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Replaced: A domestic suspense thriller
A dead husband's secret. A dangerous imposter.
When she replaces you, she takes everything.
Juliette Samson thought widowhood was her worst nightmare, but her husband’s death was just the opening move in a twisted game. When a stranger shows up claiming to be her husband’s real wife, Juliette discovers she's been outmaneuvered from the start.
While struggling to expose the woman as a fraud, Juliette realizes the deception has been months in the making, systematically targeting her life. And when the courts award the interloper Juliette’s home along with custody of her daughter, she realizes her enemy controls everyone she once trusted. Can Juliette expose the deadly conspiracy before she loses her life forever?
When she replaces you, she takes everything.
Juliette Samson thought widowhood was her worst nightmare, but her husband’s death was just the opening move in a twisted game. When a stranger shows up claiming to be her husband’s real wife, Juliette discovers she's been outmaneuvered from the start.
While struggling to expose the woman as a fraud, Juliette realizes the deception has been months in the making, systematically targeting her life. And when the courts award the interloper Juliette’s home along with custody of her daughter, she realizes her enemy controls everyone she once trusted. Can Juliette expose the deadly conspiracy before she loses her life forever?
Unknown Binding
First published September 30, 2025
162 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Kreml
9 books15 followersStephanie Kreml writes mysteries and thrillers after working as an engineer, a physician, and a life science consultant. She lives with her family in Austin, Texas.
Sign up for her newsletter and receive a FREE copy of the prequel novella to the Dr. Samantha Jenkins Mysteries Series.
Visit www.stephaniekreml.com to learn more.
Sign up for her newsletter and receive a FREE copy of the prequel novella to the Dr. Samantha Jenkins Mysteries Series.
Visit www.stephaniekreml.com to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 13, 2025
ARC review*** By the end of chapter two, I knew I wasn’t putting this book down. I needed to know what happened, who all the players were, and what were their roles in the story. I loved how Juliette never gave up, although how many times something awoke inside her was a bit much. Feels like she should have 7 different personalities by the end of the book. Setting that repetition aside, I thoroughly enjoyed myself reading this book. And I recommend it to all readers who enjoy a nice mystery.
October 11, 2025
*Thanks so much to Stephanie Kreml for an ARC of this book.*
This book was so much fun to read! Not in the lighthearted fun to read sense, but in the can’t put it down fun to read sense. Don’t start this book unless you have a dedicated block of time to finish it!
After Juliette’s husband, Peter, dies her world quickly unravels. We meet one of the main protagonists, Eva, at his funeral and things accelerate quickly from there! Eva along with Peter’s business partner Sebastian set their sights on taking over Juliette’s business, family, basically her whole life. When they come for Juliette’s daughter Lucy, her momma-bear instincts hit high gear. From that point in the book I couldn’t put it down. Kreml does a fantastic job making the reader think, “omg what is going on here and how is it going to resolve?”
As others have said the story isn’t always 100% believable. I would like to think the judicial system wouldn’t work the way it was described. But, this is fiction! If you’re someone that can put that aside and just enjoy the story, the ride, and the emotions you’ll feel this is a great book!
This book was so much fun to read! Not in the lighthearted fun to read sense, but in the can’t put it down fun to read sense. Don’t start this book unless you have a dedicated block of time to finish it!
After Juliette’s husband, Peter, dies her world quickly unravels. We meet one of the main protagonists, Eva, at his funeral and things accelerate quickly from there! Eva along with Peter’s business partner Sebastian set their sights on taking over Juliette’s business, family, basically her whole life. When they come for Juliette’s daughter Lucy, her momma-bear instincts hit high gear. From that point in the book I couldn’t put it down. Kreml does a fantastic job making the reader think, “omg what is going on here and how is it going to resolve?”
As others have said the story isn’t always 100% believable. I would like to think the judicial system wouldn’t work the way it was described. But, this is fiction! If you’re someone that can put that aside and just enjoy the story, the ride, and the emotions you’ll feel this is a great book!
October 12, 2025
**This is an ARC review**
I finished the whole book in one evening. While the first third seemed difficult to make it through--perhaps due to just how frustrating the protagonist's predicament was--the pacing of this thriller picked up after this point. I found the characters to be enjoyable and realistic and was engaged in making it to the end of this mystery as the plot developed. The writing itself is of a good quality as well. Occasionally, I felt like the closing sentence of each chapter felt a bit repetitive, reassuring the ferocity of a mother who has been wronged, but I think I only noticed this or felt this way because I read the book so fast! This thriller is fast-paced and makes you not want to put it now. There were definitely a lot of tense moments that made me feel nervous from the other side of the pages.
I'd give this book a 4.5/5--a solid read. This book has made me want to look into other's this author has written.
I finished the whole book in one evening. While the first third seemed difficult to make it through--perhaps due to just how frustrating the protagonist's predicament was--the pacing of this thriller picked up after this point. I found the characters to be enjoyable and realistic and was engaged in making it to the end of this mystery as the plot developed. The writing itself is of a good quality as well. Occasionally, I felt like the closing sentence of each chapter felt a bit repetitive, reassuring the ferocity of a mother who has been wronged, but I think I only noticed this or felt this way because I read the book so fast! This thriller is fast-paced and makes you not want to put it now. There were definitely a lot of tense moments that made me feel nervous from the other side of the pages.
I'd give this book a 4.5/5--a solid read. This book has made me want to look into other's this author has written.
December 6, 2025
Easily one of the best books I’ve ever read! Such a unique story line and perfect execution. The twists and sabotage just kept coming. Read it in one day because I couldn’t put it down!
October 3, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book. This was a FAST paced twisty thriller that I could not put down from chapter 2 (literally - I binged it in a night). I’ve rated it 4.25 as at times it felt a bit unbelievable, and the motivations behind those involved felt a bit lacking - would have loved it to be a bit more fleshed out. But overall it was a great read that has left my heart racing right before bed.
October 2, 2025
*Thanks so much to Stephanie Kreml for an ARC of this book. This review contains my honest, authentic thoughts and opinions.*
The worst thing in the world is losing your spouse, right? REPLACED shows us that so much worse can happen. For the protagonist, Juliette Samson, losing her husband was only the first of many distressing and traumatizing events that happens to her. She starts to lose literally everything, and we have to watch her life crumble little by little until it’s a lot by a lot.
This novel, for me, felt like a Netflix original I couldn’t pause. A string of devastating events that made me literally hold my breath. The amount of crap Juliette goes through made me so irate that it literally hurt my stomach. Not that I loved that feeling, but it’s a testament to Kreml that I felt like Juliette’s anxiety was also my anxiety. This book was the epitome of a nonstop thriller, forcing you to impart yourself in the quickly devolving plot.
I really did enjoy this book, contrary to how I physically responded to it (lol). I have three English-related degrees, and I taught AP Literature for a decade. I say that merely to give what I’m about to say some credibility. I have read and analyzed and devoured a lot of literature over the last few decades. Rarely do I have visceral reactions like I did for this one. And I say that as a double-edged sword. While I did feel immersed in this book, my one piece of criticism is an extension of that. I felt like there was so much that happened that I became so exhausted. It felt like there was zero relief until about 80% through the novel. This is only MY personal issue. And let’s be honest, this doesn’t mean the novel does something “wrong.” It just became a little too much for ME.
Regardless, Kreml is a skilled storyteller who has clearly done her research. I’m excited to venture into her Truth series.
The worst thing in the world is losing your spouse, right? REPLACED shows us that so much worse can happen. For the protagonist, Juliette Samson, losing her husband was only the first of many distressing and traumatizing events that happens to her. She starts to lose literally everything, and we have to watch her life crumble little by little until it’s a lot by a lot.
This novel, for me, felt like a Netflix original I couldn’t pause. A string of devastating events that made me literally hold my breath. The amount of crap Juliette goes through made me so irate that it literally hurt my stomach. Not that I loved that feeling, but it’s a testament to Kreml that I felt like Juliette’s anxiety was also my anxiety. This book was the epitome of a nonstop thriller, forcing you to impart yourself in the quickly devolving plot.
I really did enjoy this book, contrary to how I physically responded to it (lol). I have three English-related degrees, and I taught AP Literature for a decade. I say that merely to give what I’m about to say some credibility. I have read and analyzed and devoured a lot of literature over the last few decades. Rarely do I have visceral reactions like I did for this one. And I say that as a double-edged sword. While I did feel immersed in this book, my one piece of criticism is an extension of that. I felt like there was so much that happened that I became so exhausted. It felt like there was zero relief until about 80% through the novel. This is only MY personal issue. And let’s be honest, this doesn’t mean the novel does something “wrong.” It just became a little too much for ME.
Regardless, Kreml is a skilled storyteller who has clearly done her research. I’m excited to venture into her Truth series.
October 8, 2025
Imagine losing your husband and then learning someone is taking over your life. Juliette’s husband Peter has just died and she is rightfully devastated. However, that’s not the worst part. She begins to realize that someone name Eva is taking over her life. She claims to be married to Peter and systematically moves to take everything from Juliette including her and Peter’s daughter, Lucy.
This was a wild ride. It was so fast paced and just kept me wanting to read. Stephanie did a fantastic job crafting this story. It felt so real and as the story progressed my jaw dropped over and over. I couldn’t believe what was happening to Juliette and Lucy. It makes you wonder how far would one go to protect what is theirs?
Read this book, you won’t be disappointed! Thanks to Stephanie for an ARC of this book. These opinions are solely my own.
This was a wild ride. It was so fast paced and just kept me wanting to read. Stephanie did a fantastic job crafting this story. It felt so real and as the story progressed my jaw dropped over and over. I couldn’t believe what was happening to Juliette and Lucy. It makes you wonder how far would one go to protect what is theirs?
Read this book, you won’t be disappointed! Thanks to Stephanie for an ARC of this book. These opinions are solely my own.
October 13, 2025
Replaced has a great plot that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. It’s a really engaging read with plenty of tension and twists. That said, there were a few small gaps for me. For example, I would’ve liked to know more about how Michael was fooled by Eva if Peter wasn’t involved. If Peter was involved, why was there no apology or explanation for Juliette? I also found myself feeling angry on Juliette’s behalf when she couldn’t get any help from the police or the courts.
Overall, a great read that kept me hooked and thinking about it afterward. Definitely one I’d recommend!
Thank you to the author for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Overall, a great read that kept me hooked and thinking about it afterward. Definitely one I’d recommend!
Thank you to the author for the ARC. This is my honest review.
October 1, 2025
Juliette has lost her beloved husband, Peter. Left alone with her 6 year old daughter, Lucy, she must move on with her life. But, the loss of her husband is just the beginning! She is about to lose so much more.....
This book grabbed me from page 1. As a matter of fact I literally couldn't put it down, reading most of it the first day I got it! There are twists and turns, people who should be trusted can't be, and so much more. A frightening game of keep-a-way with little Lucy in the middle! Get this book right away! I promise you won't be disappointed.
This book grabbed me from page 1. As a matter of fact I literally couldn't put it down, reading most of it the first day I got it! There are twists and turns, people who should be trusted can't be, and so much more. A frightening game of keep-a-way with little Lucy in the middle! Get this book right away! I promise you won't be disappointed.
November 30, 2025
I was hooked immediately and could not put this book down until I read the last page! Fast-paced, and full of twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what’s going to happen next and if justice will be served.
This was my first time reading anything by Stephanie, but it will definitely not be my last. I love her writing style and the way she creates her characters—they felt so authentic and I really connected to them. I’m so thankful to have been an arc reader for this book.
This was my first time reading anything by Stephanie, but it will definitely not be my last. I love her writing style and the way she creates her characters—they felt so authentic and I really connected to them. I’m so thankful to have been an arc reader for this book.
October 10, 2025
It’s seldom that I read a thriller for which I miss predictions…there’s a serious lack of novels that can provide a twist that surprises me. The pace begins fairly quick and continues to ramp up speed with each new frustrating situation the main character encounters. I ended up staying up VERY late by the end of the book! The tempo was fierce, the plot was twisting and turning with suspense, and resolution was ultimately unsuspected. Thank you Stephanie Kreml for the ARC copy. Highly recommend!
October 1, 2025
I really like a good story that is very unusual (in a good way). This one fits that and is a suspense thriller, which I also like. The end brought everything together very well. I couldn't stop reading, had to see what would happen! I would recommend this to readers who like good, clean, suspense.
October 9, 2025
Replaced is a fast-paced mystery thriller that although it's easy to imagine how it'll end it's well-written, with very emotional parts where Juliette and her daughter Lucy see their lives being usurped from them. Lies are fabricated, the system that was supposed to protect is corrupted, and they'll have to fight for their lives. Juliette will have to transform herself into a hardened woman to be able to uncover the truth and have her daughter back with her.
I thank the author for this ARC.
I thank the author for this ARC.
October 3, 2025
Incredible story! The reader is quickly drawn into the mind games being played. Kreml’s choice of words and descriptions are so clear that you feel like you are inside the story. Heartbreaking, enraging, terrifying and thrilling all at the same time!
Thank you Stephanie Kreml
Thank you Stephanie Kreml
October 5, 2025
*ARC Review*
The tension in this book is off the charts. I had such a sense of dread as each step happened, worrying how Juliette was going to manage to counteract the allegations against her. She was such a sympathetic character, a woman taking care of sick family who missed a setup occuring around her. Even when she made mistakes, you were rooting for her to win. I only wish that a bit more time had been spent on the resolution of the story.
The tension in this book is off the charts. I had such a sense of dread as each step happened, worrying how Juliette was going to manage to counteract the allegations against her. She was such a sympathetic character, a woman taking care of sick family who missed a setup occuring around her. Even when she made mistakes, you were rooting for her to win. I only wish that a bit more time had been spent on the resolution of the story.
October 12, 2025
Edge of the seat thriller. Very fast moving. Couldn't put it down. Loved the references to the legal system.
October 12, 2025
Really gripping thriller with a satisfying ending. The characters were really well written and believable, and I found myself trying to figure out what was going to happen at every turn
October 8, 2025
A suspenseful quick read that feels like it could easily be reality in this age of AI and corruption. I did have moments of frustration with the lead character but then how would I have reacted in her shoes? I could definitely see a sequel for this, not knowing how things play out in the aftermath.
November 19, 2025
One of the best books I've read this year! This will make your blood pressure go up and stay up!
November 2, 2025
Replaced
Never think someone can't come into your life and not change the very foundation
Upon which you built your life. I would advise anyone who wants to read a well written thriller to buy this book. It keeps you in suspense through the whole book.
Never think someone can't come into your life and not change the very foundation
Upon which you built your life. I would advise anyone who wants to read a well written thriller to buy this book. It keeps you in suspense through the whole book.
October 20, 2025
This has to be one of the best books I’ve read all year – sufficiently realistic to make you wonder what you would do if the same thing happened to you – but at the same time you would hope that life doesn’t imitate this fiction, surely life wouldn’t in reality be so cruel. But you have to wonder……
The characters in this book definitely held you from the start – you can’t help but take sides, and wonder just what next would fall into Juliette’s path for her to deal with. The storyline was so powerful that it drew you in and made you feel like you were there watching from the sidelines, and wishing you could reach out and help Juliette in some way. It isn’t often when I come across a book that I wish I had more reading time; I found myself glaring at the clock late at night knowing I couldn’t have “just one more chapter”….
Definitely one to put on your reading list if you like a great, fast paced read that tugs at your heartstrings and keeps you turning those pages way past your bedtime.
Thanks to Stephanie for allowing me to read an ARC of this book, I am very happy to share my review of this fabulous book.
The characters in this book definitely held you from the start – you can’t help but take sides, and wonder just what next would fall into Juliette’s path for her to deal with. The storyline was so powerful that it drew you in and made you feel like you were there watching from the sidelines, and wishing you could reach out and help Juliette in some way. It isn’t often when I come across a book that I wish I had more reading time; I found myself glaring at the clock late at night knowing I couldn’t have “just one more chapter”….
Definitely one to put on your reading list if you like a great, fast paced read that tugs at your heartstrings and keeps you turning those pages way past your bedtime.
Thanks to Stephanie for allowing me to read an ARC of this book, I am very happy to share my review of this fabulous book.
October 11, 2025
This novel was a nonstop ride of drama and thrill! The main character’s woes and fears were definitely contagious and it was easy to imagine myself in her shoes. Days after finishing it I’m still thinking about stolen identities! I’d say the only weak point was that the motivations and capabilities of the antagonists were a little hard to believe at times. Overall this is a great story to put you on the edge of your seat and rage against the American judicial system!
December 13, 2025
Replacing Is Good
Excellent thriller in plot pacing, character development, and writing style. Readers are drawn into the story and “feel” the emotions. Only critique: the ending is a little too quick and a little too neat. Loose ends are all pulled together in one chapter but deserved a more believable timeline of resolution.
Excellent thriller in plot pacing, character development, and writing style. Readers are drawn into the story and “feel” the emotions. Only critique: the ending is a little too quick and a little too neat. Loose ends are all pulled together in one chapter but deserved a more believable timeline of resolution.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews