Sex, Lies & Stellenbosch

by Eva Mazza

Based on true events, Sex, Lies & Stellenbosch uncovers what really goes on behind closed doors in the seemingly up-standing community of Stellenbosch, one of South Africa's wealthiest small towns, where 3 400 dollar millionaires live (before they invested in Steinhoff shares). Written as fiction to protect the innocent, the book exposes the explosive dark truths of the Winelands' elite. All is revealed through the eyes of stay at home mom, 49-year-old Jen, who is the wife of John, a renowned wine farmer and businessman. Jen, like many of her privileged friends, lives a charmed life provided by her husband, in exchange for conjugal sex and obligatory wifely gratitude. When Jen stumbles upon her playboy husband in a compromising position with his sexy employee, things fall apart. Jen is forced to choose between leaving her marriage, jeopardising her standing and stability in the community or turning a blind eye to his infidelity. The book follows Jen's passage to self-discovery and self-fulfillment, while other characters' perspectives move the story forward as each is privy to (and eventually reveals) at least one 'truth' or 'lie' which Jen must face. Jen's exposition of her husband's infidelity inadvertently mirrors the underbelly of the patriarchal and often duplicitous community of the seemingly perfect Stellenbosch. Led by prominent wine farmers, international businessmen and renowned academics, business and private interests, even if ethically compromised, are staunchly guarded. The unfolding chapters irreverently explore both the emotional growth of the protagonist, Jen, as well as the moral ambiguities of the other players in the book. Characters like Lee, John's childhood friend and unknown ally to Jen, and marriage wrecker, Patty, blur lines between right and wrong and what is decent and moral. The alluring opulence of the rich and privileged setting of the famed Cape Winelands is complemented by the very real, often funny and indeed relatable crises that Jen is forced to confront. Sex,Lies & Stellenbosch is a page turner - sexy, fast-paced and entertaining.

Genres: Fiction, Chick Lit, South Africa

240 pages, Paperback

Published February 1, 2019

Reviews

[Lorraine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is exactly what you pick up when you are looking to "read for pure enjoyment and entertainment value".

I liked the story. Pure pure dramatic elements. Beautiful wealthy setting amongst vineyards, boutiques and bespoke restaurants. Hip bars which sell pink drinks and imported water. Rich women of absolute leisure. Handsome and virile husbands with questionable characters and rock hard or soft, paunchy abdominals. Make your pick. Farms for all sorts of ailments and treatments.

It's been hailed as a fictionalised but true depiction of a slice of life in wealthy Stellenbosch. I could pick up a few true-life events like the university professor who was dismissed for fraternising with students, otherwise the rest of the vignettes which made up the plot were not so hard to visualise. A world I could only imagine.

The plot rose at a steady pace for about 225 pages and then suddenly events took a sharp turn. Our protagonist made a 360° turn into this wo-MANDLA. 100% chick lit. A book club choice indeed. The dramatic elements and themes would definitely make for a great discussion as well as the problematic parts too. Fiction must be believable and plausible. There were some elements I didn't relate to because of the known history between our protagonist and her supporting characters. But alas, history is not a blueprint of anything, right! The finish felt like a scramble. A race against time.

Most threads of the storyline were predictable and I could presume their natural conclusion.

A light read for a niche market.

[Claire Hondo · Rating 5 out of 5]

“As much as you want your children to hold the institution of marriage in high regard, what kind of message will you give them by staying married because you’ve ‘nowhere to go’?

The drama all begins following the birthday party of John, a sociopathic philandering husband of Jen the naive housewife being caught pants down and getting a bj from his employee. Secrets are revealed, friendships and loyalties are tested and broken with so many truths unfolding. I enjoyed this page-turner seeing how the winery elites lived since it’s a fictional version of the true lives of the wealthy masses of Stellenbosch. Yes, it might have been predictable in some parts and too fictional in others but in the end, it all blends well into a great read. Now off to the second book of the series💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾

[Zinhle Ngidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is about Jen, a wife to a wine farm owner. Had 2 children and they were filthy rich with their circle of friends who mostly were in the same industry. John, a cheat that slept with most women in Stellenbosch including his wife’s so called friends.

A very interesting and a page turner that will keep you glued for hours learning how rich and famous live and how unhappy some wives can be while having all the money in the world. When everyone knows about your cheating partner while you try by all means to make a warm home and raising kids. While you laugh with your friends on the side they sleep with your husband under your nose. Hey uyahlupha uJohn bo.

It takes a very strong and determined woman to leave such marriage behind and restart her life. With support from honest friends, Jen turned her life around. Like all of us, we are given second chances to life, it is always up to us to grab it with both hands or fail because you are so used to lean on someone else or to shield yourself under someones shadow. Jen was proof that only good things can happen when people are given the space they need to be themselves.

I loved the psychologist that helped Jen, Sharon. Wow! The questions forced her to search her inner-self more than about what John had done. What I also took out from this book, it does not matter how old you are, how your past has been- you can still turn your life around and do things that you always wanted to do.
Last but not least, some people own those beautiful houses, drive expensive cars, with kids that go to private schools and have bank balances that will shock you, but that is never a guarantee of happiness. Behind those closed doors, mostly, it’s pain, unhappiness and loneliness. They laugh on the streets, presenting a perfect family or couple but yooooo- hhay read Stellenbosch story uzozwa. Don’t go around envying other peoples lives, you will be shocked!!!

[Anne-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apparently this book is based on true events and I can very well believe it. Things like this not only happens in a town like Stellenbosch, I think it happens anywhere where people think they are untouchable because they have too much money. Especially men, unfortunately. Powerful men have always attracted a certain kind of woman and were prone to a certain lifestyle of abandonment and debauchery. This sounds like a generalisation, but in fact it is also true a lot of the time.

Sex, Lies & Stellenbosch succeeds, in my opinion, in telling us what really goes on behind closed doors in a seemingly up-standing community, without getting sleazy. It gives the reader characters to despise, like John and Frankie, and characters to love, like Jen and Lee, even if no-one is without faults. It shows that even with all the money going around, some people still have the strength to do the right thing.

Jen is forced to choose between leaving John, her cheating asshole of a husband, jeopardising her standing and stability in the community or turning a blind eye to his infidelity. This story is mainly Jen's story. But it is also the story of many women in abusive marriages. The husband does not need to hit the wive to be abusive. There is so many ways to undermine a wife and make her feel unworthy.

Sex, Lies & Stellenbosch is not a literary prize winner, but a book I thoroughly enjoyed because I loved to see the emotional growth of Jen, as well as the moral ambivalence of the other characters in the book. A character like Patty blurs the lines between right and wrong for the reader and without really wanting to, you find that you start liking Patty as well.

Sex, Lies & Stellenbosch was indeed a page turner for me - a nice story with all the elements of a heroine coming into her own and a bastard husband getting his due. The setting of the story, namely Stellenbosch, is just a minor detail - this could have happened anywhere in the world of the rich.

[Sithara Govender · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. It was good for what it was. Good gossip and secrets revealed

[Tiaan La Grange · Rating 1 out of 5]

Yeah, no. It wasn't for me.

[Raeesa · Rating 3 out of 5]

First of all, a massive thank you to Balakudu Africa and NB Publishers for the review copy of this book.

I honestly enjoyed it much more than I thought I would. What really hit me was the entertainment factor - with all the drama, cheating and lies, this book reminded me of a reality TV show (in the best way!)

We follow an elite group of people living in the winelands of Stellenbosch. The book starts with Jen finding her husband in a compromising position with one of his employees, and this discovery is what catapults the story. From there, the book is filled with more and more secrets and lies being exposed. . .

It's seriously addictive. I sat down to read a few chapters, and before I knew it, I had read through nearly the entire book. It's a very short read, and a lot happens in the few pages, making it very fast paced and easy to get through.

The writing style didn't work for me personally. I felt like some of the scenes were written in a very cringy manner, and the dialogue felt unrealistic at times.

Other than that, it was extremely fun. This is definitely the type of book you pick up when you're in a reading slump, or need something fun to take your mind off of things.

[LUNTU SIPUKA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took time for me to sink my teeth in, I suppose I was hoping for the scandalous at the very beginning as I was promised but Eva does deliver and the twist that makes you want to rush and buy the second book.

Jen is a housewife who has dedicated her life to John who by the way is a typical playboy. Jen finds John with Patty a friend and wine rep for their wines in a compromising position, which is what begins the entire journey of self discovery, self worth and realisation that Johns friend Lee was and is her fairy godfather.

Jens reflection on her friendship with Lees wife and best friend Frankie , her daughter Bridget, John ,Patty allow her to stand up for herself for once and with the help of newly found friends Claudia and Sharon who help her in this tumultuous journey make it all worth while.

Scandalous , saucy and funny. Once you sink your teeth in you won’t put it down.

[Jodi Allemeier · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book start to finish in one sitting which must be a good thing, but I found it comprised two books: the first 3/4 is a story of a woman gearing for divorce, which had lots of real and relatable moments although probably read before. I enjoyed the “Stellenbosch mafia” setting. The last 1/4 is nothing more than a desperate housewife’s escape fantasy of post-divorce life where she is rescued by magically appearing money, gains friends for whome it’s unclear what they’re getting from the new friendship other than that they are needed, returning to a high school crush etc. I didn’t enjoy the fantasy part - it was unrelatable and irritatingly filled with cliches and re-assuring tropes for the protagonist.

[Semole · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this page turner,although I found the last third of the book to be unrealistic.

[Kirsten · Rating 3 out of 5]

The last third of the book saved it for me.

[Vorn · Rating 1 out of 5]

Borderline unreadable

[Susan · Rating 1 out of 5]

By far the worst book I have read in the last decade. Such an realistic plot and predictable story line.

[Jessy · Rating 1 out of 5]

This may be the worst book I have ever attempted to read and to think the last 1/3, which I didn’t manage to read because my self-preserving mechanisms kicked in and told me to get a life - are supposed to be the worst bit - my word. At first the book did do the trick for me to read in bed before falling asleep because it was so numbing but slowly numbness made way for irritation. How did this get published and how did Exclusive books decide to put it on front display? The novel is badly written with chunky language and POV changes in every other paragraph (and inside paragraphs at some points), novice writer, maybe forgivable I first thought (alas it seems the first few chapters are the most polished). Then there’s the storyline and honestly I can’t understand how anyone who wasn’t directly involved in whatever drama the author found herself in, would care. Why would you care that there’s a cheating husband on a South African wine farm? Why? Or that another farmer married white trash? The author does nothing to get us invested in the characters. The only shocker that keeps readers going is, I guess, the realization that rich people are messed up humans too? All the scandals in this novel are milked for full effect, every page screams OMG this is shocking and yet what translates to me is ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Why should I care? Everyone is a stereotype and cheap plot devices are all over. The worst to me was the psychologist who works with abused children who very deservingly checks herself in at the 30K rand / night Delaire for a few days to unwind and rejuvenate so she can go back out there to be a pillar to real human beings. Only to find herself readily and lovingly (!!) having to treat a boring helpless luxury housewife and listen to her boring story about a husband who cheats (who cares?!). In short, read this novel if you’re a rich Stellenbosch housewife or if you work for one. Everyone else, spare your sanity.

[Roelia (Roelia Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

After seeing the hype about the third book in this trilogy, “Sex, Lies and Alibis” being released, I was thrilled when I was asked if I would be interested in reading all three books in the series. “Oh wow, of course – yes please!” was my enthusiastic reply!

Picturesque scenery and the breath-taking beauty of the Winelands. Secrets, behind the ‘glamour’ and privilege. Loyalties and friendships may not be what it seems, in this saucy page-turner. In my mind I dubbed it the “Real Housewives of Stellenbosch with a twist”!

Although this book is saucy, it’s not necessarily graphic or sleezy. It also tells the story of a woman coming to her own, finding her own, brave voice again. It is about second chances. “Sex, Lies and Stellenbosch” also evokes conversation about ageism, privilege, and patriarchy.

There are some strange coincidences and a healthy dose of cliches – or is that what happens when the stars align? It is not a dealbreaker though, as this scandalous book is light, addictive, witty and easy to get lost in – perfect for the holiday period, an ideal beach read.

[Ingrid Lomas]

I met Eva Mazza on a writing workshop in Venice a few years ago and fell in love with her as well - (I say as well as I have never fallen out of love with Eckhart you understand!) Eva was writing Christine at the time (so I got to know “C” quite well too). But low and behold it was Sex, Lies & Stellenbosch that was going to prove to be her first book as well as a No 1 best seller. Being more geared towards books of a spiritual and biographical nature at the time of it’s launch I never-the-less found myself sprinting through this page turner. It has been the same with the long-awaited and recently released Christine. I particularly enjoyed the relationships and accompanying dialogue Eva captured in her inimitable style in the South African section of the book. Go girl go. You’re a winner through and through and I love you for being you and for all that you have achieved! Mwah.

[Monene Moila · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Sex, Lies and Stellenbosch” by Eva Mazza initially caught me off guard—it started off almost “too scandalously”, a far cry from my usual reads…even though the title itself gives you a fair warning.

But as the narrative unfolded the sensational and saucy lives of the rich, it gradually revealed layers of profound themes: The tension between appearance and reality, the intricacies of identity, the interplay of love and lust, and the transformative journey from self-sacrifice to self-actualisation. It also touched on betrayal, societal expectations, and the quest for redemption, adding even more depth to an already provocative tale.

The book grew on me with every page, and I absolutely loved how it ended—a heartbroken housewife finally finding freedom at fifty. Proving that it’s never too late to call back your energy.

[Rosaria Grasso · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this page turner and found it to be relatable, inspiring and gives hope to those who have gone through the trauma of a broken marriage and a looming divorce. We witness Jen, the main character’s journey from the discovery of her husbands infidelity to her awakening and realization that there is life after pain and suffering. Yes, perhaps the light at end of the proverbial tunnel is extremely bright in this book but it highlights that women are strong. We can overcome and we will survive and always grow through our struggles. I highly recommend this book. Make sure you have a free weekend as you won’t be able to put it down.

[Megz · Rating 3 out of 5]

An easy-reading, drama-filled book the likes of Gossip Girl but with rich people in Stellenbosch, or The 30th Candle but with middle aged white people. I had fun reading this, but as usual, constant reference to brands and excessive wealth annoy me. Anyway, it is necessary for the novel, so I dealt with it. There is little suspense, but a lot of THEY DID WHAT? moments. Recommended for when you want to read a fun novel that will, after some detours, ultimately leave you with happy feelings.

[Juani · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

A fun, witty and charming read. The perfect book if you are looking for some light reading. (Coupled with quite a few steaming hot sex scenes....😜).
The story follows Jen as she comes to terms with her husband’s infidelity and finding her own identity again after 24 years of marriage!

Synopsis: The alluring opulence of the famed Cape Winelands coupled with the very real, often funny and indeed relatable crises suffered by Jen, makes for a sexy, fast-paced page-turner!
#whatwouldjendo 😉

[Hlengz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! Such a great, saucy, local and easy read. Un-put-downable! Who knew that the prim and proper of Stellenbosch could be so scandalous? I loved witnessing Jen grow out of her shell. She transformed into a beautiful butterfly after leaving that disaster of a husband of hers. I just want more women out there to be as strong as Jen. And that Epilogue? Ooooooooo, just what I suspected. So, where to from here? #WhatWouldJenDo? I'm looking forward to the sequel.

[Yvonne Maphosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful read. I loved the twists and turns. Some scenes were predictable but it didn't spoil the story.

Part 3 was a bit too far fetched for me. Suddenly, Jen was wonderwoman, getting it all. I didn't understand how she became besties with Sharon and Claudia. The friendship felt unrealistic.

All in all, it was an easy read. I went through it in one night.

I love that I could relate to the places. Next time I'm at Delaire Graff, I'll remember Jen

[Gay-Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved, loved, loved this book, so much so I went out and bought the second one and there is a third installment ahead! I do not want to give anything away, let's just say...The lifestyle the characters live was intriguing because I am familiar with the surroundings, in the sense that, one can only dream of living where the characters are living and dining at, and let us not talk about the scandaaalssss daaaarrllliinnngggg! The scandals were as juicy as the juiciest peach. ten out of ten.

[yusrah · Rating 4 out of 5]

the drama was insane, this book really made me question my morality because i was genuinely shipping people that had NO BUSINESS being shipped 😭

i also loved reading a book that takes place in stellenbosch and cape town and being able to visualise exactly the setting as a student at stellies and homegrown in cpt. “we went to eat at a pizza place in drop street” like hell yeah i’ve been in dorp street irl

[Anita Watson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some of the descriptions regarding interior decorating gets rather tedious at times. It was a shock for me that a South African writer would make use of generally accepting swear words used by international authors.
This book makes for an easy read though despite the elements I did not enjoy. I would still recommend this if you love scandals of the rich and famous.

[Magda w RPA · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s a quick, easy ready about sex, drama, too much money and privilege in Stellenbosch. Certainly trashy and far-fetched at points, but enjoyable.
Quite an achievement to create a book where none of the characters are likeable. Perhaps the protagonist was meant to be, but I disliked her too. I enjoyed disliking them all, though.

[Ml Lalonde · Rating 2 out of 5]

More of a 2.5 for me. Picked this up at a bookstore in Swakopmund, to read whilst travelling. While the basic story was interesting and had potential (woman discovers a web of lies around her primary relationships) the execution could have been better. None of the characters had much of a believable interior life and no one was particularly likeable. I’m glad I finished it, though, because I cared enough about the action to want to know how it ended.

[Amy van Rooyen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love that this was written by a South African author and details a town that it known for its lucrative practices, hidden behind the luscious wine farms.

Favourite quotes:
"Well you certainly are proof that good things can happen when people are given the space they need to be themselves."
"But my journey has not only been about letting go, it has been about letting go with love."

[Des · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely devoured this book!!

There is nothing new to the story line, I'm sure we have all read the same vein before... but for some reason, this book pulled me in and I was hooked. Probably because I relate to our protagonist in so many ways. This is a definite must read.

[Enid · Rating 2 out of 5]

A friend recommended this book, supposedly based on reality in Stellenbosch. Being South African, I was curious. I did finish the book though I found it all very predictable although the author does try to add a spin on the events.