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The Breakup Game #1
The Breakup Game: A Slow-Burn Coming-of-Age Psychological Thriller
Every good girl has secrets. He’s about to expose them all.
Kaitlyn Boyd knows how to be perfect.
Perfect daughter. Perfect friend. Perfect future therapist. A high school junior with a five-year plan and zero room for mistakes.
All it takes is a few harmless lies.
But when her boyfriend Seth walks into her parents’ bedroom and exposes one of her most vulnerable secrets, Kaitlyn’s carefully crafted perfection begins to crack. And Seth won’t stop.
He’s dragging every lie Kaitlyn has ever told into the light—twisting them, sharpening them, and turning her own friends and family against her. What started as a breakup has become something far darker.
A game.
Desperate to survive, Kaitlyn fights back with bigger, riskier lies. Because if she doesn’t twist the truth, her biggest secret won’t just come out.
It will shatter everything.
The Breakup Game is a twisty, addictive, slow-burn coming-of-age psychological thriller about truth, obsession, and how far someone will go to stay in control of their own story. It is the first novel in a seven book series. This gripping series pits a boy’s psychological warfare against a girl who's willing to do anything to break free.
Kaitlyn Boyd knows how to be perfect.
Perfect daughter. Perfect friend. Perfect future therapist. A high school junior with a five-year plan and zero room for mistakes.
All it takes is a few harmless lies.
But when her boyfriend Seth walks into her parents’ bedroom and exposes one of her most vulnerable secrets, Kaitlyn’s carefully crafted perfection begins to crack. And Seth won’t stop.
He’s dragging every lie Kaitlyn has ever told into the light—twisting them, sharpening them, and turning her own friends and family against her. What started as a breakup has become something far darker.
A game.
Desperate to survive, Kaitlyn fights back with bigger, riskier lies. Because if she doesn’t twist the truth, her biggest secret won’t just come out.
It will shatter everything.
The Breakup Game is a twisty, addictive, slow-burn coming-of-age psychological thriller about truth, obsession, and how far someone will go to stay in control of their own story. It is the first novel in a seven book series. This gripping series pits a boy’s psychological warfare against a girl who's willing to do anything to break free.
- GenresThriller
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2026
About the author
Grady Wieczorek
30 books10 followersGrady Wieczorek (pronounced "Why-zor-ick" according to his grandma, but not according to the Polish) is an author of psychological thriller and contemporary novels, including The Breakup Game series. He lives in southern California with his wife.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 26, 2026
The Breakup Game is one of those stories that starts with a crack and ends with a full‑blown shatter. Kaitlyn Boyd has spent years perfecting her life — the good daughter, the supportive friend, the future therapist who always says the right thing. I liked how the book captures that polished exterior, the way she uses tiny, “harmless” lies to keep everything neat and manageable. It’s relatable in that uncomfortable way: the small fibs we tell to smooth edges, to avoid conflict, to stay in control.
And then Seth breaks everything open.
The moment he walks into her parents’ bedroom and exposes one of her most vulnerable secrets, the tone shifts sharply. What should have been a breakup becomes something darker, more deliberate. Seth starts dragging every lie Kaitlyn has ever told into the light — twisting them, sharpening them, weaponising them. The psychological tension is deliciously uncomfortable. You can feel Kaitlyn’s world shrinking as her friends and family begin to doubt her, as the lies she once used to protect herself turn into traps she can’t escape.
What works so well is how the book handles the spiral. Kaitlyn’s desperation feels painfully real. She fights back with bigger, riskier lies, trying to stay one step ahead of Seth’s cruelty. It’s messy, human, and exactly the kind of emotional chaos that makes this story impossible to look away from. The line between victim and participant blurs, and the book leans into that complexity without ever losing sympathy for her.
The tension builds beautifully. Every chapter feels like another turn of the screw, another consequence Kaitlyn didn’t see coming. The people she trusted begin to slip away, and the isolation is palpable. Yet she keeps pushing, keeps twisting the truth, because the alternative — her biggest secret coming out — would destroy everything she’s built.
What lingered for me is the theme: how fragile perfection is, how quickly control can crumble, and how dangerous it becomes when someone decides to expose every crack. It’s a story about lies, yes, but also about identity — who you are when the version you’ve curated is stripped away.
A taut, unsettling psychological thriller that spirals from breakup to mind game with chilling precision. Sharp, emotional, and compulsively readable — the kind of book that keeps your pulse up and your tea cooling beside you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
And then Seth breaks everything open.
The moment he walks into her parents’ bedroom and exposes one of her most vulnerable secrets, the tone shifts sharply. What should have been a breakup becomes something darker, more deliberate. Seth starts dragging every lie Kaitlyn has ever told into the light — twisting them, sharpening them, weaponising them. The psychological tension is deliciously uncomfortable. You can feel Kaitlyn’s world shrinking as her friends and family begin to doubt her, as the lies she once used to protect herself turn into traps she can’t escape.
What works so well is how the book handles the spiral. Kaitlyn’s desperation feels painfully real. She fights back with bigger, riskier lies, trying to stay one step ahead of Seth’s cruelty. It’s messy, human, and exactly the kind of emotional chaos that makes this story impossible to look away from. The line between victim and participant blurs, and the book leans into that complexity without ever losing sympathy for her.
The tension builds beautifully. Every chapter feels like another turn of the screw, another consequence Kaitlyn didn’t see coming. The people she trusted begin to slip away, and the isolation is palpable. Yet she keeps pushing, keeps twisting the truth, because the alternative — her biggest secret coming out — would destroy everything she’s built.
What lingered for me is the theme: how fragile perfection is, how quickly control can crumble, and how dangerous it becomes when someone decides to expose every crack. It’s a story about lies, yes, but also about identity — who you are when the version you’ve curated is stripped away.
A taut, unsettling psychological thriller that spirals from breakup to mind game with chilling precision. Sharp, emotional, and compulsively readable — the kind of book that keeps your pulse up and your tea cooling beside you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Breakup Game by Grady Wieczorek
Publication date September 1, 2026
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by Grady Wieczorek, and I honestly had no idea what I was getting into. The concept was so different from anything I’ve read before, and I really liked how the author took what sounds like a typical breakup and turned it into something much darker.
While this is considered Young Adult, the psychological warfare Seth puts Kaitlyn through is absolutely mind-blowing. Watching him expose her secrets and manipulate the people around her had me questioning just how far he was going to take things. What starts as a breakup quickly turns into a twisted game of control, lies, and revenge.
Kaitlyn is far from perfect, and I liked seeing her struggle between keeping up the image she created and doing whatever she could to survive what Seth was putting her through. The back-and-forth between them kept me hooked, and there were definitely moments where I wanted to yell at both of them! Then came the twist about Kaitlyn’s sister, Zoey, and it absolutely floored me. I couldn’t stop reading after that.
I’m giving this 4 stars because the story was unique, unsettling, and definitely kept me turning the pages. And knowing this is the first book in a seven-book series makes me very curious to see where this psychological battle goes next. Seth is seriously disturbing, and I have a feeling this game is only getting started.
Publication date September 1, 2026
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by Grady Wieczorek, and I honestly had no idea what I was getting into. The concept was so different from anything I’ve read before, and I really liked how the author took what sounds like a typical breakup and turned it into something much darker.
While this is considered Young Adult, the psychological warfare Seth puts Kaitlyn through is absolutely mind-blowing. Watching him expose her secrets and manipulate the people around her had me questioning just how far he was going to take things. What starts as a breakup quickly turns into a twisted game of control, lies, and revenge.
Kaitlyn is far from perfect, and I liked seeing her struggle between keeping up the image she created and doing whatever she could to survive what Seth was putting her through. The back-and-forth between them kept me hooked, and there were definitely moments where I wanted to yell at both of them! Then came the twist about Kaitlyn’s sister, Zoey, and it absolutely floored me. I couldn’t stop reading after that.
I’m giving this 4 stars because the story was unique, unsettling, and definitely kept me turning the pages. And knowing this is the first book in a seven-book series makes me very curious to see where this psychological battle goes next. Seth is seriously disturbing, and I have a feeling this game is only getting started.
September 25, 2026
The Breakup Game didn’t just entertain me .It pulled me in. It felt like one of those stories you stumble into thinking it’ll be light and silly, and then suddenly you’re sitting there feeling things you didn’t plan on feeling.
It starts off with that familiar teenage chaos meaning the impulsive decisions, dramatic friendships, and those “end of the world” emotions only teens can deliver. I found myself smiling at the messiness, the humor, and the way every moment felt bigger than life. But as the story unfolded, something shifted. There was a quiet thread running underneath everything, a little religious‑psychological tension that made the characters’ choices feel heavier and more meaningful. It wasn’t preachy or overwhelming. It was just enough to make you pause and think.
Somewhere along the way, I realized I wasn’t just watching a game play out. I was watching these characters try to figure out who they were, what they believed, and how much of themselves they were willing to risk for love, loyalty, or the idea of being chosen. It surprised me, but in a good way. I didn’t expect to care about them the way I did.
By the end, I felt like I’d gone on a small emotional ride that I didn’t see coming. The Breakup Game is entertaining, yes, but it’s also unexpectedly thoughtful. A teenage whirlwind with a deeper pulse beneath it. Not at all what I expected. It leaves you wondering what is going to happen next ? Great story with a lot of thoughts.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It starts off with that familiar teenage chaos meaning the impulsive decisions, dramatic friendships, and those “end of the world” emotions only teens can deliver. I found myself smiling at the messiness, the humor, and the way every moment felt bigger than life. But as the story unfolded, something shifted. There was a quiet thread running underneath everything, a little religious‑psychological tension that made the characters’ choices feel heavier and more meaningful. It wasn’t preachy or overwhelming. It was just enough to make you pause and think.
Somewhere along the way, I realized I wasn’t just watching a game play out. I was watching these characters try to figure out who they were, what they believed, and how much of themselves they were willing to risk for love, loyalty, or the idea of being chosen. It surprised me, but in a good way. I didn’t expect to care about them the way I did.
By the end, I felt like I’d gone on a small emotional ride that I didn’t see coming. The Breakup Game is entertaining, yes, but it’s also unexpectedly thoughtful. A teenage whirlwind with a deeper pulse beneath it. Not at all what I expected. It leaves you wondering what is going to happen next ? Great story with a lot of thoughts.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2026
This one was okay for me, but I think I went into it expecting a little more of a psychological edge than I actually got.
The premise definitely had potential. I liked the idea of the breakup turning into this psychological game of secrets, lies, and manipulation, and there were some moments that kept me curious about where things were going. Kaitlyn and Seth’s back-and-forth made for an interesting dynamic, especially as things continued to escalate.
My biggest issue was that I had a hard time getting fully invested in the psychological-thriller aspect because the characters are teenagers. I think some of the manipulation and mind games would have hit differently for me if the characters were adults. I tend to like my psychological thrillers a little darker, more intense, and with that feeling of “what the heck did I just read?” This one just didn’t quite get me there.
That said, it was an easy read and there was enough happening to keep me turning the pages. I can definitely see this working for readers who enjoy YA thrillers with secrets, relationship drama, and plenty of twists.
The premise definitely had potential. I liked the idea of the breakup turning into this psychological game of secrets, lies, and manipulation, and there were some moments that kept me curious about where things were going. Kaitlyn and Seth’s back-and-forth made for an interesting dynamic, especially as things continued to escalate.
My biggest issue was that I had a hard time getting fully invested in the psychological-thriller aspect because the characters are teenagers. I think some of the manipulation and mind games would have hit differently for me if the characters were adults. I tend to like my psychological thrillers a little darker, more intense, and with that feeling of “what the heck did I just read?” This one just didn’t quite get me there.
That said, it was an easy read and there was enough happening to keep me turning the pages. I can definitely see this working for readers who enjoy YA thrillers with secrets, relationship drama, and plenty of twists.
September 15, 2026
Alright, I received this as an audiobook from the author, which I am eternally grateful! I love finding new thrillers as mystery/thriller is my love and go-to genre. All of that being said, this book was not for me.
This book is marketed as a psychological thriller, following Kaitlyn Boyd as she's navigating the immediate change in her boyfriends entire demeanor of what she knew. He knows all of her secrets and is here to expose her to everyone she knows.
The entirety of this book felt very juvenile and more high school drama than psychological thriller. I wasn't on the edge of my seat, I just wanted all the characters to grow up. The first reveal felt extremely...delusional....The second reveal was just....a lot....Every single character needs therapy, that includes the "adults".
Very disappointed I didn't like this and need a good thriller palette cleanser.
This book is marketed as a psychological thriller, following Kaitlyn Boyd as she's navigating the immediate change in her boyfriends entire demeanor of what she knew. He knows all of her secrets and is here to expose her to everyone she knows.
The entirety of this book felt very juvenile and more high school drama than psychological thriller. I wasn't on the edge of my seat, I just wanted all the characters to grow up. The first reveal felt extremely...delusional....The second reveal was just....a lot....Every single character needs therapy, that includes the "adults".
Very disappointed I didn't like this and need a good thriller palette cleanser.
September 4, 2026
I felt this book did start out a little slow and I was a bit confused at first. Once the story took off though I could not put it down and just had to finish it. I honestly did not see the twist coming which I enjoyed. Many times with thrillers you can sense what is going to happen. I really enjoyed the author's writing and will definitely need to read the next book when it comes out.
October 12, 2026
This book definitely catches your attention from page one!
I don’t think the goal is to really “like” the main characters, and have to say, I didn’t. But that’s kind of the point, I believe, and the writing style and narration of the audiobook kept me going.
It definitely evoked a lot of feelings as I read, and look forward to the next book from the series!
I don’t think the goal is to really “like” the main characters, and have to say, I didn’t. But that’s kind of the point, I believe, and the writing style and narration of the audiobook kept me going.
It definitely evoked a lot of feelings as I read, and look forward to the next book from the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sean and Kaitlyn have this strange dynamic that is like a roller coaster ride from start to finish. It was a little slow to start but when it really got started I could not put this book down. Kept me on the edge of my seat at the very end.
September 22, 2026
Received this an arc from the Author. Only read a little bit of it and just couldn't get in to it. Seems like it is more for younger readers maybe teen age range. Have to move on to something else. Hate to do that.
October 9, 2026
What the hell did I just read?
It started out normal then went somewhere beyond comprehension. I kept waiting for her to wake up from a dream or aliens to admit to taking her. A teen boy is not remotely smart enough to do something like this.
It started out normal then went somewhere beyond comprehension. I kept waiting for her to wake up from a dream or aliens to admit to taking her. A teen boy is not remotely smart enough to do something like this.
Review of advance copy
This was an ARC book for me. This book did not go the way and I thought and that’s a good thing. I started to like Seth but right away I knew he was trouble. Very fast, easy read.
September 26, 2026
Well written but not for me.
October 24, 2026
I so did not want to finish this. It made no sense at times, and I had very little interest in what happened. This has not been my year for books.
September 14, 2026
📖 The Breakup Game 🖤
✨ Vibe: Fast paced • Twisted • Psychological Thriller
⭐Rating: 3.5⭐
📝 The Gist
Kaitlyn’s the “good” Catholic girl striving to do right… until Seth breaks up with her. Her world unravels fast, she spins lies to shield friends & family from the chaos he leaves behind.
💭 My Thoughts
✅ Solid debut & gripping series start
✅ Built on lies & mind games
✅ Seth = totally unhinged 🤯
✅ Obsessed with Kaitlyn’s unreliable narrator energy
✅ Upper YA, but perfect for adults who love dark reads
🎧 Audiobook Highlight
Narrator was phenomenal and so captivating! Pulls you deep into her mind; every twist hits harder.
👉 Verdict: Can’t wait for what’s next!
📖Full Review: Fast-paced, twisted psychological thriller
Kaitlyn is raised as a “good” Catholic girl striving to stay true to her values but when her boyfriend Seth ends things, her world begins to unravel. She spins webs of lies to protect the truth, desperate to shield her relationships with friends and family from the chaos Seth leaves behind.
This is a strong debut novel and a compelling start to a series: an excellent introduction to a world built on deception and mind games. Seth is undeniably unhinged, and Kaitlyn feels the crushing weight of pressure to be the perfect daughter. She’s an unreliable protagonist, and I enjoyed every minute of it.
Though it leans toward upper YA territory, this thriller will resonate with any adult who enjoys getting lost in a dark, twisted story. The audiobook narration is phenomenal: the narrator’s captivating delivery draws you deep into Kaitlyn’s mind, making every plot twist hit with extra intensity. I’m eagerly anticipating where the author takes Kaitlyn and Seth’s story next.
✨ Vibe: Fast paced • Twisted • Psychological Thriller
⭐Rating: 3.5⭐
📝 The Gist
Kaitlyn’s the “good” Catholic girl striving to do right… until Seth breaks up with her. Her world unravels fast, she spins lies to shield friends & family from the chaos he leaves behind.
💭 My Thoughts
✅ Solid debut & gripping series start
✅ Built on lies & mind games
✅ Seth = totally unhinged 🤯
✅ Obsessed with Kaitlyn’s unreliable narrator energy
✅ Upper YA, but perfect for adults who love dark reads
🎧 Audiobook Highlight
Narrator was phenomenal and so captivating! Pulls you deep into her mind; every twist hits harder.
👉 Verdict: Can’t wait for what’s next!
📖Full Review: Fast-paced, twisted psychological thriller
Kaitlyn is raised as a “good” Catholic girl striving to stay true to her values but when her boyfriend Seth ends things, her world begins to unravel. She spins webs of lies to protect the truth, desperate to shield her relationships with friends and family from the chaos Seth leaves behind.
This is a strong debut novel and a compelling start to a series: an excellent introduction to a world built on deception and mind games. Seth is undeniably unhinged, and Kaitlyn feels the crushing weight of pressure to be the perfect daughter. She’s an unreliable protagonist, and I enjoyed every minute of it.
Though it leans toward upper YA territory, this thriller will resonate with any adult who enjoys getting lost in a dark, twisted story. The audiobook narration is phenomenal: the narrator’s captivating delivery draws you deep into Kaitlyn’s mind, making every plot twist hit with extra intensity. I’m eagerly anticipating where the author takes Kaitlyn and Seth’s story next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, I’ll start by saying this isn’t the book genre I would usually read, but this one caught my attention and I really wanted to give it a go. Lucky for me I got this as an ARC copy.
The book had me into the story from the get go, my sympathy for Kaitlyn in her first boyfriend and breakup to the rage and dislike I had for Seth. When I wasn’t reading I was thinking out the story and how it would turn out, blew my mind! I did not see that ending
The book had me into the story from the get go, my sympathy for Kaitlyn in her first boyfriend and breakup to the rage and dislike I had for Seth. When I wasn’t reading I was thinking out the story and how it would turn out, blew my mind! I did not see that ending
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews