What do you think?
Rate this book
Broken Vows #1
The First Wives
Two women live in neighboring beachfront mansions. One posts carefully curated photos of her enviable life. The other watches from the shadows, learning every detail of that life, waiting for the right moment to destroy it.
Hannah thought she knew which one she was.
When Hannah meets Sophia, she sees a kindred spirit. Another woman married to wealth, someone who understands the pressures of living up to impossible standards. Quickly, Sophia becomes the friend Hannah never knew she needed. Until Hannah discovers Sophia has been lying. About everything.
You may think you know where this is going. The confrontation. The revelation. The fight for survival. But Hannah is about to discover a truth so twisted it will shatter everything she believed about her marriage, her past, and herself.
Some secrets can kill. And some women have been living with the dead for years.
Fans of Freida McFadden and Jeneva Rose will be glued to every twist in this psychological thriller where nothing—and no one—is what they seem.
Hannah thought she knew which one she was.
When Hannah meets Sophia, she sees a kindred spirit. Another woman married to wealth, someone who understands the pressures of living up to impossible standards. Quickly, Sophia becomes the friend Hannah never knew she needed. Until Hannah discovers Sophia has been lying. About everything.
You may think you know where this is going. The confrontation. The revelation. The fight for survival. But Hannah is about to discover a truth so twisted it will shatter everything she believed about her marriage, her past, and herself.
Some secrets can kill. And some women have been living with the dead for years.
Fans of Freida McFadden and Jeneva Rose will be glued to every twist in this psychological thriller where nothing—and no one—is what they seem.
298 pages, Paperback
Published August 27, 2025
About the author
S.E. Reed
14 books144 followersS.E. Reed is an award-winning multi-genre author. She grew up in the Pacific Northwest, but longed to see the rest of America. After living in all five regions, she finally settled in Florida–nestled between the swampy Everglades and Atlantic Ocean. Many of her stories have a strong contemporary southern theme, but she also dabbles in the strange, bizarre, and fantastical.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
April 13, 2026
3.75⭐
Genre ~ domestic fiction
Setting ~ Florida
Publication date ~ September 24, 2025
Est Page Count ~ 298 (p+ 47 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 58 minutes
Narrator ~ Caitlin Shannon
POV ~ dual 1st, present tense
Featuring ~ 2 parts, influencer, secrets, betrayal, domestic abuse
Hannah (30) is a twin mom, married to Court, who is 49, and trad wife influencer. I'm not a super big fan of influencer books, but she didn't bother me too much, I guess.
Sophia has moved in next door and quickly befriends Hannah. We slowly see there's an ulterior motive and a reason behind the quick friendship.
In part 2 we're back to when Hannah is 17. You know when we head to the past it's to dig up an old secret to use in the present. Not sure it was totally necessary, but it was fine.
Overall, it was a pretty steady paced domestic fiction, not thriller really. Happy to say I hadn't figured out one of the twists. Kids were well behaved, so yay for that.
Narration notes:
She did do fine, but I do wish we had 2 different female narrators since it's dual POV.
Series notes:
Some of you might have seen my post when I was 27% into The First Widows only to realize it might be part of a series. This was not stated anywhere, not even Amazon, so I wasn't happy to have to pause that book to come read this one first, but I felt like I had to because I didn't want to risk missing anything. The main character, Sophia, plays a big part in both books, so don't make the same mistake I almost did. Come to find out it is now listed as a series on Amazon, after I originally mentioned my frustration about it, so I'm happy that future readers will know this going in.
Genre ~ domestic fiction
Setting ~ Florida
Publication date ~ September 24, 2025
Est Page Count ~ 298 (p+ 47 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 58 minutes
Narrator ~ Caitlin Shannon
POV ~ dual 1st, present tense
Featuring ~ 2 parts, influencer, secrets, betrayal, domestic abuse
Hannah (30) is a twin mom, married to Court, who is 49, and trad wife influencer. I'm not a super big fan of influencer books, but she didn't bother me too much, I guess.
Sophia has moved in next door and quickly befriends Hannah. We slowly see there's an ulterior motive and a reason behind the quick friendship.
In part 2 we're back to when Hannah is 17. You know when we head to the past it's to dig up an old secret to use in the present. Not sure it was totally necessary, but it was fine.
Overall, it was a pretty steady paced domestic fiction, not thriller really. Happy to say I hadn't figured out one of the twists. Kids were well behaved, so yay for that.
Narration notes:
She did do fine, but I do wish we had 2 different female narrators since it's dual POV.
Series notes:
Some of you might have seen my post when I was 27% into The First Widows only to realize it might be part of a series. This was not stated anywhere, not even Amazon, so I wasn't happy to have to pause that book to come read this one first, but I felt like I had to because I didn't want to risk missing anything. The main character, Sophia, plays a big part in both books, so don't make the same mistake I almost did. Come to find out it is now listed as a series on Amazon, after I originally mentioned my frustration about it, so I'm happy that future readers will know this going in.
September 3, 2025
Thank you, Storm Publishing, for sending me this ARC. 🥰
I genuinely liked this book. It was quick, engaging, and a fun read overall. I was hooked right from the start. I read this in one evening - couldn't put it down!
The only reason I didn't rate this higher is that the twist was almost nonexistent. From the first few chapters, I had a pretty good idea of how the story would unfold. Despite that, I still enjoyed it because it really held my attention.
The characters were interesting and had some complexity and depth. The plot had many layers to It, even though the twist was somewhat predictable.
If you're looking for a quick binge, this one is worth grabbing. 3.5, but rounding up because, as I said a bunch of times, I could not put this book down. 😂🤭
Pub day: 24 Sep 2025
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
I genuinely liked this book. It was quick, engaging, and a fun read overall. I was hooked right from the start. I read this in one evening - couldn't put it down!
The only reason I didn't rate this higher is that the twist was almost nonexistent. From the first few chapters, I had a pretty good idea of how the story would unfold. Despite that, I still enjoyed it because it really held my attention.
The characters were interesting and had some complexity and depth. The plot had many layers to It, even though the twist was somewhat predictable.
If you're looking for a quick binge, this one is worth grabbing. 3.5, but rounding up because, as I said a bunch of times, I could not put this book down. 😂🤭
Pub day: 24 Sep 2025
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
April 11, 2026
This twisty domestic thriller follows two women whose friendship and picture-perfect lives begin to unravel. The first part does its job in setting everything up, but the second half is where I was fully hooked and couldn’t put it down.
Initially, I struggled to connect with the characters, as most felt unlikeable without being particularly engaging, making it harder to stay invested. There were also a few believability issues, with certain actions not quite aligning with what had previously been established about some characters.
I picked up on a few of the reveals quite early on, which created that slightly frustrating yet engaging sense of waiting for the penny to drop for the main character. However, I do think this was intentional, with the reader given a step up on the characters to build tension and anticipation. The final 30% then really ramped up and delivered a few more twists than I expected, which was nicely done.
I’m very curious now about the second book, The First Widows, and will definitely be picking it up as soon as I can. I’d recommend this one to fans of dark, twisty domestic psychological thrillers centred around toxic relationships and a satisfying “good for her” theme.
Initially, I struggled to connect with the characters, as most felt unlikeable without being particularly engaging, making it harder to stay invested. There were also a few believability issues, with certain actions not quite aligning with what had previously been established about some characters.
I picked up on a few of the reveals quite early on, which created that slightly frustrating yet engaging sense of waiting for the penny to drop for the main character. However, I do think this was intentional, with the reader given a step up on the characters to build tension and anticipation. The final 30% then really ramped up and delivered a few more twists than I expected, which was nicely done.
I’m very curious now about the second book, The First Widows, and will definitely be picking it up as soon as I can. I’d recommend this one to fans of dark, twisty domestic psychological thrillers centred around toxic relationships and a satisfying “good for her” theme.
August 11, 2025
This was a fun popcorn thriller! Two neighbouring women living seperate lives. lines get blurred when confrontations and truths come to life. Pretty standard thriller layout, twists and turns some you may guess others may surprise you!
The first wives is fast paced and you can definitely read in one sitting!
Thank you to storm publishing for the netgalley gifted copy!
Publish date : September 24th
The first wives is fast paced and you can definitely read in one sitting!
Thank you to storm publishing for the netgalley gifted copy!
Publish date : September 24th
September 10, 2025
it was a good popcorn read. i Just expected more.twists. thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
August 6, 2025
Maybe I’ve just read too many thrillers, but this one felt incredibly predictable. The premise sounded promising, but the plot didn’t deliver the shocking twists I was hoping for. That said, the writing is solid. It’s clean, easy to follow, and definitely bingeable. If you’re new to thrillers, this could be a great starting point.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this arc
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this arc
September 28, 2025
The First Wives by S. E. Reed
The First Wives is a tense domestic thriller about secrets, lies, and the price of envy. Two women live in neighboring beachfront mansions—one flaunting her seemingly perfect life online, the other lurking in the shadows, studying every detail, waiting for her chance to tear it apart. Hannah thinks she knows exactly where she stands, until she befriends Sophia. Their instant bond feels like fate—two wives of wealthy men, trapped by impossible expectations. But when Hannah discovers Sophia’s carefully constructed facade, she realizes she’s stumbled into something much darker. Soon, the lies pile up, the danger escalates, and Hannah’s grip on her marriage—and her own past—begins to fracture.
I genuinely enjoyed this book—it’s fast-paced, compulsively readable, and I devoured it in a single evening. Reed has a knack for creating flawed yet relatable characters, and I found myself rooting for Hannah even when she made frustrating choices. Her vulnerability made the high-stakes tension feel more real.
That said, there were a few drawbacks. The title and prologue gave away too much, making the central twist predictable. By the first few chapters, I had a strong sense of where the story was headed, which lessened the impact. The subplot involving Matt felt unnecessary, and Court’s role stretched believability—logistically, it didn’t fully add up. The pacing in the middle sagged a little, with some repetitive scenes of Hannah’s emotional spiral. I also found her immediate, almost “instant best friend” connection with Sophia unrealistic and cheesy. And while the buildup was strong, the second half lost some of its sharpness—certain twists felt underwhelming, and a few scenes lacked purpose or coherence.
Despite these issues, The First Wives is an engaging, entertaining thriller. It hooked me from the start, kept me turning the pages, and delivered enough drama and suspense to make it worth the ride—even if the twists didn’t land as hard as I hoped.
Thank you to S. E. Reed, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for my honest review.
The First Wives is a tense domestic thriller about secrets, lies, and the price of envy. Two women live in neighboring beachfront mansions—one flaunting her seemingly perfect life online, the other lurking in the shadows, studying every detail, waiting for her chance to tear it apart. Hannah thinks she knows exactly where she stands, until she befriends Sophia. Their instant bond feels like fate—two wives of wealthy men, trapped by impossible expectations. But when Hannah discovers Sophia’s carefully constructed facade, she realizes she’s stumbled into something much darker. Soon, the lies pile up, the danger escalates, and Hannah’s grip on her marriage—and her own past—begins to fracture.
I genuinely enjoyed this book—it’s fast-paced, compulsively readable, and I devoured it in a single evening. Reed has a knack for creating flawed yet relatable characters, and I found myself rooting for Hannah even when she made frustrating choices. Her vulnerability made the high-stakes tension feel more real.
That said, there were a few drawbacks. The title and prologue gave away too much, making the central twist predictable. By the first few chapters, I had a strong sense of where the story was headed, which lessened the impact. The subplot involving Matt felt unnecessary, and Court’s role stretched believability—logistically, it didn’t fully add up. The pacing in the middle sagged a little, with some repetitive scenes of Hannah’s emotional spiral. I also found her immediate, almost “instant best friend” connection with Sophia unrealistic and cheesy. And while the buildup was strong, the second half lost some of its sharpness—certain twists felt underwhelming, and a few scenes lacked purpose or coherence.
Despite these issues, The First Wives is an engaging, entertaining thriller. It hooked me from the start, kept me turning the pages, and delivered enough drama and suspense to make it worth the ride—even if the twists didn’t land as hard as I hoped.
Thank you to S. E. Reed, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for my honest review.
August 9, 2025
Another fantastic story from the mind of S.E. Reed. I’ve loved all her YA novels and was excited to see her take on an adult suspense/thriller.
This suspenseful story sucked me right in, and I devoured it in just a couple sittings. I almost immediately thought I’d figured it out, then was certain I’d gotten it wrong, then discovered I was right all along. And the ride to find that out was worth every delicious minute reading. Something I’m really into when it comes to thrillers is motive, and this really delivered for me because there were still plenty of twists and turns beyond the main reveal. It looks like a sequel is on the horizon, so I look forward to my next binge-Reed.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.
This suspenseful story sucked me right in, and I devoured it in just a couple sittings. I almost immediately thought I’d figured it out, then was certain I’d gotten it wrong, then discovered I was right all along. And the ride to find that out was worth every delicious minute reading. Something I’m really into when it comes to thrillers is motive, and this really delivered for me because there were still plenty of twists and turns beyond the main reveal. It looks like a sequel is on the horizon, so I look forward to my next binge-Reed.
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.
August 11, 2025
As a fan of S.E. Reed’s YA novels, this adult thriller did not disappoint!
The story follows Hannah, a trad wife influencer whose life begins to unravel upon the arrival of her new neighbor, Sophia. The pacing and writing style made this a fast read, which I’m always eager to find in a thriller. Not only was the mystery engaging and kept me turning the pages, but I loved Hannah’s character arc and the heartfelt family and friend relationships she explored throughout. I’m looking forward to seeing what Reed does next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC!
The story follows Hannah, a trad wife influencer whose life begins to unravel upon the arrival of her new neighbor, Sophia. The pacing and writing style made this a fast read, which I’m always eager to find in a thriller. Not only was the mystery engaging and kept me turning the pages, but I loved Hannah’s character arc and the heartfelt family and friend relationships she explored throughout. I’m looking forward to seeing what Reed does next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC!
September 17, 2025
This was a fast paced read with a few twists.
I would say I guessed the main twist of the story but it was still a great read and I loved the ending.
The blurb...
Two women live in neighboring beachfront mansions. One posts carefully curated photos of her enviable life. The other watches from the shadows, learning every detail of that life, waiting for the right moment to destroy it.
Hannah thought she knew which one she was…
When Hannah meets Sophia, she sees a kindred spirit. Another woman married to wealth, someone who understands the pressures of living up to impossible standards. Quickly, Sophia becomes the friend Hannah never knew she needed. Until Hannah discovers Sophia has been lying. About everything.
You may think you know where this is going. The confrontation. The revelation. The fight for survival. But Hannah is about to discover a truth so twisted it will shatter everything she believed about her marriage, her past, and herself.
Some secrets can kill. And some women have been living with the dead for years.
Scary to think that although a fictional story things like this happen all the time.
Hannah's obsession with her social media image grated on me a-bit but I loved how her character progressed.
Thank you @netgalley and @stormpublishing for this early arc, I really enjoyed reading this.
4/5 stars
I would say I guessed the main twist of the story but it was still a great read and I loved the ending.
The blurb...
Two women live in neighboring beachfront mansions. One posts carefully curated photos of her enviable life. The other watches from the shadows, learning every detail of that life, waiting for the right moment to destroy it.
Hannah thought she knew which one she was…
When Hannah meets Sophia, she sees a kindred spirit. Another woman married to wealth, someone who understands the pressures of living up to impossible standards. Quickly, Sophia becomes the friend Hannah never knew she needed. Until Hannah discovers Sophia has been lying. About everything.
You may think you know where this is going. The confrontation. The revelation. The fight for survival. But Hannah is about to discover a truth so twisted it will shatter everything she believed about her marriage, her past, and herself.
Some secrets can kill. And some women have been living with the dead for years.
Scary to think that although a fictional story things like this happen all the time.
Hannah's obsession with her social media image grated on me a-bit but I loved how her character progressed.
Thank you @netgalley and @stormpublishing for this early arc, I really enjoyed reading this.
4/5 stars
April 8, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
Some books pull you in slowly, but this one had me hooked almost immediately.
It’s out of character for me to read a series out of order, but I jumped into The First Widows (book two in the Broken Vows series) before reading The First Wives, and it worked. I love that these can be read as standalones, but even more than that, there’s just something about S.E. Reed’s writing style that pulls me in every time.
This story had such a strong sense of tension running throughout. The dynamic between the characters, especially Hannah and Sophia, kept me constantly questioning motives and second-guessing everything. I loved the layered secrets, the subtle unease, and how the picture-perfect lifestyle slowly starts to crack. It felt polished on the surface but messy underneath.
And the twists… I really thought I had it all figured out, until I didn’t. Then another reveal hit, and another, and suddenly I was fully locked in. It kept me on edge, wanting more, and a little disappointed when it ended because I wasn’t ready to leave the story behind.
I’m really hoping to see more adult novels from Reed, she’s definitely becoming an auto-read author for me.
Some books pull you in slowly, but this one had me hooked almost immediately.
It’s out of character for me to read a series out of order, but I jumped into The First Widows (book two in the Broken Vows series) before reading The First Wives, and it worked. I love that these can be read as standalones, but even more than that, there’s just something about S.E. Reed’s writing style that pulls me in every time.
This story had such a strong sense of tension running throughout. The dynamic between the characters, especially Hannah and Sophia, kept me constantly questioning motives and second-guessing everything. I loved the layered secrets, the subtle unease, and how the picture-perfect lifestyle slowly starts to crack. It felt polished on the surface but messy underneath.
And the twists… I really thought I had it all figured out, until I didn’t. Then another reveal hit, and another, and suddenly I was fully locked in. It kept me on edge, wanting more, and a little disappointed when it ended because I wasn’t ready to leave the story behind.
I’m really hoping to see more adult novels from Reed, she’s definitely becoming an auto-read author for me.
August 26, 2025
Hannah thinks she is living her dream life as an influencer with her very wealthy husband and two beautiful children. But when Sophia moves in next door life takes on an unexpected change. Initially a strong friendship begins between the two but then events turn which sets up this fantastic plot that had me turning the pages extremely quickly and staying up late when I should have been sleeping. The book is what we are now calling ‘popcorn’ thrillers, fast moving, the story immediately draws you in and had my attention throughout. I really enjoyed it and will now be sourcing other books from the author who was new to me.
Thankyou to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
Thankyou to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
September 22, 2025
A cross between First Lie Wins and a Freida McFadden book (but better written and less annoying). I devoured this and it picked me out of a reading slump. Well paced and quick to read!
Thank you Storm Publishing and Net Galley for the ARC!
Thank you Storm Publishing and Net Galley for the ARC!
August 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow – what an addictive, dark, and twisty read! I was completely hooked from the very first chapter. The tension between Hannah and Sophia was so cleverly written – the glamour, the lies, the envy, and the secrets lurking beneath the surface kept me glued to the pages.
I loved how the story played with my expectations. Just when I thought I knew exactly where it was heading, the rug was pulled out from under me with another shocking twist. The unraveling of Hannah’s past and the truth about Sophia was brilliantly paced and full of suspense.
The beachside setting added so much atmosphere – all that perfection and beauty hiding something sinister underneath. This book has everything I love in a psychological thriller: unreliable characters, jaw-dropping reveals, and a dark, chilling undertone that stayed with me long after I finished.
If you enjoy thrillers that make you question who you can trust and keep you guessing right up to the final page, this one is an absolute must-read x
Wow – what an addictive, dark, and twisty read! I was completely hooked from the very first chapter. The tension between Hannah and Sophia was so cleverly written – the glamour, the lies, the envy, and the secrets lurking beneath the surface kept me glued to the pages.
I loved how the story played with my expectations. Just when I thought I knew exactly where it was heading, the rug was pulled out from under me with another shocking twist. The unraveling of Hannah’s past and the truth about Sophia was brilliantly paced and full of suspense.
The beachside setting added so much atmosphere – all that perfection and beauty hiding something sinister underneath. This book has everything I love in a psychological thriller: unreliable characters, jaw-dropping reveals, and a dark, chilling undertone that stayed with me long after I finished.
If you enjoy thrillers that make you question who you can trust and keep you guessing right up to the final page, this one is an absolute must-read x
November 2, 2025
Had so much potential but it took forever to finally get to the “twist” and I “lost interest by then.
August 19, 2025
Award-winning YA novelist S.E. Reed makes a seamless transition to adult thrillers with THE FIRST WIVES. Her debut novel with Storm Publishing is an absolute thrill ride that hooks readers on the opening pages and keeps them guessing until the end.
Hannah thinks she’s living her best life. The tradwife influencer has a huge social media following, a billionaire husband, a Florida mansion, and two wonderful kids. When Sophia moves in next door, she thinks she’s added a good friend to that bounty. But Sophia has secrets, and Hannah falls deeper and deeper into them.
Each chapter seemingly brings a shocking new revelation. Before long, Hannah finds herself in completely over her head. But is Sophia someone who will throw her a lifeline? Or will she leave Hannah to drown in deep water?
As always, character development and interiority remain some of Reed’s strengths. She writes compelling, relatable characters. Hannah is far from perfect. But she doesn’t deserve to be in the life-or-death situation she finds herself in. Reed makes us care about her plight and has us pulling for her to find a way through it.
But the character development doesn’t take place at the expense of the plot. This is a page-turning book in which something is always happening. Much like Hannah, readers will find themselves drawn into Sophia’s vortex. Luckily for us, we’ll enjoy the experience. Hannah? Not so much….
With her first four novels (for Wild Ink Publishing), Reed established herself as one of the most buzzworthy authors on the indie YA scene. If THE FIRST WIVES is any indication, she’ll make just as big an impact in the world of adult thrillers!
Hannah thinks she’s living her best life. The tradwife influencer has a huge social media following, a billionaire husband, a Florida mansion, and two wonderful kids. When Sophia moves in next door, she thinks she’s added a good friend to that bounty. But Sophia has secrets, and Hannah falls deeper and deeper into them.
Each chapter seemingly brings a shocking new revelation. Before long, Hannah finds herself in completely over her head. But is Sophia someone who will throw her a lifeline? Or will she leave Hannah to drown in deep water?
As always, character development and interiority remain some of Reed’s strengths. She writes compelling, relatable characters. Hannah is far from perfect. But she doesn’t deserve to be in the life-or-death situation she finds herself in. Reed makes us care about her plight and has us pulling for her to find a way through it.
But the character development doesn’t take place at the expense of the plot. This is a page-turning book in which something is always happening. Much like Hannah, readers will find themselves drawn into Sophia’s vortex. Luckily for us, we’ll enjoy the experience. Hannah? Not so much….
With her first four novels (for Wild Ink Publishing), Reed established herself as one of the most buzzworthy authors on the indie YA scene. If THE FIRST WIVES is any indication, she’ll make just as big an impact in the world of adult thrillers!
September 14, 2025
"The First Wives" by S.E. Reed is a fast-paced psychological thriller that taps into modern-day anxieties and trends, such as the curated lives portrayed on social media and the secrets hidden behind a façade of wealth and success. This relevance makes the characters feel more relatable and the premise more engaging. The story revolves around themes of trust, manipulation, friendship, and toxic trends, leaving readers to grapple with whom they can genuinely trust.
I found this book entertaining and incredibly engaging. Although I had an idea of where the story would lead from the beginning, I remained invested to see how it would all play out. I loved both female characters for their strength and determination, and I appreciated the friendship between the main character and her best friend. The ending was absolutely fantastic.
Hannah McMillian is a wife and mother to four-year-old twins, Rowen and Ruby. She has managed to turn her life into a social media phenomenon with 5 million followers. Her wealthy husband, Court, works in cryptocurrency finance and often travels for business.
When Hannah meets Sophie, who moves in next door and whose husband Blake is also in finance, she feels she has found someone who understands the pressures of maintaining high standards. They quickly become good friends, but Hannah soon notices inconsistencies that make her suspicious. She is not prepared for the shocking discoveries that will hit her like a bolt of lightning!
I found this book entertaining and incredibly engaging. Although I had an idea of where the story would lead from the beginning, I remained invested to see how it would all play out. I loved both female characters for their strength and determination, and I appreciated the friendship between the main character and her best friend. The ending was absolutely fantastic.
Hannah McMillian is a wife and mother to four-year-old twins, Rowen and Ruby. She has managed to turn her life into a social media phenomenon with 5 million followers. Her wealthy husband, Court, works in cryptocurrency finance and often travels for business.
When Hannah meets Sophie, who moves in next door and whose husband Blake is also in finance, she feels she has found someone who understands the pressures of maintaining high standards. They quickly become good friends, but Hannah soon notices inconsistencies that make her suspicious. She is not prepared for the shocking discoveries that will hit her like a bolt of lightning!
September 1, 2025
This book was absolutely amazing!! I was hooked right from the beginning and didn’t want to put it down. The twists and turns were shocking. I thought the characters were well developed and was extremely shocked about Sophie’s past and secrets. I was really into the characters and actually felt sad at certain times during the book which I won’t reveal because I don’t want to spoil anything. This is a must read psychological thriller that I highly recommend.
September 8, 2025
The First Wives by S.E. Reed
⭐ 4/5
A twisty, addictive domestic thriller that dives into envy, secrets, and betrayal. Reed sets up an irresistible premise: two women in neighboring beachfront mansions — one flaunting her perfect life, the other watching from the shadows.
The tension builds beautifully, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, the rug gets pulled out again. Some parts move quickly, but the suspense never lets up, and the ending lands with a satisfying punch.
Fans of Freida McFadden and Jeneva Rose will feel right at home here.
✨ Thank you NetGalley and Storm publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
⭐ 4/5
A twisty, addictive domestic thriller that dives into envy, secrets, and betrayal. Reed sets up an irresistible premise: two women in neighboring beachfront mansions — one flaunting her perfect life, the other watching from the shadows.
The tension builds beautifully, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, the rug gets pulled out again. Some parts move quickly, but the suspense never lets up, and the ending lands with a satisfying punch.
Fans of Freida McFadden and Jeneva Rose will feel right at home here.
✨ Thank you NetGalley and Storm publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 17, 2025
THE FIRST WIVES BY S.E. REED.
Release day set for the 24th of September 2025.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
This book caught my attention from the cover, the title and the blurb.
From the Prologue alone I was hooked.
Oh the twists and turns were great and I really didn't want to put this book now.
Highly recommend this one to everyone.
I'm really looking forward to reading another book by this author.
Release day set for the 24th of September 2025.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s
This book caught my attention from the cover, the title and the blurb.
From the Prologue alone I was hooked.
Oh the twists and turns were great and I really didn't want to put this book now.
Highly recommend this one to everyone.
I'm really looking forward to reading another book by this author.
November 27, 2025
I would like to thank author SE Reed for completely erasing my entire to-do list for this fine Saturday!
Future me may be bummed about the housework, but today I am *ALL-IN* on the housewife mom-drama in the novel The First Wives. I’m at the halfway mark and I had to jump on and tell you guys!
This has so many tropes/themes blended so well into a great suspense.
•trad-wife/SAHM
•billionaire husbands
•sweet friend vibes
•rich 🐝ch vibes
•an influencer mom
•an OFans gal
•adorable children
•and so much more
I think this is a book that a lot of moms will find really entertaining - but I also think that all women are going to find something here to connect with whether it’s because you see ourselves or you see other people you know.
If you have a mom’s club, Book Club, you should really consider this book as your next read!
Update at the end: WOW! Read it! It’s really good and so twisty. It got faster, and better, with every page!
Future me may be bummed about the housework, but today I am *ALL-IN* on the housewife mom-drama in the novel The First Wives. I’m at the halfway mark and I had to jump on and tell you guys!
This has so many tropes/themes blended so well into a great suspense.
•trad-wife/SAHM
•billionaire husbands
•sweet friend vibes
•rich 🐝ch vibes
•an influencer mom
•an OFans gal
•adorable children
•and so much more
I think this is a book that a lot of moms will find really entertaining - but I also think that all women are going to find something here to connect with whether it’s because you see ourselves or you see other people you know.
If you have a mom’s club, Book Club, you should really consider this book as your next read!
Update at the end: WOW! Read it! It’s really good and so twisty. It got faster, and better, with every page!
April 20, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
New author and I really enjoyed it! I’m already reading her second book of the series. Listened to this first one and narrator had a great voice, too!
Overall a quick thriller with all the usual fun/messy qualities.
New author and I really enjoyed it! I’m already reading her second book of the series. Listened to this first one and narrator had a great voice, too!
Overall a quick thriller with all the usual fun/messy qualities.
December 12, 2025
Another amazing book from this author. Couldn't put this one down!
December 11, 2025
Basic af book
I knew exactly how this would end within the first 20 pages.
For women who like Stanley cups and vera Bradley.
I knew exactly how this would end within the first 20 pages.
For women who like Stanley cups and vera Bradley.
September 9, 2025
Wow! The First Wives is a gripping psychological thriller that kept me reading into the wee small hours. We have Hannah, who appears to have it all: a billionaire husband, beautiful twins, and a seemingly perfect 'trad wife' life.
However, her idyllic world begins to crumble with the arrival of her new neighbor, the mysterious Sophia, who clearly has more issues than Vogue.
As Hannah's carefully constructed reality unravels, she must return to her roots, and muster her inner strength, relying on those she trusts and staying one step ahead.
S.E. Reed brilliantly depicts Hannah's growing paranoia and confusion, making her a protagonist I was rooting for from beginning to end.
With its relentless pace, unexpected twists, and an ending tied up as neatly as a gift box full of vegetable infused cakes, this book is a must read for thriller fans.
My thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the privilege of the ARC.
However, her idyllic world begins to crumble with the arrival of her new neighbor, the mysterious Sophia, who clearly has more issues than Vogue.
As Hannah's carefully constructed reality unravels, she must return to her roots, and muster her inner strength, relying on those she trusts and staying one step ahead.
S.E. Reed brilliantly depicts Hannah's growing paranoia and confusion, making her a protagonist I was rooting for from beginning to end.
With its relentless pace, unexpected twists, and an ending tied up as neatly as a gift box full of vegetable infused cakes, this book is a must read for thriller fans.
My thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the privilege of the ARC.
April 2, 2026
Gotta stop reading this author. Disappointing last couple books.
February 25, 2026
2.5⭐️
I’m convinced everyone giving this book more than 3⭐️ is either easily entertained, hasn’t read a good or even a decent thriller, or doesn’t question if the plot is making logical sense.
It’s not a thriller, it’s a family drama, and not a very well executed one.
The buildup was going good but quite long and after I reached 50% mark, it was a downhill road. The twists were not good, compared to how the buildup was done. The writing got weird, kind of sloppy in the second half. There were scenes with not much purpose to the overall story, or simply not making any logical sense.
Sophia’s chapters were random. Like, why her POV in the first place, if it’s only 5-maybe 10% of the chapters.
I’m sorry but I don’t think it’s a good thriller, it’s not exactly a thriller in the first place.
Without giving any spoilers, it just felt like the author couldn’t fully decide on some parts of the plot, which resulted in some things just not making sense.
I’m convinced everyone giving this book more than 3⭐️ is either easily entertained, hasn’t read a good or even a decent thriller, or doesn’t question if the plot is making logical sense.
It’s not a thriller, it’s a family drama, and not a very well executed one.
The buildup was going good but quite long and after I reached 50% mark, it was a downhill road. The twists were not good, compared to how the buildup was done. The writing got weird, kind of sloppy in the second half. There were scenes with not much purpose to the overall story, or simply not making any logical sense.
Sophia’s chapters were random. Like, why her POV in the first place, if it’s only 5-maybe 10% of the chapters.
I’m sorry but I don’t think it’s a good thriller, it’s not exactly a thriller in the first place.
Without giving any spoilers, it just felt like the author couldn’t fully decide on some parts of the plot, which resulted in some things just not making sense.
August 5, 2025
Book Review: S.E. Reed – The First Wives
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for my gifted ARC of The First Wives, an addictive domestic thriller set to be released on September 24, 2025.
From the first page, The First Wives had me leaning in. The premise is instantly compelling—two women living in neighboring beachfront mansions, one projecting a life of enviable perfection online, the other silently observing her every move. One of them is a performer, the other a predator. Or at least, that’s what we’re led to believe. S.E. Reed wastes no time drawing you into this sharp, twisted world where appearances are everything, but trust is a luxury no one can afford.
The story centers on Hannah, a woman seemingly living the good life—wealthy husband, luxury home, all the trappings of upper-class stability. But when Sophia moves in next door, Hannah sees more than just another socialite. She sees a potential friend, someone who understands the strange loneliness of living inside a golden cage. Sophia is charming, magnetic, and knows exactly how to mirror someone’s insecurities in a way that feels like empathy. Their friendship blossoms quickly, almost unnaturally, and from the beginning there’s a feeling that something is off. But it’s subtle. Reed doesn’t bash you over the head with red flags. She lets the dread build slowly, like a hairline crack in glass that starts to spread.
One of the strongest elements of this novel is how it plays with identity and perspective. Hannah thinks she knows who she is. She thinks she knows what kind of marriage she’s in, what kind of woman she’s become. But as Sophia’s presence starts to destabilize her life, she begins questioning everything—her husband, her past, even her own instincts. And just when you think the story is leading to a predictable confrontation or betrayal, Reed flips the script. The plot doesn’t just twist—it snaps.
I found myself highlighting passages and rereading scenes, not because they were confusing, but because they were so layered. Reed doesn’t waste a single sentence. Every interaction, every side glance or offhand comment, ends up meaning something. The tension isn’t built on jump scares or graphic violence—it’s built on quiet violations of trust, subtle shifts in power, and emotional sleights of hand. That kind of writing is rare in thrillers, where so many authors rely on plot gymnastics to keep readers engaged. Reed relies on psychology, character, and atmosphere—and it works.
A standout quote: “Some women survive by pretending. Others survive by watching. But the most dangerous are the ones who do both.” That line hits like a warning, and it’s a perfect summation of what this book is really about—how women shape-shift to survive in marriages, in society, in their own skin. It’s not just about deception. It’s about performance, control, and the silent war some women are fighting behind closed doors.
By the time the ending arrived, I was fully immersed—and stunned. Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say that the final reveal recontextualizes everything that came before it. It’s the kind of ending that makes you want to go back and re-read the book just to see the clues you missed. And no, I didn’t see it coming.
If I had one critique, it’s that the pacing in the middle could have been a touch tighter. There were a few scenes that felt slightly repetitive in Hannah’s emotional unraveling. But that’s a minor flaw in an otherwise expertly crafted thriller.
I give The First Wives ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars). It’s sharp, unsettling, and beautifully written, with complex female characters and a relentless psychological edge. S.E. Reed has crafted a smart, slow-burn thriller that doesn’t rely on shock value but instead builds its suspense with precision and care. Fans of Freida McFadden, Jeneva Rose, and Tarryn Fisher will find plenty to love here.
If you’re looking for a domestic thriller that’s as stylish as it is sinister, add this one to your list. Just don’t trust anyone while you’re reading.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for my gifted ARC of The First Wives, an addictive domestic thriller set to be released on September 24, 2025.
From the first page, The First Wives had me leaning in. The premise is instantly compelling—two women living in neighboring beachfront mansions, one projecting a life of enviable perfection online, the other silently observing her every move. One of them is a performer, the other a predator. Or at least, that’s what we’re led to believe. S.E. Reed wastes no time drawing you into this sharp, twisted world where appearances are everything, but trust is a luxury no one can afford.
The story centers on Hannah, a woman seemingly living the good life—wealthy husband, luxury home, all the trappings of upper-class stability. But when Sophia moves in next door, Hannah sees more than just another socialite. She sees a potential friend, someone who understands the strange loneliness of living inside a golden cage. Sophia is charming, magnetic, and knows exactly how to mirror someone’s insecurities in a way that feels like empathy. Their friendship blossoms quickly, almost unnaturally, and from the beginning there’s a feeling that something is off. But it’s subtle. Reed doesn’t bash you over the head with red flags. She lets the dread build slowly, like a hairline crack in glass that starts to spread.
One of the strongest elements of this novel is how it plays with identity and perspective. Hannah thinks she knows who she is. She thinks she knows what kind of marriage she’s in, what kind of woman she’s become. But as Sophia’s presence starts to destabilize her life, she begins questioning everything—her husband, her past, even her own instincts. And just when you think the story is leading to a predictable confrontation or betrayal, Reed flips the script. The plot doesn’t just twist—it snaps.
I found myself highlighting passages and rereading scenes, not because they were confusing, but because they were so layered. Reed doesn’t waste a single sentence. Every interaction, every side glance or offhand comment, ends up meaning something. The tension isn’t built on jump scares or graphic violence—it’s built on quiet violations of trust, subtle shifts in power, and emotional sleights of hand. That kind of writing is rare in thrillers, where so many authors rely on plot gymnastics to keep readers engaged. Reed relies on psychology, character, and atmosphere—and it works.
A standout quote: “Some women survive by pretending. Others survive by watching. But the most dangerous are the ones who do both.” That line hits like a warning, and it’s a perfect summation of what this book is really about—how women shape-shift to survive in marriages, in society, in their own skin. It’s not just about deception. It’s about performance, control, and the silent war some women are fighting behind closed doors.
By the time the ending arrived, I was fully immersed—and stunned. Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say that the final reveal recontextualizes everything that came before it. It’s the kind of ending that makes you want to go back and re-read the book just to see the clues you missed. And no, I didn’t see it coming.
If I had one critique, it’s that the pacing in the middle could have been a touch tighter. There were a few scenes that felt slightly repetitive in Hannah’s emotional unraveling. But that’s a minor flaw in an otherwise expertly crafted thriller.
I give The First Wives ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars). It’s sharp, unsettling, and beautifully written, with complex female characters and a relentless psychological edge. S.E. Reed has crafted a smart, slow-burn thriller that doesn’t rely on shock value but instead builds its suspense with precision and care. Fans of Freida McFadden, Jeneva Rose, and Tarryn Fisher will find plenty to love here.
If you’re looking for a domestic thriller that’s as stylish as it is sinister, add this one to your list. Just don’t trust anyone while you’re reading.
September 26, 2025
Book Review: S.E. Reed – The First Wives Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for my gifted ARC of The First Wives, an addictive domestic thriller set to be released on September 24, 2025. From the first page, The First Wives had me leaning in. The premise is instantly compelling—two women living in neighboring beachfront mansions, one projecting a life of enviable perfection online, the other silently observing her every move. One of them is a performer, the other a predator. Or at least, that’s what we’re led to believe. S.E. Reed wastes no time drawing you into this sharp, twisted world where appearances are everything, but trust is a luxury no one can afford. The story centers on Hannah, a woman seemingly living the good life—wealthy husband, luxury home, all the trappings of upper-class stability. But when Sophia moves in next door, Hannah sees more than just another socialite. She sees a potential friend, someone who understands the strange loneliness of living inside a golden cage. Sophia is charming, magnetic, and knows exactly how to mirror someone’s insecurities in a way that feels like empathy. Their friendship blossoms quickly, almost unnaturally, and from the beginning there’s a feeling that something is off. But it’s subtle. Reed doesn’t bash you over the head with red flags. She lets the dread build slowly, like a hairline crack in glass that starts to spread. One of the strongest elements of this novel is how it plays with identity and perspective. Hannah thinks she knows who she is. She thinks she knows what kind of marriage she’s in, what kind of woman she’s become. But as Sophia’s presence starts to destabilize her life, she begins questioning everything—her husband, her past, even her own instincts. And just when you think the story is leading to a predictable confrontation or betrayal, Reed flips the script. The plot doesn’t just twist—it snaps. I found myself highlighting passages and rereading scenes, not because they were confusing, but because they were so layered. Reed doesn’t waste a single sentence. Every interaction, every side glance or offhand comment, ends up meaning something. The tension isn’t built on jump scares or graphic violence—it’s built on quiet violations of trust, subtle shifts in power, and emotional sleights of hand. That kind of writing is rare in thrillers, where so many authors rely on plot gymnastics to keep readers engaged. Reed relies on psychology, character, and atmosphere—and it works. A standout quote: “Some women survive by pretending. Others survive by watching. But the most dangerous are the ones who do both.” That line hits like a warning, and it’s a perfect summation of what this book is really about—how women shape-shift to survive in marriages, in society, in their own skin. It’s not just about deception. It’s about performance, control, and the silent war some women are fighting behind closed doors. By the time the ending arrived, I was fully immersed—and stunned. Without spoiling anything, I’ll just say that the final reveal recontextualizes everything that came before it. It’s the kind of ending that makes you want to go back and re-read the book just to see the clues you missed. And no, I didn’t see it coming. If I had one critique, it’s that the pacing in the middle could have been a touch tighter. There were a few scenes that felt slightly repetitive in Hannah’s emotional unraveling. But that’s a minor flaw in an otherwise expertly crafted thriller. I give The First Wives ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars). It’s sharp, unsettling, and beautifully written, with complex female characters and a relentless psychological edge. S.E. Reed has crafted a smart, slow-burn thriller that doesn’t rely on shock value but instead builds its suspense with precision and care. Fans of Freida McFadden, Jeneva Rose, and Tarryn Fisher will find plenty to love here. If you’re looking for a domestic thriller that’s as stylish as it is sinister, add this one to your list. Just don’t trust anyone while you’re reading.
September 26, 2025
S.E. Reed’s The First Wives is a dark, addictive read that takes the concept of unlikely friendships and spins it into a twisted web of secrets, manipulation, and suspense. What begins as a story of women finding common ground quickly transforms into something far more unsettling, especially once a new neighbor enters the picture. From that point forward, the tension builds steadily, and each chapter deepens the sense that something is not quite right.
The friendships at the heart of the story are what make it so compelling. Reed draws the women with enough depth and nuance that you care about them, even as the dynamics between them shift in strange and unexpected ways. The arrival of the neighbor acts as a catalyst, turning the group’s bond into something laced with unease. That slow unraveling of trust and security gives the book its haunting, compulsive quality.
What I loved most was how the story grows darker and more twisted as it progresses. Every new revelation pushes the characters—and the reader—further into dangerous territory. Just when you think you have it figured out, Reed adds another layer that makes you question everything. The atmosphere becomes increasingly claustrophobic, and that rising tension is exactly what kept me from putting the book down.
Reed’s writing is sharp and immersive, blending psychological tension with domestic drama in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling. The pacing is well balanced, giving readers time to connect with the characters before throwing them headfirst into the darker twists of the plot. By the end, the story has moved far beyond its seemingly ordinary beginnings into something shocking, memorable, and chilling.
The First Wives is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the fragile nature of friendship, the darkness that can hide behind closed doors, and the dangers of trusting the wrong people. Twisted, tense, and impossible to put down, it’s the kind of book that keeps you thinking about its characters and their choices long after you’ve turned the final page.
The friendships at the heart of the story are what make it so compelling. Reed draws the women with enough depth and nuance that you care about them, even as the dynamics between them shift in strange and unexpected ways. The arrival of the neighbor acts as a catalyst, turning the group’s bond into something laced with unease. That slow unraveling of trust and security gives the book its haunting, compulsive quality.
What I loved most was how the story grows darker and more twisted as it progresses. Every new revelation pushes the characters—and the reader—further into dangerous territory. Just when you think you have it figured out, Reed adds another layer that makes you question everything. The atmosphere becomes increasingly claustrophobic, and that rising tension is exactly what kept me from putting the book down.
Reed’s writing is sharp and immersive, blending psychological tension with domestic drama in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling. The pacing is well balanced, giving readers time to connect with the characters before throwing them headfirst into the darker twists of the plot. By the end, the story has moved far beyond its seemingly ordinary beginnings into something shocking, memorable, and chilling.
The First Wives is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the fragile nature of friendship, the darkness that can hide behind closed doors, and the dangers of trusting the wrong people. Twisted, tense, and impossible to put down, it’s the kind of book that keeps you thinking about its characters and their choices long after you’ve turned the final page.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews