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The Break
All she wanted was some peace and quiet. But someone was watching.
Karen is a busy wife and mother. Between work, her husband Peter, and their two children, Oscar and Noah, she doesn’t have a minute to herself.
So when it all begins to feel too much, Karen knows just what she needs - to get away for a little while. Nothing big. Just a short break.
Her friend, Eve, tells her about a quaint little holiday home, and Karen books herself a short stay. She’ll have time to read, take bubble baths, unwind. Perfect.
But this is no ordinary holiday home – it contains a dark and disturbing secret. Because Karen isn’t alone here – someone is watching her. Waiting for the right moment to spring the trap and plunge her into a nightmare she’ll never forget.
The Break – the stunning psychological thriller from the author of The Passenger and The New Friends.
Karen is a busy wife and mother. Between work, her husband Peter, and their two children, Oscar and Noah, she doesn’t have a minute to herself.
So when it all begins to feel too much, Karen knows just what she needs - to get away for a little while. Nothing big. Just a short break.
Her friend, Eve, tells her about a quaint little holiday home, and Karen books herself a short stay. She’ll have time to read, take bubble baths, unwind. Perfect.
But this is no ordinary holiday home – it contains a dark and disturbing secret. Because Karen isn’t alone here – someone is watching her. Waiting for the right moment to spring the trap and plunge her into a nightmare she’ll never forget.
The Break – the stunning psychological thriller from the author of The Passenger and The New Friends.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2022
4223 people are currently reading
2009 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Hurst
89 books3,993 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 242 reviews
July 31, 2024
Karen’s life is a whirlwind, juggling her two boys and a shaky marriage. She’s desperately in need of a break. But just as she’s trying to catch her breath, things take a dark turn. Someone’s keeping a close eye on her. Enter a mysterious new friend, and you’ve got a recipe for a rollercoaster of suspense!
Daniel’s storytelling is top-notch, pulling you in from the first page. This book is packed with twists and turns, making it impossible to put down. I found myself glued to it, even when I had “adulting” tasks to do! If you love gripping tales that keep you on the edge of your seat, this one’s a must-read!
Daniel’s storytelling is top-notch, pulling you in from the first page. This book is packed with twists and turns, making it impossible to put down. I found myself glued to it, even when I had “adulting” tasks to do! If you love gripping tales that keep you on the edge of your seat, this one’s a must-read!
March 18, 2022
3.5 STARS
A quick little popcorn read!
My first by this author who has many fans and has written a bunch of popular psychological thrillers in the last couple of years. The Passenger is free on KU (at the moment) and I have it on my list to read soon.
I enjoyed his straightforward writing, pacing, and the first person narration from the main players. It is the kind of book you can just zoom through even though the plot was mostly predictable with an underwhelming feel.
The characters are standard with some to cheer for and some to detest. One character I really liked added some wisdom of forgiveness and not being consumed with anger forever. This is a revenge story though, and a fairly standard one.
It was a quick one which doesn't require much thinking, grab your coffee kind of read!
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my arc. OUT March 13, 2022
A quick little popcorn read!
My first by this author who has many fans and has written a bunch of popular psychological thrillers in the last couple of years. The Passenger is free on KU (at the moment) and I have it on my list to read soon.
I enjoyed his straightforward writing, pacing, and the first person narration from the main players. It is the kind of book you can just zoom through even though the plot was mostly predictable with an underwhelming feel.
The characters are standard with some to cheer for and some to detest. One character I really liked added some wisdom of forgiveness and not being consumed with anger forever. This is a revenge story though, and a fairly standard one.
It was a quick one which doesn't require much thinking, grab your coffee kind of read!
Thanks to NG and the publisher for my arc. OUT March 13, 2022
October 4, 2024
Awesome thriller! Anyone who is married, works, and has children knows how exhausting and demanding it can all be. And you never get a break. Just 24/7, no matter how overworked, exhausted, and emotional you may feel. Now imagine that you find out your spouse has been having an affair. And now you're being toyed with by some unknown person who is working to destroy your life. Once you imagine all that, you can put yourself in our main character, Karen's, shoes. She's not perfect, but she does her best. Like we all do. And she just can't seem to catch a break. I completely empathized with her here. She is so real world and human, and it was a relief to read about a typical person with normal struggles. Now, having never cheated on my wife, or having her done to same to me, I can't put myself in Peter's position. I don't think that cheating is ever right, but I suppose mistakes can happen. But it's an interesting dynamic, and I did want some more background here on his marriage to Karen and why he ended up straying. Was it just sexual fulfillment, to feel 'wanted' by an outside party, boredom, or something else? I feel like this would have made him a bit more relatable. Now Eve was written very well. You understood her involvement very much, however, much like Peter, I wanted more about her relationship with Leeanne. It was addressed, but only very briefly. But it was a huge part of her motives, and it felt underdeveloped, as did her general background. Again, it would have made the characters involved come full circle and feel more logical and sound in their thoughts, feelings, and actions. But, even with some minor flaws, the story is still the absolute definition of a good thriller. You spend majority of the story trying to figure out who to root for, while also working tirelessly to sift through all of the deception, fake names, etc. And it's an easy read, so at no point will you feel lost during all these swerves and pivots in the plot. This is my second book from Daniel Hurst and I am...well...'down like a clown, Charlie Brown (Who can name that quote?)?' That'll have to do right now. In simpler terms, I remain a fan.
February 23, 2024
If you look past the ridiculous motive, this was quite an enjoyable read. Plenty of action, without any major twists since one of the POV was very obvious in what she wanted (revenge). But still a thrilling read none the less.
November 4, 2024
Karen has a full-time job and also looks after her husband Peter and their two young boys. She feels like she doesn't have a moment to herself so when her friend Eve suggests she book a couple of nights at a holiday home, Karen thinks it's just what she needs - a short break.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, Daniel Hurst is quite a prolific author and I've read a few of his novels. The ones I've read, including this one, are short and easy to read. They aren't literary masterpieces by any means but I find it hard to explain what it is about his writing that draws me in. I just know that I enjoy reading one every now and then. The Break is told from the points of view of Karen and Eve mostly, with the odd chapter from Peter's point of view. It's a little predictable and a bit over the top in places but enjoyable nevertheless. 3.5 Stars rounded down!
My thanks to Inkubator Books via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I've said it before and I'll say it again, Daniel Hurst is quite a prolific author and I've read a few of his novels. The ones I've read, including this one, are short and easy to read. They aren't literary masterpieces by any means but I find it hard to explain what it is about his writing that draws me in. I just know that I enjoy reading one every now and then. The Break is told from the points of view of Karen and Eve mostly, with the odd chapter from Peter's point of view. It's a little predictable and a bit over the top in places but enjoyable nevertheless. 3.5 Stars rounded down!
My thanks to Inkubator Books via Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 3, 2022
There is something comforting about a Daniel Hurst book,especially in such uncertain times, you know there is a solid beginning to introduce you to the story, a great middle where the drama unfolds and a rewarding ending where it all ties up…which altogether makes for a great read…add to this strong good and bad characters, great settings, twists and turns and easy to read style and it’s always a winner with this prolific author
‘The Break’ is no different, it was a dramatic, well told and exciting story where you were shouting advice to some and booing others and waiting just waiting for ‘it all to come out’
Books like this make me realise again why I love reading, totally enjoyable with no hassles attached, loved it
10/10
5 Stars
‘The Break’ is no different, it was a dramatic, well told and exciting story where you were shouting advice to some and booing others and waiting just waiting for ‘it all to come out’
Books like this make me realise again why I love reading, totally enjoyable with no hassles attached, loved it
10/10
5 Stars
November 13, 2024
Yes! This was a rollercoaster ride with countless twists and turns. Daniel Hurst is a master at crafting a thriller you won’t be able to put down and this story exemplifies that point. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable and extremely entertaining. His thrillers are the perfect antidote for any reading slump. I highly recommend this addictive thriller. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 6, 2025
3.5 stars. The Break is the second book in the Daniel Hurst boxed set from Kindle Unlimited. The culprit and the motive were revealed early on, so it was just a matter of seeing how the story would play out. A pretty straightforward, predictable plot, but still fast-paced and entertaining.
January 28, 2023
Books by Daniel Hurst are like cookies or chocolate: you know what you get, you like them, and still they leave you with a feeling they could have been more.
The Break is no exception. Karen, Peter and their sons are a young family. Karen and Peter both work ‘in an office’ and they hate it. The children never listen to their parents. So, questions: why don’t Karen and Peter find themselves a nicer job and why don’t they teach their children to behave (a little more) normal? Peter had an affair – another cliché – and Karen needs a break but as soon she is in the little cottage she rented for two nights, she keeps calling home and wanting to go back. Why???
So, why did I read this book in one setting? Because, as with cookies and chocolate, it is very hard to stop once you started. Daniel Hurst has a gift, the gift of storytelling. I only wish that by now he would realize he can do better, much better. There are lots of famous books out there that do not have much more of a story than in The Break, but keep you sitting on the edge of your chair. I’ll keep on buying and reading his books, in the hope that one day he will really blow me away.
The Break is no exception. Karen, Peter and their sons are a young family. Karen and Peter both work ‘in an office’ and they hate it. The children never listen to their parents. So, questions: why don’t Karen and Peter find themselves a nicer job and why don’t they teach their children to behave (a little more) normal? Peter had an affair – another cliché – and Karen needs a break but as soon she is in the little cottage she rented for two nights, she keeps calling home and wanting to go back. Why???
So, why did I read this book in one setting? Because, as with cookies and chocolate, it is very hard to stop once you started. Daniel Hurst has a gift, the gift of storytelling. I only wish that by now he would realize he can do better, much better. There are lots of famous books out there that do not have much more of a story than in The Break, but keep you sitting on the edge of your chair. I’ll keep on buying and reading his books, in the hope that one day he will really blow me away.
March 24, 2022
I received a gifted copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.
The Break is the second novel by Daniel Hurst and I've just added all his other books to my tbr list.
This book was the perfect escapism I've been needing and I couldn't put it down!
Karen is burned out. She puts her family first always and needs a break desperately. A time to rest, relax and have some me time. But her break isn't all it seems to be - someone is watching her and waiting. But what are their intentions, and what will they do? This book was fantastic! After reading the prologue you get an understanding of what the end result of the story is, but the psychological journey through this book to unravel what happened, why and how far someone will go to get revenge, is breathtaking! I loved the build up in this story and piecing together along the way was so much fun!
The Break is the second novel by Daniel Hurst and I've just added all his other books to my tbr list.
This book was the perfect escapism I've been needing and I couldn't put it down!
Karen is burned out. She puts her family first always and needs a break desperately. A time to rest, relax and have some me time. But her break isn't all it seems to be - someone is watching her and waiting. But what are their intentions, and what will they do? This book was fantastic! After reading the prologue you get an understanding of what the end result of the story is, but the psychological journey through this book to unravel what happened, why and how far someone will go to get revenge, is breathtaking! I loved the build up in this story and piecing together along the way was so much fun!
March 24, 2022
I debated between 4 and 5 stars for this book, but on balance it has to be 5!
Read it in a day with barely any breaks, but the breaks that I took just meant that I was thinking about it and wanted to get back to it! Pardon the puns please.
A really gripping read, with loads of twists to keep me wanting more, and the multiple POVs were well defined without concern from the reader that they were gentle, vague characters with no personality! I was concerned about how memorable it is, but I'm even still thinking about it after finishing it last night!
Just what I needed. A new author for me but will definitely read more from him!
Read it in a day with barely any breaks, but the breaks that I took just meant that I was thinking about it and wanted to get back to it! Pardon the puns please.
A really gripping read, with loads of twists to keep me wanting more, and the multiple POVs were well defined without concern from the reader that they were gentle, vague characters with no personality! I was concerned about how memorable it is, but I'm even still thinking about it after finishing it last night!
Just what I needed. A new author for me but will definitely read more from him!
June 30, 2022
Karen a busy mother between work, her husband and her two children wants a break. And for a friend, Karen, is telling her about a little guest house where she can be by herself.
But, the break becomes a nightmare. Who could want to hurt her and her family.
Nice thriller, kept me away all night.
Thanks to Netgalley, and the author in exchange for my review.
But, the break becomes a nightmare. Who could want to hurt her and her family.
Nice thriller, kept me away all night.
Thanks to Netgalley, and the author in exchange for my review.
September 29, 2022
After thoroughly enjoying
"The New Friends"
just a couple of months ago and devouring THE BREAK in just four hours today, I have to say that Daniel Hurst has earnt the honour of being my new go-to author as well as a new favourite. I just love his easy style written in such a way the reader is drawn into a tangled web of secrets, lies and deception and watching it all unravel with glee. His chapters are also short and snappy, which are my favourite kind, keeping the story moving along at a fast moving pace. And despite knowing exactly what is going on, the ending is an explosive one that brings everything together and making it by far a thoroughly enjoyable and addictive read.
Is it not normal NOT to want to go on holiday with your family?
Sometimes we all just need a break from our lives to rest, reset and come back refreshed. But for Karen it could well be her last! It was supposed to be a relaxing time away...and it was...but what then ensues is her worst nightmare!
Karen is a busy wife and mum, physically and mentally drained with never having a moment to herself. All day she is pushed and pulled in every direction giving everything she has to everyone that needs her, relies on her...and for once, she just wants a little "me time" for herself. That's not too much to ask, is it? So it's when she is monologuing to her friend Eve during her lunch break about everything, she is shocked to find her friend suggesting she do just that. Get away. Take some time out for herself. She deserves it. She's earned it.
For the past decade she has given her life to her husband Peter and for the past eight, her children Noah and Oscar, and put them all first. So who looks after her needs then? When Eve tells her about this delightful holiday home not too far away on the other side of town, Karen dares to hope that she could just throw caution to the wind for a night or two and just spend some time for herself. It's really not too much to ask, is it?
Karen and Peter have struggled in their marriage since his infidelity a year ago and, while he is suitably remorseful and apologetic, Karen knows she needs time to get over the betrayal. After all, he broke her heart as well as her trust. But getting back to where they were before the affair has been a slog, especially since their two boys are incredibly energetic and keep them busy throughout the day and into the evening that by the time they've put them to bed, Karen and Peter are too exhausted to do anything on rekindling the romance that was once between them. Maybe a break is exactly what she needs...what they both need.
And then the nightmare begins...but will anyone make it out alive?
With three narrators - primarily Karen and Eve with a handful of chapters from Peter - THE BREAK unfolds at a break-neck speed delivering a no holds barred psychological thriller that is addictive, pageturning and absorbing from start to finish. I did not want to put it down...not even for dinner! How dare real life get in the way of such a thrilling tale? The easy-to-read style makes it a quick read, devouring it in just over four hours (reading time with dinner in between) while the short snappy chapters keep it moving at a fast pace.
I love how Hurst doesn't feel the need to fill the pages with too much detail and description, but give just enough to keep me entertained throughout. And dialogue. I love plenty of dialogue. People tend to dig their own graves with the things they say and Hurst makes good use of this with his very flawed characters' dialogue.
Oh, how wonderfully flawed these characters are. How terribly stupid they are and in some ways, naive. They each make their mistakes and how the story snowballs as a result by not one action, but each of their actions. It's like you are yelling at them "Don't do it!" knowing they will anyway because how can there be a story if they didn't? Not an interesting or as thrilling one at least.
This is only the second Daniel Hurst book I have read and devoured, "The New Friends" being the first and oh how I loved that deliciously deceptive thriller. Hurst is unique in his style as with the two I have read, the reader knows who the villains are from the beginning and the story unfolds through each of their eyes as we get to see the drama play out from both sides. Knowing who is responsible doesn't detract from the thrill of the chase at all. You still want to know how it ends...what the outcome will be. And that is his adept skill - his ability to keep us entertained and turning the pages even as we watch the entire scene unfold from both sides through his easy style. We know who's responsible and yet we stay for the show anyway.
A gripping read, THE BREAK certainly did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride Hurst took me on and I was immediately hooked from the moment I opened my Kindle. Well plotted and well written, I have to say Hurst is an expert at what he does and I cannot wait to devour more of his thrillers if they are anything like the two I have read.
Suspenseful, twisted and thoroughly entertaining, THE BREAK is a fast paced quick read where the pages literally just turn themselves. Highly recommended for fans of the psychological or domestic thriller genre or the likes of Shalini Boland and K.L. Slater.
I would like to thank #DanielHurst, #Netgalley, #InkubatorBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #TheBreak in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Is it not normal NOT to want to go on holiday with your family?
Sometimes we all just need a break from our lives to rest, reset and come back refreshed. But for Karen it could well be her last! It was supposed to be a relaxing time away...and it was...but what then ensues is her worst nightmare!
Karen is a busy wife and mum, physically and mentally drained with never having a moment to herself. All day she is pushed and pulled in every direction giving everything she has to everyone that needs her, relies on her...and for once, she just wants a little "me time" for herself. That's not too much to ask, is it? So it's when she is monologuing to her friend Eve during her lunch break about everything, she is shocked to find her friend suggesting she do just that. Get away. Take some time out for herself. She deserves it. She's earned it.
For the past decade she has given her life to her husband Peter and for the past eight, her children Noah and Oscar, and put them all first. So who looks after her needs then? When Eve tells her about this delightful holiday home not too far away on the other side of town, Karen dares to hope that she could just throw caution to the wind for a night or two and just spend some time for herself. It's really not too much to ask, is it?
Karen and Peter have struggled in their marriage since his infidelity a year ago and, while he is suitably remorseful and apologetic, Karen knows she needs time to get over the betrayal. After all, he broke her heart as well as her trust. But getting back to where they were before the affair has been a slog, especially since their two boys are incredibly energetic and keep them busy throughout the day and into the evening that by the time they've put them to bed, Karen and Peter are too exhausted to do anything on rekindling the romance that was once between them. Maybe a break is exactly what she needs...what they both need.
And then the nightmare begins...but will anyone make it out alive?
With three narrators - primarily Karen and Eve with a handful of chapters from Peter - THE BREAK unfolds at a break-neck speed delivering a no holds barred psychological thriller that is addictive, pageturning and absorbing from start to finish. I did not want to put it down...not even for dinner! How dare real life get in the way of such a thrilling tale? The easy-to-read style makes it a quick read, devouring it in just over four hours (reading time with dinner in between) while the short snappy chapters keep it moving at a fast pace.
I love how Hurst doesn't feel the need to fill the pages with too much detail and description, but give just enough to keep me entertained throughout. And dialogue. I love plenty of dialogue. People tend to dig their own graves with the things they say and Hurst makes good use of this with his very flawed characters' dialogue.
Oh, how wonderfully flawed these characters are. How terribly stupid they are and in some ways, naive. They each make their mistakes and how the story snowballs as a result by not one action, but each of their actions. It's like you are yelling at them "Don't do it!" knowing they will anyway because how can there be a story if they didn't? Not an interesting or as thrilling one at least.
This is only the second Daniel Hurst book I have read and devoured, "The New Friends" being the first and oh how I loved that deliciously deceptive thriller. Hurst is unique in his style as with the two I have read, the reader knows who the villains are from the beginning and the story unfolds through each of their eyes as we get to see the drama play out from both sides. Knowing who is responsible doesn't detract from the thrill of the chase at all. You still want to know how it ends...what the outcome will be. And that is his adept skill - his ability to keep us entertained and turning the pages even as we watch the entire scene unfold from both sides through his easy style. We know who's responsible and yet we stay for the show anyway.
A gripping read, THE BREAK certainly did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride Hurst took me on and I was immediately hooked from the moment I opened my Kindle. Well plotted and well written, I have to say Hurst is an expert at what he does and I cannot wait to devour more of his thrillers if they are anything like the two I have read.
Suspenseful, twisted and thoroughly entertaining, THE BREAK is a fast paced quick read where the pages literally just turn themselves. Highly recommended for fans of the psychological or domestic thriller genre or the likes of Shalini Boland and K.L. Slater.
I would like to thank #DanielHurst, #Netgalley, #InkubatorBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #TheBreak in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
March 4, 2022
“Is it normal to not want to go on holiday with your family?”
Karen is at her limit. She’s emotionally, physically and mentally drained because she has given everything she has to everyone who needs her…and she just wants a little time to herself. A chance to recharge, relax and reassure herself she’s going to make it. For the past 12 years she’s put her husband, Peter, first and for 8 of those years, her son, Noah, and the last 6, Oscar. One night away is not too much to ask. Or is it?
If we could ask Peter if it was worth it, he’d say no. It definitely wasn’t worth it for Karen. The one who paid the ultimate price for the retreat was her friend, Eve.
You’ll need to read this quick ‘n easy psychological thriller to find out what secrets #23 Churchill Road is keeping. I promise you’ll think twice before heading off to an Airbnb next time you need to get away from it all!!!
Hurst has his finger on the pulse of what readers are looking for in a good thriller. He takes an everyday action and puts his signature spin on it and leaves readers breathless. You’ll know the end result with the prologue, you’ll suspect what’s happening early on, but you’ll be on the rollercoaster ride of a lifetime as you watch how far someone will go to exact revenge and retribution. It doesn’t come out of left field, it’s been boiling and toiling for a while, but as a reader, you’re only spoon-fed little bits every few chapters and kept in the dark. Buckle up. Enjoy the ride.
I was given this advance copy by Daniel Hurst, Inkubator Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Karen is at her limit. She’s emotionally, physically and mentally drained because she has given everything she has to everyone who needs her…and she just wants a little time to herself. A chance to recharge, relax and reassure herself she’s going to make it. For the past 12 years she’s put her husband, Peter, first and for 8 of those years, her son, Noah, and the last 6, Oscar. One night away is not too much to ask. Or is it?
If we could ask Peter if it was worth it, he’d say no. It definitely wasn’t worth it for Karen. The one who paid the ultimate price for the retreat was her friend, Eve.
You’ll need to read this quick ‘n easy psychological thriller to find out what secrets #23 Churchill Road is keeping. I promise you’ll think twice before heading off to an Airbnb next time you need to get away from it all!!!
Hurst has his finger on the pulse of what readers are looking for in a good thriller. He takes an everyday action and puts his signature spin on it and leaves readers breathless. You’ll know the end result with the prologue, you’ll suspect what’s happening early on, but you’ll be on the rollercoaster ride of a lifetime as you watch how far someone will go to exact revenge and retribution. It doesn’t come out of left field, it’s been boiling and toiling for a while, but as a reader, you’re only spoon-fed little bits every few chapters and kept in the dark. Buckle up. Enjoy the ride.
I was given this advance copy by Daniel Hurst, Inkubator Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 5, 2022
The Break by Daniel Hurst is another pulse-pounding thriller from a master of the genre. I could not wait to get my hands on his latest, and I was not at all disappointed.
Karen is a busy wife and mother who is feeling a bit burnt out. It is not easy keeping up with her two energetic boys, while at the same time trying to heal her marriage following her husband's recent infidelity. When her friend Eve suggests that she take a solo break at a holiday house not far from home it seems the perfect opportunity for a rest and reset. But what Karen doesn't realize is that someone is watching her, and it seems that they might have some very specific intentions. Just who is watching the exhausted mother from the shadows as she enjoys an innocuous and low key break from her everyday life?
If you are looking to be fully immersed in an utterly addictive read, then look no further. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for an ARC.
Karen is a busy wife and mother who is feeling a bit burnt out. It is not easy keeping up with her two energetic boys, while at the same time trying to heal her marriage following her husband's recent infidelity. When her friend Eve suggests that she take a solo break at a holiday house not far from home it seems the perfect opportunity for a rest and reset. But what Karen doesn't realize is that someone is watching her, and it seems that they might have some very specific intentions. Just who is watching the exhausted mother from the shadows as she enjoys an innocuous and low key break from her everyday life?
If you are looking to be fully immersed in an utterly addictive read, then look no further. 4.5 stars
Many thanks to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for an ARC.
March 30, 2022
I've never given a book 1 star before but I really struggled with this... Maybe it was such a disappointment because the books I've been reading lately have been my favourite books EVER (seriously hard to beat!) but, either way, it wasn't for me.
I've read a lot of fantasy / YA books lately so I read this as a bit of a pallette cleanser since it was fine & short but I reeaallly didn't enjoy it!! I'm too nosey though so skimmed through most of the book until the end.
I really disliked the characters 🙈 I felt like there was a lot of repetition about what they were going to do or had been doing which really wasn't needed... Okay, I got it the first three times you mentioned it!
The writing style was awful and sentences like 'But it wasn’t Karen calling me. It was from a number I didn’t recognise. But when I answered it, I found out exactly who it was.' felt like something I would have written when I was in school. I feel a bit mean saying that but it's just my opinion!
I won't be picking up another book by this author any time soon I'm afraid. Back to YA / Fantasy for me!
I've read a lot of fantasy / YA books lately so I read this as a bit of a pallette cleanser since it was fine & short but I reeaallly didn't enjoy it!! I'm too nosey though so skimmed through most of the book until the end.
I really disliked the characters 🙈 I felt like there was a lot of repetition about what they were going to do or had been doing which really wasn't needed... Okay, I got it the first three times you mentioned it!
The writing style was awful and sentences like 'But it wasn’t Karen calling me. It was from a number I didn’t recognise. But when I answered it, I found out exactly who it was.' felt like something I would have written when I was in school. I feel a bit mean saying that but it's just my opinion!
I won't be picking up another book by this author any time soon I'm afraid. Back to YA / Fantasy for me!
March 15, 2022
A really good psychological thriller and one sit read for me.
Karen is a married woman and mother of two. her boys are super energetic and her marriage is facing some problems, witch both are draining her out so when her friend Eve suggests that she could spend a day solo in a holiday house, she is more than happy to accept. but one thing she doesn't know is that someone is watching her. but who? why? and in the end, was it worth it for Karen to take this one day off?
the book has three narrators, Karen, Eve and Karen's husband. and I really love when there is more than one point of view in a story. It helps you get a better understanding.
It's an easy read and a enjoyable one for that matter. a really good plot at the end and breath-taking surprises during the read. I would recommend this to everyone who likes thrillers.
This review will be published on NetGallery and Goodreads.
Thanks to Net Gallery and Inkubator Books for Providing my copy.
Karen is a married woman and mother of two. her boys are super energetic and her marriage is facing some problems, witch both are draining her out so when her friend Eve suggests that she could spend a day solo in a holiday house, she is more than happy to accept. but one thing she doesn't know is that someone is watching her. but who? why? and in the end, was it worth it for Karen to take this one day off?
the book has three narrators, Karen, Eve and Karen's husband. and I really love when there is more than one point of view in a story. It helps you get a better understanding.
It's an easy read and a enjoyable one for that matter. a really good plot at the end and breath-taking surprises during the read. I would recommend this to everyone who likes thrillers.
This review will be published on NetGallery and Goodreads.
Thanks to Net Gallery and Inkubator Books for Providing my copy.
March 4, 2022
I enjoy Daniel Hurst's books, The Break did not disappoint. At different times throughout the book I wanted to scream at all the characters, which I believe means it was a great book. I love reading the different POV and trying to guess what each person will do next or is thinking. I wish there was one more twist at the end to leave me wheeling, but the ending was enough to get me to continue to read more from this author!
April 2, 2022
2022 for me has been mainly the year of the thrillers as I have been finding a lot of romance just blah and I can't seem to get into it. As I was scrolling through my kindle, The Break by Daniel Hurst jumped out at me. In The Break, we meet Karen whose relationship has been on the rocks since her husband Peter had an affair and Karen overwhelmed with her children is teetering on the edge. She wants things to go back to normal, but what is normal anymore? When Karen's new friend tells her about a cute Air BnB, she books it and has a nice night away just by herself until she misses her family and heads back home. The whole break though looks like it has been set up as Karen's new friend Eve isn't who she says she is and the Air BnB is the house of the woman who Peter had an affair with. We learn that the woman who Peter had an affair with was weak and committed suicide and now her best friend who we know as Eve wants revenge and so she starts her massive elaborate plan to take everything Peter loves which is his family starting with his wife Karen so he too will know the meaning of loss. This book reminded me a bit of the book The Escape Room by Megan Goldin when an act of revenge was plotted out against those that had hurt the main character's friend. The Break by Daniel Hurst was a good UK brit lit fiction in which despite its slow-paced ness which the British are famous for, the book still kept my attention and I love the twists and turns and couldn't wait for the big reveal.
May 27, 2022
This was, and I can not stress this enough. The WORST book I have read this year. It was not at all suspenseful. Not even a tiny but. I have watched episodes of Are you Afraid of the Dark that were more suspenseful than this book.
Ready.
Husband-wife-2kids.
Husband cheats on wife.
Wife forgives but is distant.
Wife goes to lunch w/friend she met at the gym. Complains she is exhausted. Wants vacation.
Friend suggests this "holiday house"
Wife goes.
"Friend" from gym is the former best friend of the woman husband cheated with.
FFG tries to get husband to cheat w/her.
Wife has good time at holiday house.
She is told (by FFG who is pretending to run this place) she won a free weekend stay.
Husband & Wife go.
Husband realizes it is his mistresses house. Mistress killed herself after he broke it off.
FFG burns their house to the ground while they are gone.
FFG pretends to be holiday house owner offering the family the house while they sort things out from the fire.
FFG burns holiday house with the family in it.
Parents of the mistress pull up while house is on fire bc a neighbor called.
They find FFG hasn't been showing the house to sell like she was supposed to. Also discover she is an arsonist.
Husband shows wife he is a big man & gets the family to safety
Family survives
FFG goes to jail
12 weeks later.
Wife visits FFG in jail.
Says she will eventually forgive her to be the bigger person.
End of book.
What should have been a 30 page short story was 230 pages of predictable garbage.
Ready.
Husband-wife-2kids.
Husband cheats on wife.
Wife forgives but is distant.
Wife goes to lunch w/friend she met at the gym. Complains she is exhausted. Wants vacation.
Friend suggests this "holiday house"
Wife goes.
"Friend" from gym is the former best friend of the woman husband cheated with.
FFG tries to get husband to cheat w/her.
Wife has good time at holiday house.
She is told (by FFG who is pretending to run this place) she won a free weekend stay.
Husband & Wife go.
Husband realizes it is his mistresses house. Mistress killed herself after he broke it off.
FFG burns their house to the ground while they are gone.
FFG pretends to be holiday house owner offering the family the house while they sort things out from the fire.
FFG burns holiday house with the family in it.
Parents of the mistress pull up while house is on fire bc a neighbor called.
They find FFG hasn't been showing the house to sell like she was supposed to. Also discover she is an arsonist.
Husband shows wife he is a big man & gets the family to safety
Family survives
FFG goes to jail
12 weeks later.
Wife visits FFG in jail.
Says she will eventually forgive her to be the bigger person.
End of book.
What should have been a 30 page short story was 230 pages of predictable garbage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2022
I've seen a lot of praise for this author so was keen to try one of his books.
A thriller with three narrators, a wife, her husband and her friend. Strictly no spoilers as the fun is working out what's going on for yourself, suffice to say one of the characters has cheated, one is innocent and one is hellbent on revenge.
The prologue sees the Police picking through the wreckage of a burnt out house, suspected arson.
It's written in a quick and easy style, my favourite part is the villain's plotting, they're very good at being bad.
Generally, I prefer more depth, detail and description in a novel, but while it didn't set my world alight it was fairly entertaining.
Thanks to Netgalley and Inkubator Books
A thriller with three narrators, a wife, her husband and her friend. Strictly no spoilers as the fun is working out what's going on for yourself, suffice to say one of the characters has cheated, one is innocent and one is hellbent on revenge.
The prologue sees the Police picking through the wreckage of a burnt out house, suspected arson.
It's written in a quick and easy style, my favourite part is the villain's plotting, they're very good at being bad.
Generally, I prefer more depth, detail and description in a novel, but while it didn't set my world alight it was fairly entertaining.
Thanks to Netgalley and Inkubator Books
March 3, 2022
https://www.instagram.com/tv/Cao9oktA...
I’m not sure how I feel about this story to be honest. I liked the suspenseful moments and I wanted to know how this will end because I was interested in seeing if the “villain “ will be caught and how much this family has to go through before that. Also to see if Karen will decide to trust her husband and stay with him.
Overall is an addictive story that kept me intrigued throughout the chapters.
3.5 stars NetGalley arc
I’m not sure how I feel about this story to be honest. I liked the suspenseful moments and I wanted to know how this will end because I was interested in seeing if the “villain “ will be caught and how much this family has to go through before that. Also to see if Karen will decide to trust her husband and stay with him.
Overall is an addictive story that kept me intrigued throughout the chapters.
3.5 stars NetGalley arc
April 25, 2022
This was a fun and exciting read. I enjoyed following the sinister plan of Eve and her multiple personalities in the lives of Peter and Karen. Infidelity can make people do crazy, awful things and this story proves that point. Twice. Great premise, good writing, great characters, however, I did notice a couple plot holes I hope were taken care of before publication.
March 25, 2022
A quick read that had me constantly switching between inquisitiveness and dread.
Karen, an overworked mother and wife, is constantly running ragged trying to balance home and work while also dealing with a crumbling marriage. At the end of her tether, Karen decides to go on a solo staycation to a holiday home, recommended by a so-called friend. As she recharges during her mini vacation while her husband Peter fumbles through the daily chores and childcare, little do they know that their every move is being watched by someone who has sworn to take the whole family down.
To begin with, there is no big mystery in this book; the writing is pretty straightforward, almost predictable with no red herrings or plot twists. Despite this, the author amps the tension every few pages, making for a riveting storyline. The protagonist, the antagonist, and the motive are established early on in the story. The entire excitement lies in the execution of the plot which has been done brilliantly.
The characters were depicted exceptionally well. Karen's exhaustion and frustration as well as Peter's feelings of guilt were palpable. But Eve's raging anger flared out like an inferno making one dread whatever was to come next. While Eve's actions may come across as extreme, the story is a fine example of how revenge turns into an all-consuming poison while forgiveness goes a long way in healing and mending relationships.
Overall, a fast-paced, gripping read. Thanks to Netgalley and Inkubator Books for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Karen, an overworked mother and wife, is constantly running ragged trying to balance home and work while also dealing with a crumbling marriage. At the end of her tether, Karen decides to go on a solo staycation to a holiday home, recommended by a so-called friend. As she recharges during her mini vacation while her husband Peter fumbles through the daily chores and childcare, little do they know that their every move is being watched by someone who has sworn to take the whole family down.
To begin with, there is no big mystery in this book; the writing is pretty straightforward, almost predictable with no red herrings or plot twists. Despite this, the author amps the tension every few pages, making for a riveting storyline. The protagonist, the antagonist, and the motive are established early on in the story. The entire excitement lies in the execution of the plot which has been done brilliantly.
The characters were depicted exceptionally well. Karen's exhaustion and frustration as well as Peter's feelings of guilt were palpable. But Eve's raging anger flared out like an inferno making one dread whatever was to come next. While Eve's actions may come across as extreme, the story is a fine example of how revenge turns into an all-consuming poison while forgiveness goes a long way in healing and mending relationships.
Overall, a fast-paced, gripping read. Thanks to Netgalley and Inkubator Books for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2022
I wouldn’t call this a psych thriller. Maybe a domestic thriller. Complete with all the boring domestic tropes of the overworked mum, the dad who strays and the scorned woman. I could hardly get past the pedestrian writing, it was something as creative as a middle schooler would write for a creative writing piece. I feel two stars is a little generous, but one a little harsh. I did finish it, but it didn’t make me feel any better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2024
The Break by Daniel Hurst
Rating (5/5) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another great Daniel Hurst thriller!! A friend seeking revenge, an unfaithful husband, and a trusting wife... A captivating story, full of suspense and the plot of revenge to keep the pages turning! Highly recommend his books … onto the next one
Rating (5/5) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another great Daniel Hurst thriller!! A friend seeking revenge, an unfaithful husband, and a trusting wife... A captivating story, full of suspense and the plot of revenge to keep the pages turning! Highly recommend his books … onto the next one
February 3, 2023
Daniel Hurst is a master of twists and deliciously dramatic stories. He never fails to surprise me with an ending. He gets right into the twisted minds of his antagonists and lays out their thoughts in such intriguing ways.
Karen needs to take a break and go somewhere away from work and family to just have some time to herself. Her friend tells her about a holiday home that she can rent. However, she is being watched - someone is out for revenge.
This was a nail-biter for me! I couldn’t put it down. Suspense, secrets, evil plans: it had everything I love! Another great story by Daniel Hurst!
Karen needs to take a break and go somewhere away from work and family to just have some time to herself. Her friend tells her about a holiday home that she can rent. However, she is being watched - someone is out for revenge.
This was a nail-biter for me! I couldn’t put it down. Suspense, secrets, evil plans: it had everything I love! Another great story by Daniel Hurst!
June 5, 2024
Predictable story, I don’t mind the far fetched story.
Palate cleanser.
Palate cleanser.
August 24, 2022
I'm happy for the outcome, but not my favorite of his books
June 4, 2022
I’ve been meaning to pick up a Daniel Hurst book for a while and finally got the chance recently thanks to a blog tour invite from the lovely Zoe-Lee O’Farrell. And I’m so glad I did as I was immediately drawn to the idea behind this creepy psychological thriller. I mean, what woman hasn’t ever wished she could just go away on her own for a couple of days? Time to chill, read, have a bath, go to the loo etc without the stresses of modern family life. But from reading the first few pages, it becomes pretty obvious very early on that this much desired break has drastic consequences…
Right from the start, I did find Karen to be a rather unsympathetic character so I worried about whether I would actually care about the situation she eventually finds herself in! She’s one of those women for whom life is always a competition-if you’re busy then she’s even busier, no one is as tired as her…well you get the picture! I wondered what attracted her best friend Eve to such a self centred women as childless Eve didn’t seem to have the stresses of family life to give them that connection and it would have wound me up terribly if my friend assumed I was never exhausted just because I didn’t have any kids! So it was such a lovely gesture for Eve to help Karen find a place for a peaceful break away from all her family but one Karen will certainly regret taking! And eventually I did start to worry about why Karen was being targeted and by whom although things become clear quite early on in the proceedings.
The Break was a one sitting read for me and I raced through it desperately looking for what connected the events at the start of the book to those watchful eyes on Karen and her family. It wasn’t a difficult plot to follow but it had an addictive storyline that kept me engaged and glued to the action throughout. I only wish I hadn’t left it so long to discover this author as I thoroughly enjoyed The Break! A gripping and entertaining read!
Right from the start, I did find Karen to be a rather unsympathetic character so I worried about whether I would actually care about the situation she eventually finds herself in! She’s one of those women for whom life is always a competition-if you’re busy then she’s even busier, no one is as tired as her…well you get the picture! I wondered what attracted her best friend Eve to such a self centred women as childless Eve didn’t seem to have the stresses of family life to give them that connection and it would have wound me up terribly if my friend assumed I was never exhausted just because I didn’t have any kids! So it was such a lovely gesture for Eve to help Karen find a place for a peaceful break away from all her family but one Karen will certainly regret taking! And eventually I did start to worry about why Karen was being targeted and by whom although things become clear quite early on in the proceedings.
The Break was a one sitting read for me and I raced through it desperately looking for what connected the events at the start of the book to those watchful eyes on Karen and her family. It wasn’t a difficult plot to follow but it had an addictive storyline that kept me engaged and glued to the action throughout. I only wish I hadn’t left it so long to discover this author as I thoroughly enjoyed The Break! A gripping and entertaining read!
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