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Don't Trust Her
I’ve invited her into my home. It’s the worst mistake I’ve ever made.
Everyone thinks I have the perfect life. From the outside, it looks like I have it all — a beautiful home, two wonderful kids, a successful husband.
My life is nothing like I expected.
I used to have an exciting career. Now, I spend half my day in the school pick up line. My husband is always away for work, and I can’t handle everything alone.
Then I meet Adeline. She’s friendly and confident — I like her instantly. I don’t trust anyone to look after my children but she’s experienced and has excellent references.
She’s everything I need.
So I hire her to be my new au pair. I bring her into my home. She cooks for my husband. She looks after my children. I trust her with my life.
If only I’d known . . .
Everyone thinks I have the perfect life. From the outside, it looks like I have it all — a beautiful home, two wonderful kids, a successful husband.
My life is nothing like I expected.
I used to have an exciting career. Now, I spend half my day in the school pick up line. My husband is always away for work, and I can’t handle everything alone.
Then I meet Adeline. She’s friendly and confident — I like her instantly. I don’t trust anyone to look after my children but she’s experienced and has excellent references.
She’s everything I need.
So I hire her to be my new au pair. I bring her into my home. She cooks for my husband. She looks after my children. I trust her with my life.
If only I’d known . . .
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2025
1253 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
About the author
Adriane Leigh
58 books2,743 followersis a USA Today bestselling author of multiple novels and novellas. With appearances in publications such as Vogue Magazine and The Montreal Gazette, the award-winning author, in addition to writing, founded RARE: Romance Author & Reader Events, a community of internationally-renowned book conventions that draw thousands of readers and #1 bestselling authors to events around the world each year.
She hosts a podcast, The Rebel Artist, and her books are translated into French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.
She lives on Lake Michigan with her family.
She hosts a podcast, The Rebel Artist, and her books are translated into French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.
She lives on Lake Michigan with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
April 7, 2025
Genevieve was a former model and was the mother of two young children. Her husband, Alexandre, was a high-performing architect. They lived in a mansion and seemingly had everything. However, Genevieve is feeling overwhelmed and misses the glory of her former life. One day she meets Adeline while she is picking up her daughter from school.
Adeline states that she is a nanny and is looking for work. She seems like just what Genevieve needs to assist with her children.
The point of view alternates between Genevieve and Adeline. Soon there is internal strife because Genevieve believes that Adeline is pursuing her husband Alexandre.
The author does a great job keeping the reader in the dark and waiting to see what will happen. Are the narrators to be trusted?
Adeline states that she is a nanny and is looking for work. She seems like just what Genevieve needs to assist with her children.
The point of view alternates between Genevieve and Adeline. Soon there is internal strife because Genevieve believes that Adeline is pursuing her husband Alexandre.
The author does a great job keeping the reader in the dark and waiting to see what will happen. Are the narrators to be trusted?
March 18, 2025
The ending of this book literally blew my mind away. I finished reading it and I wanted to do nothing more than tell everyone I know who reads books that they have to read this book, and then I wanted to tell my book clubs that we have to read this book and discuss it. This book .. ugh… I’m at a loss for words with that ending. I just didn’t see it from a mile away.
Leigh did a great job writing Gen. I didn’t like her at all and I thought Adeline was really a life saver. Gen was really a spoiled housewife. I have two children, and I know how hard it is sometimes, but also, sipping a drink and watching Gilmore Girls while someone else is taking care of your children?!
There is a mental health aspect to this book that I wish was explored just a little bit more, but even so, that doesn’t take away from the book at all. The book is well written, with an easy flow. I legit read this in one day. I started it in the morning and finished it before I went to bed – and that’s with interruptions from my family and responsibilities!
This is a MUST READ thriller – so do yourself a favor and get your hands on this book, read it, and then let’s discuss!
Leigh did a great job writing Gen. I didn’t like her at all and I thought Adeline was really a life saver. Gen was really a spoiled housewife. I have two children, and I know how hard it is sometimes, but also, sipping a drink and watching Gilmore Girls while someone else is taking care of your children?!
There is a mental health aspect to this book that I wish was explored just a little bit more, but even so, that doesn’t take away from the book at all. The book is well written, with an easy flow. I legit read this in one day. I started it in the morning and finished it before I went to bed – and that’s with interruptions from my family and responsibilities!
This is a MUST READ thriller – so do yourself a favor and get your hands on this book, read it, and then let’s discuss!
February 12, 2025
DON'T TRUST HER BY ADRIANE LEIGH.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
Release date set for the the 13th of March 2025.
Well this book was a hidden gem.
I loved the premise of this story and it all came together brilliantly.
I thought it was written very well.
I love the cover and the blurb sounded so interesting.
It's so easy to read and fast paced.
Great characters.
Looking forward to reading more books from this author.
Highly recommend this book.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
Release date set for the the 13th of March 2025.
Well this book was a hidden gem.
I loved the premise of this story and it all came together brilliantly.
I thought it was written very well.
I love the cover and the blurb sounded so interesting.
It's so easy to read and fast paced.
Great characters.
Looking forward to reading more books from this author.
Highly recommend this book.
March 2, 2025
Thank you Joffe and netgalley for the opportunity to read this for an honest review.
I found this book confusing at the second chapter. I think it was the French aspect throwing me off. The verbiage was hard to follow for me. The names in the books were also odd. I’ve really enjoyed Adriane Leigh’s books so far but this wasn’t for me. Won’t stop me from checking out the next book she has though.
I found this book confusing at the second chapter. I think it was the French aspect throwing me off. The verbiage was hard to follow for me. The names in the books were also odd. I’ve really enjoyed Adriane Leigh’s books so far but this wasn’t for me. Won’t stop me from checking out the next book she has though.
February 9, 2025
Thank you Joffe Books and NetGalley for an early copy of Don’t Trust Her. I was very concerned for Laurent throughout this book and was anxious reading about him. Albertine was a spoiled brat or you thought she was until……the truth came out. What a twist this story had, my whole mind changed about everything!!!! So very sad mental illness truly is. Fantastic read!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2025
I didn’t think that I would like this as much as I did. I went in expecting it to be good but this book exceeded my expectations!
What really drew me into this story were the characters who had been dealt a heavy past, mental health awareness, and the characters trying to run and hide from their past. I think it was really interesting getting to see the perspective of both Gen and Adeline.
I was able predict the plot twist about Adeline and Gen towards the middle of the book due to some things that were hinted throughout the story but it was still so surprising to see it be revealed towards the end. That was such a huge mind blowing ending!
I went from disliking Alex due to his infidelity to liking him to loving who he was to feeling devastated at how his character wound up. He deserved so much better. He was definitely my favorite character.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What really drew me into this story were the characters who had been dealt a heavy past, mental health awareness, and the characters trying to run and hide from their past. I think it was really interesting getting to see the perspective of both Gen and Adeline.
I was able predict the plot twist about Adeline and Gen towards the middle of the book due to some things that were hinted throughout the story but it was still so surprising to see it be revealed towards the end. That was such a huge mind blowing ending!
I went from disliking Alex due to his infidelity to liking him to loving who he was to feeling devastated at how his character wound up. He deserved so much better. He was definitely my favorite character.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 19, 2025
Physiological thiller
I really liked the unexpected twist
Rating 4 stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
https://instagram.com/sylv.iareads?ig...
Www.goodreads.com/dsamuel48samgmailcom
My review:
Genevieve needs some help. Her husband travels all the time. She bumps into Adeline literally. Adeline tells her that she is a nanny and has watched for other neighbors in the past. Genevieve hires her. Help with the kids. Keep them out of Alexandere's way
Genevieve is a mess. She day drinks and doesn't take care of her children
Adeline has his own issues to worry about. She has met Gens' husband before. He just doesn't know it yet. She plans to reintroduce herself to him this time where he can remember and never forget
Alexandere works a lot and is always out of town. The love for Genevieve is slipping away. She can feel it, and she refuses to let another woman take her place
Adeline wants Alexandere for herself and wants him to get a divorce
Which woman will win his heart. Will he get a divorce or stay in his marriage
I really liked the unexpected twist
Rating 4 stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
https://instagram.com/sylv.iareads?ig...
Www.goodreads.com/dsamuel48samgmailcom
My review:
Genevieve needs some help. Her husband travels all the time. She bumps into Adeline literally. Adeline tells her that she is a nanny and has watched for other neighbors in the past. Genevieve hires her. Help with the kids. Keep them out of Alexandere's way
Genevieve is a mess. She day drinks and doesn't take care of her children
Adeline has his own issues to worry about. She has met Gens' husband before. He just doesn't know it yet. She plans to reintroduce herself to him this time where he can remember and never forget
Alexandere works a lot and is always out of town. The love for Genevieve is slipping away. She can feel it, and she refuses to let another woman take her place
Adeline wants Alexandere for herself and wants him to get a divorce
Which woman will win his heart. Will he get a divorce or stay in his marriage
March 15, 2025
~ 3.7 ✨
Despite the trope being one of the more trendy, overly done (I mean, we get it, the Nanny is always hot) I still didn’t catch on until it happened. Could I list several situations that just simply didn’t make sense - or would most likely land you in front of a CPS social worker - yes but it was a quick popcorn thriller with just the right amount of butter for me.
Despite the trope being one of the more trendy, overly done (I mean, we get it, the Nanny is always hot) I still didn’t catch on until it happened. Could I list several situations that just simply didn’t make sense - or would most likely land you in front of a CPS social worker - yes but it was a quick popcorn thriller with just the right amount of butter for me.
March 15, 2025
Don't trust her by Adriane Leigh.
I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I really enjoyed this book. From page one, I was hooked. I couldn't put it down. I listened to it on Kindle Unlimited. The story is between Genevieve and Adeline. Twisty and gripping. Lots of red flags. I was very surprised by the ending. I did not see that coming. Definitely recommend.
I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I really enjoyed this book. From page one, I was hooked. I couldn't put it down. I listened to it on Kindle Unlimited. The story is between Genevieve and Adeline. Twisty and gripping. Lots of red flags. I was very surprised by the ending. I did not see that coming. Definitely recommend.
March 8, 2025
I want to start by expressing my gratitude to @netgalley and @joffebooks for the opportunity to read “𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘛𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘏𝘦𝘳” by Adriane Leigh ahead of its publication on March 13th.
This is my first novel by Ms. Leigh and, truthfully, I selected it on a whim as it was marketed as a “gripping and unputdownable psychological thriller” on Goodreads - it’s literally in the book’s title on the platform. Unfortunately, for me, I found myself putting this one down 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐭 and not wanting to pick it back up again, viewing the task as somewhat of a chore at times.
This was due, in part, to the characters, all of whom I found very unlikable - with the exception of baby Laurent. While this may have been the point, and though I realized at the end that my view of Alexandre was warped by the main character’s view of him, it made it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the story and enjoy it.
While figuring out the big plot twist ahead of its unveiling doesn’t always impact my enjoyment of a book, in this case it did as I found myself disappointed. I guess I was waiting to be proven wrong and when that didn’t happen, I couldn’t help but let out a long sigh.
Overall, this one just didn’t work for me. If I had felt more connected to even one of the characters, maybe it would have been different.
I didn’t love it. I didn’t hate it. It was just 𝘰𝘬𝘢𝘺.
#bookstagram #books #audiobooks #mysterybooks #thrillerbooks #booksbooksbooks #netgalley #bookgirly #bookreviews #arcreviews
This is my first novel by Ms. Leigh and, truthfully, I selected it on a whim as it was marketed as a “gripping and unputdownable psychological thriller” on Goodreads - it’s literally in the book’s title on the platform. Unfortunately, for me, I found myself putting this one down 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐭 and not wanting to pick it back up again, viewing the task as somewhat of a chore at times.
This was due, in part, to the characters, all of whom I found very unlikable - with the exception of baby Laurent. While this may have been the point, and though I realized at the end that my view of Alexandre was warped by the main character’s view of him, it made it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the story and enjoy it.
While figuring out the big plot twist ahead of its unveiling doesn’t always impact my enjoyment of a book, in this case it did as I found myself disappointed. I guess I was waiting to be proven wrong and when that didn’t happen, I couldn’t help but let out a long sigh.
Overall, this one just didn’t work for me. If I had felt more connected to even one of the characters, maybe it would have been different.
I didn’t love it. I didn’t hate it. It was just 𝘰𝘬𝘢𝘺.
#bookstagram #books #audiobooks #mysterybooks #thrillerbooks #booksbooksbooks #netgalley #bookgirly #bookreviews #arcreviews
March 22, 2025
I love a great psychological thriller and having read The Guests by this author back in December - and loving it! - I knew that I was going to get a great read.
Once again, this front cover drew me in. I hate reading blurbs beforehand as I really don't want to have any spoilers going in - but this cover and tag line looked like this was going to be another twisty and tense one.
This had me hooked from the first few pages and I was totally invested - I couldn't put it down and raced through this in only a couple of sittings.
I loved that this was told over the dual pov chapters which gave us insight into each character's minds and allowed the story to unfold gradually, leaving us on edge and just waiting for the twists.
This was a really relatable story for me as a mum.
I always think back to how I felt when my children were younger a d the idea of getting help sounds idyllic - but I certainly couldn't have trusted anyone else with my kids and definitely not living in the house with us ....
This book has left me knowing I did the right thing!!
I felt the tension early in but the writing style helped to build this up throughout the story right up to the final few twists - which I was still surprised by, even though I was just waiting for them to come!
This was another great read and I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author in the future!
Once again, this front cover drew me in. I hate reading blurbs beforehand as I really don't want to have any spoilers going in - but this cover and tag line looked like this was going to be another twisty and tense one.
This had me hooked from the first few pages and I was totally invested - I couldn't put it down and raced through this in only a couple of sittings.
I loved that this was told over the dual pov chapters which gave us insight into each character's minds and allowed the story to unfold gradually, leaving us on edge and just waiting for the twists.
This was a really relatable story for me as a mum.
I always think back to how I felt when my children were younger a d the idea of getting help sounds idyllic - but I certainly couldn't have trusted anyone else with my kids and definitely not living in the house with us ....
This book has left me knowing I did the right thing!!
I felt the tension early in but the writing style helped to build this up throughout the story right up to the final few twists - which I was still surprised by, even though I was just waiting for them to come!
This was another great read and I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author in the future!
March 13, 2025
Don't Trust Her by Adriane Leigh was a gripping read that held my attention throughout.
The story's alternating POV structure worked brilliantly, giving me insight into both perspectives. This back-and-forth storytelling style kept the tension high and allowed the characters to develop in interesting ways. Each chapter added new layers, making me question who to believe and what was really happening.
The characters were well-established, and I felt their emotions and motivations were clearly defined. The mother’s struggles, her vulnerability, and her desperate attempt to manage her family life felt realistic, while the nanny's calculating and sinister presence added an unsettling edge.
I must admit that some parts of the plot initially felt stretched beyond belief. Certain details and situations had me questioning their plausibility. At first, I attributed this to cultural differences between UK and USA lifestyles, but once the plot twist was revealed, it all suddenly made much more sense. The twist was cleverly executed, tying together those seemingly exaggerated moments in a way that felt satisfying.
The finale was particularly intriguing, with a conclusion that almost had me flipping back through the pages to spot the clues I had missed. The story’s pacing and structure kept me engaged, and while some plot points pushed the limits of believability, the clever resolution made it worthwhile.
Overall, Don't Trust Her is a well-written, suspenseful read with strong character development and a cleverly woven plot. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with alternating perspectives and twists that make you question everything, this is one to add to your list!
The story's alternating POV structure worked brilliantly, giving me insight into both perspectives. This back-and-forth storytelling style kept the tension high and allowed the characters to develop in interesting ways. Each chapter added new layers, making me question who to believe and what was really happening.
The characters were well-established, and I felt their emotions and motivations were clearly defined. The mother’s struggles, her vulnerability, and her desperate attempt to manage her family life felt realistic, while the nanny's calculating and sinister presence added an unsettling edge.
I must admit that some parts of the plot initially felt stretched beyond belief. Certain details and situations had me questioning their plausibility. At first, I attributed this to cultural differences between UK and USA lifestyles, but once the plot twist was revealed, it all suddenly made much more sense. The twist was cleverly executed, tying together those seemingly exaggerated moments in a way that felt satisfying.
The finale was particularly intriguing, with a conclusion that almost had me flipping back through the pages to spot the clues I had missed. The story’s pacing and structure kept me engaged, and while some plot points pushed the limits of believability, the clever resolution made it worthwhile.
Overall, Don't Trust Her is a well-written, suspenseful read with strong character development and a cleverly woven plot. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with alternating perspectives and twists that make you question everything, this is one to add to your list!
March 14, 2025
Don’t Trust Her by Adriane Leigh was a little slow to start in my opinion. However, once I hit around halfway through I started to question some things that didn’t seem to “add up” between the main characters and once I got near the end and the twist came out, it was a shock I didn’t expect! I was glad I stuck through reading the book because it had a very good ending and I did enjoy it once I got past the initial introduction. Definitely give this book a try and don’t give up on it if you feel like it’s going slow… the ending is WORTH IT!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2025
Right from the very first page this book grips you. Told between Genevieve (ex model, rich mother of 2) and Adeline ( Nanny) this is a tale full of red herrings, twists and turns you won't see coming.
At times I really disliked the characters of Genevieve and her husband but you didn't know who to trust with this one. Then there is the perspective of a mystery woman whose troubled past made her the way she became. It all ties up nicely in the end and makes sense once you hit the reveal.
Thoroughly enjoyed this psychological thriller. Honestly I thought it would be like the housemaid but I was wrong and I loved it all the more for that.
At times I really disliked the characters of Genevieve and her husband but you didn't know who to trust with this one. Then there is the perspective of a mystery woman whose troubled past made her the way she became. It all ties up nicely in the end and makes sense once you hit the reveal.
Thoroughly enjoyed this psychological thriller. Honestly I thought it would be like the housemaid but I was wrong and I loved it all the more for that.
March 20, 2025
Don't Trust Her is the second I've read from Leigh and it's definitely my favourite to date!
Where do I even start?
I love a good cat and mouse chase, I mean who doesn't? But this was something else! I was obsessed!
The pace was perfect, a little slower than expected at times, but for me this just added to the nail biting tension as I prepared to expect the unexpected...OMG, I didn't see that one coming, not even an inkling...Wow! Excuse me why I scrape my jaw off the floor!
What a plot! Brilliantly twisty, told from dual POV with a great cast of imperfectly perfect characters.
Where do I even start?
I love a good cat and mouse chase, I mean who doesn't? But this was something else! I was obsessed!
The pace was perfect, a little slower than expected at times, but for me this just added to the nail biting tension as I prepared to expect the unexpected...OMG, I didn't see that one coming, not even an inkling...Wow! Excuse me why I scrape my jaw off the floor!
What a plot! Brilliantly twisty, told from dual POV with a great cast of imperfectly perfect characters.
March 13, 2025
Wow, this book was a rollercoaster of suspense! From start to finish, it had me hooked with its clever twists and dark, addictive storytelling. Every time I thought I had things figured out, the plot surprises, so satisfying for a psychological thriller.
The story is told from the perspectives of Genevieve and Adeline. Genevieve is dealing with a lot in her life and comes across as both frustrating and relatable. Adeline, on the other hand, seems like someone you want to trust, but I kept feeling unsure about her as the story went on.
As the plot moved forward, I was captivated by the subtle hints and red flags that built up to that twist. The ending was wild, unexpected, and perfectly tied up the story.
One of the things I loved most was how the story explored themes like mental health, trauma, and the shadows of the past.
I’m already excited to read more books by Adriane Leigh.
The story is told from the perspectives of Genevieve and Adeline. Genevieve is dealing with a lot in her life and comes across as both frustrating and relatable. Adeline, on the other hand, seems like someone you want to trust, but I kept feeling unsure about her as the story went on.
As the plot moved forward, I was captivated by the subtle hints and red flags that built up to that twist. The ending was wild, unexpected, and perfectly tied up the story.
One of the things I loved most was how the story explored themes like mental health, trauma, and the shadows of the past.
I’m already excited to read more books by Adriane Leigh.
April 3, 2025
"But no one talks about what happens after happily-ever-after"
4 STARS
This was such a great book. A fast read but still very twisty and unpredictable.
It was gripping from the very first pages. We plunged into a web of marriage complexities, showcasing the fragile nature of trust in relationships, the challenges that come with parenthood “ They say parenthood is a matter of living with your heart outside your body — everything you love is exposed and raw and vulnerable to all the evil that exists in the world ”. And how distance can create a wild split in which misunderstandings, hurt, resentment and doubt start creeping in. It also explored social expectations and how deeply it can affect a person, the sufffocating feeling of not belonging and the lengths people will go to survive.
The only reason m not giving it a 5 stars is the ending. This may be a spoiler for you(so u may u want to stop here) ;Regardless of her mental health problem, the husband and the kids deserved justice}
4 STARS
This was such a great book. A fast read but still very twisty and unpredictable.
It was gripping from the very first pages. We plunged into a web of marriage complexities, showcasing the fragile nature of trust in relationships, the challenges that come with parenthood “ They say parenthood is a matter of living with your heart outside your body — everything you love is exposed and raw and vulnerable to all the evil that exists in the world ”. And how distance can create a wild split in which misunderstandings, hurt, resentment and doubt start creeping in. It also explored social expectations and how deeply it can affect a person, the sufffocating feeling of not belonging and the lengths people will go to survive.
The only reason m not giving it a 5 stars is the ending. This may be a spoiler for you(so u may u want to stop here) ;Regardless of her mental health problem, the husband and the kids deserved justice}
March 14, 2025
This was such a great and twisty psychological thriller and I have to say I didn’t guess the twist coming at all! The writing is pacy and I loved the dual narratives/points of view. I did finish this in two sittings because I could hardly put it down. Tightly woven, Leigh keeps her cards close to her chest as she weaves the narrative. I was totally invested and needed to know what was going to happen next.
If you love pacy psychological thrillers this one is definitely one to consider.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
If you love pacy psychological thrillers this one is definitely one to consider.
As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest, truthful and freely given.
April 9, 2025
I really liked the book. The story was good i didn't see the twists. That being said the following is filled with spoilers so stop reading if you don't want it to ruined. .
If Ade is an alternate ...and the baby's dead ... who the hell did the paramedics come to?
If the baby is dead who did ade misplace when she went inside for the daughters popcorn telling her to watch the baby obky the baby was found down by the water and cliffs?
If Gen emailed Alex how come he didnt ask her why she was talking him to get an attorney?
If ade is an alternate ...who the hell told Gens friends about the medicine and the champagne? There were so many little things that were left out that didn't tie the story up. It would have been a five star if you went back and actually tied all the loose ends up.
If Ade is an alternate ...and the baby's dead ... who the hell did the paramedics come to?
If the baby is dead who did ade misplace when she went inside for the daughters popcorn telling her to watch the baby obky the baby was found down by the water and cliffs?
If Gen emailed Alex how come he didnt ask her why she was talking him to get an attorney?
If ade is an alternate ...who the hell told Gens friends about the medicine and the champagne? There were so many little things that were left out that didn't tie the story up. It would have been a five star if you went back and actually tied all the loose ends up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2025
Wow!! How did I not piece this one together? Mind blown 🤯
April 13, 2025
Something that might have helped with making the twist less obvious might've been not naming the protagonist's father "Ty(ler) Durden". I've also already read Playing Jenna so realizing what this was about was quite the disappointment
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2025
This is a superb Psychological Thriller with the emphasis on Thriller.
Genevieve and Alexandre are a wealthy couple living in the upmarket and exclusive end of Miami, but all is not well in their relationship. Alexandre spends most of his time away from home at his downtown company apartment returning home under sufferance at weekends. Genevieve is saddled with raising their two young children and entertaining the tedious neighbours. She suspects he is having an affair. Whilst waiting to collect her oldest child from school, she meets Adeline,
It appears that the chance encounter is heaven sent as Adeline is a recently out of work Au Pair. She tells Genevieve that she worked as a nanny and childminder for a respected family in the neighbourhood prior to them moving jobs and home. Genevieve knows the family, and if Adeline was good enough for them, she was certainly good for her family. Not bothering with references or talking to her husband, she takes on Adeline after a brief interview where Genevieve does all the talking. The story evolves with Adeline getting closer and closer to the two children and humouring Genevieve as her employer. The true characters of the pair develop as Adeline reveals herself to be wheedling herself into the family and Genevieve slowly slipping into boozy days by the pool or simpering with her shallow rich bitch friends. Things start to get weird and then even weirder until the final unexpected twist. And wow, what a twist! I didn't expect that!
An exceptionally clever and dark plot that is well crafted to keep you guessing until the end.
Genevieve and Alexandre are a wealthy couple living in the upmarket and exclusive end of Miami, but all is not well in their relationship. Alexandre spends most of his time away from home at his downtown company apartment returning home under sufferance at weekends. Genevieve is saddled with raising their two young children and entertaining the tedious neighbours. She suspects he is having an affair. Whilst waiting to collect her oldest child from school, she meets Adeline,
It appears that the chance encounter is heaven sent as Adeline is a recently out of work Au Pair. She tells Genevieve that she worked as a nanny and childminder for a respected family in the neighbourhood prior to them moving jobs and home. Genevieve knows the family, and if Adeline was good enough for them, she was certainly good for her family. Not bothering with references or talking to her husband, she takes on Adeline after a brief interview where Genevieve does all the talking. The story evolves with Adeline getting closer and closer to the two children and humouring Genevieve as her employer. The true characters of the pair develop as Adeline reveals herself to be wheedling herself into the family and Genevieve slowly slipping into boozy days by the pool or simpering with her shallow rich bitch friends. Things start to get weird and then even weirder until the final unexpected twist. And wow, what a twist! I didn't expect that!
An exceptionally clever and dark plot that is well crafted to keep you guessing until the end.
March 16, 2025
Don't Trust Her by Adriane Leigh
I've invited her into my home. It's the worst mistake I've ever made.
Everyone thinks I have the perfect life. From the outside, I have a beautiful home, two wonderful kids, and a successful husband.
My life is nothing like I expected.
I used to have an exciting career. Now, I spend half my day in the school pick-up line. My husband is always away for work, and I can't handle everything alone.
Then I meet Adeline. She's friendly and confident — I like her instantly. I don't trust anyone to look after my children, but she's experienced and has excellent references.
She's everything I need.
So, I hire her to be my new au pair. I bring her into my home. She cooks for my husband. She looks after my children. I trust her with my life.
If only I'd known
I have previously read another book by this author, The Perfect Escape, which I thoroughly enjoyed. So, I was eager to dive into their latest work.
The plot is compelling, and the storyline is expertly crafted. The characters are well-developed and believable, making for an engaging reading experience. This book delivers numerous twists and turns that culminate in a grand finale.
I want to thank publishers Joffe Books, author Adriane Leigh and Zooloos Book Tours for providing a copy to read and review.
'
I've invited her into my home. It's the worst mistake I've ever made.
Everyone thinks I have the perfect life. From the outside, I have a beautiful home, two wonderful kids, and a successful husband.
My life is nothing like I expected.
I used to have an exciting career. Now, I spend half my day in the school pick-up line. My husband is always away for work, and I can't handle everything alone.
Then I meet Adeline. She's friendly and confident — I like her instantly. I don't trust anyone to look after my children, but she's experienced and has excellent references.
She's everything I need.
So, I hire her to be my new au pair. I bring her into my home. She cooks for my husband. She looks after my children. I trust her with my life.
If only I'd known
I have previously read another book by this author, The Perfect Escape, which I thoroughly enjoyed. So, I was eager to dive into their latest work.
The plot is compelling, and the storyline is expertly crafted. The characters are well-developed and believable, making for an engaging reading experience. This book delivers numerous twists and turns that culminate in a grand finale.
I want to thank publishers Joffe Books, author Adriane Leigh and Zooloos Book Tours for providing a copy to read and review.
'
March 15, 2025
Gen is overwhelmed with life and just when she needed it, Adeline is there to save the day. I was hooked from the beginning and absolutely love the different POV we get as the reader. I started having some suspicions the more I read, but I was not prepared for what would happen. I've read one other novel by Leigh (The Guests) and loved that one as well!
Since I've finished I want to reread it again in the future now that I know what's really happening... I definitely recommend Don't Trust Her if you enjoy a quick paced story with twists and turns!
Since I've finished I want to reread it again in the future now that I know what's really happening... I definitely recommend Don't Trust Her if you enjoy a quick paced story with twists and turns!
March 6, 2025
A Good Twist At The End
Genevieve is struggling, although compared to most, she has everything anyone could wish for. She lives in her dream house in Palm Beach with her husband and two children but it seems she cannot manage without help so when she bumps into Adeline who claims to have experience looking after children Genevieve hires her immediately, but Adeline is not all she appears to be. I struggled to decide how many stars to give this book as I didn't take to either character, nor the eldest child. I was going to give it 3 stars but decided on 4 because of the twist at the end, which made me glad I persevered with the book.
Genevieve is struggling, although compared to most, she has everything anyone could wish for. She lives in her dream house in Palm Beach with her husband and two children but it seems she cannot manage without help so when she bumps into Adeline who claims to have experience looking after children Genevieve hires her immediately, but Adeline is not all she appears to be. I struggled to decide how many stars to give this book as I didn't take to either character, nor the eldest child. I was going to give it 3 stars but decided on 4 because of the twist at the end, which made me glad I persevered with the book.
March 6, 2025
This book was an incredible read! It delves into the struggles of a marriage teetering on the edge of divorce. This is by far my favourite novel by Adriane Leigh - the plot twists are absolutely phenomenal! By the time the pieces started falling into place, I found myself questioning everything I thought I understood.
It’s a must-read, and I can’t recommend it highly enough!
Thank you go BookSprout and author Adriane Leigh for an advanced review copy. This is my honest opinion.
See the full recap and review of this novel posted on my blog on release day.
https://bookishwondersreviews.blogspo...
It’s a must-read, and I can’t recommend it highly enough!
Thank you go BookSprout and author Adriane Leigh for an advanced review copy. This is my honest opinion.
See the full recap and review of this novel posted on my blog on release day.
https://bookishwondersreviews.blogspo...
February 22, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for providing this book, with my honest review below.
Don’t Trust Her starts with Genevieve, a wealthy mom of two who is harried and hires an au pair, Adeline, to help. It feels given this is a thriller that this will be the first mistake Genevieve will reflect on in seeing her marriage break down, but it becomes so much more. Sprinkled within the book are a mystery someone’s perspective as an escort and the mystery deepened as to how this plays into a story between Gen and Adeline. I did not see any of the twists and revelations coming across this subplot and the main, and I still don’t know if that has me feeling this is a great thriller or a bit cheated.
I’ll echo another reviewer that the mental health development has been done before and in a more sensitive and modern way, and while I really appreciate Adriane Leigh’s acknowledgements and recognition of mental health support, I can’t tell if it was a believable element of the book here or a cheap one. I’ll say one thing - I am deeply invested in Albertine’s (Gen’s daughter) future, which makes that ending much more dramatic than I expected.
Don’t Trust Her starts with Genevieve, a wealthy mom of two who is harried and hires an au pair, Adeline, to help. It feels given this is a thriller that this will be the first mistake Genevieve will reflect on in seeing her marriage break down, but it becomes so much more. Sprinkled within the book are a mystery someone’s perspective as an escort and the mystery deepened as to how this plays into a story between Gen and Adeline. I did not see any of the twists and revelations coming across this subplot and the main, and I still don’t know if that has me feeling this is a great thriller or a bit cheated.
I’ll echo another reviewer that the mental health development has been done before and in a more sensitive and modern way, and while I really appreciate Adriane Leigh’s acknowledgements and recognition of mental health support, I can’t tell if it was a believable element of the book here or a cheap one. I’ll say one thing - I am deeply invested in Albertine’s (Gen’s daughter) future, which makes that ending much more dramatic than I expected.
February 14, 2025
Much unlike other reviews I have seen, I really enjoyed this book but by the time I finished I found it ruined by a singular trope.
This book deals with a very controversial (to this day) mental health condition and instead of doing that in a sensitive manner, it plays it for sensationalism, horror and the sideshow effect of it. It’s 2025 not the 1900’s.
Adeline and Genevieve were well written, I liked neither and was excited to find out where it would all end up, yet as I got there I found all the work put in to these characters was pointless, this has all been done before and this book added nothing to the trope.
Before the ‘reveal’ a great deal of the sub plot is confusing, it does make sense after but I don’t even think it was needed. Nothing was gained from the vaguely illicit meetings between Alex and Sugar.
I would struggle to recommend this book, mainly because I am an optimist who believes stigmatic, sensationalist takes on mental health should not be popular.
I received this eArc from Netgalley in return for an honest review, which I’m sorry to say this is.
Thank you to both the publisher and Netgalley.
This book deals with a very controversial (to this day) mental health condition and instead of doing that in a sensitive manner, it plays it for sensationalism, horror and the sideshow effect of it. It’s 2025 not the 1900’s.
Adeline and Genevieve were well written, I liked neither and was excited to find out where it would all end up, yet as I got there I found all the work put in to these characters was pointless, this has all been done before and this book added nothing to the trope.
Before the ‘reveal’ a great deal of the sub plot is confusing, it does make sense after but I don’t even think it was needed. Nothing was gained from the vaguely illicit meetings between Alex and Sugar.
I would struggle to recommend this book, mainly because I am an optimist who believes stigmatic, sensationalist takes on mental health should not be popular.
I received this eArc from Netgalley in return for an honest review, which I’m sorry to say this is.
Thank you to both the publisher and Netgalley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2025
At first we are presented with the classic husband - au pair plot here, but stick with it! There's so much more to this book and it's worth the wait.
Adriane masterfully paints the emotional turmoil of the troubled wife trapped in her mansion in a loveless marriage. Every nuance of Gen's despair is beautifully illustrated. Her suspicion and the self hate generated by the impending failure of her marriage makes you start to have empathy for Gen, despite her faults.
Then we have that explosive ending. Just when you think you have worked it out, BANG, the story takes a completely different direction. Genius!
Thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC.
Adriane masterfully paints the emotional turmoil of the troubled wife trapped in her mansion in a loveless marriage. Every nuance of Gen's despair is beautifully illustrated. Her suspicion and the self hate generated by the impending failure of her marriage makes you start to have empathy for Gen, despite her faults.
Then we have that explosive ending. Just when you think you have worked it out, BANG, the story takes a completely different direction. Genius!
Thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC.
February 15, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author of the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book's portrayal of a sensitive mental health topic is unfortunately underdeveloped and relies on outdated portrayals. While I found myself engaged with Adeline and Genevieve's stories, their character arcs lacked depth, and the conclusion felt somewhat forced and predictable. The inclusion of unnecessary subplots further detracted from the narrative. Ultimately, this book perpetuates harmful stereotypes and offers little in the way of new insights or helpful information. I would not recommend it.
This book's portrayal of a sensitive mental health topic is unfortunately underdeveloped and relies on outdated portrayals. While I found myself engaged with Adeline and Genevieve's stories, their character arcs lacked depth, and the conclusion felt somewhat forced and predictable. The inclusion of unnecessary subplots further detracted from the narrative. Ultimately, this book perpetuates harmful stereotypes and offers little in the way of new insights or helpful information. I would not recommend it.
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