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The Homemaker
I pull back the blanket to take another peek at my beautiful baby boy. My heart flatlines. He isn’t there. “Where is he?” I cry, my whole body trembling. But my husband just shakes his head. “Darling… we don’t have a baby.”
What is he talking about? Stumbling to my feet, I look frantically at the highchair, the playmat in the corner, the sofa. I need to find my little boy.
Limbs like ice, I rush toward the stairs, shouting my son’s name. But my husband grabs my arms and gently reminds me there is no baby here.
I can’t listen. I don’t understand how our child isn’t in our home. I don’t know who could have taken him. I just know I have to find him.
Climbing the stairs two at a time, my hand is already stretching toward the nursery door, but my husband overtakes, blocking my way.
He forces me to face him. I think I can hear the baby mobile over the crib. I can practically smell the newborn smell. But my husband sighs and shakes his head.
He says it again, firmly this time, as a tear tracks down my cheek: “We don’t have a baby.”
I blink rapidly, my breathing ragged. I think he expects me to agree. But I know that my son is real. I can feel his weight in my arms. And I will stop at nothing to get him back…
An absolutely gripping psychological thriller that will have your heart racing. Prepare yourself for jaw-dropping, mind-blowing twists! Perfect for fans of addictive page-turners like The Housemaid, The Family Across the Street and The Family Upstairs.
What is he talking about? Stumbling to my feet, I look frantically at the highchair, the playmat in the corner, the sofa. I need to find my little boy.
Limbs like ice, I rush toward the stairs, shouting my son’s name. But my husband grabs my arms and gently reminds me there is no baby here.
I can’t listen. I don’t understand how our child isn’t in our home. I don’t know who could have taken him. I just know I have to find him.
Climbing the stairs two at a time, my hand is already stretching toward the nursery door, but my husband overtakes, blocking my way.
He forces me to face him. I think I can hear the baby mobile over the crib. I can practically smell the newborn smell. But my husband sighs and shakes his head.
He says it again, firmly this time, as a tear tracks down my cheek: “We don’t have a baby.”
I blink rapidly, my breathing ragged. I think he expects me to agree. But I know that my son is real. I can feel his weight in my arms. And I will stop at nothing to get him back…
An absolutely gripping psychological thriller that will have your heart racing. Prepare yourself for jaw-dropping, mind-blowing twists! Perfect for fans of addictive page-turners like The Housemaid, The Family Across the Street and The Family Upstairs.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2023
About the author
Shari J. Ryan
56 books1,890 followersUSA Today and International Bestselling Author, Shari J Ryan, is known for her captivating World War Two Historical Fiction, Women’s Romance Fiction, and gripping Psychological Thriller novels. Each series and standalone contains a wide range of dark suspense and heartbreaking emotions.
Shari has a bachelor's degree in marketing from Johnson & Wales University and started her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer until 2012 when she discovered her passion for writing books. Since then, she has been captivating readers with her compelling storytelling and has written over thirty-five novels with translated publications in twelve languages.
Shari’s talent and dedication have earned her a place on the USA Today Bestseller List, as well as rankings in Amazon’s Top 100, Barnes & Noble’s Top Ten, and iBooks at number one. She has also received two Rone awards for her outstanding work.
Some of Shari’s bestselling books include: “The Stolen Twins,” The Bookseller of Dachau,” “The Doctor’s Daughter,” “The Girl with the Diary,” “Prison Child,” “The Soldier’s Letters,” and “The Lieutenant’s Girl.” These gripping novels are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Shari, a lifelong Boston girl lives in a small town in the suburbs and has a loving marriage with her adored husband. Together, they have two incredible young sons who make make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world.
To learn more about Shari J. Ryan and her captivating books, visit her official website at sharijryan.com
Shari has a bachelor's degree in marketing from Johnson & Wales University and started her career as a graphic artist and freelance writer until 2012 when she discovered her passion for writing books. Since then, she has been captivating readers with her compelling storytelling and has written over thirty-five novels with translated publications in twelve languages.
Shari’s talent and dedication have earned her a place on the USA Today Bestseller List, as well as rankings in Amazon’s Top 100, Barnes & Noble’s Top Ten, and iBooks at number one. She has also received two Rone awards for her outstanding work.
Some of Shari’s bestselling books include: “The Stolen Twins,” The Bookseller of Dachau,” “The Doctor’s Daughter,” “The Girl with the Diary,” “Prison Child,” “The Soldier’s Letters,” and “The Lieutenant’s Girl.” These gripping novels are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Shari, a lifelong Boston girl lives in a small town in the suburbs and has a loving marriage with her adored husband. Together, they have two incredible young sons who make make her feel like the luckiest woman in the world.
To learn more about Shari J. Ryan and her captivating books, visit her official website at sharijryan.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
June 19, 2023
4⭐
Genre ~ psychological thriller
Publication date ~ June 12, 2023
Page Count ~ 344
Audio length ~ 9 hours 12 minutes
Narrator ~ Stephanie Cannon
POV ~ multiple 1st
Featuring ~ dual timeline (now & last year), pregnancy, infertility, postpartum, secrets, lies, assault
Our main characters are all neighbors: Ginger, Peyton & Lincoln & Jenna & Oliver (who are new to the hood).
We've got some unreliableness going on:
~ Jenna because she thinks she had her baby, River, but Oliver and the doctors are telling her he was stillborn.
~ Ginger because her husband is missing and she's doorbell camera happy.
~ Peyton because she is a serial door knocker for an ingredient she just happened to forgot at the store she was just at.
Overall, it was really fast paced and I enjoyed it even though I had a bit of it, but not all of it, worked out.
Narration notes ~ while the narrator did a fine job I think 3 different narrators would have been best, especially since it's 1st person storytelling.
*Thanks to the author, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Genre ~ psychological thriller
Publication date ~ June 12, 2023
Page Count ~ 344
Audio length ~ 9 hours 12 minutes
Narrator ~ Stephanie Cannon
POV ~ multiple 1st
Featuring ~ dual timeline (now & last year), pregnancy, infertility, postpartum, secrets, lies, assault
Our main characters are all neighbors: Ginger, Peyton & Lincoln & Jenna & Oliver (who are new to the hood).
We've got some unreliableness going on:
~ Jenna because she thinks she had her baby, River, but Oliver and the doctors are telling her he was stillborn.
~ Ginger because her husband is missing and she's doorbell camera happy.
~ Peyton because she is a serial door knocker for an ingredient she just happened to forgot at the store she was just at.
Overall, it was really fast paced and I enjoyed it even though I had a bit of it, but not all of it, worked out.
Narration notes ~ while the narrator did a fine job I think 3 different narrators would have been best, especially since it's 1st person storytelling.
*Thanks to the author, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
June 12, 2023
The Homemaker by Shari J. Ryan was a suspenseful psychological thriller mystery. It was the first book that I have read by this author. I noticed that Shari J. Ryan had written several historical fiction novels before she tried her hand in this genre. As a first attempt in the psychological thriller mystery genre I was impressed with her ability to capture my full attention. There were lots of twists and turns within the plot. It was told from the POV of three female narratives in an alternating timeline that switched back and forth from present day to the previous year. The characters were well developed and it was well plotted. I listened to the audiobook of The Homemaker that was very well narrated by Stephanie Cannon. Although Stephanie Cannon did a really good job narrating this book, I felt that it would have been even better if there had been three different narrators that represented each of the three female characters as they expressed their POV. This would have given me a much better understanding of who was saying what. The Homemaker captured my full attention right away. I also loved the cover!
Jenna and Oliver Milligan were newlyweds when they learned that a private listing had come available for a house that was for sale in their desired location. Upon taking possession of the home and moving in they quickly met some of their neighbors. Ginger, an empty nester and older woman greeted them with a welcoming gesture of food and Peyton, a contemporary, who soon became a good friend to Jenna. Very soon into the story, Jenna learned that she and Oliver were pregnant with their first child. Although Jenna had wanted to wait awhile before getting pregnant, she was pleased to discover that she was pregnant. Jenna and Oliver decided on a home birth. They chose a midwife who was recommended by their friend Peyton. Jenna’s pregnancy went well. The night that Jenna went into labor went as expected until Jenna woke up to find out that her baby boy, River, was missing. Oliver softly reminded Jenna that River had been stillborn. Jenna distinctly remembered holding River and feeling his feather wisps of baby hair. Had Jenna just imagined that? Was Oliver right? Struggling with the truth of what really happened, Jenna felt that she had to come to terms with everything that had transpired since the birth of her son. Had Jenna lost her precious baby boy in childbirth?
There were secrets galore throughout the pages of this addictive story. The Homemaker introduced themes of friendship, family, marriage, neighbors, mental health, rape, abortion, pregnancy, home births, midwives vs. hospitals, drug dependency and secrets and lies. The ending of this book left me quite confused. I’m still not sure what the ending was trying to convey. Beside the ending, I enjoyed all the drama that occurred in this neighborhood. Although I was able to guess a twist in the plot, it did not take away from the overall enjoyment I had of listening to this audiobook. I hope that Shari J. Ryan writes more books in this genre. I am a big fan! I highly recommend The Homemaker.
Thank you to Bookouture Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Homemaker by Shari J. Ryan through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Jenna and Oliver Milligan were newlyweds when they learned that a private listing had come available for a house that was for sale in their desired location. Upon taking possession of the home and moving in they quickly met some of their neighbors. Ginger, an empty nester and older woman greeted them with a welcoming gesture of food and Peyton, a contemporary, who soon became a good friend to Jenna. Very soon into the story, Jenna learned that she and Oliver were pregnant with their first child. Although Jenna had wanted to wait awhile before getting pregnant, she was pleased to discover that she was pregnant. Jenna and Oliver decided on a home birth. They chose a midwife who was recommended by their friend Peyton. Jenna’s pregnancy went well. The night that Jenna went into labor went as expected until Jenna woke up to find out that her baby boy, River, was missing. Oliver softly reminded Jenna that River had been stillborn. Jenna distinctly remembered holding River and feeling his feather wisps of baby hair. Had Jenna just imagined that? Was Oliver right? Struggling with the truth of what really happened, Jenna felt that she had to come to terms with everything that had transpired since the birth of her son. Had Jenna lost her precious baby boy in childbirth?
There were secrets galore throughout the pages of this addictive story. The Homemaker introduced themes of friendship, family, marriage, neighbors, mental health, rape, abortion, pregnancy, home births, midwives vs. hospitals, drug dependency and secrets and lies. The ending of this book left me quite confused. I’m still not sure what the ending was trying to convey. Beside the ending, I enjoyed all the drama that occurred in this neighborhood. Although I was able to guess a twist in the plot, it did not take away from the overall enjoyment I had of listening to this audiobook. I hope that Shari J. Ryan writes more books in this genre. I am a big fan! I highly recommend The Homemaker.
Thank you to Bookouture Audio for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of The Homemaker by Shari J. Ryan through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 5, 2023
This twisty domestic thriller was dizzying.
DIZZYING?
The book unfolded from the POVs of 3 female unreliable narrators -- frequently jumping back and forth from past to present.
Other characters introduced were spouses, a mother, sons, and neighbors.
By the time the "finish line" was reached and the book ended, I was suffering from an acute case of motion sickness.
Even with motion sickness, I was able to easily predict the book's major twist.
In addition to being dizzying, the book suffered from plot holes and waaay too many "this would never happen in real life" moments.
To avoid spoilers, I will refrain from citing specific examples.
I listened to the audiobook read by Stephanie Cannon, who did an outstanding job with the narration.
This being said, the book would have benefited from three narrators reading the three different POVs.
This was a 9.5-hour audiobook that easily could have been a 7-hour audiobook.
TRIGGERS: Pregnancy loss, Sexual assault
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars, rounded up.
DIZZYING?
The book unfolded from the POVs of 3 female unreliable narrators -- frequently jumping back and forth from past to present.
Other characters introduced were spouses, a mother, sons, and neighbors.
By the time the "finish line" was reached and the book ended, I was suffering from an acute case of motion sickness.
Even with motion sickness, I was able to easily predict the book's major twist.
In addition to being dizzying, the book suffered from plot holes and waaay too many "this would never happen in real life" moments.
To avoid spoilers, I will refrain from citing specific examples.
I listened to the audiobook read by Stephanie Cannon, who did an outstanding job with the narration.
This being said, the book would have benefited from three narrators reading the three different POVs.
This was a 9.5-hour audiobook that easily could have been a 7-hour audiobook.
TRIGGERS: Pregnancy loss, Sexual assault
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars, rounded up.
June 17, 2023
Oh my days.
This book! It takes you down some windy, twisty roads that's for sure! And they're pretty dark and sinister too.
The first few chapters hooked me straight away and I was desperate to find out what was going on with Jenna and her missing newborn.
The second perspective of Ginger that soon gets introduced had me a little side-stepped wondering what the connection was to Jenna's story, but I loved going between both characters as I tried to join the dots.
There are several characters and time frames to keep track of, but if you can, it's worth it!
This book! It takes you down some windy, twisty roads that's for sure! And they're pretty dark and sinister too.
The first few chapters hooked me straight away and I was desperate to find out what was going on with Jenna and her missing newborn.
The second perspective of Ginger that soon gets introduced had me a little side-stepped wondering what the connection was to Jenna's story, but I loved going between both characters as I tried to join the dots.
There are several characters and time frames to keep track of, but if you can, it's worth it!
June 7, 2023
This proves Shari 'Midas' Ryan's ability to turn any genre she writes into a bestseller! Her first psychological thriller is a 5-star.
For me, Shari J. Ryan used to be synonymous with holocaust fiction - as of this book, that’s all changed. I’ll now be able to connect this auto-read author with suspense/thrillers, too. Ryan already knows how to write an enthralling historical fiction story that readers can’t put down, so it was great to see her put a spin on building compelling conflict and suspense into her repertoire and continue to engage her readers with a successful thriller. Congratulations!
What I loved:
✔️I was continuously looking for clues to measure reality. Was what I was reading true? How did I know? Could the m/c recollections/instinct be untrue?
✔️Multiple unreliable narrators
✔️Multiple POVs
✔️Unforeseen twists
✔️Well-developed characters with layered motives
✔️Neighbourhood with secrets
✔️Back to front story with puzzle pieces to fit in
✔️Swept away with paranoia and frustration
✔️An ending that makes me think
✔️knowing that something isn't quite right, but not being able to put my finger on it
What an unexpected thrill! I can't wait to see what she writes next.
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
For me, Shari J. Ryan used to be synonymous with holocaust fiction - as of this book, that’s all changed. I’ll now be able to connect this auto-read author with suspense/thrillers, too. Ryan already knows how to write an enthralling historical fiction story that readers can’t put down, so it was great to see her put a spin on building compelling conflict and suspense into her repertoire and continue to engage her readers with a successful thriller. Congratulations!
What I loved:
✔️I was continuously looking for clues to measure reality. Was what I was reading true? How did I know? Could the m/c recollections/instinct be untrue?
✔️Multiple unreliable narrators
✔️Multiple POVs
✔️Unforeseen twists
✔️Well-developed characters with layered motives
✔️Neighbourhood with secrets
✔️Back to front story with puzzle pieces to fit in
✔️Swept away with paranoia and frustration
✔️An ending that makes me think
✔️knowing that something isn't quite right, but not being able to put my finger on it
What an unexpected thrill! I can't wait to see what she writes next.
I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 29, 2023
This book was fantastic, and so much more than how the synopsis made it sound. The story centers on 3 women: Jenna, Peyton, and Ginger. The latter two are already neighbors when Jenna moves in. We know there are some chinks in the relationships between all 3, and also some suspicion around the couple that lived in Jenna’s house previously, but it was impossible for me to figure out who is really unstable and who is lying. When the unthinkable happens and Jenna is told that her baby was stillborn, it all comes to a head, and the reader is brought along on the journey through a mixture of past and present timelines and alternating POVs.
I really couldn’t figure out who was telling the truth; I love to be kept guessing! All of the characters shifted between behaviors that made sense and behaviors that didn’t. That being said, I could empathize with all of them in one way or another. I went back and forth the entire book trying to figure out what was really happening. I figured out one of the major twists but there were others that totally surprised me. I liked the end for the most part was confused about the very last page- I went back and read the chapter and still wasn’t entirely sure what the very end was referencing.
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic book and I finished it over a period of a few hours. I’m rating it 4.5 vs 5 just because I was somewhat perplexed by the very end, but would definitely recommend it to those who like the domestic suspense genre. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really couldn’t figure out who was telling the truth; I love to be kept guessing! All of the characters shifted between behaviors that made sense and behaviors that didn’t. That being said, I could empathize with all of them in one way or another. I went back and forth the entire book trying to figure out what was really happening. I figured out one of the major twists but there were others that totally surprised me. I liked the end for the most part was confused about the very last page- I went back and read the chapter and still wasn’t entirely sure what the very end was referencing.
Overall, I thought this was a fantastic book and I finished it over a period of a few hours. I’m rating it 4.5 vs 5 just because I was somewhat perplexed by the very end, but would definitely recommend it to those who like the domestic suspense genre. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2023
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for another awesome read!! The Homemaker was UNREAL, sooooooo Good! It started with so many different stories going on with the neighbors. What a plot, I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this novel. Sick and twisty characters, I’m sad I’m done reading it.
June 5, 2023
The Homemaker was a heartbreaker! It has a lot of emotion in a neatly wrapped package.
We're thrown right into the flow of things in the neighborhood, which is how I like it. I like to learn as I go, not be bored to tears in the first half for the sake of a few back stories.
Jenna is moving to this charming little street with her husband Oliver. She quickly meets Ginger, the empty nester, and Peyton, the younger woman who makes life look easy but you know deep down, she's struggling.
Jenna also knows that something tragic happened to the former house occupants so when tragedy strikes for them, she wishes they'd never moved here.
You see, Jenna fell pregnant soon after moving in and her home birth went wrong and the baby was stillborn.. or was it? Jenna is having a hard time accepting this so she's determined to seek the truth, even if it hurts.
I sensed something wicked was afoot early on, and I was quickly sucked in. This all seemed like part of a bigger plan and everything makes sense in the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to listen and review. The narration was wonderful. This was my first by this author but won't be my last.
We're thrown right into the flow of things in the neighborhood, which is how I like it. I like to learn as I go, not be bored to tears in the first half for the sake of a few back stories.
Jenna is moving to this charming little street with her husband Oliver. She quickly meets Ginger, the empty nester, and Peyton, the younger woman who makes life look easy but you know deep down, she's struggling.
Jenna also knows that something tragic happened to the former house occupants so when tragedy strikes for them, she wishes they'd never moved here.
You see, Jenna fell pregnant soon after moving in and her home birth went wrong and the baby was stillborn.. or was it? Jenna is having a hard time accepting this so she's determined to seek the truth, even if it hurts.
I sensed something wicked was afoot early on, and I was quickly sucked in. This all seemed like part of a bigger plan and everything makes sense in the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to listen and review. The narration was wonderful. This was my first by this author but won't be my last.
May 31, 2023
The long and the short of it in this book is that Jenna is apparently experiencing some sort of psychosis after giving birth to her precious baby boy that she was to call River. However, not only does Jenna find herself inpatient due to a mental health crisis, she learns that she does not indeed have a baby.
The way Shari J. Ryan wrote this story was to bring in some events from the past. The fact that Jenna, a knowledgeable and well-spoken attorney who has experienced the unthinkable, was handled quite well. This is a story of misdirection, and although I figured it out at about the 70% mark, I was intrigued as to the past and motives of all of the characters, thus making this a compelling one-sitting read.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The way Shari J. Ryan wrote this story was to bring in some events from the past. The fact that Jenna, a knowledgeable and well-spoken attorney who has experienced the unthinkable, was handled quite well. This is a story of misdirection, and although I figured it out at about the 70% mark, I was intrigued as to the past and motives of all of the characters, thus making this a compelling one-sitting read.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
August 17, 2023
I really loved and enjoyed this psychological thriller, set in America.
The story is about three women, called Ginger, Jenna and Peyton, who all live in the same area. Jenna gives birth to a baby boy called River, who she is told has been born sleeping. But she can remember giving birth to him and cuddling him while he was looking up at her, so she is very confused. What has happened to her baby boy? Why are the people around her telling her that he has died?
This is a really great book, which is full of drama and suspense. I loved the narrator of the story, who did a fantastic job. I really liked her voice. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
The story is about three women, called Ginger, Jenna and Peyton, who all live in the same area. Jenna gives birth to a baby boy called River, who she is told has been born sleeping. But she can remember giving birth to him and cuddling him while he was looking up at her, so she is very confused. What has happened to her baby boy? Why are the people around her telling her that he has died?
This is a really great book, which is full of drama and suspense. I loved the narrator of the story, who did a fantastic job. I really liked her voice. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
May 26, 2023
What a wild and crazy ride this one is! The story is about three women, Peyton, Ginger, and Jenna, who are all neighbors on Sapphire Road in the quaint town of Larkspur, Delaware. And life there seems destined to unfold in the most unusual way possible.
Jenna and her husband Oliver are starting a new chapter in their life by purchasing a home on Sapphire Road. It's a family neighborhood where everyone watches out for everyone else and milestones are celebrated by the community. But it's not long before Jenna learns that Sapphire Road holds secrets that could threaten her ideal life.
Compelling, gripping, and masterfully told, this one will keep you guessing. Just when you think you’ve figured it all out, another shocking twist pops up to prove you wrong. Perfect for a Lifetime Movie Network main feature, this psychological thriller is a shocking, edge-of-your-seat, adrenaline-fueled read. If you’re at all a fan of the genre, you'll want to run to the 1-Click and start reading this one today. But you may want to leave a light on.
Jenna and her husband Oliver are starting a new chapter in their life by purchasing a home on Sapphire Road. It's a family neighborhood where everyone watches out for everyone else and milestones are celebrated by the community. But it's not long before Jenna learns that Sapphire Road holds secrets that could threaten her ideal life.
Compelling, gripping, and masterfully told, this one will keep you guessing. Just when you think you’ve figured it all out, another shocking twist pops up to prove you wrong. Perfect for a Lifetime Movie Network main feature, this psychological thriller is a shocking, edge-of-your-seat, adrenaline-fueled read. If you’re at all a fan of the genre, you'll want to run to the 1-Click and start reading this one today. But you may want to leave a light on.
June 11, 2023
The Homemaker is a psychological thriller written by Shari J. Ryan. This is her first time writing in this genre. She’s known for writing historical fiction, which I love. Shari did not disappoint with this story, kudos to you! Recent past and present narrative points of view provided insight into each of the characteristics. The twists and turns will keep you on your toes until the very end.
The Homemaker centers on three women, Jenna, Peyton, and Ginger. Peyton and Ginger already live in the neighborhood. Jenna and her husband Oliver have recently moved in. Jenna meets Ginger, an empty nester, and Peyton, who’s younger and appears to have it all, looks can be deceiving.
Jenna learns that something tragic happened to the former homeowner. She wonders if the house has a bad omen. When Jenna becomes pregnant, her life will take a drastic turn…. leaving Jenna devastated. Until the pieces to the puzzle don't add up, Jenna becomes determined to seek the truth out. Even if it hurts her. What will she discover? When the secrets and lies are revealed, the people of Sapphire Road's lives will begin to crumble!
I found this story intriguing, it kept me guessing until the very end. My heart broke for Jenna. Her life with Oliver was picture-perfect until it wasn't. I highly recommend reading this one.
The Homemaker centers on three women, Jenna, Peyton, and Ginger. Peyton and Ginger already live in the neighborhood. Jenna and her husband Oliver have recently moved in. Jenna meets Ginger, an empty nester, and Peyton, who’s younger and appears to have it all, looks can be deceiving.
Jenna learns that something tragic happened to the former homeowner. She wonders if the house has a bad omen. When Jenna becomes pregnant, her life will take a drastic turn…. leaving Jenna devastated. Until the pieces to the puzzle don't add up, Jenna becomes determined to seek the truth out. Even if it hurts her. What will she discover? When the secrets and lies are revealed, the people of Sapphire Road's lives will begin to crumble!
I found this story intriguing, it kept me guessing until the very end. My heart broke for Jenna. Her life with Oliver was picture-perfect until it wasn't. I highly recommend reading this one.
June 12, 2023
WOW!
I've read two book so far by Shari and they were two beautiful stories about the Holocaust. When she told the world about her first thriller book I was SO excited!
And let me tell you... I could NOT put it down. eeeek. I loved every single thing about this book.
This book is written in three different POV's (3 women) and also two different timelines. so you kinda have a "then" and "now".
You will meet Oliver and Jenna (1 POV). The new couple of this mysterious neighborhood.
Next you have another couple, Peyton (2 POV) and Lincoln. They are newlyweds as well.
Last but not least you have Ginger, an elderly women, who raised three boys. She lives alone with her cat, and her security cameras so she can check on her safety.. oh and also spy on anyone lol.
In the "now" Jenna and Oliver baby died right after being born... but why? and why can't Jenna remember her own child being dead?
I don't wanna spoil but I kept on guessing and I was so sure that I had it all figured out but I didn't until the very end. I really couldn't figure out who was telling the truth I even doubted Jenna and her husband and I doubted everyone at one point lmao.
as always in the beginning confusing with so many characters and the timeline but if u write it down once or if u keep going it will all make sense and I really felt like I was just another neighbor in that crazy neighborhood.
absolutely loved it. Shari, u did it again. Thank you for the ARC Bookouture. <3
I've read two book so far by Shari and they were two beautiful stories about the Holocaust. When she told the world about her first thriller book I was SO excited!
And let me tell you... I could NOT put it down. eeeek. I loved every single thing about this book.
This book is written in three different POV's (3 women) and also two different timelines. so you kinda have a "then" and "now".
You will meet Oliver and Jenna (1 POV). The new couple of this mysterious neighborhood.
Next you have another couple, Peyton (2 POV) and Lincoln. They are newlyweds as well.
Last but not least you have Ginger, an elderly women, who raised three boys. She lives alone with her cat, and her security cameras so she can check on her safety.. oh and also spy on anyone lol.
In the "now" Jenna and Oliver baby died right after being born... but why? and why can't Jenna remember her own child being dead?
I don't wanna spoil but I kept on guessing and I was so sure that I had it all figured out but I didn't until the very end. I really couldn't figure out who was telling the truth I even doubted Jenna and her husband and I doubted everyone at one point lmao.
as always in the beginning confusing with so many characters and the timeline but if u write it down once or if u keep going it will all make sense and I really felt like I was just another neighbor in that crazy neighborhood.
absolutely loved it. Shari, u did it again. Thank you for the ARC Bookouture. <3
June 8, 2023
Wow, just wow! What a thriller! This reminded me a little bit of The Real Housewives, pregnant edition. I've read so many books about women suffering from postpartum depression, or postpartum psychosis. Some have had stillborn babies and have actually stolen other babies because they were under a psychotic delusion that the baby was theirs. This is a little bit along those lines, but not entirely.
The story is told from three points of you. Ginger: a devoted woman who has four boys that are all grown now, and the youngest one just went off to college. Her husband just skipped out on her, no reason given. Her sons think she had something to do with it.
Then there is Jenna: Jenna just moved into the neighborhood with her husband, Oliver. She is a young attorney for children in her early 30s. She gets pregnant right away and wants to have a home burn.. Something happened in her house that made it so really quickly. She wants to get to the bottom of it but doesn't know what to believe.
Lastly, there is Peyton: Peyton is married to Lincoln and is always borrowing ingredients for her recipes from Ginger. She and Jenna become close with both become pregnant. She and Jenna become pregnant at the same time.
Jenna has her baby boy, River, but everything is really foggy to her, and she remembers very little about her son and the birth. Her husband told her that she had a stillborn baby boy. Jenna insists her baby boy is still alive and has some sort of a psychotic break down. She has sent to a mental hospital for several weeks to recover from losing her son in such a sad way. She does eventually recover and comes back home. She asked about Peyton's baby and she had her baby. Why is Peyton staying away from her? Is she afraid that she might have a bad reaction to seeing that she had a healthy baby boy?
There are a lot of twists to the story. Some that I didn't see coming. I really like the way the story wrapped up. This would make a good Lifetime movie!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told from three points of you. Ginger: a devoted woman who has four boys that are all grown now, and the youngest one just went off to college. Her husband just skipped out on her, no reason given. Her sons think she had something to do with it.
Then there is Jenna: Jenna just moved into the neighborhood with her husband, Oliver. She is a young attorney for children in her early 30s. She gets pregnant right away and wants to have a home burn.. Something happened in her house that made it so really quickly. She wants to get to the bottom of it but doesn't know what to believe.
Lastly, there is Peyton: Peyton is married to Lincoln and is always borrowing ingredients for her recipes from Ginger. She and Jenna become close with both become pregnant. She and Jenna become pregnant at the same time.
Jenna has her baby boy, River, but everything is really foggy to her, and she remembers very little about her son and the birth. Her husband told her that she had a stillborn baby boy. Jenna insists her baby boy is still alive and has some sort of a psychotic break down. She has sent to a mental hospital for several weeks to recover from losing her son in such a sad way. She does eventually recover and comes back home. She asked about Peyton's baby and she had her baby. Why is Peyton staying away from her? Is she afraid that she might have a bad reaction to seeing that she had a healthy baby boy?
There are a lot of twists to the story. Some that I didn't see coming. I really like the way the story wrapped up. This would make a good Lifetime movie!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2023
Unreliable narrators (yes, plural)? Check.
Multiple suspects? Check.
Constantly questioning what is reality? Check.
Husband possibly making the wife think she's losing her mind? Check.
I loved this book. It's one of my favorite thriller tropes tbh.
Halfway through I thought I had it all figured out, but there were a couple twists in there that made this one stand out. I honestly want to reread already to catch on to the things I missed.
Unreliable narrators are so fun, especially when there are multiples.
Thank you for the e-arc of this book. I can't wait for it to publish so I can order the physical copy!
Multiple suspects? Check.
Constantly questioning what is reality? Check.
Husband possibly making the wife think she's losing her mind? Check.
I loved this book. It's one of my favorite thriller tropes tbh.
Halfway through I thought I had it all figured out, but there were a couple twists in there that made this one stand out. I honestly want to reread already to catch on to the things I missed.
Unreliable narrators are so fun, especially when there are multiples.
Thank you for the e-arc of this book. I can't wait for it to publish so I can order the physical copy!
June 7, 2023
Holy Moly, hold on because you are in for the ride of your life!!!
Shari J. Ryan knocked it out of the park. This was my first book from this author, and it will not be my last. The story was spread out by three female POV’s (Jenna, Ginger, and Peyton) with a past and present narrative. Although I would have preferred multiple narrators for this audible version, Stephanie Cannon did a great job keeping it well paced and enjoyable!
I was captivated from the first page, and it piqued my interest the entire way through. Ginger and Peyton had welcoming arms when their new neighbors Jenna and Oliver moved into their charming little town. However, the upcoming twists and thrilling ride of Jenna and Oliver's new life will begin to unfold. It started by falling in love, marrying your best friend, having a career you worked so hard for, and starting a family…. Who would have thought this fairytale would become your worst nightmare? Jenna’s story as a new mother suffering from postpartum depression after delivering her stillborn son River leaves one having chills and eyes filled with tears. This story and its plot have so much emotion… pain… and frustration built up that the ending will have one gasping for air when you didn’t even realize you were holding your breath!
Book publication is dated for June 12, 2023. This is the perfect summer read. Get on and pre-order this one today! I promise that you will not regret it!
Trigger warnings: pregnancy loss, sexual assault, mental health
I would like to end this review with a special thank you to #NetGalley and #Bookouture for allowing me to have an advance audible copy of the #TheHomemaker in return for a reputable honest review.
Shari J. Ryan knocked it out of the park. This was my first book from this author, and it will not be my last. The story was spread out by three female POV’s (Jenna, Ginger, and Peyton) with a past and present narrative. Although I would have preferred multiple narrators for this audible version, Stephanie Cannon did a great job keeping it well paced and enjoyable!
I was captivated from the first page, and it piqued my interest the entire way through. Ginger and Peyton had welcoming arms when their new neighbors Jenna and Oliver moved into their charming little town. However, the upcoming twists and thrilling ride of Jenna and Oliver's new life will begin to unfold. It started by falling in love, marrying your best friend, having a career you worked so hard for, and starting a family…. Who would have thought this fairytale would become your worst nightmare? Jenna’s story as a new mother suffering from postpartum depression after delivering her stillborn son River leaves one having chills and eyes filled with tears. This story and its plot have so much emotion… pain… and frustration built up that the ending will have one gasping for air when you didn’t even realize you were holding your breath!
Book publication is dated for June 12, 2023. This is the perfect summer read. Get on and pre-order this one today! I promise that you will not regret it!
Trigger warnings: pregnancy loss, sexual assault, mental health
I would like to end this review with a special thank you to #NetGalley and #Bookouture for allowing me to have an advance audible copy of the #TheHomemaker in return for a reputable honest review.
June 6, 2023
I received the ARC for my honest review. I absolutely loved this book, and easily one of the top thriller mysteries that I listened to this year. The author holds you in suspense throughout the entire book, and not until the end of the book do you realize that everyone’s lives are all connected by one person’s persuasion on them. Then when the main character starts connecting the dots and realizing that her best friend and husband are not who they seem.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2023
Clear your schedule this is a book you won’t be able to put down. The characters are well developed and the story is captivating. It’s told from the perspective of 3 people and normally that puts me off but it works well in this setting.
June 11, 2023
Many thanks to Net Galley and Bookouture Audio for an audio copy of The Homemaker for an honest review.
This story blew me away. I thought it was woven perfectly into a great mystery. 5 stars!!!
This story blew me away. I thought it was woven perfectly into a great mystery. 5 stars!!!
June 12, 2023
Finding the perfect house on the perfect street in the perfect town that is the perfect distance from work should be…well, perfect. Jenna and Oliver find a house that checks all their boxes. They meet a few of their new neighbors who seem to be harboring some secrets of their own and about the house’s previous owner. Jenna becomes inseparable with neighbor Peyton and both find themselves pregnant at the same time.
After giving birth to her son, River, Jenna is unable to get out of bed or be productive. When she’s told that River didn’t survive, she is overcome with denial. She remembers holding him, seeing his eyes fresh in the world, smelling his baby smell. Oliver puts her in a behavioral health center where she must confront the demons of what really happened. Meanwhile, we continue to piece together the fractured relationship between neighbors Peyton and Ginger, as well as clues into what they know and who they are. Is there something about Jenna’s house that makes them believe that her house is cursed?
This is my first Shari J. Ryan thriller I’ve read. I have read several of her historical fiction books. While the first half of the book was confusing me somewhat with the three main characters and trying to figure out what was exactly going on, in the back of my mind (a) I knew I had to keep reading and wouldn’t be disappointed and (b) I knew there was something about one of the neighbors (not spoiling by saying which one, but I was right) that didn’t quite add up. After the halfway mark, it all sped up and kept me hooked until the finish. The Homemaker is a great summer read, so make sure you go out and buy it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own. This book is set for publication on June 11, 2023.
#netgalley #arc #bookstagram #sharijryan #thehomemaker #bookouture
After giving birth to her son, River, Jenna is unable to get out of bed or be productive. When she’s told that River didn’t survive, she is overcome with denial. She remembers holding him, seeing his eyes fresh in the world, smelling his baby smell. Oliver puts her in a behavioral health center where she must confront the demons of what really happened. Meanwhile, we continue to piece together the fractured relationship between neighbors Peyton and Ginger, as well as clues into what they know and who they are. Is there something about Jenna’s house that makes them believe that her house is cursed?
This is my first Shari J. Ryan thriller I’ve read. I have read several of her historical fiction books. While the first half of the book was confusing me somewhat with the three main characters and trying to figure out what was exactly going on, in the back of my mind (a) I knew I had to keep reading and wouldn’t be disappointed and (b) I knew there was something about one of the neighbors (not spoiling by saying which one, but I was right) that didn’t quite add up. After the halfway mark, it all sped up and kept me hooked until the finish. The Homemaker is a great summer read, so make sure you go out and buy it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own. This book is set for publication on June 11, 2023.
#netgalley #arc #bookstagram #sharijryan #thehomemaker #bookouture
June 12, 2023
Shari, girl, I love you….but what in the hell did I just read???? OMG! I literally could NOT put this book down. This was a ‘sitting on the edge of my seat the entire book’ story! The twists, the turns, the pain and frustration. There for awhile I thought I was going crazy! Absolutely a mind twisting story with so many amazing characters. I honestly couldn’t figure out what was going on! This one will make YOU sit on the edge of your seat! The story woven between these pages is horrifying and will give you the chills….but, in a good way! Freaking amazing!!
June 5, 2023
This book totally reminded me of Astoria Lane… It is so layered and to give a summary in itself is perplexing because whose summary should I give you ginger whose husband is missing, Llewellyn who is husband was murdered in a premeditated car accident or Peyton who herself has many POV‘s. Maybe I should start with Jen who leans over to look at her beautiful baby River, oh wait to find an empty child seat with the blanket she needed. When she panics and asked about the whereabouts of her baby her husband Owen tries to be accommodating but it’s failing all she wants to know is where is her baby and all he wants her to do is to calm down. This is a cluster crunch of great thriller twist and turns with more than one juicy story line. If you were tired of all the same tropes and thrillers then rest a sure the HomeMaker is the “different” you were looking for. Just a couple of words of advice one make sure you have time to read this because things will fall by the way side and you won’t even know time is passing and to be prepared for a wild ride! I have never before read a book by this author but I will definitely be following her on every platform I can this is a brilliant, brilliant, brilliant book and one I highly highly recommend a definite five star read! I received this book from NetGalley and Bookoucher but I am definitely leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
June 15, 2023
The Homemaker is a very good psychological thriller filled with lots of suspense. With three main female characters you really won’t know who to trust. The book contains quite a few characters and it did take me a few chapters to get to know who everyone was, but once I did that the story flowed excellently. Jenna has supposedly given birth to a baby boy called River but what has happened to him as there doesn’t appear to be any sign of her newborn. From the very start I was rooting for Jenna but couldn’t figure out what was going on. Ginger and Peyton are the other female main characters and what is their connection to all this ? I loved each chapter pertaining to these characters and trying to figure out it all. Overall this is a great read that will have you frantically turning the pages trying to work everything out.
June 21, 2023
Jenna and her husband Oliver have moved to the perfect house within the neighborhood of their dreams but, Sapphire Street in the picturesque Lakespur is no ordinary street. The houses hold secrets and the neighbours aren't always who they appear to be. The idyllic life Jenna and Oliver crave may not be so dreamy after all.
Who can be trusted?
Who's secrets are about to be spilled?
Can you trust your neighbours?
Can you really trust your husband?
.
.
Shari normally writes historical fiction novels and I'm a huge fan of her books and also, very lucky to be part of her arc team so when she told us she was writing a new book with a twist I was so excited and here it is her first venture into the psychological thriller world and she smashed it!
Multi POV. Then / Now timeline this one gave me Desperate Housewives meets The Hand That Rocks The Cradle vibes. I really enjoyed this one it was a solid standalone thriller with a great story and the perfect amount of twists and turns!
Who can be trusted?
Who's secrets are about to be spilled?
Can you trust your neighbours?
Can you really trust your husband?
.
.
Shari normally writes historical fiction novels and I'm a huge fan of her books and also, very lucky to be part of her arc team so when she told us she was writing a new book with a twist I was so excited and here it is her first venture into the psychological thriller world and she smashed it!
Multi POV. Then / Now timeline this one gave me Desperate Housewives meets The Hand That Rocks The Cradle vibes. I really enjoyed this one it was a solid standalone thriller with a great story and the perfect amount of twists and turns!
June 7, 2023
The Homemaker, by Shari J. Ryan
Holy Moly! A devastatingly brilliant book!
Jenna is a lawyer with a wonderful husband and a gorgeous house in an idyllic neighbourhood. After the birth of her son, River, she is admitted to a psychiatric hospital and questioned about her drug use.
Jenna is told that her baby boy was stillborn, but she just can’t and won’t believe it. She remembers the warmth of him, remembers looking into his eyes and remembers hearing his first cry.
The main characters in the book aside from Jenna, are Ginger and Peyton, her neighbours. They were great characters and the suspense as to what their involvement could be was built with clever hooks, twists and reveals throughout the story.
Jenna is an intelligent woman and she knows she’s not a drug user, she knows she doesn’t have psychiatric issues, but she’s powerless to prove anything, while she’s in the hospital.
I just couldn’t imagine being in that position. I felt terrified for her! I loved this intriguing mystery.
Narration by Stephanie Cannon was excellent. Clear, well paced and great expression.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Holy Moly! A devastatingly brilliant book!
Jenna is a lawyer with a wonderful husband and a gorgeous house in an idyllic neighbourhood. After the birth of her son, River, she is admitted to a psychiatric hospital and questioned about her drug use.
Jenna is told that her baby boy was stillborn, but she just can’t and won’t believe it. She remembers the warmth of him, remembers looking into his eyes and remembers hearing his first cry.
The main characters in the book aside from Jenna, are Ginger and Peyton, her neighbours. They were great characters and the suspense as to what their involvement could be was built with clever hooks, twists and reveals throughout the story.
Jenna is an intelligent woman and she knows she’s not a drug user, she knows she doesn’t have psychiatric issues, but she’s powerless to prove anything, while she’s in the hospital.
I just couldn’t imagine being in that position. I felt terrified for her! I loved this intriguing mystery.
Narration by Stephanie Cannon was excellent. Clear, well paced and great expression.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
June 5, 2023
Holy mother of twists! I seriously enjoyed this audiobook, and the narration by Stephanie Cannon was brilliant.
This was my first book by this author, but it won't be my last.
She crafted a wickedly twisted story with multiple POV, shifting from the past to the present, but found it easy to follow along once I was invested in the characters.
I think everyone will enjoy this fantastic book. I know I couldn't stop listening.
Thank you to Bookature Audio, Netgally and ShariJ.Ryan (author) for this advanced copy. Reviews and opinions are all my own and voluntary.
This was my first book by this author, but it won't be my last.
She crafted a wickedly twisted story with multiple POV, shifting from the past to the present, but found it easy to follow along once I was invested in the characters.
I think everyone will enjoy this fantastic book. I know I couldn't stop listening.
Thank you to Bookature Audio, Netgally and ShariJ.Ryan (author) for this advanced copy. Reviews and opinions are all my own and voluntary.
May 31, 2023
This was an amazing read. Shari J Ryan always keeps one with that "Can't put the book down" feeling. Sometimes it put you on the edge of your seat. Unfortunately, I could see this story come to life as the world of today seems to be going crazy. This is the story of newlyweds that have dreamed of living in a family neighborhood. When Oliver finds the perfect old house, Jenna is thrilled to move in to it. Little does she know her life will be turned upside down with a twist at the end. Ms. Ryan has become my new favorite author. Her stories are fiction but one gets lost in the world she has created. Love, drama and mystery are rolled together to create a heart wrenching story. A must read for this summer.
June 6, 2023
All I have to say is WOW.
This was my first introduction to Shari J Ryan and I was absolutely blown away. I was on the edge of my seat as the twists began to unfold.
It’s hard to summarize without giving much away but the blurb does not do Justice to this story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Shari J Ryan and Bookcouture Audio for this ARC.
This was my first introduction to Shari J Ryan and I was absolutely blown away. I was on the edge of my seat as the twists began to unfold.
It’s hard to summarize without giving much away but the blurb does not do Justice to this story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Shari J Ryan and Bookcouture Audio for this ARC.
May 30, 2023
The Homemaker by new to me author, Shari J Ryan was one of my favorite books of the year so far. This book had me captivated from the first chapter and I couldn't put it down once I started reading.
This story of three neighbors who lived on a idyllic street, is told from several points of view and it absolutely worked for this story. Jenna, Ginger and Peyton were complex characters and it was hard to know who to trust as the book goes back and forth from past to present. The plot was well thought out and the writing was top notch.
I am looking forward to reading more books by this author!
I received an advance review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story of three neighbors who lived on a idyllic street, is told from several points of view and it absolutely worked for this story. Jenna, Ginger and Peyton were complex characters and it was hard to know who to trust as the book goes back and forth from past to present. The plot was well thought out and the writing was top notch.
I am looking forward to reading more books by this author!
I received an advance review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
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