The Perfect Parents: A BRAND NEW gripping psychological thriller with a SHOCKING twist from J A Baker for 2024

3.9 3.9 out of 5 stars | 2,095 ratings

Price: 1.99

Last update: 07-05-2024


About this item

The brand new gripping psychological thriller from bestselling author J.A. Baker

Jackson and Lydia Hemsworth are pillars of the community, feted for having the perfect marriage and three wonderful children – Florence, Jessica and Ezra.

But appearances can be deceptive.

Because behind closed doors Jackson Hemsworth rules his family with cruelty and control. His marriage is a sham; his children for years have cowed in fear.

Until the day that Jackson and Lydia throw themselves off Newport Bridge in a joint suicide pact – the final cruel blow by Jackson to control his wife and torture his adult children.

As the Hemsworth siblings return to their family home, they must try to make sense of their parents’ last act. But there are many dark secrets waiting to be unearthed at Armett House.

Like, why are the townsfolk so suddenly hostile towards them? And who are the strangers who arrive at Armett House unannounced? And why has their mother’s body still not been found?

In the aftermath of their parents’ death, it becomes clear that something terrible is about to be exposed about the Hemsworths’ perfect parents.

A secret they may all wish had stayed hidden…

What people are saying about J.A.Baker

"Engaging characters, a chilling tale - Baker at her best!" Bestselling author Valerie Keogh.

"A dark and twisting thrill ride that asks the question: how well do you really know your parents? It kept me hooked until the final page!" Bestselling author M.A. Hunter.

"A dark and twisty thriller that keep you guessing at the truth, The Perfect Parents is an addictive read!" Bestselling author Alison Stockham.

"This captivating pacy thriller sucks you in from the first page and spits you out at the last! I thought I’d worked it out, but no… the twists kept coming and the final reveal is a heartbreaker ????" Bestselling author Ruby Speechley

"Intensely compelling, with so many twists I didn't see coming!' Bestselling author, Alex Stone


Top reviews from the United States

Amazon CustomerJoey
5.0 out of 5 stars A truly riveting book.
Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2024
The Perfect Parents is the story of the Hemsworth family, whose parents seem to have drown themselves in the river. Specifically it is the story of the three children who have to deal with the mess that is left behind, and all of the horrible things that are revealed. That said, this is a book with humor and real heart. I highly recommend it.
Heather Frantz
4.0 out of 5 stars confused on a twist….
Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2024
Don’t read this unless you don’t mind a spoiler…….

I’ll use initials to help be less “spoilery”

I’m confused by a “reveal” that “A’s mom” is also “Fs mom” but somehow then it’s says how “J (girl) and E are A’s half siblings and share dna” unless we are to read between the lines and assume that “J” (man) fathered “A” as well but it goes unsaid since there’s no mention of “A’s” dad by name. Otherwise I enjoyed this book but the way that section was written has me confused. As written, there shouldn’t be dna shared by “E”/“J”(girl) with “A”…..please clarify?
Kindle Customer
3.0 out of 5 stars Perfect parents
Reviewed in the United States on May 6, 2024
It was hard to understand from the beginning. As we got to the end it improved. Over all I enjoyed the book.
melissa barker
5.0 out of 5 stars Couldn't put it down!
Reviewed in the United States on May 4, 2024
Was not able to put this down until I finished the whole book. The author wrote an amazing read. Well be following this author
Jody @ I'm Into Books
4.0 out of 5 stars Love Her Books
Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2024
In “The Perfect Parents,” author J.A. Baker creates an engaging family mystery that explores the hidden shadows under the façade of the perfect Hemsworth family. This thrilling tale introduces readers to a rollercoaster ride of emotions as they discover the truth about the tragic joint suicide of Hemsworth parents and the secrets that the children must deal with.

Lydia Hemsworth and Jackson are esteemed members of their society, looked up to because of their perfect marriage and perfectly behaved kids. But as the story progresses, it is revealed that appearances are deceiving. Jackson’s cruel and controlling self pits a long shadow over their perfect life, leaving their children scared and afraid.

Jackson and Lydia’s shocking suicide pact is the ultimate act of manipulation and control. This incident triggers Florence, Jessica, Ezra, and Hemsworth’s siblings to return to their family house and face the consequences of their parent’s deeds. As they struggle to deal with their grieving and try to figure out the truth about their parents’ last deed, they must deal with a hostile community and unexpected visitors at Armett House.

The strong point of this novel is that Baker can create a true feeling of suspense and intrigue. The pacing is masterfully created, so readers are on the edge of their seats as they are plunged into the Hemsworths’ dark history. Baker intertwines several storylines, unveiling the family’s secrets bit by bit without uncovering the mystery.

The characters in “The Perfect Parents” are adequately developed and relatable because each has flaws and complications. The Hemsworth siblings give an incredibly captivating performance as they attempt to understand their shortcomings while trying to accept their parents’ actions. Their self-discovery and healing journey makes their narrative more layered and profound.

One minor criticism of the book is that some plot twists may seem a little predictable to readers of mystery novels. However, this minor flaw is independent of the strength of the storytelling and the well-developed characters.

In conclusion, “The Perfect Parents” is a thrilling and stimulating read that keeps its readers hooked until the very last page. Baker has created a spine-chilling family mystery that tackles the intricacies of human nature and the havoc that mystery and secrets can wreak. Psychological thrillers and domestic drama fans will enjoy adding this book to their reading lists.

Thank you to Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
Karen P. Lynd
5.0 out of 5 stars page turner
Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2024
So many twists and turns! Some I saw coming but most I did not. This was definitely a good read.
LoveAmazonShopping
3.0 out of 5 stars way too much narrative!!
Reviewed in the United States on May 6, 2024
Starts out where you have the feeling it is going to be great....then the ramblings begin over and over again. Just dragged on for me however I kept reading because I wanted to know the final wrapup. Would really not suggest this book to anyone as there are so many other great reads out there.
Dana Cooksey
5.0 out of 5 stars Addictive
Reviewed in the United States on April 29, 2024
This book caught me by surprise. I was unable to put it down. With twists and turns at every corner, I found myself feeling as though I was there in the moment. Living each emotion.

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