Member Reviews

Unfortunately, this book moves a bit too slow for me. I found it easy to put down, and I didnt care for the characters and what happened to them.

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This was a bit of a bizarre read, and not what I expected at all after reading the synopsis. When Hannah saves the life of Alina's young daughter, Alina will do anything to repay the debt. Hannah knows what she wants but doesn't know how far Alina will go. As the story progresses, we learn more about both the backgrounds and the motivations of the 2 primary characters.

While the book moved at a fast pace, it missed a bit of the characterization that I think would have made the story stronger. While there were some big twists, one reason they felt so unexpected is because the reader didn't have enough background information to see them coming. There were a couple revelations that gave me a good glimpse into the psyche of these characters, but I wish there had been more, and earlier. I did like the end of the book because what happened was a surprise, but by then I had enough background to make it all make sense. I thought some of the loose ends might have been tied up a little too neatly, but it worked for the book.

Overall, this was a unique story that went a completely different way than expected, but I would have enjoyed it more if I connected with any of the primary characters. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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This book somehow did not work out for me. The worlds of two women collided, when the first one saved the daughter of the second at an art exhibition gone wrong. For this good act, she will be rewarded. Whatever she wants is hers. So what if she wants someone out of her life for good?

The description of the book had me hooked, so why did I not like the final product? I felt like you never really got into the head of the two main characters. You only had Hannah going on and on about that person threatening her, but never explaining why or who they are, to keep the mystery afloat, which just got annoying at some point and Alina doing the same about her past and the threat to her family. It got really repetitive at some point and knowing so little about the two of them did not get me involved into the story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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An intriguing story with some interesting twists. This was fast-paced and tense. I wish, however, there had been a lot more development, with backstories, characters, and plot points.

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The Dream Job by J.M. Hewitt presents an intriguing premise that blends career ambition with unexpected twists, creating a story that is as thought-provoking as it is unpredictable. The novel follows the journey of a character whose pursuit of what seems like the perfect job quickly takes a darker, more complicated turn. With its unique plot and surprising developments, *The Dream Job* certainly offers a fresh take on the "dream job" trope, but it may leave some readers wishing for a bit more depth and background to fully immerse them in the narrative.

At the heart of the story is a character who is eager to land their dream job—an opportunity that promises not only professional success but also personal fulfillment. However, as the plot progresses, the story takes a sharp turn, revealing that the job is not everything it seems. Without giving away too much, the twists in the story add layers of complexity to the narrative, forcing both the protagonist and the reader to reevaluate what has been presented as an ideal opportunity. The surprises are well-executed and certainly provide moments of suspense, making for an engaging read in the second half of the book.

However, while the twists are certainly effective, *The Dream Job* sometimes lacks the depth needed to fully invest readers in its characters and plot. There are moments where the story feels a bit rushed, and the lack of detailed background or context leaves the narrative feeling somewhat underdeveloped. The protagonist’s motivations, for example, could have been explored more thoroughly, giving readers a clearer sense of why they are so drawn to this seemingly perfect job, and what drives them to overlook red flags. Similarly, the setting and supporting characters could have benefited from more fleshing out to create a fuller, more immersive world.

J.M. Hewitt’s writing is clear and concise, with a smooth narrative flow that carries the story forward. The pacing, particularly in the beginning, might feel a bit too brisk for some readers, and the lack of buildup or deeper exploration of key elements may leave them feeling somewhat disconnected from the story. While the twists certainly add excitement, the emotional resonance and character development could have been stronger to make the payoff feel more earned.

Despite these areas where the story could have benefitted from a little more development, *The Dream Job* remains an enjoyable, quick read for those who enjoy thrillers with surprising turns. The central concept is fresh, and Hewitt’s ability to surprise the reader with unexpected plot developments ensures that the book is never predictable.

In conclusion, *The Dream Job* is a solid, twisty read that offers an interesting take on the idea of career success and ambition. While the surprises and the core premise are engaging, the story could have benefitted from a bit more depth and background to make the characters and their journey truly come alive. For readers looking for a quick, suspenseful story with a unique twist, this novel delivers—though it may leave some craving a bit more substance.

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When Hannah saves the life of a child the child’s mother, Alina, grants Hannah the promise that she can provide her whatever she desires. Luckily for Hannah, Alina is a wealthy woman with high social status. What will Hannah ask for and will Alina be able to give it to her?

I found the concept of this one really intriguing and having previously read another book by this author, The Life She Wants, and enjoying it, I was keen to read this one. Sadly this didn’t really work for me as a thriller and I found I had to keep stopping and starting it as I struggled to connect to the story and the characters. The main issue was the lack of suspense and that the story never really picked up. It was also quite unbelievable at times. I think with a bit of tweaking this could be a really good story as the premise is definitely there. Even though this one wasn’t really for me, I would read another book by this author as I know from my past experience that she can write a great thriller. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.

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I’m still waiting for the tension to hit as this book with a very interesting premise fell rather flat.

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This was such a gripping read, I felt very immersed in this book and this immersion only went up through the book especially when the tension and suspense was amped up.

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When a stranger saves her young daughter Sophia from a horrendous accident in an art Gallery her mother Alina a very wealthy woman vows to repay the strangers good deed

Hannah the stranger involved does not want Alinas money she instead wants something more and that is where the story really gets going

Told by the two women the story delves into the backgrounds of their lives and reveals something very unexpected

Thank you Netgalley for the Arc and what was a great read

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Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me to read this. This one was slow for me and I had a hard time following the characters. I love the plot like though and enjoyed reading some of it n

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The Dream Job is a thrilling exploration of ambition and the dark side of gratitude. 🌌 Hannah Baker’s life takes a dramatic turn when her good deed saves nine-year-old Sofia, leading her mother, Alina, to pledge her unwavering support. With Alina's wealth and influence at her disposal, Hannah sees a golden opportunity to advance her career in the art world, particularly at the prestigious Saatchi gallery. 🎨

But as Hannah navigates her newfound relationship with Alina, it becomes clear that her desires go beyond mere career aspirations. The tension builds as Hannah wrestles with her ambitions and the lengths she’s willing to go to achieve them. Will Alina be able to fulfill Hannah's wishes? And what happens when those wishes become dangerously obsessive? 🔍

J.M. Hewitt masterfully crafts a psychological thriller filled with suspense and moral dilemmas, making it a captivating read for fans of gripping narratives. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a dark twist on ambition and the complexities of human relationships! 📚✨

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Hannah Barker saved the life of nine-year-old Sofia Arpel in a freak accident at the museum. In return, Sofia's mother, Alina, decided to play the role of a fairy godmother to grant Hannah a wish. Any wish. Alina has all the riches and power one could ever dream of, and anything Hannah desire can be granted without Alina having ever lifting much of her fingers.

Hannah has been longing for a position at the Momotaro Gallery, something she has been pursuing without much success. However, more dire than that, she has another wish that needs to be executed immediately. It was this wish that spiralled into a never-ending cat-and-mouse chase and entwined the lives of Hannah and Alina together... forever.

It took me a while to complete this book. The storyline was disjointed and difficult to follow at times. There was little character development for Hannah and Alina. Though I was very much intrigued by Hannah and Alina's thoughts and actions, it sometimes lacked common sense, making their behaviour questionable. The plot also lacked suspense and remained flat throughout. The ending was disappointing and didn't provide a satisfying conclusion. Despite considering giving up midway, I finished the book hoping for a surprise that did not materialise.

Thanks to NetGallery for sharing an advance digital copy of the book with me in exchsnge for an honest review.

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DNF. This book never picked up for me. Completely lacked any suspense or thrill. Realllyyyy dragged on. It also seem poorly edited, like perhaps this was still an early draft? Not sure.

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Alina, a wealthy and powerful woman is with her young daughter Sophia at an art exhibition when one of the art exhibits comes crashing down around Sophia. Alina is grateful that a young woman called Hannah is on hand to help save Sophia from injury and offers Hannah help with anything she wants. Hannah asks Alina for help to remove a toxic person from her life, 'no questions asked' and Alina agrees to assist. Alina is slowly drawn into Hannah's life and the mystery of the toxic person who is upsetting her existence.

I must confess, I struggled with this book. The concept of the story seemed interesting and solid but I found the story very slow to progress. I normally enjoy a slow burn but there wasn't a lot going on to keep me interested and invested in what was going to happen next. I found it difficult to understand either of the 2 lead characters who weren't particularly likeable and I struggled to understand their behaviour While there was an interesting twist towards the end of the story, it wasn't developed or revealed in a particularly exciting or shocking way

Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read this eARC

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Interesting idea and some good characters but the writing took me a while to settle to,not a bad story by any means but maybe needs some tightening up of various storylines and plot,I would read more from this author

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Wow. Loved this book. Having read some of Hewitt's previous books I knew straight away I would enjoy the style. Loved it.

Thank you for the opportunity to review

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This was so intriguing! I read it in 24 hours. I had a feeling Hannah was behind the whole thing but it still kept me gripped and I was dying to find out why and what her motives were. Alinas character was also fascinating

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An enjoyable first read from J.M.Hewitt
Told from a dual narrative POV you follow Hannah and Alina as their lives are brought together following an unexpected accident at an art gallery event.
I enjoyed the strong character profiles in this one. It seems a slow burn domestic thriller, with some complex human behaviours appearing in the second part of the book.
I liked that there was an unlikeable character in there, and enjoyed learning about their twisted past and behaviours!
Some subtle twists which whilst may not have been jaw-dropping, were a good addition.

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A good concept, I think, it had potential. But the book kind of felt all over the place, like it was a very very very early draft. lots of plot points abandoned and never cleared up or revisited. Both POV characters unrelatable.

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2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars

A terrible event occurs, and young Sophia’s life is saved by a woman named Hannah who happened to be at the scene at the time. Sophia’s mother Alina cannot thank Hannah enough and tells her that she can ask for anything she wishes for, and Alina will provide it. As a very wealthy woman Alina expects Hannah to ask for money, and lots of it. Much to her surprise Hannah has other ideas.

Hannah has always dreamed of working in the Momotaro Gallery and feels that Alina has the contacts that may be the key to this dream coming true, but she also has a second request and wants Alina to help her in removing a toxic person from her life, will Alina agree?

The story takes quite a while to get off the ground and I found myself completely unable to identify with these two main characters, due to this I found it hard to invest myself in the book. There was not a lot of excitement or suspense that captured my attention, and I found myself turning the pages but not really caring about the resolution and if Hannah would have her requests fulfilled. I am not going to say anymore as we are all different and others may have an entirely different perspective and enjoyment of the book than I experienced. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 starts

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.

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