What do you think?
Rate this book
Let's Play Dead
Don’t speak. Don’t move. Don’t even breathe.
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa thinks she's found her perfect match in senior policeman Alex. He's everything she needs—a devoted husband and caring stepfather to her daughter Bella.
And, like Lisa, he knows what it is to lose someone precious. Alex suffered his own bereavement when his previous partner, Polly, passed away.
But is he really Mr. Right?
As Alex’s charm gradually morphs into rigid control, Lisa realises that he has a dark side, that she has married a man she doesn’t really know.
When she discovers a note left by his deceased wife Polly which seems to imply that Alex may have been responsible for her death, Lisa fears that she and Bella may be in mortal danger.
But escaping a man who wears a badge and knows how to hunt isn't just difficult—it could be deadly.
Let’s Play Dead – the shocking psychological thriller, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Liane Moriarty, and Sally Hepworth.
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa thinks she's found her perfect match in senior policeman Alex. He's everything she needs—a devoted husband and caring stepfather to her daughter Bella.
And, like Lisa, he knows what it is to lose someone precious. Alex suffered his own bereavement when his previous partner, Polly, passed away.
But is he really Mr. Right?
As Alex’s charm gradually morphs into rigid control, Lisa realises that he has a dark side, that she has married a man she doesn’t really know.
When she discovers a note left by his deceased wife Polly which seems to imply that Alex may have been responsible for her death, Lisa fears that she and Bella may be in mortal danger.
But escaping a man who wears a badge and knows how to hunt isn't just difficult—it could be deadly.
Let’s Play Dead – the shocking psychological thriller, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Liane Moriarty, and Sally Hepworth.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2025
217 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
September 2, 2025
This twisted tale is a page turner. Appearances are deceiving as the story unfolds in this unsettling account of deception. Lisa felt like Alex was the perfect man. Is he the man of her dreams, or is there a dark side lurking underneath the loving facade? Elena Frost masterfully weaves a constant thread of tension throughout this nail-biting, unpredictable thriller. It hooked me from start to finish and will stay with me a long time. Thank you Booksprout and Inkubator Books for my ARC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | This book definitely gave the movie “Sleeping With the Enemy” vibes and I was here for it!! This domestic thriller pull me in from the beginning and kept me intrigued the entire time.
Lisa and Alex are happy & in love, (or so she thinks) yet Lisa’s loved ones are concerned that she is moving too fast, especially her best friend Willow. She does not bite her tongue when letting her best friend know exactly how she feels regarding her recent nuptials. You can tell very early in the story that something is not quite right with Alex, but there was nothing that could’ve prepared me for all of the narcissistic traits and gaslighting that took place in the story.
I definitely went through a series of emotions as the chapters continued, as I wanted nothing more than Lisa and her daughter Bella to make it out of this story unscathed!
Overall, Frost’s writing is sharp and builds tension and the perfect pace! Pulling you into every scene as if you’re right there watching it unfold. I really liked the dual POVs from Lisa & Alex, it was good to see the story told in first person from them both. During Alex’s chapters, I kept thinking “welcome to the mind of a maniac” lol. If you enjoy mysterious domestic thrillers, I would recommend this one! I absolutely loved it & would consider this one a page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lisa and Alex are happy & in love, (or so she thinks) yet Lisa’s loved ones are concerned that she is moving too fast, especially her best friend Willow. She does not bite her tongue when letting her best friend know exactly how she feels regarding her recent nuptials. You can tell very early in the story that something is not quite right with Alex, but there was nothing that could’ve prepared me for all of the narcissistic traits and gaslighting that took place in the story.
I definitely went through a series of emotions as the chapters continued, as I wanted nothing more than Lisa and her daughter Bella to make it out of this story unscathed!
Overall, Frost’s writing is sharp and builds tension and the perfect pace! Pulling you into every scene as if you’re right there watching it unfold. I really liked the dual POVs from Lisa & Alex, it was good to see the story told in first person from them both. During Alex’s chapters, I kept thinking “welcome to the mind of a maniac” lol. If you enjoy mysterious domestic thrillers, I would recommend this one! I absolutely loved it & would consider this one a page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2025
Yes, yes, yes!
Let’s Play Dead is a fresh take on the thriller genre. By chapter 10, the villain had revealed himself, so the tension came not from who but from how. How would the victim escape, and how would justice catch up? The victim's desperation and villain's success kept me gripped — I kept having to remind my shuddering heart that this was a work of fiction.
The pacing pulled me in, and the stakes felt real. If I’m picky, the villain’s final reveal was a touch too neat. There was also a false equivalence equating betrayal with harsh language at the end.
Still, a solid 4.5 happily rounded up to 5.
Thank you to Inkubator Books and NetGalley for a copy of this title.
Let’s Play Dead is a fresh take on the thriller genre. By chapter 10, the villain had revealed himself, so the tension came not from who but from how. How would the victim escape, and how would justice catch up? The victim's desperation and villain's success kept me gripped — I kept having to remind my shuddering heart that this was a work of fiction.
The pacing pulled me in, and the stakes felt real. If I’m picky, the villain’s final reveal was a touch too neat. There was also a false equivalence equating betrayal with harsh language at the end.
Still, a solid 4.5 happily rounded up to 5.
Thank you to Inkubator Books and NetGalley for a copy of this title.
September 14, 2025
This was a fast paced book that I pretty much finished in one sitting. It centers on Lisa, tho gets married to Alex after a whirlwind romance, only to quickly realize that not everything is as it seems. To make it worse, Alex is a very senior member of the police force so it won’t be easy to get support for her concerns.
The book moves at a fast clip from beginning to end and it feels like characters make decisions quickly. I did have to suspend my disbelief a bit a few times- I found it hard to believe that Lisa’s opinion would change so quickly and suddenly, and I felt that both Lisa and Alex made decisions that were just not smart (even worse for Alex as a policeman who should know better). There weren’t major twists in the book and it was more of a cat and mouse chase throughout, but that was ok and kept the pacing fast. I did think the ending was a bit unrealistic (and it left one major question unanswered) but I also felt that it worked well with the rest of the story.
Overall, this was a fast and fun read as long as you don’t take it TOO seriously. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book moves at a fast clip from beginning to end and it feels like characters make decisions quickly. I did have to suspend my disbelief a bit a few times- I found it hard to believe that Lisa’s opinion would change so quickly and suddenly, and I felt that both Lisa and Alex made decisions that were just not smart (even worse for Alex as a policeman who should know better). There weren’t major twists in the book and it was more of a cat and mouse chase throughout, but that was ok and kept the pacing fast. I did think the ending was a bit unrealistic (and it left one major question unanswered) but I also felt that it worked well with the rest of the story.
Overall, this was a fast and fun read as long as you don’t take it TOO seriously. Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2025
I read this in twenty-four hours – it was that good! Following the death of her first husband, Lisa meets senior police detective Alex and marries him. He’s caring towards her young daughter, except nothing is as it seems. Alex is a master of coercive control and after Lisa finds a note written by Alex’s previous wife who supposedly died in a car crash, Lisa realises she’s made a terrible mistake. Except it’s not easy escaping the clutches of a police officer.
There is so much tension in this book, and the characters are so finely portrayed, you’ll find your heart racing and your breath catching. I’ve read many thrillers featuring controlling husbands and women fleeing abusive relationships, but this is surely the best. A must-read!
There is so much tension in this book, and the characters are so finely portrayed, you’ll find your heart racing and your breath catching. I’ve read many thrillers featuring controlling husbands and women fleeing abusive relationships, but this is surely the best. A must-read!
September 15, 2025
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book gripped me from the very first page. After a whirlwind romance, Lisa believes she has found the perfect husband in police officer Alex — until she realizes he may be hiding dark secrets.
The pacing of the story is like a rope pulled tighter and tighter, ready to snap at any moment. The claustrophobic atmosphere drew me in completely, with every gesture from Alex feeling like a veiled threat.
Lisa, with her mix of vulnerability and growing courage, is instantly relatable. Alex, on the other hand, is the kind of character you want to trust but can’t shake the feeling that something is terribly wrong. The dissonance between his affection and his controlling behavior is hypnotic.
When Lisa discovers that letter from Alex’s late wife, the tension skyrockets. From that point on, the reading experience becomes utterly unpredictable — I found myself questioning every line and doubting every detail.
By the time I reached the end, I was left with a lingering unease. This is the kind of story that forces you to reconsider how much we really know about the people closest to us, especially when the abusive figure holds authority and knows how to manipulate appearances.
I highly recommend Let’s Play Dead to fans of psychological thrillers filled with sharp twists and deeply complex characters that will push your emotional and mental limits. A haunting dive into toxic relationships and the darker corners of the human mind.
This book gripped me from the very first page. After a whirlwind romance, Lisa believes she has found the perfect husband in police officer Alex — until she realizes he may be hiding dark secrets.
The pacing of the story is like a rope pulled tighter and tighter, ready to snap at any moment. The claustrophobic atmosphere drew me in completely, with every gesture from Alex feeling like a veiled threat.
Lisa, with her mix of vulnerability and growing courage, is instantly relatable. Alex, on the other hand, is the kind of character you want to trust but can’t shake the feeling that something is terribly wrong. The dissonance between his affection and his controlling behavior is hypnotic.
When Lisa discovers that letter from Alex’s late wife, the tension skyrockets. From that point on, the reading experience becomes utterly unpredictable — I found myself questioning every line and doubting every detail.
By the time I reached the end, I was left with a lingering unease. This is the kind of story that forces you to reconsider how much we really know about the people closest to us, especially when the abusive figure holds authority and knows how to manipulate appearances.
I highly recommend Let’s Play Dead to fans of psychological thrillers filled with sharp twists and deeply complex characters that will push your emotional and mental limits. A haunting dive into toxic relationships and the darker corners of the human mind.
August 30, 2025
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa thinks she's found her perfect match senior policeman Alex. He's everything she needs, a devoted husband and caring stepfather to her daughter Bella. And, like Lisa, he knows what it is to lose someone precious. Alex suffered his own bereavement when his previous partner, Polly, passed away. As Alex’s charm gradually morphs into rigid control, Lisa realises that he has a dark side, that she has married a man she doesn’t really know. When she discovers a note left by his deceased wife Polly which seems to imply that Alex may have been responsible for her death, Lisa fears that she and Bella may be in mortal danger.
I was drawn in from the start & kept on the edge of my seat until the end. I made the mistake of starting the book in the evening & it was well into the night when I finished it – no way could I have got to sleep without knowing what happened to Lisa, Bella & Figgy. A very well written book, the characters had depth & the pace was so good. I really liked Lisa who literally ran for her life. Alex was too good to be true until he crossed a line with Figgy early on & that sealed his fate for me. There were twists & turns throughout the book which were often unexpected & surprising. If you love a good psychological thriller then I highly recommend this book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
I was drawn in from the start & kept on the edge of my seat until the end. I made the mistake of starting the book in the evening & it was well into the night when I finished it – no way could I have got to sleep without knowing what happened to Lisa, Bella & Figgy. A very well written book, the characters had depth & the pace was so good. I really liked Lisa who literally ran for her life. Alex was too good to be true until he crossed a line with Figgy early on & that sealed his fate for me. There were twists & turns throughout the book which were often unexpected & surprising. If you love a good psychological thriller then I highly recommend this book
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
August 31, 2025
I loved this. It was such a gritty and twisty read. The story was excellent and I couldn't put it down.
The cover is fantastic and the right level of creepy with the bear at the bottom of the stairs. Absolutely fantastic design job.
The book is extremely well written and flows beautifully. We have dual POB from Alex and Lisa. The book was just so well done. It was a page turner.
The setting was just regular cities in the UK. Mostly London and Edinburgh. Also a few Scottish towns. I enjoyed this. I love a visit to Scotland in books!
The characters were amazing and fit in beautifully. Lisa was excellent. She was so resilient. Alex I didn't trust him at all!
I definitely recommend this. I absolutely love Elena's books - you won't be disappointed.
The cover is fantastic and the right level of creepy with the bear at the bottom of the stairs. Absolutely fantastic design job.
The book is extremely well written and flows beautifully. We have dual POB from Alex and Lisa. The book was just so well done. It was a page turner.
The setting was just regular cities in the UK. Mostly London and Edinburgh. Also a few Scottish towns. I enjoyed this. I love a visit to Scotland in books!
The characters were amazing and fit in beautifully. Lisa was excellent. She was so resilient. Alex I didn't trust him at all!
I definitely recommend this. I absolutely love Elena's books - you won't be disappointed.
September 1, 2025
Whew! This book had me on edge from beginning to end. Let me just say it! the husband was the enemy, and he stayed on my last nerves the entire time. Every time he stepped on the page, I wanted to scream, but I can’t even lie he played a key role in pulling together the whole diabolical plot.
What I loved most was the main female character. She wasn’t here for the shenanigans, and I was proud of how she handled herself. She stayed strong, sharp, and determined while everything around her tried to break her down. That resilience made the story hit even harder.This was a dark, twisty, suspenseful read that kept me turning the pages. If you love a thriller with a messy husband you’ll want to throw hands with, but a heroine you’ll want to root for until the end—this one’s for you.
What I loved most was the main female character. She wasn’t here for the shenanigans, and I was proud of how she handled herself. She stayed strong, sharp, and determined while everything around her tried to break her down. That resilience made the story hit even harder.This was a dark, twisty, suspenseful read that kept me turning the pages. If you love a thriller with a messy husband you’ll want to throw hands with, but a heroine you’ll want to root for until the end—this one’s for you.
August 31, 2025
Y’all! Don’t speak. Don’t move. Don’t even breathe—because this one will have you holding your breath.
Lisa thinks she’s landed Mr. Perfect in Alex, a devoted cop and stepdad. But when his charm curdles into control and a chilling note from his late wife surfaces, the question isn’t if Lisa and Bella are in danger—it’s when. 😳
Frost nails the tension: Lisa is maddeningly relatable, Bella ups the stakes, and Alex? Smooth, sinister, and terrifyingly real. The writing is razor-sharp—you hear the silence, taste the fear, feel the dread.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 — A breathless domestic thriller. Some twists are guessable, but the suspense? Killer.
Lisa thinks she’s landed Mr. Perfect in Alex, a devoted cop and stepdad. But when his charm curdles into control and a chilling note from his late wife surfaces, the question isn’t if Lisa and Bella are in danger—it’s when. 😳
Frost nails the tension: Lisa is maddeningly relatable, Bella ups the stakes, and Alex? Smooth, sinister, and terrifyingly real. The writing is razor-sharp—you hear the silence, taste the fear, feel the dread.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5 — A breathless domestic thriller. Some twists are guessable, but the suspense? Killer.
September 9, 2025
Just wow! I have read many controlling husband/vulnerable wife relationship tropes, but this was written differently. The author let us know quickly and created a strong POV in Lisa! With the help of her best friend, Willow, they outsmart Alex and get to the bottom of the death of his first wife, Polly. I read this one in a day, it’s good. Thank you to Boldwood for a copy.
August 31, 2025
I flew through this one! It’s such an addictive psychological thriller — easy to read, super engaging, and impossible to put down.
The pacing is steady all the way through, and while some of the police elements aren’t exactly realistic, it didn’t take away from the drama or my enjoyment. This one is all about the twists, tension, and character dynamics.
I really liked Lisa as a main character, but Alex…I loathed.
The pacing is steady all the way through, and while some of the police elements aren’t exactly realistic, it didn’t take away from the drama or my enjoyment. This one is all about the twists, tension, and character dynamics.
I really liked Lisa as a main character, but Alex…I loathed.
August 31, 2025
Huge thanks to Elena Frost for sending me an ARC of Let’s Play Dead! After enjoying her debut Someone Like You, I couldn’t wait to dive into this one — and wow, I LOVED IT!
This is a fast-paced, adrenaline-fuelled psychological thriller that hooked me from page one. The clever cat-and-mouse dynamic, chilling abuse of power, and addictive games of manipulation by both Alex and Lisa made the tension electric. The alternating POVs were genius — giving insight into both minds, adding real complexity, and keeping me utterly invested.
What really stood out was Elena’s ability to end every single chapter on such a gripping note. I kept telling myself “just one more” until I’d practically devoured it in one sitting. On top of that, she weaves in some hard-hitting themes with real care and sensitivity, elevating the story beyond just a thriller and leaving me thinking about it long after I’d turned the final page.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ … and honestly, I’d give it more if I could!
This is a fast-paced, adrenaline-fuelled psychological thriller that hooked me from page one. The clever cat-and-mouse dynamic, chilling abuse of power, and addictive games of manipulation by both Alex and Lisa made the tension electric. The alternating POVs were genius — giving insight into both minds, adding real complexity, and keeping me utterly invested.
What really stood out was Elena’s ability to end every single chapter on such a gripping note. I kept telling myself “just one more” until I’d practically devoured it in one sitting. On top of that, she weaves in some hard-hitting themes with real care and sensitivity, elevating the story beyond just a thriller and leaving me thinking about it long after I’d turned the final page.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ … and honestly, I’d give it more if I could!
September 2, 2025
"Let's Play Dead" by Elena Frost is a masterclass in psychological suspense, a novel that burrows under your skin and refuses to let go. This isn't just a thriller; it's a deeply emotional exploration of grief, guilt, and the dangerous games we play with ourselves and others.
Frost's prose is both beautiful and chilling. She uses vivid imagery to create a palpable sense of unease, and her dialogue is sharp and authentic. "Let's Play Dead" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers who appreciate a story with genuine depth and emotional resonance. It's a haunting, thought-provoking, and ultimately satisfying novel that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Frost's prose is both beautiful and chilling. She uses vivid imagery to create a palpable sense of unease, and her dialogue is sharp and authentic. "Let's Play Dead" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers who appreciate a story with genuine depth and emotional resonance. It's a haunting, thought-provoking, and ultimately satisfying novel that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2025
Here’s my review for Let’s Play Dead by Elena Frost
I totally enjoyed this psychological thriller which gripped me from the start of the story and all the way through. Lisa and Alex had a whirlwind romance then got married after just eight months together. Alex was her brothers’ boss at work in the police force and they had both been married before. Lisa and her daughter Bella move in with Alex into a gated complex so it’s hard to get into or so you would think! After a while, Alex shows his true colours and his controlling nature takes over. Also, Lisa finds that he has a dark side and that he is different to the man that she dated. She realises she doesn’t actually know him that well but who can she tell? He’s a man with a badge? How can she and her daughter escape him? I really enjoyed this story and found it really gripping. I thought it was written really well and kept me invested in the story throughout. The plot was well thought out. The characters were well thought out, well developed and well written. I liked the author’s writing style and I found it a very easy story to get into. The synopsis drew me into this reading story and I most certainly wasn’t disappointed with it. I would like to read more of this author’s books in the future.
Blurb :
Don’t speak. Don’t move. Don’t even breathe.
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa thinks she's found her perfect match in senior policeman Alex. He's everything she needs—a devoted husband and caring stepfather to her daughter Bella.
And, like Lisa, he knows what it is to lose someone precious. Alex suffered his own bereavement when his previous partner, Polly, passed away.
But is he really Mr. Right?
As Alex’s charm gradually morphs into rigid control, Lisa realises that he has a dark side, that she has married a man she doesn’t really know.
When she discovers a note left by his deceased wife Polly which seems to imply that Alex may have been responsible for her death, Lisa fears that she and Bella may be in mortal danger.
But escaping a man who wears a badge and knows how to hunt isn't just difficult—it could be deadly.
Let’s Play Dead – the shocking psychological thriller, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Liane Moriarty, and Sally Hepworth.
I totally enjoyed this psychological thriller which gripped me from the start of the story and all the way through. Lisa and Alex had a whirlwind romance then got married after just eight months together. Alex was her brothers’ boss at work in the police force and they had both been married before. Lisa and her daughter Bella move in with Alex into a gated complex so it’s hard to get into or so you would think! After a while, Alex shows his true colours and his controlling nature takes over. Also, Lisa finds that he has a dark side and that he is different to the man that she dated. She realises she doesn’t actually know him that well but who can she tell? He’s a man with a badge? How can she and her daughter escape him? I really enjoyed this story and found it really gripping. I thought it was written really well and kept me invested in the story throughout. The plot was well thought out. The characters were well thought out, well developed and well written. I liked the author’s writing style and I found it a very easy story to get into. The synopsis drew me into this reading story and I most certainly wasn’t disappointed with it. I would like to read more of this author’s books in the future.
Blurb :
Don’t speak. Don’t move. Don’t even breathe.
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa thinks she's found her perfect match in senior policeman Alex. He's everything she needs—a devoted husband and caring stepfather to her daughter Bella.
And, like Lisa, he knows what it is to lose someone precious. Alex suffered his own bereavement when his previous partner, Polly, passed away.
But is he really Mr. Right?
As Alex’s charm gradually morphs into rigid control, Lisa realises that he has a dark side, that she has married a man she doesn’t really know.
When she discovers a note left by his deceased wife Polly which seems to imply that Alex may have been responsible for her death, Lisa fears that she and Bella may be in mortal danger.
But escaping a man who wears a badge and knows how to hunt isn't just difficult—it could be deadly.
Let’s Play Dead – the shocking psychological thriller, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Liane Moriarty, and Sally Hepworth.
September 2, 2025
❤️ WoW ❤️ Let's Play Dead by Elena Frost was a psychological suspense that will have you hooked from the very first few pages and the book cover was excellent for this book! Let's Play Dead was a gripping psychological thriller with a chilling twist that just took my breath away! Brilliant.
💙 Don’t speak. Don’t move. Don’t even breathe.. . . . . . . . . . You try it! 💙
💙 "NOW, Just sit there and Pretend to be dead!" 💙
"No, you can't breath and if you do it has to be very shallow and silent.......You moved your arm!!!! so Pretending to be dead isn’t easy it's hard work especially if you get an itch!"
Lisa is a widow and after a whirlwind romance, and is happy she thinks she's found her perfect match and partner in senior policeman Alex. He's everything she needs, he is a devoted husband and caring stepfather to her daughter Bella,
and he knows what it is to lose someone precious to them. Especially as Alex suffered his own bereavement when his previous partner, Polly, passed away.
But is he really Mr. Right?
Everything Lisa feels about him is perfect.
But, Alex’s charm gradually morphs into rigid control, Lisa realises that he has a very dark side, that she has married a man she doesn’t really know.
She discovers a note left by his deceased wife Polly which seems to imply that Alex may have been responsible for her death, Lisa fears that she and Bella may be in mortal danger. Noooooooooooo 🥺
But escaping a man who wears a Police badge and knows how to hunt isn't just difficult.......This it could be deadly.
There is No escape!!! Nowhere she can hide!!!!
Does Lisa and her Daughter Bella escape from Alex? Alive?
WoW Excellent and I highly recommend this book. 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for my ARC.
💙 Don’t speak. Don’t move. Don’t even breathe.. . . . . . . . . . You try it! 💙
💙 "NOW, Just sit there and Pretend to be dead!" 💙
"No, you can't breath and if you do it has to be very shallow and silent.......You moved your arm!!!! so Pretending to be dead isn’t easy it's hard work especially if you get an itch!"
Lisa is a widow and after a whirlwind romance, and is happy she thinks she's found her perfect match and partner in senior policeman Alex. He's everything she needs, he is a devoted husband and caring stepfather to her daughter Bella,
and he knows what it is to lose someone precious to them. Especially as Alex suffered his own bereavement when his previous partner, Polly, passed away.
But is he really Mr. Right?
Everything Lisa feels about him is perfect.
But, Alex’s charm gradually morphs into rigid control, Lisa realises that he has a very dark side, that she has married a man she doesn’t really know.
She discovers a note left by his deceased wife Polly which seems to imply that Alex may have been responsible for her death, Lisa fears that she and Bella may be in mortal danger. Noooooooooooo 🥺
But escaping a man who wears a Police badge and knows how to hunt isn't just difficult.......This it could be deadly.
There is No escape!!! Nowhere she can hide!!!!
Does Lisa and her Daughter Bella escape from Alex? Alive?
WoW Excellent and I highly recommend this book. 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for my ARC.
August 31, 2025
Thank you so much to @elenafrostauthor for sending me an epub early copy of your latest novel.
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa thinks she's found her perfect match in Alex.
- Good looking
- Wealthy
- Generous
- Police inspector
- Loves children
- Adores her
Like Lisa, he is also a widower after his wife, Polly, passed away. The perfect match?
So when he proposes how could she possibly say no.
But is he really Mr. Right?
Is she only seeing what she wants to see?
Lisa soon realises that his once caring side is quickly becoming more controlling .
Not long after their honeymoon is over the nightmare begins.
Lisa discovers a note hidden from Alex’s deceased wife ,which suggests Alex had a part to play in her death. Lisa fears that she and her daughter maybe in danger. She needs to tell the police but knows they won’t believe her.
Escaping won’t be easy .
Playing dead might be the only answer .
A gripping psychological thriller. One you won’t want to put down.
Warning ⚠️ this book covers sensitive subjects such as domestic violence, drug abuse and suicide. Elena is an amazing storyteller and she isn’t afraid to explore complex issues with an emotional depth.
Did I enjoy this ?
Absolutely I was hooked from the first chapter and read it in 2 sittings. Just when I thought I’d guessed the ending Elena threw in another twist. It kept me hooked till the very last page.
Would I recommend it ?
Definitely I love recommending new authors to friends and customers.
#elenafrostauthor
#letsplaydead
#psychologicalthriller
#pageturner
#gripping
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa thinks she's found her perfect match in Alex.
- Good looking
- Wealthy
- Generous
- Police inspector
- Loves children
- Adores her
Like Lisa, he is also a widower after his wife, Polly, passed away. The perfect match?
So when he proposes how could she possibly say no.
But is he really Mr. Right?
Is she only seeing what she wants to see?
Lisa soon realises that his once caring side is quickly becoming more controlling .
Not long after their honeymoon is over the nightmare begins.
Lisa discovers a note hidden from Alex’s deceased wife ,which suggests Alex had a part to play in her death. Lisa fears that she and her daughter maybe in danger. She needs to tell the police but knows they won’t believe her.
Escaping won’t be easy .
Playing dead might be the only answer .
A gripping psychological thriller. One you won’t want to put down.
Warning ⚠️ this book covers sensitive subjects such as domestic violence, drug abuse and suicide. Elena is an amazing storyteller and she isn’t afraid to explore complex issues with an emotional depth.
Did I enjoy this ?
Absolutely I was hooked from the first chapter and read it in 2 sittings. Just when I thought I’d guessed the ending Elena threw in another twist. It kept me hooked till the very last page.
Would I recommend it ?
Definitely I love recommending new authors to friends and customers.
#elenafrostauthor
#letsplaydead
#psychologicalthriller
#pageturner
#gripping
August 31, 2025
Let’s play dead, a great journey into the world of coercive control and the dangerous speed in which it can switch to something more dangerous. This story follows Lisa our main female character, thinking she’ll never find love again, meeting Alex was something she dreamed of by the fairytale doesn’t last long.
What would you do if you found a note from you new husbands previous wife??? The wife he tragically lost in an accident. A note framing him for her murder. Questioning everything you read along as the story unfolds and Lisa starts to notice the coercive behaviour. Coming home one day with Bella her young daughter Lisa witnesses something horrifying, opening her eyes to who her husband truly is.
What happens next is a whirlwind of a journey as Lisa tries to escape and protect her daughter. But this isn’t any ordinary escape, as you know that Alex isn’t beyond using his position as a senior policeman to manipulate the story to his benefit. The twists and turns keeping you edge right until the end, at points luring you into that false sense of security.
This is a whirlwind of a psychological thriller exploring the depths of what victims and perpetrators are willing to go to in order to survive. The characters are well developed and I hated the husband from about chapter two, I felt the disappointment of Lisa when dealing with her brother and loved the vigilante plans of Lisa and her best friend to ensure Lisa’s survival and Alex’s downfall. Alex is the perfect villain, the villain that thinks they are untouchable and have the power of control to manipulate the story.
Violence, murder, coercive control (and a small scene of animal cruelty- just as a trigger warning) this is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat hoping for a satisfying ending, which for me was certainly delivered!
What would you do if you found a note from you new husbands previous wife??? The wife he tragically lost in an accident. A note framing him for her murder. Questioning everything you read along as the story unfolds and Lisa starts to notice the coercive behaviour. Coming home one day with Bella her young daughter Lisa witnesses something horrifying, opening her eyes to who her husband truly is.
What happens next is a whirlwind of a journey as Lisa tries to escape and protect her daughter. But this isn’t any ordinary escape, as you know that Alex isn’t beyond using his position as a senior policeman to manipulate the story to his benefit. The twists and turns keeping you edge right until the end, at points luring you into that false sense of security.
This is a whirlwind of a psychological thriller exploring the depths of what victims and perpetrators are willing to go to in order to survive. The characters are well developed and I hated the husband from about chapter two, I felt the disappointment of Lisa when dealing with her brother and loved the vigilante plans of Lisa and her best friend to ensure Lisa’s survival and Alex’s downfall. Alex is the perfect villain, the villain that thinks they are untouchable and have the power of control to manipulate the story.
Violence, murder, coercive control (and a small scene of animal cruelty- just as a trigger warning) this is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat hoping for a satisfying ending, which for me was certainly delivered!
November 7, 2025
Let's Play Dead is a fast paced domestic, psychological thriller.
Lisa is a single mom who lost her husband. She meets a senior policeman, Alex, who works with her brother and after a whirlwind romance, they get married. Though, their relationship is moving fast, Lisa feels pretty confident in their relationship since he works with her twin brother and vouches that Alex is a good man. Alex also lost his wife in an accident. Or did he? Because right after the wedding, someone from his previous marriage reappears to warn Lisa that Alex is not a good man and may have murdered his wife. Lisa starts to take notice to Alex's behavior, change in his demeanor, possessiveness, and still, she gives doubt to what she's seeing. That is, until she finds a note left by his dead wife hiding behind the bed frame. In this note, Alex's dead wife is claiming that Alex is holding her hostage, poisoning her, and planning to kill her. Lisa knows she has to get her and her daughter out now, but with him working with the police and having unlimited resources to track her down, she has to go about this the smart way.
This story is thrilling and twisty. You can feel Lisa's desperation to escape Alex knowing the life of her daughter and herself may be on the line. This was enjoyable, fast pace, and twisty. Definitely check this one out.
Lisa is a single mom who lost her husband. She meets a senior policeman, Alex, who works with her brother and after a whirlwind romance, they get married. Though, their relationship is moving fast, Lisa feels pretty confident in their relationship since he works with her twin brother and vouches that Alex is a good man. Alex also lost his wife in an accident. Or did he? Because right after the wedding, someone from his previous marriage reappears to warn Lisa that Alex is not a good man and may have murdered his wife. Lisa starts to take notice to Alex's behavior, change in his demeanor, possessiveness, and still, she gives doubt to what she's seeing. That is, until she finds a note left by his dead wife hiding behind the bed frame. In this note, Alex's dead wife is claiming that Alex is holding her hostage, poisoning her, and planning to kill her. Lisa knows she has to get her and her daughter out now, but with him working with the police and having unlimited resources to track her down, she has to go about this the smart way.
This story is thrilling and twisty. You can feel Lisa's desperation to escape Alex knowing the life of her daughter and herself may be on the line. This was enjoyable, fast pace, and twisty. Definitely check this one out.
September 1, 2025
Let’s Play Dead is an addictive psychological thriller told from dual POVs.
Lisa is a vulnerable character who is swept up in a whirlwind romance by Alex which sounds wonderful but I immediately recognised several narcissistic traits in Alex and had my suspicions that all was not right.
The chapters told from Alex’s POV are exceptionally well written and give the reader a deep dive into the mind of a manipulative, controlling and abusive man.
The tension throughout the book is so taut that it feels like you could cut it with a knife and just when you think you’ve reached maximum tension the next twist hits you so hard and leaves you wondering what lengths Alex is capable of going to.
Having been a victim of narcissistic abuse this book hit really close to home with its haunting accuracy of how scary being in this situation truly is once you realise what’s happening.
For those who have never experienced this type of abuse this book is an absolutely realistic portrayal of the manipulation and control faced by anyone in a toxic, abusive relationship with a psychopathic narcissist.
Thank you to Zooloos Book Tours and the author for the free review copy.
Lisa is a vulnerable character who is swept up in a whirlwind romance by Alex which sounds wonderful but I immediately recognised several narcissistic traits in Alex and had my suspicions that all was not right.
The chapters told from Alex’s POV are exceptionally well written and give the reader a deep dive into the mind of a manipulative, controlling and abusive man.
The tension throughout the book is so taut that it feels like you could cut it with a knife and just when you think you’ve reached maximum tension the next twist hits you so hard and leaves you wondering what lengths Alex is capable of going to.
Having been a victim of narcissistic abuse this book hit really close to home with its haunting accuracy of how scary being in this situation truly is once you realise what’s happening.
For those who have never experienced this type of abuse this book is an absolutely realistic portrayal of the manipulation and control faced by anyone in a toxic, abusive relationship with a psychopathic narcissist.
Thank you to Zooloos Book Tours and the author for the free review copy.
September 1, 2025
This book is fantastic. I loved it from page one and could not stop reading it until the very end. I highly recommend "Let's Play Dead" to all of the suspense thriller fans out there. Check it out and let us know what you think.
After a whirlwind romance we are at the wedding of Lisa and Alex and she thinks she has found the perfect man even though her best friend Willow keeps telling her different. She has a four year old daughter. Bella from her first marriage. Alex says and does all of the right things and he seems to be everything that Lisa needs, a devoted husband and a caring stepfather for Bella. He has a great job being a senior policeman. Everybody seems to love Alex.
Another thing he has in common with Lisa is he has lost someone precious too. Lisa lost her husband to cancer and Alex's previous partner, Polly, passed away as well. Everything is great until Lisa finds a letter from Polly that indicates Alex is responsible for her death. Lisa fears that both her and Bella may be in mortal danger so she tries running away. But escaping from a man who wears a badge can be difficult if not impossible.
After a whirlwind romance we are at the wedding of Lisa and Alex and she thinks she has found the perfect man even though her best friend Willow keeps telling her different. She has a four year old daughter. Bella from her first marriage. Alex says and does all of the right things and he seems to be everything that Lisa needs, a devoted husband and a caring stepfather for Bella. He has a great job being a senior policeman. Everybody seems to love Alex.
Another thing he has in common with Lisa is he has lost someone precious too. Lisa lost her husband to cancer and Alex's previous partner, Polly, passed away as well. Everything is great until Lisa finds a letter from Polly that indicates Alex is responsible for her death. Lisa fears that both her and Bella may be in mortal danger so she tries running away. But escaping from a man who wears a badge can be difficult if not impossible.
September 2, 2025
There was a little bit of a slow start for me, but once the story hit its stride around the 20% mark, the suspense didn’t let up. It’s a fast paced ride, pulling us from Lisa’s unraveling marriage straight into her desperate attempt to escape. The plot kept twisting and escalating, always moving Lisa deeper into danger.
One thing that I struggled with was the inclusion of animal harm, which is something I personally find difficult to read. When something like that comes up (an extreme situation), I always like to think: was it necessary? Could the same point/impact have been made in a different way? And in this case, I believe it could have.
I found Alex’s POV to be an interesting addition to some of the chapters, but I would have loved to see a little more depth brought to his character. However, both Lisa and Willow felt fully layered and unique.
Overall, it was an interesting read, with a propulsive plot and high stakes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One thing that I struggled with was the inclusion of animal harm, which is something I personally find difficult to read. When something like that comes up (an extreme situation), I always like to think: was it necessary? Could the same point/impact have been made in a different way? And in this case, I believe it could have.
I found Alex’s POV to be an interesting addition to some of the chapters, but I would have loved to see a little more depth brought to his character. However, both Lisa and Willow felt fully layered and unique.
Overall, it was an interesting read, with a propulsive plot and high stakes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2025
What an enthralling story of survival for a newly wed wife and her daughter.
When Lisa, a widowed mother of a young daughter falls for a widowed police
officer called Alex, she seems to think her happy ever after may be giving her a second chance in life…. but is it?
Lisa discovers a letter from Alex’s previous wife Polly, which leaves her with warning signs and a sense of unease, these have been previously told by Polly’s sister after she was thwarted at the wedding by Alex’s fellow colleagues who turn out to be more corrupt than honest…
How long can Lisa and her daughter stay safe for while married to a dangerous psychopathic monster.
Sometimes you have to bite the bullet and run to try and save yourself, hoping it works and doesn’t put you or others in more danger than before….. the only problem is, without a passport you're limited to distance and when police corruption is involved - it won’t be long until the law comes knocking.
An absolutely fantastic story
keeping you on the edge of your seat at every page.
When Lisa, a widowed mother of a young daughter falls for a widowed police
officer called Alex, she seems to think her happy ever after may be giving her a second chance in life…. but is it?
Lisa discovers a letter from Alex’s previous wife Polly, which leaves her with warning signs and a sense of unease, these have been previously told by Polly’s sister after she was thwarted at the wedding by Alex’s fellow colleagues who turn out to be more corrupt than honest…
How long can Lisa and her daughter stay safe for while married to a dangerous psychopathic monster.
Sometimes you have to bite the bullet and run to try and save yourself, hoping it works and doesn’t put you or others in more danger than before….. the only problem is, without a passport you're limited to distance and when police corruption is involved - it won’t be long until the law comes knocking.
An absolutely fantastic story
keeping you on the edge of your seat at every page.
November 27, 2025
Newlywed Lisa, has moved into her policeman husband Alex's home, along with her your daughter Bella.
At first everything is wonderful, and Alex dotes on Bella as if she were his own. Both Lisa & Alex had lost their previous partners, and so can help each other through their grief.
However, things take a sinister turn, when the sister of Alex's first wife Polly, turns up on the doorstep, telling Lisa that Alex had killed her. Lisa has also discovered a hidden letter that had been written by Polly, saying that she was being held against her will.
Lisa soon finds herself plotting her escape, after she walks in on a scene that scares her. It looks like Alex is trying to drown their young puppy, but he shrugs it off, saying that he was trying to give it a bath, and that it was struggling. This event makes her wonder just what her new husband is capable of.
This book was a real page turner, and I can't tell you just how much I enjoyed it. You just need to read it for yourself!!
A perfect psychological thriller that will keep you reading until the early hours.
At first everything is wonderful, and Alex dotes on Bella as if she were his own. Both Lisa & Alex had lost their previous partners, and so can help each other through their grief.
However, things take a sinister turn, when the sister of Alex's first wife Polly, turns up on the doorstep, telling Lisa that Alex had killed her. Lisa has also discovered a hidden letter that had been written by Polly, saying that she was being held against her will.
Lisa soon finds herself plotting her escape, after she walks in on a scene that scares her. It looks like Alex is trying to drown their young puppy, but he shrugs it off, saying that he was trying to give it a bath, and that it was struggling. This event makes her wonder just what her new husband is capable of.
This book was a real page turner, and I can't tell you just how much I enjoyed it. You just need to read it for yourself!!
A perfect psychological thriller that will keep you reading until the early hours.
August 31, 2025
🧸ARC REVIEW🧸
Available now on KU and Amazon paperback
“Pretending to be dead isn’t easy. But it’s even harder to live a life that’s slowly being poisoned by distrust, violence and fear“
“Tis not a year or two shows us a man. They are all but stomachs, and we all but food; they eat us hungerly, and when they are full, they belch us.” -Shakespeare-
“Men might not have changed much in the four hundred years since Shakespeare wrote Othello, but women have.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Easily 5 stars. One of the BEST domestic thrillers I’ve read this year! I loved the writing style, the fast paced plot, the suspense and the character development. HIGHLY recommend. Literally go read it now. A sleeper hit.
Thank you @netgalley @inkubatorbooks
#netgalley #letsplaydead #domesticthriller #thrillerbooks #thrillerbooksaddict #thrillerreads #bookstagram #fyp
Available now on KU and Amazon paperback
“Pretending to be dead isn’t easy. But it’s even harder to live a life that’s slowly being poisoned by distrust, violence and fear“
“Tis not a year or two shows us a man. They are all but stomachs, and we all but food; they eat us hungerly, and when they are full, they belch us.” -Shakespeare-
“Men might not have changed much in the four hundred years since Shakespeare wrote Othello, but women have.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Easily 5 stars. One of the BEST domestic thrillers I’ve read this year! I loved the writing style, the fast paced plot, the suspense and the character development. HIGHLY recommend. Literally go read it now. A sleeper hit.
Thank you @netgalley @inkubatorbooks
#netgalley #letsplaydead #domesticthriller #thrillerbooks #thrillerbooksaddict #thrillerreads #bookstagram #fyp
September 10, 2025
This was a fast-paced read that had me hooked from the outset.
I instantly connected with Lisa and could totally see the initial attraction of finding love again after losing your partner.
But I totally got bad vibes from Alex pretty early on and given his official status as a policeman, I just knew that this would have me on edge, but hooked.
There were some tough topics explored through this story, so definitely check out those content warnings before reading.
These were sensitively written and felt authentic, which made them hit hard, but again, this had me racing on to find out just how Lisa would manage to escape and keep her daughter safe too.
The writing was tense throughout and the fact that each chapter seemed to leave us hanging, I just had to keep reading on.
I really struggled to pull myself away from this one.
I love a dual pov format as this really allows us to see the events from.both sides - but this also allows us to delve into the minds, thoughts and feelings of both characters, which obviously at times felt uncomfortable.
I mean that in the best way for this genre!
This was my second read by this author and I've loved both books so far!
I can't wait to see what comes next .....
I instantly connected with Lisa and could totally see the initial attraction of finding love again after losing your partner.
But I totally got bad vibes from Alex pretty early on and given his official status as a policeman, I just knew that this would have me on edge, but hooked.
There were some tough topics explored through this story, so definitely check out those content warnings before reading.
These were sensitively written and felt authentic, which made them hit hard, but again, this had me racing on to find out just how Lisa would manage to escape and keep her daughter safe too.
The writing was tense throughout and the fact that each chapter seemed to leave us hanging, I just had to keep reading on.
I really struggled to pull myself away from this one.
I love a dual pov format as this really allows us to see the events from.both sides - but this also allows us to delve into the minds, thoughts and feelings of both characters, which obviously at times felt uncomfortable.
I mean that in the best way for this genre!
This was my second read by this author and I've loved both books so far!
I can't wait to see what comes next .....
December 26, 2025
The whole thing started out decent enough until the author switched from Lisa's POV to Alex's POV without warning. I was floundering until I figured it out. When Alex left a bruise on Lisa, he wasn't even remorseful. And the blatant abuse of Alex's position with the police allowed him some leeway to kill his first wife after she had an abortion. Must have been a reason for that, but we weren't told. I found it very difficult to believe the "overdose" as cause of death for Willow because we're never told if she used any drugs. Alex turns off the recording device in the interrogation room, but somehow forgot that there's a one-way mirror and a way to listen. I, personally, was left wondering about Lisa's new baby at the end. How much time had passed from the time Alex confessed to the epilogue?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
This is my second book by Elena and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The storyline is difficult at times as it covers domestic violence, manipulation and suicide. I took an instant dislike to the main male character Alex who despite his high rank status in the Police is in fact little more than a psychopathic bully who uses his authority to his advantage. You kind of know where the story is heading from the outset but this is I think deliberate and necessary to the story. The main female lead Lisa is a strong and determined woman who will stop at nothing to protect her little girl. The way in which Alex pursues Lisa is dramatic and quite scary at times. I highly recommend this book although would suggest checking TW before reading.
August 31, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa marries police officer Alex. What begins as a charming, fairy-tale marriage soon unravels into chaos when Lisa discovers clues suggesting Alex may have unalived his first wife. Determined to protect herself and her daughter, she goes on the run, but escaping Alex may be far more dangerous than she ever imagined.
You won't be able to put this psychological thriller down. From the moment you start, you'll be on the edge of your seat thanks to its fast-paced plot, menacing villain, and characters you can't help but root for. The suspense is expertly maintained throughout, culminating in a series of twists and a conclusion that will leave you completely satisfied.
After a whirlwind romance, widow Lisa marries police officer Alex. What begins as a charming, fairy-tale marriage soon unravels into chaos when Lisa discovers clues suggesting Alex may have unalived his first wife. Determined to protect herself and her daughter, she goes on the run, but escaping Alex may be far more dangerous than she ever imagined.
You won't be able to put this psychological thriller down. From the moment you start, you'll be on the edge of your seat thanks to its fast-paced plot, menacing villain, and characters you can't help but root for. The suspense is expertly maintained throughout, culminating in a series of twists and a conclusion that will leave you completely satisfied.
August 26, 2025
2.75 stars for me. We meet Lisa on her wedding day, getting married to senior policeman Alex. After she and her daughter Bella settles in, she find out that Alex may killed his first wife Polly,that her death was not a accident. Lisa at first don't believe this accusation ,but Alex's behavior at times was not the charming husband she thought she married. Lisa decided to find out the truth, and get away from her husband.
Will Lisa and her daughter ever be safe?
It was a quick and ok read for me, but I got the feeling that the plot was revealed to fast.
Still it's a good read full of suspense and tension.
Thank you for arc copy.
Will Lisa and her daughter ever be safe?
It was a quick and ok read for me, but I got the feeling that the plot was revealed to fast.
Still it's a good read full of suspense and tension.
Thank you for arc copy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews