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Broken Vows #2
The First Widows
Some people will do anything for family. Even kill for it…
When Sophia, a wealthy woman far from home, meets Rebecca, a struggling nurse and mother, at a paint-and-sip class in New York, their friendship unfolds just as you might expect.
The lonely outsider finds her place. The overwhelmed mother gets the help she desperately needs. The two women save each other.
But that’s only the beginning.
The first time Sophia reads Rebecca’s journal, it’s curiosity. The next time, it’s desperation.
Because she’s realized she’s not the only one in this house with secrets…
A dark, twisting domestic thriller for fans of Freida McFadden and Jeneva Rose, about the people we trust, and the ones who destroy us.
When Sophia, a wealthy woman far from home, meets Rebecca, a struggling nurse and mother, at a paint-and-sip class in New York, their friendship unfolds just as you might expect.
The lonely outsider finds her place. The overwhelmed mother gets the help she desperately needs. The two women save each other.
But that’s only the beginning.
The first time Sophia reads Rebecca’s journal, it’s curiosity. The next time, it’s desperation.
Because she’s realized she’s not the only one in this house with secrets…
A dark, twisting domestic thriller for fans of Freida McFadden and Jeneva Rose, about the people we trust, and the ones who destroy us.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2026
About the author
S.E. Reed
15 books149 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
May 8, 2026
3.75⭐
Genre ~ domestic fiction
Series ~ Broken Vows #2
Others in the series ~ The First Wives
Setting ~ New York City
Publication date ~ March 23, 2026
Publisher ~ Dreamscape Media
Est Page Count ~ 314 (p+ 39 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 15 minutes
Narrator ~ Caitlin Shannon
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ 2 parts, toxic friendship, unreliable narrator
The prologue pulled me right in.
Rebecca is a nurse, mom of two, married to Mitch and a wannabee Broadway actress.
Sophia and Rebecca meet by chance, or is it? They quickly become friends and she even moves in to tend to the girls. A bit sketch how that all happened so quickly.
We get a chapter from the toolbox Mitch. Yeah, he's a pediatric heart surgeon, but still a tool nonetheless.
Rebecca is painfully unlikable. She frequently snapped at the children and seemed unhinged at times.
Overall, there were some tense moments, a nice twist and I was quite pleased with the ending.
Narration notes:
She did do fine, but I do wish we had 2 different female narrators since it's dual POV. I did like her tone for Rebecca which gave her an agitated sound because that's exactly how she seemed most of the time.
Series notes:
As you can see below I was less than thrilled that I had already began listening when I found out it was possibly part of a series. Well turns out that Sophia plays a big part in both stories, and we even have a pop in from Hannah, so I think it's best to read The First Wives first. **Now listed on Amazon as a series!
Currently reading notes:
I ended up reading The First Wives first and I gotta say I’m glad I did as Sophia is pretty much a main character in both books, so not sure why the author hasn’t tagged this as a series.
Ugh! 27% in and just found out one of the main characters was in the book The First Wives. Anyone read both and can tell me if I need to stop and go read that one first? I hate when it's not mentioned anywhere 😠
Genre ~ domestic fiction
Series ~ Broken Vows #2
Others in the series ~ The First Wives
Setting ~ New York City
Publication date ~ March 23, 2026
Publisher ~ Dreamscape Media
Est Page Count ~ 314 (p+ 39 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 15 minutes
Narrator ~ Caitlin Shannon
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ 2 parts, toxic friendship, unreliable narrator
The prologue pulled me right in.
Rebecca is a nurse, mom of two, married to Mitch and a wannabee Broadway actress.
Sophia and Rebecca meet by chance, or is it? They quickly become friends and she even moves in to tend to the girls. A bit sketch how that all happened so quickly.
We get a chapter from the toolbox Mitch. Yeah, he's a pediatric heart surgeon, but still a tool nonetheless.
Rebecca is painfully unlikable. She frequently snapped at the children and seemed unhinged at times.
Overall, there were some tense moments, a nice twist and I was quite pleased with the ending.
Narration notes:
She did do fine, but I do wish we had 2 different female narrators since it's dual POV. I did like her tone for Rebecca which gave her an agitated sound because that's exactly how she seemed most of the time.
Series notes:
As you can see below I was less than thrilled that I had already began listening when I found out it was possibly part of a series. Well turns out that Sophia plays a big part in both stories, and we even have a pop in from Hannah, so I think it's best to read The First Wives first. **Now listed on Amazon as a series!
Currently reading notes:
I ended up reading The First Wives first and I gotta say I’m glad I did as Sophia is pretty much a main character in both books, so not sure why the author hasn’t tagged this as a series.
Ugh! 27% in and just found out one of the main characters was in the book The First Wives. Anyone read both and can tell me if I need to stop and go read that one first? I hate when it's not mentioned anywhere 😠
April 10, 2026
I read this in less than 24 hours. Could not stop.
Something about the dynamic between Sophia and Rebecca just felt wrong from the beginning, but not in an obvious way. It’s more like… you know you shouldn’t trust what you’re reading, but you don’t know why yet, so you just keep going.
The plot is not typical at all. It’s not trying to shock you every five seconds. It just slowly builds this tension through their relationship and the control and manipulation between them, and before you realize it, you’re fully in it.
Every chapter made me keep going. No slow parts. No skimming. Just straight through.
It’s definitely darker and more character driven than plot driven, but that’s what made it work for me.
I finished it and immediately needed a minute.
Something about the dynamic between Sophia and Rebecca just felt wrong from the beginning, but not in an obvious way. It’s more like… you know you shouldn’t trust what you’re reading, but you don’t know why yet, so you just keep going.
The plot is not typical at all. It’s not trying to shock you every five seconds. It just slowly builds this tension through their relationship and the control and manipulation between them, and before you realize it, you’re fully in it.
Every chapter made me keep going. No slow parts. No skimming. Just straight through.
It’s definitely darker and more character driven than plot driven, but that’s what made it work for me.
I finished it and immediately needed a minute.
April 5, 2026
First of all, thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. This is the first book I have read from this author, and let me tell you... I didn't expect to love it this much. The author had me HOOKED from the first chapter. I finished it in literally ONE day. This is the type of thriller that you are DYING to know what will happen. Highly recommend this one, and I am going to go order my copy now.
May 11, 2026
Dark, tense, and full of uneasy dynamics, this domestic thriller kept me questioning everyone’s motives from the start. The friendship between Rebecca and Sophia slowly unravels in a way that feels both unsettling and addictive to read. While the pacing dipped slightly in the middle, the twists and emotional ending completely pulled me back in. A solid pick for fans of character-driven psychological thrillers.
March 30, 2026
Wow! This completely took me by surprise. Was the writing perfect? No—but I absolutely loved it!! I genuinely didn’t want it to end, so imagine my excitement when I finished this review and peeked around to see there’s a connected book that comes before it.
While this absolutely works as a standalone, the FMC is featured in The First Wives, and after reading that description, it seems like it fills in a few light questions I had. That said, if I hadn’t known about the first book, those lingering questions wouldn’t have impacted my enjoyment. Not everything needs to be fully spelled out to make a story satisfying.
I did toy with rounding this down a star because of the narration. On the positive side, Caitlin Shannon has a really pleasant, easy-to-listen-to voice. Her diction is clear, and she does a solid job navigating both American and British accents. However, there were some noticeable issues. The consistency of certain character voices wavered at times, which could be a bit distracting. More importantly, there were several word mispronunciations throughout the audiobook. Once you catch one, it’s hard not to keep noticing them, and it definitely pulled me out of the story more than I would have liked.
Even with those issues, I was completely invested. The pacing kept me engaged, and I found myself eager to keep listening whenever I had a chance. This ended up being such a fun and unexpectedly gripping read for me.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary ALC from Dreamscape Media via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
While this absolutely works as a standalone, the FMC is featured in The First Wives, and after reading that description, it seems like it fills in a few light questions I had. That said, if I hadn’t known about the first book, those lingering questions wouldn’t have impacted my enjoyment. Not everything needs to be fully spelled out to make a story satisfying.
I did toy with rounding this down a star because of the narration. On the positive side, Caitlin Shannon has a really pleasant, easy-to-listen-to voice. Her diction is clear, and she does a solid job navigating both American and British accents. However, there were some noticeable issues. The consistency of certain character voices wavered at times, which could be a bit distracting. More importantly, there were several word mispronunciations throughout the audiobook. Once you catch one, it’s hard not to keep noticing them, and it definitely pulled me out of the story more than I would have liked.
Even with those issues, I was completely invested. The pacing kept me engaged, and I found myself eager to keep listening whenever I had a chance. This ended up being such a fun and unexpectedly gripping read for me.
I am thankful to have received a complimentary ALC from Dreamscape Media via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
January 31, 2026
I read The First Wives last year and absolutely loved it — an easy 5-star read. So naturally, The First Widows went straight onto my TBR the moment it was announced. And somehow… I think I loved this one even more.
This is a seriously addictive domestic thriller. The kind that pulls you in quickly and quietly tightens its grip until suddenly you’re racing through chapters because you have to know how it’s going to unfold. The tension builds steadily, the character dynamics are compelling, and the sense of unease is handled so well.
S.E. Reed has a real knack for writing relationships that feel intimate but unsettling — you’re constantly questioning motives, trust, and just how much you truly know about the people on the page.
Two books into this series and both have been solid 5-star reads for me. A genuine 10 / 10 series so far, and one I’d absolutely recommend adding to your TBR.
This is a seriously addictive domestic thriller. The kind that pulls you in quickly and quietly tightens its grip until suddenly you’re racing through chapters because you have to know how it’s going to unfold. The tension builds steadily, the character dynamics are compelling, and the sense of unease is handled so well.
S.E. Reed has a real knack for writing relationships that feel intimate but unsettling — you’re constantly questioning motives, trust, and just how much you truly know about the people on the page.
Two books into this series and both have been solid 5-star reads for me. A genuine 10 / 10 series so far, and one I’d absolutely recommend adding to your TBR.
March 10, 2026
If this is a representation of S.E. Reed's books then I need them all! The First Widows is not your typical domestic thriller where you have a housewife that lives a double life and everything is quite predictable. Yes, we do have a wife and mother in this thriller who is encouraged by her husband to become a housewife, and yes she lives a double life, but it's absolutely insane! The suspense, the jaw-dropping moments, the truth about Sophia and Rebecca- all of it will have you craving more. I was left at a loss for words by the time I was done with this book.
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and S. E. Reed for this ARC!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and S. E. Reed for this ARC!
March 29, 2026
THE FIRST WIDOWS by S.E. Reed is a twisty psychological domestic thriller focused on themes of toxic friendship, manipulation, and the secrets hidden within marriages. It acts as a follow-up to The First Wives, featuring the character Sophia.
Highlights...
My thoughts...
THE FIRST WIDOWS is a fast-paced "unputdownable" thriller with "morally grey" characters and a satisfying, albeit twisty, ending.
The plot follows a dark, twisting friendship between two women that quickly turns toxic. A domestic thriller centered on the theme that some people will do anything for family—even kill for it. This sets a theme of distorted loyalty where the "safety" of the family unit justifies horrific actions.
The story explores the danger of letting a stranger into your most intimate spaces. It questions how quickly we can "trust" someone who appears to be exactly what we need, only for that trust to be used as a weapon.
In a dark and gritty atmosphere, the author masterfully portrays a world steeped in unsettling tension, where appearances can be deceiving, and trust is a fragile concept.
Sophia and Rebecca emerge as unreliable narrators, weaving their complex tales with chilling undertones that keep readers questioning the truth beneath their words. As their stories unfold, the sense of danger and uncertainty deepens, leaving a haunting impression that lingers long after the final page is turned.
Themes:
~The Facade of Trust
~Toxic Adult Friendships
~The Weight of Secrets
~Extreme Family Loyalty
~Identity and Manipulation
The Audiobook...
Narrated by the incredibly versatile Caitlin Shannon, this audiobook isn't just a reading—it’s a performance. Shannon expertly navigates the distinct, often brittle personalities of the widows, giving each a unique vocal thumbprint that makes the mounting tension feel deeply personal
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that feel claustrophobic and high-stakes, this is a must-listen. Shannon’s narration is masterfully nuanced. She captures the 'slow-burn' tension of S.E. Reed’s writing perfectly, using quiet, calculated pauses that make the eventual reveals feel earned. The character work is so versatile that you forget you’re listening to a single narrator.
Special thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for providing an advanced reading and listening copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Mar 23, 2026
March Newsletter
Highlights...
The Initial Meeting:
Sophia, a wealthy woman (art dealer) and outsider, meets Rebecca, a struggling nurse, mother of two, and housewife, at a paint-and-sip class in New York. Originally from the author's previous book, The First Wives.
The Friendship:
The two women form a quick bond; Sophia offers support to the overwhelmed Rebecca, who feels trapped in a sham marriage with a cheating husband.
The Manipulation: Sophia consciously manipulates the friendship, infiltrating Rebecca's life, with a hidden, yet to be fully revealed, motive.
The Diaries:
Sophia finds and reads Rebecca’s journals, starting with curiosity but turning into desperation as she realizes Rebecca has dark secrets.
The Shift in Dynamics:
Rebecca becomes increasingly insecure and unhinged, while Sophia takes control of the situation.
Twists and Tension: The story escalates into a web of lies, featuring characters willing to kill to protect their family, culminating in shocking twists.
My thoughts...
THE FIRST WIDOWS is a fast-paced "unputdownable" thriller with "morally grey" characters and a satisfying, albeit twisty, ending.
The plot follows a dark, twisting friendship between two women that quickly turns toxic. A domestic thriller centered on the theme that some people will do anything for family—even kill for it. This sets a theme of distorted loyalty where the "safety" of the family unit justifies horrific actions.
The story explores the danger of letting a stranger into your most intimate spaces. It questions how quickly we can "trust" someone who appears to be exactly what we need, only for that trust to be used as a weapon.
In a dark and gritty atmosphere, the author masterfully portrays a world steeped in unsettling tension, where appearances can be deceiving, and trust is a fragile concept.
Sophia and Rebecca emerge as unreliable narrators, weaving their complex tales with chilling undertones that keep readers questioning the truth beneath their words. As their stories unfold, the sense of danger and uncertainty deepens, leaving a haunting impression that lingers long after the final page is turned.
Themes:
~The Facade of Trust
~Toxic Adult Friendships
~The Weight of Secrets
~Extreme Family Loyalty
~Identity and Manipulation
The Audiobook...
Narrated by the incredibly versatile Caitlin Shannon, this audiobook isn't just a reading—it’s a performance. Shannon expertly navigates the distinct, often brittle personalities of the widows, giving each a unique vocal thumbprint that makes the mounting tension feel deeply personal
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that feel claustrophobic and high-stakes, this is a must-listen. Shannon’s narration is masterfully nuanced. She captures the 'slow-burn' tension of S.E. Reed’s writing perfectly, using quiet, calculated pauses that make the eventual reveals feel earned. The character work is so versatile that you forget you’re listening to a single narrator.
Special thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for providing an advanced reading and listening copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Mar 23, 2026
March Newsletter
March 20, 2026
ARC Review
The First Widows by S.E. Reed
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What begins as an innocent friendship quickly spirals into something far more unsettling.
Rebecca is overwhelmed, raising two young daughters while her husband’s demanding career keeps him away more often than not. When she meets Sophia at an art studio, the glamorous and wealthy woman seems to arrive at exactly the right moment. Their friendship begins with laughter, wine, and a welcome escape from Rebecca’s exhausting routine.
But as Sophia gradually weaves herself deeper into Rebecca’s life and family, subtle cracks begin to appear, and it becomes clear that not everything is as it seems.
This twisty domestic thriller thrives on uneasy dynamics, hidden motives, and the fragile line between friendship and manipulation. Both Rebecca and Sophia feel slightly off-balance from the start, which kept me constantly questioning who could truly be trusted.
The pacing slows slightly in the middle but builds toward a fast, gripping finale filled with well-timed twists and revelations. Themes of mental health, addiction, and emotional instability add depth to the suspense, making the story feel both unsettling and compelling.
Dark, tense, and emotionally charged, The First Widows is a gripping exploration of secrets, manipulation, and the dangerous side of friendship.
If you enjoy character-driven domestic thrillers with psychological tension and shocking twists, this one is worth picking up.
The First Widows comes out March 23, 2026. Huge thank you to Netgally and Storm Publishing for my advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
The First Widows by S.E. Reed
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What begins as an innocent friendship quickly spirals into something far more unsettling.
Rebecca is overwhelmed, raising two young daughters while her husband’s demanding career keeps him away more often than not. When she meets Sophia at an art studio, the glamorous and wealthy woman seems to arrive at exactly the right moment. Their friendship begins with laughter, wine, and a welcome escape from Rebecca’s exhausting routine.
But as Sophia gradually weaves herself deeper into Rebecca’s life and family, subtle cracks begin to appear, and it becomes clear that not everything is as it seems.
This twisty domestic thriller thrives on uneasy dynamics, hidden motives, and the fragile line between friendship and manipulation. Both Rebecca and Sophia feel slightly off-balance from the start, which kept me constantly questioning who could truly be trusted.
The pacing slows slightly in the middle but builds toward a fast, gripping finale filled with well-timed twists and revelations. Themes of mental health, addiction, and emotional instability add depth to the suspense, making the story feel both unsettling and compelling.
Dark, tense, and emotionally charged, The First Widows is a gripping exploration of secrets, manipulation, and the dangerous side of friendship.
If you enjoy character-driven domestic thrillers with psychological tension and shocking twists, this one is worth picking up.
The First Widows comes out March 23, 2026. Huge thank you to Netgally and Storm Publishing for my advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
April 5, 2026
The First Widows is such a dark and twisted thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. From page one until the final chapter, I was completely engrossed in Sophia and Rebecca’s friendship — a bond built on scheming, betrayal, and manipulation. I genuinely enjoyed the author’s writing style and will definitely check out more of their work.
This book connects to one of the author’s previous novels, but even without reading it, my experience wasn’t affected. I loved the glamorous life Sophia and Rebecca lived, along with their twisty, unpredictable personalities. The story navigates the complexities of motherhood, friendship, and the dark secrets someone will keep to get what they want.
The audiobook is spot‑on, with a narrator who truly did justice to the story through tone, accent, and pacing. I had a great time listening to the audio version.
What I Enjoyed:
• Powerful story with life‑changing lessons
• First‑person narrative
• Fast‑paced and easy to read
What Fell Short:
• Motherhood isn’t really for everyone
• The murder trope may be too much for some readers
• I didn’t realise there was a previous related novel (a heads‑up would’ve been nice)
Ratings Breakdown:
• Setting: 4⭐️
• Characters: 5⭐️
• Writing: 5⭐️
• Message: 4⭐️
• Overall: 5⭐️
Overall, this is an intriguing and gripping story that will have you gritting your teeth until the last page. I liked both characters (each with their own strengths and flaws) which made the story feel deeply layered. Highly recommended to thriller girlies like me who think they’ve read it all.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and author SE Reed for my copy.
~ JaNnA ~
This book connects to one of the author’s previous novels, but even without reading it, my experience wasn’t affected. I loved the glamorous life Sophia and Rebecca lived, along with their twisty, unpredictable personalities. The story navigates the complexities of motherhood, friendship, and the dark secrets someone will keep to get what they want.
The audiobook is spot‑on, with a narrator who truly did justice to the story through tone, accent, and pacing. I had a great time listening to the audio version.
What I Enjoyed:
• Powerful story with life‑changing lessons
• First‑person narrative
• Fast‑paced and easy to read
What Fell Short:
• Motherhood isn’t really for everyone
• The murder trope may be too much for some readers
• I didn’t realise there was a previous related novel (a heads‑up would’ve been nice)
Ratings Breakdown:
• Setting: 4⭐️
• Characters: 5⭐️
• Writing: 5⭐️
• Message: 4⭐️
• Overall: 5⭐️
Overall, this is an intriguing and gripping story that will have you gritting your teeth until the last page. I liked both characters (each with their own strengths and flaws) which made the story feel deeply layered. Highly recommended to thriller girlies like me who think they’ve read it all.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and author SE Reed for my copy.
~ JaNnA ~
March 30, 2026
3.75
Thank you to Dreamscape Media, Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the audiobook!
This story so many intense moments- had to brace myself a few times to see how Rebecca would react to news/situations. Pacing was a little slow in the middle, but had a fast start and a great ending with twists and turns.
Thank you to Dreamscape Media, Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the audiobook!
This story so many intense moments- had to brace myself a few times to see how Rebecca would react to news/situations. Pacing was a little slow in the middle, but had a fast start and a great ending with twists and turns.
May 4, 2026
I feel like I might be in the minority here, but The First Widows just didn’t quite land for me.
The premise really pulled me in—two women from completely different worlds forming an unlikely friendship, with hints of deeper motives beneath the surface. But in execution, I kept feeling like I was missing something. I never fully understood what was driving either character, especially Sophia. Her motivations for pursuing this connection with Rebecca felt unclear, and because of that, the emotional core of the story never really clicked.
The “friendship” itself also felt hard to believe. It didn’t come across as genuine or fully developed—more like two people orbiting each other with separate agendas. Because of that, I struggled to stay invested in their relationship or the stakes of the story.
There were moments where I thought the plot might really take off, but it never quite got there for me. Some elements felt predictable, while others leaned too far into unrealistic territory without being fully fleshed out. By the end, I found myself more ready for it to be over than curious about how it would resolve, and the twist didn’t have the impact I was hoping for.
That said, the audiobook narration was a standout. The performance added a layer of engagement that kept me listening, and I’m honestly not sure I would have finished it otherwise.
Thank you Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The premise really pulled me in—two women from completely different worlds forming an unlikely friendship, with hints of deeper motives beneath the surface. But in execution, I kept feeling like I was missing something. I never fully understood what was driving either character, especially Sophia. Her motivations for pursuing this connection with Rebecca felt unclear, and because of that, the emotional core of the story never really clicked.
The “friendship” itself also felt hard to believe. It didn’t come across as genuine or fully developed—more like two people orbiting each other with separate agendas. Because of that, I struggled to stay invested in their relationship or the stakes of the story.
There were moments where I thought the plot might really take off, but it never quite got there for me. Some elements felt predictable, while others leaned too far into unrealistic territory without being fully fleshed out. By the end, I found myself more ready for it to be over than curious about how it would resolve, and the twist didn’t have the impact I was hoping for.
That said, the audiobook narration was a standout. The performance added a layer of engagement that kept me listening, and I’m honestly not sure I would have finished it otherwise.
Thank you Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2026
The Blurb...
"Some people will do anything for family. Even kill for it…
When Sophia, a wealthy woman far from home, meets Rebecca, a struggling nurse and mother, at a paint-and-sip class in New York, their friendship unfolds just as you might expect.
The lonely outsider finds her place. The overwhelmed mother gets the help she desperately needs. The two women save each other.
But that’s only the beginning.
The first time Sophia reads Rebecca’s journal, it’s curiosity. The next time, it’s desperation. Because she’s realized she’s not the only one in this house with secrets…"
Ok the blurb doesn't give much away and that's perfect because what unfolds in this book is so much more. It opens with a shocking prologue that totally hooks you in, you know murder is about to happen yet you don't know who's the killer and who's the victim and it keeps you hooked right the way through.
I read the First Wives in September last year and although there are some comments about previous characters you can definitely read this as a stand alone. It was such a great read and I loved the different point of views from the characters and there was some great twists that I didn't see coming.
I really enjoyed this one.
"Some people will do anything for family. Even kill for it…
When Sophia, a wealthy woman far from home, meets Rebecca, a struggling nurse and mother, at a paint-and-sip class in New York, their friendship unfolds just as you might expect.
The lonely outsider finds her place. The overwhelmed mother gets the help she desperately needs. The two women save each other.
But that’s only the beginning.
The first time Sophia reads Rebecca’s journal, it’s curiosity. The next time, it’s desperation. Because she’s realized she’s not the only one in this house with secrets…"
Ok the blurb doesn't give much away and that's perfect because what unfolds in this book is so much more. It opens with a shocking prologue that totally hooks you in, you know murder is about to happen yet you don't know who's the killer and who's the victim and it keeps you hooked right the way through.
I read the First Wives in September last year and although there are some comments about previous characters you can definitely read this as a stand alone. It was such a great read and I loved the different point of views from the characters and there was some great twists that I didn't see coming.
I really enjoyed this one.
March 15, 2026
The First Widows is a wild and addictive follow-up to The First Wives. While it connects to the earlier story, it works just as well on its own, so you could easily start with either book. What begins as a story of unlikely best friends slowly unravels as secrets begin to surface in ways I was NOT expecting. Every twist made me question what was really going on, and I ended up glued to the pages far later than planned. Absolutely outrageous throughout, and I LOVED the ending!
February 21, 2026
It was intense from the beginning to the end .. I could not stop reading.. it’s a really good book
February 27, 2026
This book was a psychological mess and I loved it. I thought I knew where the storyline was going and I was 100% wrong. Some parts were hard to read, my only trigger involving young kids, but once the point was made the book shifted right back to focusing on the adults and their mayhem. This book was the definition of a psychological thriller.
March 17, 2026
I received a copy of this to read as an ARC through NetGalley.
I really enjoyed this! It was full of suspense and kept me wondering who was guilty of what and who was actually crazy.
I didn’t realize this was the second book to the First Wives, and while I think it could have been helpful to have more information on Hannah from that, the book was great as a standalone.
I will definitely be seeking out more of her books!
I really enjoyed this! It was full of suspense and kept me wondering who was guilty of what and who was actually crazy.
I didn’t realize this was the second book to the First Wives, and while I think it could have been helpful to have more information on Hannah from that, the book was great as a standalone.
I will definitely be seeking out more of her books!
March 26, 2026
My first read from this author and it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed reading this one, I loved the short chapters and different POV and timelines. Highly satisfied.
April 11, 2026
*2.25, rounded down*
RECAP: Some people will do anything for family - even kill. When wealthy outsider Sophia befriends Rebecca, an overwhelmed nurse & mom, their bond feels like salvation for them both, until Sophia reads Rebecca’s journal & realizes she’s not the only one in the house with secrets.
REVIEW: If you read some other GR reviews, you’ll see a mention of this author’s other book, The First Wives - I do think Widows is a follow up to that book, although nowhere is it promoted as such. But Sophia will constantly allude to a character and storyline from Wives, so it’s odd to not link this as a series… Also, the title is misleading - were the “first widows” in the room with us? And Sophia’s motive behind buddying up to Rebecca was off and made no sense to me - I kept waiting for the mask to fall away, but nope, she just wanted a “home base to come back to”? Weird.
RECAP: Some people will do anything for family - even kill. When wealthy outsider Sophia befriends Rebecca, an overwhelmed nurse & mom, their bond feels like salvation for them both, until Sophia reads Rebecca’s journal & realizes she’s not the only one in the house with secrets.
REVIEW: If you read some other GR reviews, you’ll see a mention of this author’s other book, The First Wives - I do think Widows is a follow up to that book, although nowhere is it promoted as such. But Sophia will constantly allude to a character and storyline from Wives, so it’s odd to not link this as a series… Also, the title is misleading - were the “first widows” in the room with us? And Sophia’s motive behind buddying up to Rebecca was off and made no sense to me - I kept waiting for the mask to fall away, but nope, she just wanted a “home base to come back to”? Weird.
April 1, 2026
Review of ARC received from NetGalley : I listed to the audiobook version of The First Widows by S.E. Reed. The plot is not believable but as someone in desperate need of entertaining distraction from reality this was perfect. I binged read/listened in a day and a half. All of the characters are garbage people (except the children) like reality TV stars that you love to hate and the narrator, Caitlin Shannon, did a great job with them. I didn’t realize there was another book before this one, and while it works as a stand alone I did feel like I was missing information at parts and want to go back and read the first to see if it helps with lingering questions.
April 7, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
I received this ARC so I had to go back and read The First Wives first as some characters are in both.
Rebecca is a nurse working at a free clinic in NYC and married to a world famous heart surgeon. She meets and befriends Sophia and both women are lonely and looking for a bestie. Sophia quickly becomes close with Rebecca and her two girls. I did find it funny that the husbands in both books are wealthy but wont pay for adequate help to sit for the daughters or for housekeeping. I enjoyed the book and recommend reading it. The story went in areas I was not expecting.
I enjoyed Caitlin Shannon's narration.
4 stars
I received this ARC so I had to go back and read The First Wives first as some characters are in both.
Rebecca is a nurse working at a free clinic in NYC and married to a world famous heart surgeon. She meets and befriends Sophia and both women are lonely and looking for a bestie. Sophia quickly becomes close with Rebecca and her two girls. I did find it funny that the husbands in both books are wealthy but wont pay for adequate help to sit for the daughters or for housekeeping. I enjoyed the book and recommend reading it. The story went in areas I was not expecting.
I enjoyed Caitlin Shannon's narration.
February 1, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for the early access, for my first ever ARC!
I enjoyed the book so much, I finished it in two sittings. This book gives “we are all a little mad here” vibes. S.E. Reed’s storytelling was phenomenal. Each characters POV was well written, and I felt like I was the brain of Sophia and Rebecca—you just jump right in to their stream of consciousness. I liked the roller coaster of a ride that the plot was considering I finished it in a day! You’re questioning motives, but then, wait, are you rooting for the wrong person? Who can you trust? The book has you wanting more so you can figure it all out.
My only two qualms were 1. they said this could be read as a standalone. But throughout the book I felt left out, as I haven’t read The First Wives. There were more than a handful of references about that book/ Sophia’s past which left me with the feeling of, “I should’ve read that first.” 2. I had trouble trying to figure out what Sophia’s purpose was throughout the book… a person to call home? Or maybe that would’ve been easily answered had I ready The First Wives first. But that’s just me!
All in all, I enjoyed the multiple POV’s, especially involving an unreliable narrator! You don’t know who to believe and this book keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time. Big fan of the unhinged-ness both characters are willing to go to and would recommend this book!
I enjoyed the book so much, I finished it in two sittings. This book gives “we are all a little mad here” vibes. S.E. Reed’s storytelling was phenomenal. Each characters POV was well written, and I felt like I was the brain of Sophia and Rebecca—you just jump right in to their stream of consciousness. I liked the roller coaster of a ride that the plot was considering I finished it in a day! You’re questioning motives, but then, wait, are you rooting for the wrong person? Who can you trust? The book has you wanting more so you can figure it all out.
My only two qualms were 1. they said this could be read as a standalone. But throughout the book I felt left out, as I haven’t read The First Wives. There were more than a handful of references about that book/ Sophia’s past which left me with the feeling of, “I should’ve read that first.” 2. I had trouble trying to figure out what Sophia’s purpose was throughout the book… a person to call home? Or maybe that would’ve been easily answered had I ready The First Wives first. But that’s just me!
All in all, I enjoyed the multiple POV’s, especially involving an unreliable narrator! You don’t know who to believe and this book keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole time. Big fan of the unhinged-ness both characters are willing to go to and would recommend this book!
May 12, 2026
Last year I read The First Wives by S. E. Reed and it knocked the wind right out of me. This year, I have the privilege of reviewing her next book The First Widows by Novel Tours. I’ve already gushed about both of these books in every corner of bookstagram, but I’ve been working out how to properly review it without giving anything away. This book is so good, and the decisions the main characters make provide a surprise at every turn. I didn’t even realize something very important until I was near the end of the book and had one of those cartoon lightbulbs go on over my head, lol.
Without further ado, this is definitely a 5 star book, S. E. Reed is permanently added to my auto-buy author list!
𝙈𝛄 2 ¢𝓮𝞰𝒕𝐬: Yes, YES, and even yesser. Don’t skip this book!
There’s a a character in this book that had me intermittently thinking WHAT IS WRONG WITH HER? Seriously, the psychology behind these characters is fascinating, and I loved every page of the emotional chaos.
This book has a quick pace that kept me turning pages with so much tension in relationships built on so many secrets, lies, misdirections. Even the side characters are fabulous - I really loved Ekaterina’s no-nonsense, frank observations.
In a story with so many revelations, it’s hard to review without spoilers, but if you like messed up relationships, complicated loyalties, truly psychological basis for suspense, and women you’ll never forget, this is the book for you!
Without further ado, this is definitely a 5 star book, S. E. Reed is permanently added to my auto-buy author list!
𝙈𝛄 2 ¢𝓮𝞰𝒕𝐬: Yes, YES, and even yesser. Don’t skip this book!
There’s a a character in this book that had me intermittently thinking WHAT IS WRONG WITH HER? Seriously, the psychology behind these characters is fascinating, and I loved every page of the emotional chaos.
This book has a quick pace that kept me turning pages with so much tension in relationships built on so many secrets, lies, misdirections. Even the side characters are fabulous - I really loved Ekaterina’s no-nonsense, frank observations.
In a story with so many revelations, it’s hard to review without spoilers, but if you like messed up relationships, complicated loyalties, truly psychological basis for suspense, and women you’ll never forget, this is the book for you!
May 13, 2026
This was such an addictive read! The First Widows pulled me in from the start and kept me guessing with its twists and dark secrets.
Rebecca is absolutely insane—but in the best, most thrilling way for a domestic suspense novel. I found myself both fascinated and horrified by her actions. Meanwhile, Sophia quickly became my favorite character; I loved her resilience and complexity. As for Katarina… let’s just say she left a lasting impression!
If you love fast-paced thrillers filled with deception, betrayal, and shocking revelations, this one is definitely worth picking
Rebecca is absolutely insane—but in the best, most thrilling way for a domestic suspense novel. I found myself both fascinated and horrified by her actions. Meanwhile, Sophia quickly became my favorite character; I loved her resilience and complexity. As for Katarina… let’s just say she left a lasting impression!
If you love fast-paced thrillers filled with deception, betrayal, and shocking revelations, this one is definitely worth picking
March 25, 2026
THE FIRST WIDOWS by S.E. Reed is a twisty psychological domestic thriller focused on themes of toxic friendship, manipulation, and the secrets hidden within marriages. Huge thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me with an ARC! This honest review is based on an early access copy.
Mood: unhinged • tense • addictive • “trust no one” energy
I just finished The First Widows and… yeah, my brain is still buffering.
This is one of those books where you think you understand what’s going on, and then suddenly you’re questioning everything, including yourself. It follows Sophia (wealthy, controlled, slightly… off) and Rebecca (overwhelmed mum, messy life, even messier marriage), whose friendship starts off feeling like fate and quickly spirals into something way darker.
If you’re a fan of the "unhinged" energy found in books by Freida McFadden or Jeneva Rose, The First Widows needs to be at the top of your TBR. I devoured this in just two sittings. It’s a fast-paced, "unputdownable" ride that gives off major "we’re all a little mad here" vibes.
The Plot:
The story centers on a dark, twisting friendship between two women that quickly spirals into a toxic game of cat-and-mouse. We meet Rebecca, an overwhelmed nurse and mother of two who feels trapped in a sham marriage, and Sophia, a glamorous, wealthy art dealer who seems to appear at exactly the right moment.
They meet at a paint-and-sip class in New York and form an instant bond. But as Sophia weaves herself into Rebecca’s intimate spaces, the "safety" of their friendship begins to fracture. When Sophia discovers Rebecca’s diaries, she realizes her new friend is harboring secrets far darker than she imagined.
What Worked for Me:
The Unreliable Narrators: I loved the dual-POV structure here. S.E. Reed’s storytelling is phenomenal; you are dropped straight into the stream of consciousness of both women. You’ll find yourself questioning everyone’s motives and constantly wondering, "Wait, am I rooting for the wrong person?"
The Tension: The author masterfully portrays a world where trust is a fragile weapon. The transition from an innocent friendship to a web of manipulation and distorted loyalty is chilling. It explores the terrifying reality of what happens when people are willing to kill to protect their version of "family."
The Atmosphere: Gritty and unsettling. The themes of mental health, addiction, and emotional instability add a layer of depth that makes the suspense feel earned rather than just shocking.
A Few Notes
While I loved the ride, I did have two small qualms:
Read the Prequel First: This is marketed as a standalone, but I felt slightly left out having not read The First Wives. There are numerous references to Sophia’s past and her relationship with Hannah that would likely have given her character more weight and clarity.
The Mid-Point Pacing: The story slows down slightly in the middle, though it more than makes up for it with a high-octane finale filled with well-timed revelations.
Final Verdict:
Dark, tense, and emotionally charged, The First Widows is a gripping exploration of the dangerous side of friendship. It’s a "morally grey" masterpiece that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page. Overall, this was dark, gripping, and lowkey chaotic (in a good way). If you love unreliable narrators, toxic friendships, and thrillers that keep you guessing the entire time, add this to your list immediately.
Mood: unhinged • tense • addictive • “trust no one” energy
I just finished The First Widows and… yeah, my brain is still buffering.
This is one of those books where you think you understand what’s going on, and then suddenly you’re questioning everything, including yourself. It follows Sophia (wealthy, controlled, slightly… off) and Rebecca (overwhelmed mum, messy life, even messier marriage), whose friendship starts off feeling like fate and quickly spirals into something way darker.
If you’re a fan of the "unhinged" energy found in books by Freida McFadden or Jeneva Rose, The First Widows needs to be at the top of your TBR. I devoured this in just two sittings. It’s a fast-paced, "unputdownable" ride that gives off major "we’re all a little mad here" vibes.
The Plot:
The story centers on a dark, twisting friendship between two women that quickly spirals into a toxic game of cat-and-mouse. We meet Rebecca, an overwhelmed nurse and mother of two who feels trapped in a sham marriage, and Sophia, a glamorous, wealthy art dealer who seems to appear at exactly the right moment.
They meet at a paint-and-sip class in New York and form an instant bond. But as Sophia weaves herself into Rebecca’s intimate spaces, the "safety" of their friendship begins to fracture. When Sophia discovers Rebecca’s diaries, she realizes her new friend is harboring secrets far darker than she imagined.
What Worked for Me:
The Unreliable Narrators: I loved the dual-POV structure here. S.E. Reed’s storytelling is phenomenal; you are dropped straight into the stream of consciousness of both women. You’ll find yourself questioning everyone’s motives and constantly wondering, "Wait, am I rooting for the wrong person?"
The Tension: The author masterfully portrays a world where trust is a fragile weapon. The transition from an innocent friendship to a web of manipulation and distorted loyalty is chilling. It explores the terrifying reality of what happens when people are willing to kill to protect their version of "family."
The Atmosphere: Gritty and unsettling. The themes of mental health, addiction, and emotional instability add a layer of depth that makes the suspense feel earned rather than just shocking.
A Few Notes
While I loved the ride, I did have two small qualms:
Read the Prequel First: This is marketed as a standalone, but I felt slightly left out having not read The First Wives. There are numerous references to Sophia’s past and her relationship with Hannah that would likely have given her character more weight and clarity.
The Mid-Point Pacing: The story slows down slightly in the middle, though it more than makes up for it with a high-octane finale filled with well-timed revelations.
Final Verdict:
Dark, tense, and emotionally charged, The First Widows is a gripping exploration of the dangerous side of friendship. It’s a "morally grey" masterpiece that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page. Overall, this was dark, gripping, and lowkey chaotic (in a good way). If you love unreliable narrators, toxic friendships, and thrillers that keep you guessing the entire time, add this to your list immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I didn’t read The First Wives before picking up The First Widows, but after finishing this one, I will 100% be going back to read it. Technically you don’t necessarily need to read the first book to understand this story, but as someone who likes to pause and really unpack character backstories, I do think reading The First Wives first would add more depth, especially when it comes to understanding Sophia.
From the description alone, I was hooked. Sophia is a wealthy woman living in NYC who meets Rebecca, a struggling mother, at a paint-and-sip class. Two lonely women from completely different worlds find comfort in each other despite their class differences. They become one another’s solace, but that’s only the beginning. When Sophia begins reading Rebecca’s journal, what starts as curiosity quickly shifts into desperation. Because Rebecca isn’t the only one hiding secrets in that house.
The book really dives into both women’s lives and their complicated, messy friendship. We meet Rebecca, a mother of two, married to a doctor who is constantly away and having an affair. He dismisses her dream of performing on Broadway, and their marriage is honestly on thin ice. Rebecca herself is deeply flawed and at times neglects her kids and makes decisions that are honestly shocking. There were moments where I thought, I would have called CAS on her (CPS here in Canada) because some of her actions were very questionable.
Sophia, on the other hand, meets Rebecca at the paint-and-sip and almost immediately inserts herself into her life. To me, it felt like the popular girl befriending the nerd, not out of cruelty, but out of a strange sense of protection or superiority, at first, but later on it felt like she pushed for the friendship for other reasons. That dynamic made their relationship fascinating. Sophia is incredibly loyal and often steps in to care for Rebecca’s children, which I found both interesting and slightly unsettling. I think reading The First Wives would give more context to her reasonings on why she does what she does.
Overall, I’m giving this 4.5/5 stars. I loved the pacing, the character development, and the way their relationship slowly unraveled. The author does an incredible job of pulling you in and making you question everything. Both women are unhinged in their own ways, and there were so many moments where I genuinely didn’t know who to believe or where the story was heading. The tension builds beautifully, and the ending was really great.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy! Publication date: March 23, 2026.
From the description alone, I was hooked. Sophia is a wealthy woman living in NYC who meets Rebecca, a struggling mother, at a paint-and-sip class. Two lonely women from completely different worlds find comfort in each other despite their class differences. They become one another’s solace, but that’s only the beginning. When Sophia begins reading Rebecca’s journal, what starts as curiosity quickly shifts into desperation. Because Rebecca isn’t the only one hiding secrets in that house.
The book really dives into both women’s lives and their complicated, messy friendship. We meet Rebecca, a mother of two, married to a doctor who is constantly away and having an affair. He dismisses her dream of performing on Broadway, and their marriage is honestly on thin ice. Rebecca herself is deeply flawed and at times neglects her kids and makes decisions that are honestly shocking. There were moments where I thought, I would have called CAS on her (CPS here in Canada) because some of her actions were very questionable.
Sophia, on the other hand, meets Rebecca at the paint-and-sip and almost immediately inserts herself into her life. To me, it felt like the popular girl befriending the nerd, not out of cruelty, but out of a strange sense of protection or superiority, at first, but later on it felt like she pushed for the friendship for other reasons. That dynamic made their relationship fascinating. Sophia is incredibly loyal and often steps in to care for Rebecca’s children, which I found both interesting and slightly unsettling. I think reading The First Wives would give more context to her reasonings on why she does what she does.
Overall, I’m giving this 4.5/5 stars. I loved the pacing, the character development, and the way their relationship slowly unraveled. The author does an incredible job of pulling you in and making you question everything. Both women are unhinged in their own ways, and there were so many moments where I genuinely didn’t know who to believe or where the story was heading. The tension builds beautifully, and the ending was really great.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy! Publication date: March 23, 2026.
April 3, 2026
3.5-3.75 stars. Part 1 seemed to drag a little it wasn't as suspenseful and I understand why after listening to part 2, why part one was more the story leading up to part two I kept trying to figure out why the prologue had been in front, as it gave a forshadowing to what was going to happen later. I had my thoughts of why that fight happened but I didn't fully see the ending. I knew someone was hiding something and honestly thought they were both hiding things. It wasn't until later in the story I understood the title. I don't know how Sophia started following Rebecca and I always wondered why, why was she trying to find a friend and wanted to fix that family. In the prologue not knowing what was fully going on I was like dang that mother's strength and in part 2 when you find out the full story to what happens in the prologue I was like dang so it was a person who wanted to be the mother of those kids strength to protect them. Throughout part 1 I was telling Rebecca not to get close to Sophia because I didn't fully trust her, especially thinking it was so creepy she had been stalking Rebecca. Then everytime Rebecca said her husband was off on some trip I wondered if she had killed him and it was just a cover story as to why he wasn't ever home. Then one chapter there he is alive and "well". As the story went on, I started to really question Rebecca as a mother. I kept thinking wow this woman is a mother?!? what is she thinking leaving an 8 and 5 year old home alone. I have an 8 year old and a 6.5 year old and I wouldn't dream to leave them alone for hours to go party. Rebecca kept making the wonders if I was a good enough mom subside b/c I was like I wouldn't do that, and yes I get upset sometimes at them and annoyed I would never do xyz....
Part 2: wow that was just the suspenseful chapter. What are going to happen and then last half of part two was even more suspenseful, that I didn't want to put it down. After the uncovering of the secret folders in part 1 I was like no wonder Rebecca is the way she is but then I found out what they were really about in part 2 and that was just crazy. Mitch really was a a$$hole completely and I felt he never cared for his kids. And with all the deaths in the end of part 2 I kept going OMG I didn't think she would do that and feel the way she did! Absolutely crazy!
I gave my score of 3.5-3.75 because the first half wasn't as suspenseful. I was wondering why it was called The Widows and just didn't know where the story was going. The second half for me, was way better and the most suspenseful part of the story!
Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to listen to this book!
Part 2: wow that was just the suspenseful chapter. What are going to happen and then last half of part two was even more suspenseful, that I didn't want to put it down. After the uncovering of the secret folders in part 1 I was like no wonder Rebecca is the way she is but then I found out what they were really about in part 2 and that was just crazy. Mitch really was a a$$hole completely and I felt he never cared for his kids. And with all the deaths in the end of part 2 I kept going OMG I didn't think she would do that and feel the way she did! Absolutely crazy!
I gave my score of 3.5-3.75 because the first half wasn't as suspenseful. I was wondering why it was called The Widows and just didn't know where the story was going. The second half for me, was way better and the most suspenseful part of the story!
Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to listen to this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Some friendships save you. Others study you.
The First Widows is domestic suspense at its most intoxicating — intimate, unsettling, and quietly explosive.
S.E. Reed takes what seems like a familiar setup — two lonely women meeting at a paint-and-sip class — and slowly, expertly peels it open. Sophia, wealthy and displaced. Rebecca, overwhelmed and drowning in motherhood and betrayal. On the surface, they are exactly what the other needs. And that’s what makes it so dangerous.
What makes this novel stand out isn’t just the twists (though they absolutely land). It’s the emotional manipulation at the center. Reed understands adult female friendship — the hunger for it, the vulnerability inside it, the subtle power plays we don’t always admit are happening. Watching Sophia and Rebecca circle each other is like watching a match hover over gasoline.
The journal element is brilliantly deployed. The first time it’s curiosity. The next time, it’s something far darker. That slow escalation from fascination to obsession is handled with such control that you can feel the tension tightening with every chapter.
And then there’s the shifting allegiance. Reed makes you question your instincts constantly. Just when you think you know who the victim is… you don’t. Just when you think you’ve identified the villain… think again. That emotional whiplash is deliberate and incredibly effective.
The pacing is sharp, but what impressed me most is how layered the characters feel. No one is purely innocent. No one is purely monstrous. That moral grayness makes the unraveling hit harder because it feels disturbingly plausible.
The final act delivers exactly what a thriller should: shock, satisfaction, and that delicious moment of realization when you see how carefully everything was constructed from the beginning.
S.E. Reed has crafted a story that isn’t just about secrets — it’s about need. About what happens when longing for family, belonging, or validation becomes something corrosive. And about how quickly trust can turn into a weapon.
Dark. Addictive. Cleverly executed.
This is domestic suspense done with confidence — and it proves once again that Reed knows exactly how to get inside her readers’ heads and refuse to leave.
The First Widows is domestic suspense at its most intoxicating — intimate, unsettling, and quietly explosive.
S.E. Reed takes what seems like a familiar setup — two lonely women meeting at a paint-and-sip class — and slowly, expertly peels it open. Sophia, wealthy and displaced. Rebecca, overwhelmed and drowning in motherhood and betrayal. On the surface, they are exactly what the other needs. And that’s what makes it so dangerous.
What makes this novel stand out isn’t just the twists (though they absolutely land). It’s the emotional manipulation at the center. Reed understands adult female friendship — the hunger for it, the vulnerability inside it, the subtle power plays we don’t always admit are happening. Watching Sophia and Rebecca circle each other is like watching a match hover over gasoline.
The journal element is brilliantly deployed. The first time it’s curiosity. The next time, it’s something far darker. That slow escalation from fascination to obsession is handled with such control that you can feel the tension tightening with every chapter.
And then there’s the shifting allegiance. Reed makes you question your instincts constantly. Just when you think you know who the victim is… you don’t. Just when you think you’ve identified the villain… think again. That emotional whiplash is deliberate and incredibly effective.
The pacing is sharp, but what impressed me most is how layered the characters feel. No one is purely innocent. No one is purely monstrous. That moral grayness makes the unraveling hit harder because it feels disturbingly plausible.
The final act delivers exactly what a thriller should: shock, satisfaction, and that delicious moment of realization when you see how carefully everything was constructed from the beginning.
S.E. Reed has crafted a story that isn’t just about secrets — it’s about need. About what happens when longing for family, belonging, or validation becomes something corrosive. And about how quickly trust can turn into a weapon.
Dark. Addictive. Cleverly executed.
This is domestic suspense done with confidence — and it proves once again that Reed knows exactly how to get inside her readers’ heads and refuse to leave.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Apparently, this is a sequel to another book, which I wasn’t aware of, based on the description. I don’t think it matters if you read that one or not, except that you would probably have a better idea what you were getting into with this one. Rebecca is a nurse and mother of two young girls whom she couldn’t care less about. She’s somewhere in her late thirties, I guess, as her age is never stated. She’s obsessed with getting on Broadway, but doesn’t audition anymore, mainly because her husband doesn’t want her to. I would think she’s too old to be a breakout star, but what do I know? She meets Sophia, also of indiscriminate age, who is obscenely wealthy and wants to be friends with Rebecca for no reason other than she looks like good best friend material. ??
They become friends, and Sophia goes out of her way to make Rebecca’s life easier for her. Rebecca, in turn, becomes an even worse mother. Seriously, Child Protective Services would have been called several times throughout the story if this were real life. But Sophia just covers for her and lets her get away with continued negligence. Rebecca’s married, but her husband is rarely around and doesn’t seem to notice or care that his children are neglected. He’s a pediatric heart surgeon who travels the world to teach and give talks and is therefore absent from his family most of the time.
And that’s pretty much the story. Rebecca grows increasingly unstable, Sophia turns into a surrogate mom, and life continues until someone goes completely psychotic. This is where some more background on Sophia would help in this story – was she unable to have kids? Did she have some at one point and lose them? Why’s she so desperate to infiltrate Rebecca’s life instead of reporting her and getting the heck away? Well, who knows because we’re never told.
I read this practically in one sitting because it just flies by, and the author’s great at immersing you right into the story, but I had hoped there’d be more explanation. At least there’s a good resolution that I think ties into the first book.
My thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the free advanced reading copy of this book.
They become friends, and Sophia goes out of her way to make Rebecca’s life easier for her. Rebecca, in turn, becomes an even worse mother. Seriously, Child Protective Services would have been called several times throughout the story if this were real life. But Sophia just covers for her and lets her get away with continued negligence. Rebecca’s married, but her husband is rarely around and doesn’t seem to notice or care that his children are neglected. He’s a pediatric heart surgeon who travels the world to teach and give talks and is therefore absent from his family most of the time.
And that’s pretty much the story. Rebecca grows increasingly unstable, Sophia turns into a surrogate mom, and life continues until someone goes completely psychotic. This is where some more background on Sophia would help in this story – was she unable to have kids? Did she have some at one point and lose them? Why’s she so desperate to infiltrate Rebecca’s life instead of reporting her and getting the heck away? Well, who knows because we’re never told.
I read this practically in one sitting because it just flies by, and the author’s great at immersing you right into the story, but I had hoped there’d be more explanation. At least there’s a good resolution that I think ties into the first book.
My thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the free advanced reading copy of this book.
April 6, 2026
The First Widows by S. E. Reed is the kind of domestic thriller that pulls you in quietly—and then completely unravels everything you thought you understood. Rebecca is overwhelmed, exhausted, and desperate for someone to truly see her. Sophia is polished, wealthy, and far too interested in stepping into Rebecca’s life. What begins as an easy friendship—wine nights, shared secrets, and much-needed support—quickly turns into something far darker. As Sophia embeds herself deeper into Rebecca’s home, her marriage, and even her children’s lives, the line between savior and threat becomes dangerously blurred.
My thoughts:
S.E. Reed absolutely excels at writing relationships that feel warm on the surface but deeply unsettling underneath. The dynamic between Rebecca and Sophia is the standout—messy, intense, and constantly shifting. I loved how the story keeps you questioning everything: who’s manipulating who, who’s telling the truth, and who is actually in control. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the narrative twisted again in a way that kept me fully locked in.
The pacing is sharp and bingeable, with short chapters and multiple POVs that add to the tension and unease. There’s a creeping, claustrophobic atmosphere throughout, especially as the friendship becomes more toxic and obsessive. The middle slows slightly, but it feels intentional—like the calm before everything completely spirals. And when it does? The final act delivers in a big way.
The characters are deeply flawed (and at times unlikeable), but that’s what makes it work. This is very much a “trust no one” kind of thriller, and I loved how morally gray everyone felt. It adds to that addictive, can’t-look-away energy.
Final verdict:
Dark, twisty, and completely addictive—The First Widows is a gripping exploration of toxic friendship, control, and the secrets people will do anything to protect. If you love psychological thrillers that keep you guessing until the very last page, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
✨ Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My thoughts:
S.E. Reed absolutely excels at writing relationships that feel warm on the surface but deeply unsettling underneath. The dynamic between Rebecca and Sophia is the standout—messy, intense, and constantly shifting. I loved how the story keeps you questioning everything: who’s manipulating who, who’s telling the truth, and who is actually in control. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the narrative twisted again in a way that kept me fully locked in.
The pacing is sharp and bingeable, with short chapters and multiple POVs that add to the tension and unease. There’s a creeping, claustrophobic atmosphere throughout, especially as the friendship becomes more toxic and obsessive. The middle slows slightly, but it feels intentional—like the calm before everything completely spirals. And when it does? The final act delivers in a big way.
The characters are deeply flawed (and at times unlikeable), but that’s what makes it work. This is very much a “trust no one” kind of thriller, and I loved how morally gray everyone felt. It adds to that addictive, can’t-look-away energy.
Final verdict:
Dark, twisty, and completely addictive—The First Widows is a gripping exploration of toxic friendship, control, and the secrets people will do anything to protect. If you love psychological thrillers that keep you guessing until the very last page, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
✨ Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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