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Private Lives
The addictive and thought-provoking new novel from the author of the Richard & Judy book club pick, THE HERD. Praise for Emily knock-out twist' Gillian McAllister'Will have book clubs across the country in hot debate! Brilliant.' Clare Mackintosh***Available to pre-order now***
In the sleepy seaside sleepy town of Waverly, Rosie and Seb Kent are happily married. Now that Seb has achieved his dream of becoming headmaster of the local school, their lives couldn't be any better.
Then Abi arrives.
Abi, a young, single mother, has come to Waverly for a fresh start. She plans to reinvent herself and give her children a new life.
Then she sees Seb.
As their complicated hidden past threatens to destroy them both, they try their hardest to keep it contained. But in a small town, secrets don’t stay hidden for long and soon, what should be their private business becomes a very public scandal. How far will everyone – them, their families and the whole community – go to protect everything they hold dearest?
In the sleepy seaside sleepy town of Waverly, Rosie and Seb Kent are happily married. Now that Seb has achieved his dream of becoming headmaster of the local school, their lives couldn't be any better.
Then Abi arrives.
Abi, a young, single mother, has come to Waverly for a fresh start. She plans to reinvent herself and give her children a new life.
Then she sees Seb.
As their complicated hidden past threatens to destroy them both, they try their hardest to keep it contained. But in a small town, secrets don’t stay hidden for long and soon, what should be their private business becomes a very public scandal. How far will everyone – them, their families and the whole community – go to protect everything they hold dearest?
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2025
118 people are currently reading
1024 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
March 17, 2025
This is Emily Edwards' second novel and she clearly has a brilliant knack for the book-club type discussion novel.
For those who haven't read her first novel, The Herd, which tackled the subject of immunisations I would recommend it.
Private Lives deals with, well people's private lives (that was kind obvious, right?). The book tells the story of Seb, married to Rosie, and local headmaster. When Abi and her children move into the local area, and she strikes up a friendship with Rosie, it becomes clear that she and Seb have history. But what is that history, what effect will it have on those around them, as well as the local community and school.
It's difficult to go into too much more detail for fear of spoilers, however this will be another book which has people debating. Themes of fidelity, marriage, communication are all throughout the book but it really asks the key question, can someone (especially those in power) really be forgiven for making a mistake? Can a public figure's life really ever be private?
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers | Bantam for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For those who haven't read her first novel, The Herd, which tackled the subject of immunisations I would recommend it.
Private Lives deals with, well people's private lives (that was kind obvious, right?). The book tells the story of Seb, married to Rosie, and local headmaster. When Abi and her children move into the local area, and she strikes up a friendship with Rosie, it becomes clear that she and Seb have history. But what is that history, what effect will it have on those around them, as well as the local community and school.
It's difficult to go into too much more detail for fear of spoilers, however this will be another book which has people debating. Themes of fidelity, marriage, communication are all throughout the book but it really asks the key question, can someone (especially those in power) really be forgiven for making a mistake? Can a public figure's life really ever be private?
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers | Bantam for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2025
4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Private Lives by Emily Edwards is an excellently written book full of drama and a fascinating exploration of a secret that comes to light in the sleepy seaside town of Waverly. It tells the story of two couples who are happily married, Rosie and Seb Kent. Now that Seb has achieved his biggest dream of becoming headmaster of the local school, life is perfect. That is until Abi arrives and moves into the small town with her two girls, a fresh start for her family. However things take a turn when she encounters Seb and their hidden past threatens to destroy them both. But in a small town like Waverly secrets can't stay hidden forever, and when it finally comes out, the entire community has their nose in the private business.
With excellent narration from written by Emily Edwards the book is simply entertaining from start to finish. This book will definitely have people and book clubs in hot debate, the story is simply that good, controversial, addictive and creative. Filled with complex and multilayered characters, this book is a must-read for fans who love drama, family and friendship stakes. With excellent themes such as betrayal, disgust, envy, love, hatred, shame, forgiveness, freedom, honesty, separation, growth, and connection.
Private Lives is a really beautiful, insightful, compassionate and nuanced read. It's got surprising twists as well, it will definitely leave you with questions and thoughts such as: "How would I have handled that situation?"; "Would I have done that?"; " Are they really in the wrong? It was just a mistake"; and "Who are they to judge them for what they did?"; "Ok, yes, they screwed up they definitely deserve this".
Definitely important to highlight that Emily Edwards worked in London as a support worker for vulnerable woman at a large charity. I do believe that working there helped inspire her to write this book, mainly due to the topic it touches on, which I won't really say because I feel that could lightly spoil the book.
Emily Edwards is a phenomenal writer and I really enjoyed this book, I found it eye opening and genuine. Especially for one of the main characters Seb Kent, I loved how it was eye opening for him. I especially liked how Emily Edwards wrote that:
"Shame, loses its power when it's not hidden away but brought out, into the light."
Definitely give this book a read when it drops in June, once again I'm super thankful for working in a bookstore. Where I can proofs of books that will be released right around the corner!
Private Lives by Emily Edwards is an excellently written book full of drama and a fascinating exploration of a secret that comes to light in the sleepy seaside town of Waverly. It tells the story of two couples who are happily married, Rosie and Seb Kent. Now that Seb has achieved his biggest dream of becoming headmaster of the local school, life is perfect. That is until Abi arrives and moves into the small town with her two girls, a fresh start for her family. However things take a turn when she encounters Seb and their hidden past threatens to destroy them both. But in a small town like Waverly secrets can't stay hidden forever, and when it finally comes out, the entire community has their nose in the private business.
With excellent narration from written by Emily Edwards the book is simply entertaining from start to finish. This book will definitely have people and book clubs in hot debate, the story is simply that good, controversial, addictive and creative. Filled with complex and multilayered characters, this book is a must-read for fans who love drama, family and friendship stakes. With excellent themes such as betrayal, disgust, envy, love, hatred, shame, forgiveness, freedom, honesty, separation, growth, and connection.
Private Lives is a really beautiful, insightful, compassionate and nuanced read. It's got surprising twists as well, it will definitely leave you with questions and thoughts such as: "How would I have handled that situation?"; "Would I have done that?"; " Are they really in the wrong? It was just a mistake"; and "Who are they to judge them for what they did?"; "Ok, yes, they screwed up they definitely deserve this".
Definitely important to highlight that Emily Edwards worked in London as a support worker for vulnerable woman at a large charity. I do believe that working there helped inspire her to write this book, mainly due to the topic it touches on, which I won't really say because I feel that could lightly spoil the book.
Emily Edwards is a phenomenal writer and I really enjoyed this book, I found it eye opening and genuine. Especially for one of the main characters Seb Kent, I loved how it was eye opening for him. I especially liked how Emily Edwards wrote that:
"Shame, loses its power when it's not hidden away but brought out, into the light."
Definitely give this book a read when it drops in June, once again I'm super thankful for working in a bookstore. Where I can proofs of books that will be released right around the corner!
June 24, 2025
Rosie and Seb Kent are a married couple with three children, living in a small town of Waverly. On the surface, their lives appear perfect: he’s recently become a headmaster of the local secondary school, and they enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
However, underneath, there are cracks. Rosie isn’t sure of her body anymore, especially after bearing three children. Every time Seb moves closer to her and initiates physical contact, she pushes him away.
Abi is a single mum of two daughters who recently moved to the area. She and Rosie become acquainted, with Rosie hoping that it will blossom into a friendship. When Rosie invites Abi to her house, something strange passes between Abi and Seb. It appears that they may know each other from before…
I really enjoyed this tense, community-based drama.
I was appalled at Anna’s actions, who took it upon herself to air Seb’s dirty laundry for everyone to know and judge.
I was desperate to uncover Seb’s secret, and when it became apparent what it was, I was left wondering if a person with great authority is allowed to have a private life. If you’re a person in charge of impressionable and vulnerable young adults (who legally are still children), are the lines blurred, or black and white? Lots of food for thought!
I definitely recommend this book.
However, underneath, there are cracks. Rosie isn’t sure of her body anymore, especially after bearing three children. Every time Seb moves closer to her and initiates physical contact, she pushes him away.
Abi is a single mum of two daughters who recently moved to the area. She and Rosie become acquainted, with Rosie hoping that it will blossom into a friendship. When Rosie invites Abi to her house, something strange passes between Abi and Seb. It appears that they may know each other from before…
I really enjoyed this tense, community-based drama.
I was appalled at Anna’s actions, who took it upon herself to air Seb’s dirty laundry for everyone to know and judge.
I was desperate to uncover Seb’s secret, and when it became apparent what it was, I was left wondering if a person with great authority is allowed to have a private life. If you’re a person in charge of impressionable and vulnerable young adults (who legally are still children), are the lines blurred, or black and white? Lots of food for thought!
I definitely recommend this book.
December 21, 2025
I want to start by saying I went into Private Lives right after reading The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah. Maybe that was my mistake.
The Four Winds is an expertly crafted novel, with emotionally rich writing and compelling storytelling that brings the characters to life. You feel each character’s hope and struggles as if they were real people. You go on an emotional journey. There are layers upon layers of depth and nuance. You care about what happens and, in the end, you're left with a story that stays with you well after you finished it. Following a book like that isn’t easy; most novels would struggle to measure up.
But still… I didn’t expect this!
The quality of the writing, the storytelling, the character development... every element felt like a massive step down. Heck, a full-on painful tumble down!
Take, for example, the line: “her accent was warm like hot chocolate poured over words.” What does that even mean? And this is describing Danish, of all languages! Lines like this occur often enough to make the prose feel overwrought and distracting rather than engaging.
And then there’s the story itself.
The novel attempts to explore small-town life, morality, friendship, in/fidelity, and sex work. Yet despite these ambitions, it never moves beyond a shallow, black-and-white treatment of these subjects. There’s a persistent sense of smugness throughout, with scenes and character choices feeling orchestrated to reinforce particular moral positions rather than emerging naturally from the story.
The characters also rarely behave like real people. They have no emotional depth and no complexity. Rather than living and breathing within the story, they come off as exaggerated stand-ins for simplified traits or ideas, existing only to move the plot along. As a result, so many of their actions (and interactions) feel shallow. Staged. I'm not just talking about Anna's point of view, which is written to come from someone narrow-minded by design. It's Seb’s speech, Abby’s heart-to-heart with her daughter, Lucy’s call to the radio, even Rosie’s and even Eddy’s supposed 'evolution'. It all feels so forced and insubstantial, with none of the characters ever coming across as genuinely relatable. Or even recognisably human.
By the end, I was genuinely irritated.
Perhaps this will resonate with readers looking for surface-level low-stakes small-town drama. Something forgettable and undemanding? I genuinely don’t know. What I do know is that, for me, reading Private Lives felt like an act of endurance.
The Four Winds is an expertly crafted novel, with emotionally rich writing and compelling storytelling that brings the characters to life. You feel each character’s hope and struggles as if they were real people. You go on an emotional journey. There are layers upon layers of depth and nuance. You care about what happens and, in the end, you're left with a story that stays with you well after you finished it. Following a book like that isn’t easy; most novels would struggle to measure up.
But still… I didn’t expect this!
The quality of the writing, the storytelling, the character development... every element felt like a massive step down. Heck, a full-on painful tumble down!
Take, for example, the line: “her accent was warm like hot chocolate poured over words.” What does that even mean? And this is describing Danish, of all languages! Lines like this occur often enough to make the prose feel overwrought and distracting rather than engaging.
And then there’s the story itself.
The novel attempts to explore small-town life, morality, friendship, in/fidelity, and sex work. Yet despite these ambitions, it never moves beyond a shallow, black-and-white treatment of these subjects. There’s a persistent sense of smugness throughout, with scenes and character choices feeling orchestrated to reinforce particular moral positions rather than emerging naturally from the story.
The characters also rarely behave like real people. They have no emotional depth and no complexity. Rather than living and breathing within the story, they come off as exaggerated stand-ins for simplified traits or ideas, existing only to move the plot along. As a result, so many of their actions (and interactions) feel shallow. Staged. I'm not just talking about Anna's point of view, which is written to come from someone narrow-minded by design. It's Seb’s speech, Abby’s heart-to-heart with her daughter, Lucy’s call to the radio, even Rosie’s and even Eddy’s supposed 'evolution'. It all feels so forced and insubstantial, with none of the characters ever coming across as genuinely relatable. Or even recognisably human.
By the end, I was genuinely irritated.
Perhaps this will resonate with readers looking for surface-level low-stakes small-town drama. Something forgettable and undemanding? I genuinely don’t know. What I do know is that, for me, reading Private Lives felt like an act of endurance.
May 11, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Seb is the local headmaster of a secondary school, and he is married to Rosie. Anew lady moves to their close knit area with her children called Abi, and Rosie instantly likes her and begins a new friendship. When Abi meets Seb, it's clear that they already know each other. Seb decides to confess a secret to his friend, and thats when the web unravels.
This author is brilliant at writing stories that really make you think, and which side you would be on. The characters are all written completely flawed, no one is perfect here, and that just makes the story far more engaging and completely compelling. The author always includes subjects that can be a bit taboo, and this one is no different, and we see the subject of fidelity, marriage issues, and whether a public figure should have their private lives subject to other peoples judgement and opinion. I really loved this story, and I know which camp I was in.
Seb is the local headmaster of a secondary school, and he is married to Rosie. Anew lady moves to their close knit area with her children called Abi, and Rosie instantly likes her and begins a new friendship. When Abi meets Seb, it's clear that they already know each other. Seb decides to confess a secret to his friend, and thats when the web unravels.
This author is brilliant at writing stories that really make you think, and which side you would be on. The characters are all written completely flawed, no one is perfect here, and that just makes the story far more engaging and completely compelling. The author always includes subjects that can be a bit taboo, and this one is no different, and we see the subject of fidelity, marriage issues, and whether a public figure should have their private lives subject to other peoples judgement and opinion. I really loved this story, and I know which camp I was in.
March 18, 2025
Private Lives by Emily Edwards is the kind of book that pulls you in from the first chapter and doesn’t let go. It’s a smart, emotionally charged story about secrets, trust, and the messy consequences of past choices catching up with the present.
Rosie and Seb Kent seem to have it all together, but when Abi, someone from their past reappears, cracks start to show.
What follows is a gripping unraveling of their carefully built life, as old wounds resurface and hidden truths come to light. Edwards does a fantastic job of making you feel the tension, not just in the relationships but in the way private matters can spiral into public scrutiny.
The characters are what make this book so compelling. Rosie’s need for control, Seb’s quiet turmoil, and Abi’s struggle for a fresh start feel incredibly real. Edwards doesn’t give easy answers or clear villains, everyone is flawed, and that’s what makes the story so engaging.
If you like domestic dramas that make you think, Private Lives is definitely worth a read. It’s suspenseful, timely, and leaves you questioning how well we really know the people closest to us.
You can follow my reviews at
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Rosie and Seb Kent seem to have it all together, but when Abi, someone from their past reappears, cracks start to show.
What follows is a gripping unraveling of their carefully built life, as old wounds resurface and hidden truths come to light. Edwards does a fantastic job of making you feel the tension, not just in the relationships but in the way private matters can spiral into public scrutiny.
The characters are what make this book so compelling. Rosie’s need for control, Seb’s quiet turmoil, and Abi’s struggle for a fresh start feel incredibly real. Edwards doesn’t give easy answers or clear villains, everyone is flawed, and that’s what makes the story so engaging.
If you like domestic dramas that make you think, Private Lives is definitely worth a read. It’s suspenseful, timely, and leaves you questioning how well we really know the people closest to us.
You can follow my reviews at
Blog: https://thebookreviewcafe.wordpress.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookrevi...
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/@reviewcafe
June 8, 2025
8In the sleepy seaside sleepy town of Waverly, Rosie and Seb Kent are happily married. Now that Seb has achieved his dream of becoming headmaster of the local school, their lives couldn't be any better.
Then Abi arrives.
Abi, a young, single mother, has come to Waverly for a fresh start. She plans to reinvent herself and give her children a new life.
Then she sees Seb.
As their complicated hidden past threatens to destroy them both, they try their hardest to keep it contained. But in a small town, secrets don’t stay hidden for long and soon, what should be their private business becomes a very public scandal. How far will everyone – them, their families and the whole community – go to protect everything they hold dearest?
I loved Emily's debut, The Herd, which gave me much to think about, and, if you've read it yourself, you'll know how good she is at taking a complex moral issue and exploring it from all angles. All its many aspects - many you'll think of, and some you won't - are scrutinised and weighed in a really balanced way, challenging your opinions, thoughts and perceptions, all whilst simultaneously writing a gripping, page-turner of a read.
This novel is exactly the same. It's extremely thought-provoking, as well as perfectly paced, and the tensions gradually build as the story unfolds.
The characters are all deftly drawn, well-observed and well-realised, even though we may not always like some of them, or approve of their opinions, actions and attitudes.
I'm deliberately being vague on the details which provide the focus and themes of this story, because it's the kind of read you'll enjoy more by going into it knowing as little as possible.
Suffice to say it contains enough moral complexity to satisfy the most dissectional bookclub, and as a solo reader you'll reach the end desperate to find someone else who has also read it, so that you can pull apart its issues together, because one of the things Emily Edwards does so well is show us how life is considerably more grey than the black and white people often consider it to be.
Provocative, meaty, compelling, riveting, recommended.
Then Abi arrives.
Abi, a young, single mother, has come to Waverly for a fresh start. She plans to reinvent herself and give her children a new life.
Then she sees Seb.
As their complicated hidden past threatens to destroy them both, they try their hardest to keep it contained. But in a small town, secrets don’t stay hidden for long and soon, what should be their private business becomes a very public scandal. How far will everyone – them, their families and the whole community – go to protect everything they hold dearest?
I loved Emily's debut, The Herd, which gave me much to think about, and, if you've read it yourself, you'll know how good she is at taking a complex moral issue and exploring it from all angles. All its many aspects - many you'll think of, and some you won't - are scrutinised and weighed in a really balanced way, challenging your opinions, thoughts and perceptions, all whilst simultaneously writing a gripping, page-turner of a read.
This novel is exactly the same. It's extremely thought-provoking, as well as perfectly paced, and the tensions gradually build as the story unfolds.
The characters are all deftly drawn, well-observed and well-realised, even though we may not always like some of them, or approve of their opinions, actions and attitudes.
I'm deliberately being vague on the details which provide the focus and themes of this story, because it's the kind of read you'll enjoy more by going into it knowing as little as possible.
Suffice to say it contains enough moral complexity to satisfy the most dissectional bookclub, and as a solo reader you'll reach the end desperate to find someone else who has also read it, so that you can pull apart its issues together, because one of the things Emily Edwards does so well is show us how life is considerably more grey than the black and white people often consider it to be.
Provocative, meaty, compelling, riveting, recommended.
June 25, 2025
‘The Herd’ the authors debut was a favourite read of mine so was keen to see what this next book would offer
Once again we are thrust into a neighbourhood, wealthy, aspiring, showy and all ‘oh so friendly’….until one of their own has a secret he has managed to keep from everyone unexpectedly appears ( no not a secret child ) it’s delicate, seen by some as immoral, not illegal but very high on the ‘tut, how shocking’ scale
As the secret becomes commoner knowledge naturally the knives are out and so called best friends turn their backs and a petition is started to rid the town of him ( makes sense when read it )
It is a fascinating look at how different people react to the exact same situation,
the innocent ( depending on your views ) start to suffer, the visceral hate of some is a shock, the placid care and no nonsense resolution of others a relief
Very much dependant on your standpoint is how this book will affect and polarise you, I liked how all sides were clearly shown, discussed and then we saw how the various decisions made went on to affect those involved
The author writes non judgementally giving everyone a fair ‘airing’ and I loved all aspects of this unshying from reality read
Once again we are thrust into a neighbourhood, wealthy, aspiring, showy and all ‘oh so friendly’….until one of their own has a secret he has managed to keep from everyone unexpectedly appears ( no not a secret child ) it’s delicate, seen by some as immoral, not illegal but very high on the ‘tut, how shocking’ scale
As the secret becomes commoner knowledge naturally the knives are out and so called best friends turn their backs and a petition is started to rid the town of him ( makes sense when read it )
It is a fascinating look at how different people react to the exact same situation,
the innocent ( depending on your views ) start to suffer, the visceral hate of some is a shock, the placid care and no nonsense resolution of others a relief
Very much dependant on your standpoint is how this book will affect and polarise you, I liked how all sides were clearly shown, discussed and then we saw how the various decisions made went on to affect those involved
The author writes non judgementally giving everyone a fair ‘airing’ and I loved all aspects of this unshying from reality read
August 23, 2025
Didn’t enjoy as much as the Herd but still a good one!
March 16, 2025
***advance review copy received from NetGalley in return for an honest review***
Very very good. I was worried for a few chapters that this wouldn’t live up to Edwards’ previous - The Herd - which is a book I read a few years ago and still sticks with me today. No fear - lightning has struck twice and I can’t help but hope it strikes again in the future. Edwards seems to have a knack for deconstructing the nuance and complications of certain situations, and it’s incredibly readable with a narrative that will continue to question you long after the final page.
Very very good. I was worried for a few chapters that this wouldn’t live up to Edwards’ previous - The Herd - which is a book I read a few years ago and still sticks with me today. No fear - lightning has struck twice and I can’t help but hope it strikes again in the future. Edwards seems to have a knack for deconstructing the nuance and complications of certain situations, and it’s incredibly readable with a narrative that will continue to question you long after the final page.
July 3, 2025
The concept of the story was good, but the narrative and dialogue were so trite and over-sentimentalised that it all became increasingly irritating.
I suppose in reality it’s a beach read - something that requires very little intellectual investment and there’s nothing wrong with that as long as the reader isn’t expecting anything more.
I suppose in reality it’s a beach read - something that requires very little intellectual investment and there’s nothing wrong with that as long as the reader isn’t expecting anything more.
June 18, 2025
Seb Kent has just achieved his dream of becoming headmaster at his local high school in the seaside town of Waverly, he is happily married to Rosie and they have three children. Their lives are fairly simple, they have good friends, their closest being Eddy and Anna, in fact Eddie and Seb are more like brothers, always there for each other. Rosie has made friends with newcomer, single mother Abi who has recently moved to the town looking for a fresh start with her two children but it soon becomes evident when Rosie introduces Abi to her family and friends, that this isn't the first time she and Seb have met and, in a small town like Waverly, it's not long before tongues start to wag and their past explodes into a huge public scandal with some very dire consequences within the community.
Private Lives is the latest domestic drama by Edwards and, after reading her debut The Herd, I was really looking forward to this one. As before, this new one is a fast paced read which centres on a fairly controversial topic for some but, what should have remained private between Seb and Rosie, was soon leaked out into the community and turned into a witch hunt! I really felt for Rosie and the predicament she was in, an issue that can be common in long term relationships and, even though what Seb did was wrong, it was nobody else's business and certainly didn't warrant the backlash it received. There were some really decent characters in this story including Abi who was just doing what she felt was best for her girls at the time, others I didn't like at all and I certainly wouldn't welcome a friend like Anna! This was an interesting story that I can imagine would raise some split opinions in a book club discussion and, as with The Herd, it was one I couldn't put down.
I'd like to thank Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and Netgalley for inviting me to read this, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
Private Lives is the latest domestic drama by Edwards and, after reading her debut The Herd, I was really looking forward to this one. As before, this new one is a fast paced read which centres on a fairly controversial topic for some but, what should have remained private between Seb and Rosie, was soon leaked out into the community and turned into a witch hunt! I really felt for Rosie and the predicament she was in, an issue that can be common in long term relationships and, even though what Seb did was wrong, it was nobody else's business and certainly didn't warrant the backlash it received. There were some really decent characters in this story including Abi who was just doing what she felt was best for her girls at the time, others I didn't like at all and I certainly wouldn't welcome a friend like Anna! This was an interesting story that I can imagine would raise some split opinions in a book club discussion and, as with The Herd, it was one I couldn't put down.
I'd like to thank Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and Netgalley for inviting me to read this, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
May 23, 2025
This is Emily's second novel. If you loved The Herd, then you will absolutely love this.
Set in a Waverley, this comes across as like a village with ladies who like to do coffee after the school run in the morning, very cliquey.
There are only a few characters, and these are the ones we concentrate on.
Seb has become a headteacher at the local secondary school. A job he has always dreamed of doing. Married to Rosie, they have 2 children.
When someone from Seb's past turns up in Waverley, his life starts to unravel.
Their best friends, Anna and Eddy, have their own issues, but when Anna hears something about Seb, it's like a runaway train, and there is no stopping Anna!
This was compulsive reading, unputdownable.
It is definitely thought-provoking .I found myself swaying one way, then another.
I'm looking forward to my friends reading it so we can have a good discussion.
This is my favourite book so far this year.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House uk for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Set in a Waverley, this comes across as like a village with ladies who like to do coffee after the school run in the morning, very cliquey.
There are only a few characters, and these are the ones we concentrate on.
Seb has become a headteacher at the local secondary school. A job he has always dreamed of doing. Married to Rosie, they have 2 children.
When someone from Seb's past turns up in Waverley, his life starts to unravel.
Their best friends, Anna and Eddy, have their own issues, but when Anna hears something about Seb, it's like a runaway train, and there is no stopping Anna!
This was compulsive reading, unputdownable.
It is definitely thought-provoking .I found myself swaying one way, then another.
I'm looking forward to my friends reading it so we can have a good discussion.
This is my favourite book so far this year.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House uk for the ARC in return for an honest review.
June 25, 2025
Private Lives is a real page turner. Believable characters and a pacy plot. Themes of marriage, trust, moral choices. Would work well for book group discussions. Recommended
In the sleepy seaside sleepy town of Waverly, Rosie and Seb Kent are happily married. Now that Seb has achieved his dream of becoming headmaster of the local school, their lives couldn't be any better.
Then Abi arrives.
Abi, a young, single mother, has come to Waverly for a fresh start. She plans to reinvent herself and give her children a new life.
Then she sees Seb.
As their complicated hidden past threatens to destroy them both, they try their hardest to keep it contained. But in a small town, secrets don’t stay hidden for long and soon, what should be their private business becomes a very public scandal. How far will everyone – them, their families and the whole community – go to protect everything they hold dearest?
In the sleepy seaside sleepy town of Waverly, Rosie and Seb Kent are happily married. Now that Seb has achieved his dream of becoming headmaster of the local school, their lives couldn't be any better.
Then Abi arrives.
Abi, a young, single mother, has come to Waverly for a fresh start. She plans to reinvent herself and give her children a new life.
Then she sees Seb.
As their complicated hidden past threatens to destroy them both, they try their hardest to keep it contained. But in a small town, secrets don’t stay hidden for long and soon, what should be their private business becomes a very public scandal. How far will everyone – them, their families and the whole community – go to protect everything they hold dearest?
September 4, 2025
Emily Edwards delivers a gripping and emotionally charged novel that dives into the hidden corners of relationships and the consequences of secrecy. Private Lives explores what happens when personal choices collide with public expectations, raising questions about honesty, loyalty, and the delicate balance between independence and togetherness.
The writing is sharp and empathetic, making the characters feel vivid and real. Each one is layered with flaws, desires, and regrets, which makes the story compelling because you can see yourself, or people you know, reflected in them. The pacing keeps you turning the pages, yet it also leaves you thinking about the moral dilemmas long after you close the book.
What stood out most to me is the way Edwards shows that no relationship is ever as simple as it appears from the outside. Secrets can protect, but they can also destroy, and this tension drives the narrative beautifully.
If you enjoy thought provoking fiction about relationships, morality, and the gray areas of life, Private Lives is worth reading.
The writing is sharp and empathetic, making the characters feel vivid and real. Each one is layered with flaws, desires, and regrets, which makes the story compelling because you can see yourself, or people you know, reflected in them. The pacing keeps you turning the pages, yet it also leaves you thinking about the moral dilemmas long after you close the book.
What stood out most to me is the way Edwards shows that no relationship is ever as simple as it appears from the outside. Secrets can protect, but they can also destroy, and this tension drives the narrative beautifully.
If you enjoy thought provoking fiction about relationships, morality, and the gray areas of life, Private Lives is worth reading.
June 9, 2025
You can only ever do what is right or best for you at any given time. How you will be judged for those actions is another matter. Abi does what is best for her to improve her life, to create a fresh start, but what goes around comes around – and there are always those ready to stand in judgement and be delighted that your sins have found you out. And my, how superior and correct they will feel.
Thank goodness for loyal friends and those with a sense of fair play.
The description of a mother losing her sense of self and sovereignty over her body, amongst the demands as wife, mother, daughter, neighbour, friend, is a treat to read – so many women will identify with the resentment described, the fatigue, and the desire to be autonomous, without giving up these roles!
When events best kept secret escape, Emily Edwards describes the fall-out with clarity and empathy. A most enjoyable read!
Thank goodness for loyal friends and those with a sense of fair play.
The description of a mother losing her sense of self and sovereignty over her body, amongst the demands as wife, mother, daughter, neighbour, friend, is a treat to read – so many women will identify with the resentment described, the fatigue, and the desire to be autonomous, without giving up these roles!
When events best kept secret escape, Emily Edwards describes the fall-out with clarity and empathy. A most enjoyable read!
June 21, 2025
By the time I started reading this book, I had forgotten the blurb on the cover and I’m glad that I had. You will, by this point, have read the blurb and don’t need me to précis the book for you. Suffice to say that when Mr Seb Kent the local headmaster first realised that a part of his past he hoped would never be discovered appeared in his village, he was horrified. So was I! I was trying to think of all the possible wrong doings a headmaster could have committed that would potentially destroy his life. When I discovered what it was it wasn’t nearly as bad as the things I had imagined and yet rock his world it definitely did.
This is a well written book and quite suspenseful. An original (to me anyway) storyline, that pulled me in and kept me page turning. It demonstrates beautifully, the hypocrisy and ‘pack mentality’ of small minded parochial communities, while delighting with the open-minded, respectful, ‘live and let live’ attitude of the Gen Z kids who get a lot of bad press these days. Well not in this book, my heart swelled at the maturity of these kids and the immaturity of heir parents.
It opened my mind to the plight of those who do jobs that aren’t of their choosing and the impact that has on their lives. It also reinforced my belief that Karma always comes to those who deserve it. I had already recommended this book to friends before I’d even finished it. A great book club read, in my opinion.
My thanks, as always go to the author Emily Edwards, (whose books I will definitely watch out for!) to the publishers and to NetGalley for an advanced e.copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in my review are 100% my own.
This is a well written book and quite suspenseful. An original (to me anyway) storyline, that pulled me in and kept me page turning. It demonstrates beautifully, the hypocrisy and ‘pack mentality’ of small minded parochial communities, while delighting with the open-minded, respectful, ‘live and let live’ attitude of the Gen Z kids who get a lot of bad press these days. Well not in this book, my heart swelled at the maturity of these kids and the immaturity of heir parents.
It opened my mind to the plight of those who do jobs that aren’t of their choosing and the impact that has on their lives. It also reinforced my belief that Karma always comes to those who deserve it. I had already recommended this book to friends before I’d even finished it. A great book club read, in my opinion.
My thanks, as always go to the author Emily Edwards, (whose books I will definitely watch out for!) to the publishers and to NetGalley for an advanced e.copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in my review are 100% my own.
May 31, 2025
Private lives by Emuly Edwards is set in a 'perfect English town where Rosie, her husband Seb and their 3 children live. A scandal with Rosie and Seb at the center reveals maybe the town isn't as perfect as first thought. What follows shows how toxic small towns can be.
This is a well written novel with believable characters who feel real. Parts of it infuriated me but I feel like that might have been the authors intention.
If you are looking for a book with an interesting plot and is easy to read then I highly recommend this one
This is a well written novel with believable characters who feel real. Parts of it infuriated me but I feel like that might have been the authors intention.
If you are looking for a book with an interesting plot and is easy to read then I highly recommend this one
June 21, 2025
A great beautiful written book that captured me. It's a story told from multiple perspectives about how a secret from someone's past can shake up a whole small town and bring out the deepest and most surprising views of people you think you know.
At an even Emily Edwards described this book as a spicy margarita to us and if that's not reason enough to read it
At an even Emily Edwards described this book as a spicy margarita to us and if that's not reason enough to read it
December 12, 2025
It took me way too long to get through this book.
My main problem is that the first half was too slow and it dragged so much; from the 50% on, I did enjoy it.
It had an interesting moral dilemma and it was discussed very well, using many povs and getting deep into the issue.
But because of that slow first half I struggled with it
My main problem is that the first half was too slow and it dragged so much; from the 50% on, I did enjoy it.
It had an interesting moral dilemma and it was discussed very well, using many povs and getting deep into the issue.
But because of that slow first half I struggled with it
June 23, 2025
This was SO GOOD and addictive I couldn’t put it down
June 23, 2025
Emily is very good at presenting an idea with nuance , makes you think while caring about the character’s motivations
April 3, 2026
Wow was I glad to finish this book! It centres around a single plot line/issue and though it tries to explore that from many angles it felt very repetitive after the first 200 pages or so. I found the characters very "samey" to the point where I couldn't remember who was who.
April 9, 2026
This book caught my eye because of the Tenby scene on the front cover - a place close to my heart. Though the story isn’t actually set in Tenby, it unfolds in a similar seaside town near Brighton. I found the plot a little one-dimensional in places and quite predictable (it wasn’t quite the mystery I was expecting), but I enjoyed it nonetheless. What stayed with me were the thoughtful themes around the dangers of gossip, herd mentality and trusting those closest to you with the messiest parts of yourselves - and how shame thrives when kept in secret.
July 12, 2025
A proper moral dilemma book.
Seb was obviously an idiot and paying for sex is still a massively contentious issue. The paying for it isn’t the reason I think Seb is stupid tho. It is the cheating aspect that affected me more.
However Anna took it to a whole new level of stupid. She made the whole issue about her and her views. I truly despised her. With her as a friend who needs enemies?
And then you have Rosie. I don’t like to blame the wife. But Seb did try to reignite there marriage and she didn’t make anything easy for him. It wasn’t a healthy relationship anyway.
This one had me talking to people about the controversy and hashing out the rights and wrongs. An excellent example of people who have differing views coming to blows.
Seb was obviously an idiot and paying for sex is still a massively contentious issue. The paying for it isn’t the reason I think Seb is stupid tho. It is the cheating aspect that affected me more.
However Anna took it to a whole new level of stupid. She made the whole issue about her and her views. I truly despised her. With her as a friend who needs enemies?
And then you have Rosie. I don’t like to blame the wife. But Seb did try to reignite there marriage and she didn’t make anything easy for him. It wasn’t a healthy relationship anyway.
This one had me talking to people about the controversy and hashing out the rights and wrongs. An excellent example of people who have differing views coming to blows.
June 16, 2025
3.5 stars.
I feel I should start my review with a bit of a disclaimer - I don’t think I chose wisely selecting this book; I feel this genre really isn’t for me anymore and perhaps that’s why I can’t award it higher marks. I just didn’t find the subject matter thrilling - secrets, lies, infidelity etc - I could say more but I’m avoiding spoilers! Despite being entirely readable, I just didn’t particularly care about the majority of characters (Abi and the teens were the only ones I had much respect for). I was definitely expecting deeper characterisation and more family dynamics than the domineering topic of sensational drama - but saying that, it’s not that I’ve exactly missed the point - this book does have some very acute moral lessons about being human, the dangers of slanderous gossip, along with society’s demands to know everything about our private lives and if we can/ should forgive one another, especially when one comes clean. Ultimately it’s a novel about the consequential far reaching damage of human mistakes and for that, I admired its success.
‘Private Lives’ would make an excellent tv drama, most likely to appear on channel 5 and be a huge success within its realm - but it’s not a piece of fiction that I’d personally rave about, or look to read any more by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC.
I feel I should start my review with a bit of a disclaimer - I don’t think I chose wisely selecting this book; I feel this genre really isn’t for me anymore and perhaps that’s why I can’t award it higher marks. I just didn’t find the subject matter thrilling - secrets, lies, infidelity etc - I could say more but I’m avoiding spoilers! Despite being entirely readable, I just didn’t particularly care about the majority of characters (Abi and the teens were the only ones I had much respect for). I was definitely expecting deeper characterisation and more family dynamics than the domineering topic of sensational drama - but saying that, it’s not that I’ve exactly missed the point - this book does have some very acute moral lessons about being human, the dangers of slanderous gossip, along with society’s demands to know everything about our private lives and if we can/ should forgive one another, especially when one comes clean. Ultimately it’s a novel about the consequential far reaching damage of human mistakes and for that, I admired its success.
‘Private Lives’ would make an excellent tv drama, most likely to appear on channel 5 and be a huge success within its realm - but it’s not a piece of fiction that I’d personally rave about, or look to read any more by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC.
June 19, 2025
I did end up liking this book but there were things, especially on that put me off. To me, it was obvious what the secret between Seb and Abi was and I thought Edwards took too long before revealing it. To my surprise, there was a further twist which I did not see coming and this was salacious and intriguing. From here, the book was a lot more like 'The Herd', it presented different viewpoints and was a thought provoking read. Sadly for me, I was already bored from the slow start and this did not save it.
On the positive side, the characters are good and I enjoyed the different viewpoints that Edwards presented.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK for an advance copy.
On the positive side, the characters are good and I enjoyed the different viewpoints that Edwards presented.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House UK for an advance copy.
April 17, 2025
After reading Emily’s debut novel The Herd in 2022, I have been patiently waiting (very patiently) for the next book, so when I saw this land in my TBR it went straight to the top.
There’s always that small niggling doubt, when you’ve loved a debut novel so much, whether the next book will love up to the hype, but ...wow! This was so worth waiting for.
I haven’t read such a thought provoking plot in quite a while. As a wife and mum, so much of the tale hit home and made me question ‘what if?’ and the whole book provided so much scope for discussion among other readers in my family and bookish friends.
The story is set in a small town of Waverley, in the South of England, that seems to give off more of a village life feel. The upper class couples, ladies who brunch, tennis clubs, etc.
Right at the beginning, you are introduced to the ‘couples’ that need to be known, the group that everyone wants to be connected to. But not everyone is quite how they present themselves.
Seb is the local head teacher, a job he has coveted for many years and absolutely loves. To the outside world, happily married to Rosie, but behind closed doors, things aren’t quite as perfect as they seem.
When a newcomer arrives, Seb’s past is brought right, slap bang into the future, and very quickly, his life starts to unravel around him.
Whilst the characters weren’t all that likeable, they were so strongly executed you could, from the very beginning, not only visualise them but feel the emotions they gave off and the atmosphere they created.
The pacing was absolutely perfect. It had a constant build up of tension that never petered out and had me turning the pages with no thought of what was going on around me.
The themes this book covered were not only gripping but interesting to explore and really got me thinking about subjects I’d never considered before.
I won’t go into any details of the plot as it will be a massive spoiler for anybody, but for anyone wanting to get lost in a book for a while, this is the one for you!
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for the ARC.
There’s always that small niggling doubt, when you’ve loved a debut novel so much, whether the next book will love up to the hype, but ...wow! This was so worth waiting for.
I haven’t read such a thought provoking plot in quite a while. As a wife and mum, so much of the tale hit home and made me question ‘what if?’ and the whole book provided so much scope for discussion among other readers in my family and bookish friends.
The story is set in a small town of Waverley, in the South of England, that seems to give off more of a village life feel. The upper class couples, ladies who brunch, tennis clubs, etc.
Right at the beginning, you are introduced to the ‘couples’ that need to be known, the group that everyone wants to be connected to. But not everyone is quite how they present themselves.
Seb is the local head teacher, a job he has coveted for many years and absolutely loves. To the outside world, happily married to Rosie, but behind closed doors, things aren’t quite as perfect as they seem.
When a newcomer arrives, Seb’s past is brought right, slap bang into the future, and very quickly, his life starts to unravel around him.
Whilst the characters weren’t all that likeable, they were so strongly executed you could, from the very beginning, not only visualise them but feel the emotions they gave off and the atmosphere they created.
The pacing was absolutely perfect. It had a constant build up of tension that never petered out and had me turning the pages with no thought of what was going on around me.
The themes this book covered were not only gripping but interesting to explore and really got me thinking about subjects I’d never considered before.
I won’t go into any details of the plot as it will be a massive spoiler for anybody, but for anyone wanting to get lost in a book for a while, this is the one for you!
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Random House UK, Transworld Publishers for the ARC.
August 6, 2025
Instantly forgettable- echo my sentiments for Edward's other novel 'The Herd' felt long and drawn out. Didn't care much about what was happening and didn't really get what the book was trying to achieve or portray. Bored throughout , found my mind wandering. 2 🌟
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