumstances surrounding her win, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it! Loved the twists and reveals!
Highly recommend!
Huntley is the master of crafting novels that make you lose track of time! She provides just enough suspense to make you NEED to flip the page! Brilliant!
I sensed there was something to be wary of with Fiona’s new home and the circumstances surrounding her win, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it! Loved the twists and reveals!
Highly recommend!
January 11, 2026
Her books just get better with each one that is released and I don't know how that is possible.
This book is so cleverly written and I couldn't get enough. I didn't want it to end but also I had to know what was coming.
I will think of this book whenever I see the ads on TV to win a dream home, it was just brilliant.
This book is so cleverly written and I couldn't get enough. I didn't want it to end but also I had to know what was coming.
I will think of this book whenever I see the ads on TV to win a dream home, it was just brilliant.
January 12, 2026
Fantastic book!!
The beginning of this book is so relatable – an overworked, underappreciated mom who feels like she gets lost in her day in and day out, mundane life. The thrill of winning a home almost seems too good to be true, until it proves that it is!
The plot twists are unmatched and the ending is superb!
The beginning of this book is so relatable – an overworked, underappreciated mom who feels like she gets lost in her day in and day out, mundane life. The thrill of winning a home almost seems too good to be true, until it proves that it is!
The plot twists are unmatched and the ending is superb!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a twisty twister ! Fiona and George were very unlikeable. The person greeting her by name of the win didn’t exactly happen and wasn’t what I thought.
It was a really good story though. I don’t think it was really a thriller but a sort of mystery. I’m not sure really but a good read nonetheless.
It was a really good story though. I don’t think it was really a thriller but a sort of mystery. I’m not sure really but a good read nonetheless.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark, twisty, and tense, Our Dream Home turns a fairytale win into a living nightmare. Jessica Huntley expertly peels back secrets, guilt, and paranoia, proving that some prizes come with a terrifying price—and the truth always collects its debt.
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