Next to Heaven by James Frey offers a captivating dive into the world of wealth, secrets, and the dark undercurrents of privilege. Set in New Bethlehem, Connecticut, a town that exudes perfection from its pristine lawns to its million-dollar homes, the novel explores the lives of its affluent residents, particularly Devon and Belle, two women who seemingly have it all but crave something more. Their search for excitement leads them to organize a party that attracts the town’s elite—each one hiding their own vices and flaws.

The story unfolds as a night of betrayal turns deadly, with a murder that threatens to unravel the tightly woven fabric of New Bethlehem’s high society. The character-driven plot focuses on Devon and Belle, whose wealth and status disguise their deeper desires and vulnerabilities. Their actions, intertwined with those of other influential characters in the story, set off a chain of events that highlight the darker side of affluence and power.

Frey’s writing captures the excesses and hidden struggles of his characters, making for an engaging read that keeps you turning pages. The twists and character complexities add to the intrigue, and the narrative shines a light on the emptiness that can accompany such privilege. This book is a compelling look at the lengths some will go to escape the suffocating grip of their perfect lives.

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A riveting read about a town in America with a darker side. I loved this book, full of lies & secrets, twists & turns , just my cup of tea. I loved the characters, good & bad, I loved the secrets. Brilliant ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Completely in tune with modern America where nothing seems to be ever enough. From the pace of the story to the intriguing revelations of the characters this is the utmost contemporary conception of what it is to be unsatisfied in this present age. Riveting

Next to Heaven is a murder mystery set in the wealthy American suburb of New Bethlehem, where all isn’t quite what it seems.

One of the local couples hosts a party at their house, and things in the town take a dark turn after that, with secrets and tragedies coming to light.

I enjoyed how the author brought the characters to life through their backstories. Some of the characters were very unpleasant and self-involved. I felt the book lacked in the pace and depth that I had thought it would have. This was the first book I’d read by the author, but it wasn’t what I’d expected, although there were some unexpected twists.

With thanks to NetGalley and Swift Press for the ARC.

In "Next to Heaven," James Frey presents a gripping narrative set in the seemingly idyllic town of New Bethlehem, Connecticut, where the lives of the wealthy are anything but perfect.

The story revolves around two friends, Devon and Belle, who, despite their beauty and status, yearn for excitement beyond their luxurious existence. Their solution is a lavish swingers party that brings together the town's elite, including a disgraced ex-NFL player and a manipulative Wall Street mogul. However, the night spirals into chaos when betrayal leads to murder, exposing the dark underbelly of privilege and excess.
The protagonists' quest for meaning amidst superficiality shapes their journey. Devon and Belle evolve as they grapple with the repercussions of their actions while supporting characters, each embodying different aspects of wealth and ambition, enriching the narrative. The interplay between these flawed individuals highlights themes of morality and human connection in a deceptive world.

Frey skillfully explores themes of wealth, betrayal, and the pursuit of authenticity. The novel resonates with contemporary issues like the hollowness of consumerism and the moral decay hidden beneath affluence, serving as a critique of how wealth can warp relationships and self-identity.

Frey's sharp, provocative writing style is marked by a fast-paced narrative reflecting the chaotic lives of his characters. His effective use of dialogue conveys tension and reveals motivations. The multi-perspective structure initially feels disjointed but ultimately enriches the story as threads intertwine toward the climax.

Personally, "Next to Heaven" captivates with its blend of dark humor and social commentary. While some might find the characters unlikable, their flaws make them relatable representations of societal excess. The emotional impact lies in recognizing universal struggles within these extravagant lives.

In the context of satirical explorations of wealth and privilege, Frey's work aligns with others like "The Great Gatsby," but with a modern twist that incorporates elements from contemporary media like "The White Lotus."The book stands out due to its bold storytelling and ability to provoke thought about personal values in an increasingly materialistic world.

Overall, "Next to Heaven" is special for its unflinching portrayal of the darker sides of affluence and friendship. While it may not cater to everyone's taste due to its chaotic nature and morally ambiguous characters, it effectively invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with wealth and desire in today's society.

A suburban paradise in Connecticut is the epitome of the American dream - but not without its darker underbelly!

And that is exactly what comes to the forefront when one "dream couple" decide to throw a party that brings the entire facade crashing down on its inhabitants.

Dark, disturbing and funny, this is an interesting take on the perversities of affluent modern America. It gets 3.5 stars.

I have has never heard of this author until after I read this so I didn't know his background went in blind. I learnt his back story after reading, I can see why the book worked so well and I felt so real now.

This book for me was a mix of wit, mystery and dark undertone it flows and reads easy but never once felt lazy or brain fluffy it was insightful observant and smart it never once was a chore to read. I read it over a day I couldn't put tot down.

I loved the short chapters each told from a different characters POV in the third person. There was vast cast of characters each with a unique voice and story they interlinked perfectly to tell what was complex plot that was told with real style. There was a sense of pending tension though out, the characters developing as the plot does...the writing was truly a class act.

I got big white lotus, little big lies, Kevin Kwan and Emma Rosenblum vibes from this which I loved.

Really really enjoyed this one, great from start to finish I'd say it make perfect pool side reading.

Crying out to be dated into Netflix series

A strong 4.5 Stars