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The Life She Wants
From behind the curtains, Sarah spotted the man coming out of the house, followed by the woman. It would be strange seeing people in the property. She wondered how much it would change their lives. For now, she would bide her time and hopefully get to know them better. She needed to gain their trust.
When I met Richard, I fell for him instantly. He was able to give me everything I had always wanted, the dream house, security and above all, love like I’d never known. We lived a quiet life in the middle of nowhere; we didn’t need anyone else.
So, when the empty house next door is sold, I am wary. Will our neighbours invade the perfect life Richard has built for us? As soon as I meet Juliette and Danny, I am reassured. Overwhelmed by grief after the death of their young daughter, they have moved in search of a quiet life and a chance to start again. Over dinner one evening, we hit it off instantly and I know they are just the neighbours we need.
All is well until Juliette spots a young girl in our garden. Richard convinces her that she is seeing things, that it’s the grief taking over. But Juliette won’t let it go. She is sure she saw a child. She believes that Richard is threatening her. She starts to think that I’m not safe.
I need to convince Juliette that she’s imagining it. I need to keep Richard happy. If I am to protect everything I have built for myself, she must never find out the truth.
That my perfect life is built on the deadliest lie.
A heart-stopping psychological thriller with a truly brilliant twist, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, T.M. Logan and K.L. Slater.
When I met Richard, I fell for him instantly. He was able to give me everything I had always wanted, the dream house, security and above all, love like I’d never known. We lived a quiet life in the middle of nowhere; we didn’t need anyone else.
So, when the empty house next door is sold, I am wary. Will our neighbours invade the perfect life Richard has built for us? As soon as I meet Juliette and Danny, I am reassured. Overwhelmed by grief after the death of their young daughter, they have moved in search of a quiet life and a chance to start again. Over dinner one evening, we hit it off instantly and I know they are just the neighbours we need.
All is well until Juliette spots a young girl in our garden. Richard convinces her that she is seeing things, that it’s the grief taking over. But Juliette won’t let it go. She is sure she saw a child. She believes that Richard is threatening her. She starts to think that I’m not safe.
I need to convince Juliette that she’s imagining it. I need to keep Richard happy. If I am to protect everything I have built for myself, she must never find out the truth.
That my perfect life is built on the deadliest lie.
A heart-stopping psychological thriller with a truly brilliant twist, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, T.M. Logan and K.L. Slater.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2021
517 people are currently reading
903 people want to read
About the author
Mel Sherratt
44 books532 followersI write police procedurals, psychological suspense and women's fiction with a punch - or grit-lit, as I call it.
I live in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, with my husband and terrier, Dexter (named after the TV serial killer) and makes liberal use of my hometown as a backdrop for some of my books.
You can find out more at my website www.melsherratt.co.uk or I'm on Twitter at @writermels
I also write women's fiction under the pen name of Marcie Steele.
I live in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, with my husband and terrier, Dexter (named after the TV serial killer) and makes liberal use of my hometown as a backdrop for some of my books.
You can find out more at my website www.melsherratt.co.uk or I'm on Twitter at @writermels
I also write women's fiction under the pen name of Marcie Steele.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
December 6, 2021
EXCERPT: We stand together in the silence of the night, in the clearing in the woods. Our breathing is the only thing I can hear.
We are as one, but only because we've agreed to cover up what's happened.
It wasn't supposed to end like this. When is killing someone ever a satisfactory solution? This was just a momentary lapse of concentration. A burst of anger. A fist of infuriation. Hands squeezing something they shouldn't have.
But now the body is buried. We've hidden the crime. If anyone finds out, we'll make up lies and pretend it never happened. No one will ever know the truth.
Because I won't let them find out.
ABOUT 'THE LIFE SHE WANTS': From behind the curtains, Sarah spotted the man coming out of the house, followed by the woman. It would be strange seeing people in the property. She wondered how much it would change their lives. For now, she would bide her time and hopefully get to know them better. She needed to gain their trust.
When I met Richard, I fell for him instantly. He was able to give me everything I had always wanted, the dream house, security and above all, love like I’d never known. We lived a quiet life in the middle of nowhere; we didn’t need anyone else.
So, when the empty house next door is sold, I am wary. Will our neighbours invade the perfect life Richard has built for us? As soon as I meet Juliette and Danny, I am reassured. Overwhelmed by grief after the death of their young daughter, they have moved in search of a quiet life and a chance to start again. Over dinner one evening, we hit it off instantly and I know they are just the neighbours we need.
All is well until Juliette spots a young girl in our garden. Richard convinces her that she is seeing things, that it’s the grief taking over. But Juliette won’t let it go. She is sure she saw a child. She believes that Richard is threatening her. She starts to think that I’m not safe.
I need to convince Juliette that she’s imagining it. I need to keep Richard happy. If I am to protect everything I have built for myself, she must never find out the truth.
That my perfect life is built on the deadliest lie.
MY THOUGHTS: This is a book that you really need to concentrate on as you read because it is not always obvious just whose point of view you are reading. There is also a fair bit of jumping about in the timeline, also not always apparent. I think that had I listened to the entire audiobook instead of reading the first 80% and listening to the last 20%, it may have been a little clearer. But, in the end, it all makes sense. It's just a little frustrating getting to that point.
Although The Life She Wants packs a punch, I didn't find it a particularly enjoyable experience. There are characters that I absolutely hated; sly, nasty and manipulative. They left a nasty taste in my mouth. I really found it difficult to connect with any of the characters other than Juliette and her husband. And I found the child totally unbelievable, although very little is seen and absolutely nothing heard from her. So very wrong on all levels.
The book reminds me a little in format of the old western movies, where you have the good guys and the bad guys. The good guys are really, really good, and the bad guys are really, really bad. There's a whole heap of tussling and wrangling and jostling for position going on, and the good guys appear to be coming off worst until the very end, when justice prevails, albeit usually with a few bodies strewn about along the way. But did justice prevail here? I'll let you make up your own mind.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheLifeSheWants #NetGalley
I: @mel_sherratt @bookouture
T: @writermels @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #mystery #psychologicalthriller
THE AUTHOR: write police procedurals, psychological suspense and women's fiction with a punch - or grit-lit, as I call it.
I live in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, with my husband and terrier, Dexter (named after the TV serial killer) and makes liberal use of my hometown as a backdrop for some of my books.
I also write women's fiction under the pen name of Marcie Steele.
DISCLOSURE:Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC and an audio ARC of The Life She Wants by Mel Sherratt and narrated by Emma Gregory, for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
We are as one, but only because we've agreed to cover up what's happened.
It wasn't supposed to end like this. When is killing someone ever a satisfactory solution? This was just a momentary lapse of concentration. A burst of anger. A fist of infuriation. Hands squeezing something they shouldn't have.
But now the body is buried. We've hidden the crime. If anyone finds out, we'll make up lies and pretend it never happened. No one will ever know the truth.
Because I won't let them find out.
ABOUT 'THE LIFE SHE WANTS': From behind the curtains, Sarah spotted the man coming out of the house, followed by the woman. It would be strange seeing people in the property. She wondered how much it would change their lives. For now, she would bide her time and hopefully get to know them better. She needed to gain their trust.
When I met Richard, I fell for him instantly. He was able to give me everything I had always wanted, the dream house, security and above all, love like I’d never known. We lived a quiet life in the middle of nowhere; we didn’t need anyone else.
So, when the empty house next door is sold, I am wary. Will our neighbours invade the perfect life Richard has built for us? As soon as I meet Juliette and Danny, I am reassured. Overwhelmed by grief after the death of their young daughter, they have moved in search of a quiet life and a chance to start again. Over dinner one evening, we hit it off instantly and I know they are just the neighbours we need.
All is well until Juliette spots a young girl in our garden. Richard convinces her that she is seeing things, that it’s the grief taking over. But Juliette won’t let it go. She is sure she saw a child. She believes that Richard is threatening her. She starts to think that I’m not safe.
I need to convince Juliette that she’s imagining it. I need to keep Richard happy. If I am to protect everything I have built for myself, she must never find out the truth.
That my perfect life is built on the deadliest lie.
MY THOUGHTS: This is a book that you really need to concentrate on as you read because it is not always obvious just whose point of view you are reading. There is also a fair bit of jumping about in the timeline, also not always apparent. I think that had I listened to the entire audiobook instead of reading the first 80% and listening to the last 20%, it may have been a little clearer. But, in the end, it all makes sense. It's just a little frustrating getting to that point.
Although The Life She Wants packs a punch, I didn't find it a particularly enjoyable experience. There are characters that I absolutely hated; sly, nasty and manipulative. They left a nasty taste in my mouth. I really found it difficult to connect with any of the characters other than Juliette and her husband. And I found the child totally unbelievable, although very little is seen and absolutely nothing heard from her. So very wrong on all levels.
The book reminds me a little in format of the old western movies, where you have the good guys and the bad guys. The good guys are really, really good, and the bad guys are really, really bad. There's a whole heap of tussling and wrangling and jostling for position going on, and the good guys appear to be coming off worst until the very end, when justice prevails, albeit usually with a few bodies strewn about along the way. But did justice prevail here? I'll let you make up your own mind.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheLifeSheWants #NetGalley
I: @mel_sherratt @bookouture
T: @writermels @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #mystery #psychologicalthriller
THE AUTHOR: write police procedurals, psychological suspense and women's fiction with a punch - or grit-lit, as I call it.
I live in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, with my husband and terrier, Dexter (named after the TV serial killer) and makes liberal use of my hometown as a backdrop for some of my books.
I also write women's fiction under the pen name of Marcie Steele.
DISCLOSURE:Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC and an audio ARC of The Life She Wants by Mel Sherratt and narrated by Emma Gregory, for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 28, 2021
3.5 stars
Sarah thought Richard would be the one to give her everything she had always wanted....
Sarah, didn't you ever hear the adage "Be Careful what you wish for"?
Living her "perfect" life, Sarah notices that the home next door has been sold. She and Richard are going to have neighbors, will they be fast friends, will they get along, or will they invade their perfect life.
Juliette and Danny are still reeling from the death of their young daughter, they have moved in search of a quieter life. Away from it all, a chance to grieve and have peace. When their new neighbors invite them to dinner, they feel lucky - their neighbors are nice. They have new friends....
When Juliette notices a young girl in garden, Richard ties to convince her that she is seeing things, that her grief over the loss of her daughter is messing with her head. But Juliette knows what she saw, she wasn't seeing things was she?
Sarah worries that her perfect life is about to be turned upside down....
You may think you know what is going on but the author changes things up a bit, and readers begin to learn truths as secrets are revealed. Things get murky and I found myself getting more and more annoyed with certain characters. There are a couple in here that were horrific and give readers a chance to boo and hiss at them while feeling sorry for another.
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narrator. This was a fun one for me as I kept shaking my head and thinking "how horrible" more than once.
This was a dark and twisted tale which entertained and had me quite angry at times.
Thank you to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Sarah thought Richard would be the one to give her everything she had always wanted....
Sarah, didn't you ever hear the adage "Be Careful what you wish for"?
Living her "perfect" life, Sarah notices that the home next door has been sold. She and Richard are going to have neighbors, will they be fast friends, will they get along, or will they invade their perfect life.
Juliette and Danny are still reeling from the death of their young daughter, they have moved in search of a quieter life. Away from it all, a chance to grieve and have peace. When their new neighbors invite them to dinner, they feel lucky - their neighbors are nice. They have new friends....
When Juliette notices a young girl in garden, Richard ties to convince her that she is seeing things, that her grief over the loss of her daughter is messing with her head. But Juliette knows what she saw, she wasn't seeing things was she?
Sarah worries that her perfect life is about to be turned upside down....
You may think you know what is going on but the author changes things up a bit, and readers begin to learn truths as secrets are revealed. Things get murky and I found myself getting more and more annoyed with certain characters. There are a couple in here that were horrific and give readers a chance to boo and hiss at them while feeling sorry for another.
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narrator. This was a fun one for me as I kept shaking my head and thinking "how horrible" more than once.
This was a dark and twisted tale which entertained and had me quite angry at times.
Thank you to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
December 15, 2021
I absolutely loved this book by the well known author Mel Sherratt.
I’ve moved away from “police” procedures this year and I’m so glad that this author has in this book too. It’s more thriller.
Juliette and Danny Move into a house for a fresh start. A kind of new beginning, they had lost their daughter and although she will always be a part of they’re hearts they just need to get away.
The couple next door to the house they move into are Sarah and Richard. You already are made aware of some oddity, secrets and the reader picks up on the fact there is something not quite right going on here, but, what?
I was engrossed within the pages of this story, thoroughly invested.
I’ve noticed some of my fellow book friends saying they found it difficult to follow and not knowing who was speaking, I didn’t find that at all. The chapters made me well aware which couple it was so that the reader could identify who was who. Getting to know each couple and each individual was easy to suss out, after all, Sarah was acting strange and Richard her husband was just a sour man trying to be “nice”, whereupon the other couple were just a regular non sinister couple, I thought.
I’m hoping the author stays writing like this as I’m a fan of this dark twisted tale.
I’ve moved away from “police” procedures this year and I’m so glad that this author has in this book too. It’s more thriller.
Juliette and Danny Move into a house for a fresh start. A kind of new beginning, they had lost their daughter and although she will always be a part of they’re hearts they just need to get away.
The couple next door to the house they move into are Sarah and Richard. You already are made aware of some oddity, secrets and the reader picks up on the fact there is something not quite right going on here, but, what?
I was engrossed within the pages of this story, thoroughly invested.
I’ve noticed some of my fellow book friends saying they found it difficult to follow and not knowing who was speaking, I didn’t find that at all. The chapters made me well aware which couple it was so that the reader could identify who was who. Getting to know each couple and each individual was easy to suss out, after all, Sarah was acting strange and Richard her husband was just a sour man trying to be “nice”, whereupon the other couple were just a regular non sinister couple, I thought.
I’m hoping the author stays writing like this as I’m a fan of this dark twisted tale.
November 27, 2021
This book pissed me off in more ways than one and I am still fuming while writing this review.
Danny and Juliette moved to the quiet town of Mapleton to start anew, after losing their daughter the year before. They met Sarah and Richard--the couple next door and everything seemed well. But there is something weird and unusual about the couple. What are they hiding?
Seriously, I felt bad for one of the characters in this story, she didn't deserve what happened to her. Sometimes, we think that we really know someone only to realise that they are not who they say they are and by then, it is too late. We're in too deep and it becomes so hard for us to leave because that person was able to manipulate and control us.
An easy read, a little bit slow and boring at times but tolerable. I'm not gonna be thinking about this book because it just made me so upset. It shows that the author's writing is very effective. It got me riled up. :/
Cheers to Netgalley and Bookouture for their generosity, as always.
Danny and Juliette moved to the quiet town of Mapleton to start anew, after losing their daughter the year before. They met Sarah and Richard--the couple next door and everything seemed well. But there is something weird and unusual about the couple. What are they hiding?
Seriously, I felt bad for one of the characters in this story, she didn't deserve what happened to her. Sometimes, we think that we really know someone only to realise that they are not who they say they are and by then, it is too late. We're in too deep and it becomes so hard for us to leave because that person was able to manipulate and control us.
An easy read, a little bit slow and boring at times but tolerable. I'm not gonna be thinking about this book because it just made me so upset. It shows that the author's writing is very effective. It got me riled up. :/
Cheers to Netgalley and Bookouture for their generosity, as always.
July 31, 2025
What a fabulous book!
October 9, 2021
Another exciting read from author Mel Sherratt. Some really interesting characters in this one, so well written and a very entertaining read.
Juliette and Danny move into a new home following the tragic death of their young daughter in an effort to make a fresh start and find happiness. Their neighbours Sarah and Richard appear to be friendly and all is well until Juliette is convinced she saw a young girl in her neighbours garden. Richard tells her that her grief is making her imagine things but Juliette is not so sure. She knows that she saw a child and wants to know more.
I found this a very good read from an author I have got to rely on. Interesting characters in this novel full of emotions and intrigue.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Juliette and Danny move into a new home following the tragic death of their young daughter in an effort to make a fresh start and find happiness. Their neighbours Sarah and Richard appear to be friendly and all is well until Juliette is convinced she saw a young girl in her neighbours garden. Richard tells her that her grief is making her imagine things but Juliette is not so sure. She knows that she saw a child and wants to know more.
I found this a very good read from an author I have got to rely on. Interesting characters in this novel full of emotions and intrigue.
I would like to thank both Net Galley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2021
From behind the curtains, Sarah spotted the man coming out of the house, followed by the woman. It would be strange seeing people in the property. She wondered how much it would change their lives. For now, she would bide her time and hopefully get to know them better. She needed to gain their trust.
You can't help but feel for Juliette and Danny who've just bought the house next door to Sarah and Richard. Sarah and Richard's part in this book had me intrigued. I needed to find out what it was all about. There's plenty of secrets and relationships that were complex. The story is told from Juliette's point of view and with a dual timeline. We also hear from an unknown narrator.
This story quickly pulled me in and didn't let me go until the end. There's lots of red herrings to put you off the trail. At first, I didn't know who I could trust. I really liked how the book ended, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #MelSherratt for my ARC of #TheLifeSheWants in exchange for an honest review.
You can't help but feel for Juliette and Danny who've just bought the house next door to Sarah and Richard. Sarah and Richard's part in this book had me intrigued. I needed to find out what it was all about. There's plenty of secrets and relationships that were complex. The story is told from Juliette's point of view and with a dual timeline. We also hear from an unknown narrator.
This story quickly pulled me in and didn't let me go until the end. There's lots of red herrings to put you off the trail. At first, I didn't know who I could trust. I really liked how the book ended, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #MelSherratt for my ARC of #TheLifeSheWants in exchange for an honest review.
January 26, 2022
THE LIFE SHE WANTS is a psychological thriller by bestselling author Mel Sherratt.
This emotional story follows Juliette and Danny, as they deal with the loss of their child. They move from London to the country for a fresh start, a new beginning to escape the memories of all the places they had been with their daughter.
When Juliette and Danny arrive at their new cottage, they meet their new neighbors, Sarah and Richard…who seem a bit strange…or seem to be hiding something.
Sarah and Richard lived a quiet life out in the middle of nowhere, and didn’t need anyone else invading their space. So, when the empty house next door was sold, Sarah was afraid that their new neighbors would disrupt the perfect life she had with Richard.
Over dinner one evening, the couples hit it off instantly and know they are just the friendly neighbors they need.
All is well until Juliette spots a young girl in Sarah and Richard’s Garden. Richard convinces Juliette that she is seeing things, that it’s the grief taking over. But Juliette won’t let it go. She is sure she saw a child. Juliette believes that Richard is threatening Sarah.
But Sarah knows that she must hide the truth from her neighbors, to keep Richard happy.
A heart-stopping psychological thriller with a truly brilliant twist. Interesting well-developed characters with lots of drama. The story is mostly told through flashbacks and present day though the POV of Juliette, Louisa, and Sarah.
Many thanks to the author and Bookouture and Net Galley for my digital copy.
This emotional story follows Juliette and Danny, as they deal with the loss of their child. They move from London to the country for a fresh start, a new beginning to escape the memories of all the places they had been with their daughter.
When Juliette and Danny arrive at their new cottage, they meet their new neighbors, Sarah and Richard…who seem a bit strange…or seem to be hiding something.
Sarah and Richard lived a quiet life out in the middle of nowhere, and didn’t need anyone else invading their space. So, when the empty house next door was sold, Sarah was afraid that their new neighbors would disrupt the perfect life she had with Richard.
Over dinner one evening, the couples hit it off instantly and know they are just the friendly neighbors they need.
All is well until Juliette spots a young girl in Sarah and Richard’s Garden. Richard convinces Juliette that she is seeing things, that it’s the grief taking over. But Juliette won’t let it go. She is sure she saw a child. Juliette believes that Richard is threatening Sarah.
But Sarah knows that she must hide the truth from her neighbors, to keep Richard happy.
A heart-stopping psychological thriller with a truly brilliant twist. Interesting well-developed characters with lots of drama. The story is mostly told through flashbacks and present day though the POV of Juliette, Louisa, and Sarah.
Many thanks to the author and Bookouture and Net Galley for my digital copy.
May 26, 2022
A heartfelt story that follows Juliette and Danny, as they grapple with the loss of their child. They move from London to the countryside to escape the haunting memory of all the places they had been with their daughter.
Armed with a sense of adventure and ready for a change they arrive at their new cottage in the countryside surrounded by lush green fields and old charm. However, they quickly find that their new neighbors are a bit off. The neighbours Sarah and Richard, seem to be hiding something but what and why remains a mystery.
The story is mostly told through the eyes of Juliette, Louisa, and Sarah weaving an intricate web of flashbacks and the present day. The characters are well developed and written in a way that you can feel their pain and wish for them to prevail. However, there seems to be something missing, an intimacy that felt just out of reach.
“He has his own mind. He didn’t have to take after his father” TheLife She Wants
The villain of the story had my blood boiling from start to finish, the portrayal of him being so good at being evil was infuriating. He made me root for Juliette, Sarah, and Louisa all the more.
While some thrilling moments got the heart racing, it struggled to hold me and pull me in. It felt that just as it was getting good the reader got transported to the past missing out on the action in the present.
The plot is well thought out all be it a little predictable towards the end, I still enjoyed the overall story and how it came together. One aspect of the story that was incredibly good and tugging at my heart strings was the depiction of family and how easy it is blame them for our circumstances. Family can be such a joy and saving grace and at the same time break us into a thousand pieces.
“You try and stop me, poppet. You’re family and we always look after our own” The Life She Wants
There are some great twists that the reader will find haunting which will intrigue them just enough to want to know what is to come.
Domestic abuse and tragic loss make up most of the story, wrapped in beautifully descriptive settings and healing emotions. An easy and enjoyable read for those that want a bit of a thrill but not too much.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Armed with a sense of adventure and ready for a change they arrive at their new cottage in the countryside surrounded by lush green fields and old charm. However, they quickly find that their new neighbors are a bit off. The neighbours Sarah and Richard, seem to be hiding something but what and why remains a mystery.
The story is mostly told through the eyes of Juliette, Louisa, and Sarah weaving an intricate web of flashbacks and the present day. The characters are well developed and written in a way that you can feel their pain and wish for them to prevail. However, there seems to be something missing, an intimacy that felt just out of reach.
“He has his own mind. He didn’t have to take after his father” TheLife She Wants
The villain of the story had my blood boiling from start to finish, the portrayal of him being so good at being evil was infuriating. He made me root for Juliette, Sarah, and Louisa all the more.
While some thrilling moments got the heart racing, it struggled to hold me and pull me in. It felt that just as it was getting good the reader got transported to the past missing out on the action in the present.
The plot is well thought out all be it a little predictable towards the end, I still enjoyed the overall story and how it came together. One aspect of the story that was incredibly good and tugging at my heart strings was the depiction of family and how easy it is blame them for our circumstances. Family can be such a joy and saving grace and at the same time break us into a thousand pieces.
“You try and stop me, poppet. You’re family and we always look after our own” The Life She Wants
There are some great twists that the reader will find haunting which will intrigue them just enough to want to know what is to come.
Domestic abuse and tragic loss make up most of the story, wrapped in beautifully descriptive settings and healing emotions. An easy and enjoyable read for those that want a bit of a thrill but not too much.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2021
Review coming soon.
May 5, 2022
Another cracker by Mel Sherratt. Her characters are so well fleshed out, you can imagine them living at the end of the street. A dark and twisty read that will keep you glued to the page.
December 16, 2022
I have loved Mel Sherratt's novels since first encountering the Estate series. From the Mitchell Estate, she has branched out into police procedurals, romance, and psychological suspense, but consistently her forte remains creating characters we care about. In this book the sisters Louisa and Sarah exemplify a common pattern in the genre of psychological suspense, the envious character who gets what she thinks she wants, only to find it anything but desirable. In this case, Louisa's husband Richard, who is indeed thoroughly odious. Another couple, Juliette and David, move in nearby in the village of Mapleton, and Juliette tries to befriend Sarah. Juliette was bereaved by the death of a young daughter, and when she thinks she sights a little girl in her neighbours' garden, Richard insists it must be an hallucination. In the midsection of the novel, the view shifts to the backstory of Louisa and Sarah, their alcoholic mother, and Louisa's marriage to Richard. Then in the final part we return to Juliette as she and David discover what their neighbours are concealing in a thriller ending. I enjoyed this story despite my low tolerance for domestic abuse and was satisfied with the ending, though some readers may not agree. But I'll hide my thoughts on that in the spoiler section of the Kindle British Mysteries Group.
January 10, 2022
I have read and enjoyed several of Mel Sherratt's police procedurals and I was happy to see that this one was a thriller, something different, but also well done. Juliette and Danny move into a house in the country looking for a fresh start after losing their young daughter. They need a place to heal. Juliette meets Sarah, the woman who lives next door. Sarah and Richard are a solitary couple and don't want anyone interfering with their lives. They aren't worried after a dinner with Juliette and Danny. But, something is wrong in that house. There are secrets they are trying to keep quiet. When Juliette sees a young girl in their garden and starts to ask questions, things begin to unravel.
This is a story you need to go into knowing only a bit, so I am not saying anything more about the plot. I will say that there are some very unlikable characters, as well as some I felt a lot of sympathy for. Secrets abound and are revealed throughout the story. The story is told from various points of view and at times I had to figure out who was speaking, but as the story progressed, it became easier. There was also two timelines, but again, as I got more into the story, I was able to figure out what was happening. The final twists did not come as a surprise, but I definitely enjoyed how the plotlines came together in the end. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Emma Gregory. This was my first encounter with this talented voice actress and I enjoyed her narration of the story. Using expression, tone and accents, she brought the characters to life for me. Overall, this was a very entertaining experience. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this audiobook upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
This is a story you need to go into knowing only a bit, so I am not saying anything more about the plot. I will say that there are some very unlikable characters, as well as some I felt a lot of sympathy for. Secrets abound and are revealed throughout the story. The story is told from various points of view and at times I had to figure out who was speaking, but as the story progressed, it became easier. There was also two timelines, but again, as I got more into the story, I was able to figure out what was happening. The final twists did not come as a surprise, but I definitely enjoyed how the plotlines came together in the end. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Emma Gregory. This was my first encounter with this talented voice actress and I enjoyed her narration of the story. Using expression, tone and accents, she brought the characters to life for me. Overall, this was a very entertaining experience. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this audiobook upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
November 5, 2021
After the death of their daughter Emily, Juliette and Danny decide to live the busy London and life and buy a cottage in the country. The village they move too is idyllic village and a far cry from their London life.
The meet their new neighbours Sarah and Richard an odd couple and Juliette can straight way sense that something is not right with the couple. They are both hiding something. She wants to find out that that is.
Thanks once again Bookoutre for a copy of the latest book from Mel Sherratt. This is slightly different from her other books but still a great thrilling read.
Set in two timelines, this is the story the charming Richard and how he coerced and manipulated Louise and Sarah and tortured them mentally to do his bidding. This has realistic storyline and was quite twisted at times which made me a bit squeamish and also wondering why Sarah was putting up with Richard and not just leave and get away from him. This is great read 4 stars from me.
The meet their new neighbours Sarah and Richard an odd couple and Juliette can straight way sense that something is not right with the couple. They are both hiding something. She wants to find out that that is.
Thanks once again Bookoutre for a copy of the latest book from Mel Sherratt. This is slightly different from her other books but still a great thrilling read.
Set in two timelines, this is the story the charming Richard and how he coerced and manipulated Louise and Sarah and tortured them mentally to do his bidding. This has realistic storyline and was quite twisted at times which made me a bit squeamish and also wondering why Sarah was putting up with Richard and not just leave and get away from him. This is great read 4 stars from me.
November 26, 2021
Firstly, fabulous cover. I have not read this author before although I had heard of her but the cover is what made me want to read this book.
Juliette and Danny lose a child and decide to make a break from where they are living in London and move to a cottage away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They meet their neighbor's Sarah and Richard and from the start they realize that something seems amiss with them. Richard is cruel and hard on Sarah and then after a conversation Sarah has with Juliette, Juliette decides she must help Sarah make a break.
I enjoyed the book, it was well written but I had hoped that there would have been more to the twists and turns. I guessed what would happen at the end which always leaves me feeling a little disappointed. I will read another book from this author as I would like to see what else she has to offer.
Juliette and Danny lose a child and decide to make a break from where they are living in London and move to a cottage away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They meet their neighbor's Sarah and Richard and from the start they realize that something seems amiss with them. Richard is cruel and hard on Sarah and then after a conversation Sarah has with Juliette, Juliette decides she must help Sarah make a break.
I enjoyed the book, it was well written but I had hoped that there would have been more to the twists and turns. I guessed what would happen at the end which always leaves me feeling a little disappointed. I will read another book from this author as I would like to see what else she has to offer.
November 29, 2021
Sarah and Richard look like a normal couple at first glance. However, it does not take long for new neighbors Juliette and Danny to realize that things are not quite right. From the outset, when the story is coming from Sarah and Richard's point of view, it is clear that Richard is extremely controlling. When they spot their new neighbors, they do the neighborly thing. They invite them over for dinner. As Juliette and Danny sit at their table, they immediately see how Richard is towards Sarah. What is more is that Richard seems like a closed book, so why invite them over in the first place?
Meanwhile, Juliette and Danny have a reason tor moving into their new home. They suffered a tragedy and are trying to make a new start in life. Juliette is glad to have met Sarah and hopes the two will become great friends. One day, Julliette is sure she spotted a little girl in their garden. Richard convinces her that she is wrong, even to the point of trying to convince Danny of the same thing. However, Juliette knows her own mind, and thus the mystery truly begins.
What is it about Richard and Sarah? Why is Richard so controlling? How much will Sarah trust Juliette? Also, there is one factor that cannot be ignored. Not only does Sarah feel ill on many occasions, Juliette begins to feel a bit odd at times, even to the point of doubting certain things happening.
Why the title The Life She Wants? Well, in this thrilling story readers will see how covetousness is indeed a sin and how one little lie can start a roller coaster of events. It is a dark story of envy, drama, and also control mixed with gaslighting. As this story is told mostly from Juliette's point of view, it grew even more intriguing as we learn more about Sarah and how she came to be with Richard. I couldn't put this book down, especially as everything came together in breakneck speed. Kudos to Mel Sherratt for writing such an exciting book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Meanwhile, Juliette and Danny have a reason tor moving into their new home. They suffered a tragedy and are trying to make a new start in life. Juliette is glad to have met Sarah and hopes the two will become great friends. One day, Julliette is sure she spotted a little girl in their garden. Richard convinces her that she is wrong, even to the point of trying to convince Danny of the same thing. However, Juliette knows her own mind, and thus the mystery truly begins.
What is it about Richard and Sarah? Why is Richard so controlling? How much will Sarah trust Juliette? Also, there is one factor that cannot be ignored. Not only does Sarah feel ill on many occasions, Juliette begins to feel a bit odd at times, even to the point of doubting certain things happening.
Why the title The Life She Wants? Well, in this thrilling story readers will see how covetousness is indeed a sin and how one little lie can start a roller coaster of events. It is a dark story of envy, drama, and also control mixed with gaslighting. As this story is told mostly from Juliette's point of view, it grew even more intriguing as we learn more about Sarah and how she came to be with Richard. I couldn't put this book down, especially as everything came together in breakneck speed. Kudos to Mel Sherratt for writing such an exciting book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
October 18, 2021
My Review:
Dark and twisted just the way I love my books. This is not my first rodeo with this author and it definitely won’t be my last. I have loved every book that I read by her. She keeps the reader on their toes up until the very end. You never know what the next chapter will bring. She is one of my favorites. The Blurb is what drew me to this book. I knew once I read it that this book was right up my alley. I enjoyed this book from the very first word. The way this author writes captures the readers and makes them feel like they are right there living the nightmare with the characters. Ok, so let’s talk about the characters. Omg, this author did such a great job with them. The characters are what made this book wonderful. I don’t want to give too much away but I’m sure you will love the characters as much as I did. So that ending was one for the ages. I loved it. It made the book come together perfectly. All I kept thinking is that Karma will always come back and bite you in the end. I’m so happy I read this book and I look forward to her next one.
Between the plot, characters and all the twists in this book it made it an easy and fast read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 5 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Dark and twisted just the way I love my books. This is not my first rodeo with this author and it definitely won’t be my last. I have loved every book that I read by her. She keeps the reader on their toes up until the very end. You never know what the next chapter will bring. She is one of my favorites. The Blurb is what drew me to this book. I knew once I read it that this book was right up my alley. I enjoyed this book from the very first word. The way this author writes captures the readers and makes them feel like they are right there living the nightmare with the characters. Ok, so let’s talk about the characters. Omg, this author did such a great job with them. The characters are what made this book wonderful. I don’t want to give too much away but I’m sure you will love the characters as much as I did. So that ending was one for the ages. I loved it. It made the book come together perfectly. All I kept thinking is that Karma will always come back and bite you in the end. I’m so happy I read this book and I look forward to her next one.
Between the plot, characters and all the twists in this book it made it an easy and fast read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it 5 Hearts❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
October 6, 2021
Rtc
Arc from Netgalley
Arc from Netgalley
September 11, 2024
Thrillery psychologiczne to jeden z tych gatunków, po które zawsze sięgam z przyjemnością oczekując dreszczu emocji, przeżywanego wraz z bohaterami narastającego poczucia zagrożenia i oczywiście zaskakujących zwrotów akcji. W tej powieści znalazłam to wszystko, czego oczekiwałam dodatkowo okraszone mrocznym i wręcz klaustrofobicznym klimatem.
Książka dostępna jest w formie audio, więc duże znaczenie ma jej wykonanie. Ja wysłuchałam jej z ogromną przyjemnością, a interpretacja dwojga lektorów, Ewy Abart i Jakuba Sasaka ma niebagatelne znaczenie, ponieważ dzięki podziałowi na głosy zyskujemy czytelność i łatwość nadążania za zmianami linii czasowych, narracji czy perspektywy kolejnych bohaterów.
Powieść podzielona jest na trzy części, z których wyłania się obraz teraźniejszości oraz dalszej i bliższej przeszłości niezbędny, by poznać sytuację, by odczytać właściwie motywacje bohaterów. Nie ułatwia to jednak odkrycia prawdy, która szokuje i porusza do głębi. Krótkie rozdziały, idealne, by przesłuchać jeszcze tylko ten jeden, jedyny, nadają dynamiki akcji i nieustannie budują napięcie.
Lubię thrillery, w których największy mrok i najbrudniejsze tajemnice skrywają zwykli ludzie, uśmiechnięci, machający na powitanie, mijani codziennie. I lubię, gdy fasada, za którą się skrywają zostaje obalona ujawniając ich prawdziwe oblicza, co zwiastuje nadciągające zagrożenie i eskalację konfliktu. Tu Autorka prócz narastającego pomiędzy sąsiadami napięcia serwuje nam wiele innych tematów idealnie wpisujących się w fabułę. Traumatyczne przeżycia, życie po stracie, przemocowe dzieciństwo, toksyczny związek, morderstwo i fascynujące, choć trudne relacje między rodzeństwem.
Jeśli szukacie w powieściach dreszczyku emocji, to tu go znajdziecie, ale będziecie mogli zmierzyć się również z wyobraźnią Autorki, bo nic nie jest takim, jakim się początkowo wydaje. W każdym razie ja dopiero pod koniec i to w części domyśliłam się głęboko skrywanej brzydkiej prawdy. Zachęcam do przesłuchania również tych z Was, którzy nie są przekonani do audiobooków. Może to właśnie od „Idealnego miejsca” je pokochacie?
Książka dostępna jest w formie audio, więc duże znaczenie ma jej wykonanie. Ja wysłuchałam jej z ogromną przyjemnością, a interpretacja dwojga lektorów, Ewy Abart i Jakuba Sasaka ma niebagatelne znaczenie, ponieważ dzięki podziałowi na głosy zyskujemy czytelność i łatwość nadążania za zmianami linii czasowych, narracji czy perspektywy kolejnych bohaterów.
Powieść podzielona jest na trzy części, z których wyłania się obraz teraźniejszości oraz dalszej i bliższej przeszłości niezbędny, by poznać sytuację, by odczytać właściwie motywacje bohaterów. Nie ułatwia to jednak odkrycia prawdy, która szokuje i porusza do głębi. Krótkie rozdziały, idealne, by przesłuchać jeszcze tylko ten jeden, jedyny, nadają dynamiki akcji i nieustannie budują napięcie.
Lubię thrillery, w których największy mrok i najbrudniejsze tajemnice skrywają zwykli ludzie, uśmiechnięci, machający na powitanie, mijani codziennie. I lubię, gdy fasada, za którą się skrywają zostaje obalona ujawniając ich prawdziwe oblicza, co zwiastuje nadciągające zagrożenie i eskalację konfliktu. Tu Autorka prócz narastającego pomiędzy sąsiadami napięcia serwuje nam wiele innych tematów idealnie wpisujących się w fabułę. Traumatyczne przeżycia, życie po stracie, przemocowe dzieciństwo, toksyczny związek, morderstwo i fascynujące, choć trudne relacje między rodzeństwem.
Jeśli szukacie w powieściach dreszczyku emocji, to tu go znajdziecie, ale będziecie mogli zmierzyć się również z wyobraźnią Autorki, bo nic nie jest takim, jakim się początkowo wydaje. W każdym razie ja dopiero pod koniec i to w części domyśliłam się głęboko skrywanej brzydkiej prawdy. Zachęcam do przesłuchania również tych z Was, którzy nie są przekonani do audiobooków. Może to właśnie od „Idealnego miejsca” je pokochacie?
October 14, 2023
Juliette and Danny move into a new home after the tragic death of their young daughter, in an effort to start again and make fresh memories.
Their neighbours Sarah and Richard appear to be friendly and all is well until Juliette is convinced she saw a young girl in her neighbours garden. Richard tries to convince her that her grief is making her see things. Juliette is not convinced and she will not let it go.
I loved this book, it held me captive from the start with its many secrets and red herrings that try to put you off the trail, not knowing who you can trust.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Their neighbours Sarah and Richard appear to be friendly and all is well until Juliette is convinced she saw a young girl in her neighbours garden. Richard tries to convince her that her grief is making her see things. Juliette is not convinced and she will not let it go.
I loved this book, it held me captive from the start with its many secrets and red herrings that try to put you off the trail, not knowing who you can trust.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2021
This is my first time reading this author so I cannot gush over her latest novel. After reading the premise I thought this was going to suspenseful and twisted and it was for the most part. However, it did become predictable, which I dislike in any book but mostly with thrillers/suspense. Yes, Juliette and Richard have some traumatic events and a character that has been stalking them to gain what she wants, seems like a book right up alley, but figuring out Sarah's goal was predictable as well as Juliette and Richard being so dumb and too trusting to figure it.
This may be an unpopular opinion but I did not like this book at all. I give one star for the cover and premise. The other star is that the book ended. Glad I did not spend money on this! Cannot recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley, Mel Sherratt, and Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 11/30/21
This may be an unpopular opinion but I did not like this book at all. I give one star for the cover and premise. The other star is that the book ended. Glad I did not spend money on this! Cannot recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley, Mel Sherratt, and Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Available: 11/30/21
November 30, 2021
#thelifeshewants by @mel_sherratt was my most recent read via @netgalley! Thanks @bookouture for providing this audiobook for review! Thanks to the author for providing the most dispicable male character Ive read all year (Dick). Richard is such a creep I literally wanted to kill him. When a sweet couple moves in next door, Richards connvining ways even extend to them, and likewise, his squeamish partner is pitiable enough at first UNTIL you learn about HER and mannnnnn is she a peice of work!! I honestly still didnt feel like the end twisted for me bc i knew from Dicks background what had occurred but i guess those naive neighbors wound up setting the scene for some comeuppance. I honestly was so intrigued by this i almost stayed up until the very end, but fearing id fall asleep and lose my spot, I stopped it and the ending didnt punch for me like it shouldve. Still I was left feeling conflicted at the end bc the victor in the scenario was also pretty dispicable. I think the break in the audio also did a number on the suspense so note to self: do not quit on a high drama spot! Has that ever happened to any of you??
If you like characters who go beyond morally grey into morally gross, who gaslight the shit out of one another, you'll enjoy this story that involves neighbors.
Note to self: ignore your new neighbors and #mindyourbusiness !!!!
#netgalley
#neighbors
#myneighborsgotasecret
#netgalley
#bookoutre
#audiobook
If you like characters who go beyond morally grey into morally gross, who gaslight the shit out of one another, you'll enjoy this story that involves neighbors.
Note to self: ignore your new neighbors and #mindyourbusiness !!!!
#netgalley
#neighbors
#myneighborsgotasecret
#netgalley
#bookoutre
#audiobook
November 28, 2021
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
life has to start again for juliette and her husband danny after their daughter dies from an illness, so they start again in a new place, with the hopes that it will help them recover from their grief....to carry on
richard is an aspiring artist and he is use to the house next door to him being empty so when juliette and danny move in, he knows that things are going to change... his wife sarah is hopeful....
as the two couples get to know each other with invites to dinner, it becomes obvious that things are not right in their household and juliette and danny are concerned
as juliette looks out of her window one morning she sees a young girl running up and down next doors garden..when she enquires about the little girl richard and sarah deny a little girl had ever been there...
and so the games begin for juliette who gets up one morning to find her front and back door wide open, and she cant remember if she closed them or not and then how did one of her daughters toys end up on the new bench in their garden, is she losing her mind or is there more sinister things going on....
wow this one was right to the edge of mind games and violence, very well written with character that you begin to love and hate...
life has to start again for juliette and her husband danny after their daughter dies from an illness, so they start again in a new place, with the hopes that it will help them recover from their grief....to carry on
richard is an aspiring artist and he is use to the house next door to him being empty so when juliette and danny move in, he knows that things are going to change... his wife sarah is hopeful....
as the two couples get to know each other with invites to dinner, it becomes obvious that things are not right in their household and juliette and danny are concerned
as juliette looks out of her window one morning she sees a young girl running up and down next doors garden..when she enquires about the little girl richard and sarah deny a little girl had ever been there...
and so the games begin for juliette who gets up one morning to find her front and back door wide open, and she cant remember if she closed them or not and then how did one of her daughters toys end up on the new bench in their garden, is she losing her mind or is there more sinister things going on....
wow this one was right to the edge of mind games and violence, very well written with character that you begin to love and hate...
November 27, 2021
Mel Sherratt is a new author to me. After reading The Life She Wants I'll make sure I won't miss her next books.
This is a suspenseful, dark, domestic / psychological thriller that hooks you in right from the start and keeps you on the edge of your seat for the whole duration. It's fast paced and creepy, and the end is very satisfying.
I must pay my compliments to the narrator that did an incredible job: she succeded in giving every character their very own distinctive voice, so that you never get confused about who's talking. Great job indeed!
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is a suspenseful, dark, domestic / psychological thriller that hooks you in right from the start and keeps you on the edge of your seat for the whole duration. It's fast paced and creepy, and the end is very satisfying.
I must pay my compliments to the narrator that did an incredible job: she succeded in giving every character their very own distinctive voice, so that you never get confused about who's talking. Great job indeed!
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2021
This is a great read.
Juliette and Danny move to Derby for a fresh start after their daughter’s death.
Their neighbour’s Sarah and Richard, have been used to having an empty house near them and it’s clear they have a few secrets that they want to keep hidden.
Juliette is alone in the house during the week while Danny is working in London and tries to get to know Sarah, but she doesn’t seem to want to socialise with her.
There are three parts to the story and we learn about Sarah’s past and how she came to be with Richard.
This is a great story that will definitely have you hooked.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Juliette and Danny move to Derby for a fresh start after their daughter’s death.
Their neighbour’s Sarah and Richard, have been used to having an empty house near them and it’s clear they have a few secrets that they want to keep hidden.
Juliette is alone in the house during the week while Danny is working in London and tries to get to know Sarah, but she doesn’t seem to want to socialise with her.
There are three parts to the story and we learn about Sarah’s past and how she came to be with Richard.
This is a great story that will definitely have you hooked.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 13, 2022
The life she wants is centred around two sets of neighbours. Juliette and Ali move to the quiet village, after the tragic loss of their daughter. they want to start a family again but both of them are still grieving. With Ali working in London still Juliette wants to get to know their neighbours. Sarah and Richard live next door they are an odd couple but make an effort to befriend their ne neighbours. But Juliette thinks that Richard is up to something, especially when she think she sees a child in her garden. but Ali thinks it's the grief but she believes her neighbours are trying to make her think she's crazy.
i really enjoyed this book, I must admit it was slow going but the further in i got the better it became. the book is written from 3 points of view Sarah's, Juliette and one from years earlier. i found i enjoyed the mystery point of view, i was trying to guess if it was one of the women or someone completely different. I must admit I wasn't too keen on Sarah she was a little whiney however she becomes more interesting as I continued reading. The more sympathetic of a character she becomes.
What I did love about this book was the fact it freaked me out, its the kind of psychological thriller that makes you think this could happen to me. that's why i i became quite engrossed in the book. I wasn't sure if i believed that Richard was the cause or if Sarah was making it up, that's what kept me completely engaged. Would i recommend the life she wants? yes i would, the author has a skill she's able to describe things in such a way that i felt i was there. It was gritty and the ending was insane!!!! i rate this 4 stars.
thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture publishers and Mel Sherratt for an ARC of the life she wants.
i really enjoyed this book, I must admit it was slow going but the further in i got the better it became. the book is written from 3 points of view Sarah's, Juliette and one from years earlier. i found i enjoyed the mystery point of view, i was trying to guess if it was one of the women or someone completely different. I must admit I wasn't too keen on Sarah she was a little whiney however she becomes more interesting as I continued reading. The more sympathetic of a character she becomes.
What I did love about this book was the fact it freaked me out, its the kind of psychological thriller that makes you think this could happen to me. that's why i i became quite engrossed in the book. I wasn't sure if i believed that Richard was the cause or if Sarah was making it up, that's what kept me completely engaged. Would i recommend the life she wants? yes i would, the author has a skill she's able to describe things in such a way that i felt i was there. It was gritty and the ending was insane!!!! i rate this 4 stars.
thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture publishers and Mel Sherratt for an ARC of the life she wants.
November 15, 2021
A couple move to a new location after the death of their doughter. They settle in a nice house and belive the neighbours are nice too. But more time they are there more strange things happen. It becomes more and more crazy, hard to understand that it can be that way. But hopefully isna fiction and I have to remind myself. Not bad at all. Thank you Netgalley and Bookoture Audio for this audio copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2021
Thank you NetGalley for the eArc of The Life She Wants.
Juliette and Danny decide to move to the countryside after the unexpected death of their young daughter. Danny is commuting from the city to the new home until he is able to sort out his work, so Juliette spends the first few weeks at the new home alone.
Juliette meets their neighbors, Sarah and Richard, and the rest of the town. She's excited to get to know everyone and settle into this new life. Juliette starts to notice Richard is condescending towards Sarah and is always rude to her. Over time, she sees and experiences some strange phenomenon that she can't explain, and no one believes her. Her door is left wide open, she swore she saw and heard a child running around outside, and pictures are missing from her phone. Is Juliette losing her mind as a trauma response to losing her daughter?
After a strange conversation in the garden with Sarah, Juliette is determined to find the truth about her neighbors. When she learns some unpleasant information, Juliette fears her own life.
This was a decent thriller. I felt tense towards the end when all the strange little things throughout the story fell into place and made sense. It wasn't anything special for me, but I didn't hate it. I would like to read more from this author.
Juliette and Danny decide to move to the countryside after the unexpected death of their young daughter. Danny is commuting from the city to the new home until he is able to sort out his work, so Juliette spends the first few weeks at the new home alone.
Juliette meets their neighbors, Sarah and Richard, and the rest of the town. She's excited to get to know everyone and settle into this new life. Juliette starts to notice Richard is condescending towards Sarah and is always rude to her. Over time, she sees and experiences some strange phenomenon that she can't explain, and no one believes her. Her door is left wide open, she swore she saw and heard a child running around outside, and pictures are missing from her phone. Is Juliette losing her mind as a trauma response to losing her daughter?
After a strange conversation in the garden with Sarah, Juliette is determined to find the truth about her neighbors. When she learns some unpleasant information, Juliette fears her own life.
This was a decent thriller. I felt tense towards the end when all the strange little things throughout the story fell into place and made sense. It wasn't anything special for me, but I didn't hate it. I would like to read more from this author.
December 8, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Life She Wants' by Mel Sherratt.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Mel Sherratt, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 29th November 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Ten Days' and which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A heart-stopping psychological thriller with a truly brilliant twist, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, T.M. Logan and K.L. Slater'. I am a huge fan of Lisa Jewell and K. L. Slater so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Mel and if this is half as good as 'Ten Days' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 67 chapters written over three parts. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set in the Midlands 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. I always seem to get on with books that are set in the UK better as I am from Wales and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book. The fact that this book is based in the Midlands is even better as I've visited and holidayed in the Midlands many times. I'm definitely excited to see if it mentions any places I recognise!!
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Juliette, Sarah and Louisa. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'The Life She Wants' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Mel discusses/includes death of a child.
Wow!!!! What did I just read???!!! Love, love, LOVED IT!!! Well done Mel you've done it again!!!
OMG!!!! What a shocking, unpredictable page turner that was!!! Absolutely unputdownable!!! Extremely well written with vivid descriptions. The cover and synopsis fitted the storyline perfectly.
The storyline is unique and I was absolutely captivated from the very first sentence until the end. I love the fact that we get to see what is happening from so many different characters perspectives. OMG so many twists!!!!! I LOVE IT!!! Its very rare that a book can completely shock me but Mel managed it so many times I lost count! There were some major assumption in my part and I feel several other readers will do this too. I had no idea who to trust and who was telling the truth and the twists just kept coming. It also goes to show that firstly you never know what goes on behind closed doors and secondly you can't judge someone by their 'cover'. I was completely absorbed throughout and I just couldn't put this book down!! The storyline is absolutely rammed full of shocks, tension, suspense, twists, turns and much more, everything you could ask for in a psychological thriller!!!
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
I was extremely invested in the characters and I enjoyed learning not only about Juliette, Louis and Sarah and the other characters but it was also fascinating to learn about Richard. I had quite alot of sympathy for Louisa and even Sarah on several occasions and what they went through is sadly something that happens on a daily basis. I won't say any further than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. I loved how Eva was such a fighter and a very strong female lead, I was absolutely devastated by certain events, again I won't say more than that but they were heartbreaking.
A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS Mel on what is definitely a huge success. Such a heart racing, rollercoaster ride filled with suspense and tension. I cannot wait to read more of your previous and future books, especially any psychological thrillers you have coming up. Welcome to my top authour club!!!
Overall a heart stopping, unputdownable, page turning psychological thriller that will shock and surprise you throughout!!!
Genres covered in this novel include Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, Psychological Thriller and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Lisa Jewell, T.M. Logan and K.L. Slater.
306 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheLifeSheWants #Bookouture #MelSherratt #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@MelSherratt @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'The Life She Wants' by Mel Sherratt.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Mel Sherratt, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 29th November 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'Ten Days' and which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A heart-stopping psychological thriller with a truly brilliant twist, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, T.M. Logan and K.L. Slater'. I am a huge fan of Lisa Jewell and K. L. Slater so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Mel and if this is half as good as 'Ten Days' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 67 chapters written over three parts. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is set in the Midlands 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. I always seem to get on with books that are set in the UK better as I am from Wales and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book. The fact that this book is based in the Midlands is even better as I've visited and holidayed in the Midlands many times. I'm definitely excited to see if it mentions any places I recognise!!
This book is written in a mix of third and first person perspective and the protagonists are Juliette, Sarah and Louisa. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything. To have the benefit of both first and third person perspective ensures you don't miss out on anything.
'The Life She Wants' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Mel discusses/includes death of a child.
Wow!!!! What did I just read???!!! Love, love, LOVED IT!!! Well done Mel you've done it again!!!
OMG!!!! What a shocking, unpredictable page turner that was!!! Absolutely unputdownable!!! Extremely well written with vivid descriptions. The cover and synopsis fitted the storyline perfectly.
The storyline is unique and I was absolutely captivated from the very first sentence until the end. I love the fact that we get to see what is happening from so many different characters perspectives. OMG so many twists!!!!! I LOVE IT!!! Its very rare that a book can completely shock me but Mel managed it so many times I lost count! There were some major assumption in my part and I feel several other readers will do this too. I had no idea who to trust and who was telling the truth and the twists just kept coming. It also goes to show that firstly you never know what goes on behind closed doors and secondly you can't judge someone by their 'cover'. I was completely absorbed throughout and I just couldn't put this book down!! The storyline is absolutely rammed full of shocks, tension, suspense, twists, turns and much more, everything you could ask for in a psychological thriller!!!
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
I was extremely invested in the characters and I enjoyed learning not only about Juliette, Louis and Sarah and the other characters but it was also fascinating to learn about Richard. I had quite alot of sympathy for Louisa and even Sarah on several occasions and what they went through is sadly something that happens on a daily basis. I won't say any further than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. I loved how Eva was such a fighter and a very strong female lead, I was absolutely devastated by certain events, again I won't say more than that but they were heartbreaking.
A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS Mel on what is definitely a huge success. Such a heart racing, rollercoaster ride filled with suspense and tension. I cannot wait to read more of your previous and future books, especially any psychological thrillers you have coming up. Welcome to my top authour club!!!
Overall a heart stopping, unputdownable, page turning psychological thriller that will shock and surprise you throughout!!!
Genres covered in this novel include Thriller, Mystery, Suspense, Psychological Thriller and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Lisa Jewell, T.M. Logan and K.L. Slater.
306 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheLifeSheWants #Bookouture #MelSherratt #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@MelSherratt @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
October 25, 2022
The life she wants is a page turner for sure? It is gripping and the story lines are smooth but oh so twisted. It's no surprise that this book is difficult to put down given that its a Mel Sherratt book! I loved the way the book opens into a compelling scene and chapter. From there there is no option but to keep turning thise pages. Somewhere along the way I could figure out where this was headed but the journey to there was twisted and there were a few things I did not see coming. The characters in the book were good and my favorite was off course Juliette!
Thank you NetGalley Bookouture and Mel Sherratt for the arc!
Thank you NetGalley Bookouture and Mel Sherratt for the arc!
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