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The Widow's Boyfriend
An unputdownable psychological thriller with a breathtaking twist.
Verity’s widowed mother has a new boyfriend. But is he really all he seems?
Verity finds out her mother is secretly dating a man she met online. After five long years of widowhood, Eleanor is finally happy — and back to her old self.
But Verity’s suspicions are aroused when she meets the charming, seemingly perfect Roger Scott-Jefferies. Something about him doesn’t ring true.
Verity starts asking questions about her mother’s new man. And she doesn’t like the answers. At the same time, strange things start happening.
A cryptic postcard turns up, which her mother refuses to explain. Then a dead bird is left on the doorstep. Surveillance photos of Eleanor, Verity, and her brother are delivered to the house.
As Verity peels back the layers of her mother’s past, she realizes that Eleanor has been keeping dangerous secrets.
And someone is determined to keep those secrets hidden.
Verity is about to find out that some truths are best left buried.
Verity’s widowed mother has a new boyfriend. But is he really all he seems?
Verity finds out her mother is secretly dating a man she met online. After five long years of widowhood, Eleanor is finally happy — and back to her old self.
But Verity’s suspicions are aroused when she meets the charming, seemingly perfect Roger Scott-Jefferies. Something about him doesn’t ring true.
Verity starts asking questions about her mother’s new man. And she doesn’t like the answers. At the same time, strange things start happening.
A cryptic postcard turns up, which her mother refuses to explain. Then a dead bird is left on the doorstep. Surveillance photos of Eleanor, Verity, and her brother are delivered to the house.
As Verity peels back the layers of her mother’s past, she realizes that Eleanor has been keeping dangerous secrets.
And someone is determined to keep those secrets hidden.
Verity is about to find out that some truths are best left buried.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 17, 2023
984 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
E.V. Seymour
19 books66 followersSee the author's blogspot at http://www.evseymour.co.uk
Aka Eve Isherwood
Aka Eve Isherwood
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 17, 2023
Verity lost her father five years ago and misses him greatly. Her mum Eleanor has now met a new man and Verity is straight away suspicious as her mother is quite wealthy, she is happy for her and hopes this man is genuine. But after meeting, him something does not ring true to her and she decides it will not hurt to do a little digging on this Roger Scott-Jefferies. Now things start off.
Verity then finds a postcard in the mail at her mothers house, addressed to an Eleanor but has a Polish surname, when Verity asks her mother about it she tells her it is a mistake that it was sent to her house. This is the beginning of a very intense and suspenceful story that again I read in one sitting. I loved all the characters both good and bad, they all had depth and were portrayed well, each contributing to making this a great book. The plot is well thought out and delivered, it keeps you guessing. A great thriller highly recommended, 4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions are my own.
Verity then finds a postcard in the mail at her mothers house, addressed to an Eleanor but has a Polish surname, when Verity asks her mother about it she tells her it is a mistake that it was sent to her house. This is the beginning of a very intense and suspenceful story that again I read in one sitting. I loved all the characters both good and bad, they all had depth and were portrayed well, each contributing to making this a great book. The plot is well thought out and delivered, it keeps you guessing. A great thriller highly recommended, 4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions are my own.
August 7, 2023
When Verity learns that her widowed mother is dating a younger man she is immediately concerned and suspicious. On meeting Roger Scott-Jefferies, she fears that her concerns are valid. There is something not quite right about her mother’s new boyfriend. Verity decides to do some investigating on her own and at the same time strange things begin to happen. An odd postcard, a dead bird on the doorstep, and an envelope full of pictures of her family arrive. She continues to delve into Roger’s background as well as her own mother’s past. Unfortunately, she may have unearthed some secrets that are better off left buried. This was an entertaining read, but lacked a lot of twists and turns of most thrillers I enjoy. Everything did come together in a satisfying ending that explained and connected everything. I gave this novel 3.5 stars.
August 19, 2023
Firstly, I had to chuckle when I began this book having just finished Daniel Hurst's "The Doctor's Widow", only to dive into yet another tale in which another widow has herself a new man by the name of Roger. And one who isn't all he seems. The similarities made me smile. But there, any similarities ended.
When Verity learns that her mother is seeing someone after five years of widowhood she is immediately concerned. Then she meets Roger and her fears are allayed...for a short time...until she does some digging. And it appears that Roger Scott-Jeffries isn't all he seems. OK, so her first impressions is that he is hot. Too hot to be her mother's new boyfriend. And then upon further digging, she uncovers a few inconsistencies. When she confronts her mother with them, she bats them away unconcerned. But Verity will not be swayed.
Then a few strange things begin to happen. An odd postcard addressed to someone else, a decapitated bird on the doorstep and then an envelope containing photos of her family arrive through the post-flap. Now things are beginning to feel threatening. What is Roger's game? And how long has he been stalking her family? Because some of these photos were taken before he came on the scene!
With her sister-in-law cheering her on, Verity stops at nothing to uncover the truth about her mother's boyfriend, despite the inevitable distance it puts between mother and daughter. But what she doesn't factor in is the inevitable Pandora's box she opens...and the long buried secrets that she unearths.
What then ensues is a series of events that leads Verity down a rabbit hole from which she can find no escape, putting both her life and her mother's in danger. The question then becomes more not what is Roger hiding than what secrets has Eleanor been keeping?
I really enjoyed this story, though admittedly I preferred the first half to the second. With Part Two, the story took on a whole different meaning as new secrets began to emerge making Verity question all she thought she knew about her mother. I loved Seymour's style. It was funny and witty, which I love thrown into a story, especially the internal dialogue. Lines like "Alex went quiet. Dido went ape-shit." just made me chuckle.
The plot is simple enough to start with. What it leads to is far more complex with tales of institutional abuse, murder and kidnap to name a few. The pace is steady throughout though with its snappy chapters and intricate threads weaving their way to a satisfying conclusion. I did feel it got a little off track and dragged a little in the second part but on the whole I was impressed by this author and I like her witty "internal dialogue" style. I will be sure to keep a look out for her in future.
I would like to thank #EVSeymour, #JoffeBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #TheWidowsBoyfriend in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
When Verity learns that her mother is seeing someone after five years of widowhood she is immediately concerned. Then she meets Roger and her fears are allayed...for a short time...until she does some digging. And it appears that Roger Scott-Jeffries isn't all he seems. OK, so her first impressions is that he is hot. Too hot to be her mother's new boyfriend. And then upon further digging, she uncovers a few inconsistencies. When she confronts her mother with them, she bats them away unconcerned. But Verity will not be swayed.
Then a few strange things begin to happen. An odd postcard addressed to someone else, a decapitated bird on the doorstep and then an envelope containing photos of her family arrive through the post-flap. Now things are beginning to feel threatening. What is Roger's game? And how long has he been stalking her family? Because some of these photos were taken before he came on the scene!
With her sister-in-law cheering her on, Verity stops at nothing to uncover the truth about her mother's boyfriend, despite the inevitable distance it puts between mother and daughter. But what she doesn't factor in is the inevitable Pandora's box she opens...and the long buried secrets that she unearths.
What then ensues is a series of events that leads Verity down a rabbit hole from which she can find no escape, putting both her life and her mother's in danger. The question then becomes more not what is Roger hiding than what secrets has Eleanor been keeping?
I really enjoyed this story, though admittedly I preferred the first half to the second. With Part Two, the story took on a whole different meaning as new secrets began to emerge making Verity question all she thought she knew about her mother. I loved Seymour's style. It was funny and witty, which I love thrown into a story, especially the internal dialogue. Lines like "Alex went quiet. Dido went ape-shit." just made me chuckle.
The plot is simple enough to start with. What it leads to is far more complex with tales of institutional abuse, murder and kidnap to name a few. The pace is steady throughout though with its snappy chapters and intricate threads weaving their way to a satisfying conclusion. I did feel it got a little off track and dragged a little in the second part but on the whole I was impressed by this author and I like her witty "internal dialogue" style. I will be sure to keep a look out for her in future.
I would like to thank #EVSeymour, #JoffeBooks and #ZoolooTours for an ARC of #TheWidowsBoyfriend in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
August 27, 2023
The Widow's Boyfriend by E.V Seymour.
Verity’s widowed mother thinks her new boyfriend is the perfect gentleman, handsome and distinguished. But Verity thinks he’s a lying conman. Can she prove it?
I really enjoyed this book. Twisty and gripping. Couldn't put it down. 5*.
Verity’s widowed mother thinks her new boyfriend is the perfect gentleman, handsome and distinguished. But Verity thinks he’s a lying conman. Can she prove it?
I really enjoyed this book. Twisty and gripping. Couldn't put it down. 5*.
September 6, 2023
The Widow's Boyfriend is definitely an interesting thriller. It wasn't at all what I was expecting, though. But that's what made it an enjoyable read.
The story follows Verity, a woman who discovers her widowed mother has a new boyfriend. At her sister-in-law's insistence, Verity decides to meet the man her mother is dating. While she's not exactly keen on him, she figures as long as her mom is happy, that's all that matters.
But when a few strange events trigger Verity's desire to look into the man, she discovers not only his secrets but her mother's as well.
What could the pair of them be hiding? You'll have to read it and find out.
I'm not really sure what I can say about this book without giving too much away. There's definitely a lot going on, with both Eleanor's secrets and Roger's secrets. But the two aren't exactly what they seem. The story starts out one way, but then it devolves into something a bit different, although not so different that it ruins anything. In fact, I found it a bit of a roller coaster once things started to fall into place. It's quite a story, I can tell you that.
I can't say too much more, because I don't want to spoil anything for potential readers, but the plot is engaging, the characters are well-written and likeable (or unlikeable in some cases), and it's easy to get lost in the mystery of what's really going on.
If you're looking for something a bit different when it comes to psychological thrillers, give The Widow's Boyfriend a go.
4 stars!
The story follows Verity, a woman who discovers her widowed mother has a new boyfriend. At her sister-in-law's insistence, Verity decides to meet the man her mother is dating. While she's not exactly keen on him, she figures as long as her mom is happy, that's all that matters.
But when a few strange events trigger Verity's desire to look into the man, she discovers not only his secrets but her mother's as well.
What could the pair of them be hiding? You'll have to read it and find out.
I'm not really sure what I can say about this book without giving too much away. There's definitely a lot going on, with both Eleanor's secrets and Roger's secrets. But the two aren't exactly what they seem. The story starts out one way, but then it devolves into something a bit different, although not so different that it ruins anything. In fact, I found it a bit of a roller coaster once things started to fall into place. It's quite a story, I can tell you that.
I can't say too much more, because I don't want to spoil anything for potential readers, but the plot is engaging, the characters are well-written and likeable (or unlikeable in some cases), and it's easy to get lost in the mystery of what's really going on.
If you're looking for something a bit different when it comes to psychological thrillers, give The Widow's Boyfriend a go.
4 stars!
August 30, 2023
The Widow's Boyfriend by E.V. Seymour
Shocking Psychological Thrillers Book 2
Verity's widowed mother has met a man on a dating site; she thinks her new boyfriend is the perfect gentleman, handsome and distinguished.
Verity, at first, is happy for her mother, but after a while, nagging doubt rears its head, and she begins to think he's after her money and her expensive Cirencester home. Verity decides to check things out.
When a dead bird is left on her mother's doorstep and, surveillance photos of Eleanor, Verity, and her brother are delivered to the house.
Verity begins to dig deeper, but what she finds might destroy everything she's ever known.
After reading the first book in this series, My Daughter's Secrets, I was excited to be invited to read The Widow's Boyfriend. E V Seymour's writing has a way of drawing you in, and then boom, the twists and turns begin.
This story covers topics such as abduction, extortion, child abuse and murder.
This book is a thrilling combination of domestic suspense and intense tension, with a shocking final twist.
I want to thank publishers Joffe Books psychological thriller and crime, author E.V.Seymour and Zooloos Book Tours for the invite to read and review and a spot on the tour.
Shocking Psychological Thrillers Book 2
Verity's widowed mother has met a man on a dating site; she thinks her new boyfriend is the perfect gentleman, handsome and distinguished.
Verity, at first, is happy for her mother, but after a while, nagging doubt rears its head, and she begins to think he's after her money and her expensive Cirencester home. Verity decides to check things out.
When a dead bird is left on her mother's doorstep and, surveillance photos of Eleanor, Verity, and her brother are delivered to the house.
Verity begins to dig deeper, but what she finds might destroy everything she's ever known.
After reading the first book in this series, My Daughter's Secrets, I was excited to be invited to read The Widow's Boyfriend. E V Seymour's writing has a way of drawing you in, and then boom, the twists and turns begin.
This story covers topics such as abduction, extortion, child abuse and murder.
This book is a thrilling combination of domestic suspense and intense tension, with a shocking final twist.
I want to thank publishers Joffe Books psychological thriller and crime, author E.V.Seymour and Zooloos Book Tours for the invite to read and review and a spot on the tour.
September 1, 2023
The Widow’s Boyfriend will pull you in right from the first page and keep you hooked right through the book until the very last page. When Verity finds out her mother has a boyfriend she is concerned that he may not be as perfect as her mother thinks he is. On top of that strange things start to happen and it appears that her mother is hiding some secrets…
I absolutely loved the plot which has so many twists and turns and it kept me gripped throughout. Some parts of the story literally have you on the edge of your seat and holding your breath. You just didn’t know what was going to happen next which kept me turning the pages to find out, as more revelations were revealed. The characters are very strong characters and some of them are likeable but some you just hate. I liked the writing style as it was quite atmospheric and creepy at times.
The Widow’s Boyfriend has everything and is a real psychological thriller and a totally gripping page turner. The storyline is full of twists and turns with a great plot and plenty of revelations and you can’t put it down until you reach the last page. It is a great read and I recommend it highly.
I absolutely loved the plot which has so many twists and turns and it kept me gripped throughout. Some parts of the story literally have you on the edge of your seat and holding your breath. You just didn’t know what was going to happen next which kept me turning the pages to find out, as more revelations were revealed. The characters are very strong characters and some of them are likeable but some you just hate. I liked the writing style as it was quite atmospheric and creepy at times.
The Widow’s Boyfriend has everything and is a real psychological thriller and a totally gripping page turner. The storyline is full of twists and turns with a great plot and plenty of revelations and you can’t put it down until you reach the last page. It is a great read and I recommend it highly.
September 2, 2023
Once again, this is a new author to me but another brilliant twisty (and creepy) psychological thriller.
Verity's mum has been widowed for some time but has recently started dating a man that she met online.
Eleanor thinks he's great, but Verity really isn't sure about him and when strange things start to happen, she decides that she must get to the bottom of things.
I really liked Verity. I think I'd be just the same, not trusting someone that my mum met online. Eleanor seems quite naive about these things, but again, I totally get that she could be swept up in everythi ggiven he seems so nice and normal.
The writing style was really atmospheric at times and I found myself holding my breath and on edge. This really had a stalker vibe to it and this made me race through it to find out the conclusion.
I really enjoyed this one and would definitely pick up more by this author.
Verity's mum has been widowed for some time but has recently started dating a man that she met online.
Eleanor thinks he's great, but Verity really isn't sure about him and when strange things start to happen, she decides that she must get to the bottom of things.
I really liked Verity. I think I'd be just the same, not trusting someone that my mum met online. Eleanor seems quite naive about these things, but again, I totally get that she could be swept up in everythi ggiven he seems so nice and normal.
The writing style was really atmospheric at times and I found myself holding my breath and on edge. This really had a stalker vibe to it and this made me race through it to find out the conclusion.
I really enjoyed this one and would definitely pick up more by this author.
September 1, 2023
This book contains two main story lines that artfully intertwine. The plot seemingly starts out as one thing and then takes a twist and a turn that will leave you upside down on your head! It was a twist that I didn’t see coming at all. Verity discovers secrets about her mom while doing her own little investigation. I absolutely loved Verity’s inquiries. Seymour did a wonderful job bringing these characters to life, making them realistic. I also liked that the mother did have things in her past that her child didn’t know about because that too is very realistic. This was a good read that I would recommend.
November 27, 2023
A major thank you to the wonderful Zooloo book tours for having me on this tour. I enjoyed reading this book and am excited to share my thoughts 🥹.
I loved the premise of this book & it was totally jam packed FULL of drama, plot twists & dysfunction; three necessities for me in a psychological thriller 🤪
I found that I was super intrigued by the way in which the narrative panned out & that is what made me continue this novel and whizz through it!
I did find myself confused during some elements of this novel, but this could be down to my very sporadic attention span 😳
I loved the premise of this book & it was totally jam packed FULL of drama, plot twists & dysfunction; three necessities for me in a psychological thriller 🤪
I found that I was super intrigued by the way in which the narrative panned out & that is what made me continue this novel and whizz through it!
I did find myself confused during some elements of this novel, but this could be down to my very sporadic attention span 😳
August 6, 2023
I really enjoyed the first half of this book and found it really drew me in. I did find that the second half started to drag a little and I was skim reading in order to get to the end and the final reveal. When Verity's mum gets a new boyfriend, she is obviously concerned and wants to ensure that his intentions are honourable. After a little digging, she has no idea that her mother's entire past will be upturned. This leads to kidnapping, violence and hidden secrets being revealed.
September 2, 2023
Verity finds out from her meddling sister-in-law that her mum is seeing a man called Roger and had been all over him in the restaurant the night before. As Verity knew nothing of this, she decides to visit her mum and find out what is going on. When she arrives, the house is empty so she checks the calendar and finds out that Roger and her mum have been seeing each other approx four months! As her mum then puts her key in the door, Verity puts the calendar back and picks the kettle up. She brings the conversation round to Roger and gets invited to tea to meet him. Verity picks the post up from the floor and sees a postcard mailed to Elenora Kaminska which is not her mum’s name but her mum squirrels away the card saying she will speak to the postie. When she does, he is everything her mum said he was and at first Verity likes him. It’s only on reflection she has her doubts. After staying over the night before so she could have some wine, Verity wakes with a raging hangover wishing she hadn’t drunk so much. When she got downstairs it had gone noon but she found her mum in the garden then Roger came round. She had a quick drink then as she was leaving, Verity found a dead bird on the front door step and she screamed. Roger and mum came running, Roger asked for bin bags, mum found them and Roger cleared the offending item away. Verity sat comforting her mum in the meantime then took her leave again.
After speaking to her friends, Kathy and Rinelle, highlighting her concerns they offered her some advice. Verity had quizzed Roger rather well the night and had quite a few answers to run by her friends. Verity’s mum rings her asking her to housesit as Roger is taking her away for a few days, Verity agrees. Whilst there she uses her mum’s laptop and check’s her search history, which leads her to the stone house. Verity rings and books an appointment to view the property. It was once used as a school. Just what is her mum’s interest in this place? Is her mum planning to move? Verity took it upon herself to check out his offices and find out where he lives then Verity and her mum have a row over Roger, they never argue about anything.
What is Roger’s past? What are his plans for Elenor? What is Elenor hiding from Verity?
This is a terrific read and I was hooked right from the very start. The plot is great and I have certainly not read anything like it before. Two plot lines have been intricately woven together to give a sensational storyline that is gripping from start to finish. Verity is a feisty young woman who loves her mum and will do anything to protect her but even Verity can get herself into trouble sometimes when her detective skills take her array. I have found this book unputdownable and have loved reading it. I would definitely recommend it.
After speaking to her friends, Kathy and Rinelle, highlighting her concerns they offered her some advice. Verity had quizzed Roger rather well the night and had quite a few answers to run by her friends. Verity’s mum rings her asking her to housesit as Roger is taking her away for a few days, Verity agrees. Whilst there she uses her mum’s laptop and check’s her search history, which leads her to the stone house. Verity rings and books an appointment to view the property. It was once used as a school. Just what is her mum’s interest in this place? Is her mum planning to move? Verity took it upon herself to check out his offices and find out where he lives then Verity and her mum have a row over Roger, they never argue about anything.
What is Roger’s past? What are his plans for Elenor? What is Elenor hiding from Verity?
This is a terrific read and I was hooked right from the very start. The plot is great and I have certainly not read anything like it before. Two plot lines have been intricately woven together to give a sensational storyline that is gripping from start to finish. Verity is a feisty young woman who loves her mum and will do anything to protect her but even Verity can get herself into trouble sometimes when her detective skills take her array. I have found this book unputdownable and have loved reading it. I would definitely recommend it.
July 11, 2023
Name of Book: The Widow’s Boyfriend
Author: E.V. Seymour
Publisher: Joffe Books
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pub Date: August 17, 2023
My Rating: 3.3 Stars!
Pages: 336
Verity’s mother Eleanor has been a widow for five years and is now secretly dating someone she met online. Eleanor feels like her old self and has once again found happiness.
However Verity is suspicion when she meets the charming, perfect Roger Scott-Jefferies. Verity’s women’s intuition tells her something just doesn’t seem right.
There is cryptic postcard that Eleanor refused to explain.
Second part of this story goes back to when Eleanor was a neglected child. She becomes an uncontrollable and therefore an unwanted teen. Things happen and Eleanor is kidnaped and abused. Verity starts to uncover what happened to her mother when she was younger and also the many secrets that soon bring danger to Verity. Then Verity is abducted and held for ransom.
I found most of this story dark and not enjoyable but difficult to read.
The novel’s promo states
An unputdownable psychological thriller with a breathtaking twist’.
I am a big psychological thriller fan so was looking forward to this! Although I found it intense it wasn’t my twists and turns Psychological thriller.
The ending did not take my breath away’! It did clarified a lot.
Both Verity and Eleanor end up in the hospital. There they are both questioned and Eleanor goes into details explaining ~ Michael Yuill aka Roger; Cheryl Castrey, Tootha and Clay Birch.
The ending was a bit of a surprise
Want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 17, 2023.
Author: E.V. Seymour
Publisher: Joffe Books
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Pub Date: August 17, 2023
My Rating: 3.3 Stars!
Pages: 336
Verity’s mother Eleanor has been a widow for five years and is now secretly dating someone she met online. Eleanor feels like her old self and has once again found happiness.
However Verity is suspicion when she meets the charming, perfect Roger Scott-Jefferies. Verity’s women’s intuition tells her something just doesn’t seem right.
There is cryptic postcard that Eleanor refused to explain.
Second part of this story goes back to when Eleanor was a neglected child. She becomes an uncontrollable and therefore an unwanted teen. Things happen and Eleanor is kidnaped and abused. Verity starts to uncover what happened to her mother when she was younger and also the many secrets that soon bring danger to Verity. Then Verity is abducted and held for ransom.
I found most of this story dark and not enjoyable but difficult to read.
The novel’s promo states
An unputdownable psychological thriller with a breathtaking twist’.
I am a big psychological thriller fan so was looking forward to this! Although I found it intense it wasn’t my twists and turns Psychological thriller.
The ending did not take my breath away’! It did clarified a lot.
Both Verity and Eleanor end up in the hospital. There they are both questioned and Eleanor goes into details explaining ~ Michael Yuill aka Roger; Cheryl Castrey, Tootha and Clay Birch.
The ending was a bit of a surprise
Want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 17, 2023.
August 11, 2025
A very entertaining mystery thriller. This book is in two parts - the first is a good mystery as the scene is set for the danger, chases and destruction of the second thriller part. The mystery does depend on two characters not being who their names suggest they are, but the author offers a plausible explanation for both and the alter-egos - like Jekyll and Hyde - are revealed in the second part.
In addition, the book exploits the Irish Catholic culture, and the middle England folk culture brilliantly well to create and explain mystery and behaviours in the various characters. The exhibition of these traits is handled very realistically and it gives some credibility to the evils perpetrated as well as character to the baddies of the piece; usually portrayed in stories as evil people with no personality but not in this book.
There are sufficient twists and unknowns to make the book compelling reading, and the plot is so articulate that it does not really need more thrown in while the ones already existing provide sufficient uncertainty to keep the heroines in terror of their imaginary lives.
The various threads all come together satisfactorily in the final 10% or so without needing an epilogue to tie them up although the resulting legal processes are either not dealt with at all, or very superficially. These elements are not critical to the story and if they were spread out over more chapters, it would still have to end like, "so they all lived happily ever after (except the dead ones)".
This is the second book in a row that I have not only awarded 4.5 stars (as 5) but also bought more from the same author.
It's a good entertaining read.
In addition, the book exploits the Irish Catholic culture, and the middle England folk culture brilliantly well to create and explain mystery and behaviours in the various characters. The exhibition of these traits is handled very realistically and it gives some credibility to the evils perpetrated as well as character to the baddies of the piece; usually portrayed in stories as evil people with no personality but not in this book.
There are sufficient twists and unknowns to make the book compelling reading, and the plot is so articulate that it does not really need more thrown in while the ones already existing provide sufficient uncertainty to keep the heroines in terror of their imaginary lives.
The various threads all come together satisfactorily in the final 10% or so without needing an epilogue to tie them up although the resulting legal processes are either not dealt with at all, or very superficially. These elements are not critical to the story and if they were spread out over more chapters, it would still have to end like, "so they all lived happily ever after (except the dead ones)".
This is the second book in a row that I have not only awarded 4.5 stars (as 5) but also bought more from the same author.
It's a good entertaining read.
August 25, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It was truly gripping and in my opinion very well written. I loved EV Seymour’s details of the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside, the ancient buildings and her obvious knowledge of the area. I loved the day to day details of the clothes her characters are wearing, the markets and the produce displayed. These every day details of normalcy certainly round out the storyline and introduces the characters as the darker story line unfolds.
This is a book in two parts. Verity, a very likeable infant school teacher, is conflicted when she finds out that, after five years of widowhood, her mother has been dating a man she met on the internet. She is glad her mother seems to have found happiness again and Roger Scott-Jefferies seems likeable enough on first acquaintance. However, Verity is not a woman to take anyone at face value and she does some digging. What she unearths unleashes a Pandora’s box of ancient secrets and has her questioning everyone, including her own mother. The second half of the book is much faster and more violent without the hint of comedy in the first half. There are so many threads and twists it is hard to keep up but the exciting climax pulls everything together nicely.
This is a book in two parts. Verity, a very likeable infant school teacher, is conflicted when she finds out that, after five years of widowhood, her mother has been dating a man she met on the internet. She is glad her mother seems to have found happiness again and Roger Scott-Jefferies seems likeable enough on first acquaintance. However, Verity is not a woman to take anyone at face value and she does some digging. What she unearths unleashes a Pandora’s box of ancient secrets and has her questioning everyone, including her own mother. The second half of the book is much faster and more violent without the hint of comedy in the first half. There are so many threads and twists it is hard to keep up but the exciting climax pulls everything together nicely.
October 31, 2023
Verity's widowed mother has a new boyfriend. But is he really all he seems? Verity finds out her mother is secretly dating a man she met online. After five long years of widowhood, Eleanor is finally happy — and back to her old self. But Verity's suspicions are aroused when she meets the charming, seemingly perfect Roger Scott-Jefferies.
However, something is beyond off with him & Verity starts asking questions about her mother’s new man & she realizes that she doesn’t like the answers that she is getting.
Verity then finds a postcard in the mail at her mothers house, addressed to an Eleanor but has a Polish surname, when Verity asks her mother about it she tells her it is a mistake that it was sent to her house. This is the beginning of a very intense and suspenceful story that again I read in one sitting. I loved all the characters both good and bad, they all had depth and were portrayed well, each contributing to making this a great book!! Thrillers are my jam & this is high up on my list of favorites.
However, something is beyond off with him & Verity starts asking questions about her mother’s new man & she realizes that she doesn’t like the answers that she is getting.
Verity then finds a postcard in the mail at her mothers house, addressed to an Eleanor but has a Polish surname, when Verity asks her mother about it she tells her it is a mistake that it was sent to her house. This is the beginning of a very intense and suspenceful story that again I read in one sitting. I loved all the characters both good and bad, they all had depth and were portrayed well, each contributing to making this a great book!! Thrillers are my jam & this is high up on my list of favorites.
August 7, 2023
The start of this book was fairly interesting and fast paced. I did find myself skimming A LOT of this book because it started to drag a bit. The second half of the book switched between characters and sometimes it was within the same chapter. Different POVs so not entirely hard to follow but I still would have liked it if it stated WHO we were reading, rather than switching from first person to third person. I would say I skimmed through half the book. I think it could have been about 100 pages shorter with way less fluff. I lost interest quickly. It was difficult for me to get into the story or connect to any character enough to care about the outcome. Didn't feel the "breathtaking twist" it promised.
also not sure why it’s called the widows boyfriend because he was only part of the first 40% of the book and then literally never again? idk didn’t make sense as the mothers past is the main point of the story.
also not sure why it’s called the widows boyfriend because he was only part of the first 40% of the book and then literally never again? idk didn’t make sense as the mothers past is the main point of the story.
August 18, 2023
Verity's widowed mother has a new boyfriend. But is he rally all he seems? Verity finds out her mother is secretly a man she met online. After five long years of widowhood, Eleanor is finally happy = and back to her own self. But Verity's suspicions are aroused when she meets the charming, seemingly perfect roger Scott-Jeffries. Something about him doesn't ring true. Verity starts asking questions about her mother's new man and she doesn't like the answers. At the same time, strange things start happening.
The story starts of slowly then the pace picks up. Roger and his underhand plans were only part of this gripping read. There are plenty of twists and the more I found out, the more I wanted to read on. The second half of the book gets quite dark. Verity wants to find out everything about her mother's new boyfriend. Secrets from the past are revealed. There's also a kidnapping and a family is set on revenge.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #EVSeymour for my ARC of #TheWidowsBoyfriend in exchange for an honest review.
The story starts of slowly then the pace picks up. Roger and his underhand plans were only part of this gripping read. There are plenty of twists and the more I found out, the more I wanted to read on. The second half of the book gets quite dark. Verity wants to find out everything about her mother's new boyfriend. Secrets from the past are revealed. There's also a kidnapping and a family is set on revenge.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #JoffeBooks and the author #EVSeymour for my ARC of #TheWidowsBoyfriend in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2023
Verity's widowed mother has a new boyfriend. But is he really all he seems?
Verity finds out her mother is secretly dating a man she met online.
After five long years of widowhood, Eleanor is finally happy — and back to her old self. But Verity's suspicions are aroused when she meets the charming, seemingly perfect Roger Scott-Jefferies.
However, something is beyond off with him and Verity starts asking questions about her mother’s new man and she realizes that she doesn’t like the answers that she is getting.
Verity then finds a postcard in the mail at her mother's house, addressed to an Eleanor but has a Polish surname, When Verity asks her mother about it she tells her it is a mistake that it was sent to her house.
This is the beginning of a very intense and suspenceful story that, again, I read in one sitting.
I loved all the characters, both good and bad, they all had depth and were portrayed well, each contributing to making this a great book!!
Thrillers are my jam and this is now high up on my list of favorites.
Verity finds out her mother is secretly dating a man she met online.
After five long years of widowhood, Eleanor is finally happy — and back to her old self. But Verity's suspicions are aroused when she meets the charming, seemingly perfect Roger Scott-Jefferies.
However, something is beyond off with him and Verity starts asking questions about her mother’s new man and she realizes that she doesn’t like the answers that she is getting.
Verity then finds a postcard in the mail at her mother's house, addressed to an Eleanor but has a Polish surname, When Verity asks her mother about it she tells her it is a mistake that it was sent to her house.
This is the beginning of a very intense and suspenceful story that, again, I read in one sitting.
I loved all the characters, both good and bad, they all had depth and were portrayed well, each contributing to making this a great book!!
Thrillers are my jam and this is now high up on my list of favorites.
March 18, 2024
Verity's widowed mother, Eleanor, has finally found a new man that makes her happy. However, Verity notes that something is off about her mother's new love. As Verity begins to investigate, other strange occurrences begin to happen - a dead bird at the doorstop; a cryptic postcard,; and surveillance photos of Verity, Eleanor, and the rest of their family. With her investigation into Eleanor's new man, Verity quickly discovers that Eleanor's past secrets are resurfacing.
This book was really well written and well thought out. I enjoyed the richly layered plot and intricate characters. The various twists and turns definitely kept me guessing until the end! As another reviewer mentioned, I also preferred Part 1 over Part 2. Part 2 is still was still really good, but slightly all over the place. Nonetheless, a very enjoyable thriller that I could not put down!
Thank you Joffe Books and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really well written and well thought out. I enjoyed the richly layered plot and intricate characters. The various twists and turns definitely kept me guessing until the end! As another reviewer mentioned, I also preferred Part 1 over Part 2. Part 2 is still was still really good, but slightly all over the place. Nonetheless, a very enjoyable thriller that I could not put down!
Thank you Joffe Books and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2023
This was a quick read for me because I could not put it down. I have never read anything by this author but now will make it a point to peruse her writings. I loved this book. Verity's mom, Eleanor, is dating after losing her husband 5 years ago. Verity is thrilled for her until she meets the new boyfriends. Although he checks all the boxes on the outside, Verity feels something is off with him. And she intends to find out what.
This brings about a series of events that threaten the entire family. Verity discovers secrets about her mom and now Verity's life is in danger. The twists are incredible. The author did a wonderful job with the characters, bringing them all to life. The ending was perfect.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. I highly recommend this book if you love thrillers.
This brings about a series of events that threaten the entire family. Verity discovers secrets about her mom and now Verity's life is in danger. The twists are incredible. The author did a wonderful job with the characters, bringing them all to life. The ending was perfect.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC. I highly recommend this book if you love thrillers.
July 8, 2023
Verity was close to her father and is very close to her mother. When her mother goes on a date on the anniversary of her father's death - although it's been five years - Verity's hackles rise. She meets the boyfriend next day and isn't convinced that he's the decent bloke he says he is. This is compounded by strange happenings around her mother - photographs turning up of the family, a postcard with a Polish name on it. It looks like Eleanor is hiding a secret - or two - or more, maybe. Verity's on the hunt for answers - but can she take the pain.
A really good, convoluted story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher I read a free advance review copy of the book. This review is voluntary, honest and my own opinion.
A really good, convoluted story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher I read a free advance review copy of the book. This review is voluntary, honest and my own opinion.
July 21, 2023
There are many parts of the book that are enjoyable and keeps you reading to find out what is going to happen.
I found the writing style hard to follow at many parts of the book. Which is why I have to give it the star rating I have. Part 2 was the most interesting book of the book but also the hardest to follow. The point of view would change without much warning, and I would have to reread paragraphs to completely understand who's view it was. This would happen many times in the same chapter. I was into the story, so I hung in there to find out what happened, but I wish it was easier to read, so I could have enjoyed it better.
Thanks for the opportunity to read an advanced copy by netgalley!
I found the writing style hard to follow at many parts of the book. Which is why I have to give it the star rating I have. Part 2 was the most interesting book of the book but also the hardest to follow. The point of view would change without much warning, and I would have to reread paragraphs to completely understand who's view it was. This would happen many times in the same chapter. I was into the story, so I hung in there to find out what happened, but I wish it was easier to read, so I could have enjoyed it better.
Thanks for the opportunity to read an advanced copy by netgalley!
August 25, 2023
Verity is suspicious of her mother's new boyfriend and I think she had good reason because too me he instantly sounded too good to be true. I got hauntingly creepy vibes from the suspicious activities in the plot and this is what enticed me to keep reading as I just had to find out what would happen. I loved the plot and the characters my only gripe was the different POV of different characters in the same chapter. I think it would have flowed through easier if the chapters were told from just the one character POV. Other than that it is very well written and enjoyable. The stalkerish vibes were off the charts and I might have screamed out loud a few times. I loved the adrenaline rush I got from this physcological thriller.
August 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this read, it was well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters that were believable and relatable - well some of them.
i think the thing that made this book and the characters so real and believable is that I could totally see myself feeling the way that Verity does when her mum meets a new man online after the death of her husband. I think most people know that dating sites are a minefield and Eleanor seems quite innocent and ignorant of that, she is also quite vulnerable. I think if it was my mum in that situation I also would be very wary
The plot was absolutely gripping and had me hooked right from the very start. It was twisty, unpredictable and kept me guessing with a creepy atmosphere infused throughout the book.
I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting, I really liked it.
i think the thing that made this book and the characters so real and believable is that I could totally see myself feeling the way that Verity does when her mum meets a new man online after the death of her husband. I think most people know that dating sites are a minefield and Eleanor seems quite innocent and ignorant of that, she is also quite vulnerable. I think if it was my mum in that situation I also would be very wary
The plot was absolutely gripping and had me hooked right from the very start. It was twisty, unpredictable and kept me guessing with a creepy atmosphere infused throughout the book.
I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting, I really liked it.
July 20, 2023
The Widow’s Boyfriend starts with a new man in Eleanor’s life, 5 years after her husband passed. Verity, Eleanor’s daughter, is the only one concerned that Roger seems suspicious. After doing some digging and detective work on her own, what she finds out still isn’t enough to convince her mother he isn’t who he says he is.
The second half of the book was better than the first in my opinion. I feel the transition wasn’t as smooth as it could have been, but the storyline definitely sucked me in. Overall it was a great storyline and I’m glad it ended happily! Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
The second half of the book was better than the first in my opinion. I feel the transition wasn’t as smooth as it could have been, but the storyline definitely sucked me in. Overall it was a great storyline and I’m glad it ended happily! Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC!
August 14, 2023
The Widow’s Boyfriend, by E V Seymour.
Verity and Adam are concerned about their mother’s new boyfriend and rightly so!
This book is less about the new boyfriend, Roger, and more about how his research into Eleanor, in order to con her out of her money, stirs up ghosts from her past and reignites an old quest for revenge, which her daughter, Verity, becomes caught up in.
An intriguing and enjoyable read, but the characters were under developed and lacklustre, and the plot didn’t have the shocking twists that I was expecting.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and Joffe for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Verity and Adam are concerned about their mother’s new boyfriend and rightly so!
This book is less about the new boyfriend, Roger, and more about how his research into Eleanor, in order to con her out of her money, stirs up ghosts from her past and reignites an old quest for revenge, which her daughter, Verity, becomes caught up in.
An intriguing and enjoyable read, but the characters were under developed and lacklustre, and the plot didn’t have the shocking twists that I was expecting.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and Joffe for an ARC in return for an honest review.
September 1, 2023
I really enjoyed this read. It was thrilling, exciting and lots of fun to guess at throughout. I really liked Verity’s character. It was fun to get to know her and find out about her personality and then to read along as she was investigating and questioning her mother’s relationship was really intriguing.
I enjoyed the way Verity went about trying to find the truth. I especially liked the twists and turns that we were given, as we tried to guess just what was up with their boyfriend and his behaviour and personality.
Overall, this was a really good book. It is one lots of thriller readers will really enjoy. I would highly recommend giving this book a go.
I enjoyed the way Verity went about trying to find the truth. I especially liked the twists and turns that we were given, as we tried to guess just what was up with their boyfriend and his behaviour and personality.
Overall, this was a really good book. It is one lots of thriller readers will really enjoy. I would highly recommend giving this book a go.
July 4, 2023
This was an amazingly written suspenseful / thriller with a plot twist that takes your breath away!
The Characters were well written, easy to get along with and understand, and have specific emotions towards each individual!
From start to finish, this book hooked me and questioned But Who? Why? How? What? When? and many other questions wrapped up nicely by the end of the plot!
I cannot wait to read more and recommend many more of E.V Seymour's work to my friends and family. It's nice to also have someone to be proud and honored of being a fellow Black Country Girl Myself!
The Characters were well written, easy to get along with and understand, and have specific emotions towards each individual!
From start to finish, this book hooked me and questioned But Who? Why? How? What? When? and many other questions wrapped up nicely by the end of the plot!
I cannot wait to read more and recommend many more of E.V Seymour's work to my friends and family. It's nice to also have someone to be proud and honored of being a fellow Black Country Girl Myself!
July 26, 2023
The story follows Verity, and her mother, Eleanor through some deeply rooted secrets that are being unearthed by a new relationship. We follow them through their journey to truth and reconciliation.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and thought the plot was engaging. However, the storyline became a bit hard to grasp with some “coincidences” and attitudes expressed by the characters.
I also feel like I wanted more from the ending. Another twist or more clarity.
Overall would consider 3.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and thought the plot was engaging. However, the storyline became a bit hard to grasp with some “coincidences” and attitudes expressed by the characters.
I also feel like I wanted more from the ending. Another twist or more clarity.
Overall would consider 3.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
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