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The Perfect Life
The woman who has it all
Heather has lucked out. She has a beautiful house, a happy marriage to James Jessop, with two sons, Ben and Harry — and she’s just won the lottery. £29 million!
The loyal best friend
Natalie has never quite kept up, but she’s finally in a relationship with a new boyfriend, Nick. She’s been best friends with Heather since they were bullied at school. But will her friend’s new fortune change their friendship?
A dream come true turns into a paranoid nightmare
The Jessops’ comfortable life dissolves into chaos. Heather starts receiving anonymous, hateful messages. She begs Natalie to escape with her to Spain, along with a few other close friends. But away from the spotlight in London, things go from bad to worse. Then the unthinkable happens and Heather realizes she can’t trust anyone. Not even her best friend.
Nothing will ever be the same again
Charged with menace, this unputdownable, edgy story of jealousy and suspicion by critically acclaimed author Susanna Beard redefines the depths of the psychological thriller.
Heather has lucked out. She has a beautiful house, a happy marriage to James Jessop, with two sons, Ben and Harry — and she’s just won the lottery. £29 million!
The loyal best friend
Natalie has never quite kept up, but she’s finally in a relationship with a new boyfriend, Nick. She’s been best friends with Heather since they were bullied at school. But will her friend’s new fortune change their friendship?
A dream come true turns into a paranoid nightmare
The Jessops’ comfortable life dissolves into chaos. Heather starts receiving anonymous, hateful messages. She begs Natalie to escape with her to Spain, along with a few other close friends. But away from the spotlight in London, things go from bad to worse. Then the unthinkable happens and Heather realizes she can’t trust anyone. Not even her best friend.
Nothing will ever be the same again
Charged with menace, this unputdownable, edgy story of jealousy and suspicion by critically acclaimed author Susanna Beard redefines the depths of the psychological thriller.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2020
1634 people are currently reading
469 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
February 9, 2021
I like Heather and her family, I like the plot, but I couldn't feel the thriller part. It was more of drama, suspense, not thriller. Heather just win a lot of money, and they decide to help everyone close. And then, her son is abducted, he is found, and that's all, everyone is happy. No action, nothing.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
December 21, 2020
The Perfect Life is the latest psychological thriller from critically-acclaimed writer Susanna Beard and is a novel full of strong female characters and explores revenge, greed, truth, trust, jealousy, anger, the saying 'money is the root of all evil', and the powerful yet breakable bonds of friendship. It’s Wednesday morning and Heather Jessop drives her Range Rover to do the weekly shop at the Tesco on Talgarth Road. She and her husband James, a self-employed financial advisor, live in Shepherd's Bush, West London with their two boys - Ben and younger son Harry. She stops off to treat herself to a magazine and chocolate bar but decides on a whim to purchase her first ever lottery ticket given that it's a rollover and she could potentially scoop a cool 29 million. The next day she checks it and is astonished when all the numbers match perfectly. She and James, excited and nervous, run all the way back to the newsagents on Goldhawk Road. He provides the telephone number for them to claim their prize and the rest, as they say, is history. That is until Heather receives a strange text message "Hi Heather, We’re having a few people for dinner Saturday night — would you two like to join us? Nothing formal, just a relaxed evening. From 8.00. We’d love to see you! Victoria and Andrew x" but Heather is filled full of suspicion.
She doesn't understand why she would get invited to their luxurious Hammersmith home completely out of the blue. They'd only spoken once before briefly and Heather has only given 2 people her mobile number. She then begins to receive countless friend requests, text messages and missed calls mostly from those she's never heard of before. It's quite terrifying to her and she feels she should call Graham Fuller an advisor from the lottery company who has likely dealt with all of this hysteria before with complete strangers crawling out of the woodwork. She begins to receive abusive and fear-inducing messages such as "Rich bitch. You think you’re so special." But husband James tells her she's being overdramatic. Over time the messages and harassment escalate and they decide to leave London and escape to Zahara de los Atunes on the Spanish Costa de la Luz in the hopes that a longish stay will stop the trolling, hate and harassment. This is a compulsive, captivating and deeply disturbing story about the way people change when money becomes involved. There's definitely a legitimate reason as to why people don't want their huge win publicised and this story perfectly illustrates that. I was gripped throughout and the paciness, twists and tension were all on point. Highly recommended.
She doesn't understand why she would get invited to their luxurious Hammersmith home completely out of the blue. They'd only spoken once before briefly and Heather has only given 2 people her mobile number. She then begins to receive countless friend requests, text messages and missed calls mostly from those she's never heard of before. It's quite terrifying to her and she feels she should call Graham Fuller an advisor from the lottery company who has likely dealt with all of this hysteria before with complete strangers crawling out of the woodwork. She begins to receive abusive and fear-inducing messages such as "Rich bitch. You think you’re so special." But husband James tells her she's being overdramatic. Over time the messages and harassment escalate and they decide to leave London and escape to Zahara de los Atunes on the Spanish Costa de la Luz in the hopes that a longish stay will stop the trolling, hate and harassment. This is a compulsive, captivating and deeply disturbing story about the way people change when money becomes involved. There's definitely a legitimate reason as to why people don't want their huge win publicised and this story perfectly illustrates that. I was gripped throughout and the paciness, twists and tension were all on point. Highly recommended.
December 21, 2020
Heather is a lucky woman. She's married to a great guy, has two young sons, a beautiful house .... and she's just won the lottery. A lot of money!
When she and her husband start getting bombarded with threatening messages, people begging for money, they decide to take a couple of months away from the fray. Inviting her best friend, Natalie and Natalie's new boyfriend, her sister-in-law and her husband, a couple of good friends to go with them, Heather and James decide they will share their lottery giving each of them something that will help their lives.
Natalie, along with Heather, was bullied while in school. She's never had much, and earning enough money to keep a roof over her head has been worrisome. Heather already has some plans she wants to make with Natalie. The sister-in-law- is one of those who wants to know what you gets .. who gets the most ... etc.
Heather and James have asked that none of them speak out about what they made in the lottery .... but the inevitable happens.
Someone has abducted Heather's youngest son ... and there's a ransom to be paid. She strongly suspects that one of her friends or family is the culprit....
The author has done a terrific job in character development. Jealousy and envy play a large part of what makes some of these people the way they are. I liked the backstories of Heather and Natalie .. how opposites do attract .. but at what cost? It's a thought-provoking look at how money can change your life ... and everyone around you. There's a few twists and turns along the way that lead to a very surprising conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Books n All Promotions / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
March 5, 2021
This was interesting, easy to read and over quickly. But it didn’t grab me as much as I wanted. I was sick of Heather moaning about her millions throughout the first half and didn’t get the point of Natalie as a second POV. Still don’t. The second half was much faster paced and was worthy of 3 stars.
January 18, 2021
The Perfect Life
by Susanna Beard is packed full of drama and excitement.
Heather Jessop is happily married to James, and they have two sons, Ben and Harry. She also has a beautiful house in Shepherd's Bush, West London and she’s just won £29 million on the lottery! When Heather receives a text invitation to dinner at the home of Victoria and Andrew who live in Hammersmith she is suspicious as she barely knows the couple. Anonymous texts follow which become increasingly unpleasant and although James thinks that Heather's reactions are OTT, the Jessops decide to temporarily escape to Spain.
In The Perfect Life, the author has drawn some strong characters and envy and jealousy are prominent topics throughout this compelling story. Told from Heather's perspective, interspersed with chapters from her best friend Natalie and the viewpoint of another person, the story was engaging and Susanna Beard's narrative was vivid and realistic.
This very appealing, thought-provoking story was chockablock with drama, and I was kept guessing as to the outcome. I'm so pleased I chose to read The Perfect Life. Highly recommended.😊
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Joffe Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Heather Jessop is happily married to James, and they have two sons, Ben and Harry. She also has a beautiful house in Shepherd's Bush, West London and she’s just won £29 million on the lottery! When Heather receives a text invitation to dinner at the home of Victoria and Andrew who live in Hammersmith she is suspicious as she barely knows the couple. Anonymous texts follow which become increasingly unpleasant and although James thinks that Heather's reactions are OTT, the Jessops decide to temporarily escape to Spain.
In The Perfect Life, the author has drawn some strong characters and envy and jealousy are prominent topics throughout this compelling story. Told from Heather's perspective, interspersed with chapters from her best friend Natalie and the viewpoint of another person, the story was engaging and Susanna Beard's narrative was vivid and realistic.
This very appealing, thought-provoking story was chockablock with drama, and I was kept guessing as to the outcome. I'm so pleased I chose to read The Perfect Life. Highly recommended.😊
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Joffe Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 19, 2021
This book was a bit of a slow burn, more like a poolside read than a thrilling mystery. It centers on Heather, who is happily married with 2 teenage boys when she makes a snap decision to buy a lottery ticket and wins 29M pounds. She has never cared about money and finds this more stressful than exciting. She and her family plan on spending the summer in Spain with their families and a couple of close friends to allow the dust to settle as well as determine what they are going to do with the money. While the synopsis makes the story look like it's all about Heather and her best friend Natalie, Natalie was only one of many tertiary characters in the book.
The first part of the book felt slow, where the reader learns more about Heather and about all the different players in the book. There is some jealousy and envy, as well as little personality nits between Heather and the other characters. There are also a couple of threatening messages, but this fees like a very small part of the storyline over the first half of the book. I got a little tired of Heather complaining about the money all the time.
The pace picks up in the last half of the book, where Heather and her family are in a race against the clock to save themselves from a situation that appears to be fallout from word having got out about the money. I was suspicious of a lot of the characters during this part of the book, and it kept me guessing. When all was revealed, I had guessed one part of the mystery but the other was somewhat of a surprise. The ending tied up the loose ends nicely.
All in all, I thought this was a decent read but didn't really keep me on the edge of my seat. I did like the way the author tied it all together at the end, and gave us just enough characterization of the many characters to make us suspicious, and make it all make sense in the long run. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The first part of the book felt slow, where the reader learns more about Heather and about all the different players in the book. There is some jealousy and envy, as well as little personality nits between Heather and the other characters. There are also a couple of threatening messages, but this fees like a very small part of the storyline over the first half of the book. I got a little tired of Heather complaining about the money all the time.
The pace picks up in the last half of the book, where Heather and her family are in a race against the clock to save themselves from a situation that appears to be fallout from word having got out about the money. I was suspicious of a lot of the characters during this part of the book, and it kept me guessing. When all was revealed, I had guessed one part of the mystery but the other was somewhat of a surprise. The ending tied up the loose ends nicely.
All in all, I thought this was a decent read but didn't really keep me on the edge of my seat. I did like the way the author tied it all together at the end, and gave us just enough characterization of the many characters to make us suspicious, and make it all make sense in the long run. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2021
The cover says “a totally compelling psychological thriller with an electrifying finish” which I thought was quite misleading. I thought the story slow and I was extremely unimpressed. The plot twist was predictable; I was not surprised in the least. I desperately wanted to DNF this book, however I stuck it out and finished because I was really hoping for that “electrifying finish” that was promised, but it just never came. The climax, plot twist, and resolution were summed up rather quickly to which I sat the frustrated and thought to myself, “I read this entire book for THIS?”
All the characters were flat. The main character, Heather, whined about absolutely everything. She won 29 million pounds, and every single chapter is her complaining, whining and crying. Now I know money doesn’t solve everything, but you’d think she would be a little happy that came into money. It was stated that Heather did actually develop by the last paragraph (overcoming her eating disorder), but there was no visible growth for the reader to see. How disappointing.
As for the other characters, wow what terrible people. My goodness they were so rude and entitled. Again, not one showed any growth.
1.5 star, there were some pleasant descriptions that made me feel like I was on vacation.
Trigger warnings: eating disorder, anxiety, abuse, abduction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this ARC in return for an honest review.
All the characters were flat. The main character, Heather, whined about absolutely everything. She won 29 million pounds, and every single chapter is her complaining, whining and crying. Now I know money doesn’t solve everything, but you’d think she would be a little happy that came into money. It was stated that Heather did actually develop by the last paragraph (overcoming her eating disorder), but there was no visible growth for the reader to see. How disappointing.
As for the other characters, wow what terrible people. My goodness they were so rude and entitled. Again, not one showed any growth.
1.5 star, there were some pleasant descriptions that made me feel like I was on vacation.
Trigger warnings: eating disorder, anxiety, abuse, abduction.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this ARC in return for an honest review.
December 18, 2020
This is a perfect book to read whilst lazing in the sun, next to a pool with a glass of wine or two. A good, well written book with a different than normal storyline, making a relaxing change from the usual physiological thrillers and murder mysteries.Thanks to Joffe Books and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
December 25, 2020
How does it feel to win the lottery when you’re just an ordinary woman, happy with your life as it is?
What would you do with all the money, who and how much would you share it with?
How would you know who your friends are and who just likes you for the wealth?
These are the questions Heather is about to answer ...
This was an easy read, which would be nice to read on the beach. The beginning was really interesting, the story also raised some good questions on how it would really be to win the lottery and what can be the downside of such an event. It’s not a typical thriller read, the twist comes quite late and everything is quickly revealed. It has some really nice thoughts about life and friendship.
I would recommend this book to all those, who enjoy hypothetical questions on what would be if ...
What would you do with all the money, who and how much would you share it with?
How would you know who your friends are and who just likes you for the wealth?
These are the questions Heather is about to answer ...
This was an easy read, which would be nice to read on the beach. The beginning was really interesting, the story also raised some good questions on how it would really be to win the lottery and what can be the downside of such an event. It’s not a typical thriller read, the twist comes quite late and everything is quickly revealed. It has some really nice thoughts about life and friendship.
I would recommend this book to all those, who enjoy hypothetical questions on what would be if ...
March 6, 2021
Just Awful
The whole book is based on a dream scenario of winning millions on the lottery but not enjoying it. Will your friends turn on you? The most unbelievable thing happens, even more unbelievable they solve it, then most unbelievable of all, the culprit emails them a full confession and explanation!
The characters aren't likeable, or believable and there many mistakes throughout the bokk.
One character apparently had been left money by her beloved father, however , later we find out that she was adopted as a young child and grew up in a series of foster homes and this father is never mentioned. ??
The whole book is based on a dream scenario of winning millions on the lottery but not enjoying it. Will your friends turn on you? The most unbelievable thing happens, even more unbelievable they solve it, then most unbelievable of all, the culprit emails them a full confession and explanation!
The characters aren't likeable, or believable and there many mistakes throughout the bokk.
One character apparently had been left money by her beloved father, however , later we find out that she was adopted as a young child and grew up in a series of foster homes and this father is never mentioned. ??
December 19, 2020
Psychological thriller to keep you on your toes.
Hammersmith Shepherds Bush.
Heather and James Jessop are invited to a saturday night dinner with Victoria and Andrew their sons are friends, but how did Victoria get her number? they had only met the once this leaves her with a stirring of panic, she had to be very careful after their Lottery win that is a well kept secret so far between her and James and two sons Ben and Harry, obviously Ben has been talking, then the string of texts start to arrive from unknown people its no longer a secret and james now wants to decide what they are going to do with it all. Changes are now about to happen to their lives people kill for a lot less, there is not such thing as a perfect life.
WOW what can I say, loved this book right through that will blow your mind, with unearthed secrets coming to surface. brilliant book and I really enjoyed the whole lot. thank you to Joffe Publishers and Netgalley for this read and a new author for me.
Hammersmith Shepherds Bush.
Heather and James Jessop are invited to a saturday night dinner with Victoria and Andrew their sons are friends, but how did Victoria get her number? they had only met the once this leaves her with a stirring of panic, she had to be very careful after their Lottery win that is a well kept secret so far between her and James and two sons Ben and Harry, obviously Ben has been talking, then the string of texts start to arrive from unknown people its no longer a secret and james now wants to decide what they are going to do with it all. Changes are now about to happen to their lives people kill for a lot less, there is not such thing as a perfect life.
WOW what can I say, loved this book right through that will blow your mind, with unearthed secrets coming to surface. brilliant book and I really enjoyed the whole lot. thank you to Joffe Publishers and Netgalley for this read and a new author for me.
January 27, 2021
This one will have your head in a spin - gripping to the very last!
Heather loves her family; they have a good life thanks to her hardworking husband, James, allowing her to be a stay at home mum caring for their two teenage boys. Then, on a whim, she buys a lottery ticket and hits the jackpot! Determined to keep it quiet, they keep the news close, trusting only a few but someone, somewhere has blabbed as Heather starts to receive nasty, threatening text messages. Deciding to get away from it all for the summer, the family head to Spain, inviting only their nearest and dearest - but then the worst happens and they are plunged into a nightmare situation.
Most of us dream of winning the lottery at some point or other, but be careful what you wish for! Would you go public or keep it to yourselves? This must go through every reader's mind as this story progresses. The author has carefully planned out this one; it's a fascinating read and one with a huge learning curve for Heather, James and anyone lucky enough to have their numbers come up! I really empathised with Heather as she was definitely more of a worrier than her husband. When it came to the dirty deed, I mentally worked my way through all the potential suspects and still managed to get it wrong! An excellent read which gave my brain a bit or a workout with both highs and lows. This is my first novel by Susanna Beard and I'm delighted to have another waiting on my list for the future. Recommended, and well worth 4.5*.
Heather loves her family; they have a good life thanks to her hardworking husband, James, allowing her to be a stay at home mum caring for their two teenage boys. Then, on a whim, she buys a lottery ticket and hits the jackpot! Determined to keep it quiet, they keep the news close, trusting only a few but someone, somewhere has blabbed as Heather starts to receive nasty, threatening text messages. Deciding to get away from it all for the summer, the family head to Spain, inviting only their nearest and dearest - but then the worst happens and they are plunged into a nightmare situation.
Most of us dream of winning the lottery at some point or other, but be careful what you wish for! Would you go public or keep it to yourselves? This must go through every reader's mind as this story progresses. The author has carefully planned out this one; it's a fascinating read and one with a huge learning curve for Heather, James and anyone lucky enough to have their numbers come up! I really empathised with Heather as she was definitely more of a worrier than her husband. When it came to the dirty deed, I mentally worked my way through all the potential suspects and still managed to get it wrong! An excellent read which gave my brain a bit or a workout with both highs and lows. This is my first novel by Susanna Beard and I'm delighted to have another waiting on my list for the future. Recommended, and well worth 4.5*.
December 19, 2020
Good read! There were a few moments where the story dragged, and Heather occasionally gave me a pain (as did Natalie, but more so). I grew to quite like the boys - sensible lads both, and while I did wonder about the (double) twist coming fairly early on, it wasn't an issue.
I especially liked the thread of ethical values - what would you do with the money, how would it colour your thinking, change the way you see others and behave towards them? Heather and James are down to earth good people, and they really do try to please everyone (not always a good thing, as they are about to discover.) Who can you trust - the friendly neighbor you've known for years, the best friend you went to school with, her new boyfriend, a shady antique dealer with a few linguistic tricks up his sleeve? All of them, none of them?
Well, guess you'll have to wait and see. I will definitely be checking out more of this particular author's books. Many thanks to Net Galley, Susanna Beard, and Joffe Books for my ARC.
I especially liked the thread of ethical values - what would you do with the money, how would it colour your thinking, change the way you see others and behave towards them? Heather and James are down to earth good people, and they really do try to please everyone (not always a good thing, as they are about to discover.) Who can you trust - the friendly neighbor you've known for years, the best friend you went to school with, her new boyfriend, a shady antique dealer with a few linguistic tricks up his sleeve? All of them, none of them?
Well, guess you'll have to wait and see. I will definitely be checking out more of this particular author's books. Many thanks to Net Galley, Susanna Beard, and Joffe Books for my ARC.
December 20, 2020
Looking for a thriller, this isn't it although a somewhat interesting take on the effect money can have on people. I really couldn't relate to the main character and her reaction to winning the lottery - she had a good life, good marriage, volunteered, but instead of seeing the money as a windfall to continue helping, her reaction didn't make sense to me at all - and her so-called best friend and relatives were all extremes. The main character and her husband were supposedly intelligent, but made every stupid mistake possible and the main character was so irrational I couldn't believe her husband even stayed with her. Still wondering what the "electrifying finish" was supposed to be from the description - nothing electrifying here.
January 7, 2021
The Perfect Life follows a family who have recently won the lottery and the fallout of how this sudden influx of wealth affects their lives, culminating in a crisis that makes the mother wish she had never bought the ticket.
I would recommend this read to those who like slower, internalised character explorations with gradually increasing levels of anxiety rather than to people who prefer high action thrillers. Unfortunately, I find myself in the latter category so this book was not quite for me.
The overall plot was enjoyable and followed a satisfying arc, however, I do feel that certain strange choices were made. The narrative is split between mostly third person from the mother's perspective with occasional first person input from the mother's best friend plus another mystery figure. Having finished the book, I'm not sure what the purpose of the best friend's perspective was. However, the mystery perspective was well woven into the plot and I really enjoyed the reveal - I had guessed close to the truth but not dead on, and I think this is what the author intended.
Overall, this more gentle thriller scores three stars from me, but would likely score higher for someone who fits the description at the start of this review.
Content warnings for bulimia and bullying.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I would recommend this read to those who like slower, internalised character explorations with gradually increasing levels of anxiety rather than to people who prefer high action thrillers. Unfortunately, I find myself in the latter category so this book was not quite for me.
The overall plot was enjoyable and followed a satisfying arc, however, I do feel that certain strange choices were made. The narrative is split between mostly third person from the mother's perspective with occasional first person input from the mother's best friend plus another mystery figure. Having finished the book, I'm not sure what the purpose of the best friend's perspective was. However, the mystery perspective was well woven into the plot and I really enjoyed the reveal - I had guessed close to the truth but not dead on, and I think this is what the author intended.
Overall, this more gentle thriller scores three stars from me, but would likely score higher for someone who fits the description at the start of this review.
Content warnings for bulimia and bullying.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 22, 2020
Heather is carrying on with her normal life and pops to the shop to get some food and while she is there she buys a lottery ticket on a whim. When she realises she has the rollover jackpot winning numbers it slowly sinks in that her 'normal' life is over.
Attempts to keep the news to the people who need to know are unsuccessful and then Heather starts getting hateful text messages. Forced to move out of their home the family settle down to try and work out what their new life will look like.
This is an interesting story detailing a realistic struggle to deal with the change brought about by suddenly becoming multi-millionaires and the realisation that life as they knew it will never return. In addition they have to cope with jealousy and the other human traits that a large amount of money brings to the forefront.
Attempts to keep the news to the people who need to know are unsuccessful and then Heather starts getting hateful text messages. Forced to move out of their home the family settle down to try and work out what their new life will look like.
This is an interesting story detailing a realistic struggle to deal with the change brought about by suddenly becoming multi-millionaires and the realisation that life as they knew it will never return. In addition they have to cope with jealousy and the other human traits that a large amount of money brings to the forefront.
November 18, 2021
Un libro equivalente a una película de domingo por la tarde. Durante ciento y pico páginas no pasa nada relevante, o casi doscientas de 299 que tiene el libro, pero aún así te pide que lo sigas leyendo. En mi caso fue porque la publicidad decía que tenía un final inesperado. Mentira. El plot twist es, si no previsible, anticlimático.
Dicho esto, es un libro sencillo, con personajes arquetípicos, fácil y sencillo de leer, lo que lo hace ameno y entretenido. No es una pérdida de tiempo, al menos.
Dicho esto, es un libro sencillo, con personajes arquetípicos, fácil y sencillo de leer, lo que lo hace ameno y entretenido. No es una pérdida de tiempo, al menos.
April 10, 2021
Interesting storyline. Makes you wonder what happens when you win a mega millions lottery. Will your relationships change & do you really know your friends & family as well as you think you do? With a surprise twist, the book was enjoyable
January 1, 2021
3.5 stars
It was the premise that hooked me into wanting to read this one.
Heather has a reasonably good life, and on a whim buys a lottery ticket for the first time in her life. Unbelievably, she wins the massive jackpot first prize.
An interesting insight into both the positive and negative aspects that such a win can bring. This part of the novel was very well portrayed and I had a lot of empathy for Heather as she struggled with this life changing event.
My only criticism is that the thriller part of this novel didn't feel as tense as I felt it might, but I still enjoyed the read from beginning to end.
It was the premise that hooked me into wanting to read this one.
Heather has a reasonably good life, and on a whim buys a lottery ticket for the first time in her life. Unbelievably, she wins the massive jackpot first prize.
An interesting insight into both the positive and negative aspects that such a win can bring. This part of the novel was very well portrayed and I had a lot of empathy for Heather as she struggled with this life changing event.
My only criticism is that the thriller part of this novel didn't feel as tense as I felt it might, but I still enjoyed the read from beginning to end.
June 6, 2025
(Originally read/reviewed in 2021)
The first 80% of this book was enchanting; I loved the descriptions of their magical holiday, it's been hot and miserable here and reading the book helped me put the heat in perspective; late at night while reading this book, I felt like I was really there in this beautiful villa in Spain, watching the sun come up over the ocean.
The book does a remarkable job of building tension, and the protagonists' dual battles with mental illness and eating disorders were done well, with compassion and realism. It's so unusual to see a 50+ year old character struggling with her mental health (even with self-harm!) and still GREATLY suffering, many decades later, from the bullying they experienced in high school. So many people seem to forget that older people are still PEOPLE, your demons don't immediately go away just because you hit an arbitrary age. I'm 36 and still deal with severe depression, anxiety, and self-harm.
For those two elements, I can't help but give the book four stars.
But somewhere around the 80% mark, I started to feel that awful sinking sensation. That realization began to dawn. The realization that
The tension in the book
Is building
TO NOTHING.
The climax is honestly laughable; the major conflict of the book is resolved so easily and with so little fanfare, it's a major letdown. Suddenly, the characters themselves are charging to the rescue and the police are useless and it's all coming down to this, someone's life is at stake, hurry hurry hurry
Okay, all done. Even the CHARACTERS seem astonished by what a non-climax the book had.
Mostly, I'm annoyed because... what was even the use of the two narrators? I liked the originality of it; Heather's chapters are in the third person and have a different view from Natalie's, who are in the first person and full of red flags.
But then... what? Was Natalie involved in the perfidy of the diabolical villain?
Nnnnnot really? There's a little moment at the end where her behavior comes back to haunt her... kiiiiinda?
I stayed up until 5am to finish this and I wish I hadn't. If I had stopped just before the climax began, I'd remember this book as a wonderful breath of fresh air. But now I'm just unsatisfied.
The first 80% of this book was enchanting; I loved the descriptions of their magical holiday, it's been hot and miserable here and reading the book helped me put the heat in perspective; late at night while reading this book, I felt like I was really there in this beautiful villa in Spain, watching the sun come up over the ocean.
The book does a remarkable job of building tension, and the protagonists' dual battles with mental illness and eating disorders were done well, with compassion and realism. It's so unusual to see a 50+ year old character struggling with her mental health (even with self-harm!) and still GREATLY suffering, many decades later, from the bullying they experienced in high school. So many people seem to forget that older people are still PEOPLE, your demons don't immediately go away just because you hit an arbitrary age. I'm 36 and still deal with severe depression, anxiety, and self-harm.
For those two elements, I can't help but give the book four stars.
But somewhere around the 80% mark, I started to feel that awful sinking sensation. That realization began to dawn. The realization that
The tension in the book
Is building
TO NOTHING.
The climax is honestly laughable; the major conflict of the book is resolved so easily and with so little fanfare, it's a major letdown. Suddenly, the characters themselves are charging to the rescue and the police are useless and it's all coming down to this, someone's life is at stake, hurry hurry hurry
Okay, all done. Even the CHARACTERS seem astonished by what a non-climax the book had.
Mostly, I'm annoyed because... what was even the use of the two narrators? I liked the originality of it; Heather's chapters are in the third person and have a different view from Natalie's, who are in the first person and full of red flags.
But then... what? Was Natalie involved in the perfidy of the diabolical villain?
Nnnnnot really? There's a little moment at the end where her behavior comes back to haunt her... kiiiiinda?
I stayed up until 5am to finish this and I wish I hadn't. If I had stopped just before the climax began, I'd remember this book as a wonderful breath of fresh air. But now I'm just unsatisfied.
June 28, 2024
An enthralling tale
While not as wow as The Lost Brother, I still was hooked on and thoroughly enjoyed this well written book, It was finished in a day! It perfectly encaptured all the aspects of human nature and money - the stress of not enough or too much, the change of lifestyles, the generousness, the greed, the jealousness. But it also encaptured other aspects of human nature - friendship, fear, addiction, cruelty, selfishness, fear, thoughtlessness, healing. The characters had depth, the topics came to life and the twist was nicely done. A good read.
While not as wow as The Lost Brother, I still was hooked on and thoroughly enjoyed this well written book, It was finished in a day! It perfectly encaptured all the aspects of human nature and money - the stress of not enough or too much, the change of lifestyles, the generousness, the greed, the jealousness. But it also encaptured other aspects of human nature - friendship, fear, addiction, cruelty, selfishness, fear, thoughtlessness, healing. The characters had depth, the topics came to life and the twist was nicely done. A good read.
February 8, 2021
Really uninspiring
What a waste of energy reading this bookings as see through as a clean window
Don't wAste your time
Please
What a waste of energy reading this bookings as see through as a clean window
Don't wAste your time
Please
November 23, 2021
I didn't find this book to be a thriller, domestic suspense is more fitting. This book was a struggle for me. I wanted to enjoy it but Heather was just too much. Constant whining about the lottery was all I could think about. How can 1 person get so lucky and be so miserable?
January 28, 2021
Awful
I kept going thinking something has got to happen, but no! Dull, boring and totally uneventful. Don't bother, total wast of time.
I kept going thinking something has got to happen, but no! Dull, boring and totally uneventful. Don't bother, total wast of time.
December 22, 2020
I must admit that when I was invited to take part in the blog tour for ‘The Perfect Life’ I hadn’t actually read any of Susanna’s work before. So in that respect Susanna Beard is a new author for me and I love discovering new authors. I read the synopsis for ‘The Perfect Life’ and it certainly sounded like an intriguing story. So without further ado, I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my Kindle and settled down for a darn good reading session. I did enjoy reading ‘The Perfect Life’ but more about that in a bit.
I have to admit that the main character called ‘Heather’ really did get on my wick and I couldn’t take to her at all. There was something about her that set off little alarm bells for me and I felt myself wanting to slap her with a wet fish. Her personality grated a bit. She is living the dream in that she has a nice house, she has a nice family and she doesn’t have to worry about money again since she has just won the lottery. She just seems to be the doormat for her family and she runs around after them as if they are incapable of fending for themselves. Understandably she wants to keep her good fortune under wraps but the news starts leaking out and she ends up suspicious of everybody and everything. Money certainly seems to change her and the way in which she views things. Bearing all that in mind, I still found the story intriguing and I found it interesting to see how the story developed.
It took me a little while to get into this story, which has more to do with the fact that I was tired when I started to read the book and can’t be taken as a criticism of the author. One I got into the story that was it and I was away. I had my own theory as to what was going to happen and when and I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had the wrong end of the stick entirely. The pages turned increasingly quickly as I worked my way through the story. At one point the pages were turning that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. All too quickly I reached the end of the story.
‘The Perfect Life’ is well written. The author has chosen an interesting subject around which to build a story and she does it very well. I would say that the pace of the story is more of a slow burn type but that suits the story perfectly. The slow burn pace allows the tension to build and build resulting in a tense and dramatic conclusion. At times this story had me sitting on the edge of my seat and it certainly kept me guessing. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and that’s thanks to Susanna’s very vivid and realistic storytelling.
In short, I did enjoy reading ‘The Perfect Life’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Susanna’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very realistic 4* out of 5*.
I have to admit that the main character called ‘Heather’ really did get on my wick and I couldn’t take to her at all. There was something about her that set off little alarm bells for me and I felt myself wanting to slap her with a wet fish. Her personality grated a bit. She is living the dream in that she has a nice house, she has a nice family and she doesn’t have to worry about money again since she has just won the lottery. She just seems to be the doormat for her family and she runs around after them as if they are incapable of fending for themselves. Understandably she wants to keep her good fortune under wraps but the news starts leaking out and she ends up suspicious of everybody and everything. Money certainly seems to change her and the way in which she views things. Bearing all that in mind, I still found the story intriguing and I found it interesting to see how the story developed.
It took me a little while to get into this story, which has more to do with the fact that I was tired when I started to read the book and can’t be taken as a criticism of the author. One I got into the story that was it and I was away. I had my own theory as to what was going to happen and when and I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had the wrong end of the stick entirely. The pages turned increasingly quickly as I worked my way through the story. At one point the pages were turning that quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves. All too quickly I reached the end of the story.
‘The Perfect Life’ is well written. The author has chosen an interesting subject around which to build a story and she does it very well. I would say that the pace of the story is more of a slow burn type but that suits the story perfectly. The slow burn pace allows the tension to build and build resulting in a tense and dramatic conclusion. At times this story had me sitting on the edge of my seat and it certainly kept me guessing. I felt as though I was part of the story myself and that’s thanks to Susanna’s very vivid and realistic storytelling.
In short, I did enjoy reading ‘The Perfect Life’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Susanna’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very realistic 4* out of 5*.
December 23, 2020
A lottery win is most people's dream come true. But for Heather and her family it becomes a nightmare...
TRIGGER WARNING: This book contains references to bulimia
The Perfect Life sees Heather spontaneously buy a lottery ticket having never bought one before, and she wins £29 million! However, the pressure of keeping it a secret is unbearable and her good fortune stirs up deep rooted feelings of guilt. Heather and her family escape to Spain to plan their future but it becomes clear that someone is determined to make Heather suffer: who can she trust?
I thought the narrative style was interesting. Heather is the main character but we see her perspective through a third person viewpoint. Meanwhile, her best friend Natalie is given a first person view. A third perspective is also shown: a relationship at breaking point due to money worries.
The premise of the book, the lottery win, is a fantastic plot device and one that many of us have aspired to. But reality is often different as this book showcases. The many 'what ifs' faced by Heather demonstrates that sudden wealth can be a curse and even dangerous when others are desperate.
The mystery perspective creates a feeling of anticipation as we wait for the reveal. I found myself saddened by Heather's descent into bulimia as she struggles to cope with the pressure of the money. The more objective use of third person narative created a slight distance so that this subplot did not overwhelm the main events.
The Perfect Life is an enjoyable psychological thriller and most of us will identify with conflict faced by the main characters.
TRIGGER WARNING: This book contains references to bulimia
The Perfect Life sees Heather spontaneously buy a lottery ticket having never bought one before, and she wins £29 million! However, the pressure of keeping it a secret is unbearable and her good fortune stirs up deep rooted feelings of guilt. Heather and her family escape to Spain to plan their future but it becomes clear that someone is determined to make Heather suffer: who can she trust?
I thought the narrative style was interesting. Heather is the main character but we see her perspective through a third person viewpoint. Meanwhile, her best friend Natalie is given a first person view. A third perspective is also shown: a relationship at breaking point due to money worries.
The premise of the book, the lottery win, is a fantastic plot device and one that many of us have aspired to. But reality is often different as this book showcases. The many 'what ifs' faced by Heather demonstrates that sudden wealth can be a curse and even dangerous when others are desperate.
The mystery perspective creates a feeling of anticipation as we wait for the reveal. I found myself saddened by Heather's descent into bulimia as she struggles to cope with the pressure of the money. The more objective use of third person narative created a slight distance so that this subplot did not overwhelm the main events.
The Perfect Life is an enjoyable psychological thriller and most of us will identify with conflict faced by the main characters.
December 14, 2020
Heather and her husband and two children lead a fairly normal life. James works hard and they are able to send their children to a private school but only because Heather scrimps and saves on everything else- something that is now a habit for her. One day in the newsagents the man in front of her jokes about what he would do if he won the lottery and the shop owner tempts her to have a go. When she finds that she has won £29 million she is gobsmacked to say the very least. They decide to keep it quiet, not be put in the media etc and only tell one of two very close people. Very quickly Heather is getting emails and texts and offers as well as a rather disconcerting message or two. She grills the boys but doesnt think it has come from them. Heather has a secret - something her husband isn’t aware of- she is bulimic. A sensitive subject handled very well. For anyone not aware- bulimia is about being in control and self loathing, the book covers this well and with discretion and tact. When the money becomes more than a dream but a nightmare Heather wishes she had never had that little pink ticket as her family means far far more to her.
A wonderful inspiring read with a message and a smile. One to help restore faith in human nature.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter@nickisbookblog
December 21, 2020
Heather and her husband James have two sons, Ben and Harry. James works hard so Heather can stay home. One day when she stops at the corner store, she impulsively buys a lottery ticket. Later that day, she and James check the ticket and cannot believe that they have won 29 million pounds. They decide to share the news with their sons and instruct them to stay quiet about it. However, they soon are inundated with emails, phone calls, and social media messages asking them about it. But Heather has also told some friends and asked them to be quiet about it. But good news like this is hard for people to keep secret, so James decides they need to get away for a few days.
They end up renting a villa in Spain and invite some family and a few friends. Everyone is enjoying themselves and Heather and James get with each of them saying they will share some money.
As the days go blissfully by, a horrible thing happens to mar it all. Now, Heather wishes she had never won the lottery and all the money that came with it. Who is responsible for it?
I won’t give away the “it” I’m talking about because that would be a spoiler. This was a good mystery/thriller that I enjoyed. I can say that Heather is a bit of a wimp with her feelings that so many other people don’t have money and now they do. Somebody has to win, right? I also found her to be rather smug at times because her way is the right way. However, all in all, I gave the book 4 stars.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
They end up renting a villa in Spain and invite some family and a few friends. Everyone is enjoying themselves and Heather and James get with each of them saying they will share some money.
As the days go blissfully by, a horrible thing happens to mar it all. Now, Heather wishes she had never won the lottery and all the money that came with it. Who is responsible for it?
I won’t give away the “it” I’m talking about because that would be a spoiler. This was a good mystery/thriller that I enjoyed. I can say that Heather is a bit of a wimp with her feelings that so many other people don’t have money and now they do. Somebody has to win, right? I also found her to be rather smug at times because her way is the right way. However, all in all, I gave the book 4 stars.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 9, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, Susanna Beard, and Joffe Books for a copy of “The Perfect Life” which was released on December 21st!
Heather lives a normal life. She has a wonderful family with a loving husband and two sons. One day she randomly decides to buy a lottery ticket and ends up winning 29 million dollars (how nice would that be!?) Heather gets some anxiety about who to share the money with and about the public finding out. “People kill for a lot less.” The family and close friends head to a gorgeous villa in Spain to have some down time and decide what to do with the money. This is where Heather starts to receive anonymous threatening texts and things start to go terribly wrong.
Overall, I enjoyed the book! It was a bit of a slow burn and picked up near the end. I really like the concept of the book. I never thought how winning the lottery could come with its downsides, the feeling of being overwhelmed and seeing what some people would do for money but this book opened my eyes to that side! “The Perfect Life” has strong female characters and explores the themes of revenge, trust, greed, jealously and more. I would definitely recommend this read to any fans of psychological thrillers!
Heather lives a normal life. She has a wonderful family with a loving husband and two sons. One day she randomly decides to buy a lottery ticket and ends up winning 29 million dollars (how nice would that be!?) Heather gets some anxiety about who to share the money with and about the public finding out. “People kill for a lot less.” The family and close friends head to a gorgeous villa in Spain to have some down time and decide what to do with the money. This is where Heather starts to receive anonymous threatening texts and things start to go terribly wrong.
Overall, I enjoyed the book! It was a bit of a slow burn and picked up near the end. I really like the concept of the book. I never thought how winning the lottery could come with its downsides, the feeling of being overwhelmed and seeing what some people would do for money but this book opened my eyes to that side! “The Perfect Life” has strong female characters and explores the themes of revenge, trust, greed, jealously and more. I would definitely recommend this read to any fans of psychological thrillers!
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