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Don't Tell a Soul
She thinks she’s safe. She couldn’t be more wrong.
Elle, desperate to escape her abusive home, runs away to a seemingly cute small town where she gets a job as a waitress. And meets Vera, who offers her an attic room in her large house.
For the first time in years, Elle feels something like contentment as she bonds with Vera who becomes almost like a mother to her. Blossoming, Elle slowly begins to piece her life back together, make new friends and stand on her own two feet.
But all is not as it seems.
Because this old house contains a dark secret. And much as she cares for Elle, Vera will do anything to protect it. That’s why she’s warned her young tenant that she must never, ever go down to the basement.
But Elle doesn’t obey this simple rule and when she sees what’s down there, she finally understands that her lovely new life is actually the gateway to a special kind of hell…
Don’t Tell a Soul – the shocking psychological thriller perfect for fans of John Marrs, Shari Lapena, Kiersten Modglin.
Elle, desperate to escape her abusive home, runs away to a seemingly cute small town where she gets a job as a waitress. And meets Vera, who offers her an attic room in her large house.
For the first time in years, Elle feels something like contentment as she bonds with Vera who becomes almost like a mother to her. Blossoming, Elle slowly begins to piece her life back together, make new friends and stand on her own two feet.
But all is not as it seems.
Because this old house contains a dark secret. And much as she cares for Elle, Vera will do anything to protect it. That’s why she’s warned her young tenant that she must never, ever go down to the basement.
But Elle doesn’t obey this simple rule and when she sees what’s down there, she finally understands that her lovely new life is actually the gateway to a special kind of hell…
Don’t Tell a Soul – the shocking psychological thriller perfect for fans of John Marrs, Shari Lapena, Kiersten Modglin.
258 pages, ebook
Published August 4, 2024
821 people are currently reading
1287 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Huntley
22 books448 followersJessica Huntley is an award-winning and best-selling psychological thriller author. She's an ex-British soldier and Personal Trainer and has been writing almost non-stop for the past four years.
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
September 6, 2025
A new author for me, and I did like this one. It had a driven plot and some decent surprises along the way. A little unlikely, yes. But still entertaining.
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July 4, 2024My first traditionally published book! I'm not really sure what to say about it other than the fact that it will always hold a special in my heart.
Plotting this book was a lot of fun as I had help from my publisher who helped me hone and develop it.
Elle and Vera were such easy characters to write. I wanted the reader to root for Elle but also sympathize with Vera and her position.
I hope readers enjoy the twists and the story of these characters!
Plotting this book was a lot of fun as I had help from my publisher who helped me hone and develop it.
Elle and Vera were such easy characters to write. I wanted the reader to root for Elle but also sympathize with Vera and her position.
I hope readers enjoy the twists and the story of these characters!
July 25, 2024
This is the second book I’ve read by Jessica Huntley. Just like How to Commit the Perfect Murder in Ten Easy Steps, Don't Tell a Soul hooked me from the beginning. I was instantly invested in both of the lives of Elle and Vera. Secrets, fear, and desperation describe the motivation of both women. Whose dark secret will come to light? Guilt can be a powerful motivator and when it’s mixed with suspicion it becomes dangerous. The conclusion was surprising and satisfying. Thank you, Booksprout and Inkubator Books for my advanced copy.
August 18, 2024
I received a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.
Don't Tell a Soul is a quick, fast-paced psychological mystery thriller set in a little village in the Cotswolds. We follow Ellie , a seventeen year old who's escaped her family home to start a new life on her own. This is where she meets Vera - who is also running to escape a traumatic past. Both have secrets, fear, and torment below the surface, and as their lives begin to weave and tangle together, we see how scared and desperate each woman truly is. As secrets begin to rear their heads, will the pair survive the aftermath of what unfolds around them.
This was a gripping psychological thriller that keeps you turning the pages to uncover just what will happen next from beginning to end.
Don't Tell a Soul is a quick, fast-paced psychological mystery thriller set in a little village in the Cotswolds. We follow Ellie , a seventeen year old who's escaped her family home to start a new life on her own. This is where she meets Vera - who is also running to escape a traumatic past. Both have secrets, fear, and torment below the surface, and as their lives begin to weave and tangle together, we see how scared and desperate each woman truly is. As secrets begin to rear their heads, will the pair survive the aftermath of what unfolds around them.
This was a gripping psychological thriller that keeps you turning the pages to uncover just what will happen next from beginning to end.
September 15, 2024
Everybody in this damn book is crazy as hell. Don’t trust none of they asses.
July 6, 2024
If life didn’t get in the way I would have read this in one sitting! It’s the very definition of a page turner! A true Psychological Thriller with a great story and some very interesting characters. I got some parts of the twist correct but there was many more layers to the final conclusion that was chefs kiss. 🤌🤌🤌 highly recommend picking this one up!!
August 11, 2024
I was absolutely hooked on Jessica Huntley's writing after I devoured "How to Commit Murder in Ten Easy Steps." So, when I got my hands on "Don't Tell a Soul," I was beyond thrilled! The book didn't disappoint.
The way the main characters, Elle and Vera, unveil their dark and turbulent pasts through alternating chapters had me on the edge of my seat. Their shared secrets and the sinister mysteries lurking within the story left me guessing until the end. While I found it slightly less gripping than the author's previous work, I couldn't deny the intense and chilling atmosphere that Jessica Huntley was able to create.
Kudos to the author and Inkubator Books for providing this ARC through Booksprout. All opinions are my own.
#DontTellASoul #JessicaHuntley #InkubatorBooks #Booksprout
The way the main characters, Elle and Vera, unveil their dark and turbulent pasts through alternating chapters had me on the edge of my seat. Their shared secrets and the sinister mysteries lurking within the story left me guessing until the end. While I found it slightly less gripping than the author's previous work, I couldn't deny the intense and chilling atmosphere that Jessica Huntley was able to create.
Kudos to the author and Inkubator Books for providing this ARC through Booksprout. All opinions are my own.
#DontTellASoul #JessicaHuntley #InkubatorBooks #Booksprout
August 11, 2024
This was such a good psychological thriller filled with suspense and a lot of twists.
July 7, 2024
This psychological thriller, “Don’t Tell a Soul”, written by Jessica Huntley (my favorite author), is rather an interesting and suspenseful story. It is based on Elle, a lady who chooses to transform and stop being violent and seeks help from the people of the town and her close friend Vera. As the movie progresses, Elle starts to build a friendship with Vera and tries to start a new life, but the reality hits her from the life in their house. She makes a friend in Vera and starts planning to start a new life for herself, but she does not expect to discover the dark secret of the house she is living in.
The pacing is superb; Jessica’s complicated storytelling slowly leads the audience from comfort to unease as Elle. The bond that is shown between Elle and Vera is very real and natural, thus enhancing the plot and the narrative. This rather ominous statement helps the reader feel the tension of the basement and the anticipation of the malevolent force hidden in the house.
The action in the story can also be described as intense, with many twists and turns leading readers to the final and important twist that turns the story into a nightmare. The traditional storytelling features and the manner of depicting the anticipation of each tragedy also add tension and anxiety.
In conclusion, ‘Don’t Tell a Soul’ is a drama that is told in a very effective manner, and any fan of psychological thrillers will most definitely enjoy it. This book is really interesting and thrilling for the following reasons: the author can maintain some psychological suspense in the atmosphere of the book and create an evil twist in the story to make it very interesting in the genre of thrillers. Prepare to meet the ultimate in suspense and get ready to be taken into a world where the difference between safety and danger is a fine line, and trust means life or death. I HIGHLY recommend this book. You’ll love it!
Thank you to Inkubator Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
The pacing is superb; Jessica’s complicated storytelling slowly leads the audience from comfort to unease as Elle. The bond that is shown between Elle and Vera is very real and natural, thus enhancing the plot and the narrative. This rather ominous statement helps the reader feel the tension of the basement and the anticipation of the malevolent force hidden in the house.
The action in the story can also be described as intense, with many twists and turns leading readers to the final and important twist that turns the story into a nightmare. The traditional storytelling features and the manner of depicting the anticipation of each tragedy also add tension and anxiety.
In conclusion, ‘Don’t Tell a Soul’ is a drama that is told in a very effective manner, and any fan of psychological thrillers will most definitely enjoy it. This book is really interesting and thrilling for the following reasons: the author can maintain some psychological suspense in the atmosphere of the book and create an evil twist in the story to make it very interesting in the genre of thrillers. Prepare to meet the ultimate in suspense and get ready to be taken into a world where the difference between safety and danger is a fine line, and trust means life or death. I HIGHLY recommend this book. You’ll love it!
Thank you to Inkubator Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
July 4, 2024
I flew through this book today!! I always love Jessica Huntleys books and this was no exception. The characters were very interesting in this one with a lot to delve into despite it being quite a quick read. I did see a few of the twists coming but this book also managed to surprise me as well! I loved the parallels between Elle and Vera and found them both to be compelling main characters. A must read for thriller fans!
August 25, 2024
Don't Tell A Soul is not for the faint of heart. It is a violent book with lots of killing and twists you won't see coming! It also deals with abuse so if you're sensitive to books with that in them you might want to pass on this one. I read Don't Tell A Soul very quickly as it just got worse and worse and I had to know what was going to happen. You will be rooting hard for Elle as she goes through so much in this book. This book does a good job of reminding us that people are not always what they seem.
Elle goes on the run as she decides to leave her abusive home once and for all. She's put up with her violent father for the last time. She's almost 18 and will find a way to live on her own. When Elle takes a bus to a new town, she gets a job at the diner, and a local cleaning lady offers her a room to rent in her house. Vera is the woman's name and Elle is thrilled to accept her offer. Vera is quiet and a bit odd, but seems good hearted. When Elle arrives at Vera's huge home she's given a tour and rules. Do not go in the basement ever and don't enter any room upstairs that is closed. Vera says she has many rooms closed up to save money on the heat. Is that the real reason? Why is Vera so paranoid about the basement? There's a huge deadbolt on the door to the basement. That's very odd. Why would someone do that? Are they trying to keep something in or something out?
Elle agrees to the terms and is so happy to have her own space up in the attic. It's so nice being on her own without worrying about someone entering her room. Elle has finally found some peace, but has she? She'll get used to Vera and her odd ways, right? Vera is keeping many secrets and some are in the house! Will Elle find out what the secrets are? What will Vera do if Elle discovers her secrets? This book keeps you on edge throughout and you'll be shocked at the twist near the end. I rate Don't Tell a Soul 4 stars with a high recommendation. I'd like to than NetGalley and Inkubator Books for an advanced copy of Don't Tell A Soul in exchange for a fair review. #DontTellASoul
Elle goes on the run as she decides to leave her abusive home once and for all. She's put up with her violent father for the last time. She's almost 18 and will find a way to live on her own. When Elle takes a bus to a new town, she gets a job at the diner, and a local cleaning lady offers her a room to rent in her house. Vera is the woman's name and Elle is thrilled to accept her offer. Vera is quiet and a bit odd, but seems good hearted. When Elle arrives at Vera's huge home she's given a tour and rules. Do not go in the basement ever and don't enter any room upstairs that is closed. Vera says she has many rooms closed up to save money on the heat. Is that the real reason? Why is Vera so paranoid about the basement? There's a huge deadbolt on the door to the basement. That's very odd. Why would someone do that? Are they trying to keep something in or something out?
Elle agrees to the terms and is so happy to have her own space up in the attic. It's so nice being on her own without worrying about someone entering her room. Elle has finally found some peace, but has she? She'll get used to Vera and her odd ways, right? Vera is keeping many secrets and some are in the house! Will Elle find out what the secrets are? What will Vera do if Elle discovers her secrets? This book keeps you on edge throughout and you'll be shocked at the twist near the end. I rate Don't Tell a Soul 4 stars with a high recommendation. I'd like to than NetGalley and Inkubator Books for an advanced copy of Don't Tell A Soul in exchange for a fair review. #DontTellASoul
July 22, 2024
Elle escapes her abusive home and finds refuge in a small town, where she befriends Vera who offers her a room in her house. Elle finally feels safe and begins to rebuild her life, but she discovers a dark secret in the basement that threatens everything she has worked for. Vera will do anything to protect this secret, leading Elle to realize that her new life is not what it seems...
Wait, what???
Wow, I was completely captivated by this book from the very beginning. It had a perfect balance of suspense and intrigue that kept me hooked right from the start. By the time I reached 25% of the way through, I found myself unable to set the book down. The author skillfully answered all of my burning questions by the end, but the unexpected twists and turns left me in awe. Just when I thought the story had reached its peak, even more excitement unfolded. This book exceeded all of my expectations and more... I highly recommend this fast-paced read to anyone looking for a thrilling escape. If you're in a reading rut, this book is sure to reignite your passion for books.
I recommend this book, but Don't Tell a Soul or you will end up like... shhhh no spoilers!!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for my digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wait, what???
Wow, I was completely captivated by this book from the very beginning. It had a perfect balance of suspense and intrigue that kept me hooked right from the start. By the time I reached 25% of the way through, I found myself unable to set the book down. The author skillfully answered all of my burning questions by the end, but the unexpected twists and turns left me in awe. Just when I thought the story had reached its peak, even more excitement unfolded. This book exceeded all of my expectations and more... I highly recommend this fast-paced read to anyone looking for a thrilling escape. If you're in a reading rut, this book is sure to reignite your passion for books.
I recommend this book, but Don't Tell a Soul or you will end up like... shhhh no spoilers!!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for my digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 5, 2024
This book started out pretty good but got a little fantastical as it continued. It centers on Elle, who runs away from home and ends up stay with a woman named Vera, who has a similar background and a lot of hidden secrets.
Elle is a likable, albeit naive, character and is easy to root for. Vera is less likable but there a dynamic between the 2 that was interesting. As the story continued I had to suspend my disbelief, but the pacing was fast. I felt like it became a little ridiculous in the last couple chapters but at least all the loose ends were tied up.
Overall, decent read that held my interest but I’m not sure it will be super memorable later. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Elle is a likable, albeit naive, character and is easy to root for. Vera is less likable but there a dynamic between the 2 that was interesting. As the story continued I had to suspend my disbelief, but the pacing was fast. I felt like it became a little ridiculous in the last couple chapters but at least all the loose ends were tied up.
Overall, decent read that held my interest but I’m not sure it will be super memorable later. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2024
As in true jessica style this book pulls you in on page 1 and keeps you hooked for the rest of the book. There are parts which aren't for the faint hearted but it is a belter of a book.
Now whilst I wasn't a fan of Vera, I do understand that she had her problems and can see why she thought she was making the right choices.
Elle was desperate to be anyone else other than her and had suffered so much in her journey. She was inspiring and naive in her young years.
As with Jessica's other books, I flew through this desperately wanting to know more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Now whilst I wasn't a fan of Vera, I do understand that she had her problems and can see why she thought she was making the right choices.
Elle was desperate to be anyone else other than her and had suffered so much in her journey. She was inspiring and naive in her young years.
As with Jessica's other books, I flew through this desperately wanting to know more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 19, 2025
3.5 Stars
July 5, 2024
This is a dramatic story of alcoholism and child abuse. How it can change a child’s personality and character. A story circling around Vera Marks and her twin brother Kevin, twenty years prior. And of young Elle Walter (Eleanor Spencer) at sixteen meeting Vera prevent day.
A troubled life meeting up with another troubled life and combusting.
This is a suspenseful and intriguing story, leaving you sitting on the edge of your chair WHILE biting your nails!
A haunting story full of mystery, tragedy, drama, mystic, damaged people, mental illness and a “I did not see that coming” ending.
Highly recommended!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A troubled life meeting up with another troubled life and combusting.
This is a suspenseful and intriguing story, leaving you sitting on the edge of your chair WHILE biting your nails!
A haunting story full of mystery, tragedy, drama, mystic, damaged people, mental illness and a “I did not see that coming” ending.
Highly recommended!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2024
Don't Tell A Soul
Jessica Huntly
Stars: 4
Spice: 0
Format: E-Book
Review: Such a solid thriller/suspense read. From the beginning, I was hooked. I thought this book had great pacing which made it completely bingeable. While a couple of the twists felt a bit predictable, it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment. This was a great introduction to Jessica's work and I am excited to add more to my TBR.
Pros: Great ending!!! Super Bingeable!!!
Recommend (Yes/No/Maybe): Yes, Absolutely
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to review the title.
Jessica Huntly
Stars: 4
Spice: 0
Format: E-Book
Review: Such a solid thriller/suspense read. From the beginning, I was hooked. I thought this book had great pacing which made it completely bingeable. While a couple of the twists felt a bit predictable, it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment. This was a great introduction to Jessica's work and I am excited to add more to my TBR.
Pros: Great ending!!! Super Bingeable!!!
Recommend (Yes/No/Maybe): Yes, Absolutely
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to review the title.
August 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. I feel as though I did not see the ending coming. Both characters experienced abuse as a child. Elle ran away from home to escape the abuse, and Vera was abused as a child. Elle manages to get a job and a find a place to live. Elle unexpectedly bumped into Vera and that's were the journey begins. There were so many twists, and at times I found myself gasping. I would definitely recommend the book
August 28, 2024
This is a gripping book from start to finish! At first I was confused as to where this book was heading, but you rapidly begin to see where these two people will merge into a relationship. All seems innocent at first, but the horrors continue to sprinkle throughout. It was a great way to spend a few hours on my couch!
November 16, 2024
This book was definitely deceiving… It starts off slow by showing us a girl escaping an abusive home and finding shelter in Vera’s house. The plot, however, thickens and makes you go on a spiral with how much is not as it seems. it is definitely a book that will keep you on your toes because you never know what’s going to happen next. Thank you so much to NetGalley for allowing me to have this book way before it was published.
July 9, 2024
This book was so good! I didn’t see any of the twists coming. I liked how the story started out a little slower and then seemed to almost explode into action with one thing happening after another. The characters were all well developed and the plot didn’t seem rushed at all, so I didn’t feel like there were any major questions I was left asking at the end. One of my favorite things about this book is that initially, Vera and Elle seem so completely different, but as the story goes on, there are so many similarities between the two. This story was a great example of how people can live the same experiences, but travel down completely different paths with how they deal with it. I had a hard time putting this book down. I feel like this is a great example of the psychological thriller genre and I cannot wait to read more from Jessica Huntley.
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator books for providing me with the ARC of this book. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator books for providing me with the ARC of this book. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
August 5, 2024
This was creepy, twisted and I loved it! A great story either way some great plot twists.
It has various timelines and POV which really helped build the characters and explained the story as you went along.
I found myself feeling quite sorry for the supposed villain and her sad life. I think she really believed she had done all she did to protect those she cared about.
That last twist at the end was awesome and proved that the creepy, somethings not right feeling I had about Kevin was pretty much spot on all along.
Will definitely look out for this author in future because this was a real page turner!
If you love psychological twisty thrillers then you’ll love this one 💜
It has various timelines and POV which really helped build the characters and explained the story as you went along.
I found myself feeling quite sorry for the supposed villain and her sad life. I think she really believed she had done all she did to protect those she cared about.
That last twist at the end was awesome and proved that the creepy, somethings not right feeling I had about Kevin was pretty much spot on all along.
Will definitely look out for this author in future because this was a real page turner!
If you love psychological twisty thrillers then you’ll love this one 💜
August 14, 2024
Seventeen year old Elle is escaping her family home and ends up in a picturesque village in the Cotswold where she crosses paths with Vera, who is also trying to escape her past. The two women’s lives soon become tangled together as both try to keep their past secrets buried. But secrets never stay hidden for long and for Elle and Vera the aftermath of everything surfacing will be deadly.
This is a gripping, fast paced, quick read that draws you in from the beginning. It is a character driven story and I raced through the pages wanting to unlock the doors to the past to find out the ending of this mystery thriller.
Many thanks to NetGalley, author and publisher for my gifted eARC.
August 13, 2024
Don’t Tell a Soul by Jessica Huntley centers around Elle and Vera, two characters with similar backgrounds who form an unlikely friendship. However, one of them harbors a dark secret. The book is filled with twists and told through multiple points of view, making the story both intriguing and engaging. While Vera was my least favorite character and Elle came across as quite naive, I could understand their decisions as the story unfolded. I read this book quickly as it was well paced but be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 22, 2024
In 2004, on her sixteenth birthday, Vera is bedridden with the flu. Her father, intoxicated and enraged, continues his pattern of abuse towards her, her mother, and her brother Kevin. Vera is fiercely protective of Kevin, and he is just as protective of her.
Fast forward twenty years, Vera now lives alone in her childhood home. Her family has relocated to Australia, leaving her behind. She leads a reclusive life, working as a cleaning lady, but financial struggles loom as bills accumulate. Desperate, Vera makes a bold decision and takes in a boarder, a young girl named Eleanor who arrives in town with visible bruises. Vera sees a bit of herself in young Eleanor, and maybe that is why she decides to take her in.
Elle is just a few months shy of her eighteenth birthday, but she knows she has to escape. Her father's abuse has gotten worst recently, and Elle fears for the worst. And so, Elle escapes with a fake ID and ends up in a small town. She adopts the name "Eleanor" and pretends to be eighteen. By chance, Elle lands a job as a waitress, and she quickly finds accommodation with a mysterious lady named Vera. Elle feels as if there is something off about Vera and her grand house, but she is in a desperate situation. Without a place to stay, Elle will have to return home and back to her father's abuse.
As the days go by, Elle begins to adjust to her new life, but she knows that she will never be safe as long as her father keeps searching for her.
I finished this book within a day. Even though I tried to pace myself and slowly devour this book, I just didn't have the willpower. I had to know Vera's secrets and whether Elle had any secrets of her own. Is Vera just a normal woman with an unfortunate past of domestic abuse at the hands of her father, or did something strange happen to Vera? Will someone realize that Eleanor is actually Elle and return her to her father? I had so many questions.
There was something delightfully atmospheric about this book. It takes place in a fictionally town in England. I really liked the setting, it added to the mysterious vibe. I could easily picture this book as a movie.
If you're looking for a fast-pace thriller, full of twists and turns until the very end, this is the book for you!
*I received an advanced reader's copy of Don't Tell a Soul by Jessica Huntley from Inkubator Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Fast forward twenty years, Vera now lives alone in her childhood home. Her family has relocated to Australia, leaving her behind. She leads a reclusive life, working as a cleaning lady, but financial struggles loom as bills accumulate. Desperate, Vera makes a bold decision and takes in a boarder, a young girl named Eleanor who arrives in town with visible bruises. Vera sees a bit of herself in young Eleanor, and maybe that is why she decides to take her in.
Elle is just a few months shy of her eighteenth birthday, but she knows she has to escape. Her father's abuse has gotten worst recently, and Elle fears for the worst. And so, Elle escapes with a fake ID and ends up in a small town. She adopts the name "Eleanor" and pretends to be eighteen. By chance, Elle lands a job as a waitress, and she quickly finds accommodation with a mysterious lady named Vera. Elle feels as if there is something off about Vera and her grand house, but she is in a desperate situation. Without a place to stay, Elle will have to return home and back to her father's abuse.
As the days go by, Elle begins to adjust to her new life, but she knows that she will never be safe as long as her father keeps searching for her.
I finished this book within a day. Even though I tried to pace myself and slowly devour this book, I just didn't have the willpower. I had to know Vera's secrets and whether Elle had any secrets of her own. Is Vera just a normal woman with an unfortunate past of domestic abuse at the hands of her father, or did something strange happen to Vera? Will someone realize that Eleanor is actually Elle and return her to her father? I had so many questions.
There was something delightfully atmospheric about this book. It takes place in a fictionally town in England. I really liked the setting, it added to the mysterious vibe. I could easily picture this book as a movie.
If you're looking for a fast-pace thriller, full of twists and turns until the very end, this is the book for you!
*I received an advanced reader's copy of Don't Tell a Soul by Jessica Huntley from Inkubator Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
August 12, 2024
I love a book that is set in the area where I live. I’m going to assume that Barrow-on-the-Water is based on Bourton-on-the-Water, just down the road from me. I have been there so many times – last time about two weeks ago. Who knew there was so many sinister things going on behind the frilly curtains, coffee shops and antique dealerships. It’s a hive of tourist activity, cute, and chocolate box pretty.
So this is the place where 17-year-old Elle ends up, having run away from her abusive father. Here she meets Vera, also abused by her father, but rather than running away, Vera and twin brother Kevin had a different way of dealing with things. Having found a job in a cafe, Elle takes the attic room at Vera’s run-down spooky house. There are only a couple of rules including don’t go down in the basement, Well. we all know what that means!
I am not easily shocked, but some of the things that happened twenty years ago are so horrific, that even I had to take a break. It’s all very gory and descriptive, but who do we believe? There’s a massive twist part way through, but I still wasn’t sure what was going on.
Well written, tense and shocking, it’s a real page turner and I loved it. The characters of Vera particularly, together with Elle and Kevin are perfectly fleshed out, and then there’s Hamilton the dog at the first place Elle stays before meeting Vera. There’s an element of dark humour, which I love in these types of stories – it prevents the horror from being too overwhelming, though one wonders how anyone can find humour in something so dark.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
So this is the place where 17-year-old Elle ends up, having run away from her abusive father. Here she meets Vera, also abused by her father, but rather than running away, Vera and twin brother Kevin had a different way of dealing with things. Having found a job in a cafe, Elle takes the attic room at Vera’s run-down spooky house. There are only a couple of rules including don’t go down in the basement, Well. we all know what that means!
I am not easily shocked, but some of the things that happened twenty years ago are so horrific, that even I had to take a break. It’s all very gory and descriptive, but who do we believe? There’s a massive twist part way through, but I still wasn’t sure what was going on.
Well written, tense and shocking, it’s a real page turner and I loved it. The characters of Vera particularly, together with Elle and Kevin are perfectly fleshed out, and then there’s Hamilton the dog at the first place Elle stays before meeting Vera. There’s an element of dark humour, which I love in these types of stories – it prevents the horror from being too overwhelming, though one wonders how anyone can find humour in something so dark.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
February 10, 2025
An absolute page-turner that I devoured in just two sittings! This dark thriller has everything you could want: hidden secrets, troubled pasts, and a tangled web of lies and deceit. Huntley not only handles these themes well but also gives us intense twists without ever feeling like you're stuck in a dull moment.
Vera Marks is keeping a terrible secret that she will do anything to keep. Elle Walter is a teenage runaway desperate to start over fresh with a new identity. When Vera and Elle cross paths and their lives become intertwined, Elle has no idea of the danger she's in. What are they willing to do to ensure their pasts stay buried?
Although I enjoyed this book immensely, the ending felt rushed and left me with unanswered questions, particularly regarding what happens to Elle after her final appearance. The subplot is focused on really heavily at the end, but it feels as if it could have been omitted entirely, as it doesn’t add significant value to the overall story.
I would absolutely recommend this for those who can handle a darker story that deals with themes such as child and spousal abuse, sexual assault, captivity and descriptive gore.
A big thank you to the author and Inkubator Books for providing me with a review copy. This is my first book by Jessica Huntley but it won't be my last! I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Vera Marks is keeping a terrible secret that she will do anything to keep. Elle Walter is a teenage runaway desperate to start over fresh with a new identity. When Vera and Elle cross paths and their lives become intertwined, Elle has no idea of the danger she's in. What are they willing to do to ensure their pasts stay buried?
Although I enjoyed this book immensely, the ending felt rushed and left me with unanswered questions, particularly regarding what happens to Elle after her final appearance. The subplot is focused on really heavily at the end, but it feels as if it could have been omitted entirely, as it doesn’t add significant value to the overall story.
I would absolutely recommend this for those who can handle a darker story that deals with themes such as child and spousal abuse, sexual assault, captivity and descriptive gore.
A big thank you to the author and Inkubator Books for providing me with a review copy. This is my first book by Jessica Huntley but it won't be my last! I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
August 18, 2024
I’d noticed this book on a few people’s timelines and everything about it had me intrigued, the cover and the description really screamed out to me, so it’s safe to say when the invite to read and review dropped into my inbox, I was super excited and jumped at the chance to read. I really did have high hopes for this one and thankfully, the author delivered!
The powerful prologue reeled me in and from then on I was hooked. I found myself staying up later than I should as I constantly found myself saying “just one more chapter.” And when I did prise the book out of my hands, all I could think about was picking it back up again.
This was a fast paced, tense read and as I raced through the pages, I could really feel the atmosphere. I really enjoyed the twists and turns, despite seeing some coming and the weirdo in me liked how dark things got a times. On reflection, it was a little Misery meets Baby Reindeer at times and I was totally down for it.
Jessica Huntley is a brilliant writer who delivers on the gripping plots. She is able to create intriguing and flawed characters that can keep you on edge. It took me a while to connect the dots, but I loved My Dark Self by this author and after reading this book, it’s the kick up the bum I need to carry on with the series!
The powerful prologue reeled me in and from then on I was hooked. I found myself staying up later than I should as I constantly found myself saying “just one more chapter.” And when I did prise the book out of my hands, all I could think about was picking it back up again.
This was a fast paced, tense read and as I raced through the pages, I could really feel the atmosphere. I really enjoyed the twists and turns, despite seeing some coming and the weirdo in me liked how dark things got a times. On reflection, it was a little Misery meets Baby Reindeer at times and I was totally down for it.
Jessica Huntley is a brilliant writer who delivers on the gripping plots. She is able to create intriguing and flawed characters that can keep you on edge. It took me a while to connect the dots, but I loved My Dark Self by this author and after reading this book, it’s the kick up the bum I need to carry on with the series!
August 14, 2024
From 2004 - 2024. Different character perspectives for chapters, Elle, Vera, and a different character later on. That prologue to begin with was absolutely terrifying and I was shocked that the first chapter took me to a complete new character. With Vera and Kevin in the back of my mind I was eager to get started.
Secrets. Lots of secrets that keep you hooked to the very last page.
Beware! It’s gory, but you get an understanding of what happened from the beginning pretty quickly. I enjoyed the gore wasn’t a one off. I felt a lot for Elle, abuse, running away from home. But what sort of chaos was going to be in store for her. I don’t like giving spoilers, so I’ll try not to but shocked at what happened when Vera took her revenge for what happened to Elle.
That huge unexpected twist, was not predictable. Everything builds and by the end of part two you think. Whoa what else could the author have in store for the reader. I absolutely loved the last few chapters of the book and I couldn’t believe the amount of action and revenge that occurred. It’s a super fast read that gripped me throughout.
Secrets. Lots of secrets that keep you hooked to the very last page.
Beware! It’s gory, but you get an understanding of what happened from the beginning pretty quickly. I enjoyed the gore wasn’t a one off. I felt a lot for Elle, abuse, running away from home. But what sort of chaos was going to be in store for her. I don’t like giving spoilers, so I’ll try not to but shocked at what happened when Vera took her revenge for what happened to Elle.
That huge unexpected twist, was not predictable. Everything builds and by the end of part two you think. Whoa what else could the author have in store for the reader. I absolutely loved the last few chapters of the book and I couldn’t believe the amount of action and revenge that occurred. It’s a super fast read that gripped me throughout.
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