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The New Friends
They are fun, wealthy, fabulous. Pray you never meet them.
Becky and Jamie are an ordinary hard-working couple trapped in the daily grind, dreaming of an easier life. On one of their rare vacations, they meet a wealthy couple, Phil and Mel, who seem to have it all – they are fun, well travelled, and very generous with their money.
But they are also very, very dangerous.
Because Phil and Mel are not who they say they are. And this is no random vacation friendship, they have chosen Jamie and Becky carefully, seducing them with the promise of a lifestyle just like theirs.
By the time Jamie and Becky realise what their new friends really want, it’s too late, they’ve lost everything, their hopes and dreams lie shattered.
The only question now is how far will they go to get even?
Becky and Jamie are an ordinary hard-working couple trapped in the daily grind, dreaming of an easier life. On one of their rare vacations, they meet a wealthy couple, Phil and Mel, who seem to have it all – they are fun, well travelled, and very generous with their money.
But they are also very, very dangerous.
Because Phil and Mel are not who they say they are. And this is no random vacation friendship, they have chosen Jamie and Becky carefully, seducing them with the promise of a lifestyle just like theirs.
By the time Jamie and Becky realise what their new friends really want, it’s too late, they’ve lost everything, their hopes and dreams lie shattered.
The only question now is how far will they go to get even?
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 12, 2021
4133 people are currently reading
2048 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Hurst
89 books3,966 followersDaniel Hurst is an Amazon #1 bestselling author of fast paced psychological thrillers. His most popular titles include Til Death Do Us Part, The Passenger and The Doctor's Wife, the latter title reaching #1 on the Amazon UK Kindle store in February 2023. A regular KDP Select All Star since he became a full-time author in 2021, Daniel prides himself on writing fast, releasing stories often and engaging with his readers.
You can visit him at www.danielhurstbooks.com, where you can also download a copy of his FREE thriller 'Just One Second.'
You can visit him at www.danielhurstbooks.com, where you can also download a copy of his FREE thriller 'Just One Second.'
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 351 reviews
July 4, 2023
Sometimes very entertaining, but I felt it veered off to lala-land in the second part of the book. Sudden personality changes doesn’t sit well with me..
December 4, 2025
Thoughts
This wasn't a bad read at all, but everything felt so predictable from the first page it sucked the thrill out of thriller. Fun read nothing groundbreaking
Plot Summary
Becky and Jamie, a hardworking couple longing for a better life, meet the glamorous, wealthy Phil and Mel while on vacation. The pairs quickly bond, and the rich couple showers them with attention, luxury, and generosity. But behind the charm, Phil and Mel are hiding dangerous motives. They deliberately targeted Becky and Jamie, luring them in with the promise of an extravagant lifestyle. By the time the truth surfaces, Becky and Jamie have been ruined—financially and emotionally. Left with nothing -- the question is how far will they go to fight back?
My Bookstagram
This wasn't a bad read at all, but everything felt so predictable from the first page it sucked the thrill out of thriller. Fun read nothing groundbreaking
Plot Summary
Becky and Jamie, a hardworking couple longing for a better life, meet the glamorous, wealthy Phil and Mel while on vacation. The pairs quickly bond, and the rich couple showers them with attention, luxury, and generosity. But behind the charm, Phil and Mel are hiding dangerous motives. They deliberately targeted Becky and Jamie, luring them in with the promise of an extravagant lifestyle. By the time the truth surfaces, Becky and Jamie have been ruined—financially and emotionally. Left with nothing -- the question is how far will they go to fight back?
My Bookstagram
December 22, 2021
I received a gifted advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.
The New Friends is a chilling, dark psychological thriller that was fast paced and intriguing.
Becky and Jamie are in their thirtys and have been married to each other for ten years. They have blown their meagre savings on a holiday they desperately needed. Although they are on a very tight spending budget they lap up the sunshine and enjoy their well earned holiday. On the last night the couple blow the last of their holiday cash on a very rare extravagance- a night out. This is where their lives get changed forever.
Mel and Phil are also on holiday and get friendly with Becky and Jamie on their last night. But are they all they seem to be? After exchanging numbers, the couples vow to keep in touch with each other after they've returned from their holidays. But how well do they think they know Mel and Phil, and should they trust everything they're told?
This was a very quick read for me as I was captivated from the first few pages. If you love psychological thrillers you need to give this a read!
The New Friends is a chilling, dark psychological thriller that was fast paced and intriguing.
Becky and Jamie are in their thirtys and have been married to each other for ten years. They have blown their meagre savings on a holiday they desperately needed. Although they are on a very tight spending budget they lap up the sunshine and enjoy their well earned holiday. On the last night the couple blow the last of their holiday cash on a very rare extravagance- a night out. This is where their lives get changed forever.
Mel and Phil are also on holiday and get friendly with Becky and Jamie on their last night. But are they all they seem to be? After exchanging numbers, the couples vow to keep in touch with each other after they've returned from their holidays. But how well do they think they know Mel and Phil, and should they trust everything they're told?
This was a very quick read for me as I was captivated from the first few pages. If you love psychological thrillers you need to give this a read!
December 27, 2022
it's difficult not to empathize
with the couple living tightly
during their holiday abroad
right before a fatal mistake:
not many surprises though.
with the couple living tightly
during their holiday abroad
right before a fatal mistake:
not many surprises though.
September 29, 2022
How easy is it to be conned and scammed?
(It's pretty easy!)
"The New Friends" introduces readers to Phil, a highly skilled and savvy con man who preys on young hard-working couples trapped in the daily grind, dreaming of easier lives.
Phil befriends these vulnerable couples, earns their trust, and then wipes out their savings accounts.
In this book, author Daniel Hurst reveals "The Art of the Scam", step-by-step, and it is riveting.
Throughout the entire book, I was never sure what was going to happen next, and the author's multiple twists and red herrings did not disappoint.
I felt that the author faltered at the end of the book and that was why this book did not earn all 5-stars.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration was superb.
Daniel Hurst has released 14 audiobooks this year and I have listened to them all.
I will be looking forward to listening to audiobook #15 when it is released.
(It's pretty easy!)
"The New Friends" introduces readers to Phil, a highly skilled and savvy con man who preys on young hard-working couples trapped in the daily grind, dreaming of easier lives.
Phil befriends these vulnerable couples, earns their trust, and then wipes out their savings accounts.
In this book, author Daniel Hurst reveals "The Art of the Scam", step-by-step, and it is riveting.
Throughout the entire book, I was never sure what was going to happen next, and the author's multiple twists and red herrings did not disappoint.
I felt that the author faltered at the end of the book and that was why this book did not earn all 5-stars.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration was superb.
Daniel Hurst has released 14 audiobooks this year and I have listened to them all.
I will be looking forward to listening to audiobook #15 when it is released.
July 31, 2022
I really enjoy Daniel Hurst’s books but this one had me skimming the last third of the book. It started out quite well as his books do but the repetition drove me nuts. Each of the main characters has chapters. It boils down to them saying the same things over and over. Usually that works brilliantly but not so in this story.
October 17, 2022
DNF 68%
My Review as follows:
This is supposed to be a psychological thriller. There are raving reviews such as "Another brilliant book by Daniel Hurst" I wouldn't go so far as it being brilliant. I'm not sure what so brilliant about it. Another person wrote "This one doesn't quit for two seconds, it throws you in instantly". I can agree with that, your sucked into a book that in my opinion is very High Schoolish. I don't believe this is a young adult book. I don't believe that was in the YA category but it should be. The writing is something you would see by a Teenager writing a paper for English class. It reads like a YA with short and simple sentences. The only YA book I have loved is the "Good Girls Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson" at least that series was well written. This plot, this story is so incredibly boring, you can't help but roll your eyes 🙄. Here's the plot: A couple (who isn't actually married and uses fake names) con's couples out of money. That's it folks. How is that brilliant? That's so ordinary and so...plain I can't help but laugh. Moving on, I noticed that the book was very repetitive, it was a major eye roll and annoying. Let me give you an example: At 17% of the book: "Jamie brought up the subject he tends to talk a lot less about, having a baby" "My husband told me he was very eager to start trying for a baby" " My husband had worked hard to give us a better chance to be able to afford a baby"
Thats just in a few paragraphs 🤣. How many times can you say "baby? I counted 7 in total before it finally shifted into a new topic. I wish I was kidding 🙄. There were several examples I could name but that's the general idea. Between the writing and the plot, I put the book down and stopped reading. I had to pick up a different book. Would I ever consider reading Daniel Hurst again? I'm not so sure. There are fans who love his simplistic, easy, short writing. That's okay. I myself, I like to read books that are a more advanced such as longer sentences, fancy words, a heavier plot, more well thought out characters.
In conclusion: I did not finish this book and have no desire to pick it back up. I did read further than I usually do which is normally around 40% or at least 10 chapters. I try to give the Author a chance but if a book doesn't bring me joy, I drop it and find one that will. Life is too short to waste not being happy. There are zillions of books out there waiting to be discovered. To be fair, I am rating this a 3 out of 5. And, this my third book I've dropped in a week so Hurst isn't the only Author I've dnf.
All reviews are my personal humble, honest opinion. We all don't always have the same taste and that's okay 😃 that's what makes us unique.
Goodnight!
My Review as follows:
This is supposed to be a psychological thriller. There are raving reviews such as "Another brilliant book by Daniel Hurst" I wouldn't go so far as it being brilliant. I'm not sure what so brilliant about it. Another person wrote "This one doesn't quit for two seconds, it throws you in instantly". I can agree with that, your sucked into a book that in my opinion is very High Schoolish. I don't believe this is a young adult book. I don't believe that was in the YA category but it should be. The writing is something you would see by a Teenager writing a paper for English class. It reads like a YA with short and simple sentences. The only YA book I have loved is the "Good Girls Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson" at least that series was well written. This plot, this story is so incredibly boring, you can't help but roll your eyes 🙄. Here's the plot: A couple (who isn't actually married and uses fake names) con's couples out of money. That's it folks. How is that brilliant? That's so ordinary and so...plain I can't help but laugh. Moving on, I noticed that the book was very repetitive, it was a major eye roll and annoying. Let me give you an example: At 17% of the book: "Jamie brought up the subject he tends to talk a lot less about, having a baby" "My husband told me he was very eager to start trying for a baby" " My husband had worked hard to give us a better chance to be able to afford a baby"
Thats just in a few paragraphs 🤣. How many times can you say "baby? I counted 7 in total before it finally shifted into a new topic. I wish I was kidding 🙄. There were several examples I could name but that's the general idea. Between the writing and the plot, I put the book down and stopped reading. I had to pick up a different book. Would I ever consider reading Daniel Hurst again? I'm not so sure. There are fans who love his simplistic, easy, short writing. That's okay. I myself, I like to read books that are a more advanced such as longer sentences, fancy words, a heavier plot, more well thought out characters.
In conclusion: I did not finish this book and have no desire to pick it back up. I did read further than I usually do which is normally around 40% or at least 10 chapters. I try to give the Author a chance but if a book doesn't bring me joy, I drop it and find one that will. Life is too short to waste not being happy. There are zillions of books out there waiting to be discovered. To be fair, I am rating this a 3 out of 5. And, this my third book I've dropped in a week so Hurst isn't the only Author I've dnf.
All reviews are my personal humble, honest opinion. We all don't always have the same taste and that's okay 😃 that's what makes us unique.
Goodnight!
December 3, 2022
I had about 30 min left of the audiobook and while I could hear it was getting more intense, it just didn't evoke any need to figure out more or getting to the end. Very gossip like drama but I just wasn't intrigued
November 29, 2024
Daniel Hurst once again proves to be the master of psychological thrillers. He cleverly weaves a tale of deceit and betrayal with countless ingenious twists that was riveting from start to finish. It’s fast-paced, original and highly entertaining. This is another five star read by this clever author and I can’t wait to read his latest creation. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 23, 2021
I very rarely leave reviews for books but felt I had to in this case.
I picked up this book because I was craving a trashy, easy to read, crime thriller, and I certainly got what I wished for.
While the subject matter was interesting and relatively gripping, the writing is absolutely abysmal. It really felt like I was reading something targeted at beginner learners of the English language. The book is so repetitive it is insane. The repetition of 'the woman/man/girl/baby beside me' throughout the book drove me mad once I started to notice it was for some reason sprinkled into every page around 3 times. Possibly even more annoying is how every single character repeats their thoughts so many times as if the reader really needs to be slapped around the face with whatever basic thought they are having in order to understand it. It really feels like it is insulting your intelligence.
I'm not familiar with the author but from what I have read about him it sounds as though he just churns out book after book one after the other, and you can really tell.
The story also feels very flat through its lack of descriptive language. Becky would simply cook 'a delicious meal', after collecting Jamie from his 'place of work'. What was the meal? What were the scents filling the room as she cooked it? What does Jamie's 'place of work' (which we already know to be a warehouse) look like? Give me something! I hard a really hard time getting wrapped up in the story because it was borderline impossible to visualise anything in it. (One example I can think of where Hurst actually offers a description of something in the story is when 'a fun song' is playing in the Epilogue... come on)
Unfortunately my qualms with the writing really impeded upon my enjoyment of the book, and I ended up feeling like I was grading an essay the whole time while reading. (See the line: 'I don’t remember looking quite so forward to a weekend away with friends as I have done for this one') The overall grade would have been decent if the student were under the age of 13, but alas, Hurst has much more writing experience under his belt than that.
I gave it a rating of 2 stars overall because I did gain some enjoyment from it. I liked how relatable some of the characters were, and the fairly basic plot was along the lines of what I was after, I just wish it were executed a lot better.
I picked up this book because I was craving a trashy, easy to read, crime thriller, and I certainly got what I wished for.
While the subject matter was interesting and relatively gripping, the writing is absolutely abysmal. It really felt like I was reading something targeted at beginner learners of the English language. The book is so repetitive it is insane. The repetition of 'the woman/man/girl/baby beside me' throughout the book drove me mad once I started to notice it was for some reason sprinkled into every page around 3 times. Possibly even more annoying is how every single character repeats their thoughts so many times as if the reader really needs to be slapped around the face with whatever basic thought they are having in order to understand it. It really feels like it is insulting your intelligence.
I'm not familiar with the author but from what I have read about him it sounds as though he just churns out book after book one after the other, and you can really tell.
The story also feels very flat through its lack of descriptive language. Becky would simply cook 'a delicious meal', after collecting Jamie from his 'place of work'. What was the meal? What were the scents filling the room as she cooked it? What does Jamie's 'place of work' (which we already know to be a warehouse) look like? Give me something! I hard a really hard time getting wrapped up in the story because it was borderline impossible to visualise anything in it. (One example I can think of where Hurst actually offers a description of something in the story is when 'a fun song' is playing in the Epilogue... come on)
Unfortunately my qualms with the writing really impeded upon my enjoyment of the book, and I ended up feeling like I was grading an essay the whole time while reading. (See the line: 'I don’t remember looking quite so forward to a weekend away with friends as I have done for this one') The overall grade would have been decent if the student were under the age of 13, but alas, Hurst has much more writing experience under his belt than that.
I gave it a rating of 2 stars overall because I did gain some enjoyment from it. I liked how relatable some of the characters were, and the fairly basic plot was along the lines of what I was after, I just wish it were executed a lot better.
March 10, 2023
3.5 ⭐
Becky and Jamie are a financially struggling couple. They try their best not to spend too much money and work hard to make ends meet. One day they decide to go on a rare vacation, and that's when they meet the supposedly wealthy and retired couple Phil and Mel. They're very generous and fun but are they really what they seem to be?
The story is very simple and there was really no "plot twist" because we basically know everything from the beginning: how the couple are just cons who steal people's money to make a living and all of that. The pov flips between the four characters and the chapters were short making this an easy read. What I hated the most about this book is the writing. It was AWFUL. And I guess it's something to expect since the author Daniel Hurst writes like 5 books in the same year which means he doesn't take into account the quality of his work and all he cares about is writing more books to gain more money.
Becky and Jamie are a financially struggling couple. They try their best not to spend too much money and work hard to make ends meet. One day they decide to go on a rare vacation, and that's when they meet the supposedly wealthy and retired couple Phil and Mel. They're very generous and fun but are they really what they seem to be?
The story is very simple and there was really no "plot twist" because we basically know everything from the beginning: how the couple are just cons who steal people's money to make a living and all of that. The pov flips between the four characters and the chapters were short making this an easy read. What I hated the most about this book is the writing. It was AWFUL. And I guess it's something to expect since the author Daniel Hurst writes like 5 books in the same year which means he doesn't take into account the quality of his work and all he cares about is writing more books to gain more money.
December 18, 2021
I didn't like this book. It's so repetitive that it borders on obsession. Everything gets repeated over and over again. Everything is explained as if readers are considered of very low intelligence, with no possibility of drawing their own conclusions... Also the characters all "sound" the same (It is told from 4 points of view so the reader actually knows what is going to happen all the time.) so sometimes it is impossible to distinguish who is talking. Also that's why a lot of stuff gets repeated again and again.
And when Jamie was so unsure what to text back to Phil when he wanted to meet him, it was like he was asking a girl for a date!!! Seriously??? It's not very likely that I'll read another book by this author.
And when Jamie was so unsure what to text back to Phil when he wanted to meet him, it was like he was asking a girl for a date!!! Seriously??? It's not very likely that I'll read another book by this author.
November 13, 2023
This was a quick and fun read but lacked suspense. The story is more about revenge than hidden twists.
September 29, 2022
This is the first book by Daniel Hurst I have read and I was not disappointed. Whilst I had read the premise to begin with and it sounded intriguing, sometimes it doesn't always live up to the hype. But in this case, I'm glad to say that it most certainly did. Oh my goodness, it was a fast paced thriller of a different kind that held my attention throughout.
It's been said that if it's too good to be true then it usually is. Such is the case in this gripping thriller THE NEW FRIENDS.
Thirtysomething couple Becky and Jamie have been married for ten years and after the daily grind of everyday life, they decided they deserved a short holiday abroad in Spain for five days, post-peak season for a cheaper rate. Becky is a teaching assistant and Jamie is a warehouse worker and while they are not flush with money, the both earn a modest income. This holiday comes as a well-earned and well-deserved break for the couple as they lap up the sunshine before heading back to the bleak and miserable British weather of northern England. Five days of pretending they can afford holidays like these more often than not before returning to the daily grind.
On their last night in Spain, Jamie begs Becky for a night out in town before flying out in the morning and while she was reluctant to spend their last one hundred euros on extravagances they could barely afford, Becky agreed that it would be nice to treat themselves. How they would live to regret that last night out to come...
They instantly attract the attention of another couple, Phil and Mel, seemingly on holiday and the foursome soon strike up a conversation together sharing in the champagne that Phil has flowing on tap. The couples click immediately and before the night is over, they exchange phone numbers and plans to keep in touch upon returning to England.
Before they have even touched down in Britain, Jamie is languishing over the stories Phil regaled them with of their lavish lifestyle all over the world. Somehow his modest warehousing job seems to pale in significance and despite his stash of secret savings he's set aside for when they start a family, Jamie cannot help but be a little envious that he has to return to a mundane job to earn a modest living while their new friends have all but retired and live a life of luxury...all because of some wise investments Phil had made when working in the finance world.
It isn't long before a message from Phil stirs that longing in Jamie once again and soon they organise a weekend get together at their modest home where they will play host to their new friends. As soon as Phil and Mel arrive, Jamie and Becky cannot help but notice the stylish sports car they have arrived in...and compare it to their outdated barely roadworthy car. But Phil is quick to reassure Jamie that he has a good life with a beautiful wife in a lovely house.
Over dinner as Phil regales them with stories of his time in the finance world, Jamie and Becky cannot help but be seduced by the lavish lifestyle their new friends appear to enjoy in their early retirement. And while he was always happy with what they had before, now that they have seen how the other half live, that is Phil and Mel, Jamie wants a taste of that too. I mean, who wants to work hard for such little reward? That opportunity comes when Phil invites Jamie out for a sneaky cigar.
Excited by the ideas flowing through his mind, Jamie cannot wait to share them with Becky but is deflated when she doesn't seem to share his excitement. In fact, Becky is reluctant to take the step that could lead them down the same path as Phil and Mel. It's risky, but the higher the risk the higher the return, right? Becky's not so sure. Especially as Mel didn't appear to be very happy and she isn't sure that all is as rosy as Phil claims.
If only they knew...
The new friends the young couple made on their modest holiday aren't who they thought they were.
Phil and Mel are accomplished at what they do so when they spot Jamie and Becky, a couple of modest means with ambitious dreams, the deceptive couple soon insinuate themselves into Becky and Jamie's lives just long enough to relinquish them of their hard earned savings...every last penny. Mission accomplished.
THE NEW FRIENDS is a dark and suspenseful read with a disturbing truth woven into its plot. Just how easily it is to fall under the spell of seemingly genuine "friends" and while Becky and Jamie may seem a little naive, I think its safe to say that the onus is on those pulling the con and how incredibly clever they are. Otherwise they wouldn't get away with what they do, would they?
What I especially love about this book, besides its steady pace throughout and its engaging style, is the fact that we get the story from the perspectives of all four players - Becky, Jamie, Phil and Mel. And although we are privy to the con from the onset it doesn't detract the level of heartpounding tension that fills us as we devour every last scrap of the story. The way it is written we are meant to sympathise not only with Becky and Jamie but also Mel...and it is cleverly done.
THE NEW FRIENDS moves along at such a steady pace that it is indeed a quick read that I could have easily devoured in one sitting...had it not been for the need to sleep in between. I was so absorbed in the story I just couldn't wait to see how it all panned out.
THE NEW FRIENDS is such a unique thriller I cannot compare it to any other, but if you like your thrillers different, pacy and engaging then give this one a go!
I would like to thank #DanielHurst, #Netgalley, #InkubatorBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #TheNewFriends in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
It's been said that if it's too good to be true then it usually is. Such is the case in this gripping thriller THE NEW FRIENDS.
Thirtysomething couple Becky and Jamie have been married for ten years and after the daily grind of everyday life, they decided they deserved a short holiday abroad in Spain for five days, post-peak season for a cheaper rate. Becky is a teaching assistant and Jamie is a warehouse worker and while they are not flush with money, the both earn a modest income. This holiday comes as a well-earned and well-deserved break for the couple as they lap up the sunshine before heading back to the bleak and miserable British weather of northern England. Five days of pretending they can afford holidays like these more often than not before returning to the daily grind.
On their last night in Spain, Jamie begs Becky for a night out in town before flying out in the morning and while she was reluctant to spend their last one hundred euros on extravagances they could barely afford, Becky agreed that it would be nice to treat themselves. How they would live to regret that last night out to come...
They instantly attract the attention of another couple, Phil and Mel, seemingly on holiday and the foursome soon strike up a conversation together sharing in the champagne that Phil has flowing on tap. The couples click immediately and before the night is over, they exchange phone numbers and plans to keep in touch upon returning to England.
Before they have even touched down in Britain, Jamie is languishing over the stories Phil regaled them with of their lavish lifestyle all over the world. Somehow his modest warehousing job seems to pale in significance and despite his stash of secret savings he's set aside for when they start a family, Jamie cannot help but be a little envious that he has to return to a mundane job to earn a modest living while their new friends have all but retired and live a life of luxury...all because of some wise investments Phil had made when working in the finance world.
It isn't long before a message from Phil stirs that longing in Jamie once again and soon they organise a weekend get together at their modest home where they will play host to their new friends. As soon as Phil and Mel arrive, Jamie and Becky cannot help but notice the stylish sports car they have arrived in...and compare it to their outdated barely roadworthy car. But Phil is quick to reassure Jamie that he has a good life with a beautiful wife in a lovely house.
Over dinner as Phil regales them with stories of his time in the finance world, Jamie and Becky cannot help but be seduced by the lavish lifestyle their new friends appear to enjoy in their early retirement. And while he was always happy with what they had before, now that they have seen how the other half live, that is Phil and Mel, Jamie wants a taste of that too. I mean, who wants to work hard for such little reward? That opportunity comes when Phil invites Jamie out for a sneaky cigar.
Excited by the ideas flowing through his mind, Jamie cannot wait to share them with Becky but is deflated when she doesn't seem to share his excitement. In fact, Becky is reluctant to take the step that could lead them down the same path as Phil and Mel. It's risky, but the higher the risk the higher the return, right? Becky's not so sure. Especially as Mel didn't appear to be very happy and she isn't sure that all is as rosy as Phil claims.
If only they knew...
The new friends the young couple made on their modest holiday aren't who they thought they were.
Phil and Mel are accomplished at what they do so when they spot Jamie and Becky, a couple of modest means with ambitious dreams, the deceptive couple soon insinuate themselves into Becky and Jamie's lives just long enough to relinquish them of their hard earned savings...every last penny. Mission accomplished.
THE NEW FRIENDS is a dark and suspenseful read with a disturbing truth woven into its plot. Just how easily it is to fall under the spell of seemingly genuine "friends" and while Becky and Jamie may seem a little naive, I think its safe to say that the onus is on those pulling the con and how incredibly clever they are. Otherwise they wouldn't get away with what they do, would they?
What I especially love about this book, besides its steady pace throughout and its engaging style, is the fact that we get the story from the perspectives of all four players - Becky, Jamie, Phil and Mel. And although we are privy to the con from the onset it doesn't detract the level of heartpounding tension that fills us as we devour every last scrap of the story. The way it is written we are meant to sympathise not only with Becky and Jamie but also Mel...and it is cleverly done.
THE NEW FRIENDS moves along at such a steady pace that it is indeed a quick read that I could have easily devoured in one sitting...had it not been for the need to sleep in between. I was so absorbed in the story I just couldn't wait to see how it all panned out.
THE NEW FRIENDS is such a unique thriller I cannot compare it to any other, but if you like your thrillers different, pacy and engaging then give this one a go!
I would like to thank #DanielHurst, #Netgalley, #InkubatorBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #TheNewFriends in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
December 11, 2021
I expected a rollicking, sinister mystery about psychotic new friends who wreak havoc in the lives of an unsuspecting couple, but unfortunately, this was not that.
The plot is fairly simple. Becky and Jamie live a simple life in a small town in England. They go to Spain on a budget holiday, and meet another British couple there. Jamie is enamored by their lifestyle, and wants to know how he too can get in on some of the action and make a ton of money.
When they get back, they invite the rich couple, Phil and Mel, to their place where Phil convinces Jamie to invest money with him. Soon enough they find out that Phil and Mel are not what they seem, and their money might be gone forever.
They receive help from unexpected quarters to catch Phil, but will that be enough to get their money back, and make the conman pay for his crimes?
This story had a lot of potential for intrigue and edge-of-the-seat moments, but unfortunately, it was too flat and simple- the writing, as well as the plot.
The characters were very one-dimensional, and there were a few times when the twists and turns (if you can even call them that) were too convenient. A story like this requires more crises, in my opinion.
Why, for instance, does Mel behave like this particular couple is the best thing since sliced bread? There's nothing special or intriguing about them, and yet Mel is willing to go all out for them. Some things just don't add up and are not convincing at all.
Overall, this book felt very 'flat' to me, and I ended up giving it 2.5 stars.
Thanks to Inkubator Books and Netgalley for a free review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The plot is fairly simple. Becky and Jamie live a simple life in a small town in England. They go to Spain on a budget holiday, and meet another British couple there. Jamie is enamored by their lifestyle, and wants to know how he too can get in on some of the action and make a ton of money.
When they get back, they invite the rich couple, Phil and Mel, to their place where Phil convinces Jamie to invest money with him. Soon enough they find out that Phil and Mel are not what they seem, and their money might be gone forever.
They receive help from unexpected quarters to catch Phil, but will that be enough to get their money back, and make the conman pay for his crimes?
This story had a lot of potential for intrigue and edge-of-the-seat moments, but unfortunately, it was too flat and simple- the writing, as well as the plot.
The characters were very one-dimensional, and there were a few times when the twists and turns (if you can even call them that) were too convenient. A story like this requires more crises, in my opinion.
Why, for instance, does Mel behave like this particular couple is the best thing since sliced bread? There's nothing special or intriguing about them, and yet Mel is willing to go all out for them. Some things just don't add up and are not convincing at all.
Overall, this book felt very 'flat' to me, and I ended up giving it 2.5 stars.
Thanks to Inkubator Books and Netgalley for a free review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 12, 2022
Already, because of the title, the reader may guess that there’s something wrong with these new friends. And yes, there is. Phil and Mel befriend Becky and Jamie during a short holiday under the Spanish sun but they are leaving dark clouds over Becky and Jamie’s life in the days after.
It was not a bad book, perfect for a quick holiday read (sun or no sun) but it lacked depth in the story and the characters. Jamie is complaining about his low-paid job at the warehouse but we never learn why he’s taken it or why he cannot go an find a better job. He and Becky are basically rather dumb people who are stuck in their lives at a young age. Although Mel and Phil are the enemies here, they are more ‘likable’ because they actually found a way to make more money, while travelling around sunny holiday destinations. I absolute think they are bad people, but not as irritating as Becky and Jamie.
I’ve read several books by Daniel Hurst now and I know he can do better than with this one. He’s a writer full of ideas and I hope that in time he will give us books with more depth and suspension.
It was not a bad book, perfect for a quick holiday read (sun or no sun) but it lacked depth in the story and the characters. Jamie is complaining about his low-paid job at the warehouse but we never learn why he’s taken it or why he cannot go an find a better job. He and Becky are basically rather dumb people who are stuck in their lives at a young age. Although Mel and Phil are the enemies here, they are more ‘likable’ because they actually found a way to make more money, while travelling around sunny holiday destinations. I absolute think they are bad people, but not as irritating as Becky and Jamie.
I’ve read several books by Daniel Hurst now and I know he can do better than with this one. He’s a writer full of ideas and I hope that in time he will give us books with more depth and suspension.
February 15, 2025
This was the final Daniel Hurst book in the 4-volume boxed thriller set from Kindle Unlimited. It's pretty clear what will happen to Becky and Jamie when they befriend a pair of charming con artists while vacationing in Spain. The question is how they will react after the inevitable happens. Will they allow the scam to destroy their marriage, or will they seek revenge and retribution? I did like the premise but felt that the ending was a little too convenient and predictable. Not really a thriller, but still entertaining.
January 3, 2022
Becky and Jamie are a young married couple enjoying a few nights away in a cheap resort in Spain when they meet the wealthy and alluring couple Phil and Mel. The new friendship blossoms with all parties enjoying one another’s company again once they come back to northern England. Phil and Mel are not what they seem and before Becky and Jamie have time to realise what is happening they are handing over their life savings.
Good storyline with a good plot.
Good storyline with a good plot.
December 8, 2021
Daniel Hurst releases a new thriller almost every month with new ideas, new excitement. He’s become one of my favorite writers, I know I can not be disappointed when I take his book off the shelf.
In stories like this, we usually cheer for the rogue, but in this book, we’re excited they catch the swindler who wins his worthy punishment. I think there would have been an easier way to do this than described in the book, but the story had to be a little complicated to make it even more exciting and enjoyable. I did find the protagonists a little naive, even though I have been deceived by scammers already as well.
Despite the above, I felt the story was a bit average, as if it was important for the writer to write as many so books as possible that would be published, and not to write a really great thriller instead. These books are fun, I get excited and smile as I read them, but none of them leave a lasting impression on me, I forget about them the next day. Yet I feel he has the knowledge and ability to write a book that would put him at the forefront of bestseller writers.
In stories like this, we usually cheer for the rogue, but in this book, we’re excited they catch the swindler who wins his worthy punishment. I think there would have been an easier way to do this than described in the book, but the story had to be a little complicated to make it even more exciting and enjoyable. I did find the protagonists a little naive, even though I have been deceived by scammers already as well.
Despite the above, I felt the story was a bit average, as if it was important for the writer to write as many so books as possible that would be published, and not to write a really great thriller instead. These books are fun, I get excited and smile as I read them, but none of them leave a lasting impression on me, I forget about them the next day. Yet I feel he has the knowledge and ability to write a book that would put him at the forefront of bestseller writers.
November 21, 2022
This is the third book I have read by Daniel Hurst and now I’m officially a fan! This novel had me hooked from the beginning and held my interest all the way to the end. The storyline was unique and kept me guessing. Some parts were predictable but I throughly enjoyed the ride to the conclusion. It’s a quick and entertaining read!
January 7, 2022
We all want more. More money. More time. More energy.
Becky, Jamie, Mel and Phil are no different. They all want more out of life. Mel wants to have genuine friends. Phil wants more thrills. Jamie wants more money. Becky wants a family. When they realize that they can use each other to get what they want, they begin a dangerous journey. As you can suspect, somebody wins and somebody loses. Who will it be?
This is no random vacation friendship. Mel and Phil have set their sights on their next victims. They carefully seduce Becky and Jamie with the promise of an easier life. By the time the new friends realize what’s happened, they’ve lost everything.
An extremely well-structured psychological thriller, The New Friends is told from four different points of view – Becky, Jamie, Mel and Phil. You would think that it would be choppy and repetitive, but it isn’t! In fact, it enables readers to see into the minds of the two couples and understand what drives them.
Readers know about the con from the synopsis, and you would think that it would ruin the plot. It didn’t! It actually kept me invested in the story because I was able to focus on the interaction between Mel and Phil and have a front row seat to their scheme in action.
“It felt like they weren’t just possible friends we could meet every now and again for nibbles and drinks. It felt as if they were people who could change our lives. They had such an energy to them.”
I think what appeals to me is that it’s an ordinary couple who get conned by a simple scheme – it could be any of us. Phil was conniving, slimy and knew exactly how to play into Jamie and Becky’s psyche/self esteem. One of the tools Phil used was appealing to their sense of fun. He knew this young couple worked hard to get where they were and knew that what they wanted was just out of their grasp. Bogged down with their jobs and payments, they couldn’t afford fun. Phil lured them. Another tool he used was to appeal to their recent memories of carefree youth. He knew that with marriage and the prospect of starting a family, obligations took precedence. Phil lured them with his vibrant lifestyle and positive outlook – both waning in Becky and Jamie. Be careful next time to start up a conversation with a stranger – they may not be who they pretend to be.
Known for writing fast-paced psychological thrillers about unusual things happening to normal people, Hurst has definitely lived up to his reputation.
I was gifted this copy by Daniel Hurst, Inkubator Books, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Becky, Jamie, Mel and Phil are no different. They all want more out of life. Mel wants to have genuine friends. Phil wants more thrills. Jamie wants more money. Becky wants a family. When they realize that they can use each other to get what they want, they begin a dangerous journey. As you can suspect, somebody wins and somebody loses. Who will it be?
This is no random vacation friendship. Mel and Phil have set their sights on their next victims. They carefully seduce Becky and Jamie with the promise of an easier life. By the time the new friends realize what’s happened, they’ve lost everything.
An extremely well-structured psychological thriller, The New Friends is told from four different points of view – Becky, Jamie, Mel and Phil. You would think that it would be choppy and repetitive, but it isn’t! In fact, it enables readers to see into the minds of the two couples and understand what drives them.
Readers know about the con from the synopsis, and you would think that it would ruin the plot. It didn’t! It actually kept me invested in the story because I was able to focus on the interaction between Mel and Phil and have a front row seat to their scheme in action.
“It felt like they weren’t just possible friends we could meet every now and again for nibbles and drinks. It felt as if they were people who could change our lives. They had such an energy to them.”
I think what appeals to me is that it’s an ordinary couple who get conned by a simple scheme – it could be any of us. Phil was conniving, slimy and knew exactly how to play into Jamie and Becky’s psyche/self esteem. One of the tools Phil used was appealing to their sense of fun. He knew this young couple worked hard to get where they were and knew that what they wanted was just out of their grasp. Bogged down with their jobs and payments, they couldn’t afford fun. Phil lured them. Another tool he used was to appeal to their recent memories of carefree youth. He knew that with marriage and the prospect of starting a family, obligations took precedence. Phil lured them with his vibrant lifestyle and positive outlook – both waning in Becky and Jamie. Be careful next time to start up a conversation with a stranger – they may not be who they pretend to be.
Known for writing fast-paced psychological thrillers about unusual things happening to normal people, Hurst has definitely lived up to his reputation.
I was gifted this copy by Daniel Hurst, Inkubator Books, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 3, 2022
Great, now when I go on vacation I'm going to be overly suspicious of everyone that speaks to me!
This was a slightly predictable fast paced thriller - even though it was very clear from the 4 person POV where the story was going I still enjoyed the overall plot. Some parts were repetitive, but I appreciated the transparency of seeing the scam play out from both sides.
As some other reviews have pointed out the writing style wasn't the most eloquent or descriptive but personally I'm OK with that. I tend to care more about the meat of what's going on in the story and less about what color shirt a character is wearing.
Bottom line if you're looking to be mind blown, this isn't for you. But if you want to be entertained or you're someone who can lose interest in a book with too many details - this is for you.
Thanks to Inkubator Books and Netgalley for a free review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was a slightly predictable fast paced thriller - even though it was very clear from the 4 person POV where the story was going I still enjoyed the overall plot. Some parts were repetitive, but I appreciated the transparency of seeing the scam play out from both sides.
As some other reviews have pointed out the writing style wasn't the most eloquent or descriptive but personally I'm OK with that. I tend to care more about the meat of what's going on in the story and less about what color shirt a character is wearing.
Bottom line if you're looking to be mind blown, this isn't for you. But if you want to be entertained or you're someone who can lose interest in a book with too many details - this is for you.
Thanks to Inkubator Books and Netgalley for a free review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 6, 2025
ANOTHER FAST PACED PAGE TURNER 💨…
I just love when i settle down for the evening with a Daniel Hurst book, I just know am in for a wild ride.. and this one definitely was!
We are first introduced to Becky and and Jamie, who are adorable 🥰 like many young couples, Becky and Jamie dream for a better life, however, that doesn’t stop them from going on cheap all inclusive holidays to Spain 🇪🇸
Jamie has been setting aside some money, for when they decide to have a family of their own, so Becky doesn’t need to worry about any finances 💰
Becky and Jamie quickly befriend another couple who are also on holiday, Phil and Mel. Jamie is quickly drawn into Phil and interested on how he is managing to earn so much money he will be about to retire soon! It’s like a dream for Jamie when Phil shares all his secrets… however, it quickly becomes known to the reader that Phil isn’t all that it seems.. 😬😬
Daniel is the master of twists! I really enjoyed reading this one, to see how it was all going to connect together, it was very well thought through!
I absolutely loved the ending 💕✨
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I just love when i settle down for the evening with a Daniel Hurst book, I just know am in for a wild ride.. and this one definitely was!
We are first introduced to Becky and and Jamie, who are adorable 🥰 like many young couples, Becky and Jamie dream for a better life, however, that doesn’t stop them from going on cheap all inclusive holidays to Spain 🇪🇸
Jamie has been setting aside some money, for when they decide to have a family of their own, so Becky doesn’t need to worry about any finances 💰
Becky and Jamie quickly befriend another couple who are also on holiday, Phil and Mel. Jamie is quickly drawn into Phil and interested on how he is managing to earn so much money he will be about to retire soon! It’s like a dream for Jamie when Phil shares all his secrets… however, it quickly becomes known to the reader that Phil isn’t all that it seems.. 😬😬
Daniel is the master of twists! I really enjoyed reading this one, to see how it was all going to connect together, it was very well thought through!
I absolutely loved the ending 💕✨
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
February 6, 2024
don't waste your time...
Synopsis: Becky and Jamie are a hard-working couple trapped in the daily grind, dreaming of an easier life. On one of their rare vacations, they meet a wealthy couple, Phil and Mel, who seem to have it all – they are fun, well traveled and very generous with their money. But Phil and Mel are not who they say they are. And this is no random vacation friendship, they have chosen Jamie and Becky carefully, seducing them with the promise of a lifestyle just like theirs. By the time Jamie and Becky realise what their new friends really want, it’s too late, they’ve lost everything, their hopes and dreams lie shattered. The only question now is how far will they go to get even?
I don't like leaving really bad reviews but I just found myself so shocked at how BAD this book was?
Without spoiling the plot, this was a con-artist type thriller which is normally so intruiging to me, but every single time I felt that there could've been a clever twist or turn, it was just flat. I was bored throughout the entirety of the book and couldn't wait for it to finish.
The story felt even more very flat through its lack of descriptive language. Becky would cook 'a delicious meal' ... Tell me what you ate Becky! She then proceeded to collect Jamie from his 'place of work' where he only earns a small amount... tell me where he works?! Considering lack of money was the backbone of the story, I knew NOTHING about their jobs, lifestyles, anything! How can I care about a story when I cannot visualise anything in it?
I felt like this book was written as if people do not understand anything. The painful under description of core plot points and then the over description of trivial sentences such as "I went to wash my hands... to make sure that they are clean" made me feel quite stupid and I found myself saying aloud "obviously?"
I hate to give such a negative review but I wasted 9 hours listening to this book. I have read other books by Hurst and enjoyed them, so this one really disappointed me.
Synopsis: Becky and Jamie are a hard-working couple trapped in the daily grind, dreaming of an easier life. On one of their rare vacations, they meet a wealthy couple, Phil and Mel, who seem to have it all – they are fun, well traveled and very generous with their money. But Phil and Mel are not who they say they are. And this is no random vacation friendship, they have chosen Jamie and Becky carefully, seducing them with the promise of a lifestyle just like theirs. By the time Jamie and Becky realise what their new friends really want, it’s too late, they’ve lost everything, their hopes and dreams lie shattered. The only question now is how far will they go to get even?
I don't like leaving really bad reviews but I just found myself so shocked at how BAD this book was?
Without spoiling the plot, this was a con-artist type thriller which is normally so intruiging to me, but every single time I felt that there could've been a clever twist or turn, it was just flat. I was bored throughout the entirety of the book and couldn't wait for it to finish.
The story felt even more very flat through its lack of descriptive language. Becky would cook 'a delicious meal' ... Tell me what you ate Becky! She then proceeded to collect Jamie from his 'place of work' where he only earns a small amount... tell me where he works?! Considering lack of money was the backbone of the story, I knew NOTHING about their jobs, lifestyles, anything! How can I care about a story when I cannot visualise anything in it?
I felt like this book was written as if people do not understand anything. The painful under description of core plot points and then the over description of trivial sentences such as "I went to wash my hands... to make sure that they are clean" made me feel quite stupid and I found myself saying aloud "obviously?"
I hate to give such a negative review but I wasted 9 hours listening to this book. I have read other books by Hurst and enjoyed them, so this one really disappointed me.
January 18, 2022
Thank you for the ARC through NetGalley.
This is a straightforward but enjoyable domestic noir novel. Jamie and Becky, an unremarkable couple from the North of England with average jobs and an average life are holidaying in Spain when they meet the sophisticated (and rich) Mel and Phil. They believe they have made new friends, but instead they’ve fallen into a whole heap of trouble.
In general I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and I got through it in a couple of hours. If you’re looking for an interesting page-turner with a splash of mystery and suspense I recommend. There’s not a huge amount of “thriller” to the book, but that shouldn’t put you off. It’s a decent novel, the first I’ve read from the author. I expect I will read more.
This is a straightforward but enjoyable domestic noir novel. Jamie and Becky, an unremarkable couple from the North of England with average jobs and an average life are holidaying in Spain when they meet the sophisticated (and rich) Mel and Phil. They believe they have made new friends, but instead they’ve fallen into a whole heap of trouble.
In general I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and I got through it in a couple of hours. If you’re looking for an interesting page-turner with a splash of mystery and suspense I recommend. There’s not a huge amount of “thriller” to the book, but that shouldn’t put you off. It’s a decent novel, the first I’ve read from the author. I expect I will read more.
March 7, 2022
The premise was good, and I enjoyed the storyline (although some of the ‘twists’ were obvious and unrealistic) but the writing was awful! It was very amateur, the description was both over the top but somehow basic at the same time. Overused synonyms (‘the homeowners’ used to describe Becky & Jamie was very jarring) combined with repetitive internal monologues and the complete lack of description when it was actually needed just left me in a bad mood. And there was no character development, they were all totally unlikeable and one dimensional. I skim read the last 40% of the book.
Overall, a good idea but terribly executed. This is the first book I’ve read by Daniel Hurst, but on the back of this I won’t be reading any more!
Overall, a good idea but terribly executed. This is the first book I’ve read by Daniel Hurst, but on the back of this I won’t be reading any more!
January 21, 2023
This book is a quick, easy read by Hurst. It is about a couple who scams other couples out of money and the ensuing results that occur when one of the scammers gets tired of the game. There are no twists or big reveals, but if you want a relaxing read, you might give it a go. It is not one of my favorites by Hurst, but it still held my interest.
October 22, 2024
Not “gripping” at all. The whole book was rather predictable and even less exciting. The majority of the time reading it I just couldn’t wait for it to be over. But I always finish a book I start. So there you have it, 2 stars.
February 7, 2025
The synopsis makes the book sound much more interesting than it is. It’s not a psychological thriller more of a dull con. I wouldn’t waste time on this one.
November 30, 2025
A little repetitive, but it never lost my interest and wasn't too long so I can't complain. I've been wanting to read this one for a long time and finally got around to it.
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