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House of Glass
On the outside they were the golden family with the perfect life. On the inside they built the perfect lie.
A young nanny who plunged to her death, or was she pushed? A nine-year-old girl who collects sharp objects and refuses to speak. A lawyer whose job it is to uncover who in the family is a victim and who is a murderer. But how can you find out the truth when everyone here is lying?
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who witnessed the possible murder of her nanny - in the midst of her parent's bitter divorce - and immediately stopped speaking. Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She never accepts clients under thirteen due to her own traumatic childhood, but Stella's mentor, a revered judge, believes Stella is the only one who can help.
From the moment Stella passes through the iron security gate and steps into the gilded, historic DC home of the Barclays, she realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she feared. And there's something eerie about the house itself: It's a plastic house, with not a single bit of glass to be found.
As Stella comes closer to uncovering the secrets the Barclays are desperate to hide, danger wraps around her like a shroud, and her past and present are set on a collision course in ways she never expected. Everyone is a suspect in the nanny's murder. The mother, the father, the grandmother, the nanny's boyfriend. Even Rose. Is the person Stella's supposed to protect the one she may need protection from?
A young nanny who plunged to her death, or was she pushed? A nine-year-old girl who collects sharp objects and refuses to speak. A lawyer whose job it is to uncover who in the family is a victim and who is a murderer. But how can you find out the truth when everyone here is lying?
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who witnessed the possible murder of her nanny - in the midst of her parent's bitter divorce - and immediately stopped speaking. Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She never accepts clients under thirteen due to her own traumatic childhood, but Stella's mentor, a revered judge, believes Stella is the only one who can help.
From the moment Stella passes through the iron security gate and steps into the gilded, historic DC home of the Barclays, she realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she feared. And there's something eerie about the house itself: It's a plastic house, with not a single bit of glass to be found.
As Stella comes closer to uncovering the secrets the Barclays are desperate to hide, danger wraps around her like a shroud, and her past and present are set on a collision course in ways she never expected. Everyone is a suspect in the nanny's murder. The mother, the father, the grandmother, the nanny's boyfriend. Even Rose. Is the person Stella's supposed to protect the one she may need protection from?
341 pages, Hardcover
First published August 6, 2024
About the author
Sarah Pekkanen
29 books6,182 followersI'm a #1 New York Times bestselling author of the upcoming HOUSE OF GLASS, which will be published August 6, 2024. The audiobook is narrated by Tony-awared winning singer/actress Laura Benanti.
My most recent novel, GONE TONIGHT, was hailed by Harlen Coben as "Jaw-dropping... A wild ride." The audiobook is narrated by actress Kate Mara.
I'm also the coauthor of four bestselling thrillers: THE GOLDEN COUPLE, THE WIFE BETWEEN US, AN ANONYMOUS GIRL, and YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
I've written eight novels that are contemporary fiction, not thrillers: THE EVER AFTER, THE PERFECT NEIGHBORS, THINGS YOU WON'T SAY, CATCHING AIR, THE BEST OF US, THE OPPOSITE OF ME, SKIPPING A BEAT, and THESE GIRLS. My linked free short estories, published by Simon&Schuster exclusively for ereaders, are titled "All is Bright," and "Love, Accidentally."
When I'm not writing or spending time with my three kids, I'm a passionate advocate for rescue animals. I serve as Ambassador of RRSA India, a shelter and sanctuary for abused and injured street dogs and other animals in Anand, India. And I'm the founder of the nonprofit charity IndiaStreetPaws.com.
I also serve on the board of the International Thriller Writers. Readers and writers - come join us at Thrillerfest in NYC every spring!
Please find me on Insta and Facebook for more!
My website is www.sarahpekkanen.com
(Here on Goodreads, my policy is to only review books I really like. If I don't enjoy the book, I won't write about it - it's just my personal policy.)
My most recent novel, GONE TONIGHT, was hailed by Harlen Coben as "Jaw-dropping... A wild ride." The audiobook is narrated by actress Kate Mara.
I'm also the coauthor of four bestselling thrillers: THE GOLDEN COUPLE, THE WIFE BETWEEN US, AN ANONYMOUS GIRL, and YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
I've written eight novels that are contemporary fiction, not thrillers: THE EVER AFTER, THE PERFECT NEIGHBORS, THINGS YOU WON'T SAY, CATCHING AIR, THE BEST OF US, THE OPPOSITE OF ME, SKIPPING A BEAT, and THESE GIRLS. My linked free short estories, published by Simon&Schuster exclusively for ereaders, are titled "All is Bright," and "Love, Accidentally."
When I'm not writing or spending time with my three kids, I'm a passionate advocate for rescue animals. I serve as Ambassador of RRSA India, a shelter and sanctuary for abused and injured street dogs and other animals in Anand, India. And I'm the founder of the nonprofit charity IndiaStreetPaws.com.
I also serve on the board of the International Thriller Writers. Readers and writers - come join us at Thrillerfest in NYC every spring!
Please find me on Insta and Facebook for more!
My website is www.sarahpekkanen.com
(Here on Goodreads, my policy is to only review books I really like. If I don't enjoy the book, I won't write about it - it's just my personal policy.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,905 reviews
August 8, 2024
“EVIL ISN’T MERELY A WORD-IT’S A TANGIBLE, DIMENSIONAL THING”
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who suffers from “traumatic mutism”-she literally can no longer speak.
It all started after she witnessed the “possible murder” of her nanny Tina, in the midst of her parent's imminent divorce.
Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She usually refuses to accept clients under the age of thirteen due to a her own traumatic childhood.
But since she also suffered from “traumatic mutism” as a child, she seems best suited to find a way to reach Rose. Her job will be to determine which parent is better suited to be awarded full custody.
But that won’t be the only challenge.
Certain details surrounding Tina’s fall, lead the Police to have doubts about it being an accident, and although they have been unable to build a case against ANYONE -EVERYONE remains a suspect:
Beth Barclay-Rose’s mom
Ian Barclay-Rose’s dad
Harriett-Rose’s grandmother
and even Rose herself…
The Barclays have removed all of the GLASS in the home, after Rose started collecting sharp objects. And, Stella has discovered that this strangely formal, extremely intelligent little girl is hiding “The Stranger Beside Me” a book about the serial killer, Ted Bundy, within the covers of “Anne of Green Gables” …
Why are the Barclays so HESITANT to allow Stella to spend time alone with Rose?
“FEAR TAKES MANY FORMS. IT’S A GREAT MOTIVATOR and a POWERFUL DETERRENT “
I really enjoyed this book from the very first pages! The author created a sinister, disturbing atmosphere and a child you will feel leary of…
It’s a more linear mystery which DOESN’T rely on crazy twists, instead revealing its surprises as we become further invested. I prefer more plausible stories, and a chance to get to know the characters so it worked well for my tastes. I am always THRILLED when I find a book with an ORIGINAL PLOT in a genre filled with tired, repeated tropes.
I was satisfied with MOST of the resolution, and even got teary eyed at one point, but felt that one small aspect felt forced and contrived (-.5 for that!) That brings me to 4.5 rounded up.
It seems that Sarah Pekkanen will make my “favorites list” two years in a row! I have also enjoyed her collaborations with Greer Hendricks.
A buddy read with DeAnn, MarilynW and Mary Beth. Be sure to read their reviews for additional insight!
AVAILABLE NOW!
THANK YOU to St. Martin’s Press for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who suffers from “traumatic mutism”-she literally can no longer speak.
It all started after she witnessed the “possible murder” of her nanny Tina, in the midst of her parent's imminent divorce.
Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She usually refuses to accept clients under the age of thirteen due to a her own traumatic childhood.
But since she also suffered from “traumatic mutism” as a child, she seems best suited to find a way to reach Rose. Her job will be to determine which parent is better suited to be awarded full custody.
But that won’t be the only challenge.
Certain details surrounding Tina’s fall, lead the Police to have doubts about it being an accident, and although they have been unable to build a case against ANYONE -EVERYONE remains a suspect:
Beth Barclay-Rose’s mom
Ian Barclay-Rose’s dad
Harriett-Rose’s grandmother
and even Rose herself…
The Barclays have removed all of the GLASS in the home, after Rose started collecting sharp objects. And, Stella has discovered that this strangely formal, extremely intelligent little girl is hiding “The Stranger Beside Me” a book about the serial killer, Ted Bundy, within the covers of “Anne of Green Gables” …
Why are the Barclays so HESITANT to allow Stella to spend time alone with Rose?
“FEAR TAKES MANY FORMS. IT’S A GREAT MOTIVATOR and a POWERFUL DETERRENT “
I really enjoyed this book from the very first pages! The author created a sinister, disturbing atmosphere and a child you will feel leary of…
It’s a more linear mystery which DOESN’T rely on crazy twists, instead revealing its surprises as we become further invested. I prefer more plausible stories, and a chance to get to know the characters so it worked well for my tastes. I am always THRILLED when I find a book with an ORIGINAL PLOT in a genre filled with tired, repeated tropes.
I was satisfied with MOST of the resolution, and even got teary eyed at one point, but felt that one small aspect felt forced and contrived (-.5 for that!) That brings me to 4.5 rounded up.
It seems that Sarah Pekkanen will make my “favorites list” two years in a row! I have also enjoyed her collaborations with Greer Hendricks.
A buddy read with DeAnn, MarilynW and Mary Beth. Be sure to read their reviews for additional insight!
AVAILABLE NOW!
THANK YOU to St. Martin’s Press for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
August 5, 2024
Outlier Island
2.5 stars
House of Glass is a psychological thriller about an attorney who must determine the best living situation for a nine-year-old child caught in the middle of her parent's divorce. Adding fuel to the fire is the little girl might have murdered her nanny.
Stella Hudson, a best interest attorney, is assigned to evaluate which parent Rose Barclay should live with once her parent's divorce. Stella and Rose share in common that both suffered childhood trauma and experienced mutism, causing Stella to dig deeper into her trauma. Rose, however, expresses some scary behavior, including violent outbursts and collecting household items to use as weapons. As Stella spends time with the Barclay family, she finds herself in danger.
Rose is a creepy child whose behavior is alarming, to say the least. She also seems to have an obsession with collecting glass shards and other sharp objects. I would have liked more scenes with Rose. Stella, the primary narrator, has an interesting backstory, but her voice is flat.
The novel has some interesting things going for it--an intriguing premise, sinister characters, and a creepy mansion that serves as the backdrop for the drama. However, the narrative is uneven, the characters are erratic, and there is way too much telling vs. showing. A lot of superfluous details are woven in-- why do we need to have detailed descriptions of all of Stella’s meals? At times, it felt like these details were there to compensate for a lack of character development.
There are two main twists, both of which I partially guessed. This did not take away from my enjoyment, but the outcome of one of them had me rolling my eyes.
The ending was a bit OTT, and Stella's acceptance of a close friend's behavior had me asking some serious questions. It all wraps up nicely and too neatly.
What could have been a dramatic, sinister novel became just another thriller. On the plus side, House of Glass is an easy read that scored high for entertainment value. But ignore my rant and read other reviews.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
House of Glass is a psychological thriller about an attorney who must determine the best living situation for a nine-year-old child caught in the middle of her parent's divorce. Adding fuel to the fire is the little girl might have murdered her nanny.
Stella Hudson, a best interest attorney, is assigned to evaluate which parent Rose Barclay should live with once her parent's divorce. Stella and Rose share in common that both suffered childhood trauma and experienced mutism, causing Stella to dig deeper into her trauma. Rose, however, expresses some scary behavior, including violent outbursts and collecting household items to use as weapons. As Stella spends time with the Barclay family, she finds herself in danger.
Rose is a creepy child whose behavior is alarming, to say the least. She also seems to have an obsession with collecting glass shards and other sharp objects. I would have liked more scenes with Rose. Stella, the primary narrator, has an interesting backstory, but her voice is flat.
The novel has some interesting things going for it--an intriguing premise, sinister characters, and a creepy mansion that serves as the backdrop for the drama. However, the narrative is uneven, the characters are erratic, and there is way too much telling vs. showing. A lot of superfluous details are woven in-- why do we need to have detailed descriptions of all of Stella’s meals? At times, it felt like these details were there to compensate for a lack of character development.
There are two main twists, both of which I partially guessed. This did not take away from my enjoyment, but the outcome of one of them had me rolling my eyes.
The ending was a bit OTT, and Stella's acceptance of a close friend's behavior had me asking some serious questions. It all wraps up nicely and too neatly.
What could have been a dramatic, sinister novel became just another thriller. On the plus side, House of Glass is an easy read that scored high for entertainment value. But ignore my rant and read other reviews.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2024
I can honestly say that after seeing so many raving five-star reviews and intriguing whodunit, claustrophobic plot lines from one of my auto-approved thriller authors, I raised my expectations level a notch more for an earth-shattering reading experience. However, I think I'm a little disappointed due to my exaggerated excitement levels. Perhaps it's related to using a child as an object of the murder plot that made me irritated.
I'm not saying you're going to read something like that. In this book, everyone is a suspect, and each of them has their motives, which is the main element of the story that keeps readers' excitement intact.
The plot revolves around the suspicious murder of the young nanny, Tina de la Cruz, who was taking care of the 9-year-old Rose. She had an affair with her father, Ian Barclay, and got pregnant. She's pushed down from the window, or she accidentally fell down. There are four people who witnessed the incident, as the case is presumed an accident.
The husband, Ian, who had an affair with the girl and had a motive to get rid of her to save his marriage; the wife, Beth Barclay, who seemed to have glass phobia after the incident and may have acted with jealousy and lost control; the mother-in-law, Harriet, who is staying with them for her injured leg, always choosing her daughter-in-law over her son and has every intention to protect the family; and the little Rose, who is suffering from mutism after the incident, is a closed box, an enigma, lately having problems with her nanny. Could this little girl also have violent tendencies?
Stella Hudson, who is recently divorced, a successful lawyer serving as counsel in custody cases, attended the case to decide what will be in the best interest of little Rose. She's the best candidate because, just like Rose, she also lost her voice when she was little after seeing her mother dead. Could she reveal the secrets the Barclays buried to help Rose, or did she already put her life in danger in the expanse of digging out the truth?
This whodunit theme, by putting each of the suspects on the spot, pushes you to make guesses. The worst part for me: I found the perpetrator too early. I also found the other revelation about Stella's life, which was obvious from the beginning, a little earlier. Those facts killed my excitement.
I also think the execution is a little long as it is combined with a trauma victim lawyer's inner turmoil, self-exploration to dig out her mother's mysterious case as she finds herself engaged more with the little girl who has been through the same tragic process. But instead of that, she finds herself experiencing the same process that the dead victim endured, such as threats, pranks, missing objects. At some parts, we feel like we're stuck with the grief of Stella a little more, which affects our concentration on the main case: what happened to Tina, which family member was involved in the situation?
I went back and forth between 3 and 4 stars; finally, I rounded up 3.5 stars to 4 for some smart explanations and the idea of the claustrophobic whodunit theme. But I can honestly say I didn't enjoy this book as much as the other works of the author. I expected some more "I never see it coming" twists. But they never came. I hope I'm going to love Pekkanen's next book more. She's one of the most brilliant thriller authors.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
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I'm not saying you're going to read something like that. In this book, everyone is a suspect, and each of them has their motives, which is the main element of the story that keeps readers' excitement intact.
The plot revolves around the suspicious murder of the young nanny, Tina de la Cruz, who was taking care of the 9-year-old Rose. She had an affair with her father, Ian Barclay, and got pregnant. She's pushed down from the window, or she accidentally fell down. There are four people who witnessed the incident, as the case is presumed an accident.
The husband, Ian, who had an affair with the girl and had a motive to get rid of her to save his marriage; the wife, Beth Barclay, who seemed to have glass phobia after the incident and may have acted with jealousy and lost control; the mother-in-law, Harriet, who is staying with them for her injured leg, always choosing her daughter-in-law over her son and has every intention to protect the family; and the little Rose, who is suffering from mutism after the incident, is a closed box, an enigma, lately having problems with her nanny. Could this little girl also have violent tendencies?
Stella Hudson, who is recently divorced, a successful lawyer serving as counsel in custody cases, attended the case to decide what will be in the best interest of little Rose. She's the best candidate because, just like Rose, she also lost her voice when she was little after seeing her mother dead. Could she reveal the secrets the Barclays buried to help Rose, or did she already put her life in danger in the expanse of digging out the truth?
This whodunit theme, by putting each of the suspects on the spot, pushes you to make guesses. The worst part for me: I found the perpetrator too early. I also found the other revelation about Stella's life, which was obvious from the beginning, a little earlier. Those facts killed my excitement.
I also think the execution is a little long as it is combined with a trauma victim lawyer's inner turmoil, self-exploration to dig out her mother's mysterious case as she finds herself engaged more with the little girl who has been through the same tragic process. But instead of that, she finds herself experiencing the same process that the dead victim endured, such as threats, pranks, missing objects. At some parts, we feel like we're stuck with the grief of Stella a little more, which affects our concentration on the main case: what happened to Tina, which family member was involved in the situation?
I went back and forth between 3 and 4 stars; finally, I rounded up 3.5 stars to 4 for some smart explanations and the idea of the claustrophobic whodunit theme. But I can honestly say I didn't enjoy this book as much as the other works of the author. I expected some more "I never see it coming" twists. But they never came. I hope I'm going to love Pekkanen's next book more. She's one of the most brilliant thriller authors.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest opinions.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
July 15, 2024
Not since the nanny’s creepy death in 1976’s The Omen has a nanny’s death been surrounded with such weird and menacing family dynamics!
Meet the Barclays: Ian, his wife Beth, mom Harriet and nine-year-old Rose. Ian was naughty with nanny Tina, who on the cusp of telling him she was pregnant, mysteriously fell through her attic bedroom window to her death. The case has gone cold, but now Ian and Beth are divorcing, Rose who witnessed the event has traumatic mutism, and Best Interest Attorney Stella Hudson has been assigned to determine which parent should have primary custody.
As Stella tries to do her job, she’s getting subtle and not-so-subtle pushback from the family, including Rose, whose behavior is getting creepier by the day! Stella’s past childhood traumatic mutism resulting from her own mother’s death has made her keenly sympathetic to Rose’s suffering. So why does the girl seem so angry with her, and why is she pocketing those sharp objects Stella has noticed?
One thing is clear, the deeper Stella digs into this family, the more danger she’s in!
Here’s where my thoughts on this book get a little complicated. It’s the tale of two formats.
On my Kindle, I liked this story. The Barclay home was its own cryptic character, the odd family dynamics brought a pervasive tension, Rose’s behavior was super creepy and grandma Harriet was her own enigma. The growing sense of threat to Stella was a nice undercurrent that kept me engaged, and a side story about her friend/mentor Charles added another layer of intrigue. There was a lot to like, even if I didn’t like this as much as last year’s Gone Tonight. I can’t say the ending surprised me, and it did go a little eye-rolly, but overall this was a solid, well-written psychological thriller.
This brings me to the audio. Normally, I love listening along while I read, but as anyone who likes audiobooks knows, a narrator can significantly impact your enjoyment. Unfortunately, that was the case here. If it hadn’t been an ALC, I would’ve stopped listening early on. Was it a poor performance by Laura Benanti? Not at all! It just had aspects I don’t prefer. I don’t like overly tremulous, emotional voicing when a female character is scared. I find it annoying more than engaging. Also Harriet is in her mid-sixties but she sounded like she was in her eighties, which affected believability. I didn’t hate the audio, but I didn’t love it.
So with all that said, the written story gets 4 stars, the audio gets 3 for an average of 3.5, which I’ll round up because the story kept me engaged to the end, and isn’t that what’s most important?
★★★ ½ (rounded to 4)
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and author Sarah Pekkanen for the digital ARC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC to honestly review. It’s out on August 6, 2024.
Meet the Barclays: Ian, his wife Beth, mom Harriet and nine-year-old Rose. Ian was naughty with nanny Tina, who on the cusp of telling him she was pregnant, mysteriously fell through her attic bedroom window to her death. The case has gone cold, but now Ian and Beth are divorcing, Rose who witnessed the event has traumatic mutism, and Best Interest Attorney Stella Hudson has been assigned to determine which parent should have primary custody.
As Stella tries to do her job, she’s getting subtle and not-so-subtle pushback from the family, including Rose, whose behavior is getting creepier by the day! Stella’s past childhood traumatic mutism resulting from her own mother’s death has made her keenly sympathetic to Rose’s suffering. So why does the girl seem so angry with her, and why is she pocketing those sharp objects Stella has noticed?
One thing is clear, the deeper Stella digs into this family, the more danger she’s in!
Here’s where my thoughts on this book get a little complicated. It’s the tale of two formats.
On my Kindle, I liked this story. The Barclay home was its own cryptic character, the odd family dynamics brought a pervasive tension, Rose’s behavior was super creepy and grandma Harriet was her own enigma. The growing sense of threat to Stella was a nice undercurrent that kept me engaged, and a side story about her friend/mentor Charles added another layer of intrigue. There was a lot to like, even if I didn’t like this as much as last year’s Gone Tonight. I can’t say the ending surprised me, and it did go a little eye-rolly, but overall this was a solid, well-written psychological thriller.
This brings me to the audio. Normally, I love listening along while I read, but as anyone who likes audiobooks knows, a narrator can significantly impact your enjoyment. Unfortunately, that was the case here. If it hadn’t been an ALC, I would’ve stopped listening early on. Was it a poor performance by Laura Benanti? Not at all! It just had aspects I don’t prefer. I don’t like overly tremulous, emotional voicing when a female character is scared. I find it annoying more than engaging. Also Harriet is in her mid-sixties but she sounded like she was in her eighties, which affected believability. I didn’t hate the audio, but I didn’t love it.
So with all that said, the written story gets 4 stars, the audio gets 3 for an average of 3.5, which I’ll round up because the story kept me engaged to the end, and isn’t that what’s most important?
★★★ ½ (rounded to 4)
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley and author Sarah Pekkanen for the digital ARC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC to honestly review. It’s out on August 6, 2024.
January 27, 2024
I’m not going to lie- I was very hesitant to read this as the author’s previous book, “Gone Tonight” was not one of my favorites. However, Sarah Pekkanen redeemed herself with “House of Glass”, because I absolutely enjoyed everything about this book! The writing and the storyline were absolutely remarkable!
In this story we have Stella Hudson, who is appointed counsel for Rose Barclay. Rose is a nine year old girl whose parents are going through a bitter divorce, and she has also just witnessed the death of her nanny. During this traumatic time, Rose has developed traumatic mutism and she cannot speak. Stella can relate to Rose because when Stella was a young girl she witnessed the death of her mother, and then developed traumatic mutism herself.
Because Rose’s parents are divorcing, it is Stella’s job to spend time with Rose and her parents to see who would be the better parent for Rose to live with once they divorce. We have the wealthy, uptight Beth Barclay- her mother. Then there is Ian Barclay, more down to earth and not so wealthy- her father. We soon learn that Ian’s mother, Harriet has lived with the Barclay’s for several years and is witness to many events that has happened within the family.
Which brings us to the death of the nanny, Tina. Tina fell to her death through her third story bedroom window. Was she pushed? Was it an accident? Or was it suicide? And did Rose witness what really happened that night? Also why are the parents replacing all the glass in the house? Even the mirrors are being replaced…
This book had my attention from the first page all the way through until the last! I loved Stella’s character, and felt that everything and everyone else was so relatable and real. I’m so glad that I took a chance with this book, and I cannot wait to read Pekkanen’s next! I highly recommend this twisty thriller!
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure of reading. Publication date: August 6, 2024.
Genre~ Women’s Fiction, Mystery & Thrillers
In this story we have Stella Hudson, who is appointed counsel for Rose Barclay. Rose is a nine year old girl whose parents are going through a bitter divorce, and she has also just witnessed the death of her nanny. During this traumatic time, Rose has developed traumatic mutism and she cannot speak. Stella can relate to Rose because when Stella was a young girl she witnessed the death of her mother, and then developed traumatic mutism herself.
Because Rose’s parents are divorcing, it is Stella’s job to spend time with Rose and her parents to see who would be the better parent for Rose to live with once they divorce. We have the wealthy, uptight Beth Barclay- her mother. Then there is Ian Barclay, more down to earth and not so wealthy- her father. We soon learn that Ian’s mother, Harriet has lived with the Barclay’s for several years and is witness to many events that has happened within the family.
Which brings us to the death of the nanny, Tina. Tina fell to her death through her third story bedroom window. Was she pushed? Was it an accident? Or was it suicide? And did Rose witness what really happened that night? Also why are the parents replacing all the glass in the house? Even the mirrors are being replaced…
This book had my attention from the first page all the way through until the last! I loved Stella’s character, and felt that everything and everyone else was so relatable and real. I’m so glad that I took a chance with this book, and I cannot wait to read Pekkanen’s next! I highly recommend this twisty thriller!
Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and the author for an ARC of this book which I had the pleasure of reading. Publication date: August 6, 2024.
Genre~ Women’s Fiction, Mystery & Thrillers
January 22, 2024
3.5 STARS rounded UP
The first half was such a page turner and this is why I'll be rounding up!
I had such high hopes and was getting all the eerie house type of vibes. I was so intrigued, then the second half shifted gears and the execution failed me! There was a lot of Stella and her background as a child, her trauma and inner thoughts. It became a subplot that slowed the pace down and took away from the main mystery of what happened to the nanny.
There are some intense moments that propelled the story, some good Deja vu moments that had me guessing wildly, but the wrap up was too convenient and didn't really give me that fist bump moment I was anticipating.
I still enjoyed so will round up on this 3.5 STAR review!
Thanks to NG for my early copy! OUT on August 6, 2024
The first half was such a page turner and this is why I'll be rounding up!
I had such high hopes and was getting all the eerie house type of vibes. I was so intrigued, then the second half shifted gears and the execution failed me! There was a lot of Stella and her background as a child, her trauma and inner thoughts. It became a subplot that slowed the pace down and took away from the main mystery of what happened to the nanny.
There are some intense moments that propelled the story, some good Deja vu moments that had me guessing wildly, but the wrap up was too convenient and didn't really give me that fist bump moment I was anticipating.
I still enjoyed so will round up on this 3.5 STAR review!
Thanks to NG for my early copy! OUT on August 6, 2024
August 28, 2024
Pure perfection. I can’t think of a better phrase to describe House of Glass. From the depth of the characters to the ever ratcheting foreboding, there simply wasn’t a thing missing from this psychological thriller. The plot itself was finely layered while my thoughts were constantly plagued with suspicion. First one character was the suspect and then, with just a turn of phrase, someone else took center stage. No matter what I did, the resolution to this original plot remained firmly—and happily—out of my grasp.
The characters, however, were easily my favorite piece to this dynamite stunner. Genuine and true, each and every one felt as though they could walk right off of the page. From the potentially wicked devil child to her devoted albeit suspicious attorney, their behaviors and actions also felt 100% authentic. Along with the realism, however, there was plenty of ongoing unease that radiated from the creepy setting and ominous events. Who was behind it all? Rose? Or someone else?
The naturally unfurling plot was, in all honesty, immersive storytelling at its best. With a blood-curdling climax and more than one moment that brought me to tears, this book reminded me quite a bit of Middle of the Night due to the feels, which also won me over hook, line, and sinker. From the spectacular pacing that seemed to swell with each additional short chapter to the palpable tension, the twists were truly something to behold. All told, it just couldn’t have been better. I promise that I’m not exaggerating.
Done and dusted, I know without a shadow of a doubt that this book will easily compete for my top read of the year. And while I’m not all that surprised given that Ms. Pekkanen is one of my favorite authors, this one somehow took the cake in terms of my undying love. With gripping dysfunctional family dynamics, dark secrets, and plenty of misdirection, it was, in a word, perfect. So order your copy today. You won’t regret it. I swear. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
On the outside they were the golden family with the perfect life. On the inside they built the perfect lie.
A young nanny who plunged to her death, or was she pushed? A nine-year-old girl who collects sharp objects and refuses to speak. A lawyer whose job it is to uncover who in the family is a victim and who is a murderer. But how can you find out the truth when everyone here is lying?
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who witnessed the possible murder of her nanny - in the midst of her parent's bitter divorce - and immediately stopped speaking. Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She never accepts clients under thirteen due to her own traumatic childhood, but Stella's mentor, a revered judge, believes Stella is the only one who can help.
From the moment Stella passes through the iron security gate and steps into the gilded, historic DC home of the Barclays, she realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she feared. And there's something eerie about the house itself: It's a plastic house, with not a single bit of glass to be found.
As Stella comes closer to uncovering the secrets the Barclays are desperate to hide, danger wraps around her like a shroud, and her past and present are set on a collision course in ways she never expected. Everyone is a suspect in the nanny's murder. The mother, the father, the grandmother, the nanny's boyfriend. Even Rose. Is the person Stella's supposed to protect the one she may need protection from?
Thank you to Sarah Pekkanen and St. Martin’s Press for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 6, 2024
Trigger warning: divorce, mention of: death of a parent, drug use, infidelity
The characters, however, were easily my favorite piece to this dynamite stunner. Genuine and true, each and every one felt as though they could walk right off of the page. From the potentially wicked devil child to her devoted albeit suspicious attorney, their behaviors and actions also felt 100% authentic. Along with the realism, however, there was plenty of ongoing unease that radiated from the creepy setting and ominous events. Who was behind it all? Rose? Or someone else?
The naturally unfurling plot was, in all honesty, immersive storytelling at its best. With a blood-curdling climax and more than one moment that brought me to tears, this book reminded me quite a bit of Middle of the Night due to the feels, which also won me over hook, line, and sinker. From the spectacular pacing that seemed to swell with each additional short chapter to the palpable tension, the twists were truly something to behold. All told, it just couldn’t have been better. I promise that I’m not exaggerating.
Done and dusted, I know without a shadow of a doubt that this book will easily compete for my top read of the year. And while I’m not all that surprised given that Ms. Pekkanen is one of my favorite authors, this one somehow took the cake in terms of my undying love. With gripping dysfunctional family dynamics, dark secrets, and plenty of misdirection, it was, in a word, perfect. So order your copy today. You won’t regret it. I swear. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
On the outside they were the golden family with the perfect life. On the inside they built the perfect lie.
A young nanny who plunged to her death, or was she pushed? A nine-year-old girl who collects sharp objects and refuses to speak. A lawyer whose job it is to uncover who in the family is a victim and who is a murderer. But how can you find out the truth when everyone here is lying?
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who witnessed the possible murder of her nanny - in the midst of her parent's bitter divorce - and immediately stopped speaking. Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She never accepts clients under thirteen due to her own traumatic childhood, but Stella's mentor, a revered judge, believes Stella is the only one who can help.
From the moment Stella passes through the iron security gate and steps into the gilded, historic DC home of the Barclays, she realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she feared. And there's something eerie about the house itself: It's a plastic house, with not a single bit of glass to be found.
As Stella comes closer to uncovering the secrets the Barclays are desperate to hide, danger wraps around her like a shroud, and her past and present are set on a collision course in ways she never expected. Everyone is a suspect in the nanny's murder. The mother, the father, the grandmother, the nanny's boyfriend. Even Rose. Is the person Stella's supposed to protect the one she may need protection from?
Thank you to Sarah Pekkanen and St. Martin’s Press for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 6, 2024
Trigger warning: divorce, mention of: death of a parent, drug use, infidelity
August 8, 2024
I gobbled this right up in two days! Talk about a great suspenseful story! Bravo Sarah Pekkanen!
A nanny has fallen to her death out of a window at the Barclay’s residence. A very wealthy couple who are going through a divorce with a nasty custody battle of their nine year old daughter, Rose. Stella Hudson has been appointed to represent Rose during the custody battle, looking out for her best interests.
Was Tina, the nanny murdered or did she fall during a terrible accident?
Man OH MAN, did I blow through this! Stella’s character is driven and stops at nothing to find out just what happened in that creepy freaking house. As she starts discovering, something is wickedly wrong with Rose! You know how some books portray evil kids in a very annoying way? Not here! Pekkanen does a splendid job throughout the book. Her writing is excellent and is superb at sucking the reader in!
Everyone in the house is a suspect! Who did it and why?
This is somewhat of a slow burn but HIGHLY SUSPENSEFUL in the process! Brilliant and wickedly good! I highly recommend you add this little number to your TBR!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’d like to give a massive thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley, and Sarah Pekkanen for the opportunity!
Expected publication date August 6, 2024
A nanny has fallen to her death out of a window at the Barclay’s residence. A very wealthy couple who are going through a divorce with a nasty custody battle of their nine year old daughter, Rose. Stella Hudson has been appointed to represent Rose during the custody battle, looking out for her best interests.
Was Tina, the nanny murdered or did she fall during a terrible accident?
Man OH MAN, did I blow through this! Stella’s character is driven and stops at nothing to find out just what happened in that creepy freaking house. As she starts discovering, something is wickedly wrong with Rose! You know how some books portray evil kids in a very annoying way? Not here! Pekkanen does a splendid job throughout the book. Her writing is excellent and is superb at sucking the reader in!
Everyone in the house is a suspect! Who did it and why?
This is somewhat of a slow burn but HIGHLY SUSPENSEFUL in the process! Brilliant and wickedly good! I highly recommend you add this little number to your TBR!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’d like to give a massive thanks to St. Martin’s Press, NetGalley, and Sarah Pekkanen for the opportunity!
Expected publication date August 6, 2024
March 6, 2024
I read this in less than 24 hours because it was that good. I had even been in a reading slump - and the second I picked this up, I was hooked!! There's nothing like a good creepy kid story to really get your heart racing, you know?
The twists and turns in this story aren't what I expected, but they also aren't unbelievable. At any moment, I was getting the information I needed to keep me interested, and that's always the mark of a good thriller for me: spectacular pacing.
Never did my mind wander. Everything felt important, and I truly enjoyed this one! I'll definitely be grabbing a trophy copy for my shelves as soon as it comes out!
**Thank you to St. Martin's Press & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
The twists and turns in this story aren't what I expected, but they also aren't unbelievable. At any moment, I was getting the information I needed to keep me interested, and that's always the mark of a good thriller for me: spectacular pacing.
Never did my mind wander. Everything felt important, and I truly enjoyed this one! I'll definitely be grabbing a trophy copy for my shelves as soon as it comes out!
**Thank you to St. Martin's Press & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
August 12, 2024
3.5⭐️
Stella Hudson, a best interest attorney by profession, is appointed as counsel for Rose Barclay, a nine-year-old girl whose parents are in the middle of a bitter divorce. Stella’s role is to determine the best custody arrangement for Rose, which entails interacting with Barclays and studying the dynamics within the family based on which a decision might be taken. Rose suffers from traumatic mutism – a condition that developed after she witnessed her twenty-six-year-old nanny, Tina de la Cruz, plunging to death from her window on the upper floor of the Barclays’ house. The circumstances surrounding Tina’s death remain a mystery and given Rose’s condition, her family – parents Ian and Beth and her grandmother, Harriet, are protective of Rose, to the extent that they would prefer to restrict Rose’s interaction with Stella.
Stella, who had a traumatic childhood herself, has Rose’s best interests at heart and tries to earn Rose’s trust, but Rose’s strange behavior on more than one occasion, her parents replacing all glass in the house with plastic and their overprotectiveness, leads Stella to believe that all the Barclays harbor dark secrets they are desperate to protect and Rose is at the center of it all. Will Stella be able to protect Rose and herself before anyone else gets hurt?
I thought the premise of House of Glass by Sarah Pekkanen was truly intriguing and was completely immersed in the first half of the novel. The pacing is on the slower side, which I did not mind and I loved the sinister vibes, the murder mystery with none of the Barclays, including Rose, above suspicion and the creepy glassless house. However, as the narrative progressed, my enthusiasm dampened. Truth be told, I enjoyed the way the element of mystery was built up and the suspenseful vibe of the novel, but the story lost momentum by including certain unnecessary subplots into the narrative. While I liked Stella and admired her dedication to her profession and how protective she was of Rose, there were certain aspects pertaining to Stella’s backstory that I felt were of no consequence to the plot and certain developments toward the end felt contrived.
I wish emphasis had been placed on the mystery aspect and there had been more showing than telling. Overall, though there was a lot about this novel that I liked, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had expected.
I paired my reading with the audiobook narrated by Laura Benanti. Though the narrator did a decent job of voicing the characters and the immersion reading experience was enjoyable, this is one of those rare occasions where I preferred the book over the audiobook.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press for the digital review copy and Macmillan Audio for ALC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Stella Hudson, a best interest attorney by profession, is appointed as counsel for Rose Barclay, a nine-year-old girl whose parents are in the middle of a bitter divorce. Stella’s role is to determine the best custody arrangement for Rose, which entails interacting with Barclays and studying the dynamics within the family based on which a decision might be taken. Rose suffers from traumatic mutism – a condition that developed after she witnessed her twenty-six-year-old nanny, Tina de la Cruz, plunging to death from her window on the upper floor of the Barclays’ house. The circumstances surrounding Tina’s death remain a mystery and given Rose’s condition, her family – parents Ian and Beth and her grandmother, Harriet, are protective of Rose, to the extent that they would prefer to restrict Rose’s interaction with Stella.
Stella, who had a traumatic childhood herself, has Rose’s best interests at heart and tries to earn Rose’s trust, but Rose’s strange behavior on more than one occasion, her parents replacing all glass in the house with plastic and their overprotectiveness, leads Stella to believe that all the Barclays harbor dark secrets they are desperate to protect and Rose is at the center of it all. Will Stella be able to protect Rose and herself before anyone else gets hurt?
I thought the premise of House of Glass by Sarah Pekkanen was truly intriguing and was completely immersed in the first half of the novel. The pacing is on the slower side, which I did not mind and I loved the sinister vibes, the murder mystery with none of the Barclays, including Rose, above suspicion and the creepy glassless house. However, as the narrative progressed, my enthusiasm dampened. Truth be told, I enjoyed the way the element of mystery was built up and the suspenseful vibe of the novel, but the story lost momentum by including certain unnecessary subplots into the narrative. While I liked Stella and admired her dedication to her profession and how protective she was of Rose, there were certain aspects pertaining to Stella’s backstory that I felt were of no consequence to the plot and certain developments toward the end felt contrived.
I wish emphasis had been placed on the mystery aspect and there had been more showing than telling. Overall, though there was a lot about this novel that I liked, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had expected.
I paired my reading with the audiobook narrated by Laura Benanti. Though the narrator did a decent job of voicing the characters and the immersion reading experience was enjoyable, this is one of those rare occasions where I preferred the book over the audiobook.
Many thanks to St. Martin's Press for the digital review copy and Macmillan Audio for ALC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
October 25, 2024
4.5 stars!
On the outside they were the golden family with the perfect life. On the inside they built the perfect lie.
A young nanny who plunged to her death, or was she pushed? A nine-year-old girl who collects sharp objects and refuses to speak. A lawyer whose job it is to uncover who in the family is a victim and who is a murderer. But how can you find out the truth when everyone here is lying?
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who witnessed the possible murder of her nanny - in the midst of her parent's bitter divorce - and immediately stopped speaking. Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She never accepts clients under thirteen due to her own traumatic childhood, but Stella's mentor, a revered judge, believes Stella is the only one who can help.
From the moment Stella passes through the iron security gate and steps into the gilded, historic DC home of the Barclays, she realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she feared. And there's something eerie about the house itself: It's a plastic house, with not a single bit of glass to be found.
As Stella comes closer to uncovering the secrets the Barclays are desperate to hide, danger wraps around her like a shroud, and her past and present are set on a collision course in ways she never expected. Everyone is a suspect in the nanny's murder. The mother, the father, the grandmother, the nanny's boyfriend. Even Rose. Is the person Stella's supposed to protect the one she may need protection from?
I was hooked straight from the beginning to the end This is a creepy dark and menacing domestic psychological thriller. Why does Rose have so many sharp objects? Why isn't the house not made out of glass and changed into plastic? Why is Rose reading a book by Ted Bundy?
The family is very dysfunctional. There are too many dark secrets lies and danger. I thought that it was a fast-paced read. Everyone is a suspect.
The characters are all well done. My favorite character was Stella. Rose is such a creepy kid. Rose is suffering from traumatic mutism and hasn't talked since the nanny's death. Who killed the nanny?
This is a gripping suspenseful read and I loved the twists.
I want to thank Netgalley, St. Martin's Press
For the copy of this book and exchange for an honest review.
On the outside they were the golden family with the perfect life. On the inside they built the perfect lie.
A young nanny who plunged to her death, or was she pushed? A nine-year-old girl who collects sharp objects and refuses to speak. A lawyer whose job it is to uncover who in the family is a victim and who is a murderer. But how can you find out the truth when everyone here is lying?
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl who witnessed the possible murder of her nanny - in the midst of her parent's bitter divorce - and immediately stopped speaking. Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. She never accepts clients under thirteen due to her own traumatic childhood, but Stella's mentor, a revered judge, believes Stella is the only one who can help.
From the moment Stella passes through the iron security gate and steps into the gilded, historic DC home of the Barclays, she realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she feared. And there's something eerie about the house itself: It's a plastic house, with not a single bit of glass to be found.
As Stella comes closer to uncovering the secrets the Barclays are desperate to hide, danger wraps around her like a shroud, and her past and present are set on a collision course in ways she never expected. Everyone is a suspect in the nanny's murder. The mother, the father, the grandmother, the nanny's boyfriend. Even Rose. Is the person Stella's supposed to protect the one she may need protection from?
I was hooked straight from the beginning to the end This is a creepy dark and menacing domestic psychological thriller. Why does Rose have so many sharp objects? Why isn't the house not made out of glass and changed into plastic? Why is Rose reading a book by Ted Bundy?
The family is very dysfunctional. There are too many dark secrets lies and danger. I thought that it was a fast-paced read. Everyone is a suspect.
The characters are all well done. My favorite character was Stella. Rose is such a creepy kid. Rose is suffering from traumatic mutism and hasn't talked since the nanny's death. Who killed the nanny?
This is a gripping suspenseful read and I loved the twists.
I want to thank Netgalley, St. Martin's Press
For the copy of this book and exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2024
The novel begins with Stella, a passionate advocate, diving into the case of Rose, a mute nine-year-old girl caught in a custody dispute. There are many secrets that need uncovering to protect Rose from being placed with the wrong parent.
The eerie mansion setting gives off those spooky vibes, even though it's not exactly a haunted house. Sarah, the author, does a fantastic job leading readers in one direction, only to surprise us with a clever twist. The plot keeps you on your toes, and I couldn't stop listening to the audiobook. The narration was absolutely top-notch, making the story even more captivating.
A big shoutout to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for letting me enjoy and review this fantastic audiobook. If you're into mystery and intrigue with a twisty plot, this one's for you!
The eerie mansion setting gives off those spooky vibes, even though it's not exactly a haunted house. Sarah, the author, does a fantastic job leading readers in one direction, only to surprise us with a clever twist. The plot keeps you on your toes, and I couldn't stop listening to the audiobook. The narration was absolutely top-notch, making the story even more captivating.
A big shoutout to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for letting me enjoy and review this fantastic audiobook. If you're into mystery and intrigue with a twisty plot, this one's for you!
August 6, 2024
Happy publication day!
3.5⭐
Genre ~ psychological fiction
Setting ~ Washington DC
Publication date ~ August 6, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 352 (68 chapters)
Audio length ~ 10 hours 43 minutes
Narrator ~ Laura Benanti
POV ~ single 1st, present tense
Featuring ~ dead nanny, infidelity, secrets, mentions of loss of parent, childhood trauma, drug addiction
Stella is an attorney working with 9 year old, Rose, to determine which parent she should live with after the divorce. Why a divorce you ask ~ well, shockingly, [insert eye roll], the husband was sleeping with the nanny, Tina. Tina falls to her death, Rose witnessed it and she hasn't spoken since.
All characters were unlikable, but I didn't hate that so much for this book. I thought Rose's character was well written. Let's just say it wasn't a bad idea to remove all the glass from the house.
Overall, this was just fine for me. There was a heart pounding hot minute at the end, but ultimately I found it to be pretty slow moving. Bringing so much of Stella's own childhood story gave us a whole second plot that could have been it's own book. And then her love interest at the end seemed surprising to me and even Stella herself.
I'm definitely in outlier land here as everyone is loving it 🤷
I was lucky enough to have both the ebook and the audio and both worked well.
Narration notes:
Laura did a wonderful job. She gave each character a distinct voice.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
3.5⭐
Genre ~ psychological fiction
Setting ~ Washington DC
Publication date ~ August 6, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 352 (68 chapters)
Audio length ~ 10 hours 43 minutes
Narrator ~ Laura Benanti
POV ~ single 1st, present tense
Featuring ~ dead nanny, infidelity, secrets, mentions of loss of parent, childhood trauma, drug addiction
Stella is an attorney working with 9 year old, Rose, to determine which parent she should live with after the divorce. Why a divorce you ask ~ well, shockingly, [insert eye roll], the husband was sleeping with the nanny, Tina. Tina falls to her death, Rose witnessed it and she hasn't spoken since.
All characters were unlikable, but I didn't hate that so much for this book. I thought Rose's character was well written. Let's just say it wasn't a bad idea to remove all the glass from the house.
Overall, this was just fine for me. There was a heart pounding hot minute at the end, but ultimately I found it to be pretty slow moving. Bringing so much of Stella's own childhood story gave us a whole second plot that could have been it's own book. And then her love interest at the end seemed surprising to me and even Stella herself.
I'm definitely in outlier land here as everyone is loving it 🤷
I was lucky enough to have both the ebook and the audio and both worked well.
Narration notes:
Laura did a wonderful job. She gave each character a distinct voice.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
September 25, 2024
4 Stars
It was my first time reading Sarah Pekkanen. A twisted family with secrets, I found House of Glass a dark and twisted story, well-paced, chilling, creepy, full of taut, suspense-filled, riveting moments and had me on the edge of my seat. l liked how the author let us see the insight of 9-year-old Rose with secrets and uncontrollable dark impulses that are downright creepy and terrifying. I paired my e-ARC with ALC, which Laura Benanti narrated. It was my first time listening to her. She did a fantastic job narrating, bringing a distinctive voice to the main and supporting characters.
I look forward to reading more of Sarah Pekkanen's books. I highly recommend you grab a copy; you won’t be disappointed. The author's prose was so vividly descriptive that I felt like I was right there as an observer watching the twisted story unfold. I had difficulty putting it down— I stayed up all night listening spellbound.
I want to thank St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for allowing an e-ARC and ALC of House of Glass by Sarah Pekkanen in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
It was my first time reading Sarah Pekkanen. A twisted family with secrets, I found House of Glass a dark and twisted story, well-paced, chilling, creepy, full of taut, suspense-filled, riveting moments and had me on the edge of my seat. l liked how the author let us see the insight of 9-year-old Rose with secrets and uncontrollable dark impulses that are downright creepy and terrifying. I paired my e-ARC with ALC, which Laura Benanti narrated. It was my first time listening to her. She did a fantastic job narrating, bringing a distinctive voice to the main and supporting characters.
I look forward to reading more of Sarah Pekkanen's books. I highly recommend you grab a copy; you won’t be disappointed. The author's prose was so vividly descriptive that I felt like I was right there as an observer watching the twisted story unfold. I had difficulty putting it down— I stayed up all night listening spellbound.
I want to thank St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for allowing an e-ARC and ALC of House of Glass by Sarah Pekkanen in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 20, 2024
3.5🌟
Stella Hudson is an attorney assigned to nine year old Rose. Rose's parents are going through a bitter divorce, both demanding sole custody of their beloved daughter. Stella has the most difficult task of determining what’s in Rose’s best interest.
Just to complicate things further, there is an additional issue.
The family’s nanny recently fell out of a second-floor window with dear Rose looking on. And she hasn’t spoken a word since.
As Stella digs deeper into Rose’s life she realizes this is a family harboring a host of secrets and she needs to tread carefully as she continues uncovering more lies!
I’ve been a huge fan of this author but this latest just failed to capture my interest. Was it the storyline? The characters? Though I had both digital and audio copy I chose the audio for the majority of the book. I wasn’t overly impressed with the narrator's performance and perhaps that distracted me from the book itself.🤷🏻♀️
Since I’m such a dedicated fan of this author I will be watching for her next offering. Maybe I’ll just stick with a digital copy!
A buddy 🎧 with Susanne
Thank you to St Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio
Stella Hudson is an attorney assigned to nine year old Rose. Rose's parents are going through a bitter divorce, both demanding sole custody of their beloved daughter. Stella has the most difficult task of determining what’s in Rose’s best interest.
Just to complicate things further, there is an additional issue.
The family’s nanny recently fell out of a second-floor window with dear Rose looking on. And she hasn’t spoken a word since.
As Stella digs deeper into Rose’s life she realizes this is a family harboring a host of secrets and she needs to tread carefully as she continues uncovering more lies!
I’ve been a huge fan of this author but this latest just failed to capture my interest. Was it the storyline? The characters? Though I had both digital and audio copy I chose the audio for the majority of the book. I wasn’t overly impressed with the narrator's performance and perhaps that distracted me from the book itself.🤷🏻♀️
Since I’m such a dedicated fan of this author I will be watching for her next offering. Maybe I’ll just stick with a digital copy!
A buddy 🎧 with Susanne
Thank you to St Martin’s Press and Macmillan Audio
August 18, 2024
**Many thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Sarah Pekkanen for an ARC of this book!**
"And I've got so little left to lose
That it feels just like I'm walking on broken glass..."-Walking on Broken Glass, Annie Lennox
Stella Hudson OFTEN feels this way...and never moreso than with her current case. As a best interest attorney, she always has to navigate the murky waters of right and wrong and the near-constant 'he said, she said' between parents while determining the best course of action in custody cases. It's a delicate dance, and one that takes ALL of Stella's strength...not to mention her dedication to keeping her own past trauma at bay. When she takes on the case of the Barclay family, however, there is an added layer of drama, death, and devastation: the family's nanny recently died after falling out of a window at the luxurious, historic Barclay home.
But was this an unfortunate accident... or a carefully executed plot to get the nanny out of the way?
There are a plethora of suspects here, from both Barclay parents (including the father, who some suspect to have had an affair with said nanny), the grandmother, the nanny's former boyfriend...and most disturbingly, the Barclay's only child: nine year old Rose. Stella would love to get to the bottom of things by getting Rose to open up and talk with her, but there's a slight problem: Rose has developed traumatic mutism after the incident and won't say a word to anyone. What begins to disturb Stella even more, however, are some of the oddities to be found in the Barclay home...most notably, that every single pane or piece of glass in the house has been replaced with plastic.
When she finds a small stash of 'weapons' Rose has hidden in her room, Stella's fear heightens...not to mention the book about a serial killer she has nestled by her bedside table. Is such a young, seemingly innocent girl carrying a dark and deadly penchant and fascination with murder? Was she so desperate to remove the nanny from her home that she would resort to ANY means necessary to make her 'go away?' And if Stella's hunch is correct...could Rose's silent rage turn in her direction and take her OFF this particular case... for good?
Sarah Pekkanen's latest solo effort (without her favorite writing buddy, Greer Hendricks) at first seemed somewhat reminiscent in terms of tone and theme to her last solo novel, Gone Tonight, which was a book I DEVOURED last year. Needless to say I was VERY eager to check out this one, and the idea of a house that had all of its glass removed was creepy, unique, and I'll be honest, sort of fascinating. I went in relatively blind, trying to maintain the aura of mystery and uncover the secrets of the Barclay family along with our narrator...and at first, for about the initial 40% or so, it wasn't too hard to do and I was pretty keyed in and intrigued to see where this would go.
But somewhere along the way, this House of Glass become more like a House of Cards...and let's just say one quick gust of boredom turned THAT into an impromptu game of 52 Card Pickup.
The first half of this book was somewhat straightforward, and in some ways, I was ENTIRELY okay with that. Rose is evil and your basic 'Damien from the Omen' vibes ensued. We got example after example of creepy instances, looks that felt off, strange happenings at home, anecdotal evidence of Rose's past problems at school, etc....ALL of which was certainly enough to ring the alarm bells for Stella. Again, not exactly new and exciting territory, but I didn't have too much trouble with buy-in. Stella moved about her days investigating, talking with the family members, still suspecting others (to an extent) and all of this SEEMED to be setting up a big final showdown between She Who Must Not Be Named and Stella. (And if this sounds a bit boring and repetitive, trust me, by about 50% it was ABSOLUTELY getting there.)
But of course...nothing in this book could be THAT simple....and the second half of this book is where it started to lose me entirely. We pivot sharply from the main mystery of the Barclay murder...and have to dive headfirst into STELLA'S past trauma. What was (potentially?) supposed to feel like a parallel felt more like heavy-handed storytelling, with LOTS of telling rather than showing, and all sorts of extraneous detail that felt out of place, to say the least. This second half of the book almost felt like a different book or even a different GENRE, and in this case, I just didn't gel with it whatsoever. Where Pekkanen made so many subtle, brilliant, emotional points in Gone Tonight about mothers and daughters...I didn't get ANY of that emotional gravitas here. This tonal shift just sort of snapped me out of the story to the point where I was begrudgingly flipping pages, waiting for it to end, rather than still feeling invested in who the murderer was or how they did it.
Honestly, it felt more like Stella needed to take a break from attorney life and just go to therapy for a while. For a minute I thought a horribly Hallmark-y ending was coming; thankfully, it did not, but the fact that the plot even SEEMED like it was going in that direction is a bit alarming. Stella also engages in some pretty, uh, unethical, behavior to say the least...so suspension of disbelief at her being able to get away with her actions is also required. There's also a random relationship (or the beginnings of one) thrown in toward the end of the book for no reason whatsoever (or none that I could glean). The very last chapter is also INCREDIBLY short and could have been left out entirely - not quite sure what that was about - and was just the eye-rolling icing on the cake. We also are given plenty of details that are unnecessary and unwanted towards the end. Where so many thrillers (or I guess, in this case, quasi-thrillers) leave the reader BRIMMING with unanswered questions, this one sort of spurted out a bunch of answers...when nobody had actually ASKED the questions.
But perhaps the biggest disappointment of all is that for a book that is ostensibly DRIVEN by being about a house with no glass in it...this winds up being nearly irrelevant to the plot. If THAT'S not a missed opportunity...I'm not sure what is.
...But then again, I guess 'House of Plastic' just didn't have that same ring to it.
😉
3 stars
"And I've got so little left to lose
That it feels just like I'm walking on broken glass..."-Walking on Broken Glass, Annie Lennox
Stella Hudson OFTEN feels this way...and never moreso than with her current case. As a best interest attorney, she always has to navigate the murky waters of right and wrong and the near-constant 'he said, she said' between parents while determining the best course of action in custody cases. It's a delicate dance, and one that takes ALL of Stella's strength...not to mention her dedication to keeping her own past trauma at bay. When she takes on the case of the Barclay family, however, there is an added layer of drama, death, and devastation: the family's nanny recently died after falling out of a window at the luxurious, historic Barclay home.
But was this an unfortunate accident... or a carefully executed plot to get the nanny out of the way?
There are a plethora of suspects here, from both Barclay parents (including the father, who some suspect to have had an affair with said nanny), the grandmother, the nanny's former boyfriend...and most disturbingly, the Barclay's only child: nine year old Rose. Stella would love to get to the bottom of things by getting Rose to open up and talk with her, but there's a slight problem: Rose has developed traumatic mutism after the incident and won't say a word to anyone. What begins to disturb Stella even more, however, are some of the oddities to be found in the Barclay home...most notably, that every single pane or piece of glass in the house has been replaced with plastic.
When she finds a small stash of 'weapons' Rose has hidden in her room, Stella's fear heightens...not to mention the book about a serial killer she has nestled by her bedside table. Is such a young, seemingly innocent girl carrying a dark and deadly penchant and fascination with murder? Was she so desperate to remove the nanny from her home that she would resort to ANY means necessary to make her 'go away?' And if Stella's hunch is correct...could Rose's silent rage turn in her direction and take her OFF this particular case... for good?
Sarah Pekkanen's latest solo effort (without her favorite writing buddy, Greer Hendricks) at first seemed somewhat reminiscent in terms of tone and theme to her last solo novel, Gone Tonight, which was a book I DEVOURED last year. Needless to say I was VERY eager to check out this one, and the idea of a house that had all of its glass removed was creepy, unique, and I'll be honest, sort of fascinating. I went in relatively blind, trying to maintain the aura of mystery and uncover the secrets of the Barclay family along with our narrator...and at first, for about the initial 40% or so, it wasn't too hard to do and I was pretty keyed in and intrigued to see where this would go.
But somewhere along the way, this House of Glass become more like a House of Cards...and let's just say one quick gust of boredom turned THAT into an impromptu game of 52 Card Pickup.
The first half of this book was somewhat straightforward, and in some ways, I was ENTIRELY okay with that. Rose is evil and your basic 'Damien from the Omen' vibes ensued. We got example after example of creepy instances, looks that felt off, strange happenings at home, anecdotal evidence of Rose's past problems at school, etc....ALL of which was certainly enough to ring the alarm bells for Stella. Again, not exactly new and exciting territory, but I didn't have too much trouble with buy-in. Stella moved about her days investigating, talking with the family members, still suspecting others (to an extent) and all of this SEEMED to be setting up a big final showdown between She Who Must Not Be Named and Stella. (And if this sounds a bit boring and repetitive, trust me, by about 50% it was ABSOLUTELY getting there.)
But of course...nothing in this book could be THAT simple....and the second half of this book is where it started to lose me entirely. We pivot sharply from the main mystery of the Barclay murder...and have to dive headfirst into STELLA'S past trauma. What was (potentially?) supposed to feel like a parallel felt more like heavy-handed storytelling, with LOTS of telling rather than showing, and all sorts of extraneous detail that felt out of place, to say the least. This second half of the book almost felt like a different book or even a different GENRE, and in this case, I just didn't gel with it whatsoever. Where Pekkanen made so many subtle, brilliant, emotional points in Gone Tonight about mothers and daughters...I didn't get ANY of that emotional gravitas here. This tonal shift just sort of snapped me out of the story to the point where I was begrudgingly flipping pages, waiting for it to end, rather than still feeling invested in who the murderer was or how they did it.
Honestly, it felt more like Stella needed to take a break from attorney life and just go to therapy for a while. For a minute I thought a horribly Hallmark-y ending was coming; thankfully, it did not, but the fact that the plot even SEEMED like it was going in that direction is a bit alarming. Stella also engages in some pretty, uh, unethical, behavior to say the least...so suspension of disbelief at her being able to get away with her actions is also required. There's also a random relationship (or the beginnings of one) thrown in toward the end of the book for no reason whatsoever (or none that I could glean). The very last chapter is also INCREDIBLY short and could have been left out entirely - not quite sure what that was about - and was just the eye-rolling icing on the cake. We also are given plenty of details that are unnecessary and unwanted towards the end. Where so many thrillers (or I guess, in this case, quasi-thrillers) leave the reader BRIMMING with unanswered questions, this one sort of spurted out a bunch of answers...when nobody had actually ASKED the questions.
But perhaps the biggest disappointment of all is that for a book that is ostensibly DRIVEN by being about a house with no glass in it...this winds up being nearly irrelevant to the plot. If THAT'S not a missed opportunity...I'm not sure what is.
...But then again, I guess 'House of Plastic' just didn't have that same ring to it.
😉
3 stars
August 14, 2024
Hmmmm is the danger within the home?
House of Glass follows the aftermath of a young nanny who plunged to her demise but was it an accident or was she pushed? This is what attorney Stella Hudson must find out. On the day of the tragic accident, the mother, the father, the grandmother and nine-year-old daughter Ruby Barclay were present at home. Everyone is acting shady, the home they all reside in is all made from plastic with not a single glass present. Stella is about to uncover a whole lot more about this case while also dealing with her past.
This book gripped it from the onset. The author’s writing style is very engaging and not too overly detailed. The characters were very ominous and us as the readers have a reason to suspect all of them as being a culprit as their behavior's are super sketchy. This is a slow burn read for sure and I could see that the author was trying to amp up the suspense factor, but it fell a little flat for me.
The emphasis on the book was that after the death of the nanny, nine-year-old Rose stopped speaking completely, plus she’s secretly collecting sharp objects when she thinks no one is watching. But Stella happens to witness this and tries and see if she can get Rose talking again as she believes Rose knows exactly what happened.
For me I don’t think enough spotlight was used on Rose. She is present in the storyline but not as much as I would have preferred. It felt like she was scattered along the story, and I was looking forward to getting more engagement on this creepy little girl that seems to be wise beyond her years.
As for the other family members particularly the mum and dad they came across quite caricaturised and I didn’t particularly care for them or what they had to stay.
I’m not going to lie to you I guessed the twist quite early on and it was fully confirmed to me in a particular chapter. After that I was going through the pages thinking ‘I wish this book would stop waffling on and just get on with it’.
Even Stella subplot story about the passing away of her mother and the mystery surrounding that was semi-interesting but again I knew what was coming thereafter.
The reveal for me had me cracking up at the absurdity of it all. Like…. REALLLLLLLLLYYYYY??? and the aftermath was wrapped up in a perfect bow and everyone kept it moving.
Although not an outstanding five star read and not very thrilling IMO, It did held my interest for the most part and I did enjoy the writing style from the author so I am intrigued to check out more of her work.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
I am so freaking excited to read this!!!
The blurb got me instantly!!!
Please please please be a winner!! 💜💛
House of Glass follows the aftermath of a young nanny who plunged to her demise but was it an accident or was she pushed? This is what attorney Stella Hudson must find out. On the day of the tragic accident, the mother, the father, the grandmother and nine-year-old daughter Ruby Barclay were present at home. Everyone is acting shady, the home they all reside in is all made from plastic with not a single glass present. Stella is about to uncover a whole lot more about this case while also dealing with her past.
This book gripped it from the onset. The author’s writing style is very engaging and not too overly detailed. The characters were very ominous and us as the readers have a reason to suspect all of them as being a culprit as their behavior's are super sketchy. This is a slow burn read for sure and I could see that the author was trying to amp up the suspense factor, but it fell a little flat for me.
The emphasis on the book was that after the death of the nanny, nine-year-old Rose stopped speaking completely, plus she’s secretly collecting sharp objects when she thinks no one is watching. But Stella happens to witness this and tries and see if she can get Rose talking again as she believes Rose knows exactly what happened.
For me I don’t think enough spotlight was used on Rose. She is present in the storyline but not as much as I would have preferred. It felt like she was scattered along the story, and I was looking forward to getting more engagement on this creepy little girl that seems to be wise beyond her years.
As for the other family members particularly the mum and dad they came across quite caricaturised and I didn’t particularly care for them or what they had to stay.
I’m not going to lie to you I guessed the twist quite early on and it was fully confirmed to me in a particular chapter. After that I was going through the pages thinking ‘I wish this book would stop waffling on and just get on with it’.
Even Stella subplot story about the passing away of her mother and the mystery surrounding that was semi-interesting but again I knew what was coming thereafter.
The reveal for me had me cracking up at the absurdity of it all. Like…. REALLLLLLLLLYYYYY??? and the aftermath was wrapped up in a perfect bow and everyone kept it moving.
Although not an outstanding five star read and not very thrilling IMO, It did held my interest for the most part and I did enjoy the writing style from the author so I am intrigued to check out more of her work.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
I am so freaking excited to read this!!!
The blurb got me instantly!!!
Please please please be a winner!! 💜💛
May 27, 2024
Gripping, shocking, twisted, and full of suspects!
The Barclays are a wealthy family living in a historic luxurious DC home. Things appear picture perfect until their Nanny dies after falling out their attic window. Stella, an attorney, is called in to determine who is a victim and to advocate for nine-year-old, Rose who is not speaking but witnessed her Nanny fall out the window. Not only is Rose not speaking, but she has been collecting sharp objects and pieces of glass. During her investigation, Stella learns the many secrets that the divorcing family is hiding. Who is responsible for the Nanny's death? Who has the most to hide? Who knows the truth?
House of Glass is full of secrets, lies, deception, hidden motivations, suspense, tension, and danger. I had a great time doing my own super sleuthing trying to determine whodunit! I enjoyed the feeling of unease that flowed throughout the book while not knowing who could be trusted.
I found this book to be well written, well thought out, and loved how the tension built throughout the book. I also enjoyed the something-isn't-quite-right feeling that Sarah Pekkanen expertly created in this book. Rose is a fabulously drawn character. I kept changing my thoughts on her throughout the book. Pekkanen kept me on my toes, turning the pages and fully invested in the plot.
Gripping, thrilling, shocking, and suspenseful!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
The Barclays are a wealthy family living in a historic luxurious DC home. Things appear picture perfect until their Nanny dies after falling out their attic window. Stella, an attorney, is called in to determine who is a victim and to advocate for nine-year-old, Rose who is not speaking but witnessed her Nanny fall out the window. Not only is Rose not speaking, but she has been collecting sharp objects and pieces of glass. During her investigation, Stella learns the many secrets that the divorcing family is hiding. Who is responsible for the Nanny's death? Who has the most to hide? Who knows the truth?
House of Glass is full of secrets, lies, deception, hidden motivations, suspense, tension, and danger. I had a great time doing my own super sleuthing trying to determine whodunit! I enjoyed the feeling of unease that flowed throughout the book while not knowing who could be trusted.
I found this book to be well written, well thought out, and loved how the tension built throughout the book. I also enjoyed the something-isn't-quite-right feeling that Sarah Pekkanen expertly created in this book. Rose is a fabulously drawn character. I kept changing my thoughts on her throughout the book. Pekkanen kept me on my toes, turning the pages and fully invested in the plot.
Gripping, thrilling, shocking, and suspenseful!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
September 18, 2024
3.75 Stars
I enjoyed this well enough. I figured out a lot of the twists before they happened, but I was still very entertained. In fact, I ended up reading this is in one sitting, which always bumps a book's rating up for me.
The tone was a good blend of haunting/creepy and I am always game for a creepy kid with potential psychopathy. So there's that.
All in all a decent read. I like author.
Favorite Quote:
"'Often, what we see in art is a reflection of us. Of our optics. Our mindset. Have you ever tried to read a novel and not enjoyed it, then gone back at another point in time and loved it? The story didn't change. But you did.'"
I enjoyed this well enough. I figured out a lot of the twists before they happened, but I was still very entertained. In fact, I ended up reading this is in one sitting, which always bumps a book's rating up for me.
The tone was a good blend of haunting/creepy and I am always game for a creepy kid with potential psychopathy. So there's that.
All in all a decent read. I like author.
Favorite Quote:
"'Often, what we see in art is a reflection of us. Of our optics. Our mindset. Have you ever tried to read a novel and not enjoyed it, then gone back at another point in time and loved it? The story didn't change. But you did.'"
June 19, 2024
"The menace twines greedily around me, as if seeking a new host. It wraps me in a vise so tight I feel nailed to the chair."
That quote from this book describes my reading experience perfectly. Talk about a page-turner! 👀
Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney that works with kids whose parents are divorcing. It's up to her to decide what is best for the child and to which parent is granted custody. She's about to get a case like no other.
Meet the Barclays: Beth, Ian, Rose, and grandmother Harriet. Beth and Ian are divorcing and both are demanding full custody of nine year old Rose. They choose to remain living together within the walls of their opulent home since Rose experienced a traumatic experience. She witnessed her Nanny fall from a third floor window tragically to her death. She hasn't spoken a word since then.
Was it an accident? Was it suicide? Or was it murder? You'll have to read this to find out.
Holy creepy kid alert. 😨 Yikes! I've always been a fan of the creepy kid trope and this one was done exceptionally.
Pekkanen nailed the menacing atmosphere. My anxiety level was at a 10 for most of the book . Except for Stella no one at all seemed trustworthy. All were lying and keeping secrets and I couldn't tear my eyes away.
Along with the story of Rose and the dead Nanny we get the back story on Stella who also suffered traumatic mutism as a child which makes her ideal for taking on the case. Throughout the book we learn of Stella's tragic past and while I know this helps us get a better understanding into Stella's character I just didn't find it nearly as interesting as the Barclay's story which had me fully captivated. That's a very small complaint though because this book is truly outstanding otherwise. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my complimentary copy.
That quote from this book describes my reading experience perfectly. Talk about a page-turner! 👀
Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney that works with kids whose parents are divorcing. It's up to her to decide what is best for the child and to which parent is granted custody. She's about to get a case like no other.
Meet the Barclays: Beth, Ian, Rose, and grandmother Harriet. Beth and Ian are divorcing and both are demanding full custody of nine year old Rose. They choose to remain living together within the walls of their opulent home since Rose experienced a traumatic experience. She witnessed her Nanny fall from a third floor window tragically to her death. She hasn't spoken a word since then.
Was it an accident? Was it suicide? Or was it murder? You'll have to read this to find out.
Holy creepy kid alert. 😨 Yikes! I've always been a fan of the creepy kid trope and this one was done exceptionally.
Pekkanen nailed the menacing atmosphere. My anxiety level was at a 10 for most of the book . Except for Stella no one at all seemed trustworthy. All were lying and keeping secrets and I couldn't tear my eyes away.
Along with the story of Rose and the dead Nanny we get the back story on Stella who also suffered traumatic mutism as a child which makes her ideal for taking on the case. Throughout the book we learn of Stella's tragic past and while I know this helps us get a better understanding into Stella's character I just didn't find it nearly as interesting as the Barclay's story which had me fully captivated. That's a very small complaint though because this book is truly outstanding otherwise. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my complimentary copy.
April 29, 2024
Rose, a nine-year-old girl witnessed the possible murder of her nanny and immediately stopped speaking. Her parents are divorcing and Stella, a best interest attorney, is appointed to serve as counsel for Rose in the bitter custody battle.
Stella quickly realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she imagined.
And there's something creepy about the house itself: there’s not a single shard of glass to be found: all glass was replaced by plastic.
Stella has quite a complicated past herself when she witnessed her mother’s death when she was a child, and also suffered from traumatic mutism. Which makes her the perfect person to relate to Rose.
Everyone in the house is a suspect, and everyone is lying. As Rose uncovers secrets she’s also forced to confront her own past.
This was an interesting premise that kept me guessing. A fun read, even if I did have to set aside some issues I had with the story, so a 4 star from me.
* I received a digital copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
Stella quickly realizes the case is even more twisted, and the Barclay family far more troubled, than she imagined.
And there's something creepy about the house itself: there’s not a single shard of glass to be found: all glass was replaced by plastic.
Stella has quite a complicated past herself when she witnessed her mother’s death when she was a child, and also suffered from traumatic mutism. Which makes her the perfect person to relate to Rose.
Everyone in the house is a suspect, and everyone is lying. As Rose uncovers secrets she’s also forced to confront her own past.
This was an interesting premise that kept me guessing. A fun read, even if I did have to set aside some issues I had with the story, so a 4 star from me.
* I received a digital copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own
September 6, 2024
Evil isn’t merely a word. It’s a tangible, dimensional thing. It slithers through the air, shifting molecules and displacing energy as it considers various hunting grounds. Once it homes in on a target, its malevolent arc of electricity affixes to its prey.
A suspicious death, a silent child, divorcing parents.
Which parent does the child belong with?
Is one of them a danger to the child? Or is the child a danger to them?
Something evil lurks in the plastic house.
And why is everything in their creepy, suffocating house made of plastic?
What I liked about the book was its short chapters and the chills almost every chapter ending gave me and made me read the next one. The mystery surrounding the house and the family who live in it was also intriguing.
What I didn’t much like about the book, was some repetitious bits, some unbelievablenesses and as per usual, the recklessness of the intelligent protagonist in the face of danger.
That said, I for one, who has read her share of nauseatingly over-twisty psychological mysteries, solemnly promise that my eye-rolling was minimal.
Also, I wish the book would be adapted into a movie.
A suspicious death, a silent child, divorcing parents.
Which parent does the child belong with?
Is one of them a danger to the child? Or is the child a danger to them?
Something evil lurks in the plastic house.
And why is everything in their creepy, suffocating house made of plastic?
What I liked about the book was its short chapters and the chills almost every chapter ending gave me and made me read the next one. The mystery surrounding the house and the family who live in it was also intriguing.
What I didn’t much like about the book, was some repetitious bits, some unbelievablenesses and as per usual, the recklessness of the intelligent protagonist in the face of danger.
That said, I for one, who has read her share of nauseatingly over-twisty psychological mysteries, solemnly promise that my eye-rolling was minimal.
Also, I wish the book would be adapted into a movie.
July 25, 2024
Unfortunately I was not a big fan of this, some plots I questioned why they were in there, and a lot of unbelievable circumstances.
A child advocate is trying to decide what's best for the child, while her parents are going through a divorce, in the wake of a nanny falling to her death. A case of who done it. Our child advocate also delves into her past to figure out what and how her mother died.
Solid 3 stars!
Thanks to St Martin's press and Net Galley for this ARC! Humbled and blessed
HOUSE OF GLASS OUT AUG 6TH!!!!!
A child advocate is trying to decide what's best for the child, while her parents are going through a divorce, in the wake of a nanny falling to her death. A case of who done it. Our child advocate also delves into her past to figure out what and how her mother died.
Solid 3 stars!
Thanks to St Martin's press and Net Galley for this ARC! Humbled and blessed
HOUSE OF GLASS OUT AUG 6TH!!!!!
August 1, 2024
While reading HOUSE OF GLASS, I experienced the same imminent danger ahead vibes that I associate with the old Alfred Hitchcock Hour Show with its sinister music by Bernard Herrmann overtook me, raising goosebumps on my arms. Hitchcock was an expert at creating scream-worthy fear from the ordinary be it a normal person, object or situation and now, in my opinion, so is Author Sarah Pekkanen. There's a sense of foreboding, of fear brought on by the unknown, a hidden danger you know is coming - just not from where, when or how in HOUSE OF GLASS.
Recently divorced, Best Interest Attorney Stella Hudson reluctantly accepts a child custody case at the urgent request of her dearest old friend and mentor Charlie after he convinces her she's the best lawyer to help a young girl suffering from Traumatic Mutism - a condition that rendered Stella unable to speak for a period of time as a young child following the trauma of finding her own mother dead. Young Rose Barclay hasn't spoken since she witnessed the mysterious death of her nanny Tina who either fell or was pushed from an upper floor window in the Barclay mansion. Rose's parents, Ian and Beth, are amid a bitter custody battle, and Stella must determine which one of them will provide the most stable, safe home for Rose. From her first arrival at the Barclay's large, sterile, historic home, warning bells sound in Stella's head. Something is very wrong in this gilded house and her first instinct is to run screaming, but she made a promise to see this assignment through and she will. As the story progresses, it becomes obvious that every person in the household is lying, and each has a motive for wanting Tina dead . . . including young Rose with the dark, haunting eyes who's been hiding sharp objects in her room. Why? Is she afraid of someone? Or is she planning on harming someone? Stella needs to uncover the truth quickly as threats warning her to leave and stay away escalate even as her own secret past comes calling.
Pekkanen has brilliantly mastered the art of creating a menacing tone that resonates throughout a story with highly atmospheric settings, hard to read characters and eerie, complex plot lines. A sense of unease and a strong undercurrent of danger increases page by page as you read HOUSE OF GLASS. The author offers up several red herrings with strong motive and challenges Stella and readers with figuring out which one of them is a killer. I had a strong feeling about the identity of the villain, and my intuition proved to be right, but the evil tone that permeates each page of this book kept me riveted in my seat, burning through pages until the end - with every light in the room on. The cast is outstanding with well-defined characters harboring dark, disturbing secrets. A second story line involving Stella's past intertwines throughout, adding another dimension and intriguing backstory into Stella's life.
HOUSE OF GLASS is a creepy, well-written, multi-layered psychological thriller that's sure to entertain fans who enjoy books that leave them with a sense of unease and armchair sleuths who love solving a good murder mystery. Lies, deception, fraud and secrets abound in the face of innocence in this story. Highly recommended to fans of psychological thrillers.
Special thanks to St. Martins Press and Author Sarah Pekkanen for a gifted arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. House of Glass is scheduled for release on Aug. 6, 2024. My review is published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and is also available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
Recently divorced, Best Interest Attorney Stella Hudson reluctantly accepts a child custody case at the urgent request of her dearest old friend and mentor Charlie after he convinces her she's the best lawyer to help a young girl suffering from Traumatic Mutism - a condition that rendered Stella unable to speak for a period of time as a young child following the trauma of finding her own mother dead. Young Rose Barclay hasn't spoken since she witnessed the mysterious death of her nanny Tina who either fell or was pushed from an upper floor window in the Barclay mansion. Rose's parents, Ian and Beth, are amid a bitter custody battle, and Stella must determine which one of them will provide the most stable, safe home for Rose. From her first arrival at the Barclay's large, sterile, historic home, warning bells sound in Stella's head. Something is very wrong in this gilded house and her first instinct is to run screaming, but she made a promise to see this assignment through and she will. As the story progresses, it becomes obvious that every person in the household is lying, and each has a motive for wanting Tina dead . . . including young Rose with the dark, haunting eyes who's been hiding sharp objects in her room. Why? Is she afraid of someone? Or is she planning on harming someone? Stella needs to uncover the truth quickly as threats warning her to leave and stay away escalate even as her own secret past comes calling.
Pekkanen has brilliantly mastered the art of creating a menacing tone that resonates throughout a story with highly atmospheric settings, hard to read characters and eerie, complex plot lines. A sense of unease and a strong undercurrent of danger increases page by page as you read HOUSE OF GLASS. The author offers up several red herrings with strong motive and challenges Stella and readers with figuring out which one of them is a killer. I had a strong feeling about the identity of the villain, and my intuition proved to be right, but the evil tone that permeates each page of this book kept me riveted in my seat, burning through pages until the end - with every light in the room on. The cast is outstanding with well-defined characters harboring dark, disturbing secrets. A second story line involving Stella's past intertwines throughout, adding another dimension and intriguing backstory into Stella's life.
HOUSE OF GLASS is a creepy, well-written, multi-layered psychological thriller that's sure to entertain fans who enjoy books that leave them with a sense of unease and armchair sleuths who love solving a good murder mystery. Lies, deception, fraud and secrets abound in the face of innocence in this story. Highly recommended to fans of psychological thrillers.
Special thanks to St. Martins Press and Author Sarah Pekkanen for a gifted arc of this title. All opinions expressed are my own. House of Glass is scheduled for release on Aug. 6, 2024. My review is published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and is also available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
August 12, 2024
Rose Barclay is a nine-year-old girl whose parents are in the midst of a bitter divorce and who stopped speaking after witnessing the death of her nanny which may or may not have been murder. Stella Hudson is a best interest attorney, appointed to serve as counsel for children in custody cases. As Stella talks to and observes the Barclays in their historic DC home her feeling of dread increases and brings back memories of her own childhood.
First, I have to say that I didn't realize there was such a thing as a "best interest attorney" but I looked it up and it's a real occupation. Second, I can't believe this book was written by the same person who wrote such mediocre (imo) books as "Gone Tonight" and "The Perfect Neighbors". This one surpassed both of those - again, in my opinion.
I was totally drawn into this story and the sense of foreboding that it engendered. The side story about Charles, Stella's mentor, was also intriguing but I didn't really like how that thread was wrapped up. There's a good mix of characters and the short chapters made the book easy to race through. There are many many reviews of this book so I'm keeping mine short and sweet!
My thanks to St. Martin's Press via Netgalley for providing access to the ARC of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: August 6, 2024
First, I have to say that I didn't realize there was such a thing as a "best interest attorney" but I looked it up and it's a real occupation. Second, I can't believe this book was written by the same person who wrote such mediocre (imo) books as "Gone Tonight" and "The Perfect Neighbors". This one surpassed both of those - again, in my opinion.
I was totally drawn into this story and the sense of foreboding that it engendered. The side story about Charles, Stella's mentor, was also intriguing but I didn't really like how that thread was wrapped up. There's a good mix of characters and the short chapters made the book easy to race through. There are many many reviews of this book so I'm keeping mine short and sweet!
My thanks to St. Martin's Press via Netgalley for providing access to the ARC of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publication Date: August 6, 2024
June 30, 2024
3.5 Stella, a woman who determines who gets custody of the child in a custody dispute. Nne year old Rose deals with a great deal of stress, her nanny has supposedly jumped out a window, and Rose is now mute. Stella has no idea what she is getting herself into, because there is much going on under the surface. Appearances can be deceptive.
This did pull me into the story, mostly because of young Rose, wanted to learn what the final decision would be. Something that I felt could have been better is to make me feel how the house was scary, cloying. It didn't, it was tell not show.
"The parts of ourselves we keep hidden are the ones that are most in need of sunlight."
"Everyone has abit of darkness inside."
This did pull me into the story, mostly because of young Rose, wanted to learn what the final decision would be. Something that I felt could have been better is to make me feel how the house was scary, cloying. It didn't, it was tell not show.
"The parts of ourselves we keep hidden are the ones that are most in need of sunlight."
"Everyone has abit of darkness inside."
May 28, 2024
House of Glass is a tense thriller following our main character Stella who has been called on the case to help a 9 year old girl Rose through a difficult situation.
Rose’s parents are both fighting for full custody in the midst of a messy divorce, the judge has reached an Impasse due to recent events involving the suspicious death of Roses nanny, a case that has since gone cold due to lack of evidence.
The problem is either parent could be a killer, and Stella is facing the impossible task of finding the safest home for Rose to live in, something even the police couldn’t figure out.
It is clear from the first time Stella steps foot into Roses home that something isn’t right. She senses a dark presence within the home, an unnerving feeling she can’t seem to shake. The more time she spends on the case the more she realizes there’s more than two suspects, anybody could be the killer and she has to race to figure it out whilst also battling demons from her own past that have begun to resurface.
This is a bit of a slow burn but the tension is palpable from the very beginning, throughout. Rose gave me the creeps from the getgo, a traumatized mute young girl who has a habit of collecting sharp objects. I’d class this as unputdownable because I couldn’t stop reading until I had answers. The author does an excellent job of misdirection and providing multiple possible suspects.
The setting is very ominous, a large estate void of any glass which seems to be harbouring an evil presence. A dysfunctional family keeping secrets and telling lies. Dark clouds overhead that seem to get closer and closer the more Stella is triggered by her own past traumas.
This is definitely a bingeable read and I enjoyed the sinister tones throughout. The author did a great job of making the writing contrast between menacing yet poetic.
I was very pleased with the ending, everything was answered, wrapped up to perfection and a lot of conversations where had and relationships mended that I hoped to see.
Thank you to NetGalley and saint Martin’s press for an advanced copy!
Rose’s parents are both fighting for full custody in the midst of a messy divorce, the judge has reached an Impasse due to recent events involving the suspicious death of Roses nanny, a case that has since gone cold due to lack of evidence.
The problem is either parent could be a killer, and Stella is facing the impossible task of finding the safest home for Rose to live in, something even the police couldn’t figure out.
It is clear from the first time Stella steps foot into Roses home that something isn’t right. She senses a dark presence within the home, an unnerving feeling she can’t seem to shake. The more time she spends on the case the more she realizes there’s more than two suspects, anybody could be the killer and she has to race to figure it out whilst also battling demons from her own past that have begun to resurface.
This is a bit of a slow burn but the tension is palpable from the very beginning, throughout. Rose gave me the creeps from the getgo, a traumatized mute young girl who has a habit of collecting sharp objects. I’d class this as unputdownable because I couldn’t stop reading until I had answers. The author does an excellent job of misdirection and providing multiple possible suspects.
The setting is very ominous, a large estate void of any glass which seems to be harbouring an evil presence. A dysfunctional family keeping secrets and telling lies. Dark clouds overhead that seem to get closer and closer the more Stella is triggered by her own past traumas.
This is definitely a bingeable read and I enjoyed the sinister tones throughout. The author did a great job of making the writing contrast between menacing yet poetic.
I was very pleased with the ending, everything was answered, wrapped up to perfection and a lot of conversations where had and relationships mended that I hoped to see.
Thank you to NetGalley and saint Martin’s press for an advanced copy!
September 29, 2024
One of the first visuals the author wants readers to see is one of the main protagonists, named Rose, a little girl of 9, picking up a piece of glass and hiding it under her sleeve. Is the author trying to portray her as sinister? Or, is she trying to put doubt in the mind about Roses’ character to our other main protagonist, Stella, who is sent in to work with her? Or, even worse, is the author, wanting us, the reader to distrust Rose?
Whatever the author has in mind, it appears to be her way of wanting to lend credence to why she chose the title of her book.
Needless to say, for this reader, there were a lot of cliches to this story. Vulnerable women. The appearances of a creepy kid. A husband sleeping with a nanny. (Who is now dead {nanny}, by the way.) A dissolving marriage. Nothing is quite as it seems. (So, readers be on your toes!) And, a lot of red herrings, that seemed to have nothing to do with the plot. At all.
And, even when everything seemed to be wrapped up, the story kept going. Why, I wondered. Was there something else to be revealed, still? Or just another way for the author to clean up loose ends?
As a reader, I found this story disappointing, and downright horrifying. To be honest, I think I have become rather tired of so-called “psychological” thrillers that use child characters in this abhorrent way. But please go read other reviews. I am probably an outlier with this one. I liked her book, “Gone Tonight” a tad better. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Whatever the author has in mind, it appears to be her way of wanting to lend credence to why she chose the title of her book.
Needless to say, for this reader, there were a lot of cliches to this story. Vulnerable women. The appearances of a creepy kid. A husband sleeping with a nanny. (Who is now dead {nanny}, by the way.) A dissolving marriage. Nothing is quite as it seems. (So, readers be on your toes!) And, a lot of red herrings, that seemed to have nothing to do with the plot. At all.
And, even when everything seemed to be wrapped up, the story kept going. Why, I wondered. Was there something else to be revealed, still? Or just another way for the author to clean up loose ends?
As a reader, I found this story disappointing, and downright horrifying. To be honest, I think I have become rather tired of so-called “psychological” thrillers that use child characters in this abhorrent way. But please go read other reviews. I am probably an outlier with this one. I liked her book, “Gone Tonight” a tad better. Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
July 27, 2024
i liked this one! Sarah Pekkanen is a fave author of mine and i know her books will bring me out of a slump and pull me in right away—and this was no exception!
i was invested immediately, the short chapters and murder mystery had me hooked. throughout the first half, i was getting major THE PUSH or EVERYONE HERE IS LYING vibes. if you like those books, you’ll enjoy this one! i really liked how she made you question every character and who was really telling the truth. also i always find it fascinating when there’s a naughty/unique child in a thriller. it gets juicy!
domestic thrillers >>>>> so good
the ending is what lost me a bit? not sure how i pictured it ending but i felt like it was a bit random to me or i wanted something different, it’s hard to explain. i knew we were getting a ton of red herrings and that didn’t bother me but when the twist was revealed it didn’t give an “OMG” reaction. also the love story at the end felt quite random and i’m not sure what it did for the plot.
i think i favor some of her other work more than this but i still enjoyed the read :) thanks to St Martins Press for the gifted early copy!
i was invested immediately, the short chapters and murder mystery had me hooked. throughout the first half, i was getting major THE PUSH or EVERYONE HERE IS LYING vibes. if you like those books, you’ll enjoy this one! i really liked how she made you question every character and who was really telling the truth. also i always find it fascinating when there’s a naughty/unique child in a thriller. it gets juicy!
domestic thrillers >>>>> so good
the ending is what lost me a bit? not sure how i pictured it ending but i felt like it was a bit random to me or i wanted something different, it’s hard to explain. i knew we were getting a ton of red herrings and that didn’t bother me but when the twist was revealed it didn’t give an “OMG” reaction. also the love story at the end felt quite random and i’m not sure what it did for the plot.
i think i favor some of her other work more than this but i still enjoyed the read :) thanks to St Martins Press for the gifted early copy!
August 8, 2024
4.5 stars
Once again Sarah Pekkanen delivers a solid thriller. Nine year old Rose Barclay witnessed the possible murder of her nanny. She lost her ability to speak after the traumatic experience. Her parents are in the middle of a bitter divorce and Stella Hudson is Rose’s court appointed attorney. Stella will spend time with the Barclays at their mansion in order to determine what is in the best interest of the child. She will have to dig deep to uncover the truth and in doing so will stir up memories of her own childhood.
The story hooked me right away. It’s like a 2 for 1 mystery as you want to know what happened to the nanny and also the circumstances of the death of Stella’s mother. Definitely enough stuff going on to hold my interest. In terms of shock value, some things are predictable but for other parts I didn’t have a strong sense of where the road was leading and needed the author to do the big reveal. Reasonably satisfied with the ending.
A good pick if you love this genre.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an advance reader’s copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
Once again Sarah Pekkanen delivers a solid thriller. Nine year old Rose Barclay witnessed the possible murder of her nanny. She lost her ability to speak after the traumatic experience. Her parents are in the middle of a bitter divorce and Stella Hudson is Rose’s court appointed attorney. Stella will spend time with the Barclays at their mansion in order to determine what is in the best interest of the child. She will have to dig deep to uncover the truth and in doing so will stir up memories of her own childhood.
The story hooked me right away. It’s like a 2 for 1 mystery as you want to know what happened to the nanny and also the circumstances of the death of Stella’s mother. Definitely enough stuff going on to hold my interest. In terms of shock value, some things are predictable but for other parts I didn’t have a strong sense of where the road was leading and needed the author to do the big reveal. Reasonably satisfied with the ending.
A good pick if you love this genre.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an advance reader’s copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
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