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Newbourne Park
Not yet published
Expected 29 Sep 26Saltburn with werewolves in the darkly hilarious new novel from Goodreads Choice Award finalist Jennifer Thorne, perfect for fans of Grady Hendrix and Sarah Gailey
After years of caring for her dying mother, Martha Shaw feels empty, exhausted, and far older than her twenty-six years. So when her brother invites her to a weekend getaway at the opulent, two-hundred-acre country estate where his friend works, Martha reluctantly agrees. After all, what's the harm? The owners and all their staff will be gone. Security cameras will be off. The house will be theirs. For the first time in years, Martha might actually have fun.
And it is fun, taking advantage of the historic mega-mansion and its vast grounds. Martha begins to feel human again. But when night falls, the rightful master of Newbourne Park returns—and she's not alone. Suddenly, being caught trespassing is the least of their worries, because what steps out into the moonlight is something vicious. And hungry.
What began as a lark becomes a bloody battle for survival, where greed and morality collide—and a woman must choose to bow, break, or bite back.
From the author of Diavola comes another wickedly funny horror about dysfunctional families, class, and other things that howl at the moon.
After years of caring for her dying mother, Martha Shaw feels empty, exhausted, and far older than her twenty-six years. So when her brother invites her to a weekend getaway at the opulent, two-hundred-acre country estate where his friend works, Martha reluctantly agrees. After all, what's the harm? The owners and all their staff will be gone. Security cameras will be off. The house will be theirs. For the first time in years, Martha might actually have fun.
And it is fun, taking advantage of the historic mega-mansion and its vast grounds. Martha begins to feel human again. But when night falls, the rightful master of Newbourne Park returns—and she's not alone. Suddenly, being caught trespassing is the least of their worries, because what steps out into the moonlight is something vicious. And hungry.
What began as a lark becomes a bloody battle for survival, where greed and morality collide—and a woman must choose to bow, break, or bite back.
From the author of Diavola comes another wickedly funny horror about dysfunctional families, class, and other things that howl at the moon.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 29, 2026
About the author
Jennifer Marie Thorne
14 books1,243 followersJennifer Thorne is the British-American author of Lute and Diavola (a USA Today bestseller), published by Tor/Nightfire, and the forthcoming Newbourne Park (Putnam). With Lee Kelly, she is co-author of The Antiquity Affair (2023), The Starlets (2024), and My Fair Frauds (2025) published by HarperMuse, as well as The Midnight Show (2026) published by Crown. As Jenn Marie Thorne, she is the author of the YA novels The Wrong Side of Right, The Inside of Out, and Night Music. Her short fiction has appeared in horror anthology One Bad Night and Other Stories and YA anthology Battle of the Bands. She is also the author of the picture book Construction Zoo. She currently lives in Gloucestershire, England with her husband and two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 17, 2026
Newbourne Park is delicious. The characters are wonderfully complex, and layer after layer is slowly revealed as the story progresses. Martha, our protagonist, is your average girl. A tragic set of circumstances finds her leaving her pedestrian lifestyle for Newbourne Park, the grand home of a family listed among Debrett’s peerages. Newbourne Park is beautifully luxurious - and the home of Lady Lambert’s monthly “gathering”, a diverse set of individuals with one thing in common: lycanthropy. Martha quickly realizes the dark secret the group is hiding and finds herself coming face to face with her true self. Newbourne Park is a blend of social commentary, feminine rage, and the need to create a semblance of control in the face of chaos. Jennifer Thorne has earned her place among my “automatic order” authors, and other horror lovers - especially those who treasure vibes over gore - should too. Recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Loved it almost as much as I loved Diavola. A must-read for horror fans.
June 29, 2026
THIS REVIEW WILL HAVE SPOILERS!
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Diavola was one of my favorite horror books the year that I read it and I've been itching for a new horror book from this author so Newbourne Park immediately went to the top of my TBR as soon as it hit my kindle. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations.
Here's the thing, I absolutely LOVED the first 30% of this book, Newbourne mansion was the perfect setting and the atmosphere was on point. I loved seeing the group arrive and quickly realize something isn't right. I loved seeing the night of carnage but all of that ending by the 30% mark and the rest was our FMC trying to figure out her new life after being bit, which is where I struggled. I honestly think I would've enjoyed this a bit more had the first 30% been more of the book and less about her in the aftermath.
This wasn't a bad book by any means, I just preferred the first third of the book and my attention waned after that.
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Diavola was one of my favorite horror books the year that I read it and I've been itching for a new horror book from this author so Newbourne Park immediately went to the top of my TBR as soon as it hit my kindle. Unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations.
Here's the thing, I absolutely LOVED the first 30% of this book, Newbourne mansion was the perfect setting and the atmosphere was on point. I loved seeing the group arrive and quickly realize something isn't right. I loved seeing the night of carnage but all of that ending by the 30% mark and the rest was our FMC trying to figure out her new life after being bit, which is where I struggled. I honestly think I would've enjoyed this a bit more had the first 30% been more of the book and less about her in the aftermath.
This wasn't a bad book by any means, I just preferred the first third of the book and my attention waned after that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Class divides and female rage meet supernatural suspense in Newbourne Park, a werewolf story with teeth. This book went directions I didn’t expect when I started it, but I was hooked all the way through!
When Martha joins her brother and some friends for an evening sneaking into and squatting in the beautiful, old, and (they think) empty Newbourne Park, she expects the most dangerous part of the night to be avoiding security cameras or guards; but what they find is far more dangerous. Faced with folkloric beings that are very real and very hungry, Martha finds herself drawn into a battle of survival, class, and wills; and the winner will be whoever (or whatever) is willing to be the most monstrous.
I try not to have spoilers in my reviews, and I will be sure to blur out any I do write about here on Goodreads for anyone who doesn’t want to see them; but while I really enjoyed this book, I expected something different from the story as it is, so I will be a bit more spoiler-ey than I normally am to discuss where the story surprised me. For those who do not want spoilers, I will say that this is a great book, especially for fans of female-led horror, supernatural / psychological suspense, and stories of women who embrace a role of darkness or monstrosity. It was a really fun exploration of werewolf myths from the POV of a woman, which is always fascinating to me; I think werewolves are so “anti” what society tells women to be, and for me at least that makes female werewolves a very satisfying thing to read about. If you like creature features that explore the character of the main monster more than the terror it instills, and if you are a fan of stories that make you think “Good for her”, I think you will love Newbourne Park.
Now, for a more spoiler-y analysis:
I would recommend Newbourne Park to fans of Such Sharp Teeth and You Did Nothing Wrong, and to any readers who love werewolves. (I would also recommend reading this one as a buddy-read to Milkteeth by Caitlin Starling; they both have very different but fascinating things to say about monstrous women, and I’m so glad I read them one right after another!)
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the digital arc! All thoughts & opinions in the review are my own.
When Martha joins her brother and some friends for an evening sneaking into and squatting in the beautiful, old, and (they think) empty Newbourne Park, she expects the most dangerous part of the night to be avoiding security cameras or guards; but what they find is far more dangerous. Faced with folkloric beings that are very real and very hungry, Martha finds herself drawn into a battle of survival, class, and wills; and the winner will be whoever (or whatever) is willing to be the most monstrous.
I try not to have spoilers in my reviews, and I will be sure to blur out any I do write about here on Goodreads for anyone who doesn’t want to see them; but while I really enjoyed this book, I expected something different from the story as it is, so I will be a bit more spoiler-ey than I normally am to discuss where the story surprised me. For those who do not want spoilers, I will say that this is a great book, especially for fans of female-led horror, supernatural / psychological suspense, and stories of women who embrace a role of darkness or monstrosity. It was a really fun exploration of werewolf myths from the POV of a woman, which is always fascinating to me; I think werewolves are so “anti” what society tells women to be, and for me at least that makes female werewolves a very satisfying thing to read about. If you like creature features that explore the character of the main monster more than the terror it instills, and if you are a fan of stories that make you think “Good for her”, I think you will love Newbourne Park.
Now, for a more spoiler-y analysis:
I would recommend Newbourne Park to fans of Such Sharp Teeth and You Did Nothing Wrong, and to any readers who love werewolves. (I would also recommend reading this one as a buddy-read to Milkteeth by Caitlin Starling; they both have very different but fascinating things to say about monstrous women, and I’m so glad I read them one right after another!)
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the digital arc! All thoughts & opinions in the review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Martha Shaw has spent years putting her life on hold to care for her dying mother, leaving little room for friendships, romance, or her dreams of Oxford. Now, with that chapter closing, she’s ready to reclaim something for herself—even if it means leaning into a darker, more reckless side. A weekend “squatting” adventure with her brother & friends at a vacant estate, seems just the ticket....despite the bad vibes the place stirs in her. The main house is beyond her wildest dreams, and her brother’s friend brings an added benefit. That is until things go horribly wrong.
At first glance, Newbourne Park seems poised to deliver a familiar setup: a group of twenty-somethings, an eerie mansion, and a looming werewolf threat. Not typically my favorite horror formula. But Jennifer Thorne quickly proves there’s far more lurking beneath the surface. Martha is no helpless victim—she’s complex, cunning, and increasingly dangerous in her own right, making this story difficult to put down.
Yes, there are werewolves here. But this novel digs deeper, weaving in sharp commentary on class, privilege, and belonging. Martha’s transformation becomes more than physical, it’s a calculated ascent. When she’s bitten and unexpectedly welcomed into the world of the wealthy Lambert family, she recognizes opportunity when she sees it. Under the influence of the enigmatic Lady Olivia Lambert, she begins to feel something she hasn’t in years: a sense of home.
But Martha isn’t content to simply belong. So when young Freddie Lambert becomes captivated by her, she proves she knows exactly how to turn the rules of privilege to her advantage. After all, you don’t need to be born with a silver spoon to learn how to wield one.
Dark and unexpectedly sharp, Newbourne Park offers more than supernatural thrills. It’s a character-driven descent into ambition, identity, and securing your place in the pack.
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Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Putnam Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
At first glance, Newbourne Park seems poised to deliver a familiar setup: a group of twenty-somethings, an eerie mansion, and a looming werewolf threat. Not typically my favorite horror formula. But Jennifer Thorne quickly proves there’s far more lurking beneath the surface. Martha is no helpless victim—she’s complex, cunning, and increasingly dangerous in her own right, making this story difficult to put down.
Yes, there are werewolves here. But this novel digs deeper, weaving in sharp commentary on class, privilege, and belonging. Martha’s transformation becomes more than physical, it’s a calculated ascent. When she’s bitten and unexpectedly welcomed into the world of the wealthy Lambert family, she recognizes opportunity when she sees it. Under the influence of the enigmatic Lady Olivia Lambert, she begins to feel something she hasn’t in years: a sense of home.
But Martha isn’t content to simply belong. So when young Freddie Lambert becomes captivated by her, she proves she knows exactly how to turn the rules of privilege to her advantage. After all, you don’t need to be born with a silver spoon to learn how to wield one.
Dark and unexpectedly sharp, Newbourne Park offers more than supernatural thrills. It’s a character-driven descent into ambition, identity, and securing your place in the pack.
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Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Putnam Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"A biting, blood-drenched, eat-the-rich gothic thriller."
Newbourne Park is one of those books that starts by pulling you into the fantasy and then slowly makes you regret ever wanting in.
At the start, there is something almost inviting about it. Martha has spent so long worn down by grief and just trying to survive that sneaking away to this massive estate feels like stepping into a different life for a minute. The house is gorgeous. The grounds are beautiful. There is champagne and sunlight and all the usual rich-people nonsense. But it never feels fully safe. Even early on, you can feel that something is wrong with this place.
What I liked most was the atmosphere. To me, that’s where the book really shines. Newbourne Park feels old and beautiful, yet you know that there's something just not right lying below the surface. The poison garden. The bone pit. The sense that the whole estate has been hiding something ugly for a very long time. I also liked Martha a lot. Her voice gives the story some real "bite". She is angry, funny, and very aware of how ridiculous wealthy people can be. It keeps the book from feeling stiff or too impressed with its own message.
One thing that surprised me was how well the story shifts once the horror really kicks in. The class commentary is there from the beginning, so when the book goes all in on the “eat the rich” angle, it feels earned. And it is not subtle. At all. But honestly, it shouldn't be. This book has teeth, and once it decides to sink them in, it does. The horror gets brutal, but the anger underneath it is what really gives it weight.
By the end, Newbourne Park feels like a beautiful place built on rot.
ARC provided by Putnam through NetGalley. Many thanks for the early copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’d like to thank NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I went into this book expecting more of a mystery-thriller, and while there are definitely suspenseful elements, the story ultimately leans much more heavily into the supernatural than I anticipated. That shift caught me off guard, though not necessarily in a bad way at first.
What really worked for me was the setup. The first half — and honestly even into the three-quarter mark — was incredibly compelling. The author did an excellent job establishing atmosphere, tension, and intrigue. The way the plot unfolded early on felt smart and deliberate, and I was genuinely invested in uncovering what was happening beneath the surface.
However, as the story progressed, it started moving in a direction that felt increasingly elitist and morally detached. To be fair, there were hints of that throughout the novel, so it didn’t come entirely out of nowhere, but I kept expecting a larger twist or revelation that would reframe those elements in a more satisfying way.
There was also a lot of vague foreshadowing and an ongoing sense that the reader was supposed to already understand certain things that hadn’t fully been explained yet. Maybe that disorientation was intentional, but for me it created more confusion than suspense by the end. Instead of feeling intrigued, I was left uncertain about what exactly had happened and what I was meant to take away from it.
Overall, this is a book with a brilliantly constructed opening and a strong atmospheric pull, but the later shift in tone and direction didn’t fully work for me personally.
I went into this book expecting more of a mystery-thriller, and while there are definitely suspenseful elements, the story ultimately leans much more heavily into the supernatural than I anticipated. That shift caught me off guard, though not necessarily in a bad way at first.
What really worked for me was the setup. The first half — and honestly even into the three-quarter mark — was incredibly compelling. The author did an excellent job establishing atmosphere, tension, and intrigue. The way the plot unfolded early on felt smart and deliberate, and I was genuinely invested in uncovering what was happening beneath the surface.
However, as the story progressed, it started moving in a direction that felt increasingly elitist and morally detached. To be fair, there were hints of that throughout the novel, so it didn’t come entirely out of nowhere, but I kept expecting a larger twist or revelation that would reframe those elements in a more satisfying way.
There was also a lot of vague foreshadowing and an ongoing sense that the reader was supposed to already understand certain things that hadn’t fully been explained yet. Maybe that disorientation was intentional, but for me it created more confusion than suspense by the end. Instead of feeling intrigued, I was left uncertain about what exactly had happened and what I was meant to take away from it.
Overall, this is a book with a brilliantly constructed opening and a strong atmospheric pull, but the later shift in tone and direction didn’t fully work for me personally.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second Jennifer Thorne book I've read, after Diavola, and I was excited to see what she would do next. I went into Newbourne Park knowing very little about it, which I think worked in its favour. The opening chapters immediately pulled me in with their pace, atmosphere, and sense of unease. From the very beginning there was a tense, unsettling feeling that kept me turning the pages.
Jennifer Thorne is incredibly good at creating an immersive atmosphere, and the supernatural horror elements were easily my favourite part of the novel. The mystery of what was happening kept me invested, and I was eager to uncover the truth behind the horrors at the heart of the story.
Unfortunately, around the halfway point I started to struggle more with the book. I never felt that I fully understood the main character's motivations, and some of her behaviour didn't quite line up with the background information we were given.
The novel also contains a lot of social commentary and explores themes of power, particularly between women which I questioned the plausibility of more than the supernatural horror element. I also didn't really buy into the central romantic relationship. It never felt entirely convincing or natural to me, which made it harder to invest in the characters' emotional journeys.
While I enjoyed the book overall, parts of it felt a little unnecessary, and I think the story was strongest when it focused on the suspense, supernatural mystery, and mounting dread.
Despite my criticisms, I still had a good time with Newbourne Park. Jennifer Thorne once again proved that she can write unsettling, atmospheric horror, and that's enough to make me look forward to whatever she writes next. Thank you to NetGalley and Titan Books for the ARC.
Jennifer Thorne is incredibly good at creating an immersive atmosphere, and the supernatural horror elements were easily my favourite part of the novel. The mystery of what was happening kept me invested, and I was eager to uncover the truth behind the horrors at the heart of the story.
Unfortunately, around the halfway point I started to struggle more with the book. I never felt that I fully understood the main character's motivations, and some of her behaviour didn't quite line up with the background information we were given.
The novel also contains a lot of social commentary and explores themes of power, particularly between women which I questioned the plausibility of more than the supernatural horror element. I also didn't really buy into the central romantic relationship. It never felt entirely convincing or natural to me, which made it harder to invest in the characters' emotional journeys.
While I enjoyed the book overall, parts of it felt a little unnecessary, and I think the story was strongest when it focused on the suspense, supernatural mystery, and mounting dread.
Despite my criticisms, I still had a good time with Newbourne Park. Jennifer Thorne once again proved that she can write unsettling, atmospheric horror, and that's enough to make me look forward to whatever she writes next. Thank you to NetGalley and Titan Books for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you love horror that blends razor-sharp social commentary with genuine terror, this book absolutely delivers.
What starts as a seemingly harmless weekend getaway quickly spirals into a nightmare fueled by greed, privilege, family dysfunction, and something far more monstrous lurking in the shadows. Martha was an incredibly compelling protagonist—exhausted from years of caregiving, emotionally drained, and desperate for a chance to simply exist outside of responsibility. Her vulnerability made every horrifying moment hit even harder.
The atmosphere was one of the book's greatest strengths. Newbourne Park feels beautiful, unsettling, and dangerous all at once. The author masterfully builds tension, taking readers from moments of dark humor to scenes of pure dread without ever losing momentum. The horror elements are visceral and brutal, but beneath the blood and chaos is a story about class, power, survival, and what people are willing to become when pushed to their limits.
I especially appreciated how the book balanced its scares with biting wit. The commentary never felt preachy, and the dysfunctional family dynamics added another layer of tension that made the story feel grounded even when things became wildly supernatural.
Come for the creepy estate and creature horror. Stay for the sharp social satire, unforgettable atmosphere, and a protagonist you'll desperately root for.
A wickedly entertaining horror novel that proves sometimes the real monsters aren't the ones howling at the moon.
What starts as a seemingly harmless weekend getaway quickly spirals into a nightmare fueled by greed, privilege, family dysfunction, and something far more monstrous lurking in the shadows. Martha was an incredibly compelling protagonist—exhausted from years of caregiving, emotionally drained, and desperate for a chance to simply exist outside of responsibility. Her vulnerability made every horrifying moment hit even harder.
The atmosphere was one of the book's greatest strengths. Newbourne Park feels beautiful, unsettling, and dangerous all at once. The author masterfully builds tension, taking readers from moments of dark humor to scenes of pure dread without ever losing momentum. The horror elements are visceral and brutal, but beneath the blood and chaos is a story about class, power, survival, and what people are willing to become when pushed to their limits.
I especially appreciated how the book balanced its scares with biting wit. The commentary never felt preachy, and the dysfunctional family dynamics added another layer of tension that made the story feel grounded even when things became wildly supernatural.
Come for the creepy estate and creature horror. Stay for the sharp social satire, unforgettable atmosphere, and a protagonist you'll desperately root for.
A wickedly entertaining horror novel that proves sometimes the real monsters aren't the ones howling at the moon.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Newbourne Park is a horror novel about a woman whose weekend getaway changes her life in a completely unexpected way. Martha is stuck, unable to move on with her life after the death of her mother, but when her brother invites her to a weekend at the country house his friend works at, she takes him up as a chance to do something. Their weekend starts well, but when the owner returns along with a whole load of other people, it turns out that the house has secrets, and Martha is about to be drawn into them.
Like Thorne's Diavola, this is a horror novel that explores class and privilege, but Newbourne Park is also a werewolf novel in a similar way to Rachel Harrison's Such Sharp Teeth. That means that instead of scares and creepy stuff, the focus is much more on the horrors of being a werewolf and the power dynamics between the characters. The first part of the book is a tense unfolding of Martha and the others spending an illicit weekend at the house, and then from there is becomes more about Martha dealing with the consequences in a slower, more drawn out way.
There's some great ridiculous moments—like having to be approved to join the werewolf pack via a Whatsapp vote—and generally this fits into the fun horror genre that I'd categorise Rachel Harrison's books as, in which there's some gore and a supernatural concept, but nothing scary. I liked all the commentary on the British class system and how that was interlinked with werewolfism. This isn't a subtle book, but it's a fun ride.
Like Thorne's Diavola, this is a horror novel that explores class and privilege, but Newbourne Park is also a werewolf novel in a similar way to Rachel Harrison's Such Sharp Teeth. That means that instead of scares and creepy stuff, the focus is much more on the horrors of being a werewolf and the power dynamics between the characters. The first part of the book is a tense unfolding of Martha and the others spending an illicit weekend at the house, and then from there is becomes more about Martha dealing with the consequences in a slower, more drawn out way.
There's some great ridiculous moments—like having to be approved to join the werewolf pack via a Whatsapp vote—and generally this fits into the fun horror genre that I'd categorise Rachel Harrison's books as, in which there's some gore and a supernatural concept, but nothing scary. I liked all the commentary on the British class system and how that was interlinked with werewolfism. This isn't a subtle book, but it's a fun ride.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thorne writes anything, and I am THERE. I have been anxiously awaiting Newbourne Park, and I am not disappointed.
I loved Diavola SO MUCH that it took me a bit to get into this one, I must admit. I think with this author, you should suspend expectation, and go into this one coming away with a new mindset on horror in general.
Martha Shaw is our main character- she is 26, pretty vacant inside, and so tired in all the ways after being a caretaker for her now deceased mother. At a real cusp in her life, her brother invites her to a retreat for a few days to get her mind off the grief and sameness of her existence. I'll leave the description at that, and say our characters are so flawed and human and clearly stuck and grieving. This one is written with genuine snark in mind, and for all the ways Martha annoyed me with her downright negativity, I couldn't help but beam at her utter alacrity and quick wittedness. I'd dare to say some development happened all across the board, and leave it vague with that. I love this author and enjoyed the experience of this book as a whole- this dissection of horror and making it unique, this blend of genres and page turning amazement even in the moments where dialogue takes a lull, and the bravery of Thorne for even daring to invent in a time where everyone is a copy. Thanks so much to NetGalley and Putnam/ G.P. Putnam's Sons for the eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
I loved Diavola SO MUCH that it took me a bit to get into this one, I must admit. I think with this author, you should suspend expectation, and go into this one coming away with a new mindset on horror in general.
Martha Shaw is our main character- she is 26, pretty vacant inside, and so tired in all the ways after being a caretaker for her now deceased mother. At a real cusp in her life, her brother invites her to a retreat for a few days to get her mind off the grief and sameness of her existence. I'll leave the description at that, and say our characters are so flawed and human and clearly stuck and grieving. This one is written with genuine snark in mind, and for all the ways Martha annoyed me with her downright negativity, I couldn't help but beam at her utter alacrity and quick wittedness. I'd dare to say some development happened all across the board, and leave it vague with that. I love this author and enjoyed the experience of this book as a whole- this dissection of horror and making it unique, this blend of genres and page turning amazement even in the moments where dialogue takes a lull, and the bravery of Thorne for even daring to invent in a time where everyone is a copy. Thanks so much to NetGalley and Putnam/ G.P. Putnam's Sons for the eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this Arc.
I, like many others, went into this book expecting Ready or Not or The Hunger Games-style antics, but the story was nothing like that. It was so much more.
When we first meet Martha, she is a shell of her once ambitious self after spending years caring for her mother. But when a couple of nights at an empty, sprawling country manor take a dark turn, so does Martha’s life.
The first 30% of the book creates an intensely unsettling atmosphere. The sense of foreboding is evident from the very first chapter. Martha is reluctant to be part of the plan — and for good reason. I kept wondering, “What more could possibly happen?” to which the author responded with even more drama, action, and complexity that I absolutely devoured.
This book is beautifully gruesome. Newbourne Manor is extravagant and alluring, yet filled with secrets lurking beneath its surface.
Martha isn’t an immediately likeable FMC, but I think that’s because she carries such understandable resentment toward the wealthy upper-class people surrounding her. Her narration is layered and compelling; she has a dark streak, sharp anger, biting wit, and genuine comedic timing. The author blends horror, thriller, folk elements, and family drama effortlessly.
The story unfolds subtly, always carrying a tense undercurrent that guides Martha through her constantly shifting life, errupting into well-earned ending that somehow left satisfyingly sad.
I, like many others, went into this book expecting Ready or Not or The Hunger Games-style antics, but the story was nothing like that. It was so much more.
When we first meet Martha, she is a shell of her once ambitious self after spending years caring for her mother. But when a couple of nights at an empty, sprawling country manor take a dark turn, so does Martha’s life.
The first 30% of the book creates an intensely unsettling atmosphere. The sense of foreboding is evident from the very first chapter. Martha is reluctant to be part of the plan — and for good reason. I kept wondering, “What more could possibly happen?” to which the author responded with even more drama, action, and complexity that I absolutely devoured.
This book is beautifully gruesome. Newbourne Manor is extravagant and alluring, yet filled with secrets lurking beneath its surface.
Martha isn’t an immediately likeable FMC, but I think that’s because she carries such understandable resentment toward the wealthy upper-class people surrounding her. Her narration is layered and compelling; she has a dark streak, sharp anger, biting wit, and genuine comedic timing. The author blends horror, thriller, folk elements, and family drama effortlessly.
The story unfolds subtly, always carrying a tense undercurrent that guides Martha through her constantly shifting life, errupting into well-earned ending that somehow left satisfyingly sad.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Newbourne Park is a darkly humorous and socially observant horror set on a sprawling, elegant country estate. Exploring themes of class, power, and greed, it adds rich texture to the story’s creeping horror. The novel follows Martha, a woman seeking escape at the grand estate, only to find the mansion itself almost alive, and her retreat slowly twisting into a terrifying, monstrous nightmare.
Rating 3.5
As Martha wanders the luxurious halls, she enjoys newfound freedom and reconnects with herself but the tone gradually darkens. A supernatural presence resurfaces unexpectedly, transforming her leisurely indulgence into tense, suspenseful horror. The mansion’s atmosphere is masterfully rendered: every echoing hallway, shadowed corner, and opulent room ratchets up the tension.
Newbourne Park is a smart, atmospheric horror that seamlessly blends suspense, social commentary, and dark humor. It will appeal to readers who savor slow-building dread, richly detailed settings, and a horror that lingers in both mood and thought.
Overall, its strength lies in the gradual accumulation of unease. The shift from carefree indulgence to creeping dread proves far more unsettling than sudden chaos, making the novel a compelling experience for fans of atmospheric horror.
Rating 3.5
As Martha wanders the luxurious halls, she enjoys newfound freedom and reconnects with herself but the tone gradually darkens. A supernatural presence resurfaces unexpectedly, transforming her leisurely indulgence into tense, suspenseful horror. The mansion’s atmosphere is masterfully rendered: every echoing hallway, shadowed corner, and opulent room ratchets up the tension.
Newbourne Park is a smart, atmospheric horror that seamlessly blends suspense, social commentary, and dark humor. It will appeal to readers who savor slow-building dread, richly detailed settings, and a horror that lingers in both mood and thought.
Overall, its strength lies in the gradual accumulation of unease. The shift from carefree indulgence to creeping dread proves far more unsettling than sudden chaos, making the novel a compelling experience for fans of atmospheric horror.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and TitanBooks for the e-arc!
This is the second book by Jennifer Throne that I’ve read, after “Diavola”, which I loved a lot! I had no idea what “Newbourne Park” is about, deep down I hope it will have ghosts in it. When I realised what is about and what’s happening, I had some second thoughts but everything is fine, because I actually loved it! It’s true that I loved “Diavola” much more, but the female rage in “Newbourne Park” was done so so well!
The mystery had me invested really fast, the plot is very well paced, and while it can be predictable, it’s not the annoying predictable stuff. The author left a lot of time for you to feel shocked and to start thinking about what’s going to actually happen.
The characters are very unlikeable, yet I understood Martha’s choices. I liked how the book was written, I felt like it’s an open journal forgotten on a nightstand and I know I shouldn’t read it, but I can’t stop.
Loved the folk elements, the setting was creepy and a little bit gothic, with this huge manor.
I must say, I’m really excited for the next book of this author.
This is the second book by Jennifer Throne that I’ve read, after “Diavola”, which I loved a lot! I had no idea what “Newbourne Park” is about, deep down I hope it will have ghosts in it. When I realised what is about and what’s happening, I had some second thoughts but everything is fine, because I actually loved it! It’s true that I loved “Diavola” much more, but the female rage in “Newbourne Park” was done so so well!
The mystery had me invested really fast, the plot is very well paced, and while it can be predictable, it’s not the annoying predictable stuff. The author left a lot of time for you to feel shocked and to start thinking about what’s going to actually happen.
The characters are very unlikeable, yet I understood Martha’s choices. I liked how the book was written, I felt like it’s an open journal forgotten on a nightstand and I know I shouldn’t read it, but I can’t stop.
Loved the folk elements, the setting was creepy and a little bit gothic, with this huge manor.
I must say, I’m really excited for the next book of this author.
June 23, 2026
I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher.
I loved this book, it was absolutely fascinating. The structure of the book and the themes it explores were just engrossing.
This book has a grieving young woman who has put her life on hold to care for her mother dragged to trespass at a stately home for the weekend by her brother, his girlfriend and friend. They see how the other half lives, enjoying the pool, the huge rooms, the couture. They’re told the place will be empty. But unexpectedly a large group turn up.
The turn this book takes quite early on was masterful. The premise for the first third of the book could have carried on for the whole thing and still have been amazing, but this evolved into something absolutely fascinating.
The main character goes through some interesting choices and changes throughout this book. She’s quite downtrodden when we meet her and it’s good to see how her self worth and confidence grows and she starts to take bolder decisions.
I’m loath to say too much on plot as I want to avoid spoilers. I went into this book knowing very little about it. Choosing to read it because I liked the author’s previous book very much. I feel I really benefitted from that.
I really enjoyed the exploration of stately homes in this, the references to national trust and the look into the lives of people who own these estates. It felt really integral to the plot here and informed the class divide between characters, which was quite important to the story.
I loved this book, it was absolutely fascinating. The structure of the book and the themes it explores were just engrossing.
This book has a grieving young woman who has put her life on hold to care for her mother dragged to trespass at a stately home for the weekend by her brother, his girlfriend and friend. They see how the other half lives, enjoying the pool, the huge rooms, the couture. They’re told the place will be empty. But unexpectedly a large group turn up.
The turn this book takes quite early on was masterful. The premise for the first third of the book could have carried on for the whole thing and still have been amazing, but this evolved into something absolutely fascinating.
The main character goes through some interesting choices and changes throughout this book. She’s quite downtrodden when we meet her and it’s good to see how her self worth and confidence grows and she starts to take bolder decisions.
I’m loath to say too much on plot as I want to avoid spoilers. I went into this book knowing very little about it. Choosing to read it because I liked the author’s previous book very much. I feel I really benefitted from that.
I really enjoyed the exploration of stately homes in this, the references to national trust and the look into the lives of people who own these estates. It felt really integral to the plot here and informed the class divide between characters, which was quite important to the story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When I first started this book, and got into the story, I thought, "Oh no, not a werewolf story." Because trythfully, it's rare for me to enjoy a story with werewolves. Because I loved Diavola so much, I kept reading, because I trust Jennifer to deliver a great story, and she absolutely did!
Martha Shaw put her life on hold to take care of her dying mother. Knowing her mother was dying did not prepare her for her death. Once she was gone, Martha spent her days aimlessly in grief and indecision. Her brother Tom invites her to go for a weekend trespass with his friends, sneaking into a posh country estate. She decides that some fun and a weekend away might just be what she needs, so she accepts.
The entire staff, family, and even the animals are away from the estate, and Martha and her friends enjoy living the high life, until the full moon night arrives. Suddenly, the master of the estate and their gathering return for a violent night, and Martha's life will never be the same.
Is there gore? Of course - they're werewolves! Animal death - some. But this story is action packed and the characters are engaging. I found myself rooting for Martha and wary of everyone else.
Jennifer Thorne once again delivers a truly entertaining paranormal story.
I received a copy of this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Martha Shaw put her life on hold to take care of her dying mother. Knowing her mother was dying did not prepare her for her death. Once she was gone, Martha spent her days aimlessly in grief and indecision. Her brother Tom invites her to go for a weekend trespass with his friends, sneaking into a posh country estate. She decides that some fun and a weekend away might just be what she needs, so she accepts.
The entire staff, family, and even the animals are away from the estate, and Martha and her friends enjoy living the high life, until the full moon night arrives. Suddenly, the master of the estate and their gathering return for a violent night, and Martha's life will never be the same.
Is there gore? Of course - they're werewolves! Animal death - some. But this story is action packed and the characters are engaging. I found myself rooting for Martha and wary of everyone else.
Jennifer Thorne once again delivers a truly entertaining paranormal story.
I received a copy of this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Putnam, and Jennifer Thorne for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. My favorite read of 2026 so far!!! Ugh it just had everything I wanted and more, and I knew I’d be falling down a gleefully horrendous rabbit hole (or should I say bone pit?) from the first sentence. Martha is a little like all of us while being entirely unique and fully formed. The plot unfurled with delightful pacing, and Thorne masterfully balances shock and awe with deep emotion, conflict, and humanity. Who are we if not monsters every once in a while??
I could write an essay on this book, and I likely will put something on my Substack when it comes out that goes more in depth into just how much I loved this and why. People will love the characters with their flaws, unabashed and nakedly vulnerable (except when they work oh so hard to hide themselves). People will love Newbourne, imagining just how they might live in a place like that. Thank you again for this wonderful book.
I could write an essay on this book, and I likely will put something on my Substack when it comes out that goes more in depth into just how much I loved this and why. People will love the characters with their flaws, unabashed and nakedly vulnerable (except when they work oh so hard to hide themselves). People will love Newbourne, imagining just how they might live in a place like that. Thank you again for this wonderful book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Martha's brother and his girlfriend invite her to spend a couple nights at the Newbourne Park estate, where his friend works. Reluctantly Martha decides to go and feels that she needs to have some fun after dealing with the passing of her mother. Everything seems to be going well until the owner returns along with guests, causing the group to hide and later fight for their lives. I really loved my time with this book! I was expecting something similar to The Hunt or Ready or Not movies but got something totally different. Minor spoiler, but this is a werewolf book, which usually doesn't work for me, but I loved this one! Most of the action and horror are in the first 30 percent, and after that it's how Martha is dealing with the effect of that vicious night. While the pacing was much slower for the remainder of the book, I couldn't get enough of Martha and her character arc! After loving Diavola, Thorne is definitely becoming one of my favorite horror authors!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC! Pub Sep 2026.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC! Pub Sep 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!
Going into this novel, I had a good feeling I’d enjoy it based on Jennifer Thorne’s previous work, but I ended up absolutely adoring it so much more than I thought.
I love when the house is a character in a novel and Newbourne Park certainly is that, with the way it drew Martha in and wouldn’t let go, all of its ghosts and more. I think this aspect of the novel could have been pushed a little further, but there was enough else to enjoy that I find it to be a minor quibble on my part.
Spoilers ahead…
I was so hoping this was going to be werewolves and boy did it deliver. I loved the play between the mundanity of managing a werewolf gathering and the utter ruthlessness needed for survival. Martha coming into her own under the circumstances was such a delight to read. I loved the dynamic between Martha and Olivia, the push and pull and daring each other to do more.
Overall a super fun read that gets a bit dark in the best ways
Going into this novel, I had a good feeling I’d enjoy it based on Jennifer Thorne’s previous work, but I ended up absolutely adoring it so much more than I thought.
I love when the house is a character in a novel and Newbourne Park certainly is that, with the way it drew Martha in and wouldn’t let go, all of its ghosts and more. I think this aspect of the novel could have been pushed a little further, but there was enough else to enjoy that I find it to be a minor quibble on my part.
Spoilers ahead…
I was so hoping this was going to be werewolves and boy did it deliver. I loved the play between the mundanity of managing a werewolf gathering and the utter ruthlessness needed for survival. Martha coming into her own under the circumstances was such a delight to read. I loved the dynamic between Martha and Olivia, the push and pull and daring each other to do more.
Overall a super fun read that gets a bit dark in the best ways
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2026
This book was so much fun to read thanks to the perfect blend of humour and horror. I loved the main character from the start. I’ve been enjoying “good for her” horror lately and was obsessed with how unapologetic Martha was as the story progressed.
It was fast paced but didn’t feel rushed. The author did such a good job of building anticipation with just the right amount of foreshadowing. It was one of those books I didn’t want to set down and was always excited to jump back into because it felt like such a refreshing take on a classic horror trope.
I think folks who enjoyed the book Such Sharp Teeth by Rachel Harrison and the movie Ginger Snaps will love this read!
Thank you Net Galley and Titan Books for the advanced copy!
It was fast paced but didn’t feel rushed. The author did such a good job of building anticipation with just the right amount of foreshadowing. It was one of those books I didn’t want to set down and was always excited to jump back into because it felt like such a refreshing take on a classic horror trope.
I think folks who enjoyed the book Such Sharp Teeth by Rachel Harrison and the movie Ginger Snaps will love this read!
Thank you Net Galley and Titan Books for the advanced copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This review is for an ARC copy received from the publisher through NetGalley.
Still mourning the loss of her mother, Martha Shaw reluctantly agrees to accompany her brother and fiancee to the grand estate where his friend works. With the owners away on holiday, it seems like the perfect opportunity to enjoy themselves in the lap of luxury. But when the owners return unexpectedly, Martha finds that some monsters are real and her life is forever changed by the encounter.
Newbourne Park definitely put a new spin on an old horror trope, turning it on its head by telling the story from an inside perspective. The plot had plenty of surprises, and had a number of secrets it kept hidden, only revealing them a little at a time.
Still mourning the loss of her mother, Martha Shaw reluctantly agrees to accompany her brother and fiancee to the grand estate where his friend works. With the owners away on holiday, it seems like the perfect opportunity to enjoy themselves in the lap of luxury. But when the owners return unexpectedly, Martha finds that some monsters are real and her life is forever changed by the encounter.
Newbourne Park definitely put a new spin on an old horror trope, turning it on its head by telling the story from an inside perspective. The plot had plenty of surprises, and had a number of secrets it kept hidden, only revealing them a little at a time.
May 18, 2026
I love Jennifer Thorne's other horror books (see Diavola and Lute) and this is another excellent read. Main character Martha feels much older than her 26 years. Down on her luck and recently grieving her mother after a long illness where she was the primary caretaker, Martha is rudderless. Her older brother -- golden child and screwup who barely helped with their mom -- invites her on a weekend excursion to a manor house where his friend works. The family is away and the staff have been given the weekend off, leaving Newbourne Park -- and its well-appointed bedrooms, fully-stocked kitchen, and giant swimming pool -- ripe for the taking. A weekend away at a fancy manor is supposed to offer a distraction, a chance for Martha to have some fun again. But almost immediately, things take a horrific turn, leaving Martha with no choice but to adapt to her new life, or what's left of it.
I love Thorne's relatable, imperfect protagonists. The opening chapters were a perfect short story, in my opinion. Very cinematic. The rest of the book is very compelling, but I thought there was a slight tonal shift and I was sorry that certain characters did not feature in more of the story. Martha's choices and motivations would make great fodder for book club discussion. Rich themes of class, upward mobility, moral codes, loyalty, greed, and lineage throughout this tale. There is also a folk horror element to the town surrounding Newbourne Park, as its inhabitants are aware of and complicit in the goings-on at the manor house. If you enjoy smart, self-aware horror, this is a must-read.
I am still thinking about this book two months after reading it and it will be a fantastic addition to any "spooky season" reading list. Can't wait to see what horror trope Thorne tackles next!
Many thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I love Thorne's relatable, imperfect protagonists. The opening chapters were a perfect short story, in my opinion. Very cinematic. The rest of the book is very compelling, but I thought there was a slight tonal shift and I was sorry that certain characters did not feature in more of the story. Martha's choices and motivations would make great fodder for book club discussion. Rich themes of class, upward mobility, moral codes, loyalty, greed, and lineage throughout this tale. There is also a folk horror element to the town surrounding Newbourne Park, as its inhabitants are aware of and complicit in the goings-on at the manor house. If you enjoy smart, self-aware horror, this is a must-read.
I am still thinking about this book two months after reading it and it will be a fantastic addition to any "spooky season" reading list. Can't wait to see what horror trope Thorne tackles next!
Many thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved Diavola, so I was thrilled to receive an ARC of Newbourne Park. It did not disappoint.
Martha has spent years as caregiver for her ill mom. After her mom dies, she joins her brother and two others on what should be a fun weekend of partying at an empty estate. Soon the owners unexpectedly return, and fear turns to absolute terror as they see just what it is that the owner and friends are.
I really liked the character of Martha, who definitely can hold her own no matter the circumstances. There’s a little bit of gore in the book, but it’s not too extreme.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Martha has spent years as caregiver for her ill mom. After her mom dies, she joins her brother and two others on what should be a fun weekend of partying at an empty estate. Soon the owners unexpectedly return, and fear turns to absolute terror as they see just what it is that the owner and friends are.
I really liked the character of Martha, who definitely can hold her own no matter the circumstances. There’s a little bit of gore in the book, but it’s not too extreme.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC review:
To start, this is incredibly hard to review because of how devotedly in love I am with Diavola. So my expectations here were through the roof. The writing was phenomenal, as always. I loved the main character, she was delightfully wretched. It kept my interest piqued the entire way through, though I never hit that "oh shit" moment where fear takes over. This is a book about grief and revenge and class divides. While the themes were fantastically fleshed out, it didn't give me that horrific sense of dread the same way Diavola did.
To start, this is incredibly hard to review because of how devotedly in love I am with Diavola. So my expectations here were through the roof. The writing was phenomenal, as always. I loved the main character, she was delightfully wretched. It kept my interest piqued the entire way through, though I never hit that "oh shit" moment where fear takes over. This is a book about grief and revenge and class divides. While the themes were fantastically fleshed out, it didn't give me that horrific sense of dread the same way Diavola did.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The blurb doesn't really give a lot away, but ya know, "bloody battle for survival" sold me. That's not exactly what this was, but I'm not disappointed. Newbourne Park was much more about Martha's coming to terms with her change. The character growth from beginning to end was fantastic. I didn't expect to like this as much as I did, but if I wasn't working or sleeping, I was reading this. Definitely need to read more from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a proper female rage style book, whether intended or not. The relationships are complicated, back-stabbing, and monstrous. I felt the ending was satisfactorily bittersweet, and pretty grounded in real world behaviors.
There were some parts in the middle that delve into "high society" type antics that I didn't connect with (since I'm not a part of that scene), but it's not too hard to follow. My main gripe is the shallow talk of the ghosts on the property and who they are/where they come from.
The prose is easy to read, and moves fast where it needs to!
There were some parts in the middle that delve into "high society" type antics that I didn't connect with (since I'm not a part of that scene), but it's not too hard to follow. My main gripe is the shallow talk of the ghosts on the property and who they are/where they come from.
The prose is easy to read, and moves fast where it needs to!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh, I enjoyed Martha!
She's not nice. She's not warm and fuzzy. And if Martha and I were both running away from a grizzly bear, while she wouldn't push me in front of the bear, she also wouldn't do a damn thing to help me and I'd be bear chow.
This book is bitey in all the best ways. Teeth rend and tear and destroy, both literally and figuratively, and I was so there for it. The author gives us all the vices and makes them both horrifying and compelling all at once.
It's a monster book...but there are so many different kinds of monsters out there.
Excellent read!
She's not nice. She's not warm and fuzzy. And if Martha and I were both running away from a grizzly bear, while she wouldn't push me in front of the bear, she also wouldn't do a damn thing to help me and I'd be bear chow.
This book is bitey in all the best ways. Teeth rend and tear and destroy, both literally and figuratively, and I was so there for it. The author gives us all the vices and makes them both horrifying and compelling all at once.
It's a monster book...but there are so many different kinds of monsters out there.
Excellent read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Newbourne Park
By Jennifer Thorne
Pub Date: Sep 29 2026
This is the first book I've ever read that I can honestly say I don't know what to think about it. It was weird in so many ways that it managed to keep my interest. The characters are well written but all seem morally gray. I felt like I was reading a weird cult story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.
By Jennifer Thorne
Pub Date: Sep 29 2026
This is the first book I've ever read that I can honestly say I don't know what to think about it. It was weird in so many ways that it managed to keep my interest. The characters are well written but all seem morally gray. I felt like I was reading a weird cult story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Putnam for the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Thank you to Edelweiss for the ARC!
I really enjoy this author's writing style, especially her main characters, which are never fully likeable, but are always fascinating. The story had the potential to be a by the books monster story, but really took advantage of the concepts of class and the "haves vs have nots", which I feel like is usually reserved for vampire stories. Refreshing and well paced throughout!
I really enjoy this author's writing style, especially her main characters, which are never fully likeable, but are always fascinating. The story had the potential to be a by the books monster story, but really took advantage of the concepts of class and the "haves vs have nots", which I feel like is usually reserved for vampire stories. Refreshing and well paced throughout!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
She's done it again!!! I loved this one.
Jennifer Thorne’s signature wit and creeping dread fire on all cylinders here. I gasped, I laughed, I gagged in horror. This book is disgusting, razor sharp, and far too relatable—all things I have now come to expect when I pick up one of her brilliant novels!
If you loved Diavola, do NOT miss this one. Martha is officially one of my new favorite leading ladies of horror.
Jennifer Thorne’s signature wit and creeping dread fire on all cylinders here. I gasped, I laughed, I gagged in horror. This book is disgusting, razor sharp, and far too relatable—all things I have now come to expect when I pick up one of her brilliant novels!
If you loved Diavola, do NOT miss this one. Martha is officially one of my new favorite leading ladies of horror.
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