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The Glass House: An absolutely gripping and suspenseful psychological thriller packed with twists
After my sister was killed, my parents vowed never to return to this place. But I made a promise to uncover the truth. And now that I’m back, her killer has nowhere to hide.
Standing in the impressive hallway of this luxury holiday home, it’s hard to imagine our little house once stood here. Someone wanted to bury the ghosts of the past when they built the glass house and tourists come for miles to stay here. I’ve planned every detail of this trip and made certain the locals won’t recognise me. It’s the only way I might get them to talk.
But soon it’s clear no-one wants me here. At first it’s little things like whispers and threatening looks. Then one night, when I return to the house, I notice my possessions are out of place and I’m sure I can see a figure in the darkness outside.
Then I hear the sound of breaking glass downstairs and my heart shatters. Someone has been watching my every move. They must know who I really am. But when I come face to face with my sister’s killer, am I prepared for what I will find?
A completely addictive and twist-filled psychological thriller perfect for fans of Alice Feeney, Mary Kubica and John Marrs.
What readers are saying about The Glass House:
‘Completely hooked from the very first chapter. A tense, gripping psychological thriller that kept me guessing throughout. Plenty of twists, secrets, and unexpected revelations along the way. Brilliant!’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Kept me reading late into the night. The twists and turns left me breathless and eager to uncover the next revelation. An addictive, edge‑of‑your‑seat read that lingers long after the final page.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Loved this book. Loved the constant suspense. Loved that it had short chapters. Loved how it had me hooked from the very beginning. Loved the twists and loved how it was so good I read it in one sitting!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Gripping… had me hooked from the first chapter… and the twists genuinely kept me guessing. One of those books that's very hard to put down. Highly recommended!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was hooked and had to know what the heck was about to happen. There were moments my jaw dropped… the suspense did not disappoint at all!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A gripping thriller that kept me guessing until the very end. The story is packed with suspense, secrets, and plenty of twists that made it impossible to put down! A compelling page-turner that will keep you hooked until the last page!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Standing in the impressive hallway of this luxury holiday home, it’s hard to imagine our little house once stood here. Someone wanted to bury the ghosts of the past when they built the glass house and tourists come for miles to stay here. I’ve planned every detail of this trip and made certain the locals won’t recognise me. It’s the only way I might get them to talk.
But soon it’s clear no-one wants me here. At first it’s little things like whispers and threatening looks. Then one night, when I return to the house, I notice my possessions are out of place and I’m sure I can see a figure in the darkness outside.
Then I hear the sound of breaking glass downstairs and my heart shatters. Someone has been watching my every move. They must know who I really am. But when I come face to face with my sister’s killer, am I prepared for what I will find?
A completely addictive and twist-filled psychological thriller perfect for fans of Alice Feeney, Mary Kubica and John Marrs.
What readers are saying about The Glass House:
‘Completely hooked from the very first chapter. A tense, gripping psychological thriller that kept me guessing throughout. Plenty of twists, secrets, and unexpected revelations along the way. Brilliant!’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Kept me reading late into the night. The twists and turns left me breathless and eager to uncover the next revelation. An addictive, edge‑of‑your‑seat read that lingers long after the final page.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Loved this book. Loved the constant suspense. Loved that it had short chapters. Loved how it had me hooked from the very beginning. Loved the twists and loved how it was so good I read it in one sitting!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Gripping… had me hooked from the first chapter… and the twists genuinely kept me guessing. One of those books that's very hard to put down. Highly recommended!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I was hooked and had to know what the heck was about to happen. There were moments my jaw dropped… the suspense did not disappoint at all!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A gripping thriller that kept me guessing until the very end. The story is packed with suspense, secrets, and plenty of twists that made it impossible to put down! A compelling page-turner that will keep you hooked until the last page!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- GenresMystery
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2026
About the author
Victoria Jenkins
31 books372 followersVictoria Jenkins is a Welsh author who has made a name for herself writing the highly popular Detective King and Lane series of novels. The first novel in the series was “The Girls In The Water” that Jenkins first published in 2017, to much critical acclaim and popularity among crime fiction fans.
The series of novels features Detective Constable Chloe Lane and Detective Inspector Alex King, who are the lead investigative characters that solve some mysterious murders in their hometown.
Jenkins lives with her husband and daughter in South Wales, where her series of crime novels featuring Detectives King and Lane is based.
The series of novels features Detective Constable Chloe Lane and Detective Inspector Alex King, who are the lead investigative characters that solve some mysterious murders in their hometown.
Jenkins lives with her husband and daughter in South Wales, where her series of crime novels featuring Detectives King and Lane is based.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 26, 2026
such a good read…surprised more people aren’t talking about this new release
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me this ARC to read. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to read it before it came out. Life happens but…..
Giving this book a solid 4.3. I loved the remote setting of this book which 100% added a level of creepiness to this already suspenseful book. With Jessie aka Emma constantly having her guard up something isn’t right in the glass house, to visions, and questioning did she leave the light on or move this chair? To even a little romance with a local. So many twists and turns and no one is to be trusted is everyone lying? I know that there are so many good books coming out monthly this year 2026 but I’m really shocked more people aren’t talking about out this book. This is my honest review. I look forward to reading more by Victoria Jenkins.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me this ARC to read. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to read it before it came out. Life happens but…..
Giving this book a solid 4.3. I loved the remote setting of this book which 100% added a level of creepiness to this already suspenseful book. With Jessie aka Emma constantly having her guard up something isn’t right in the glass house, to visions, and questioning did she leave the light on or move this chair? To even a little romance with a local. So many twists and turns and no one is to be trusted is everyone lying? I know that there are so many good books coming out monthly this year 2026 but I’m really shocked more people aren’t talking about out this book. This is my honest review. I look forward to reading more by Victoria Jenkins.
July 21, 2026
This was an interesting premise. Right before Jessica’s mother dies she tells her that the man charged with her sister’s murder isn’t actually the killer. Jessica returns to her hometown to get the truth, even though her dad suggests against it.
This is a relatively slow paced thriller but that didn’t bother me. I like the mystery part and Jessica’s desire to find answers. There’s a little romance in the story, but that’s part of one of the twists I wasn’t expecting and it only adds to the mystery.
I was not expecting the final twists, and what the real answers were to Jessica’s sister’s death.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
This is a relatively slow paced thriller but that didn’t bother me. I like the mystery part and Jessica’s desire to find answers. There’s a little romance in the story, but that’s part of one of the twists I wasn’t expecting and it only adds to the mystery.
I was not expecting the final twists, and what the real answers were to Jessica’s sister’s death.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy of this book.
July 23, 2026
The Glass House was a gripping psychological thriller that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. I loved slowly unravelling the mystery surrounding the house itself, and every new revelation had me questioning who could really be trusted.
What stood out most for me was the tension. There were several genuine jump-scare moments that completely caught me off guard, making this one of those thrillers that keeps you glancing over your shoulder while you’re reading. Victoria Jenkins does a fantastic job of creating an unsettling atmosphere that builds steadily throughout.
The storyline was solid, with plenty of twists to keep the pages turning without feeling overly complicated. I really enjoyed piecing everything together alongside the characters, and the mystery at the heart of The Glass House kept me invested right until the end.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced psychological thriller with a creepy atmosphere, plenty of suspense and a few moments that will genuinely make you jump, The Glass House is definitely one to add to your TBR.
What stood out most for me was the tension. There were several genuine jump-scare moments that completely caught me off guard, making this one of those thrillers that keeps you glancing over your shoulder while you’re reading. Victoria Jenkins does a fantastic job of creating an unsettling atmosphere that builds steadily throughout.
The storyline was solid, with plenty of twists to keep the pages turning without feeling overly complicated. I really enjoyed piecing everything together alongside the characters, and the mystery at the heart of The Glass House kept me invested right until the end.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced psychological thriller with a creepy atmosphere, plenty of suspense and a few moments that will genuinely make you jump, The Glass House is definitely one to add to your TBR.
September 14, 2026
Meh
Personally, I wouldn't categorize this as a psychological thriller but more of a murder mystery. I found myself skimming through some of it because I prefer stories with more dialogue and this book had more narrative. I figured out pretty quickly too the whodunit. The basis for the 3 star review was due to the ending which, at least for me, saved it from being a 2 star review. I did like the house though!
Personally, I wouldn't categorize this as a psychological thriller but more of a murder mystery. I found myself skimming through some of it because I prefer stories with more dialogue and this book had more narrative. I figured out pretty quickly too the whodunit. The basis for the 3 star review was due to the ending which, at least for me, saved it from being a 2 star review. I did like the house though!
August 13, 2026
i so wanted to dnf this book, but im glad i didn't and pushed through as it was a bit slow in the beginning, but omg, once it started rolling it left me speechless, plot twist after plot twist, and the ending????? it even made me tear up a bit, so worth it.
July 28, 2026
This book definitely has a slow build and it took me a while to really get interested. The plot was intriguing and I was wondering where it was going to go. I didn’t see the plot twist coming, just because it was so insane. It definitely shocked me but I’m still not sure if that’s in a good way or a bad way. Definitely a flawed main character who’s just trying to decipher her mother’s dying words. This book will not go the way you expect it to go, which can always be a good thing in a thriller.
June 23, 2026
GIVEN TO READ AS AN ARC FOR AN HONEST REVIEW BEFORE PUBLISHING.
This book started off really well and I was enjoying it but then I got bored and struggled to get back into it as it wasn’t gripping for me.
Sadly I have had to ditch it.
This book started off really well and I was enjoying it but then I got bored and struggled to get back into it as it wasn’t gripping for me.
Sadly I have had to ditch it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of The Glass House before publication. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
The Glass House is an atmospheric psychological thriller about grief, family secrets and one woman’s determination to uncover the truth about her sister’s death. Years after the tragedy tore her family apart, the main character returns to the place she once called home. Her parents had vowed never to go back, but she has never been able to let go of what happened or accept that she knows the whole truth.
The small family home that once stood there has now been replaced by an impressive glass holiday house where tourists come to stay. Determined to investigate without attracting attention, she carefully plans her return and makes sure that the local people will not recognise her. She hopes that by posing as an ordinary visitor, she will finally persuade people to speak openly about the past and reveal what they know about her sister’s death.
However, it quickly becomes obvious that her presence is not welcome. Conversations stop when she enters a room, the locals behave strangely around her and she begins to feel that she is being watched. When objects inside the house appear to have been moved and she notices a figure outside in the darkness, she is forced to consider whether someone has discovered her real identity. The glass house may look beautiful, but its openness and isolation make it feel increasingly exposed and unsafe.
The setting is one of the strongest parts of the novel. The contrast between the modern, luxurious property and the painful history beneath it creates an unsettling atmosphere. The house represents the attempt to cover up the past and replace it with something attractive and profitable, yet the memories connected to the land have not disappeared. Its glass walls also create the disturbing feeling that the main character can be seen from every direction while never knowing who might be watching her.
I enjoyed the way the mystery develops through local suspicion, old relationships and unreliable memories. Almost everyone appears to know more than they are willing to admit, and the silence surrounding the sister’s death becomes as significant as the crime itself. The main character must work out whether people are protecting the killer, protecting themselves or genuinely trying to prevent her from uncovering something that could destroy what remains of her family.
The themes of grief and guilt give the story more emotional depth than a straightforward murder mystery. The main character has spent years carrying unanswered questions and is prepared to place herself in danger because she cannot move forward without knowing what happened. Her investigation is therefore personal rather than professional, which explains some of her more impulsive decisions. At times, I wanted her to be more cautious, but her desperation for answers remained understandable.
The novel maintains a steady sense of unease rather than relying entirely on action. Small incidents gradually become more threatening, and the isolation of the house makes it difficult for the main character to know whether she is genuinely in danger or whether the memories associated with the location are affecting her judgment. The short chapters and regular discoveries make it an easy book to continue reading.
There are several possible suspects and enough secrets to keep the central mystery interesting. The author repeatedly encourages the reader to question whose version of the past can be trusted. Some revelations were more convincing than others, and a few elements required suspension of disbelief, particularly as the story became more dramatic towards the end. I also felt that certain secondary characters could have been developed further, as some seemed to exist mainly to create suspicion or deliver information.
Although there are plenty of twists, the strongest aspect of the book is its atmosphere. The sense of returning to a place that has physically changed while still being haunted by the same tragedy is effective. The main character is surrounded by people who remember her family, even though she is pretending to be a stranger, and this creates a constant tension between what she knows, what others know and what everyone is trying to conceal.
The final part of the novel brings the buried secrets into the open and provides answers to the central questions. While I suspected part of the truth before it was revealed, there were still enough changes of direction to hold my attention. The conclusion is dramatic and fits the dark, claustrophobic feeling that builds throughout the story.
Overall, The Glass House is an enjoyable psychological thriller with an intriguing premise, an effective isolated setting and a strong atmosphere of secrecy and danger. It explores how a family tragedy can continue shaping people’s lives long after the event itself and how difficult it can be to uncover the truth when an entire community appears determined to keep the past hidden.
This will appeal to readers who enjoy mysteries involving murdered siblings, suspicious small communities, hidden identities, family secrets and protagonists returning home to confront an unresolved tragedy. It was a quick and suspenseful read, although some of the twists and character decisions prevented it from becoming a particularly memorable one for me.
The Glass House is an atmospheric psychological thriller about grief, family secrets and one woman’s determination to uncover the truth about her sister’s death. Years after the tragedy tore her family apart, the main character returns to the place she once called home. Her parents had vowed never to go back, but she has never been able to let go of what happened or accept that she knows the whole truth.
The small family home that once stood there has now been replaced by an impressive glass holiday house where tourists come to stay. Determined to investigate without attracting attention, she carefully plans her return and makes sure that the local people will not recognise her. She hopes that by posing as an ordinary visitor, she will finally persuade people to speak openly about the past and reveal what they know about her sister’s death.
However, it quickly becomes obvious that her presence is not welcome. Conversations stop when she enters a room, the locals behave strangely around her and she begins to feel that she is being watched. When objects inside the house appear to have been moved and she notices a figure outside in the darkness, she is forced to consider whether someone has discovered her real identity. The glass house may look beautiful, but its openness and isolation make it feel increasingly exposed and unsafe.
The setting is one of the strongest parts of the novel. The contrast between the modern, luxurious property and the painful history beneath it creates an unsettling atmosphere. The house represents the attempt to cover up the past and replace it with something attractive and profitable, yet the memories connected to the land have not disappeared. Its glass walls also create the disturbing feeling that the main character can be seen from every direction while never knowing who might be watching her.
I enjoyed the way the mystery develops through local suspicion, old relationships and unreliable memories. Almost everyone appears to know more than they are willing to admit, and the silence surrounding the sister’s death becomes as significant as the crime itself. The main character must work out whether people are protecting the killer, protecting themselves or genuinely trying to prevent her from uncovering something that could destroy what remains of her family.
The themes of grief and guilt give the story more emotional depth than a straightforward murder mystery. The main character has spent years carrying unanswered questions and is prepared to place herself in danger because she cannot move forward without knowing what happened. Her investigation is therefore personal rather than professional, which explains some of her more impulsive decisions. At times, I wanted her to be more cautious, but her desperation for answers remained understandable.
The novel maintains a steady sense of unease rather than relying entirely on action. Small incidents gradually become more threatening, and the isolation of the house makes it difficult for the main character to know whether she is genuinely in danger or whether the memories associated with the location are affecting her judgment. The short chapters and regular discoveries make it an easy book to continue reading.
There are several possible suspects and enough secrets to keep the central mystery interesting. The author repeatedly encourages the reader to question whose version of the past can be trusted. Some revelations were more convincing than others, and a few elements required suspension of disbelief, particularly as the story became more dramatic towards the end. I also felt that certain secondary characters could have been developed further, as some seemed to exist mainly to create suspicion or deliver information.
Although there are plenty of twists, the strongest aspect of the book is its atmosphere. The sense of returning to a place that has physically changed while still being haunted by the same tragedy is effective. The main character is surrounded by people who remember her family, even though she is pretending to be a stranger, and this creates a constant tension between what she knows, what others know and what everyone is trying to conceal.
The final part of the novel brings the buried secrets into the open and provides answers to the central questions. While I suspected part of the truth before it was revealed, there were still enough changes of direction to hold my attention. The conclusion is dramatic and fits the dark, claustrophobic feeling that builds throughout the story.
Overall, The Glass House is an enjoyable psychological thriller with an intriguing premise, an effective isolated setting and a strong atmosphere of secrecy and danger. It explores how a family tragedy can continue shaping people’s lives long after the event itself and how difficult it can be to uncover the truth when an entire community appears determined to keep the past hidden.
This will appeal to readers who enjoy mysteries involving murdered siblings, suspicious small communities, hidden identities, family secrets and protagonists returning home to confront an unresolved tragedy. It was a quick and suspenseful read, although some of the twists and character decisions prevented it from becoming a particularly memorable one for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins is a dark, slow-burn psychological thriller that does an excellent job of building a quiet, claustrophobic sense of dread.
The story begins with a heavy weight of grief. Years ago, Jessica’s sister was murdered but she has very few memories of life with her sister. When her mother passes away, her dying words make Jessica determined to get to the bottom of the tragedy and prove the innocence of the man convicted of killing her sister.
Jessica heads back to the Lake District and books a stay at The Glass House – a luxury, modern holiday home built directly on the plot of land where the family’s farmhouse once stood. Using her middle name and mother’s maiden name to ensure the locals don’t recognise her, she quietly beings probing the community for answers. It soon becomes clear that some of the locals want the past left alone.
Tension escalates from psychological unease to physical danger when she returns to the house to find her belongings subtly moved, a shadowy figure watching from a distance, and the sound of shattering glass in the house.
The strength of this book lies in its flawed characters. Jessica is a driven and highly obsessive individual. Her determination to find her sister’s killer makes her a compelling protagonist but her paranoia begins to make her an unreliable narrator. As her belongings are moved and the glass walls offer no privacy, her mental grip soon starts to slip and the reader is left wondering if the things she is experiencing are imaginary or real, and which is the most chilling reality.
The guarded locals act as a collective wall of silence. Jenkins writes them with a very effective layer of hostility which adds to the feeling of dread – what could they possibly be hiding?
The house itself acts as a silent antagonist. It is designed to expose everything, which is a direct contrast to the guarded village locals.
Without spoiling it for other readers, the central twist of the novel completely upends everything we are led to believe about the night of the murder. Jenkins does a fantastic job of setting up red herrings, leading us to look at the insular community, only to pull the rug out in the closing chapters. I definitely did not see it coming!
This twist shifts the book from a standard whodunit plotline into a deeply tragic family drama. This is a fantastically tense and highly atmospheric thriller with a heavy dose of paranoia and characters you aren’t quite sure you can trust – if this is your bag then it is well worth a read.
The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins is a dark, slow-burn psychological thriller that does an excellent job of building a quiet, claustrophobic sense of dread.
The story begins with a heavy weight of grief. Years ago, Jessica’s sister was murdered but she has very few memories of life with her sister. When her mother passes away, her dying words make Jessica determined to get to the bottom of the tragedy and prove the innocence of the man convicted of killing her sister.
Jessica heads back to the Lake District and books a stay at The Glass House – a luxury, modern holiday home built directly on the plot of land where the family’s farmhouse once stood. Using her middle name and mother’s maiden name to ensure the locals don’t recognise her, she quietly beings probing the community for answers. It soon becomes clear that some of the locals want the past left alone.
Tension escalates from psychological unease to physical danger when she returns to the house to find her belongings subtly moved, a shadowy figure watching from a distance, and the sound of shattering glass in the house.
The strength of this book lies in its flawed characters. Jessica is a driven and highly obsessive individual. Her determination to find her sister’s killer makes her a compelling protagonist but her paranoia begins to make her an unreliable narrator. As her belongings are moved and the glass walls offer no privacy, her mental grip soon starts to slip and the reader is left wondering if the things she is experiencing are imaginary or real, and which is the most chilling reality.
The guarded locals act as a collective wall of silence. Jenkins writes them with a very effective layer of hostility which adds to the feeling of dread – what could they possibly be hiding?
The house itself acts as a silent antagonist. It is designed to expose everything, which is a direct contrast to the guarded village locals.
Without spoiling it for other readers, the central twist of the novel completely upends everything we are led to believe about the night of the murder. Jenkins does a fantastic job of setting up red herrings, leading us to look at the insular community, only to pull the rug out in the closing chapters. I definitely did not see it coming!
This twist shifts the book from a standard whodunit plotline into a deeply tragic family drama. This is a fantastically tense and highly atmospheric thriller with a heavy dose of paranoia and characters you aren’t quite sure you can trust – if this is your bag then it is well worth a read.
July 29, 2026
I received this ARC through Netgalley, Bookouture, and Victoria Jenkins. I will be giving my honest and unbiased review based on my extensive love of all thing's psychological thriller/mystery.
The Glass House was a very quick and easily digestible read for me. The premise had many unique elements to it, and I was definitely along for the ride and invested in learning the truth behind her sister's death. Anything that advertises as being packed with twists is like a siren call straight to my brain!
The basics: We meet Jessie. She is in hospice caring for her mother at the end of her life. Her mother makes a proclamation near death that turns Jessie's world upside down and sends her rushing down a rabbit hole related to the murder of Jessie's sister, Hannah. Hannah was brutally shot and killed, allegedly, by Lewis Holt, who is now coming to the end of his sentence for murdering Hannah 25 years ago when she was only 14. Jessie sets on a journey to her old home in the village of Hawthorn Fell, the location of Hannah's murder. She also sets to lifting old rocks hoping to uncover some hidden truth about the day her sister was taken from the family. She meets many characters along the way and an atmosphere of cold, spooky, dread is set forth. Who in this town can Jessie trust? Who is trying to stop her from uncovering the twisted truth of her sisters' demise? Does she actually want the answers to the questions she is now asking? See for yourself...the twists will keep you locked in!
Parts I loved: The descriptions of the idyllic town, surroundings, atmosphere. The tone that was set - I always love a spooky premise where you are left constantly wondering is this paranormal, psychosis, or is someone messing with the main character intentionally? The way all of the loose ends get tied into a perfect bow at the end of the story. I may not have liked what HAPPENED - but I liked that I got all of the ANSWERS.
Parts that didn't quite line up for me: Character development. I wasn't invested in any character other than Jessica. The rest of them popped up occasionally and I felt like I barely knew them. They felt like an afterthought. And this is very much just a personal thing for me, the introduction of a love interest that feels like half the story or barely any of the story. I needed more there!
Overall, this book reeled me in, kept me engaged, and had me needing to know - what happened January 31 1999 to Hannah Butterfield? And to me, that is what a good book does. It keeps you wanting more, even if the answers you land on feel bland or unsatisfying at certain points, the twists keep you reading on, thinking, what is the next thing?
I would absolutely recommend this psych thriller to my friends, and I hope you will all dive into the story of Hannah Butterfield with me!
Happy reading!
The Glass House was a very quick and easily digestible read for me. The premise had many unique elements to it, and I was definitely along for the ride and invested in learning the truth behind her sister's death. Anything that advertises as being packed with twists is like a siren call straight to my brain!
The basics: We meet Jessie. She is in hospice caring for her mother at the end of her life. Her mother makes a proclamation near death that turns Jessie's world upside down and sends her rushing down a rabbit hole related to the murder of Jessie's sister, Hannah. Hannah was brutally shot and killed, allegedly, by Lewis Holt, who is now coming to the end of his sentence for murdering Hannah 25 years ago when she was only 14. Jessie sets on a journey to her old home in the village of Hawthorn Fell, the location of Hannah's murder. She also sets to lifting old rocks hoping to uncover some hidden truth about the day her sister was taken from the family. She meets many characters along the way and an atmosphere of cold, spooky, dread is set forth. Who in this town can Jessie trust? Who is trying to stop her from uncovering the twisted truth of her sisters' demise? Does she actually want the answers to the questions she is now asking? See for yourself...the twists will keep you locked in!
Parts I loved: The descriptions of the idyllic town, surroundings, atmosphere. The tone that was set - I always love a spooky premise where you are left constantly wondering is this paranormal, psychosis, or is someone messing with the main character intentionally? The way all of the loose ends get tied into a perfect bow at the end of the story. I may not have liked what HAPPENED - but I liked that I got all of the ANSWERS.
Parts that didn't quite line up for me: Character development. I wasn't invested in any character other than Jessica. The rest of them popped up occasionally and I felt like I barely knew them. They felt like an afterthought. And this is very much just a personal thing for me, the introduction of a love interest that feels like half the story or barely any of the story. I needed more there!
Overall, this book reeled me in, kept me engaged, and had me needing to know - what happened January 31 1999 to Hannah Butterfield? And to me, that is what a good book does. It keeps you wanting more, even if the answers you land on feel bland or unsatisfying at certain points, the twists keep you reading on, thinking, what is the next thing?
I would absolutely recommend this psych thriller to my friends, and I hope you will all dive into the story of Hannah Butterfield with me!
Happy reading!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have not read any books by this author until now, but I did purchase one recently and its on my tbr list.
The Glass House is a little slower paced thriller that centers around grief, guilt, and family secrets.
Years ago, Jessica's sister was murdered when she was just a teenager. A man was sent to prison for the murder. Jessica's mom and dad flee from the home where they suffered grief and tragedy. Years later, during the time that Jessica's mom is dying, her mom makes a deathbed revelation and states that the man that went to prison for the murder should never had gone to prison. That makes Jessica determined to find out the unanswered questions about her sister's death. She returns to what was once the place where they lived, the house they lived is, is gone but in its place is a holiday retreat home. She decides to come back as a visitor and hopes no one recognizes her, so as to investigate, ask questions, and see what she can find out. Unfortunately, the people that live around there don't want the past brought up again and things happen to make it difficult for Jessica to get answers. I am not going to go into all those.
This story had some unreliable characters, family secrets and drama, twists and turns and some red herrings and the story is a little bit of a whodunnit but then it becomes something much more. I don't want to spoil it but where the story ended up was totally not what I was expecting, it was a great big unexpected twist so much so it gave me whiplash! I did not see that coming! Though it was a little slower paced, the short chapters made it an easy read and kept me tuned in and reading to get to the whiplash and concussion I mean conclusion. I enjoyed the story and will certainly be reading other books by the author.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the complimentary copy of the story.
The Glass House is a little slower paced thriller that centers around grief, guilt, and family secrets.
Years ago, Jessica's sister was murdered when she was just a teenager. A man was sent to prison for the murder. Jessica's mom and dad flee from the home where they suffered grief and tragedy. Years later, during the time that Jessica's mom is dying, her mom makes a deathbed revelation and states that the man that went to prison for the murder should never had gone to prison. That makes Jessica determined to find out the unanswered questions about her sister's death. She returns to what was once the place where they lived, the house they lived is, is gone but in its place is a holiday retreat home. She decides to come back as a visitor and hopes no one recognizes her, so as to investigate, ask questions, and see what she can find out. Unfortunately, the people that live around there don't want the past brought up again and things happen to make it difficult for Jessica to get answers. I am not going to go into all those.
This story had some unreliable characters, family secrets and drama, twists and turns and some red herrings and the story is a little bit of a whodunnit but then it becomes something much more. I don't want to spoil it but where the story ended up was totally not what I was expecting, it was a great big unexpected twist so much so it gave me whiplash! I did not see that coming! Though it was a little slower paced, the short chapters made it an easy read and kept me tuned in and reading to get to the whiplash and concussion I mean conclusion. I enjoyed the story and will certainly be reading other books by the author.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the complimentary copy of the story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Glass House was an addictive psychological thriller that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. Every time I thought I had the mystery figured out, another twist sent me in a completely different direction.
The story follows a woman returning to the place where her sister was murdered years ago, determined to uncover the truth despite her family's painful past. What begins as a search for answers quickly turns into a tense game of cat and mouse as it becomes clear someone is watching her every move.
The atmosphere was one of my favorite parts of this book. The isolated setting, the luxurious glass house hiding dark secrets, and the constant feeling that something wasn't quite right created an unsettling sense of suspense that never let up. I found myself questioning every character and every clue, which made the mystery even more engaging.
The pacing was excellent, with short chapters that made it nearly impossible to stop reading. The tension continued to build as more secrets came to light, and while I managed to guess one small piece of the puzzle, the final revelations still surprised me.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers filled with family secrets, unreliable characters, tense atmospheres, and plenty of twists, I highly recommend picking this one up. It was a gripping read from beginning to end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows a woman returning to the place where her sister was murdered years ago, determined to uncover the truth despite her family's painful past. What begins as a search for answers quickly turns into a tense game of cat and mouse as it becomes clear someone is watching her every move.
The atmosphere was one of my favorite parts of this book. The isolated setting, the luxurious glass house hiding dark secrets, and the constant feeling that something wasn't quite right created an unsettling sense of suspense that never let up. I found myself questioning every character and every clue, which made the mystery even more engaging.
The pacing was excellent, with short chapters that made it nearly impossible to stop reading. The tension continued to build as more secrets came to light, and while I managed to guess one small piece of the puzzle, the final revelations still surprised me.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers filled with family secrets, unreliable characters, tense atmospheres, and plenty of twists, I highly recommend picking this one up. It was a gripping read from beginning to end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Standing in the impressive hallway of his luxury holiday home, it's hard to imagine our little house once stood here. Someone wanted to bury the ghosts of the past when they built the glass house and tourists came for miles to stay here. I've planned every detail of the trip and made certain the locals won't recognise me here. At first it's the little things like whispers and threatening looks. Then one night, when I return to the house, I notice my possessions are out of place and I'm sure I can see a figure in the darkness outside. Then I hear the sound of breaking glass downstairs and my heart shatters. Someone has been watching my every move. They must know who I really am. But when I come face to face with my sister's killer, am I prepared for what I find?
Be prepared to lose a few hours when you pick this addictive read up. Determined to uncover the truth, Jessica returns to the place her sister was murdered twenty-five years ago, but someone has been watching her every move.
The pace is slow to begin with but it's not long before it picks up. This whodunit is filled with twists. Everytime I thought I know who the killer was, I was wrong. There's an eerie atmosphere to this book. This is a tense and gripping read.
Published 22nd July 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #VictoriaJenkins for my ARC of #TheGlassHouse in exchange for an honest review.
Be prepared to lose a few hours when you pick this addictive read up. Determined to uncover the truth, Jessica returns to the place her sister was murdered twenty-five years ago, but someone has been watching her every move.
The pace is slow to begin with but it's not long before it picks up. This whodunit is filled with twists. Everytime I thought I know who the killer was, I was wrong. There's an eerie atmosphere to this book. This is a tense and gripping read.
Published 22nd July 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #VictoriaJenkins for my ARC of #TheGlassHouse in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Glass House is a darkly compelling psychological thriller that combines elements of guilt and grief with a compulsion to know the truth.
Jessica's sister was murdered when they were children and when she determines to return to the village she once called home, she books a stay in the glass house that has replaced her old family home. Jessica wants to remain anonymous and so she assumes a different name and starts to delve into the village history on the premise of researching a book. The locals quickly close ranks and Jessica is sure she is being watched. The glass walls of the house offer no privacy and things inside the house are being moved around. Creepy!
The setting creates a tense atmosphere and I was fully immersed in Jessica's quest for the truth. She is determined yet compulsive and as she tries to keep her personal interest in the case under wraps, wth the increasing hostility from the villagers feeding her paranoia, I began to wonder if she was imagining the whole thing!
Someone is clearly protecting the killer and I honestly had no inkling of who that was, as there were several people who I considered suspects, but I couldn't fathom what their motive would have been. In all of my armchair sleuthing, not once did I come close to the truth, so the twist, when it came, left me speechless.
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Victoria Jenkins and Bookouture, for an ARC of this book.
Jessica's sister was murdered when they were children and when she determines to return to the village she once called home, she books a stay in the glass house that has replaced her old family home. Jessica wants to remain anonymous and so she assumes a different name and starts to delve into the village history on the premise of researching a book. The locals quickly close ranks and Jessica is sure she is being watched. The glass walls of the house offer no privacy and things inside the house are being moved around. Creepy!
The setting creates a tense atmosphere and I was fully immersed in Jessica's quest for the truth. She is determined yet compulsive and as she tries to keep her personal interest in the case under wraps, wth the increasing hostility from the villagers feeding her paranoia, I began to wonder if she was imagining the whole thing!
Someone is clearly protecting the killer and I honestly had no inkling of who that was, as there were several people who I considered suspects, but I couldn't fathom what their motive would have been. In all of my armchair sleuthing, not once did I come close to the truth, so the twist, when it came, left me speechless.
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Victoria Jenkins and Bookouture, for an ARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Glass House by Victoria Jackson.
Fans of Frieda McFadden will love this twist-filled psychological thriller. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another surprise was waiting around the corner. The twists kept coming long after I expected them to stop!
The story starts a bit slowly, but don't let that discourage you. Once it gains momentum, it's hard to put down. Jessica returns to her childhood home to uncover the truth behind her sister's murder, and what follows is a suspenseful journey filled with secrets, suspicion, and plenty of red herrings.
I genuinely did not see the ending coming—and that's saying something, because I'm usually pretty good at figuring out whodunits before the final reveal. In this case, every time I thought I had identified the murderer, another possibility emerged.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the eerie atmosphere of the Glass House itself. Are the strange events Jessica experiences real, or is she imagining them? The uncertainty adds an extra layer of tension throughout the novel.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with unreliable perceptions, multiple suspects, and shocking twists, The Glass House is definitely worth picking up.
Fans of Frieda McFadden will love this twist-filled psychological thriller. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another surprise was waiting around the corner. The twists kept coming long after I expected them to stop!
The story starts a bit slowly, but don't let that discourage you. Once it gains momentum, it's hard to put down. Jessica returns to her childhood home to uncover the truth behind her sister's murder, and what follows is a suspenseful journey filled with secrets, suspicion, and plenty of red herrings.
I genuinely did not see the ending coming—and that's saying something, because I'm usually pretty good at figuring out whodunits before the final reveal. In this case, every time I thought I had identified the murderer, another possibility emerged.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the eerie atmosphere of the Glass House itself. Are the strange events Jessica experiences real, or is she imagining them? The uncertainty adds an extra layer of tension throughout the novel.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with unreliable perceptions, multiple suspects, and shocking twists, The Glass House is definitely worth picking up.
July 31, 2026
For me, one of the most important aspects of a psychological thriller is the setting. If it doesn't hit right along with the characters and plot, I lose focus. The Glass House NAILS it! The house was built to rid of a past stain and literally bring new life to the property by making it both an intriguing place to stay and profitable. It's a little obtuse in how it's meant for everything to be seen while simultaneously hiding everything from before.
The pacing was a little slow for my liking, but there was enough tension and twists to help make up for that. Each chapter is short and darkly poetic in its twists, family secrets, and deep grief/guilt that plagues everyone this tragedy touched.
Jessica's sister was murdered in the house that previously stood where the glass house now looms. When her mother reveals truth on her deathbed about how the wrong man is in prison for her sister's murder, Jessica decides to get the truth. She seeks locals for answers to all the unanswered questions on the hope that no one will realize who she is. But they are determined to keep the secrets hidden. Soon, she begins to feel like she's being watched and other suspenseful actions that will make your hair stand on end.
Overall, a good read that I enjoyed!
The pacing was a little slow for my liking, but there was enough tension and twists to help make up for that. Each chapter is short and darkly poetic in its twists, family secrets, and deep grief/guilt that plagues everyone this tragedy touched.
Jessica's sister was murdered in the house that previously stood where the glass house now looms. When her mother reveals truth on her deathbed about how the wrong man is in prison for her sister's murder, Jessica decides to get the truth. She seeks locals for answers to all the unanswered questions on the hope that no one will realize who she is. But they are determined to keep the secrets hidden. Soon, she begins to feel like she's being watched and other suspenseful actions that will make your hair stand on end.
Overall, a good read that I enjoyed!
September 29, 2026
Just finished reading The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins, and I really enjoyed it.
The story revolves around a long-buried murder and the search for the truth behind what really happened. I liked how the mystery slowly unfolds and how the suspense keeps building as the story progresses.
The pacing was really good, and the book never felt boring. There were enough twists and turns to keep me interested, and I was constantly trying to figure out what was actually going on.
What I especially liked was the climax. I didn’t see it coming, and it was satisfying to see how everything finally came together. The whole atmosphere of the Glass House and the way the story was built around it also made the reading experience more interesting.
Overall, this was a really nice psychological thriller. It was engaging, twisty, and kept me wanting to know what would happen next. Definitely a good read if you enjoy psychological thrillers with secrets, suspense, and an unpredictable ending.
A solid thriller and a really enjoyable read!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with free access to an ARC of this book. Congratulations to Victoria Jenkins on the release of The Glass House! Wishing the book great success.
The story revolves around a long-buried murder and the search for the truth behind what really happened. I liked how the mystery slowly unfolds and how the suspense keeps building as the story progresses.
The pacing was really good, and the book never felt boring. There were enough twists and turns to keep me interested, and I was constantly trying to figure out what was actually going on.
What I especially liked was the climax. I didn’t see it coming, and it was satisfying to see how everything finally came together. The whole atmosphere of the Glass House and the way the story was built around it also made the reading experience more interesting.
Overall, this was a really nice psychological thriller. It was engaging, twisty, and kept me wanting to know what would happen next. Definitely a good read if you enjoy psychological thrillers with secrets, suspense, and an unpredictable ending.
A solid thriller and a really enjoyable read!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with free access to an ARC of this book. Congratulations to Victoria Jenkins on the release of The Glass House! Wishing the book great success.
July 24, 2026
Thank you to Bookouture for a copy of The Glass House. Here are my thoughts.
Jessica’s sister died tragically when they were kids, and afterwards her family moved away from the secluded house. But now, on her death bed, Jessica’s mother reveals a secret to her daughter. Jessica decides to head back to her childhood town and try to see what really happened to her sister under the guise as a true crime writer.
I enjoyed the atmosphere of this novel. The author did a wonderful job of capturing being in a small town where the presence of a new person causes a ripple. Jessica felt isolated as she reached out to people who had some history with her sister’s case. I also enjoyed the description of the house and the strange occurrences there. It was chilling at times and left me really wanting to know what would happen next.
To me, this one read more like a mystery than a thriller. It was a little bit slower and more investigative than a whole bunch of plot points happening quickly, and the wrap up is quite monumental. I didn’t see it coming and it made me want to reread the book right away to see if I could pick up on any hints.
I think this book makes for a great cozy autumn read, to curl up with next to a fire and a glass of wine or hot cocoa!
Jessica’s sister died tragically when they were kids, and afterwards her family moved away from the secluded house. But now, on her death bed, Jessica’s mother reveals a secret to her daughter. Jessica decides to head back to her childhood town and try to see what really happened to her sister under the guise as a true crime writer.
I enjoyed the atmosphere of this novel. The author did a wonderful job of capturing being in a small town where the presence of a new person causes a ripple. Jessica felt isolated as she reached out to people who had some history with her sister’s case. I also enjoyed the description of the house and the strange occurrences there. It was chilling at times and left me really wanting to know what would happen next.
To me, this one read more like a mystery than a thriller. It was a little bit slower and more investigative than a whole bunch of plot points happening quickly, and the wrap up is quite monumental. I didn’t see it coming and it made me want to reread the book right away to see if I could pick up on any hints.
I think this book makes for a great cozy autumn read, to curl up with next to a fire and a glass of wine or hot cocoa!
July 29, 2026
3.75 ⭐ Rounded up
The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins was a complete thrill ride that sucked me in from page one!
Returning to a small town and community 20+ years after her sister's murder changes Jessica/Emma’s life even more than she thought possible. Driven by a dying statement from her mother, Emma is determined to find out what really happened that night.
She packs up and heads back, staying in "The Glass House" a luxury holiday home built directly on the site of her family’s old farm and the center of their tragedy.
I felt like I was right there staying in the house with her, trying to figure out who to trust.
The atmosphere is tense, spooky, and full of unrest: threatening looks from locals, shifted possessions, figures outside in the dark, and breaking glass... it NEVER let up. (Fun fact: I’m staying in an Airbnb this weekend myself, and reading this definitely gave me second thoughts! 😳)
If you love fast-paced, twist-filled psychological thrillers with small-town secrets and high tension, add this to your TBR immediately. Huge thanks to Bookouture for the gifted copy!
The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins was a complete thrill ride that sucked me in from page one!
Returning to a small town and community 20+ years after her sister's murder changes Jessica/Emma’s life even more than she thought possible. Driven by a dying statement from her mother, Emma is determined to find out what really happened that night.
She packs up and heads back, staying in "The Glass House" a luxury holiday home built directly on the site of her family’s old farm and the center of their tragedy.
I felt like I was right there staying in the house with her, trying to figure out who to trust.
The atmosphere is tense, spooky, and full of unrest: threatening looks from locals, shifted possessions, figures outside in the dark, and breaking glass... it NEVER let up. (Fun fact: I’m staying in an Airbnb this weekend myself, and reading this definitely gave me second thoughts! 😳)
If you love fast-paced, twist-filled psychological thrillers with small-town secrets and high tension, add this to your TBR immediately. Huge thanks to Bookouture for the gifted copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Character-driven psychological thriller readers will be drawn to The Glass House like a moth to a flame. Jessica was determined to find out what really happened to her older sister who was killed at the age of 14. After the crime 25 years ago, a man was imprisoned for the crime but questions remained. Under the guise of a true-crime writer, Jessica stayed at the Glass House while researching. The past became her obsession. Villagers watched and legends swirled. Discoveries and secrets took her breath away as she became more and more involved.
Isolated house tropes like this are my jam, especially with storms kicking the suspense up a notch. The slow pace pulled me in and held me captive. I appreciate that the family drama aspect wasn’t riddled with over-the-top messiness as many thrillers are. The gorgeous writing evoked a pleasant feel of unease and the ending was enjoyable. All in all, a rock solid read.
My sincere thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with an early digital copy of this alluring thriller.
July 14, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This suspense thriller makes for a great nighttime read, especially if you can imagine yourself living in a glass house, it adds an extra layer of unease to the story.
Rather than relying on jump scares, the novel focuses on gradually unraveling a mystery. The writing is accessible and engaging, particularly when it comes to uncovering the secrets of the past, which kept me invested throughout.
I didn't quite understand the inclusion of the romantic subplot. There wasn't enough build-up or chemistry between the characters for it to feel convincing, so it didn't really work for me. While I can see that it may have been intended to evoke discomfort in light of certain plot developments, it ultimately felt unnecessary and somewhat redundant.
Although I appreciated the twist at the end, I found it fairly predictable. Even so, I still enjoyed the conclusion and thought it wrapped the story up in a satisfying way.
This suspense thriller makes for a great nighttime read, especially if you can imagine yourself living in a glass house, it adds an extra layer of unease to the story.
Rather than relying on jump scares, the novel focuses on gradually unraveling a mystery. The writing is accessible and engaging, particularly when it comes to uncovering the secrets of the past, which kept me invested throughout.
I didn't quite understand the inclusion of the romantic subplot. There wasn't enough build-up or chemistry between the characters for it to feel convincing, so it didn't really work for me. While I can see that it may have been intended to evoke discomfort in light of certain plot developments, it ultimately felt unnecessary and somewhat redundant.
Although I appreciated the twist at the end, I found it fairly predictable. Even so, I still enjoyed the conclusion and thought it wrapped the story up in a satisfying way.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Anyone who loves Freida McFadden needs to give Victoria Jenkins a try. She delivers the same addictive, edge-of-your-seat suspense, but somehow turns the intensity up even higher. She's a master of twists. You'll spot a few coming, feel pretty clever, and then she'll take those very twists and bend them into something so unexpected that you'll wonder how you ever thought you had it figured out.
What makes The Glass House stand out from Jenkins' other books is its simplicity. There's no juggling multiple points of view or dual timelines. Instead, the single POV pulls you deeper into the mystery, making every revelation hit even harder. From the opening pages, the story grabs hold and refuses to let go.
If you're looking for a thriller that will keep you guessing until the very last page and leave you immediately searching for another Victoria Jenkins book, The Glass House belongs at the top of your TBR.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
What makes The Glass House stand out from Jenkins' other books is its simplicity. There's no juggling multiple points of view or dual timelines. Instead, the single POV pulls you deeper into the mystery, making every revelation hit even harder. From the opening pages, the story grabs hold and refuses to let go.
If you're looking for a thriller that will keep you guessing until the very last page and leave you immediately searching for another Victoria Jenkins book, The Glass House belongs at the top of your TBR.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🚫 DNF at 30%
The premise immediately hooked me—an isolated glass house, a decades-old murder, family secrets, and eerie local folklore. On paper, this had everything I usually love in a thriller.
Unfortunately, after giving it 30%, I found myself struggling to stay engaged. The story felt weighed down by lengthy descriptions and repeated explanations, and while there were several moments that should have been suspenseful—unexplained noises in the house, a mysterious stranger, and unsettling folklore—they never created the tension or sense of unease I was hoping for. Instead of wondering what would happen next, I found myself wondering when something—anything—was going to happen.
I love slow-burn, atmospheric thrillers when the setting, characters, and suspense work together to pull me into the story. Sadly, this one never clicked for me, and I ultimately decided it wasn't the right fit.
The premise immediately hooked me—an isolated glass house, a decades-old murder, family secrets, and eerie local folklore. On paper, this had everything I usually love in a thriller.
Unfortunately, after giving it 30%, I found myself struggling to stay engaged. The story felt weighed down by lengthy descriptions and repeated explanations, and while there were several moments that should have been suspenseful—unexplained noises in the house, a mysterious stranger, and unsettling folklore—they never created the tension or sense of unease I was hoping for. Instead of wondering what would happen next, I found myself wondering when something—anything—was going to happen.
I love slow-burn, atmospheric thrillers when the setting, characters, and suspense work together to pull me into the story. Sadly, this one never clicked for me, and I ultimately decided it wasn't the right fit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2026
Jessica's mother's dying words leave her questioning everything she thought she knew. Now, Jessica finds herself renting a luxurious, recently built, Airbnb that stands on what used to be her family's farm. Jessica is determined to find out if what her mother declared is true - that the man convicted of murdering her sister was actually innocent.
I had a difficult time with this book. The first half is quite slow and drags at times. When the book picks up, it is just too much. Everything that happens in the second half feels unconnected and extremely unrealistic. It all feels like three or four separate stories attempting to be one mystery. Between the pacing and the underdeveloped, multi-plots, there was simply no balance or flow. The characters are all unlikable and unrelatable. The ending is both tragic and unsatisfying. The entire book left me feeling depressed - just not a book for me.
I had a difficult time with this book. The first half is quite slow and drags at times. When the book picks up, it is just too much. Everything that happens in the second half feels unconnected and extremely unrealistic. It all feels like three or four separate stories attempting to be one mystery. Between the pacing and the underdeveloped, multi-plots, there was simply no balance or flow. The characters are all unlikable and unrelatable. The ending is both tragic and unsatisfying. The entire book left me feeling depressed - just not a book for me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a tense, gripping thriller that kept me guessing until the very end. The story is packed with suspense, secrets, and plenty of twists that made it impossible to put down.
The atmosphere is wonderfully eerie, with the luxury holiday home hiding a dark past and the feeling that someone is always watching. I really felt for the main character as she risked everything to uncover the truth about her sister’s death. Every chapter revealed another clue, making me question who could be trusted.
The ending was satisfying and full of surprises, tying everything together in a way I didn’t see coming.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with family secrets, small town mysteries, and unexpected twists, I highly recommend this book. A compelling page turner that will keep you hooked until the last page.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC
The atmosphere is wonderfully eerie, with the luxury holiday home hiding a dark past and the feeling that someone is always watching. I really felt for the main character as she risked everything to uncover the truth about her sister’s death. Every chapter revealed another clue, making me question who could be trusted.
The ending was satisfying and full of surprises, tying everything together in a way I didn’t see coming.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers with family secrets, small town mysteries, and unexpected twists, I highly recommend this book. A compelling page turner that will keep you hooked until the last page.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: The Glass House
Author: Victoria Jenkins
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: July 22, 2026
I had previously given one of the author's books a 5🌟 rating, and I rarely rate a book that high, so I definitely had high hopes for her newest novel.
The Prologue did exactly what is was meant to do; it drew me in! The way the author describes the setting paints atmospheric tension that you couldn't cut with a sharp knife!
There was a slight "supernatural" feel to this book, which I typically can't stand. I almost threw in the towel a few times, but I didn't want to be a quitter!
There were several times when I thought I had it all figured out, but then there were times when I was just down right confused!! I was close to guessing the outcome correctly, but not close enough.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: Victoria Jenkins
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: July 22, 2026
I had previously given one of the author's books a 5🌟 rating, and I rarely rate a book that high, so I definitely had high hopes for her newest novel.
The Prologue did exactly what is was meant to do; it drew me in! The way the author describes the setting paints atmospheric tension that you couldn't cut with a sharp knife!
There was a slight "supernatural" feel to this book, which I typically can't stand. I almost threw in the towel a few times, but I didn't want to be a quitter!
There were several times when I thought I had it all figured out, but then there were times when I was just down right confused!! I was close to guessing the outcome correctly, but not close enough.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
July 22, 2026
Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for this ARC.
The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins started off as a slow burn, I honestly nearly gave up but I am so glad that I didn't. It picked up around the 30% mark, and it really got me reading. The story is about Jessica who returns to her old town to discover what really happened that night her older sister was murdered and whether the right person was behind bars after something her mother said at her deathbed.
I really enjoyed the setting and how the story built up to a twist that did not disappoint and then when I thought that was it there was another twist. All the loose ends were answered at the end which left me satisfied. I have been thinking about it for a few hours now that I have finished it.
It was my second book by Victoria Jenkins, and I am really loving her books so far.
The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins started off as a slow burn, I honestly nearly gave up but I am so glad that I didn't. It picked up around the 30% mark, and it really got me reading. The story is about Jessica who returns to her old town to discover what really happened that night her older sister was murdered and whether the right person was behind bars after something her mother said at her deathbed.
I really enjoyed the setting and how the story built up to a twist that did not disappoint and then when I thought that was it there was another twist. All the loose ends were answered at the end which left me satisfied. I have been thinking about it for a few hours now that I have finished it.
It was my second book by Victoria Jenkins, and I am really loving her books so far.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a little slow for me.
It is suspenseful, tense and atmospheric.
I found it creepy that someone unknown was prowling around the house when Jessica wasn't home.
There were quite a few twists, and I had a dozen suspects and no motive.
I even suspected the final reveal, and thought 'nah - too obvious'.
Victoria Jenkins writes a good psychological thriller, and this is good, but not my favourite book of hers. Like I say, it is a slow burn, and turned out to be a little predictable.
There are quite a lot of characters to keep track of, and also the characters are all intertwined in some way.
Fans of V. Jenkins will love this book.
I award 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
It is suspenseful, tense and atmospheric.
I found it creepy that someone unknown was prowling around the house when Jessica wasn't home.
There were quite a few twists, and I had a dozen suspects and no motive.
I even suspected the final reveal, and thought 'nah - too obvious'.
Victoria Jenkins writes a good psychological thriller, and this is good, but not my favourite book of hers. Like I say, it is a slow burn, and turned out to be a little predictable.
There are quite a lot of characters to keep track of, and also the characters are all intertwined in some way.
Fans of V. Jenkins will love this book.
I award 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Glass House by Victoria Jenkins completely kept me on my toes! The story follows Jessica as she tries to uncover the truth behind her sister’s murder, and just when I thought I had everything figured out, another twist would send me in a completely different direction.
This was such a creepy, atmospheric thriller that had me questioning everyone and everything. I suspected just about every character at some point, and I still didn’t see the final reveal coming. Victoria Jenkins did a fantastic job of building suspense and keeping the mystery alive right up until the very end.
If you love twisty psychological thrillers packed with secrets, suspense, and plenty of red herrings, definitely add this one to your TBR!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
This was such a creepy, atmospheric thriller that had me questioning everyone and everything. I suspected just about every character at some point, and I still didn’t see the final reveal coming. Victoria Jenkins did a fantastic job of building suspense and keeping the mystery alive right up until the very end.
If you love twisty psychological thrillers packed with secrets, suspense, and plenty of red herrings, definitely add this one to your TBR!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
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