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The New Girl
I thought I could escape my past. I was wrong…
When I moved to a city where no one knew me, clutching only a small bag of possessions, I really believed that I had left my old life—and my darkest secret— behind.
Within weeks, I landed my dream job, a gorgeous flat and the perfect boyfriend in James. For the first time in years, with him, I started to feel I could finally trust people again. I began to feel safe.
But now strange things have started to happen. Odd noises in the night, the constant feeling that someone is lingering at my door. James convinces me that I’m imagining things. But when I find a beautiful dress hidden behind the wardrobe and wear it to work, the atmosphere chills instantly. I can’t help but wonder, is there something, or someone they’re hiding from me?
Then she appears at my door. The girl before me. She tells me that I need to leave; that the new life I thought I’d built for myself is all a twisted trap…
And my whole world tilts… because if what she says is true, what’s going to happen to me?
When I moved to a city where no one knew me, clutching only a small bag of possessions, I really believed that I had left my old life—and my darkest secret— behind.
Within weeks, I landed my dream job, a gorgeous flat and the perfect boyfriend in James. For the first time in years, with him, I started to feel I could finally trust people again. I began to feel safe.
But now strange things have started to happen. Odd noises in the night, the constant feeling that someone is lingering at my door. James convinces me that I’m imagining things. But when I find a beautiful dress hidden behind the wardrobe and wear it to work, the atmosphere chills instantly. I can’t help but wonder, is there something, or someone they’re hiding from me?
Then she appears at my door. The girl before me. She tells me that I need to leave; that the new life I thought I’d built for myself is all a twisted trap…
And my whole world tilts… because if what she says is true, what’s going to happen to me?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2022
2002 people are currently reading
937 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Heald
20 books274 followersRuth Heald is a bestselling author of psychological thrillers. Her books include The Nanny, The New Girl, The Wedding, I Know Your Secret, The Mother's Mistake and The Woman Upstairs.
Ruth studied Economics at Oxford University and then worked in an eclectic mix of sectors from nuclear decommissioning to management consulting. She worked at the BBC for nine years before leaving to write full time. Ruth is fascinated by psychology and finding out what drives people to violence, destruction and revenge. She’s married with two children and her novels explore our greatest fears in otherwise ordinary, domestic lives.
You can connect with Ruth on Twitter @RJ_Heald, or Facebook /RJHealdauthor
Ruth studied Economics at Oxford University and then worked in an eclectic mix of sectors from nuclear decommissioning to management consulting. She worked at the BBC for nine years before leaving to write full time. Ruth is fascinated by psychology and finding out what drives people to violence, destruction and revenge. She’s married with two children and her novels explore our greatest fears in otherwise ordinary, domestic lives.
You can connect with Ruth on Twitter @RJ_Heald, or Facebook /RJHealdauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
January 25, 2022
A new job. A new start in a new city. Sophie can't believe her good fortune! She lands a dream job. With the job, comes a place to live, a credit card to purchase what she needs, new friends, and a chance to have the career she wants. But what if her dream becomes a nightmare?
When it seems too good to be true, maybe it is. Sophie is happy at her job, but soon strange things begin to happen to her, there are strange noises in her flat, and a woman approaches her to warn her about her employer.
This was an entertaining and engaging read. It moved at a nice pace, and I loved trying to figure out what was going on. Poor Sophie, she has endured something horrible in her life, and she deserves a new start. I was rooting for her while doing some super sleuthing. This was pure escapism reading which did not disappoint. I read most of it in one day as I did not want to put it down. There were some twists and turns which made this a fast and engaging read.
Thank you to Bookouture 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
When it seems too good to be true, maybe it is. Sophie is happy at her job, but soon strange things begin to happen to her, there are strange noises in her flat, and a woman approaches her to warn her about her employer.
This was an entertaining and engaging read. It moved at a nice pace, and I loved trying to figure out what was going on. Poor Sophie, she has endured something horrible in her life, and she deserves a new start. I was rooting for her while doing some super sleuthing. This was pure escapism reading which did not disappoint. I read most of it in one day as I did not want to put it down. There were some twists and turns which made this a fast and engaging read.
Thank you to Bookouture 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
April 13, 2022
This is the perfect remedy for any reading slump. It kept me guessing throughout the story, never knowing which way it would go. The plot is fast paced with a feeling of uneasy tension that leads to the very surprising and satisfying conclusion. Not only was this thriller suspenseful and extremely entertaining, but inspiring as well. I enjoyed the twists that kept me intrigued from start to finish. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 28, 2023
This was sold to me as twisty thriller that would keep me guessing. I spent more time asking myself, “what now?!” than anything else. This boiled down to a tale of a company that had three “new girls” and the reader needed to figure out which one was right. There was too much that didn’t make sense for me to enjoy properly. Or maybe not liking the main character ruined the story for me.
Sophie, the newest “new girl” at an upscale ad agency in London, is eager to prove herself after getting an online degree due to a freshman incident that had her running back home to her childhood sweetheart and family. It’s been a few years, but she’s ready to try and spread her wings again. Her boyfriend wants to settle down in the country. Sophie chooses London without looking back. The strength of her boyfriend that she clung to when vulnerable is now seen as a threat. He does not take her news well.
This reader didn’t either. We ALL know there is something off about the job offer because they’ve gone through two other girls in less than a year and is warned to stay away from the male co-owner of this small family run firm. Hmmm. The company expects you to work long hours and every day of the week. But hey, co-workers seem cool and this creepy apartment building nearby is where you can live for free! Prime London real estate for free? Yep, the company bought it as an investment and it’s a new employee perk. Never mind the odd smell or the rest of the apartments being empty...
Sophie worries about a lot of things but decides mooning over the cute guy at work for 10-12 hours before heading to the pub to drink herself into a stupor is the best way to go forward. It’s not her fault if she gets drunk every night because people keep topping up her glass. How is she supposed to keep track? How is this a real question?! Then there’s the sexy dress found behind the dresser that she wears to the office for a meeting with new clients. I found Sophie to be immature, and the back and forth of Sophie's inner dialogue was mind-numbing at points.
Perhaps the pressure has gotten to Sophie? Her former boyfriend keeps showing up unannounced, she needs to perform well at her job while under probation, and the police have followed her to London to ask about the University incident. Another female has come forward with a complaint. How the police do not figure out the connection between Sophie and this other female is beyond belief.
When a random woman gives Sophie dire warnings about the company and the people in it, Sophie immediately goes to those same people and their response would have raised flags.
One new girl goes missing after poor work performance/bad break-up. Another new girl shouts end-of-days warnings after a bad break-up. Wait a minute. . . .
Nothing about this story made sense to me. Sophie spends most of it worrying about her reputation, but her actions do not back this up. Who thinks asking co-workers to fill in the gaps of black-outs due to drinking is a good idea?
Also, let's not forget the continuous scandals of the owners’ father who bankrolls the ad agency. Doesn't every business owner face false sexual harassment claims made by much younger women looking to make an easy buck? Constantly? But yeah, sign me up for the annual trip with THAT family to a secluded private estate for the top salesmen and select clients. Not that Sophie fits either category. She's going anyway, just because.
The coveted trip was where it goes totally haywire. It stopped trying to make even half-sense and went for over-the-top impact. Sophie needs to land a new client at this shindig. Or else. This is when all the characters come into play and start twisting. It’s one crazy night where survival goes to the winners. Sophie better decide who she can trust because her life could depend on it. I might have been rooting against Sophie at this point.
Overall, the plot was too bonkers (and not in a good way) and predictable for this reader. Plus, the main character annoyed me. A lot. I'm not even gonna touch the ending. Maybe book clubs could use this book as a summer pick? There’s plenty to discuss - dating co-workers, work party etiquette, campus safety, two justice systems, how women are stereotyped and more. Compliments to the author for having a sexy heroine that was a size 10, though.
Sophie, the newest “new girl” at an upscale ad agency in London, is eager to prove herself after getting an online degree due to a freshman incident that had her running back home to her childhood sweetheart and family. It’s been a few years, but she’s ready to try and spread her wings again. Her boyfriend wants to settle down in the country. Sophie chooses London without looking back. The strength of her boyfriend that she clung to when vulnerable is now seen as a threat. He does not take her news well.
This reader didn’t either. We ALL know there is something off about the job offer because they’ve gone through two other girls in less than a year and is warned to stay away from the male co-owner of this small family run firm. Hmmm. The company expects you to work long hours and every day of the week. But hey, co-workers seem cool and this creepy apartment building nearby is where you can live for free! Prime London real estate for free? Yep, the company bought it as an investment and it’s a new employee perk. Never mind the odd smell or the rest of the apartments being empty...
Sophie worries about a lot of things but decides mooning over the cute guy at work for 10-12 hours before heading to the pub to drink herself into a stupor is the best way to go forward. It’s not her fault if she gets drunk every night because people keep topping up her glass. How is she supposed to keep track? How is this a real question?! Then there’s the sexy dress found behind the dresser that she wears to the office for a meeting with new clients. I found Sophie to be immature, and the back and forth of Sophie's inner dialogue was mind-numbing at points.
Perhaps the pressure has gotten to Sophie? Her former boyfriend keeps showing up unannounced, she needs to perform well at her job while under probation, and the police have followed her to London to ask about the University incident. Another female has come forward with a complaint. How the police do not figure out the connection between Sophie and this other female is beyond belief.
When a random woman gives Sophie dire warnings about the company and the people in it, Sophie immediately goes to those same people and their response would have raised flags.
One new girl goes missing after poor work performance/bad break-up. Another new girl shouts end-of-days warnings after a bad break-up. Wait a minute. . . .
Nothing about this story made sense to me. Sophie spends most of it worrying about her reputation, but her actions do not back this up. Who thinks asking co-workers to fill in the gaps of black-outs due to drinking is a good idea?
Also, let's not forget the continuous scandals of the owners’ father who bankrolls the ad agency. Doesn't every business owner face false sexual harassment claims made by much younger women looking to make an easy buck? Constantly? But yeah, sign me up for the annual trip with THAT family to a secluded private estate for the top salesmen and select clients. Not that Sophie fits either category. She's going anyway, just because.
The coveted trip was where it goes totally haywire. It stopped trying to make even half-sense and went for over-the-top impact. Sophie needs to land a new client at this shindig. Or else. This is when all the characters come into play and start twisting. It’s one crazy night where survival goes to the winners. Sophie better decide who she can trust because her life could depend on it. I might have been rooting against Sophie at this point.
Overall, the plot was too bonkers (and not in a good way) and predictable for this reader. Plus, the main character annoyed me. A lot. I'm not even gonna touch the ending. Maybe book clubs could use this book as a summer pick? There’s plenty to discuss - dating co-workers, work party etiquette, campus safety, two justice systems, how women are stereotyped and more. Compliments to the author for having a sexy heroine that was a size 10, though.
December 20, 2021
4.5 stars
Sophie feels ready to put her past behind her and decides to move to London in the hopes of finding a job. And as luck would have it, she's offered her dream job at a small family-owned marketing company. Not only would she be paid well, but she'll be given free accommodation at the company's luxurious flats. It's a no brainer to say yes, and within days, Sophie moves into the flat. She quickly immerses herself in her new job, making friends and there's even a potential romance with her handsome co-worker.
Sophie is living the dream or is she? Is Sophie's new life a bit too good to be true?
I loved The Wedding by Ruth Heald, so when I saw she had a new book coming out, I jumped at the chance to read it. The synopsis caught my eye as well. I just love storylines where the main character moves into a new house or apartment and bizarre things start happening. For those two reasons, I was pretty excited to read this book and I was not disappointed. The story flowed really well. Plenty of suspense and shady characters to keep you on the edge of your seat. You can't help but feel a sense of foreboding for Sophie who has already been through so much and seems to have walked right into a dangerous trap.
A really gripping read with a satisfying conclusion.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sophie feels ready to put her past behind her and decides to move to London in the hopes of finding a job. And as luck would have it, she's offered her dream job at a small family-owned marketing company. Not only would she be paid well, but she'll be given free accommodation at the company's luxurious flats. It's a no brainer to say yes, and within days, Sophie moves into the flat. She quickly immerses herself in her new job, making friends and there's even a potential romance with her handsome co-worker.
Sophie is living the dream or is she? Is Sophie's new life a bit too good to be true?
I loved The Wedding by Ruth Heald, so when I saw she had a new book coming out, I jumped at the chance to read it. The synopsis caught my eye as well. I just love storylines where the main character moves into a new house or apartment and bizarre things start happening. For those two reasons, I was pretty excited to read this book and I was not disappointed. The story flowed really well. Plenty of suspense and shady characters to keep you on the edge of your seat. You can't help but feel a sense of foreboding for Sophie who has already been through so much and seems to have walked right into a dangerous trap.
A really gripping read with a satisfying conclusion.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2022
Aye dear Sophie how could you be so naïve, she is offered an amazing job in London, new house in Soho, free clothes, food, drink and furnishings and she never has an inkling of a doubt there is ‘something not right’
But naïve in Sophie’s case does not mean annoying or irritating and the author managed to assuage the ‘no one would believe this’ as she was just so relatable and yes nice, I really liked her and was urging her on as little by little she started to realise all was not as it seemed
There is a back story for Sophie which goes a way to explain her keeness for a new life and to ditch Dorset for the glam life in London and it all ties into the story
Some mean nasty characters and some nice ones to offset this, trouble was ( in a good way ) working out which was which
With an edgy tense ending and a ‘ahhh good’ epilogue made this an enjoyable read where I actually thought ‘ good, I hope Sophie is happy now in her life’ so the character of Sophie certainly made an impression on me!
8/10
4 Stars
But naïve in Sophie’s case does not mean annoying or irritating and the author managed to assuage the ‘no one would believe this’ as she was just so relatable and yes nice, I really liked her and was urging her on as little by little she started to realise all was not as it seemed
There is a back story for Sophie which goes a way to explain her keeness for a new life and to ditch Dorset for the glam life in London and it all ties into the story
Some mean nasty characters and some nice ones to offset this, trouble was ( in a good way ) working out which was which
With an edgy tense ending and a ‘ahhh good’ epilogue made this an enjoyable read where I actually thought ‘ good, I hope Sophie is happy now in her life’ so the character of Sophie certainly made an impression on me!
8/10
4 Stars
January 1, 2022
Behind her dream life hides the perfect nightmare. I couldn't believe it when I got the call to offer me my dream job. It was right in the heart of the city with a flat provided. I jumped at the chance and within days I had made new friends and I'm dating a wonderful man. For the first time in years, I feel safe. It's a world away from the life I ran from.... But soon strange things begin to happen in my flat: odd noises in the night, the feeling that I'm being watched. When I discover an old dress hidden behind my wardrobe, and wear it to work, the atmosphere chills instantly. The dress belonged to a girl my boss would rather forget.
Well I never saw some of the twists coming. The story is a little farfetched, but I don't mind that if the plotline is good. I was quickly pulled into this story and I couldn't put the book down. This is the story of a woman who wants to move on from her past and she's now doing her dream job in London. But nothing is as it seems. Then the police come regarding her past. Is someone watching her? Filled with secrets, weird moments and twists, this is an enjoyable read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RuthHeald for my ARC of #TheNewGirl in exchange for an honest review.
Well I never saw some of the twists coming. The story is a little farfetched, but I don't mind that if the plotline is good. I was quickly pulled into this story and I couldn't put the book down. This is the story of a woman who wants to move on from her past and she's now doing her dream job in London. But nothing is as it seems. Then the police come regarding her past. Is someone watching her? Filled with secrets, weird moments and twists, this is an enjoyable read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #RuthHeald for my ARC of #TheNewGirl in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2021
Such diabolical twists in this one! Sophie has moved to London to start a new life. She's trying to leave her past behind and build her future in the advertising field. She goes to work for a company and makes friends quickly. Then some strange things start happening at her apartment (furnished by the company) and she has some gaps in her memory. Her ex seems to be stalking her. A girl who had her job before contacts her and gives her a warning about the company she is working for and something going on there. Sophie doesn't know who to trust. And as a reader, neither did I! Sophie is definitely not too sharp when it comes to relationships. She seems to ignore some strong warning signs. Lots of tension in this book. Very well written and well plotted. I enjoyed it.
Thanks to Bookouture through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on January 25, 2022.
Thanks to Bookouture through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on January 25, 2022.
April 13, 2022
First thoughts? I loved it. A great read that I just couldn't put down, The story may seem a little unbelievable but this did not decrease my enjoyment. Sophie is trying to build a new life in London and finds herself working for a marketing company that may or may not have trouble lurking that will disrupt her life, you will need to read this to find out. She has debts to her past boyfriend that she racked up due to her fathers ill health and this will cause it own issues as to how she resolves this. I did not see some of the twists coming and that always makes a book a great read for me , I like the unpredictability of a story like this. A truly gripping read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
January 25, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The New Girl' by Ruth Heald.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ruth Heald, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 25th January 2022.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its interesting cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A totally gripping, unputdownable and twisty psychological thriller perfect for fans of The Girl on the Train, Gone Girl and You.
.' I am a fan of 'Gone Girl' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. 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, 54 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are 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 based in Dorset and London, England 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have holidayed in Dorset many times and also visited London recently so I'm looking forward to seeing if I recognise any places named.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Sophie. The benefits of third person perspective 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.
'The New Girl' 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 Ruth discusses/includes sexual assault and several others.
WOW!!! What an absolutely page turning domestic and psychological thriller!!! This is the first book I've read by Ruth but it most definitely won't be the last!!!
I started this in the morning and I couldn't put it down until I finished at 2am!!! Clear your schedules before you pick this up!!
This book is fantastically written with in depth and vivid descriptions that leave you hearing the keyboards typing in the office, feeling the chill in the air and leaves your heart pounding. The cover and synopsis suit the book perfectly.
The storyline is scarily realistic and extremely believable. The fact that Ruth has done her research definitely shines through so a huge congratulations!! There is nothing worse than reading a book which is filled with errors but I didn't find a single one here. The plot exposes the reality of many women, myself included, who have been in everyday situations that many take for granted but then get put into vulnerable positions. In this book Ruth explores many situations that either myself have been in or that I helped others through when I volunteered at victim support. I don't want to say to much as not to spoil it for future readers but some scenarios included being stuck in a job or relationship that may seem perfect on the outside but is completely different on the inside. As Ruth states in the letter at the end of the book 20% of women and 4% of men have experienced sexual violence since the age of 16 and the conviction rate is just 6%. However, these are only the recorded figures of those reports, many go unreported. I truly believe that anyone who reads Ruth's book and has been in any of the situations mentioned will hopefully find the strength to escape from them. I know I have spent alot of time talking about the theme of the book but they are such important subjects that I felt they should be spoken about. I've added all of Ruth's books to my Amazon wish list and as I was reading the synopsis of each I realised the majority of her books are based on everyday vulnerability of woman and I just want to praise Ruth again for choosing to write about them and thank you. Anyway moving on...
The plot is absolutely filled with suspense, twists, shocks, tension, romance, lies, friendship, deceit and so much more, everything you could want in a domestic drama and psychological thriller. I was completely absorbed throughout and it really felt like I was back in London again rediscovering Soho, seeing the Shard and much more. I loved how the book wrapped up and although I would have loved to see more done to certain people Ruth kept the ending realistic to what the outcome would actually be. Throughout the book my heart was pounding and I was filled with a range of emotions from sorrow to anger, disgust to shocked. I was absolutely blown away by the twists and was definitely not expecting them so another HUGE congratulations to Ruth. I have read so many books now it does get harder and harder to surprise me but you definitely managed it. I thought I had it all worked out until BOOM!!! ABSOLUTE BOMB SHELL!! I am looking forward to reading the rest of your books and if they are half as good as this one they are bound to be amazing!!
THIS IS A BOOK THAT SHOULD BE READ, SHARED AND TALKED ABOUT BY EVERYONE!!!
The characters were all strong and well developed. I really connected with Sophie from start to finish both due to us being female and some of the circumstances she was put in have been similar to my own. It is always great seeing strong female leads in books especially those who have not had a perfect life and represent reality. I enjoyed watching her personality develop and change from beginning to end and how she went from strength to strength whereas in other novels by another author she may have crumbled. I won't say anything about any of the other characters as I do not want to give anything away. However, there was a mix of personalities which all worked perfectly for the storyline and proves that what someone may seem like on the outside may be opposite to what their true personalities are.
I want to end my review by stating that if you recognise or relate to any of the subjects discussed in this book please tell a friend, contact the police or speak to victim support. You can even message myself. Please talk to someone. There are people out there who will listen. You are not alone.
CONGRATULATIONS RUTH ON AN ABSOLUTE SUCCESS!! This has got to be one of the most realistic fiction novels I have ever read and thank you for bringing such difficult themes to light in a way that may help many men and women. Welcome to my top author club and here is to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely page turning domestic thriller that will suck you in, keep you turning the pages hooked until you have finished and will blow your mind. Please be aware that it deals with several sensitive subjects and I have inclided a trigger warning.
Genres covered in this book include Psychological Fiction, Mystery, Suspense and Psychological Thriller amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'The Girl on the Train' , 'Gone Girl', 'You', KL Slater, Shalini Boland and anyone looking for a heart racing page turner.
304 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon 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.
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Review for 'The New Girl' by Ruth Heald.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ruth Heald, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 25th January 2022.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its interesting cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A totally gripping, unputdownable and twisty psychological thriller perfect for fans of The Girl on the Train, Gone Girl and You.
.' I am a fan of 'Gone Girl' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. 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, 54 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are 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 based in Dorset and London, England 🏴, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have holidayed in Dorset many times and also visited London recently so I'm looking forward to seeing if I recognise any places named.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Sophie. The benefits of third person perspective 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.
'The New Girl' 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 Ruth discusses/includes sexual assault and several others.
WOW!!! What an absolutely page turning domestic and psychological thriller!!! This is the first book I've read by Ruth but it most definitely won't be the last!!!
I started this in the morning and I couldn't put it down until I finished at 2am!!! Clear your schedules before you pick this up!!
This book is fantastically written with in depth and vivid descriptions that leave you hearing the keyboards typing in the office, feeling the chill in the air and leaves your heart pounding. The cover and synopsis suit the book perfectly.
The storyline is scarily realistic and extremely believable. The fact that Ruth has done her research definitely shines through so a huge congratulations!! There is nothing worse than reading a book which is filled with errors but I didn't find a single one here. The plot exposes the reality of many women, myself included, who have been in everyday situations that many take for granted but then get put into vulnerable positions. In this book Ruth explores many situations that either myself have been in or that I helped others through when I volunteered at victim support. I don't want to say to much as not to spoil it for future readers but some scenarios included being stuck in a job or relationship that may seem perfect on the outside but is completely different on the inside. As Ruth states in the letter at the end of the book 20% of women and 4% of men have experienced sexual violence since the age of 16 and the conviction rate is just 6%. However, these are only the recorded figures of those reports, many go unreported. I truly believe that anyone who reads Ruth's book and has been in any of the situations mentioned will hopefully find the strength to escape from them. I know I have spent alot of time talking about the theme of the book but they are such important subjects that I felt they should be spoken about. I've added all of Ruth's books to my Amazon wish list and as I was reading the synopsis of each I realised the majority of her books are based on everyday vulnerability of woman and I just want to praise Ruth again for choosing to write about them and thank you. Anyway moving on...
The plot is absolutely filled with suspense, twists, shocks, tension, romance, lies, friendship, deceit and so much more, everything you could want in a domestic drama and psychological thriller. I was completely absorbed throughout and it really felt like I was back in London again rediscovering Soho, seeing the Shard and much more. I loved how the book wrapped up and although I would have loved to see more done to certain people Ruth kept the ending realistic to what the outcome would actually be. Throughout the book my heart was pounding and I was filled with a range of emotions from sorrow to anger, disgust to shocked. I was absolutely blown away by the twists and was definitely not expecting them so another HUGE congratulations to Ruth. I have read so many books now it does get harder and harder to surprise me but you definitely managed it. I thought I had it all worked out until BOOM!!! ABSOLUTE BOMB SHELL!! I am looking forward to reading the rest of your books and if they are half as good as this one they are bound to be amazing!!
THIS IS A BOOK THAT SHOULD BE READ, SHARED AND TALKED ABOUT BY EVERYONE!!!
The characters were all strong and well developed. I really connected with Sophie from start to finish both due to us being female and some of the circumstances she was put in have been similar to my own. It is always great seeing strong female leads in books especially those who have not had a perfect life and represent reality. I enjoyed watching her personality develop and change from beginning to end and how she went from strength to strength whereas in other novels by another author she may have crumbled. I won't say anything about any of the other characters as I do not want to give anything away. However, there was a mix of personalities which all worked perfectly for the storyline and proves that what someone may seem like on the outside may be opposite to what their true personalities are.
I want to end my review by stating that if you recognise or relate to any of the subjects discussed in this book please tell a friend, contact the police or speak to victim support. You can even message myself. Please talk to someone. There are people out there who will listen. You are not alone.
CONGRATULATIONS RUTH ON AN ABSOLUTE SUCCESS!! This has got to be one of the most realistic fiction novels I have ever read and thank you for bringing such difficult themes to light in a way that may help many men and women. Welcome to my top author club and here is to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely page turning domestic thriller that will suck you in, keep you turning the pages hooked until you have finished and will blow your mind. Please be aware that it deals with several sensitive subjects and I have inclided a trigger warning.
Genres covered in this book include Psychological Fiction, Mystery, Suspense and Psychological Thriller amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'The Girl on the Train' , 'Gone Girl', 'You', KL Slater, Shalini Boland and anyone looking for a heart racing page turner.
304 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon 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.
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January 21, 2022
★★★ 3.5 stars
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Ruth Heald's exciting new thriller THE NEW GIRL.
I've been a fan of Ruth Heald since her debut domestic thriller "The Mother's Mistake" which is just brilliant from start to finish. So naturally every new release of hers incites an excitement and anticipation of what's to come. This one promises fresh starts and new beginnings for the protagonist who has seen her fair share of ups and downs, not to mention disappointments. Unfortunately, this fresh start isn't what she was expecting.
THE NEW GIRL in this story is Sophie, who had escaped London once before after an incident at university for the safety of home in Dorset. But now she is ready to put the past behind her and move forward...beginning with a job at an ad agency in London. Unfortunately, her boyfriend Charlie doesn't see things in quite the same way. After celebrating ten years since their first kiss at the tender age of fourteen, Charlie springs a surprise on her he is sure she will love.
As he leads her to the cottage by the sea that was once his grandfather's, he proudly announces that he is doing it up for them to settle down and raise a family in. And then he pops the question. Sophie stalls. This isn't what she wants and she flees the house, taking refuge in her childhood home with her father. OK, so maybe Charlie was a bit presumptuous...but after ten years together if it was me I would have thought they'd get married too. And not to mention that cottage by the sea...and the sounds of the ocean through the window at night. To me, that is just pure heaven.
So instead of settling down in their sleepy seaside village in Dorset (which I would prefer to smelly crowded London, myself), Sophie sends out applications to London ad agencies in the hope of securing herself a job. When she is contacted by One Pure "something or other" (I forget the rest of the name) for an interview she can hardly believe it. She travels up to London and meets with James and Cassie, two of the founding members of the company, and together they hit it off. Sophie nails the interview and is offered the job. Better yet, she is offered a flat the company uses for their employees rent-free. Um...
Seriously, how naive can one person be? Hand-picked from a social media post to her dream job with a rent-free flat? Who take her shopping for food, clothing and furnishings? And her bosses just too good to be true? Does she not have any inkling whatsoever that something isn't right? Truly...if something seems too good to be true, then it generally is. But Sophie just welcomed it all with open arms and a naivete that was almost cringeworthy. She should have remembered that nothing comes for free...her experience with Charlie should have told her that. And yet...
And then Sophie begins to hear noises in the night, footsteps outside her door...when she is the only occupant in the building...and a dead rat on her doorstep. And she has the creepy feeling she is being watched. Do people actually feel that? Truly? Then she is approached by a woman claiming to have worked for the company before and she wants to talk to her...but Sophie isn't so sure. When the police approach her regarding her past, Sophie fears her secret is about to be exposed. And before long, Sophie isn't sure who she can trust.
And then she stumbles on a dead body in the flat below hers...
In all honesty, Sophie was too gullible for words. I mean, I generally take people at face value but she took it to a whole new level. She ignored all the red flags and neon signs flashing in her direction, even when warned, and basically dug herself in deeper. She was in a bit of a bind though...new job, new flat and no way of paying rent anywhere else in London except maybe a park bench. Is that why she ignored all the warning signs? Given at all she had endured I would have thought she'd have been more guarded and not so trusting. That went without saying...and yet here she was trusting complete strangers. Even when Charlie turned up several times, which was a little creepy to say the least, she trusted her new friends instead of him who'd she'd known half her life.
The plot was interesting enough but full of holes in my opinion because I really couldn't see a woman being that naive particularly after what she'd been through. Yes, it was a tad far-fetched but it was still fast paced and gripping enough to keep me engaged to the end. I wasn't surprised by the ending or the links to her past as I could see them from a mile off. I didn't trust anyone in the story and hoped Sophie wised up to them before it was too late. No one else is really worth writing about.
THE NEW GIRL is a creepy thriller that had my spidey senses tingling throughout despite my desire to shake some sense into the woman. Sophie has a vulnerability that stems from a previous trauma which has turned he into an unreliable judge of character. And now she's stuck in a flat alone with the threat of someone out there exposing something she would much rather keep hidden. Who can she trust? While Charlie was becoming a tad too clingy and overprotective, I still felt it was a case of better the devil you know than swimming in an ocean of sharks she could not see lurking in the shadows.
A relatively spine-tingling read, THE NEW GIRL is a thriller where you suspect everyone as you try to guess who is responsible. The twists may be unexpected or you may see them coming...it depends on how you read it all. The climax was nail-biting and somewhat exciting but the epilogue was a bit of a letdown as I had expected a bit more to come of things.
Overall, THE NEW GIRL is a reasonably enjoyable read that didn't quite have me on the edge of my seat but it was fast paced and gripping just the same. Didn't quite pack the same punch as the author's previous thrillers but still a good read.
I would like to thank #RuthHeald, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheNewGirl in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Ruth Heald's exciting new thriller THE NEW GIRL.
I've been a fan of Ruth Heald since her debut domestic thriller "The Mother's Mistake" which is just brilliant from start to finish. So naturally every new release of hers incites an excitement and anticipation of what's to come. This one promises fresh starts and new beginnings for the protagonist who has seen her fair share of ups and downs, not to mention disappointments. Unfortunately, this fresh start isn't what she was expecting.
THE NEW GIRL in this story is Sophie, who had escaped London once before after an incident at university for the safety of home in Dorset. But now she is ready to put the past behind her and move forward...beginning with a job at an ad agency in London. Unfortunately, her boyfriend Charlie doesn't see things in quite the same way. After celebrating ten years since their first kiss at the tender age of fourteen, Charlie springs a surprise on her he is sure she will love.
As he leads her to the cottage by the sea that was once his grandfather's, he proudly announces that he is doing it up for them to settle down and raise a family in. And then he pops the question. Sophie stalls. This isn't what she wants and she flees the house, taking refuge in her childhood home with her father. OK, so maybe Charlie was a bit presumptuous...but after ten years together if it was me I would have thought they'd get married too. And not to mention that cottage by the sea...and the sounds of the ocean through the window at night. To me, that is just pure heaven.
So instead of settling down in their sleepy seaside village in Dorset (which I would prefer to smelly crowded London, myself), Sophie sends out applications to London ad agencies in the hope of securing herself a job. When she is contacted by One Pure "something or other" (I forget the rest of the name) for an interview she can hardly believe it. She travels up to London and meets with James and Cassie, two of the founding members of the company, and together they hit it off. Sophie nails the interview and is offered the job. Better yet, she is offered a flat the company uses for their employees rent-free. Um...
Seriously, how naive can one person be? Hand-picked from a social media post to her dream job with a rent-free flat? Who take her shopping for food, clothing and furnishings? And her bosses just too good to be true? Does she not have any inkling whatsoever that something isn't right? Truly...if something seems too good to be true, then it generally is. But Sophie just welcomed it all with open arms and a naivete that was almost cringeworthy. She should have remembered that nothing comes for free...her experience with Charlie should have told her that. And yet...
And then Sophie begins to hear noises in the night, footsteps outside her door...when she is the only occupant in the building...and a dead rat on her doorstep. And she has the creepy feeling she is being watched. Do people actually feel that? Truly? Then she is approached by a woman claiming to have worked for the company before and she wants to talk to her...but Sophie isn't so sure. When the police approach her regarding her past, Sophie fears her secret is about to be exposed. And before long, Sophie isn't sure who she can trust.
And then she stumbles on a dead body in the flat below hers...
In all honesty, Sophie was too gullible for words. I mean, I generally take people at face value but she took it to a whole new level. She ignored all the red flags and neon signs flashing in her direction, even when warned, and basically dug herself in deeper. She was in a bit of a bind though...new job, new flat and no way of paying rent anywhere else in London except maybe a park bench. Is that why she ignored all the warning signs? Given at all she had endured I would have thought she'd have been more guarded and not so trusting. That went without saying...and yet here she was trusting complete strangers. Even when Charlie turned up several times, which was a little creepy to say the least, she trusted her new friends instead of him who'd she'd known half her life.
The plot was interesting enough but full of holes in my opinion because I really couldn't see a woman being that naive particularly after what she'd been through. Yes, it was a tad far-fetched but it was still fast paced and gripping enough to keep me engaged to the end. I wasn't surprised by the ending or the links to her past as I could see them from a mile off. I didn't trust anyone in the story and hoped Sophie wised up to them before it was too late. No one else is really worth writing about.
THE NEW GIRL is a creepy thriller that had my spidey senses tingling throughout despite my desire to shake some sense into the woman. Sophie has a vulnerability that stems from a previous trauma which has turned he into an unreliable judge of character. And now she's stuck in a flat alone with the threat of someone out there exposing something she would much rather keep hidden. Who can she trust? While Charlie was becoming a tad too clingy and overprotective, I still felt it was a case of better the devil you know than swimming in an ocean of sharks she could not see lurking in the shadows.
A relatively spine-tingling read, THE NEW GIRL is a thriller where you suspect everyone as you try to guess who is responsible. The twists may be unexpected or you may see them coming...it depends on how you read it all. The climax was nail-biting and somewhat exciting but the epilogue was a bit of a letdown as I had expected a bit more to come of things.
Overall, THE NEW GIRL is a reasonably enjoyable read that didn't quite have me on the edge of my seat but it was fast paced and gripping just the same. Didn't quite pack the same punch as the author's previous thrillers but still a good read.
I would like to thank #RuthHeald, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheNewGirl in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
December 27, 2021
A plot with a very relevant premise that instills unease in the reader from the get-go.
Sophie Williams has landed the role of brand strategist at an advertising agency in London, an offer with perks too good to be true. An outstanding debt following her father's ill-health and the chance to live her dream life, makes her snag the opportunity without a second thought. However, as she plunges headlong into her exciting new life, disturbing events occur, causing Sophie to wonder whether the perfect job was actually a devious trap.
The protagonist was pretty gullible, ignoring all the red flags that repeatedly smacked her in the face. This may have worked for the plot, but it totally amped up my anxiety levels, making me want to shake some sense into the girl. To me, her character seemed a tad uncredible as I was under the impression that a person who had been subjected to the kind of trauma that Sophie had undergone, always had their guard up. None of the other characters are worth writing about.
Though the crux of the plot was interesting, certain inconsistencies in the narrative made for a grating read. The story itself was long drawn out and I must admit that the climax failed to strike a chord with me. The epilogue, IMO, was overkill.
Overall, a story with a grave subject matter that could and should have wowed the reader, but somehow missed the mark.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Sophie Williams has landed the role of brand strategist at an advertising agency in London, an offer with perks too good to be true. An outstanding debt following her father's ill-health and the chance to live her dream life, makes her snag the opportunity without a second thought. However, as she plunges headlong into her exciting new life, disturbing events occur, causing Sophie to wonder whether the perfect job was actually a devious trap.
The protagonist was pretty gullible, ignoring all the red flags that repeatedly smacked her in the face. This may have worked for the plot, but it totally amped up my anxiety levels, making me want to shake some sense into the girl. To me, her character seemed a tad uncredible as I was under the impression that a person who had been subjected to the kind of trauma that Sophie had undergone, always had their guard up. None of the other characters are worth writing about.
Though the crux of the plot was interesting, certain inconsistencies in the narrative made for a grating read. The story itself was long drawn out and I must admit that the climax failed to strike a chord with me. The epilogue, IMO, was overkill.
Overall, a story with a grave subject matter that could and should have wowed the reader, but somehow missed the mark.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2021
An interesting read. Sophie moves to London for a new start, but her past keeps following her. Strange things happen at her apartment and she has huge gaps of memory. The plot was interesting. It took me awhile to discern who was foe or friend. I have to say Sophie isn’t the sharpest knife in the drawer. In one of the scenes, where she is in trouble she stupidly thinks the villain is going to,help her, after just having tried to kill her. I didn’t root for the villains but I wasn’t a fan of Sophie’s either. Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.
December 26, 2021
Fresh starts. We all love them. Sophie Williams is no different.
Unfortunately, Sophie’s fresh start isn’t what she was expecting.
Ruth Heald, known for writing eerie, twisty and atmospheric psychological thrillers, writes about a girl who starts a new job in the big city and discovers that it isn’t, nor her colleagues aren’t, all she initially presumed them to be. To tell her message, Heald has slyly crafted the most annoying and irritating, almost clueless protagonist. With very little experience, Sophie gets her dream job in London, complete with furnished apartment, paid living expenses including clothes, and all her debts paid off…and she’s not even the slightest bit concerned?! Is she blinded by the potential of this new job and doesn’t see that her unresolved past will come to haunt her present and future?
You’ll read about trauma in Sophie’s early life, a stalker boyfriend in her recent past, and a whispering girl in her present who warns Sophie of her future. Heald takes the threads from these three time periods in Sophie’s life and weaves them together highlighting the vulnerability of women. Heald demonstrates that it’s possible to be trapped in a job. In this case, Sophie’s debt load means that she is dependent on her employer and this leads to all kinds of trouble. Heald also raises the difficult theme of assault and delicately explores how it affects every aspect of the victim’s existence.
This creepy, fast paced, edge of your seat, gripping read needs to be on your radar come January 25, 2022.
I was gifted this advance copy by Ruth Heald, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Unfortunately, Sophie’s fresh start isn’t what she was expecting.
Ruth Heald, known for writing eerie, twisty and atmospheric psychological thrillers, writes about a girl who starts a new job in the big city and discovers that it isn’t, nor her colleagues aren’t, all she initially presumed them to be. To tell her message, Heald has slyly crafted the most annoying and irritating, almost clueless protagonist. With very little experience, Sophie gets her dream job in London, complete with furnished apartment, paid living expenses including clothes, and all her debts paid off…and she’s not even the slightest bit concerned?! Is she blinded by the potential of this new job and doesn’t see that her unresolved past will come to haunt her present and future?
You’ll read about trauma in Sophie’s early life, a stalker boyfriend in her recent past, and a whispering girl in her present who warns Sophie of her future. Heald takes the threads from these three time periods in Sophie’s life and weaves them together highlighting the vulnerability of women. Heald demonstrates that it’s possible to be trapped in a job. In this case, Sophie’s debt load means that she is dependent on her employer and this leads to all kinds of trouble. Heald also raises the difficult theme of assault and delicately explores how it affects every aspect of the victim’s existence.
This creepy, fast paced, edge of your seat, gripping read needs to be on your radar come January 25, 2022.
I was gifted this advance copy by Ruth Heald, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 17, 2022
I have a hit and miss relationship with this author's books and sadly this was a big miss. The reason this was poor is because when you create a main character so naive or in my opinion stupid as this you're assuming your readers are equally naive or stupid to believe her behaviour.
Sophie is the new girl at an Ad Agency, having just moved to London to escape her small town.
She is so naive, wet behind the ears or in my opinion plain stupid that she accepts her job offer that comes complete with a lovely flat in London, despite her dismal work experience and qualification obtained online that probably isn't worth the paper it's printed on.
Sophie is so intent on proving herself she doesn't see how the past catching up to her is about to run her into a brick wall.
The book is predictable and repetitive. 2 stars
Sophie is the new girl at an Ad Agency, having just moved to London to escape her small town.
She is so naive, wet behind the ears or in my opinion plain stupid that she accepts her job offer that comes complete with a lovely flat in London, despite her dismal work experience and qualification obtained online that probably isn't worth the paper it's printed on.
Sophie is so intent on proving herself she doesn't see how the past catching up to her is about to run her into a brick wall.
The book is predictable and repetitive. 2 stars
January 17, 2022
Sophie ready to let go of her past and move to London for a job that seems very “too good to be true”. Everything is perfect that is until she receives an email about the past she is running away from.
I love a suspense book that keep hitting me with shocking twists. Poor naive Sophie was walking towards a field of red flags and she had no idea.I enjoyed the pace of the book it helped me get out of a reading slump and the mystery atmosphere had me by the throat. As much as I enjoyed seeing all the characters got what they deserved, the ending was rushed and was underwhelming.
I love a suspense book that keep hitting me with shocking twists. Poor naive Sophie was walking towards a field of red flags and she had no idea.I enjoyed the pace of the book it helped me get out of a reading slump and the mystery atmosphere had me by the throat. As much as I enjoyed seeing all the characters got what they deserved, the ending was rushed and was underwhelming.
January 25, 2022
In this book we meet Sophie who has split up with her boyfriend and moved to London for a new start and a new job complete with fabulous apartment.
It’s an easy read and quite a few twists along the way.
As for Sophie, a wee bit dim to be honest,
But that didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book which was very well written.
Would definitely recommend it and I’m happy to give it 4 stars.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance read.
It’s an easy read and quite a few twists along the way.
As for Sophie, a wee bit dim to be honest,
But that didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book which was very well written.
Would definitely recommend it and I’m happy to give it 4 stars.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance read.
February 2, 2022
Behind her dream life hides the perfect nightmare. I couldn’t believe it when I got the call to offer me my dream job. It was right in the heart of the city with a flat provided. I jumped at the chance and within days I had made new friends and am dating a wonderful man. For the first time in years, I feel safe. It’s a world away from the life I ran from…But soon strange things begin to happen in my flat: odd noises in the night, the feeling that I’m being watched. When I discover an old dress hidden behind my wardrobe and wear it to work, the atmosphere chills instantly. The dress belonged to a girl my boss would rather forget. The girl before me who vanished without a trace. I tell myself not to worry; that I’m just imagining things. But when a young woman arrives on my doorstep, she warns me to leave my new life behind. She tells me there are more girls like me and we are more connected than I could have ever imagined. Then I come face to face with the reason I ran all those years ago and it soon becomes clear: someone knows my secret. And they will do anything to keep me silent.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own hone\st voluntary review.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own hone\st voluntary review.
January 28, 2022
You know the old saying “out of the frying pan into the fire” well that is exactly the predicament that Sophie has found herself in and I don’t think I’ve ever shouted at a book quite so much as this one.
Even though this is a work of fiction, as a woman I quickly noticed things that were uncomfortably familiar. With Sophie in a desperate situation it seemed that her life was about to change for the better. But if something seems to good to be true then it normally is and how do you recognise a wolf when everyone is dressed as sheep?
This was an infuriatingly tense read with superb characters that I was constantly changing my opinion on. Sophie was instantly likeable in her vulnerability and all her actions and reactions were completely understandable given her circumstances and I would implore you to read the author letter at the end.
I have to add that while this does contain a few twists and turns and an ending that I really did not see coming. For me, what really stood out was how the author has taken the topic of woman’s safety and shown the unfortunate reality of how difficult it is for women to not only know who to trust, but to be believed, even by other women.
Even though this is a work of fiction, as a woman I quickly noticed things that were uncomfortably familiar. With Sophie in a desperate situation it seemed that her life was about to change for the better. But if something seems to good to be true then it normally is and how do you recognise a wolf when everyone is dressed as sheep?
This was an infuriatingly tense read with superb characters that I was constantly changing my opinion on. Sophie was instantly likeable in her vulnerability and all her actions and reactions were completely understandable given her circumstances and I would implore you to read the author letter at the end.
I have to add that while this does contain a few twists and turns and an ending that I really did not see coming. For me, what really stood out was how the author has taken the topic of woman’s safety and shown the unfortunate reality of how difficult it is for women to not only know who to trust, but to be believed, even by other women.
February 2, 2022
This was an excellent, solid thriller. I enjoy a fantastic workplace-based thriller so this novel really appealed to me. Sophie is looking for a fresh start following the end of a relationship and finds herself in London, securing a job that is way beyond her expectations in a small family-owned marketing company. With exciting social opportunities, the perfect flat and the attentions of a handsome admirer, it all seems too good to be true. There's plenty of suspense to keep the reader's attention and it has chunks of unpredictability. Well worth a read. 😀
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 21, 2022
What was it all about
A new girl who joined an advertising firm and found herself being subjected to weird happenings. She thought she could escape the past, but unfortunately, her past was her future.
How it made me feel
The blurb was more exciting than the book. There were pockets of suspense, that made me continue reading.
The story was easily guessable. There were moments when I wanted to tap her on the shoulder to warn her.
After what had happened to her in the past, being swayed by beautiful looking people, made me want to bop her one.
So I had good fun wanting to knock the babe with my book. If it sounded too good to be true, it probably was.
The Good
The writing was good and easy to read at one go.
The suspense was built up slowly. The pace was steady.
One unexpected twist, that I should have expected, perhaps.
The Bad
Sometimes it felt authors nowadays in a psychological thriller tried too hard to inject suspense where the main character found all actions suspicious and after the said author decided who the villain would be, they changed all suspicious actions to benevolence.
Alas, how many stories could one write around the same topic? At one point, every author writing suspense would come to a circle.
That was why I liked Dandy Smith’s book One Small Mistake where there was an attempt to be different.
The Conclusion
Overall, barring one twist, the whole book was formulaic and easily guessable.
A new girl who joined an advertising firm and found herself being subjected to weird happenings. She thought she could escape the past, but unfortunately, her past was her future.
How it made me feel
The blurb was more exciting than the book. There were pockets of suspense, that made me continue reading.
The story was easily guessable. There were moments when I wanted to tap her on the shoulder to warn her.
After what had happened to her in the past, being swayed by beautiful looking people, made me want to bop her one.
So I had good fun wanting to knock the babe with my book. If it sounded too good to be true, it probably was.
The Good
The writing was good and easy to read at one go.
The suspense was built up slowly. The pace was steady.
One unexpected twist, that I should have expected, perhaps.
The Bad
Sometimes it felt authors nowadays in a psychological thriller tried too hard to inject suspense where the main character found all actions suspicious and after the said author decided who the villain would be, they changed all suspicious actions to benevolence.
Alas, how many stories could one write around the same topic? At one point, every author writing suspense would come to a circle.
That was why I liked Dandy Smith’s book One Small Mistake where there was an attempt to be different.
The Conclusion
Overall, barring one twist, the whole book was formulaic and easily guessable.
January 11, 2022
The New Girl is the story of Sophie. She returned from her experience she had at school for the safety of home. Now she has finished school and gotten her online degree. Sophie feels she is ready to brave her fears and return to London for a job in London. She had been living with Charlie, but he was getting too clingy and overprotective. Sophie breaks it off and sends out resumes and finally gets a request for an interview. Excited she takes the offer as well as the few perks that come with the job. As she tries to get comfortable with her new life, she notices odd things start to happen at her apartment, odd noises, a dead rat, and finally a dead body in the apartment below hers.
This is a psychological thriller where everyone will become a suspect as you try to guess who is responsible. The twists and turns keep building until the end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
This is a psychological thriller where everyone will become a suspect as you try to guess who is responsible. The twists and turns keep building until the end.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
December 12, 2024
Can you ever escape our past? I don't really think so. It is and will forever remain a part of you and was also responsible for the person you are now. It has changed you in some ways. It either has made you stronger or it has made you anxious, because you know there was never closure.
What would we be without people in our life who support and help us anyway they can? It's hard to trust people again and in the beginning you keep the boat off, but gradually you let them in and see them for who they are: trustworthy people...
Are people trustworthy or do you realise that, in the end, they were backstabbing wolves in sheep clothes?
Maybe our leading lady should have seen it all went a bit too easy, but hey who did not fall into that trap?
I enjoyed this book a lot. I kept changing my mind about the name of the culprit and I did feel like there was someone trying a bit too hard, but I was totally taken by surprise by some of the revelations in the end.
Great story that had a certain level of creepiness that made my skin crawl. Wonderful plot. 5 stars
Thank you
What would we be without people in our life who support and help us anyway they can? It's hard to trust people again and in the beginning you keep the boat off, but gradually you let them in and see them for who they are: trustworthy people...
Are people trustworthy or do you realise that, in the end, they were backstabbing wolves in sheep clothes?
Maybe our leading lady should have seen it all went a bit too easy, but hey who did not fall into that trap?
I enjoyed this book a lot. I kept changing my mind about the name of the culprit and I did feel like there was someone trying a bit too hard, but I was totally taken by surprise by some of the revelations in the end.
Great story that had a certain level of creepiness that made my skin crawl. Wonderful plot. 5 stars
Thank you
January 19, 2022
Another really good story from Ruth Heald!
Sophie is stuck in her hometown of Dorset where she grew up but yearns for the bright lights of London and to use her university degree to carve out a career in advertising. Suddenly a job opportunity at an up-and-coming advertising agency comes her way and before she knows it, she’s on a train to London for the interview. She gets the job and within weeks is living in London, socialising with her new colleagues, and enjoying her job. However, she has a secret in the past that she wants to forget but it’s never that easy to just move on. Sophie’s past and the present begin colliding and she begins to wonder who she can really trust. Was the job and all the perks that came with it too good to be true?! You’ll have to read the book to find out.
I really enjoyed this book. I took an instant dislike to Charlie and in all honesty, I don’t know how Sophie stayed with him for 10 years! I thought the author did a great job in making me feel just as confused as Sophie and also really portrayed the creepiness in some scenes perfectly. The twist was a shock to me I definitely did not see it coming. I would highly recommend this book to psychological thriller readers, and I can’t wait to read more of Ruth Heald’s books.
Thank you to Netgalley, Ruth Heald and Bookouture for my advanced reading copy. Due out 25th January 2022.
Sophie is stuck in her hometown of Dorset where she grew up but yearns for the bright lights of London and to use her university degree to carve out a career in advertising. Suddenly a job opportunity at an up-and-coming advertising agency comes her way and before she knows it, she’s on a train to London for the interview. She gets the job and within weeks is living in London, socialising with her new colleagues, and enjoying her job. However, she has a secret in the past that she wants to forget but it’s never that easy to just move on. Sophie’s past and the present begin colliding and she begins to wonder who she can really trust. Was the job and all the perks that came with it too good to be true?! You’ll have to read the book to find out.
I really enjoyed this book. I took an instant dislike to Charlie and in all honesty, I don’t know how Sophie stayed with him for 10 years! I thought the author did a great job in making me feel just as confused as Sophie and also really portrayed the creepiness in some scenes perfectly. The twist was a shock to me I definitely did not see it coming. I would highly recommend this book to psychological thriller readers, and I can’t wait to read more of Ruth Heald’s books.
Thank you to Netgalley, Ruth Heald and Bookouture for my advanced reading copy. Due out 25th January 2022.
January 11, 2022
What a thriller!
Sophie gets the perfect opportunity job in London. As she is in desperate need for money she is happy to accept without thinking too much if the offer might not be to good to be true.
Until disturbing things start to occur, making Sophie wonder.
What follows is a hell of a ride that made me want to know what is about to happen next! Though I have to confess that at some times I could not beleave how Sophie reacted. But isn't this the kick of reading thriller books? In the end it worked out pretty fine!
Thank you #NetGalley #Bookouture for an ARC of this book
Sophie gets the perfect opportunity job in London. As she is in desperate need for money she is happy to accept without thinking too much if the offer might not be to good to be true.
Until disturbing things start to occur, making Sophie wonder.
What follows is a hell of a ride that made me want to know what is about to happen next! Though I have to confess that at some times I could not beleave how Sophie reacted. But isn't this the kick of reading thriller books? In the end it worked out pretty fine!
Thank you #NetGalley #Bookouture for an ARC of this book
December 23, 2021
I always enjoy Ruth Heald novels and have read most of them. I equate them with a great episode of Law and Order. Unsure what to watch from hundreds of shows you choose Law and Order as you are guaranteed an interesting plot, devious characters and a satisfying climax. Here, we have Sophie, a young woman who is a little naive (necessary for the plot of course) accepting her dream job in London in a hip marketing company run by three charismatic people. Against the better judgement of friends and family Sophie feels the opportunity gives her the chance to move on from a recent traumatic event that will follow her to London. The first three quarters is five stars and the last section left me wanting a little more development before the twist.
January 21, 2022
Thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced ebook.
A fast paced page turner, I guessed a couple of things before they happened and felt the ending was a little abrupt and unsatisfying.
A fast paced page turner, I guessed a couple of things before they happened and felt the ending was a little abrupt and unsatisfying.
April 8, 2022
The twist at the end surprised me!
October 13, 2022
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 6, 2023
A fun read, with a shocking twist at the end. Although more of the backstory would have tied in better with the ending. Still enjoyed the story!
July 29, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
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