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Every Mother's Nightmare
It’s the call every mother dreads.
You knew it was coming…
You are at work, on a hot summer afternoon, when the phone vibrates in your handbag. Your heart beats faster as you scrabble to find it because somehow, even before you answer it, you know. It’s the call every mother fears. It’s the call you’ve been waiting for.
Your daughter is in hospital. She was found this morning, confused and alone. She doesn’t remember anything. You wish you had never let her go away for the weekend. You can’t understand why her brother wasn’t watching over her like he promised, why he didn’t protect her.
You race to be with them, before it’s too late. But then the police find a body, deep in the woods, right next to where your children were staying.
You’ll do anything to keep them safe. But knowing what you know… do you need to protect your son, your daughter, or yourself?
A brilliantly gripping thriller about what can happen when you choose the wrong path. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Gillian Flynn and Adele Parks.
See what everyone is saying about Every Mother’s Nightmare:
‘Brilliant… hooked me from the outset… I couldn’t tear myself away!… twists and turns that I didn’t see coming… simply captivating!… had me glued to my seat… You won’t be able to put this down until you’ve finished! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars!’ ARC reviews by m, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow! What have I just read!… twists and turns were fantastic… amazing. I read this in one sitting, at times my heart was in my mouth… I totally recommend reading this ASAP ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Ohhh did I just dive into this one… the very first pages had me hooked… I couldn’t put this book down… non-stop, need-to-read-this-now, next-page-please reading. I loved it.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Absolutely fantastic! I felt I was in this book!… I absolutely loved the multiple end twists.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Oh my gosh I literally was up all night reading this. It was so worth the lack of sleep. I started reading early in the day and could not force myself to stop… I loved.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Completely captivated me!… excellent… kept me on the edge of my seat… I found myself constantly resisting the urge to simply skip ahead and discover the ending sooner!… a book you won’t want to put down until you’ve devoured every last page.
You knew it was coming…
You are at work, on a hot summer afternoon, when the phone vibrates in your handbag. Your heart beats faster as you scrabble to find it because somehow, even before you answer it, you know. It’s the call every mother fears. It’s the call you’ve been waiting for.
Your daughter is in hospital. She was found this morning, confused and alone. She doesn’t remember anything. You wish you had never let her go away for the weekend. You can’t understand why her brother wasn’t watching over her like he promised, why he didn’t protect her.
You race to be with them, before it’s too late. But then the police find a body, deep in the woods, right next to where your children were staying.
You’ll do anything to keep them safe. But knowing what you know… do you need to protect your son, your daughter, or yourself?
A brilliantly gripping thriller about what can happen when you choose the wrong path. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Gillian Flynn and Adele Parks.
See what everyone is saying about Every Mother’s Nightmare:
‘Brilliant… hooked me from the outset… I couldn’t tear myself away!… twists and turns that I didn’t see coming… simply captivating!… had me glued to my seat… You won’t be able to put this down until you’ve finished! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars!’ ARC reviews by m, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Wow! What have I just read!… twists and turns were fantastic… amazing. I read this in one sitting, at times my heart was in my mouth… I totally recommend reading this ASAP ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Ohhh did I just dive into this one… the very first pages had me hooked… I couldn’t put this book down… non-stop, need-to-read-this-now, next-page-please reading. I loved it.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Absolutely fantastic! I felt I was in this book!… I absolutely loved the multiple end twists.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Oh my gosh I literally was up all night reading this. It was so worth the lack of sleep. I started reading early in the day and could not force myself to stop… I loved.’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Completely captivated me!… excellent… kept me on the edge of my seat… I found myself constantly resisting the urge to simply skip ahead and discover the ending sooner!… a book you won’t want to put down until you’ve devoured every last page.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2025
858 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Lynes
20 books831 followersS. E. Lynes is the #1 Amazon best selling author of THE HOUSEWARMING, and 'intelligent and haunting' psychological thrillers, VALENTINA, MOTHER, THE PACT, THE PROPOSAL, THE WOMEN, THE LIES WE HIDE, CAN YOU SEE HER? and HER SISTER'S SECRET
Formerly a BBC producer, after gaining an MA in Creative Writing, she became a Creative Writing Tutor at Richmond Adult Community College and now combines writing, mentoring and lecturing. She has also published three children's books in Italy.
Formerly a BBC producer, after gaining an MA in Creative Writing, she became a Creative Writing Tutor at Richmond Adult Community College and now combines writing, mentoring and lecturing. She has also published three children's books in Italy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
July 10, 2025
Another fine work of fiction by Lynes. She really has a distinctive voice, a poetic way of describing emotions and moods. That’s why I’m always happy to read her work, I know what I’m getting.
The plot follows an investigation into an assault, with multiple POVs. The alternation between them works well, and the pacing is good. There is an undercurrent of fear keeping the momentum going, even if there really is just one episode that is slowly revealed. But this is not a thriller that makes your heart beat faster, more a slow-burning tell-all with strong writing and exploration of the human mind as its strong points.
I also liked that there were no unanswered questions and that it shone a light on abuse and its consequences.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc
The plot follows an investigation into an assault, with multiple POVs. The alternation between them works well, and the pacing is good. There is an undercurrent of fear keeping the momentum going, even if there really is just one episode that is slowly revealed. But this is not a thriller that makes your heart beat faster, more a slow-burning tell-all with strong writing and exploration of the human mind as its strong points.
I also liked that there were no unanswered questions and that it shone a light on abuse and its consequences.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc
July 13, 2025
Every Mother's Nightmare is a tragic and unfortunately realistic reflection of what women endure constantly. I was instantly pulled into the world of Melissa and her children Casey and Dan. They are each motivated by insecurities, frustrations, and the desire to be accepted. S.E. Lynes' brilliant character development adds intensity and emotion to this heart-wrenching tale. The plot unfolds from multiple POVs creating a constant sense of foreboding throughout adding suspense to this gripping story. The conclusion was shocking and satisfying making this an addictive five-star creation. Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy.
July 9, 2025
Happy publication day 🥳🎉🎧
I’ve read a number of Lynes’ books, and while this wasn’t my favourite I did really enjoy it. I wholly appreciate the author trying to draw attention to all of the rapidly rising issues in society at the moment, and for the majority of the book I found the writing to be spot on.
Told from 3 perspectives in the lead up to, the event of and the aftermath of a summer festival.
Melissa, the mother, keen to give her daughter the same experiences as her friends, has been saving some money to gift her to go to Summer festival.
Dan, the son/brother is coming out of his shell a bit since making some new friends at the pub he works in and will be attending the festival with.
Casey, the daughter/sister recently finished school, desperate for summer festival to come around she’s ready to let her hair down before uni begins. Knowing her mum can’t afford it, Casey arranges to work at the festival, free accommodation free entry and spending money. The perfect plan.
Melissa is at work when she receives a call from the police to say that her daughter has been found partially clothed and unconscious in a tent , and from there everything is sent into freefall. The story really begins there and plays backwards. It was completely gripping. It transpires that a body has also been found at the.camp site. It also transpires that neither Dan or Casey have any memories from the night before. There were lots of twists that were really well executed,and had me doing some mental gymnastics. However, I have to be honest, while the twists were good. They definitely verged on unbelievable and there were a few things that didn’t sit well. All of that being said though, the book definitely holds a mirror to societal issues.
As always. Tamsin Kennard’s narration was excellent 🎧
3.5🌟
Huge thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
I’ve read a number of Lynes’ books, and while this wasn’t my favourite I did really enjoy it. I wholly appreciate the author trying to draw attention to all of the rapidly rising issues in society at the moment, and for the majority of the book I found the writing to be spot on.
Told from 3 perspectives in the lead up to, the event of and the aftermath of a summer festival.
Melissa, the mother, keen to give her daughter the same experiences as her friends, has been saving some money to gift her to go to Summer festival.
Dan, the son/brother is coming out of his shell a bit since making some new friends at the pub he works in and will be attending the festival with.
Casey, the daughter/sister recently finished school, desperate for summer festival to come around she’s ready to let her hair down before uni begins. Knowing her mum can’t afford it, Casey arranges to work at the festival, free accommodation free entry and spending money. The perfect plan.
Melissa is at work when she receives a call from the police to say that her daughter has been found partially clothed and unconscious in a tent , and from there everything is sent into freefall. The story really begins there and plays backwards. It was completely gripping. It transpires that a body has also been found at the.camp site. It also transpires that neither Dan or Casey have any memories from the night before. There were lots of twists that were really well executed,and had me doing some mental gymnastics. However, I have to be honest, while the twists were good. They definitely verged on unbelievable and there were a few things that didn’t sit well. All of that being said though, the book definitely holds a mirror to societal issues.
As always. Tamsin Kennard’s narration was excellent 🎧
3.5🌟
Huge thanks to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
June 18, 2025
Firstly, a big thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a well-crafted story, with a compelling narrative and engaging characters whose relationships feel authentic and layered. From the outset, the book lays a solid foundation, and I appreciated the gradual unfolding of the story behind the central events.
While I was anticipating impactful plot twists—and they did arrive—they didn’t quite deliver the shock value I was hoping for. The surprises are there, but they’re more subtle and introspective than jaw-dropping, which might not meet the expectations of readers looking for dramatic reveals.
That said, it was still an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. One of the most intriguing aspects was how the author portrayed Byrne’s charm and manipulative influence over others. His ability to captivate those around him was disturbingly believable, raising uncomfortable but important reflections on how similar dynamics play out in real life.
I also really appreciated how the mother’s emotions were explored—especially her fear of the different dangers each of her children might face based on their gender, and how powerless she feels to protect them from everything. It added depth to the narrative and made her character especially relatable.
Overall, I genuinely liked the book. It didn’t quite deliver the shock factor I had hoped for, but it made up for it in subtle tension, psychological insight, and emotional honesty. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a reflective tone.
This is a well-crafted story, with a compelling narrative and engaging characters whose relationships feel authentic and layered. From the outset, the book lays a solid foundation, and I appreciated the gradual unfolding of the story behind the central events.
While I was anticipating impactful plot twists—and they did arrive—they didn’t quite deliver the shock value I was hoping for. The surprises are there, but they’re more subtle and introspective than jaw-dropping, which might not meet the expectations of readers looking for dramatic reveals.
That said, it was still an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. One of the most intriguing aspects was how the author portrayed Byrne’s charm and manipulative influence over others. His ability to captivate those around him was disturbingly believable, raising uncomfortable but important reflections on how similar dynamics play out in real life.
I also really appreciated how the mother’s emotions were explored—especially her fear of the different dangers each of her children might face based on their gender, and how powerless she feels to protect them from everything. It added depth to the narrative and made her character especially relatable.
Overall, I genuinely liked the book. It didn’t quite deliver the shock factor I had hoped for, but it made up for it in subtle tension, psychological insight, and emotional honesty. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a reflective tone.
August 5, 2025
Release date: July 8, 2025
Author: S.E. Lynes
Publisher: Bookoture
⭐️⭐️⭐️
pre-read ‧₊˚⋅♡𓂃 ࣪
This book sounds like it’s right up my alley. I’m excited for a twisty thriller!!
Every Mother’s Nightmare
The writing didn’t really work for me—some parts felt dragged out and a little clunky—but the story itself was tense and twisty enough to keep me reading. It’s told through three perspectives, which helped build the suspense and slowly reveal the truth behind a seriously disturbing situation. There’s a dead body found in the woods, a missing teenage girl who’s later found alone in a tent and hospitalized, and a mother who’s completely unraveling but determined to protect her kids at all costs. The characters weren’t super deep, but the plot had enough going on to make up for it. Not amazing, but definitely kept me curious.
Thank you to Netgally, Bookoture & SE Lynes for this early edition!
Author: S.E. Lynes
Publisher: Bookoture
⭐️⭐️⭐️
pre-read ‧₊˚⋅♡𓂃 ࣪
This book sounds like it’s right up my alley. I’m excited for a twisty thriller!!
Every Mother’s Nightmare
The writing didn’t really work for me—some parts felt dragged out and a little clunky—but the story itself was tense and twisty enough to keep me reading. It’s told through three perspectives, which helped build the suspense and slowly reveal the truth behind a seriously disturbing situation. There’s a dead body found in the woods, a missing teenage girl who’s later found alone in a tent and hospitalized, and a mother who’s completely unraveling but determined to protect her kids at all costs. The characters weren’t super deep, but the plot had enough going on to make up for it. Not amazing, but definitely kept me curious.
Thank you to Netgally, Bookoture & SE Lynes for this early edition!
July 10, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ | Every Mother’s Nightmare was definitely an attention grabbing story and I was intrigued & engaged the entire time. What I enjoyed most was the dual POVs of the 3 main characters in this story, hearing it told in first person in each perspective added value.
Melissa receives a call from police notifying her to get to the hospital asap, as her 18 year old daughter Casey has been found disheveled & belligerent barely clothed. Alternating between before the incident & after, Melissa, Casey and Dan’s stories are revealed taking many turns.
Overall a decent read, I enjoyed the authors writing style and will be reading more from their catalogue. The narration in the audiobook was really good, she really highlighted those tension filled moments. Thank you Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
Publication 🗓️ : 07.09.25
Melissa receives a call from police notifying her to get to the hospital asap, as her 18 year old daughter Casey has been found disheveled & belligerent barely clothed. Alternating between before the incident & after, Melissa, Casey and Dan’s stories are revealed taking many turns.
Overall a decent read, I enjoyed the authors writing style and will be reading more from their catalogue. The narration in the audiobook was really good, she really highlighted those tension filled moments. Thank you Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. All opinions are my own.
Publication 🗓️ : 07.09.25
June 29, 2025
This was a decent read, though I had the suspend my disbelief at times. It centers on a young girl who is assaulted while working at a summer camp, with the rest of the story unfolding to show the reader the events leading up to that incident. The story is told primarily from 3 alternating POVs: Casey, the victim; Dan, her brother; and Melissa, their mom.
The characters were mostly likable, though I thought Melissa made multiple decisions that I didn’t agree with and she was the adult! When Dan or Casey messed up, it was from a lens of immaturity, but I was less inclined to forgive Melissa. The story unfolds a bit slowly, but the changes in timeline and POV kept it moving along. There were a couple big twists towards the end, one I saw coming and one I didn’t. The one I saw coming is the one that caused me to suspend my disbelief. The end of the book worked for the story but I kind of walked away feeling like I was being taught a lesson versus fully immersing myself in the story.
Overall, decent read but I don’t think this is my favorite by this author. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2025
This is a high quality audio book which has a revealing story told from different pov and at different times. This did grip my attention as I was drawn deeper into the story. There was real emotion in the characters narration, the fear of the mother and the brother showed through in all their various timelines. It did show nothing is always what it seems to be true . The pacing was good and the deep delve into history. Although there were twists and turns there was no dramatic reveal or hold on to my seat moment. I did enjoy this but was disappointed there was no great reveal. Perfect for mystery fans who like a slow burn that focuses on relationships rather than action. It was very engaging as I was compelled to listen to find out what really happened. This is just over a 4 star read. Thank you so much netgallery, publisher, narrator and author.
July 9, 2025
A harrowing cleverly woven story based around male toxicity, how someone can become involved in it and how it manifests as appealing when ‘sold’ to those seeking ‘the best life has to offer’ and are drawn into it and once there, even with reservations, find it hard to leave it
The story is set at a Summer camp where our main character ( working there ) wakes to find herself in a terrible predicament and not knowing who had caused it….her brother and his ‘friends’ are also at the camp, what happens next is a tense, quick moving tale involving ‘Mum’, the Police and Spider ( another worker at the camp ) all very diffetent characters but all central to the story
Its such an involving read, a buzzing hard hitting start that really didn’t let up and although I say this regularly this is my new fav by the author
I liked the ‘non easy approach’ to everything involved in the story, its so easy to write about a subject that is horrific without looking into the issues around it, why it seems glamorous and why the vulnerable are intoxicated by it and the role Social Media plays
And also any book that mentions Nescafe, Silk Cut and Joan Collins in one sentence ( offering light relief in a serious book ) has to be a winner
Superb again from S E Lynes
The story is set at a Summer camp where our main character ( working there ) wakes to find herself in a terrible predicament and not knowing who had caused it….her brother and his ‘friends’ are also at the camp, what happens next is a tense, quick moving tale involving ‘Mum’, the Police and Spider ( another worker at the camp ) all very diffetent characters but all central to the story
Its such an involving read, a buzzing hard hitting start that really didn’t let up and although I say this regularly this is my new fav by the author
I liked the ‘non easy approach’ to everything involved in the story, its so easy to write about a subject that is horrific without looking into the issues around it, why it seems glamorous and why the vulnerable are intoxicated by it and the role Social Media plays
And also any book that mentions Nescafe, Silk Cut and Joan Collins in one sentence ( offering light relief in a serious book ) has to be a winner
Superb again from S E Lynes
July 11, 2025
This is definitely "every mother's nightmare," for sure. This novel brings all of us (as mothers of teenage daughters) to light. This thriller will keep you on the edge as it unravels with multiple twists and turns and an unpredictable ending.
Thank you, #Netgalley and # Bookauture, for this ARC.
Thank you, #Netgalley and # Bookauture, for this ARC.
July 7, 2025
Review to follow nearer publication date.
This book had me on the edge of my seat. As soon as I read the first chapter I couldn’t put it down.
Being a mum and nanny myself this would definitely be my worst nightmare imaginable. To find out one of your children has been hurt and you’re not there is awful. Then when all the details of the incident come out things escalate rapidly.
I always enjoy S.E. Lynes writing, her books are thrilling and definitely hard to put down!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This book had me on the edge of my seat. As soon as I read the first chapter I couldn’t put it down.
Being a mum and nanny myself this would definitely be my worst nightmare imaginable. To find out one of your children has been hurt and you’re not there is awful. Then when all the details of the incident come out things escalate rapidly.
I always enjoy S.E. Lynes writing, her books are thrilling and definitely hard to put down!
Thank you to Netgalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 1, 2025
Single mum to Dan 23 and Casey 18, Melissa has always exoected and dreaded this day, the day she gets a call saying Casey needs her. Her kids are responsible and respectful but she cannot control what happens in their life.
Dans bored working in the local pub but when he meets the enigmatic Byrne he feels there could be more to his life. Casey heads off to work at summer camp and when Byrne and Casey meet, Dan's worst thoughts about his new friend come to haunt him.
Susie Lynes is known for her hard hitting novels, she doesn't hold back with her subjects. This novel is no exception as it covers relevant topics such as toxic masculinity and brainwashing. It's a fast paced tense novel that I couldn't put down.
Dans bored working in the local pub but when he meets the enigmatic Byrne he feels there could be more to his life. Casey heads off to work at summer camp and when Byrne and Casey meet, Dan's worst thoughts about his new friend come to haunt him.
Susie Lynes is known for her hard hitting novels, she doesn't hold back with her subjects. This novel is no exception as it covers relevant topics such as toxic masculinity and brainwashing. It's a fast paced tense novel that I couldn't put down.
August 30, 2025
This is my third S.E. Lyons book and it did not disappoint. She is adept at her genre of domestic (and other) thrillers. I'm always in for a good British narrator to tell me a story, and this one was gifted as well.
I thought the premise here was good and felt sure I'd be in for some heady twists and surprises. There was a good flow to the story and it was easy to follow along. There were some twists but ultimately it led to a fairly predictable ending. It was a ride to get there, though!
Recommended for fans of this genre without having to endure all the gore and difficult scenes.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture (always a favorite go-to) for this ARL. All opinions are mine.
I thought the premise here was good and felt sure I'd be in for some heady twists and surprises. There was a good flow to the story and it was easy to follow along. There were some twists but ultimately it led to a fairly predictable ending. It was a ride to get there, though!
Recommended for fans of this genre without having to endure all the gore and difficult scenes.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture (always a favorite go-to) for this ARL. All opinions are mine.
July 12, 2025
I had forgotten how good this author is! We are slowly led to the truths through multiple timelines and characters. This technique led to the perfect unveiling of this sad story. The story reads quickly, and I was worried when there was still 30% left to read when it feels like the end. But, instead of adding that last, awful twist (as so many authors do), what follows is masterful! I loved this book!
September 12, 2025
Big thanks to Bookouture for a copy on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Every Mother’s Nightmare is a gripping tale that will keep you flipping the pages until the final sentence.
Casey is at summer camp and after a big night, wakes up in a terrible situation not knowing how it happened.
Then her mother Melissa gets the dreaded phone call that her daughter is in hospital, she was found alone and doesn’t remember a thing.
As the police begin an investigation, they find a dead body near where Casey was.
Her brother and his idiot friends know something but what….
Who is lying and who is telling the truth…..
As the plot unfolds you question everything.
Male toxicity is a focus in this story as well as other themes.
A fast paced thriller with multiple points of view.
An author who continues to create great stories.
Every Mother’s Nightmare is a gripping tale that will keep you flipping the pages until the final sentence.
Casey is at summer camp and after a big night, wakes up in a terrible situation not knowing how it happened.
Then her mother Melissa gets the dreaded phone call that her daughter is in hospital, she was found alone and doesn’t remember a thing.
As the police begin an investigation, they find a dead body near where Casey was.
Her brother and his idiot friends know something but what….
Who is lying and who is telling the truth…..
As the plot unfolds you question everything.
Male toxicity is a focus in this story as well as other themes.
A fast paced thriller with multiple points of view.
An author who continues to create great stories.
June 10, 2025
The Housewarming by S.E. Lynes is one of my all-time favorite thrillers. That book has haunted me for years, especially since I read it when my daughter was a baby. Its plot—centered around the disappearance of a child—is every new parent’s worst fear, and it hit me like a punch to the gut.
So, when I saw Lynes had a new book coming out, I had to read it immediately. As the title suggests, Every Mother’s Nightmare taps into another universal fear: something terrible happening to your daughter. And on that front, it delivers.
This story is chilling and gut-wrenching. The drama feels real, and the use of multiple narrators across different timelines adds depth and emotional complexity. I found myself cringing at several moments—it’s one of those books that makes you want to hug your kids a little tighter.
That said, for me, it didn’t quite reach the masterful level of The Housewarming. While the premise was strong and the storytelling solid, the mystery’s resolution felt a little too easy. We figure out the truth fairly early on, and while there are a few twists later in the story, they don’t shift the narrative as much as I hoped. Some of the characters’ decisions—particularly the mother’s—also didn’t always feel believable.
Still, this is an entertaining and emotional read that thriller fans will appreciate. It plays on real parental fears, and while it didn’t shake me quite like Lynes’s earlier work, it’s definitely worth a read.
A huge thank you to Bookouture for the gifted ARC !
So, when I saw Lynes had a new book coming out, I had to read it immediately. As the title suggests, Every Mother’s Nightmare taps into another universal fear: something terrible happening to your daughter. And on that front, it delivers.
This story is chilling and gut-wrenching. The drama feels real, and the use of multiple narrators across different timelines adds depth and emotional complexity. I found myself cringing at several moments—it’s one of those books that makes you want to hug your kids a little tighter.
That said, for me, it didn’t quite reach the masterful level of The Housewarming. While the premise was strong and the storytelling solid, the mystery’s resolution felt a little too easy. We figure out the truth fairly early on, and while there are a few twists later in the story, they don’t shift the narrative as much as I hoped. Some of the characters’ decisions—particularly the mother’s—also didn’t always feel believable.
Still, this is an entertaining and emotional read that thriller fans will appreciate. It plays on real parental fears, and while it didn’t shake me quite like Lynes’s earlier work, it’s definitely worth a read.
A huge thank you to Bookouture for the gifted ARC !
July 4, 2025
⚠️ Thank you to Bookouture Audio, the author and NetGalley for an LRC in return for an honest review ⚠️
I think most parents will unfortunately understand all too well exactly what 'Every Mother's Nightmare' refers to and it's enough to send a chill down your spine. I hadn't read any of the authors previous work, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but the blurb pulled me in and I ended up finishing the entire book in a single sitting.
This is an emotionally charged psychological thriller that dives deep into the emotional complexities of adolescence, family dynamics and the terrifying undercurrents of modern-day toxic masculinity. As this is a highly sensitive topic for a lot of people, I would urge you to think carefully before reading this book if you are easily triggered. That said, I think S. E. Lynes has handled the subject matter perfectly and I have no complaints about the actual book. I do however have an issue with the publisher for not putting a clear trigger warning for sexual assault on this book.
If you’re looking for a gripping, thought-provoking thriller that doesn't flinch from uncomfortable truths, this is an excellent read. Whilst this book is intense, it is not gratuitous, but it is deeply unsettling in a way that feels all too believable. The story expertly navigates down the dark rabbit hole of coercive control and toxic 'alpha male' culture. The predator in the story exudes sinister energy from the outset. There is a moment where he is described as having a similar build to an XL Bully, in that he has “not a scrap of fat, solid muscle power. Violent if not properly trained.” The comparison to an XL Bully is absolutely devastating. It sums up the dangerous type of hyper-masculine persona the book critiques: one built on intimidation, dominance and the threat of violence, all hiding behind charm and control.
As the narrative unfolds my heart gradually began to sink as I could see certain, more impressionable youngsters falling for his surface-level charisma, who weren't able to sense what the reader could sense - that it was only a matter of time before he would become the fully fledged predator we could see taking shape before our very eyes.
A major highlight for me was the outstanding audiobook narration by Tamsin Kennard. She brings rawness, nuance and emotional truth to the performance, striking a perfect balance between tension and vulnerability. Her voice absolutely anchors the story and elevates it even further.
#EveryMothersNightmare #NetGalley #SexualAssault ⚠️
I think most parents will unfortunately understand all too well exactly what 'Every Mother's Nightmare' refers to and it's enough to send a chill down your spine. I hadn't read any of the authors previous work, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but the blurb pulled me in and I ended up finishing the entire book in a single sitting.
This is an emotionally charged psychological thriller that dives deep into the emotional complexities of adolescence, family dynamics and the terrifying undercurrents of modern-day toxic masculinity. As this is a highly sensitive topic for a lot of people, I would urge you to think carefully before reading this book if you are easily triggered. That said, I think S. E. Lynes has handled the subject matter perfectly and I have no complaints about the actual book. I do however have an issue with the publisher for not putting a clear trigger warning for sexual assault on this book.
If you’re looking for a gripping, thought-provoking thriller that doesn't flinch from uncomfortable truths, this is an excellent read. Whilst this book is intense, it is not gratuitous, but it is deeply unsettling in a way that feels all too believable. The story expertly navigates down the dark rabbit hole of coercive control and toxic 'alpha male' culture. The predator in the story exudes sinister energy from the outset. There is a moment where he is described as having a similar build to an XL Bully, in that he has “not a scrap of fat, solid muscle power. Violent if not properly trained.” The comparison to an XL Bully is absolutely devastating. It sums up the dangerous type of hyper-masculine persona the book critiques: one built on intimidation, dominance and the threat of violence, all hiding behind charm and control.
As the narrative unfolds my heart gradually began to sink as I could see certain, more impressionable youngsters falling for his surface-level charisma, who weren't able to sense what the reader could sense - that it was only a matter of time before he would become the fully fledged predator we could see taking shape before our very eyes.
A major highlight for me was the outstanding audiobook narration by Tamsin Kennard. She brings rawness, nuance and emotional truth to the performance, striking a perfect balance between tension and vulnerability. Her voice absolutely anchors the story and elevates it even further.
#EveryMothersNightmare #NetGalley #SexualAssault ⚠️
June 7, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
S E Lynes delivered an entertaining read. This story was about Every Mother’s Nightmare. It followed a mother who received a call at work that her daughter was hospitalized for having been found one morning, confused, alone, and not remember anything.
This was the first book I’ve read by S E Lynes. It was an intriguing and compelling read. The characters were relatable and believable. The plot was intriguing. Despite the fast paced storyline and short chapters, I wasn’t as interested as I hoped I would have been. As the story moved forward, I found myself getting bored with the abundance of unnecessary dialogue. I also found the main premise was a common one, one that I have read a few too many times. Typically when I read a book with a trope I’ve read before I expect there to be a particular psychological mystery-thriller element to make the book stand out from others in its genre. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen here. Regardless of this book not meeting my expectations, I liked her smooth flowing writing style and short chapters and I look forward to reading more books by S E Lynes in the future.
Thank you to Net Galley and Bookouture for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
S E Lynes delivered an entertaining read. This story was about Every Mother’s Nightmare. It followed a mother who received a call at work that her daughter was hospitalized for having been found one morning, confused, alone, and not remember anything.
This was the first book I’ve read by S E Lynes. It was an intriguing and compelling read. The characters were relatable and believable. The plot was intriguing. Despite the fast paced storyline and short chapters, I wasn’t as interested as I hoped I would have been. As the story moved forward, I found myself getting bored with the abundance of unnecessary dialogue. I also found the main premise was a common one, one that I have read a few too many times. Typically when I read a book with a trope I’ve read before I expect there to be a particular psychological mystery-thriller element to make the book stand out from others in its genre. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen here. Regardless of this book not meeting my expectations, I liked her smooth flowing writing style and short chapters and I look forward to reading more books by S E Lynes in the future.
Thank you to Net Galley and Bookouture for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 4, 2025
Melissa gets the call from hell. Her daughter Casey is in hospital 4 hours away after being attacked. Casey is confused and suffering from a level of amnesia so what actually happened is unclear. As a mum, Melissa is helpless. But events tear her apart – my emotional being felt fractured as I read.
Not only did I hear the pain Melissa went though a parent but Lynes switched perspectives/narrators and timelines. I was sent before and after whatever happened – with the after story, I moved further and further away from the incident. But I was pulled back to the incident as the story progressed and what a story it was!
Lynes explores some key issues of our modern world. The overt masculine movement promoted by Andrew Tate, the culture of “roofies”, the sharing of photos, take your pick. I worry about the world we live in as a mum of two boys. How will they meet a future partner without causing offence? It’s so different from my experience of 20/25 years ago when things worked so differently.
But bejeezus that last “part” of the book. I was stunned. The revelations and the curveballs just made this book what it is. Lynes has curated a thought provoking thriller which highlights many issues we face in modern society. As a parent it made me question my position and made me think about my boys’ future. Another cracking thriller from Susie Lynes.
Not only did I hear the pain Melissa went though a parent but Lynes switched perspectives/narrators and timelines. I was sent before and after whatever happened – with the after story, I moved further and further away from the incident. But I was pulled back to the incident as the story progressed and what a story it was!
Lynes explores some key issues of our modern world. The overt masculine movement promoted by Andrew Tate, the culture of “roofies”, the sharing of photos, take your pick. I worry about the world we live in as a mum of two boys. How will they meet a future partner without causing offence? It’s so different from my experience of 20/25 years ago when things worked so differently.
But bejeezus that last “part” of the book. I was stunned. The revelations and the curveballs just made this book what it is. Lynes has curated a thought provoking thriller which highlights many issues we face in modern society. As a parent it made me question my position and made me think about my boys’ future. Another cracking thriller from Susie Lynes.
July 6, 2025
If you’re after a pacey, sleepy-town, festival thriller that’s a perfect summer read, you won’t go far wrong with this new one from S E Lynes.
Casey wakes up in her tent, confused and disorientated. Before long, she’s in an ambulance being whisked to hospital as it looks like she may be a victim of assault. She’s been drugged, and can’t remember the details of the previous evening. Her brother’s panicking because he thinks his new best-buddy may be responsible. Her mum’s frantic because this wouldn’t have happened if only she’d made a different decision.
As Casey’s memory slowly returns, she begins to fill in the gaps.
The story switches between Casey, her mum and her brother’s POV, and as we discover what happened in the events leading up to the festival, and in the days that follow it, the picture slowly becomes clearer… or so it seems.
This mystery had multiple twists, and was expertly narrated by Tamsin Kennard. (I listened to the audiobook.)
Five stars from me, with thanks to NetGalley and BookoutureAudio for a chance to listen to an ARC. Every Mother’s Nightmare is out on July 9.
Casey wakes up in her tent, confused and disorientated. Before long, she’s in an ambulance being whisked to hospital as it looks like she may be a victim of assault. She’s been drugged, and can’t remember the details of the previous evening. Her brother’s panicking because he thinks his new best-buddy may be responsible. Her mum’s frantic because this wouldn’t have happened if only she’d made a different decision.
As Casey’s memory slowly returns, she begins to fill in the gaps.
The story switches between Casey, her mum and her brother’s POV, and as we discover what happened in the events leading up to the festival, and in the days that follow it, the picture slowly becomes clearer… or so it seems.
This mystery had multiple twists, and was expertly narrated by Tamsin Kennard. (I listened to the audiobook.)
Five stars from me, with thanks to NetGalley and BookoutureAudio for a chance to listen to an ARC. Every Mother’s Nightmare is out on July 9.
July 4, 2025
I love this author and this new book kept me engaged from start to finish. I was unsure what happened the entire time. There were some parts that felt undercooked but overall a steady psyche thriller with light social commentary about the brosphere I enjoyed the multiple narrators and timelines
SUMMARY: 18yo working at a summer camp for young adults her brother (22) and his new friends (26) are guests even though they are too old (it’s 20 and under). At camp the brother starts to realize his new friends (an influencer) is not a good guy. When he sees he has his sights on his younger sister, he warns her and tells the friend to back off.
The next morning, the sister wakes up topless, groggy, and with no clue what happened to her. While being taken to the hospital, brother stumbles around and looks for his sister only to find his friend dead.
The story is told from the sister, brother, and their mothers POV and also jumps around the timeline to days and weeks “before” and “now”
As the reader you’re left wondering what exactly happened. Did the sister kill him? The brother? One of the coworkers? the sister believes she did it, that she’d pushed him off her and fatally hit his head. The brother thinks he killed him during a fist fight. There’s another employee who has a past with him too… what really happened!?
Thanks netgalley!
SUMMARY: 18yo working at a summer camp for young adults her brother (22) and his new friends (26) are guests even though they are too old (it’s 20 and under). At camp the brother starts to realize his new friends (an influencer) is not a good guy. When he sees he has his sights on his younger sister, he warns her and tells the friend to back off.
The next morning, the sister wakes up topless, groggy, and with no clue what happened to her. While being taken to the hospital, brother stumbles around and looks for his sister only to find his friend dead.
The story is told from the sister, brother, and their mothers POV and also jumps around the timeline to days and weeks “before” and “now”
As the reader you’re left wondering what exactly happened. Did the sister kill him? The brother? One of the coworkers? the sister believes she did it, that she’d pushed him off her and fatally hit his head. The brother thinks he killed him during a fist fight. There’s another employee who has a past with him too… what really happened!?
Thanks netgalley!
July 23, 2025
No parent ever wants to hear the words, “Hello—this is Officer…” But that’s exactly the call single mom Melissa receives while she’s at work.
Fearing the worst, she rushes to the summer camp where her daughter, Casey, is a counselor and her son, Dan, is visiting with friends. What she doesn’t know is that Casey has just woken up nearly naked in a tent that isn’t hers—with no memory of how she got there. Meanwhile, Dan is growing more desperate by the minute, unable to reach his sister after a tense argument the night before.
What unfolds is every parent’s worst nightmare—an utterly chilling, edge-of-your-seat story that had me racing through the pages. This four-star read is haunting, suspenseful, and one I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Tamsin Kennard, the voice actress, did a wonderful job adding that chaos, unsettling, and desperate feeling all the family members were experiencing.
Big thanks to NetGalley, S.E. Lynes, and Bookouture for the chance to read and listen to this gripping thriller in exchange for an honest review.
Fearing the worst, she rushes to the summer camp where her daughter, Casey, is a counselor and her son, Dan, is visiting with friends. What she doesn’t know is that Casey has just woken up nearly naked in a tent that isn’t hers—with no memory of how she got there. Meanwhile, Dan is growing more desperate by the minute, unable to reach his sister after a tense argument the night before.
What unfolds is every parent’s worst nightmare—an utterly chilling, edge-of-your-seat story that had me racing through the pages. This four-star read is haunting, suspenseful, and one I won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Tamsin Kennard, the voice actress, did a wonderful job adding that chaos, unsettling, and desperate feeling all the family members were experiencing.
Big thanks to NetGalley, S.E. Lynes, and Bookouture for the chance to read and listen to this gripping thriller in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2025
WOW!!!! Dark and scary are the two words that came to my mind this entire book. I want to start off by saying that yes this one was slower paced at the beginning but once it got going, OMG!!!! Where to start???? The characters were well written and fit the storyline perfectly. The blurb in my opinion did not do this justice. It was so much more than described. Now I want to talk about that ending. It was shocking in so many ways. There were so many twists and turns. Normally, I can guess where the book is heading but I couldn’t with this one. It was all over the place in a good way. It really left me thinking about it for a long time after finishing it too. You know that’s a great book when that happens. This author never ceases to amaze me and I have enjoyed every book I’ve read by her. I can’t wait for her next one.
July 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the chance to listen to this audiobook.
Melissa, a single mother to Dan and Casey gets a call that every mother dreads. Her daughter has been assaulted. Once there it turns out not only has her daughter has been assaulted but someone has been murdered.
This story makes you question everyone, not knowing who did what.
Especially with the Andrew Tate effect on young men this was a really good read. This is sadly the world a lot of young men are growing up in!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the chance to listen to this audiobook.
Melissa, a single mother to Dan and Casey gets a call that every mother dreads. Her daughter has been assaulted. Once there it turns out not only has her daughter has been assaulted but someone has been murdered.
This story makes you question everyone, not knowing who did what.
Especially with the Andrew Tate effect on young men this was a really good read. This is sadly the world a lot of young men are growing up in!
June 19, 2025
ARC Read: NetGallery & Bookouture
Every mother’s nightmare a perfect title to this story and thanks again Bookouture for another good read. Some parts of the book were uncomfortable to read and anxiety driven. Especially the scenes with Byrne. The book did drag on in a few places. When you reach towards the ending, the twist appears and another twist appears!
Every mother’s nightmare a perfect title to this story and thanks again Bookouture for another good read. Some parts of the book were uncomfortable to read and anxiety driven. Especially the scenes with Byrne. The book did drag on in a few places. When you reach towards the ending, the twist appears and another twist appears!
June 20, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this book.
A mother receives a call while at work that her daughter is in the hospital with no memory of what occurred to her.
This book gives multiple perspectives and time lines. There was some shock factors, but I was hoping for more. It was an enjoyable read
A mother receives a call while at work that her daughter is in the hospital with no memory of what occurred to her.
This book gives multiple perspectives and time lines. There was some shock factors, but I was hoping for more. It was an enjoyable read
July 22, 2025
The phone call feared by every mother whilst watching her children grow into young independent adults.
Casey is in hospital after being found confused and alone with no memory of the previous night or how she got there.
When a body is then found near where Casey was found Melissa feels like the bottom has fallen out of her life. Things have changed forever more.
It took me a little while to get into the story but once I was captured I did not want to stop listening, the twists and turns along the way were captivating. The suspense was built impeccably, I felt myself freezing waiting in anticipation for what was to come.
Whilst I mostly enjoyed the narration by Tamsin Kennard I found her attempt at the voice for the men a tad annoying, the rest of the narration complimented the feeling and suspense of the storyline.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves a suspenseful mystery, if you like Sara Ochs then you will enjoy this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for offering this ARC in exchange for my personal thoughts.
Casey is in hospital after being found confused and alone with no memory of the previous night or how she got there.
When a body is then found near where Casey was found Melissa feels like the bottom has fallen out of her life. Things have changed forever more.
It took me a little while to get into the story but once I was captured I did not want to stop listening, the twists and turns along the way were captivating. The suspense was built impeccably, I felt myself freezing waiting in anticipation for what was to come.
Whilst I mostly enjoyed the narration by Tamsin Kennard I found her attempt at the voice for the men a tad annoying, the rest of the narration complimented the feeling and suspense of the storyline.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who loves a suspenseful mystery, if you like Sara Ochs then you will enjoy this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for offering this ARC in exchange for my personal thoughts.
January 1, 2026
This is a great thriller! The pacing is good and there are plenty of twists and the ending was surprising. I really enjoyed this and would recommend it! Special Thank You to S.E. Lynes, Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2025
Wooow... more twists than I saw coming!!! Fantastic read that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Summer camps are suppose to be fun thus one puts another spell on it that could actually happen. Loved this hook. And love this author.
Thank to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book
Thank to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book
June 9, 2025
Great book about siblings at a festival and all the goings on. I connected with the characters and each of their parts were believable, this is def going to be a movie or series!
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