The Dream Home is a speedy read with a satisfying ending. Think Lifetime movie, which is always a compliment coming from me! There is some repetition in the middle that slows the story down, but it's worth it to get to the strong last third of the book. Theo Baxter does a good job adding in some surprises and spends time building out characters so they have a voice and are more than just plot devices. No spoilers here, but you'll know it when you get there :) Ashlyn's relationship with her sister was a personal fave.

Thank you to Inkubator Books and NetGalley for the gifted e-arc to read and review!

*The Dream Home* is a spine-chilling psychological thriller that keeps readers on edge with its intricate plotting and unsettling revelations. Authored by the bestselling writer of *The Stepfather* and *The Scorned Wife*, this novel delivers a gripping tale of deception, paranoia, and dark secrets lurking beneath a facade of perfection.

The story revolves around Ashlyn, who believes her life has reached its zenith with the purchase of a stunning new home, designed by her talented architect husband, Mason. The house is everything she had ever dreamed of, embodying the perfect life she always imagined. However, this ideal world is soon disrupted by a series of troubling events that unravel Ashlyn's sense of security.

The narrative takes a dark turn when a number of women who resemble Ashlyn and her sister, Karina, go missing. Ashlyn's concern intensifies as she becomes convinced that a mysterious van is following her during her trips to the city. Her husband Mason, however, dismisses her fears as mere coincidences, suggesting that she is overreacting. This dismissal strains their relationship further, especially when Karina herself disappears, heightening Ashlyn’s alarm.

As Ashlyn grapples with the disappearance of her sister and her growing suspicion about Mason’s behavior—particularly his increasing time spent in the basement—she begins to suspect that he may be connected to the abductions. The tension escalates as Ashlyn’s search for the truth leads her to uncover horrifying and shocking truths that threaten to shatter her world entirely.

The novel excels in creating a palpable atmosphere of suspense and dread. The juxtaposition of the seemingly perfect life with the sinister undercurrents is expertly crafted, drawing readers into Ashlyn’s growing paranoia and fear. The author’s skillful use of misdirection and psychological tension ensures that the twists and turns are both surprising and satisfying.

Ashlyn is a well-drawn protagonist, her vulnerability and determination adding depth to her character. The strained relationship with Mason is portrayed with nuance, capturing the complexities of trust and doubt. Mason’s secretive behavior and the enigmatic nature of his work in the basement provide a compelling mystery that drives the narrative forward.

The pacing of *The Dream Home* is relentless, with each chapter adding layers of intrigue and suspense. The climactic revelations are both shocking and chilling, offering a resolution that is as unexpected as it is unsettling. The novel’s exploration of themes such as trust, deception, and the fragility of appearances makes it a thought-provoking read.

Overall, *The Dream Home* is a masterful psychological thriller that will captivate fans of the genre. With its well-crafted plot, complex characters, and a chillingly believable portrayal of paranoia and deceit, this book is a must-read for those who enjoy suspenseful and thought-provoking fiction.

A creepy and tense thriller that keeps you guessing, full of shocking twists and turns. A great read!

“The Dream Home” by Theo Baxter is a mystery/thriller. I have really mixed feelings about this book. I found both Ashlyn and Mason to not be very likable (or trustworthy) characters. As the story unfolded, it became obvious that Mason had something to hide and his behavior seemed to be so controlling … and I felt very let down that even at the end, it was never quite rationalized (beyond a throw away few lines). At the 80% mark, the serial killer is unveiled and I felt very let down … it’s also where things picked up so quickly that it was like the down part of the roller coaster - you’re picking up speed and going into the turns so quickly that you cannot figure out which end is up … and then the story came to a sudden stop. So, for me, decent book until that part. I’ve read a previous book by this author - I think the book ideas are great, but there’s just something that doesn’t quite work for me (sadly).

Ashlyns architect husband Mason has designed a beautiful dream home for them both. a large luxurious house in it's own grounds. Maybe a little remote, but Mason and Ashlyn have their own cars. Both have home offices in the house too, so there is little need to go anywhere, unless Ashlyn wants to visit her family, and Ashlyn cannot wait to move in and settle into happy married life.
Ashlyn hears on the news that several women have gone missing, worryingly they all have a similar appearance to Ashlyn and her sister, Karina, same eye and hair colour. Mason reassures Ashlyn she is quite safe in her home, but when Ashlyn does go out, she has the feeling she is being followed. Then her sister disappears.
As the search for her sister goes on, Ashlyns relationship with Mason seems to deteriorate. He does not seem to care about Karinas disappearance, and spends more time either at work or in his games room at home. Ashlyn wonders if he is avoiding her deliberately and even begins to think he could be involved in her sisters disappearance.
This is an addictive thriller, I read it in one sitting. I had to keep turning the pages to find out what happened next, and I did not guess the ending.

Ashlyn has just moved into her dream home with her dream husband, Mason. Their lives were perfect before, but it seems their marriage has taken a turn. Mason is spending all of his time in the basement, utilising his "man cave" and the arguments are adding up. What is causing Mason to act this way? What is he hiding?

It all ramps up when, following a holiday, the couple returns to find their home trashed - Mason confronting the intruder and ending up injured. While all of this is happening, women are going missing - woman who all look like Ashlyn. Does her husband have something to do with it? why won't he unlock the door to his man cave and why do the wall appear different to how they were on the plans?

The Dream Home started well, with just the slightest of uncomfortableness about Mason. Enough to be suspicious of him. Once the book starting picking up, I felt that it became slightly rushed - we went from 0 to hero in a very short period of time which made the book seem slightly disjointed and hurried. I loved the character of Ashlyn and I enjoyed the different family dynamics which added to the various suspicions I had throughout. I thought the ending was satisfying but did end slightly suddenly - I was hoping for an epilogue or "six months later" situation. Overall an enjoyable read.

The prologue sucked me in.
Great writing from this talented author with well written characters.
Creepy, dark and edge of your seat storyline with a big twists.
My thanks to netgalley and the publisher for my copy.

Thank you to Netgallery and the publisher for this ARC. The publication date is the 25th August. This book was an addictive, engaging plot that drew me from the prologue with many twists and turns throughout!

I liked the character Ashlyn as I wonder what works happen next for her! The ending was unexpected, thrilling and a complete gasp out loud moment!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars!

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Initially the MC and her husband were both insufferable. Everything they did or said pissed me off. I thought it was very clear what was going on and found myself screaming at Ashlyn all throughout reading it. However, there are shocking twists and turns found in this story. There is major character development and the ending left me smiling. I expected to just get a quick read in, and instead I found a new author to obsess over!