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The Expat Affair
An American expat‘s startling discovery plunges her into the glamorous but deadly world of Amsterdam’s diamond industry.
Following a nasty divorce, Rayna Dumont came to Amsterdam for a fresh start. She’s never been the type for a one-night stand, but this move is all about adventure, and Xander is handsome and successful and more than willing to go along for the ride. Until the morning after, when Rayna finds him dead on the shower floor and millions of dollars’ worth of diamonds missing from his safe.
From her lavish home in the heart of the city, Willow Prins is captivated by the news. Her husband is Xander’s former boss and heir to a diamond house, and the scandal strains their already-rocky marriage. As the house comes under scrutiny, Willow wonders if her life is about to implode—and how much of the blame she can place on Rayna. Soon, Willow and Rayna are dragged into the dark and dangerous underbelly of the diamond market, where they’ll have to uncover the truth to survive. Who killed Xander? Where are the missing diamonds? And who can you trust in a strange and unfamiliar city thousands of miles from home?
Following a nasty divorce, Rayna Dumont came to Amsterdam for a fresh start. She’s never been the type for a one-night stand, but this move is all about adventure, and Xander is handsome and successful and more than willing to go along for the ride. Until the morning after, when Rayna finds him dead on the shower floor and millions of dollars’ worth of diamonds missing from his safe.
From her lavish home in the heart of the city, Willow Prins is captivated by the news. Her husband is Xander’s former boss and heir to a diamond house, and the scandal strains their already-rocky marriage. As the house comes under scrutiny, Willow wonders if her life is about to implode—and how much of the blame she can place on Rayna. Soon, Willow and Rayna are dragged into the dark and dangerous underbelly of the diamond market, where they’ll have to uncover the truth to survive. Who killed Xander? Where are the missing diamonds? And who can you trust in a strange and unfamiliar city thousands of miles from home?
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 3, 2025
144 people are currently reading
14739 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Belle
19 books5,195 followersKimberly Belle is the USA Today and internationally bestselling author with over one million copies sold worldwide, with titles including The Paris Widow, The Marriage Lie, a Goodreads Choice Awards semifinalist for Best Mystery & Thriller, and the co-authored #1 Audible Original, Young Rich Widows. Kimberly’s novels have been optioned for film and television and selected by LibraryReads and Amazon & Apple Books Editors as Best Books of the Month, and the International Thriller Writers as nominee for best book of the year. She divides her time between Atlanta and Amsterdam.
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June 2, 2025
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2.66 Stars
I loved this Author's 2019 release Dear Wife, it was a five-star read for me. This one left me feeling disappointed. I was hoping for an exciting thriller in a cool foreign city, and while the premise was unique, the execution, unfortunately, left me feeling somewhat underwhelmed.
After a tumultuous divorce, Rayna goes to Amsterdam to start over. She meets Xander and has a one-time fling with him. When she wakes the next morning, Xander is dead in the shower, and his diamonds have been stolen. Then we have Willow, whose husband used to be Xander's boss. Willow and Rayna try to uncover the truth. I liked how the author portrayed expat living, and she did a great job of what it's like to live in Amsterdam.
The first half of the book is part one, and it was very slow going. I wanted a thriller at breakneck speed, and all I got was the droning on about the diamond industry. It was overly detailed and very repetitive. There is some tension and suspense, but not enough for my liking. Xander felt left out, so it was hard to care about him and why he died. I did like Rayna and Willow as characters in the beginning, but as the book moved forward, their lack of depth came out. Some of their choices had me rolling my eyes, and it made it hard to sympathize with them, especially Rayna.
Then there is part three, the ending. There were a couple of surprises along the way that I liked, and this book would be great for fans of lighter thrillers with a foreign setting. It doesn't deliver on its promise of excitement. Part One gets two stars, Part Two gets three stars, and Part Three gets three stars, so that's an average of 2.66, rounded up to three.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The Book Review Crew Blog
2.66 Stars
I loved this Author's 2019 release Dear Wife, it was a five-star read for me. This one left me feeling disappointed. I was hoping for an exciting thriller in a cool foreign city, and while the premise was unique, the execution, unfortunately, left me feeling somewhat underwhelmed.
After a tumultuous divorce, Rayna goes to Amsterdam to start over. She meets Xander and has a one-time fling with him. When she wakes the next morning, Xander is dead in the shower, and his diamonds have been stolen. Then we have Willow, whose husband used to be Xander's boss. Willow and Rayna try to uncover the truth. I liked how the author portrayed expat living, and she did a great job of what it's like to live in Amsterdam.
The first half of the book is part one, and it was very slow going. I wanted a thriller at breakneck speed, and all I got was the droning on about the diamond industry. It was overly detailed and very repetitive. There is some tension and suspense, but not enough for my liking. Xander felt left out, so it was hard to care about him and why he died. I did like Rayna and Willow as characters in the beginning, but as the book moved forward, their lack of depth came out. Some of their choices had me rolling my eyes, and it made it hard to sympathize with them, especially Rayna.
Then there is part three, the ending. There were a couple of surprises along the way that I liked, and this book would be great for fans of lighter thrillers with a foreign setting. It doesn't deliver on its promise of excitement. Part One gets two stars, Part Two gets three stars, and Part Three gets three stars, so that's an average of 2.66, rounded up to three.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
June 3, 2025
3.5 stars 💎
Diamonds may be a “girl’s best friend” but reading about the cut throat world of the diamond industry was not quite as enchanting…
The caption on ExPat Rayna Dumont’s Instagram page reads “Amsterdam looks good on me, don’t you think”? The photo was of her sitting at the foot of a bed, obviously naked below an expensive white Duvet, with only a necklace of white and yellow diamonds draped across her neck. She posted it, hoping her ex husband would see it-after a nasty divorce, having no idea that the photo would make her a SUSPECT in the MURDER of her one night stand, and the TARGET of Diamond thieves.
The morning after a very drunken night, Rayna finds Xander dead on the shower floor with millions of dollars worth of diamonds missing from his safe. Apparently, the thieves didn’t know she was asleep In the other room-but after that post- they do now.
Wrong Place, Wrong Time?
Meanwhile, another ExPat, Willow Prins is following the news closely. Her husband Thomas Prins is Xander’s former boss and heir to the House of Prins-Amsterdam’s most prestigious Diamond House-which rightfully owns the missing diamonds known as the “Cullinans”. These diamonds are ten of the most spectacular natural diamonds ever found-Diamonds that disappeared from the Prins vault last year when Xander was still employed there-Diamonds that were probably being recreated in a lab somewhere to be used in the underground world of the Diamond Industry.
The story unfolded in three parts. Part One (50%) dragged a bit for me as I learned a bit more than I cared to about the Diamond Industry, and the very unlikable Prins family. The pace of Part Two was better, as the lives of Rayna and Willow intersect. And, Part Three offered up the resolution and a few surprises.
This wasn’t a favorite Kimberly Belle book for me, but admittedly, the premise didn’t sound appealing when I read it, but I took a chance on it because I usually LOVE her work, and I even enjoyed “The Paris Widow” which sounded similar. But, it’s the kind of story that works better for me as an Adrenaline Thriller at the movie theater, than as a read.
I may end up being an outlier.
A buddy read with Mary Beth. Be sure to watch for her review to see if it’s a favorite for her!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank You to Park Row for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
Diamonds may be a “girl’s best friend” but reading about the cut throat world of the diamond industry was not quite as enchanting…
The caption on ExPat Rayna Dumont’s Instagram page reads “Amsterdam looks good on me, don’t you think”? The photo was of her sitting at the foot of a bed, obviously naked below an expensive white Duvet, with only a necklace of white and yellow diamonds draped across her neck. She posted it, hoping her ex husband would see it-after a nasty divorce, having no idea that the photo would make her a SUSPECT in the MURDER of her one night stand, and the TARGET of Diamond thieves.
The morning after a very drunken night, Rayna finds Xander dead on the shower floor with millions of dollars worth of diamonds missing from his safe. Apparently, the thieves didn’t know she was asleep In the other room-but after that post- they do now.
Wrong Place, Wrong Time?
Meanwhile, another ExPat, Willow Prins is following the news closely. Her husband Thomas Prins is Xander’s former boss and heir to the House of Prins-Amsterdam’s most prestigious Diamond House-which rightfully owns the missing diamonds known as the “Cullinans”. These diamonds are ten of the most spectacular natural diamonds ever found-Diamonds that disappeared from the Prins vault last year when Xander was still employed there-Diamonds that were probably being recreated in a lab somewhere to be used in the underground world of the Diamond Industry.
The story unfolded in three parts. Part One (50%) dragged a bit for me as I learned a bit more than I cared to about the Diamond Industry, and the very unlikable Prins family. The pace of Part Two was better, as the lives of Rayna and Willow intersect. And, Part Three offered up the resolution and a few surprises.
This wasn’t a favorite Kimberly Belle book for me, but admittedly, the premise didn’t sound appealing when I read it, but I took a chance on it because I usually LOVE her work, and I even enjoyed “The Paris Widow” which sounded similar. But, it’s the kind of story that works better for me as an Adrenaline Thriller at the movie theater, than as a read.
I may end up being an outlier.
A buddy read with Mary Beth. Be sure to watch for her review to see if it’s a favorite for her!
AVAILABLE NOW
Thank You to Park Row for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
April 28, 2025
Dear Kimberly Belle, you truly know how to keep readers on their toes with action-packed, gripping thrillers that leave them breathless—and thankfully, Expat Affair is yet another brilliant, unputdownable masterpiece that delivers a full adrenaline rush from start to finish.
The story follows two expat women whose lives become entangled after the shocking death of Xander—a highly influential businessman with deep knowledge of lab-created diamonds and the secrets of their trade.
Rayna, seeking a fresh start in the U.S. after catching her husband in bed with her best friend, scrapes by with low-paying travel writing gigs while sharing an apartment with her Dutch roommate, Ingrid—her only real friend. Determined to reinvent herself as the bold and adventurous "Rayna 2.0," she takes a chance on a date with the ultra-rich, charismatic Xander. But after a wild night of drinking, she wakes up in his hotel suite to find him dead—zipped up and choked in the bathtub. The worst part? She was passed out in the next room while the killer did their work. Now, not only is she the prime suspect, but she's also accused of stealing Xander’s priceless diamonds—especially since she drunkenly posted a photo of herself wearing one of his diamond necklaces… a necklace that has since vanished.
Willow, married into the powerful and pretentious Prins family after an unexpected pregnancy, is struggling through a strained marriage with Thomas—Xander’s former boss and the workaholic heir of a diamond empire. Meanwhile, Thomas’s ambitious sister, Fleur, is vying for her own place as CEO. After Xander’s murder, Willow starts receiving anonymous threats demanding the missing diamonds—or else her deepest secrets will be exposed, secrets that could destroy her marriage and everything she’s built. When she realizes Rayna is just an innocent bystander caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, she knows she has to find her before it’s too late. But as the two women get tangled in a deadly web of deceit, they are pulled deeper into the dangerous underworld of the illicit diamond trade—where every move could be their last.
Who killed Xander? Maybe it’s someone closer than they ever imagined—someone watching their every move.
Overall: A stunning, fast-paced, and electrifying thriller that you can easily devour in one sitting—I highly recommend it!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for providing a digital review copy of this unputdownable thriller in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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The story follows two expat women whose lives become entangled after the shocking death of Xander—a highly influential businessman with deep knowledge of lab-created diamonds and the secrets of their trade.
Rayna, seeking a fresh start in the U.S. after catching her husband in bed with her best friend, scrapes by with low-paying travel writing gigs while sharing an apartment with her Dutch roommate, Ingrid—her only real friend. Determined to reinvent herself as the bold and adventurous "Rayna 2.0," she takes a chance on a date with the ultra-rich, charismatic Xander. But after a wild night of drinking, she wakes up in his hotel suite to find him dead—zipped up and choked in the bathtub. The worst part? She was passed out in the next room while the killer did their work. Now, not only is she the prime suspect, but she's also accused of stealing Xander’s priceless diamonds—especially since she drunkenly posted a photo of herself wearing one of his diamond necklaces… a necklace that has since vanished.
Willow, married into the powerful and pretentious Prins family after an unexpected pregnancy, is struggling through a strained marriage with Thomas—Xander’s former boss and the workaholic heir of a diamond empire. Meanwhile, Thomas’s ambitious sister, Fleur, is vying for her own place as CEO. After Xander’s murder, Willow starts receiving anonymous threats demanding the missing diamonds—or else her deepest secrets will be exposed, secrets that could destroy her marriage and everything she’s built. When she realizes Rayna is just an innocent bystander caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, she knows she has to find her before it’s too late. But as the two women get tangled in a deadly web of deceit, they are pulled deeper into the dangerous underworld of the illicit diamond trade—where every move could be their last.
Who killed Xander? Maybe it’s someone closer than they ever imagined—someone watching their every move.
Overall: A stunning, fast-paced, and electrifying thriller that you can easily devour in one sitting—I highly recommend it!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for providing a digital review copy of this unputdownable thriller in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
medium blog
June 6, 2025
Excellent. Love when a thriller revolves around a theme I know nothing about, here lab-grown diamonds.
June 24, 2025
Phew. I’m not sure how Kimberly Belle manages to do it, but yet again she delivered a tale of unbridled suspense with The Expat Affair. This time, though, she added in a truly f***ed up family who were as unhinged as they were compelling. With a taunt, action-packed storyline and a setting that made the book come alive, I just couldn’t get enough of the plot or the characters as I ate up page after page. You see, not only was it perfect for fans of Kaira Rouda, but it also gave off a very Succession-like vibe. Cleverly plotted and compulsively readable, there was no chance of me putting it down. It was so unputdownable, in fact, that I hungrily gobbled it up in one single sitting despite a very late night of reading.
Narrated by Willow and Rayna via alternating dual POVs, the plot’s ratcheting pace introduced us to the allure of international intrigue as well as oodles of family dysfunction. You see, there was quite a bit going on in this dark game of cat-and-mouse. Deftly layered and with schemes and backstabbing galore, there was no end to the nefarious deeds or villains looking to even the score. Just be sure not to take anyone or anything at face value. But then, isn’t that the best kind of book? After all, thanks to the intricate plotting and many blind turns, there wasn’t a chance of me truly seeing through the reveals. Well, okay… Maybe I got a glimmer here or there, but nothing that could’ve given the whole enchilada away.
I do have to warn you, however, that this book felt like a definite departure from this author’s prior novels. Taking a deep dive into the world of diamonds during the slow burn first half and with fewer domestic thrills than I would’ve expected, it didn’t necessarily feel like a Kimberly Belle thriller. Just the same, it was still a rollicking good time and I had a blast riding shotgun with these two strong, smart, unforgettable heroines.
All said and done, with evocative writing that felt like a love letter to Amsterdam and a premise that was as original as it was addictive, it’s no surprise that I fell for this book head over heels. So despite the fact that it required a definite need to suspend all disbelief, I couldn’t have cared less if I tried. After all, these characters were everything I wanted and more. Add in the fresh look into the diamond industry and what it must feel like to be an American abroad, and Belle hit this one out of the park. So if you’re looking for a thriller that feels decidedly different from anything else on the shelves, this one is most definitely for you. So go on. Grab it now. I swear that it will keep you riveted too. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Rayna Dumont came to Amsterdam for a fresh start. She’s never been the type for a one-night stand, but this move is all about adventure, and Xander is handsome and successful and more than willing to go along for the ride. Until the morning after, when Rayna finds him dead, millions of dollars’ worth of diamonds missing from his safe.
Willow Prins is captivated by the news. Her husband is Xander’s former boss and heir to a diamond house, and the scandal strains their already-rocky marriage. As the house comes under scrutiny, Willow wonders how much of the blame she can place on Rayna. Soon, the two women are dragged into the dark underbelly of the diamond market, where they’ll have to uncover the truth to survive.
Who killed Xander? Where are the missing diamonds? And who can you trust in a city thousands of miles from home?
Thank you to Kimberly Belle and Park Row Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 3, 2025
Content warning: murder, threatening messages, stalking, getting roofied, kidnapping, mention of: infidelity
Narrated by Willow and Rayna via alternating dual POVs, the plot’s ratcheting pace introduced us to the allure of international intrigue as well as oodles of family dysfunction. You see, there was quite a bit going on in this dark game of cat-and-mouse. Deftly layered and with schemes and backstabbing galore, there was no end to the nefarious deeds or villains looking to even the score. Just be sure not to take anyone or anything at face value. But then, isn’t that the best kind of book? After all, thanks to the intricate plotting and many blind turns, there wasn’t a chance of me truly seeing through the reveals. Well, okay… Maybe I got a glimmer here or there, but nothing that could’ve given the whole enchilada away.
I do have to warn you, however, that this book felt like a definite departure from this author’s prior novels. Taking a deep dive into the world of diamonds during the slow burn first half and with fewer domestic thrills than I would’ve expected, it didn’t necessarily feel like a Kimberly Belle thriller. Just the same, it was still a rollicking good time and I had a blast riding shotgun with these two strong, smart, unforgettable heroines.
All said and done, with evocative writing that felt like a love letter to Amsterdam and a premise that was as original as it was addictive, it’s no surprise that I fell for this book head over heels. So despite the fact that it required a definite need to suspend all disbelief, I couldn’t have cared less if I tried. After all, these characters were everything I wanted and more. Add in the fresh look into the diamond industry and what it must feel like to be an American abroad, and Belle hit this one out of the park. So if you’re looking for a thriller that feels decidedly different from anything else on the shelves, this one is most definitely for you. So go on. Grab it now. I swear that it will keep you riveted too. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Rayna Dumont came to Amsterdam for a fresh start. She’s never been the type for a one-night stand, but this move is all about adventure, and Xander is handsome and successful and more than willing to go along for the ride. Until the morning after, when Rayna finds him dead, millions of dollars’ worth of diamonds missing from his safe.
Willow Prins is captivated by the news. Her husband is Xander’s former boss and heir to a diamond house, and the scandal strains their already-rocky marriage. As the house comes under scrutiny, Willow wonders how much of the blame she can place on Rayna. Soon, the two women are dragged into the dark underbelly of the diamond market, where they’ll have to uncover the truth to survive.
Who killed Xander? Where are the missing diamonds? And who can you trust in a city thousands of miles from home?
Thank you to Kimberly Belle and Park Row Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 3, 2025
Content warning: murder, threatening messages, stalking, getting roofied, kidnapping, mention of: infidelity
June 8, 2025
the setup…
Rayna Dumont is an American expatriate living in Amsterdam and working as a freelance travel writer. Licking her wounds following a brutal and scandalous divorce, she decides to throw caution to the wind one evening and go home with Xander, her Tinder date. She wakes the next morning to find him murdered in his penthouse apartment shower. She flees the building but later contacts the police. Unfortunately, murder wasn’t the only problem in that fancy apartment. See, Xander was a gemologist and millions of dollars worth of diamonds are missing. The prime suspect? Yeah, Rayna. There’s also another American expatriate in the mix, Willow Prins who is married to Thomas, the sixth-generation heir to the House of Prins, the family diamond dynasty who Xander worked for. She’s keenly interested in the investigation…and Rayna.
the heart of the story…
Get ready for whiplash as this story moves at a breakneck pace and the suspects shift just as quickly. Rayna and Willow provide the points of view and the contrasts couldn’t be more opposite. Rayna is an open book, trying desperately to clear her name and avoid those who want the diamonds they think she stole. Willow has an agenda but she’s cagey and a bit opaque. The Prins family is highly esteemed and masterful in the cutthroat world of the diamond industry but she’s definitely not an insider.
the narration
Jennifer Jill Araya was perfection as Willow, smoothly delivering a performance that fit her character. Marni Penning was equally skilled with her voice for Rayna. And both handled the host of secondary characters and the Dutch nicely.
the bottom line…
This was smart, intricately plotted and well researched. I was fully invested in Rayna and found myself trusting no one. Willow kept me off balance but that felt intentional. Lots of intrigue, subterfuge and treachery here, just what I was hoping for in this kind of story.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Rayna Dumont is an American expatriate living in Amsterdam and working as a freelance travel writer. Licking her wounds following a brutal and scandalous divorce, she decides to throw caution to the wind one evening and go home with Xander, her Tinder date. She wakes the next morning to find him murdered in his penthouse apartment shower. She flees the building but later contacts the police. Unfortunately, murder wasn’t the only problem in that fancy apartment. See, Xander was a gemologist and millions of dollars worth of diamonds are missing. The prime suspect? Yeah, Rayna. There’s also another American expatriate in the mix, Willow Prins who is married to Thomas, the sixth-generation heir to the House of Prins, the family diamond dynasty who Xander worked for. She’s keenly interested in the investigation…and Rayna.
the heart of the story…
Get ready for whiplash as this story moves at a breakneck pace and the suspects shift just as quickly. Rayna and Willow provide the points of view and the contrasts couldn’t be more opposite. Rayna is an open book, trying desperately to clear her name and avoid those who want the diamonds they think she stole. Willow has an agenda but she’s cagey and a bit opaque. The Prins family is highly esteemed and masterful in the cutthroat world of the diamond industry but she’s definitely not an insider.
the narration
Jennifer Jill Araya was perfection as Willow, smoothly delivering a performance that fit her character. Marni Penning was equally skilled with her voice for Rayna. And both handled the host of secondary characters and the Dutch nicely.
the bottom line…
This was smart, intricately plotted and well researched. I was fully invested in Rayna and found myself trusting no one. Willow kept me off balance but that felt intentional. Lots of intrigue, subterfuge and treachery here, just what I was hoping for in this kind of story.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
May 21, 2025
Rayna Dumont moves to Amsterdam from the USA for a fresh start following a messy divorce. She hooks up with Xander on a Tinder date and after a night of booze and the etcs, she wakes the next morning to discover his dead body in the shower. Obviously, she’s both shocked and terrified, especially when she believes the killer could still be there in Xander’s penthouse apartment, so she does a runner but once safe, she calls the Dutch police. Another American, Willow. Prins witnesses the arrival of the emergency services and listens to the gossip of the school gate mafia. Willow is married to Thomas Prins, the CEO of a multimillion diamond empire who, it transpires, Xander worked for. What is Willow‘s connection to Xander as it becomes apparent there is one? To add to the mystery of who kills Xander and why, it seems that millions of euros of diamonds are missing from his safe. Has Rayna been unbelievably unlucky to be in the wrong place at the wrong time or is she a patsy? A deadly game of cat and mouse ensues.
I really enjoy this latest novel from Kimberly Belle which is definitely a page turner for me with a fascinating focus on the diamond industry and a highly dysfunctional family in the uber rich Prins. Just because you’re rich doesn’t necessarily make you likeable and this bunch certainly aren’t, being entitled, devious backstabbers who I wouldn’t trust as far as I could throw them! Willow and her lovely son Sem stick out like sore thumbs. However, characters like that can make for a juicy read as there are so many nefarious deeds and multiple questions about who can be trusted.
I love the Amsterdam setting which is used to great effect in the storytelling, making it an atmospheric backdrop to the plot and it’s certainly action packed from beginning to end. There are numerous twists and turns some of which are predictable and others less so and it does get a bit convoluted towards the end. However, it is still very entertaining as there are numerous villains in this piece and it’s definitely dramatic.
Overall, I enjoy the diamond industry focus on this and whilst they’re not true blood diamonds here, the end result amounts to the same thing.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to the publishers for the much appreciated early copy and returning for an honest review.
I really enjoy this latest novel from Kimberly Belle which is definitely a page turner for me with a fascinating focus on the diamond industry and a highly dysfunctional family in the uber rich Prins. Just because you’re rich doesn’t necessarily make you likeable and this bunch certainly aren’t, being entitled, devious backstabbers who I wouldn’t trust as far as I could throw them! Willow and her lovely son Sem stick out like sore thumbs. However, characters like that can make for a juicy read as there are so many nefarious deeds and multiple questions about who can be trusted.
I love the Amsterdam setting which is used to great effect in the storytelling, making it an atmospheric backdrop to the plot and it’s certainly action packed from beginning to end. There are numerous twists and turns some of which are predictable and others less so and it does get a bit convoluted towards the end. However, it is still very entertaining as there are numerous villains in this piece and it’s definitely dramatic.
Overall, I enjoy the diamond industry focus on this and whilst they’re not true blood diamonds here, the end result amounts to the same thing.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to the publishers for the much appreciated early copy and returning for an honest review.
June 19, 2025
Intensely original, deftly layered, and packed with manipulative schemes and backstabbing galore! I just couldn’t get enough of the plot or the characters as I ate up page after page.
July 20, 2025
Rayna moved to Amsterdam after a tough divorce in the US. Willow is married to one of the Prins family, a leader in the diamond business. While Rayna is looking for a new beginning, Willow is concerned about the future for her son and her.
Rayna meets a hot guy online, they meet, and after an evening of drinking, she spends the night. She learns that Xander is in the diamond business and lives in a fabulous penthouse, and wakes in a good mood in the morning… until she finds Xander dead. In addition to the police questioning her role, there’s questions about what she heard and why the person who stole diamonds and killed Xander left her alive. When Rayna finds she’s being followed, she’s frightened but doesn’t know where to turn.
I enjoyed the intrigue around the theft and murder, but it’s hard to connect to the characters. While I found Rayna interesting, there’s very little emotional connection for any of these characters. While Willow is devoted to her son, every other relationship in the book seems disconnected and transactional. Maybe it’s partly intentional - highlighting the disconnect one can feel in a new country with a new language? It’s an interesting plot and I think the narration elevated my experience. It’s a solid 3-1/2, but I need to round down on this one.
Rayna meets a hot guy online, they meet, and after an evening of drinking, she spends the night. She learns that Xander is in the diamond business and lives in a fabulous penthouse, and wakes in a good mood in the morning… until she finds Xander dead. In addition to the police questioning her role, there’s questions about what she heard and why the person who stole diamonds and killed Xander left her alive. When Rayna finds she’s being followed, she’s frightened but doesn’t know where to turn.
I enjoyed the intrigue around the theft and murder, but it’s hard to connect to the characters. While I found Rayna interesting, there’s very little emotional connection for any of these characters. While Willow is devoted to her son, every other relationship in the book seems disconnected and transactional. Maybe it’s partly intentional - highlighting the disconnect one can feel in a new country with a new language? It’s an interesting plot and I think the narration elevated my experience. It’s a solid 3-1/2, but I need to round down on this one.
August 15, 2025
Eh, it was alright. Review up soon~ish
June 10, 2025
I love Kimberly Belle books and The Expat Affair was another absolute winner for me. Always dark and twisty, this one had the added bonus of being set in Amsterdam, a city that I loved when we visited many years ago now. Such a beautiful place and the author really did make you feel like you were there. I would love to go back one day.
This was a fast paced thrill ride from start to finish. American expat Rayna finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery after a drunken night with a diamond dealer. She soon had people following her, her flat ransacked and members of one of the countries richest family hunting her down. All she wanted was a new start after her divorce and now she is all over the press.
Very easy to get lost in the pages of this book, highly addictive and unpredictable.
Thanks so much to HTP, Park Row for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 17th.
This was a fast paced thrill ride from start to finish. American expat Rayna finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery after a drunken night with a diamond dealer. She soon had people following her, her flat ransacked and members of one of the countries richest family hunting her down. All she wanted was a new start after her divorce and now she is all over the press.
Very easy to get lost in the pages of this book, highly addictive and unpredictable.
Thanks so much to HTP, Park Row for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 17th.
November 3, 2025
4+ Stars
The setting for this book is Amsterdam.
I remember getting off the metro from Paris and entering a 60s-like psychedelic world.
I toured Amsterdam on my own and loved it!
This story is complex and unlike any other one I’ve read by Kimberly Belle.
Its primary focus involves diamonds from one particular diamond house and the family members.
Are diamonds really a girl’s best friend?
Can a person trust a diamond to be a real gem from the earth or could it actually a lab-made diamond?
Who can a person trust?
Their spouse?
Their sibling?
Their parents?
Their friends?
Their employees?
Oh, so many questions.
This book taught me some things about diamonds, showed me life in Amsterdam (which brought back some amazing memories), showed me how some families act, and included intrigue,
mystery, dislike and unconditional love.
I highly recommend The Expat Affair!
The setting for this book is Amsterdam.
I remember getting off the metro from Paris and entering a 60s-like psychedelic world.
I toured Amsterdam on my own and loved it!
This story is complex and unlike any other one I’ve read by Kimberly Belle.
Its primary focus involves diamonds from one particular diamond house and the family members.
Are diamonds really a girl’s best friend?
Can a person trust a diamond to be a real gem from the earth or could it actually a lab-made diamond?
Who can a person trust?
Their spouse?
Their sibling?
Their parents?
Their friends?
Their employees?
Oh, so many questions.
This book taught me some things about diamonds, showed me life in Amsterdam (which brought back some amazing memories), showed me how some families act, and included intrigue,
mystery, dislike and unconditional love.
I highly recommend The Expat Affair!
May 27, 2025
I love when an author can still come up with fresh and exciting premises after several books, and K. Belle manages to do this time and time again. In this story, two women are connected to the murder of Xander, so you get two POVs and I was equally invested in both. The Amsterdam setting was a nice change from my usual reads, and the storyline revolving around the diamond market brought an interesting perspective and added excitement. The plot itself was pretty twisty, some twists were predictable, while others were fun surprises. Grab this if you’re looking for a fast paced and addictive thriller with an exciting plot.
May 15, 2025
*audiobook
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨ (3.5/5)
“Do you know how much smarter I am in English?!”
I did this one as an audiobook, and the audio narrator was great,perfect for this book.
The book was entertaining from start to finish. It focused a lot on diamonds, whether they’re from the mines or created in labs and a lot of family drama.
I wouldn’t say it’s very memorable, but the ending sure was. It was surprisingly refreshing, I really liked it, but felt like it just took a really long time to the end of this book.
Overall, I liked it and I’m not mad that I checked it out. I would read another book by this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨ (3.5/5)
“Do you know how much smarter I am in English?!”
I did this one as an audiobook, and the audio narrator was great,perfect for this book.
The book was entertaining from start to finish. It focused a lot on diamonds, whether they’re from the mines or created in labs and a lot of family drama.
I wouldn’t say it’s very memorable, but the ending sure was. It was surprisingly refreshing, I really liked it, but felt like it just took a really long time to the end of this book.
Overall, I liked it and I’m not mad that I checked it out. I would read another book by this author.
June 10, 2025
Diamonds are a girl's best friend except when they are connecting you to a murder.
Expat Rayna had a one-night stand with Xander, and she found him brutally murdered in the shower and heard nothing. The police don't believe her.
Xander works for a diamond company - was that the motive because all the diamonds were gone including the necklace Rayna took a photo with.
Then we meet Willow whose husband also works at the same diamond company and has something going on with Xander too..
The family is ruthless and don’t care about Xander’s death. They are more worried about their diamonds.
Rayna may be in more danger than she realizes - Willow wants to warn her, but how?
Expat Affair was difficult to follow and got bogged down with so much diamond information that I lost interest. 3/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Expat Rayna had a one-night stand with Xander, and she found him brutally murdered in the shower and heard nothing. The police don't believe her.
Xander works for a diamond company - was that the motive because all the diamonds were gone including the necklace Rayna took a photo with.
Then we meet Willow whose husband also works at the same diamond company and has something going on with Xander too..
The family is ruthless and don’t care about Xander’s death. They are more worried about their diamonds.
Rayna may be in more danger than she realizes - Willow wants to warn her, but how?
Expat Affair was difficult to follow and got bogged down with so much diamond information that I lost interest. 3/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 9, 2025
ALC review • pub date 06.03.25
narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya + Marni Penning
length: 10h 34min
This book had a really strong start! With a beautiful setting in Amsterdam - Rayna wakes up in a heavenly penthouse after a night with a tinder date, Xander. She is blissfully unaware of the dead body in the room next to her. Told in dual POV of Rayna and Willow - the wife of one of the largest diamond houses in the area - who employed Xander.
The story quickly turned into so. many. details about diamonds that was a bit repetitive. I honestly am not sure I would have finished the e-arc alone, having the audio with great narrators saved it for me. I’m still a big fan of Belle’s books and will continue to read them! This one just wasn’t a favorite.
book ⭐️⭐️⭐️
narrators ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HTP books / Park Row Books for my ARC and Harlequin Audio for my ALC.
narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya + Marni Penning
length: 10h 34min
This book had a really strong start! With a beautiful setting in Amsterdam - Rayna wakes up in a heavenly penthouse after a night with a tinder date, Xander. She is blissfully unaware of the dead body in the room next to her. Told in dual POV of Rayna and Willow - the wife of one of the largest diamond houses in the area - who employed Xander.
The story quickly turned into so. many. details about diamonds that was a bit repetitive. I honestly am not sure I would have finished the e-arc alone, having the audio with great narrators saved it for me. I’m still a big fan of Belle’s books and will continue to read them! This one just wasn’t a favorite.
book ⭐️⭐️⭐️
narrators ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to HTP books / Park Row Books for my ARC and Harlequin Audio for my ALC.
May 12, 2025
Remind me to to never tumble into bed with a hot diamond dealer, in a foreign country. Who am I kidding? I’d do exactly what Rayna did. And when I find his dead body, I’d run too!! The problem is, Rayna took picture proof she was with the guy, and posted it to social media. Yeah, im not doing that..
This book is a fast paced who dun it. You will be sucked in by the first chapter ( where the murder happens), and after that it’s the diamonds that keep you around. Rayna had no clue she was getting into bed with the whole Prin Diamond House family. Omfg they are a mess.
I really liked this book. I finished it in one sitting, since it was so fast moving. There are some juicy twists that will shock you, and lots of characters to hate. My idea of a perfect thriller
This book is a fast paced who dun it. You will be sucked in by the first chapter ( where the murder happens), and after that it’s the diamonds that keep you around. Rayna had no clue she was getting into bed with the whole Prin Diamond House family. Omfg they are a mess.
I really liked this book. I finished it in one sitting, since it was so fast moving. There are some juicy twists that will shock you, and lots of characters to hate. My idea of a perfect thriller
March 20, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for allowing me a chance to review the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
If Kimberly Belle writes it, I’m going to read it.
Two expat women, a murder, missing diamonds, and lots of scandal. Kimberly is the queen of gripping thrillers and this one kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. Highly recommend!
If Kimberly Belle writes it, I’m going to read it.
Two expat women, a murder, missing diamonds, and lots of scandal. Kimberly is the queen of gripping thrillers and this one kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. Highly recommend!
May 25, 2025
In The Expat Affair by Kimberly Belle, Rayna Dumont heads to Amsterdam for a fresh start after a tough divorce—and a one-night stand with charming, successful Xander seems like the perfect way to kick things off. But when she finds him dead the next morning and his diamonds gone, things spiral fast. Across the city, Willow Prins watches the scandal unfold, with Xander’s death threatening to crack her already fragile marriage to the heir of a diamond empire. Soon, Willow and Rayna are pulled into Amsterdam’s dark diamond underworld, where uncovering the truth is their only chance at survival. I absolutely loved this book—the suspense was nonstop from the wild opening scene to the explosive ending. Amsterdam made for such a stunning and atmospheric backdrop. The twists had me hooked and I was not expecting them throughout! I really enjoyed how the story flipped between Rayna and Willow’s perspectives. The audio was fantastic too—the narrator brought everything to life so well! I totally recommend going the audiobook route with this one. Thank you to HTP The Hive, Park Row and the author for both an ARC and ALC of this book for a review!
May 25, 2025
THE EXPAT AFFAIR BY KIMBERLY BELLE.
Release date set for the 3rd of June 2025.
I thought this was an interesting story.
Love the cover for this one.
It held my attention throughout.
This is my first book by Kimberly and I'll be reading others.
Release date set for the 3rd of June 2025.
I thought this was an interesting story.
Love the cover for this one.
It held my attention throughout.
This is my first book by Kimberly and I'll be reading others.
May 26, 2025
If you hand me a thriller and set it in a city like Amsterdam, I’m in. But make it about stolen diamonds, scandalous affairs, and two women caught in a web of secrets? I’m obsessed.
There’s something about international thrillers that just hits different and this one had it all, murder, glittering diamonds, lies, and two women unraveling secrets that could shatter everything. I was completely hooked on Rayna and Willow’s alternating perspectives and loved how their stories tangled together in unexpected ways..
If you’re into twisty domestic thrillers with an unforgettable setting and fats paced suspense, this one’s for you. 💎
There’s something about international thrillers that just hits different and this one had it all, murder, glittering diamonds, lies, and two women unraveling secrets that could shatter everything. I was completely hooked on Rayna and Willow’s alternating perspectives and loved how their stories tangled together in unexpected ways..
If you’re into twisty domestic thrillers with an unforgettable setting and fats paced suspense, this one’s for you. 💎
May 26, 2025
Whenever I read a Kimberly Belle novel, I feel as though she’s transported me right into the heart of the magnificent setting. This time, she took me on a journey through Amsterdam, and with each page, I imagined riding my bike through the canal-lined streets (and always looking over my shoulder).
Rayna is a young, divorced woman from the U.S. looking for a fresh start. She meets a man online and spends the night at his luxurious apartment, but wakes up to a gruesome scene. He’s dead and millions of dollars worth of diamonds are gone. All eyes are on her and she doesn’t know who to trust. While out on a run, she meets a woman named Willow, also from the U.S., who befriends her but she doesn’t know this woman’s connection to the dead man or the diamonds.
This was an intense, fast-paced thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat! I was fascinated by the dynamics of the diamond industry and market for quality lab-grown replicas! There were some fabulous twists that upended my predictions! I highly recommend this adventurous, suspenseful, and entertaining book!
Thank you Harlequin Trade/Park Row for the gifted arc!
Rayna is a young, divorced woman from the U.S. looking for a fresh start. She meets a man online and spends the night at his luxurious apartment, but wakes up to a gruesome scene. He’s dead and millions of dollars worth of diamonds are gone. All eyes are on her and she doesn’t know who to trust. While out on a run, she meets a woman named Willow, also from the U.S., who befriends her but she doesn’t know this woman’s connection to the dead man or the diamonds.
This was an intense, fast-paced thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat! I was fascinated by the dynamics of the diamond industry and market for quality lab-grown replicas! There were some fabulous twists that upended my predictions! I highly recommend this adventurous, suspenseful, and entertaining book!
Thank you Harlequin Trade/Park Row for the gifted arc!
May 6, 2025
The Expat Affair
By: Kimberly Belle
Pub Date: June 3, 2025
Publisher: Park Row
5💎💎💎💎💎
This novel set in Amsterdam is ONE HECK of fun one!
💎
Who says divorce can’t lead to a fun ADVENTURE?
💎
DIAMONDS, MURDER, KIDNAPPING and Amsterdam!!!
💎
Rayna is heading to Amsterdam for a new lease on life. She is not one to jump into things but when she meets Xander, a handsome stranger she is open to the possibility and after a steamy night she wakes up to find him dead. He is not only dead, but the scene is set for murder!
💎
The police discover he also had diamonds that were stolen.
💎
We follow both Rayna and Willow. Willow has connections to a family jewelry business with dangerous connections. This novel is fast paced and takes you into a world that will ENTICE you, but also make you wary of who you let into your life. WAY TO GO Bell!
By: Kimberly Belle
Pub Date: June 3, 2025
Publisher: Park Row
5💎💎💎💎💎
This novel set in Amsterdam is ONE HECK of fun one!
💎
Who says divorce can’t lead to a fun ADVENTURE?
💎
DIAMONDS, MURDER, KIDNAPPING and Amsterdam!!!
💎
Rayna is heading to Amsterdam for a new lease on life. She is not one to jump into things but when she meets Xander, a handsome stranger she is open to the possibility and after a steamy night she wakes up to find him dead. He is not only dead, but the scene is set for murder!
💎
The police discover he also had diamonds that were stolen.
💎
We follow both Rayna and Willow. Willow has connections to a family jewelry business with dangerous connections. This novel is fast paced and takes you into a world that will ENTICE you, but also make you wary of who you let into your life. WAY TO GO Bell!
June 18, 2025
Definitely one of my favorite authors. I always want to read a Kimberly Belle book. And I'm never disappointed.
I listened to the audio version of this one. The narrators did a great job. Kept me entertained and wanting more.
This story is set in Amsterdam. It's about two women. One married to a very rich man. One who recently moved to Amsterdam after a divorce. This is about how diamonds may not always be a girls best friend....
When Rayna wakes to find a body in the shower she runs. Of course she does. Wouldn't you. It was just a night of drinking and meaningless sex. A man she met on Tinder. Xander works for a very rich family. He also knows how to make or grow diamonds. Perfect diamonds. Diamonds that you can't tell from the real thing. Could that have gotten him killed? What does Rayna know?
Willow is married to Thomas Prins. Thomas Prins is the CEO of the diamond company. Willow has many secrets. But would she have had reason to kill Xander. Yes they kind of had a fling. Sorta of. Yes she has kept something from her husband. But he has secrets too. Maybe he is the killer. Or possibly it's his sister Fleur. She's angry at Thomas but is she angry enough to do this?
A story of an unlikely friendship. A family who seem to only care about money and standing. Someone either killed or had Xander killed. But could it have been one of the Prins? And the diamonds. Are they fake or the real thing?
I enjoyed this book from start to finish. I loved the characters. I did figure out who the stalker was but that was ok. It didn't take away from the story at all. I didn't trust anyone they were all suspects to me. lol This story kept me guessing about some things though. Kept me turning the pages all the way. There was a secret unveiled that I didn't see coming and was so glad of the way it played out. I can't tell you what it is though. Just know the story ends good.
Kimberly Belle always delivers for me. Well written and edge of your seat thrills. Family drama. A few lies and a murder. What more do you need? It's one I do highly recommend.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC.
I listened to the audio version of this one. The narrators did a great job. Kept me entertained and wanting more.
This story is set in Amsterdam. It's about two women. One married to a very rich man. One who recently moved to Amsterdam after a divorce. This is about how diamonds may not always be a girls best friend....
When Rayna wakes to find a body in the shower she runs. Of course she does. Wouldn't you. It was just a night of drinking and meaningless sex. A man she met on Tinder. Xander works for a very rich family. He also knows how to make or grow diamonds. Perfect diamonds. Diamonds that you can't tell from the real thing. Could that have gotten him killed? What does Rayna know?
Willow is married to Thomas Prins. Thomas Prins is the CEO of the diamond company. Willow has many secrets. But would she have had reason to kill Xander. Yes they kind of had a fling. Sorta of. Yes she has kept something from her husband. But he has secrets too. Maybe he is the killer. Or possibly it's his sister Fleur. She's angry at Thomas but is she angry enough to do this?
A story of an unlikely friendship. A family who seem to only care about money and standing. Someone either killed or had Xander killed. But could it have been one of the Prins? And the diamonds. Are they fake or the real thing?
I enjoyed this book from start to finish. I loved the characters. I did figure out who the stalker was but that was ok. It didn't take away from the story at all. I didn't trust anyone they were all suspects to me. lol This story kept me guessing about some things though. Kept me turning the pages all the way. There was a secret unveiled that I didn't see coming and was so glad of the way it played out. I can't tell you what it is though. Just know the story ends good.
Kimberly Belle always delivers for me. Well written and edge of your seat thrills. Family drama. A few lies and a murder. What more do you need? It's one I do highly recommend.
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC.
May 30, 2025
This book was SO freaking good! I'd have to say it's my favorite Kimberly Belle book so far!🩷
Rayna Dumont just went through a nasty divorce and decided to start over in Amsterdam. She's usually not the one-night-stand type, but this "new" Rayna is all about adventure. She meets Xander on Tinder, they get totally wasted, and she wakes up to find him dead in the shower, finger chopped off! She has no clue what happened, but she posted a picture online wearing a diamond necklace that's now gone, along with other diamonds from his safe.
Willow Prin, whose husband, Thomas was Xander's former boss and heir to a diamond house, is troubled by the death. It's causing a huge scandal! The whole company and family are under the microscope. What secrets are they hiding? Willow feels a connection with Rayna and thinks Rayna's in danger. Who killed Xander and why? Can Willow warn Rayna before she's next?
Told in the POV of Rayna and Willow, this book was highly entertaining! It was totally gripping, fast-paced, addictive, and unputdownable! I binged it in one sitting! It was suspenseful and the mystery was intriguing! The twists and turns were shocking! I was completely surprised by the turn of events! I found the focus on the diamond industry fascinating and I absolutely adored the setting of Amsterdam! This book definitely made me want to go there sooner rather than later. I think this would be the perfect book to take on vacation with you. I enjoyed SO much and HIGHLY recommend it!🩷
Rayna Dumont just went through a nasty divorce and decided to start over in Amsterdam. She's usually not the one-night-stand type, but this "new" Rayna is all about adventure. She meets Xander on Tinder, they get totally wasted, and she wakes up to find him dead in the shower, finger chopped off! She has no clue what happened, but she posted a picture online wearing a diamond necklace that's now gone, along with other diamonds from his safe.
Willow Prin, whose husband, Thomas was Xander's former boss and heir to a diamond house, is troubled by the death. It's causing a huge scandal! The whole company and family are under the microscope. What secrets are they hiding? Willow feels a connection with Rayna and thinks Rayna's in danger. Who killed Xander and why? Can Willow warn Rayna before she's next?
Told in the POV of Rayna and Willow, this book was highly entertaining! It was totally gripping, fast-paced, addictive, and unputdownable! I binged it in one sitting! It was suspenseful and the mystery was intriguing! The twists and turns were shocking! I was completely surprised by the turn of events! I found the focus on the diamond industry fascinating and I absolutely adored the setting of Amsterdam! This book definitely made me want to go there sooner rather than later. I think this would be the perfect book to take on vacation with you. I enjoyed SO much and HIGHLY recommend it!🩷
June 4, 2025
Enjoyed this unique story! When Rayna wakes up from a steamy night with her fling the handsome Xander, she is completely unaware that he has been murd3red sometime between their last night rendezvous & this morning. And then there’s Willow, the wife of Xander’s ex boss and both of these ladies are thrown into a chaotic world of diamond thieves, criminals and corruption.
What enjoyed most…
• The Dual narration for Rayna and Willow’s characters! The 2 narrators did a phenomenal job bringing life to these characters.
• Storyline - I haven’t read many books about missing diamonds, but I enjoyed diving into this world.
Overall a good read that was very enjoyable & I can’t stress how great the narration was in the audiobook. Thank you Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
What enjoyed most…
• The Dual narration for Rayna and Willow’s characters! The 2 narrators did a phenomenal job bringing life to these characters.
• Storyline - I haven’t read many books about missing diamonds, but I enjoyed diving into this world.
Overall a good read that was very enjoyable & I can’t stress how great the narration was in the audiobook. Thank you Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
April 6, 2025
Kimberly Belle has quickly become a go-to author for me. She’s so good at writing twisty, pulse-pounding thrillers that grip you from the very first page. Her book, The Paris Widow, was one of my favorite books last year, so I was pumped to get the chance to read her newest book, The Expat Affair, early.
This one takes place in the diamond trade industry in Amsterdam, and the story begins with a brutal murder. A couple of the twists were predictable, but my jaw hit the floor a couple times, too. It’s fast paced, and could easily be read in one sitting. There were a couple times I had to put it down to go be an adult and I was sorely disappointed I couldn’t keep reading.
I loved this book, and highly recommend checking it out when it hits shelves on June 3rd! I’ll definitely be snagging a physical copy for my own shelves.
Big thanks to @netgalley, @htp_hive, and @htpbooks for this #gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This one takes place in the diamond trade industry in Amsterdam, and the story begins with a brutal murder. A couple of the twists were predictable, but my jaw hit the floor a couple times, too. It’s fast paced, and could easily be read in one sitting. There were a couple times I had to put it down to go be an adult and I was sorely disappointed I couldn’t keep reading.
I loved this book, and highly recommend checking it out when it hits shelves on June 3rd! I’ll definitely be snagging a physical copy for my own shelves.
Big thanks to @netgalley, @htp_hive, and @htpbooks for this #gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 11, 2025
I've never been to Amsterdam, but after reading The Expat Affair I feel as if I took a mini vacation! I loved all the vivid, atmospheric details - the people, weather, and architecture - as they set the scene and made me feel like I was there, dodging rain drops and bicycles. The book hooked me immediately with Rayna finding Xander dead on his shower floor. Rayna, and all of Amsterdam, will soon learn there are missing diamonds from Xander's safe. A lot of missing diamonds. The story is told from Rayna and Willow's POVs. Willow is married to Xander's boss. Well, former boss. Intriguing, eh? Their stories intertwine as they each try to find out who killed Xander. This is my first Kimberly Belle book and I really liked her writing style. I could not read the book fast enough as I had to learn the truth. I liked the cast of strong women in this story.
June 17, 2025
Kimberly Belle's latest psychological thriller, The Expat Affair, transforms Amsterdam's picturesque canals and glittering diamond houses into a treacherous maze where one wrong turn can prove fatal. This meticulously crafted novel weaves together the stories of two American expats whose lives collide in the most devastating way possible, creating a narrative that's as brilliant and multifaceted as the diamonds at its center.
A Night That Changes Everything
The story opens with Rayna Dumont awakening in an unfamiliar bed beside a very familiar nightmare. What was supposed to be an adventurous one-night stand with the charming Xander van der Vos becomes a waking horror when she discovers his lifeless body in the shower, his finger severed, and millions of dollars worth of diamonds missing from his safe. Belle masterfully captures that disorienting moment between sleep and consciousness, making readers feel Rayna's confusion and growing terror as reality crashes down upon her.
Across the city, Willow Prins—wife to diamond heir Thomas Prins—watches the scandal unfold from her gilded cage, simultaneously fascinated and horrified by the news. When she realizes the victim is her husband's former associate, her already crumbling marriage faces a new kind of scrutiny that threatens to expose secrets she's desperately tried to keep buried.
Character Development: Diamonds Under Pressure
Belle's characterization proves exceptional, particularly in her portrayal of two women struggling to find their footing in a foreign land. Rayna emerges as more than just a convenient suspect; she's a complex woman reinventing herself after a devastating divorce, seeking adventure but finding herself trapped in a nightmare that threatens to destroy the new life she's building. Her vulnerability feels authentic without making her helpless, and her gradual transformation from victim to survivor provides the novel's emotional backbone.
Willow presents an equally compelling figure—a woman who appears to have everything but possesses nothing of real value. Belle explores the psychological toll of living within the diamond dynasty's expectations while maintaining a marriage that's become as cold and hard as the stones her husband's family peddles. Her growing friendship with Rayna becomes the heart of the novel, two women finding strength in each other when their worlds threaten to collapse.
The supporting cast, particularly the menacing Lars and the enigmatic Fleur Prins, adds layers of complexity that keep readers guessing about true motives and hidden agendas. Belle avoids the trap of creating one-dimensional villains, instead crafting characters whose actions stem from believable motivations, even when those actions prove morally questionable.
Amsterdam as Character
Belle's intimate knowledge of Amsterdam elevates the setting beyond mere backdrop to become an essential character in its own right. Having lived in the Netherlands herself, she captures both the city's enchanting beauty and its underlying dangers with remarkable authenticity. From the exclusive diamond district to the working-class neighborhoods, from elegant canal houses to industrial warehouses, Amsterdam pulses with life throughout the narrative.
The author's attention to cultural details—the challenges of navigating Dutch bureaucracy, the social hierarchies within expat communities, the linguistic barriers that can isolate and expose—adds authenticity that grounds the thriller elements in recognizable reality. This isn't just any international setting; it's a fully realized world where readers can almost feel the damp air from the canals and hear the clatter of bicycles on cobblestones.
Narrative Structure: A Carefully Cut Gem
Belle employs a dual perspective structure that alternates between Rayna and Willow, a technique she's perfected in previous novels like The Marriage Lie and Dear Wife. This approach allows her to build suspense while gradually revealing the connections between seemingly separate storylines. The pacing accelerates steadily, with each chapter ending on notes that compel immediate continuation.
The three-part structure mirrors the stages of diamond cutting—the rough discovery, the careful planning, and the final polishing that reveals the stone's true nature. Part One establishes the deadly foundation, Part Two builds the complex web of relationships and deceptions, and Part Three brings everything to a explosive climax that redefines everything readers thought they understood.
Writing Style: Polished Prose with Underlying Tension
Belle's prose style has evolved considerably since her earlier works like The Last Breath and The Ones We Trust. Her writing in The Expat Affair demonstrates increased confidence and sophistication, balancing accessible storytelling with literary depth. She has a particular gift for capturing the internal voices of women under extreme pressure, making their fears, doubts, and desperate hopes feel immediate and visceral.
The dialogue sparkles with authenticity, particularly in the exchanges between Rayna and Willow as their unlikely friendship develops. Belle captures the way women communicate—the subtext beneath seemingly casual conversations, the way trust builds gradually through shared vulnerabilities, the fierce loyalty that can develop between women facing similar challenges.
Her descriptions of the diamond trade provide fascinating insights without overwhelming the narrative flow. The technical details about diamond cutting, certification, and the black market trade enhance the story's authenticity while serving the plot's needs.
Strengths That Shine
The Expat Affair succeeds brilliantly in several key areas:
Authentic International Setting: Belle's firsthand knowledge of Amsterdam creates a vivid, believable backdrop that enhances rather than merely decorates the story
Complex Female Friendship: The relationship between Rayna and Willow develops organically, avoiding the tired trope of women as natural enemies
Intricate Plot Construction: Multiple storylines weave together seamlessly, with revelations that feel both surprising and inevitable
Cultural Authenticity: The expat experience feels genuine, capturing both the excitement and isolation of starting over in a foreign country
Strong Emotional Core: Beneath the thriller elements lies a thoughtful exploration of identity, belonging, and the courage required to start over
Areas for Improvement
While The Expat Affair largely succeeds, it's not without minor flaws:
The novel's middle section occasionally slows as Belle establishes the complex relationships within the Prins family dynasty. Some readers might find the extensive cast of secondary characters initially difficult to track, though most serve important purposes in the final act.
Certain plot conveniences stretch credibility slightly—particularly some of the more elaborate deceptions that require precise timing and cooperation. However, Belle's skilled writing generally carries readers past these moments without breaking the spell.
The resolution, while satisfying, feels slightly rushed given the careful buildup. A few more pages exploring the aftermath of the dramatic climax would have provided better emotional closure for such well-developed characters.
Thematic Depth
Beyond its surface thrills, The Expat Affair explores themes of reinvention, trust, and the price of privilege. Belle examines how people shed old identities when circumstances force change, whether through divorce, immigration, or moral awakening. The diamond industry serves as an effective metaphor for the way beautiful surfaces can conceal dark truths.
The novel also thoughtfully addresses issues of class and power, particularly through Willow's perspective as someone who married into wealth but never quite belongs. Belle avoids simplistic judgments, instead exploring the psychological costs of living within systems that value appearance over authenticity.
Final Verdict
The Expat Affair delivers everything readers expect from a Kimberly Belle thriller while pushing her storytelling into new territory. The authentic Amsterdam setting, complex female characters, and intricate plot construction create a reading experience that's both entertaining and emotionally satisfying. While not perfect, it represents a significant achievement that should satisfy longtime fans while attracting new readers to Belle's increasingly impressive body of work.
The novel succeeds as both a page-turning thriller and a thoughtful exploration of identity and belonging in an increasingly connected yet alienating world. Belle has crafted a story that glitters with all the surface appeal of the diamonds at its center while possessing the depth and complexity that transform good thrillers into memorable ones.
A Night That Changes Everything
The story opens with Rayna Dumont awakening in an unfamiliar bed beside a very familiar nightmare. What was supposed to be an adventurous one-night stand with the charming Xander van der Vos becomes a waking horror when she discovers his lifeless body in the shower, his finger severed, and millions of dollars worth of diamonds missing from his safe. Belle masterfully captures that disorienting moment between sleep and consciousness, making readers feel Rayna's confusion and growing terror as reality crashes down upon her.
Across the city, Willow Prins—wife to diamond heir Thomas Prins—watches the scandal unfold from her gilded cage, simultaneously fascinated and horrified by the news. When she realizes the victim is her husband's former associate, her already crumbling marriage faces a new kind of scrutiny that threatens to expose secrets she's desperately tried to keep buried.
Character Development: Diamonds Under Pressure
Belle's characterization proves exceptional, particularly in her portrayal of two women struggling to find their footing in a foreign land. Rayna emerges as more than just a convenient suspect; she's a complex woman reinventing herself after a devastating divorce, seeking adventure but finding herself trapped in a nightmare that threatens to destroy the new life she's building. Her vulnerability feels authentic without making her helpless, and her gradual transformation from victim to survivor provides the novel's emotional backbone.
Willow presents an equally compelling figure—a woman who appears to have everything but possesses nothing of real value. Belle explores the psychological toll of living within the diamond dynasty's expectations while maintaining a marriage that's become as cold and hard as the stones her husband's family peddles. Her growing friendship with Rayna becomes the heart of the novel, two women finding strength in each other when their worlds threaten to collapse.
The supporting cast, particularly the menacing Lars and the enigmatic Fleur Prins, adds layers of complexity that keep readers guessing about true motives and hidden agendas. Belle avoids the trap of creating one-dimensional villains, instead crafting characters whose actions stem from believable motivations, even when those actions prove morally questionable.
Amsterdam as Character
Belle's intimate knowledge of Amsterdam elevates the setting beyond mere backdrop to become an essential character in its own right. Having lived in the Netherlands herself, she captures both the city's enchanting beauty and its underlying dangers with remarkable authenticity. From the exclusive diamond district to the working-class neighborhoods, from elegant canal houses to industrial warehouses, Amsterdam pulses with life throughout the narrative.
The author's attention to cultural details—the challenges of navigating Dutch bureaucracy, the social hierarchies within expat communities, the linguistic barriers that can isolate and expose—adds authenticity that grounds the thriller elements in recognizable reality. This isn't just any international setting; it's a fully realized world where readers can almost feel the damp air from the canals and hear the clatter of bicycles on cobblestones.
Narrative Structure: A Carefully Cut Gem
Belle employs a dual perspective structure that alternates between Rayna and Willow, a technique she's perfected in previous novels like The Marriage Lie and Dear Wife. This approach allows her to build suspense while gradually revealing the connections between seemingly separate storylines. The pacing accelerates steadily, with each chapter ending on notes that compel immediate continuation.
The three-part structure mirrors the stages of diamond cutting—the rough discovery, the careful planning, and the final polishing that reveals the stone's true nature. Part One establishes the deadly foundation, Part Two builds the complex web of relationships and deceptions, and Part Three brings everything to a explosive climax that redefines everything readers thought they understood.
Writing Style: Polished Prose with Underlying Tension
Belle's prose style has evolved considerably since her earlier works like The Last Breath and The Ones We Trust. Her writing in The Expat Affair demonstrates increased confidence and sophistication, balancing accessible storytelling with literary depth. She has a particular gift for capturing the internal voices of women under extreme pressure, making their fears, doubts, and desperate hopes feel immediate and visceral.
The dialogue sparkles with authenticity, particularly in the exchanges between Rayna and Willow as their unlikely friendship develops. Belle captures the way women communicate—the subtext beneath seemingly casual conversations, the way trust builds gradually through shared vulnerabilities, the fierce loyalty that can develop between women facing similar challenges.
Her descriptions of the diamond trade provide fascinating insights without overwhelming the narrative flow. The technical details about diamond cutting, certification, and the black market trade enhance the story's authenticity while serving the plot's needs.
Strengths That Shine
The Expat Affair succeeds brilliantly in several key areas:
Authentic International Setting: Belle's firsthand knowledge of Amsterdam creates a vivid, believable backdrop that enhances rather than merely decorates the story
Complex Female Friendship: The relationship between Rayna and Willow develops organically, avoiding the tired trope of women as natural enemies
Intricate Plot Construction: Multiple storylines weave together seamlessly, with revelations that feel both surprising and inevitable
Cultural Authenticity: The expat experience feels genuine, capturing both the excitement and isolation of starting over in a foreign country
Strong Emotional Core: Beneath the thriller elements lies a thoughtful exploration of identity, belonging, and the courage required to start over
Areas for Improvement
While The Expat Affair largely succeeds, it's not without minor flaws:
The novel's middle section occasionally slows as Belle establishes the complex relationships within the Prins family dynasty. Some readers might find the extensive cast of secondary characters initially difficult to track, though most serve important purposes in the final act.
Certain plot conveniences stretch credibility slightly—particularly some of the more elaborate deceptions that require precise timing and cooperation. However, Belle's skilled writing generally carries readers past these moments without breaking the spell.
The resolution, while satisfying, feels slightly rushed given the careful buildup. A few more pages exploring the aftermath of the dramatic climax would have provided better emotional closure for such well-developed characters.
Thematic Depth
Beyond its surface thrills, The Expat Affair explores themes of reinvention, trust, and the price of privilege. Belle examines how people shed old identities when circumstances force change, whether through divorce, immigration, or moral awakening. The diamond industry serves as an effective metaphor for the way beautiful surfaces can conceal dark truths.
The novel also thoughtfully addresses issues of class and power, particularly through Willow's perspective as someone who married into wealth but never quite belongs. Belle avoids simplistic judgments, instead exploring the psychological costs of living within systems that value appearance over authenticity.
Final Verdict
The Expat Affair delivers everything readers expect from a Kimberly Belle thriller while pushing her storytelling into new territory. The authentic Amsterdam setting, complex female characters, and intricate plot construction create a reading experience that's both entertaining and emotionally satisfying. While not perfect, it represents a significant achievement that should satisfy longtime fans while attracting new readers to Belle's increasingly impressive body of work.
The novel succeeds as both a page-turning thriller and a thoughtful exploration of identity and belonging in an increasingly connected yet alienating world. Belle has crafted a story that glitters with all the surface appeal of the diamonds at its center while possessing the depth and complexity that transform good thrillers into memorable ones.
March 12, 2025
"𝑰𝒕'𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒂 𝒅𝒊𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒂 𝒓𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅."~𝑫𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒐𝒏
Much like her last book THE PARIS WIDOW, the setting was so artfully done, I felt like I was physically in Amsterdam. The opening scene immediately engages the reader--Rayna, who has come to Amsterdam for a fresh start, is enjoying her 'morning after' glow courtesy of Xander, her one-night stand. She hears the shower running and decides to join him, but when she walks into the bathroom, she's greeted by an absolute horror show. Xander has been brutally murdered, and Rayna flees in terror.
Once she gets a little distance from the vicious murder, she begins wondering how she slept through it and why she was spared. Everything changes after she finds out that Xander is in the diamond business and works for a renowned family, the Prins. She realizes that not only is she the prime suspect in the murder, but she's also under suspicion of theft as she posted a photo of herself on social media wearing one of his diamond necklaces that is now missing. Even though she deleted the photo, once it's on the Internet, it's there forever, and it begins circulating.
Worried that the killer will think she's in possession of the necklace, Rayna doesn't know where to turn, and when members of the powerful Prins family reach out to her, she questions if their motives are pure.
This was a fast-paced, thrilling inside look at the illicit diamond trade set in the stunning vistas of one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, its history and culture skillfully woven into the prose. Captivating, entertaining, and exciting, THE EXPAIT AFFAIR is set to publish June 3, 2025. Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing for this stunning early copy.
Much like her last book THE PARIS WIDOW, the setting was so artfully done, I felt like I was physically in Amsterdam. The opening scene immediately engages the reader--Rayna, who has come to Amsterdam for a fresh start, is enjoying her 'morning after' glow courtesy of Xander, her one-night stand. She hears the shower running and decides to join him, but when she walks into the bathroom, she's greeted by an absolute horror show. Xander has been brutally murdered, and Rayna flees in terror.
Once she gets a little distance from the vicious murder, she begins wondering how she slept through it and why she was spared. Everything changes after she finds out that Xander is in the diamond business and works for a renowned family, the Prins. She realizes that not only is she the prime suspect in the murder, but she's also under suspicion of theft as she posted a photo of herself on social media wearing one of his diamond necklaces that is now missing. Even though she deleted the photo, once it's on the Internet, it's there forever, and it begins circulating.
Worried that the killer will think she's in possession of the necklace, Rayna doesn't know where to turn, and when members of the powerful Prins family reach out to her, she questions if their motives are pure.
This was a fast-paced, thrilling inside look at the illicit diamond trade set in the stunning vistas of one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, its history and culture skillfully woven into the prose. Captivating, entertaining, and exciting, THE EXPAIT AFFAIR is set to publish June 3, 2025. Many thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing for this stunning early copy.
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