Audrey

by Sean-Paul Thomas

From the author of My Sister and I and The Old Man and The Princess (recently optioned to be a motion picture) - comes a new, suspenseful romantic tale that will knock you off your feet. A story that has a reminiscence of ‘500 days of Summer’ and ‘Midnight in Paris’ with a fair dollop of ‘The Graduate’ thrown in. And of course Audrey, a delightful, older female protagonist who takes the young and wayward ex-con Joe under her wing.

Just out of prison Joe, a young builder from Edinburgh who writes movie scripts in his spare time, randomly meets Audrey, a washed-up, hard-drinking, chain-smoking, middle-aged French film actress at his local film festival. After hitting it off and spending one crazy, magical night together, Audrey sees some potential in Joe and his writing and tries to help him win back his estranged daughter by getting his first screenplay made into a movie in Paris. And so, the adventure of a lifetime begins…


What readers are saying about Audrey -

'This story was such a pleasure to read. Elegantly written “Audrey” pulled me in from the get-go and kept me captivated until the very last word'

'Angsty, heartwarming story and I just loved the ending.

'Audrey is full of unexpected delights and a riot in many ways. We have an introvert meeting an extrovert in a crazy relationship that can never last. Along the way we travel the streets of Paris visiting multiple establishments, we drink a lot, smoke a lot, swear a lot and yes lots of hanky-panky.

'What a journey “Audrey” gives and the best fiction I've read from this author so far, hopefully, there will be more to come'

'Audrey was a riot. She was a free spirit who challenged Joe in ways he had never been pushed before. As an introvert, she pulled him out of his shell, put him in crazy situations, and made him happy. So happy that he was able to love again. I enjoyed the way the author characterized their relationship. It definitely kept my attention as much as it kept Joe on his toes'

'The author's writing made this story a winner'

'Sometimes this kind of novel just hits the spot. A wild-ass ride, of cutting loose, rubbing shoulders with people who ought to be way out of your league, while pining about those you've left behind, and seeing an opportunity to realize all your wildest dreams, be it sexual, professional, or just getting that forgiveness that has driven you crazy for years'

'I would recommend this book to all lovers of romance, suspense, and dark drama.'

'The novel “Audrey” by Sean-Paul Thomas is another great book written by a writer who always surprises me with his creativity and imagination. The writer draws us into the story with elegant writing and it was simply a pleasure to read. The characters, the setting in which this romantic story is set are beautifully described and elaborated so that you can imagine every detail'

'Audrey is a lovely tale of redemption, with a cast of characters that make this book one you just cannot put down'

'Audrey by Sean-Paul Thomas does something I love to see in fiction. It flips a story on its head. The whirlwind of a romance with a woman in the entertainment industry twenty years Joe’s age is fun to read and Sean-Paul does dialogue well. The book draws you in and gives you a journey that is fun and worthwhile.'

'Desperation or gamble? I had a great time trying to figure out where it would fall. It didn't hurt that it was so glamorous at every level.'

'Audrey is a fascinating woman, confident and charismatic, it is absolutely normal that when she appears to monopolize everyone's attention'

'This story was so beautifully written, the plot flowed smoothly from page to page and the characters were created with such great detail and depth that I remained totally enraptured throughout'

Genres: Fiction, Romance

300 pages, ebook

First published February 14, 2021

About the author

Scottish Author/Screenwriter.

Best Selling Kindle Author of 'The Old Man and The Princess'

A new book just out - Audrey -

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...


Sean is an author from Scotland. He is the best-selling Kindle Author of 'The Old Man and The Princess' which was recently optioned to be a major motion picture.

Sean spent most of his childhood and teenage years on the move with his Scottish and Irish army Parents growing up in the likes of Cyprus, Germany, Wales, and England, as an army brat.

With a keen interest in both reading and writing, he was diagnosed with travel and writing bugs very early in life. Now, writing, travelling, reading, cinema, meditation, yoga and Scottish football (Supporting the mighty Hibernian for his sins) are his main passions in life.

So far Sean has 16 self-published works of fiction including his best selling kindle ebook 'My Sister and I' and 'The Old Man and The Princess'

Ask me any questions and be kept up to date about new books, and forthcoming releases by joining my Facebook and Instagram page below.


Screenwriting Accolades to date -

Winner of the Inroads Screenwriting Fellowship 2020 for his horror/thriller screenplay - Ugly Beautiful.

A finalist at the 2018 Nashville Film Festival Screenwriting competition for his road trip/fantasy/thriller screenplay 'The Old Man and The Princess.'

A finalist at Cinequest 2022 for my historical fantasy screenplay - The Pict.

A Finalist at the 2021 Bluecat Screenwriting competition for his horror/thriller screenplay - My Sister and I.

One of ten writers selected for the 2020 Nostos Screenwriting Retreat Scholarship in October for his latest Sci-Fi/Mystery screenplay - Sagarmatha

A finalist at the Filmatic Thriller Awards 2020 for his Action/Thriller screenplay - Cold Heart.

A finalist at the Filmatic TV Pilot Awards 2019 for his Action/Thriller screenplay - Cold Heart.


So far Sean has 16 self-published works of fiction including his best-selling Kindle ebooks 'My Sister and I' and 'The Old Man and The Princess'

Ask me any questions and be kept up to date about new books, and forthcoming releases by joining my Facebook and Instagram page below.

https://www.instagram.com/seanpaultho...

Reviews

[Stjepan Cobets · Rating 5 out of 5]

My rating 4.8

The novel “Audrey” by Sean-Paul Thomas is another great book written by a writer who always surprises me with his creativity and imagination. The writer draws us into the story with elegant writing and it was simply a pleasure to read this book. The characters, the setting in which this romantic story is set are beautifully described and elaborated so that you can imagine every detail in your head.

And now a little about the book: Joe loves to write stories from his early youth, but life often has its strange ways, and he continues his father’s tradition by working as a plumber. He soon marries a girl from the neighborhood and starts a family, and puts writing on hold. But then the finger of fate intervenes and he ends up in jail. After five years gets out of jail. His world is devastated by events from his past. His ex-wife does not want to see him and does not even allow him to see his daughter Rebecca. Joe returns to the job he previously worked with his silly Irish friend who loves singing karaoke at a local pub in Edinburgh. Since he loves movies, he makes his friend go to the Edinburgh Film Festival to watch a new French film. There, due to a combination of circumstances, he sees the medieval actress Audrey and his world changes completely. What was impossible to imagine overnight is changing because of that beautiful striking actress. Audrey calls him to the city of bright Paris because she liked his scripts. But each of them has their secrets and whether their relationship will grow into something more, none of them can be sure.

I would recommend the book to all lovers of romance, suspense, and dark drama. I’m sure reading lovers will love this unique story.

[Dana Ilie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sean is my favorite of the young authors. I don't understand why he doesn't enjoy even greater success because the man really knows how. The characters are realistically drawn, with qualities and defects, with real baggage and problems, with dramas. The main protagonist, Joe is a young man who, due to a mistake, had all his long-term plans shattered, it seems to me personally that the punishment was much too mild for what he did, but that is not important. Audrey is a fascinating woman, confident and charismatic, it is absolutely normal that when she appears to monopolize everyone's attention.
The evolution of their relationship is not an ideal one, it is much closer to reality, with surprising moments, with actions that lead to disappointments, with hot scenes, with interesting dialogue.
The end is a happy one, but not in the sense that most expect ....

[Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been following this author for a while so I never hesitate to pick up any of his novels. The novels have range and style, from YA whimsical to hardcore ragefest to mystery to light road-trip. And more, of course, but this one happened to go the route of ROMANCE.

Film nostalgia, romance, writing, greed, and friendship. The currents flowing in this one are full of redemption, or at least for the unhinged desire for it. Romance is the key, however, and I mean that on all levels, not just the romantic kind.

Sometimes this kind of novel just hits the spot. A wild-ass ride, of cutting loose, rubbing shoulders with people who ought to be way out of your league, while pining about those you've left behind, and seeing an opportunity to realize all your wildest dreams, be it sexual, professional, or just getting that forgiveness that has driven you crazy for years.

Desperation or gamble? I had a great time trying to figure out where it would fall. It didn't hurt that it was so glamorous at every level. :)

Well worth the read.

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sean-Paul Thomas is a Scottish author and screenwriter, that I’ve read books by before and happily enjoyed. He’s an eclectic writer, often writing dark, gritty, mysterious and black humour filled novels and his books - “My Sister and I” along with “The Old Man and the Princess” (of which I’ve read both) fit those descriptions perfectly.
Sean-Paul’s latest novel “AUDREY” is equally well written but has a different direction in writing style in which this is a romantic women’s fiction novel that focuses on a relationship between a young Scottish man, recently released from jail and an older French actress.
I was instantly intrigued by the prologue and the introduction of Joe, as he is greeted by his mate Colm, upon leaving prison for a crime we don’t get privy to for quite a while. We then get a build up to Joe’s life before prison, his estranged ex-wife and young daughter and his hopes and dreams of becoming a screenwriter. When he attends a premiere of a French film at the local film festival, he is smitten by one of the cast Audrey, at a Q & A session following the showing of the film. Striking up a conversation with this elegant French actress they become more than just friends. But is the relationship what it seems to be and can Audrey be the success to his screenwriting hopes? Taking us from the gritty streets of Glasgow to the atmospheric and beautiful areas of Paris, Audrey and Joe take on a misogynistic and arrogant film director. The subject theme here fits perfectly with the current #MeToo movement and is written so delicately and engaging that I had a hard time putting this entertaining book down. Joe and Audrey make a superb couple and I immensely enjoyed their dialogue and often humorous banter.
Sean-Paul Thomas is an exceptionally talented writer with an amazing imagination for writing dark and comedic novels and now, with the publication of “Audrey”, he can successfully add softer and more genteel storylines to his repertoire.

#Audrey - 4.5 stars

[Natasa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. Have nothing bad to say about it was definitely my cup of tea. Good start characters were well developed and left me wanting more than the story progressed. I really liked the end of the book and that will be a surprise to all who read a book. The plot is intriguing and takes you along to some unexpected plot twists. A real page-turner I would definitely recommend to everyone when is out.

This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a few of this author's books and I've learned to expect the unexpected. The tale of Audrey was full of unexpected delights. Joe was a man who wished to atone for his misdeeds. After being released from prison, all he wants is to reconnect with his daughter and perhaps pick up his one true passion - writing. Getting close to his daughter proves to be harder than he ever thought possible. His ex is still angry, there's a huge disconnect, and he hasn't a clue how to bridge the gap. He lucks into the deal of a lifetime, realizing his dream, which forces him to acknowledge what is most important... his child.

Audrey was a riot. She was a free spirit who challenged Joe in ways he had never been pushed before. As an introvert, she pulled him out of his shell, put him in crazy situations, and made him happy. So happy that he was able to love. I enjoyed the way the author characterized their relationship. It definitely kept my attention as much as it kept Joe on his toes! While this story doesn't have the typical romantic ending, it did end on a high note and the author's writing made this story a winner, happy ending or not.

[Faith Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. I can be fairly confident in saying this story is unique and convincingly breaks the usual romance formula in several respects.

Firstly, a lead male character wouldn't conventionally have this sort of background in either past experience or a more reality-based geographical origin (big Scottish city). He is very careful, humble, reliable and in control of himself most of the time as if he's been put in his place long ago and accepted Fate's justice (like a good prospect for a family man, not a dominant egoprick) but that maturity also trips into reckless courage when it is needed to keep someone safe (those heartbeat moments). That ticks 2 boxes. He has a mysterious past regret too that he doesn't like to talk about (mmm… depths are strangely appealing - 3 boxes). Does he seek forgiveness or a renewing purpose? He does seem to have an artistic calling (… 4).

The leading lady he encounters and strings along with is a very long way from a Disney figurine herself, not even within a standard issue industry age range of usually between 19 and a quarter to 19 and a half. Possibly closer to the average reader's age range? Cunning. Instead, she's immersed in a superbly creative cultural atmosphere, a glamorous enigma who's resilient to superficiality, which shows in a radiance of under-stated cool-couture, panache and suddenly I'm using French words now, including one you only see on tiny bottles. The best friend (his) is the type of oaf you'd not think out of place in an Irvine Welsh movie, so there's no doubt which one the reader is supposed to root for.

Lo-fi for the soul? It's not just the art-house vibe though. This film has a reality to it, an aspiration-driven rise for sure but there's the sense it's all natural and acceptable for this guy to follow the path he ends up taking. He deserves something decent to happen to him at last, to lay his ghosts and find redemption.

I thought it was an excellent book. It's a departure by this author from his usual subject matter, but still gritty in places and most often unexpectedly heart-warming, so that's pleasant to discover too.

[Toni Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr. Thomas has an unimaginable range of style and topics from mystery to romance, from books for young adults to some not meant for immature person. You name the genre and for sure you will find one in his library that will catch your fancy. I am honoured to have received this latest from Sean-Paul to read and provide my honest and unbiased thoughts. Thank you.

Short Blurb

“Just out of prison, a young Scottish builder and aspiring writer, meets a washed-up, heavy-drinking, chain-smoking, middle-aged French film actress who tries to help him win back his estranged daughter by getting his screenplay made into a movie in Paris.”

My thoughts

This story was a pleasure to read. Elegantly written “Audrey” pulled me in from the get-go and kept me captive till the very last word. We have three players in this romantic fiction: Joe, the main character with Audrey Beart, the actress, and as supporting cast, Colm, his true friend. Similar to a screenplay this sweet romance spins a tale of someone out of his league seeing the opportunity to realise his dreams and gambles to get it....Every piece , movement, action, expression and dialogues are vividly describes to express the characters feelings. This story can definitely be a blue print for a movie.

“Audrey” is full of unexpected delights and a riot in many ways. We have an introvert meeting an extrovert in a crazy relationship that can never last. Along the way we travel the streets of Paris visiting multiple establishments, we drink a lot, smoke a lot, swear a lot and yes lots of hanky-panky.

What a journey “Audrey” gives and the best fiction I read from this author so far, hopefully there will be more to come.

Well done, well said.

[Grace J Reviewerlady · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another author new to me and definitely well worth a read!

After five long years in prison, Joe is finally free and getting his life back on track. When he has an off-chance meeting with Audrey, French actress of mature years, there is definitely a connection between them. Joe is a lifelong film buff; indeed his dream is to write a screenplay and see it come to fruition. After one night spent with Audrey he is astonished when she contacts him to follow up on his writing and invite him to Paris for what could be the most important meeting of his life.

It takes some time for us to find out exactly why Joe was incarcerated in the first place; what is clear is that he had no issues with serving his sentence. He comes across as a likeable and charismatic guy who has suffered during the separation from his young daughter. This is a charming and enchanting tale, well-written and quite enthralling. The characters are beautifully created and the story is believable. I really enjoyed reading this novel, and Sean-Paul Thomas is definitely an author to keep an eye on. I have to mention the eye-catching cover; it really draws the eye and does the story justice. If you are looking for something that little bit different, then this is a novel well worth reading. 4.5* from me.

[Georgia · Rating 3 out of 5]

More on Chill and read

I like reading stories set in Scotland. I also love reading stories set in France. So this one having both these elements was bound to be a book I’d definitely read! And you know what? I really enjoyed it!

Joe is a young plumber from Edinburg, working in the building industry, or at least that was his field of work until he found himself to prison. What led him there was his drinking at the time and a terrible, fatal car accident. He was the driver and he went to jail to pay for his crimes. Apart from paying for his crimes, and losing five years of his life, this also meant that he lost five years of his daughter’s life as well. They didn’t really had a chance to get to know each other, since, once he was locked up, his wife requested for a divorce, refused to seem him ever again, and she had all rights to do so according to Joe. Now, Joe is finally out of jail, after having served his sentence, and he is trying to piece his life together. He is lucky enough to have a good friend from the old days that invites him to stay at his house until he founds his way around. He also find him work as well as an old laptop he could use to endure his dream, which is nothing else than writing movie scripts. This was his dream ever since he was a young boy, but he was also a very realistic person and chose to follow his father’s footsteps and make living as a plumber.

Joe loves films, but his Irish friend loves singing karaoke at a local pub. Joe hates karaoke as much as his friend hates films, so they make a deal to attend a Film Festival and then go to the pub and spend a karaoke night. A night they will both do something they love and something they hate! But that night, as they attend a French Film opening, Joe meets one of the actresses of the film, who is also the screen play writer of said film. Her name is Audrey, she’s a bit older than him and she is amazing! After a wonderful night they spent together, Audrey leaves for France without saying as much as a goodbye, only to call him a few days later and invite him to Paris with a proposal. She had read his manuscript and has a film proposal for him by a producer. That’s an offer Joe cannot refuse and he finds himself on a plane to Paris the very next day.

The story continues with the time they spend in Paris, not as lovers, but mostly as friends. Audrey shows Joe around Paris and they have a great time walking the streets and going to places a tourist would not know to visit. She shows him her Paris, along with the sights and she even gives him her spare room to stay while he is in Paris. A wonderful friendship blossoms between them, with Audrey teaching him all he should know about the movie industry in order for him to make his own choices based on facts he could not otherwise know.

The story is very well written and very close to reality. It’s not a magical romance one would dream to live, although not everyone has Joe’s luck to get a chance to the filming industry. Apart from that though, it very well like something anyone could go through. It was a story that I really enjoyed reading!

[Preeti Rajput · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story starts with Joe getting released from jail and Colm receiving him. Joe is an aspiring writer but gets occupied with a plumbing career because of typical social circumstances. In addition, he is married and has a daughter whom he loves unconditionally. After getting released, he once again starts his writing journey and writes a screenplay.

"Audrey" is the female protagonist in the novel, a middle-aged, extremely gorgeous French actress. She is the one who helps Joe establish his most sought-after career of writing and win back her estranged daughter Sarah. It is the story of Joe, the life of Joe, and the struggles of Joe. I didn't understand why the author has to name it after Audrey. Indeed, Joe's life changed thoroughly after meeting her; she acted as the anchor of her life but still, the journey is his own.

One day, he meets Audrey during a film festival, and they instantly get along. Later, she sneaks into his unlocked laptop and runs through the entire script. Impressed by it, she calls him from Paris to get a movie contract for the same. All this sounds so dreamy, but life is not so simple. Joe gets trapped in attempts to ask his wife's forgiveness and get reunited with Sarah, who no longer recognizes him. His movie venture also gets stuck when an ex suddenly reappears, seeking vengeance out of jealousy. With obscure yet believable sub-plots, an absorbing story progresses.

Like the story, writing is also pleasant and elegant that immerses the reader within the first few pages. It is a romantic book with some great punches of humor by Joe's great friend Colm.

In short, it is the kind of book you need for a tranquil and delightful reading experience. All the characters are deeply written and can instantly establish a connection with the reader. One can imagine every scene, every location, and every character so clearly as watching a movie. This story has the full potential of getting converted into a blockbuster film. I would recommend this as a compelling and fantastic read.

[Lydia Cox · Rating 2 out of 5]

I do not think this was translated into English, but it read that way - lots of awkward comments, redudant phrases, and odd grammar. It's also fairly repetitive. I grew bored hearing about her 'adorable accent' and 'cute figure'. The book could have used a very heavy hand in the editing. I'm also kind of tired of books that allude to some incident that happened before the beginning of the book, but keeps you hanging on to find out what it is, and this one kept you guessing (OK, you could figure it out, but still) until almost half way through.
In the opening paragraph, Joe is just getting out of prison. He meets Audrey at a film festival, they share one passionate night, and she goes back home. However Joe is obsessed with her already and it almost takes on a creepy stalker vibe. (The scene at the airport is very cringe-worthy.)
She shows his (stolen off his computer) screenplay to a friend, and they meet up again when Joe goes to Paris to see about making it into a film. Yes, the whole book is like this - contrived situations with far-fetched coincidences.
The characters are either shallow, too perfect, or have no depth. And although Joe and Audrey are in their 30's/40's, they act fairly juvenile.
The book raised itself to two stars by making the ending not the totally predictable closing you expect, although even that is rather abrupt and has a 'wait for the sequel!' feel.

[Eclectic Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first Sean-Paul Thomas novel was a pleasure to read. It surprised me with its opposites attract trope and of course my favorite older woman, younger man plot. The well-written protagonists are mature and so good for each other with Joe the introvert and Audrey the extrovert. 

I found Joe to be very intriguing and relatable with his working-class background, his struggle to see his daughter again after being in prison for five years, and his big dreams of becoming a screenwriter. His introduction to Audrey is his lucky break in many ways. Her outgoing, bold, and confident manner is a great contrast to Joe's careful and awkward demeanor as they find common ground as writers. It is fun to watch Joe blossom in Paris under Audrey's mentoring and guidance as a writer. The chemistry between these two is immediate as Joe is thrown into a world beyond his wildest dreams, but in the end, he chooses what's right for him. It's not a typical HEA but it's fitting and hopeful.

I recommend this heartwarming story about self-discovery and finding what is important in your life. It's an angsty romance filled with humor, hope, and suspense set in beautiful Edinburgh and Paris. Give this wonderful book a try.

Thank you to Mr. Thomas for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

[Julie Barrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audrey by Sean -Paul Thomas
This story starts out when Joe is getting out of prison and his best bud Colm is there to take him in, take him to his apartment and let him stay for as long as he needs to.
Joe was raised and trained by his father and knows plumbing. He loves to write and while imprisoned he was writing, a lot.
Joe is able to talk Colm into going to a movie where he meets a star, he knows a lot about her and that's she was the actual writer of the show, and staring it in! Love hearing all the details of the Paris area, places they went and the landscape.
They do say it's who you know that can get your foot in the door. He loves the sound of all the money but doesn't really want to give it up to another.
He needs the money for his daughter who doesn't even know him. We do learn why he was in prison and how he feels about the situation.
Audrey knows she has to let him go and live his life....
While on the plumbing job he's summoned to the reception area as there is a woman looking for him.
He figures it's a social worker and is surprised.
He had taken a chance as there was a restraining order in place, he just wanted his daughter to have something from him. Love hearing about careers where you use your hands, love all the places he was able to help out because of his profession.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end along with a sample from The Cold Heart.
Praise about My Sister and I along with a sample.
Like how the book works out through good and bad times, surprise ending for me!
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

[Lynelle Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received no compensation for an honest review, the view is completely my own.
This is my first read from the author, Sean-Paul Thomas, and I must commend him for this book. The fast-paced storyline highlights the struggles of a person who is just released from prison.
Joe, a man in his early thirties, finds himself back in civil life, coming to grips with a wife that refuses him any contact with his daughter and begins from scratch.
Colm, a long-time friend, helps him to get back on his feet and encourages him to follow his dream. A lover of all things book-related: which includes movies, and screenwriting, Joe wanted to learn more about the industry. Seeing an advert about an upcoming movie where you can meet the actors and screenwriters, Joe uses the opportunity to get better acquainted with one exquisite Frensch actress, Audrey.
Struggling with life's complexities, Joe finds himself in a bind with family court and knows he has to change or lose it all. The one person who does come through for him is Audrey. Even knowing his past, she hooks him up and soon the ex-con becomes involved in the world of movies. His dream since a very tender age.
The plotline is easygoing, tongue in the cheek humor with some good suspense that takes you on an unusual thrill ride. From Edinburg to Paris, Joe is going places. And his dreams ...
This is a heartwarming story of one person who does all he can to get his life back after an ugly experience. This didn't stop him to re-evaluate his life, himself, and his dreams and really get to the core of it all. Reaching your dreams might not always be what we wish, but in the end, all work out of you believe in yourself. With a little help from friends, of course.
A book I can recommend wholeheartedly.

[ThatBeMeDiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's hard to put into words how I feel about this book because of the many layers.
First I would like the mention the writing and how amazing it is. It is so easy to read this book and get loss in the worldbuilding and movie tangents. I could tell from the writing style that I was going to love this book in the first couple of pages and I was right. Sean-Paul Thomas makes it so EASY to fall in love with Joe and root for his success and reunion with his daughter. Joe is such a well developed character and I really enjoyed diving into his feelings and motivations behind what he does. His passion for writing is very admirable even as he learns about how hard it is to produce work in the real world. Audrey is a girl on fire. She talks like a heiress but has a dark past. Seeing their complicated romance blossom was a joy. They supported each other in a unique way but in the end it was what they both needed for their true aspirations.
Really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it!

[Lisa-Jaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

You never quite know what you're going to get with a Sean-Paul Thomas' book as the subject matters are fairly eclectic but one guarantee you do get...This author heavily invests in his characters bringing you into their world. A love story in many senses, the love of family, the excitement and passion of a new romance which isn't without its problems. Another gem from the pen of S-PT

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

This romantic story is filled with quirky people. First there is Joe who has only been out of prison for a short time and is working construction while he tries to follow his dream of being a screen writer. He meets Audrey, an older actress who becomes interested in his writing and in him. They start an affair that is pretty one sided -- he is in love with her but she considers him just one of many. This is definitely a book to read just to see Joe change his life from being an ex-con to a screen writer.

[Jerry Harwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audrey by Sean-Paul Thomas does something I love to see in fiction. It flips a story on its head. Joe, a blue collar plumber is out of jail and looking to make amends with his ex and connect with his daughter. It looks to be a heart-warming story of redemption. Then enters Audrey.

Meeting her in a chance encounter, Joe is pulled into her world. At first, it appears Audrey is a one night fling till her muddling around and forwarding Joe’s personal work to her email opens another door. Joe is catapulted into a crazy, fun world with Audrey, even if he is an oddball in her world. Or as Audrey puts it, “some kind of dancing windmill on a pogo stick.”

Learning who Joe is in Audrey’s world means figuring out who he is in any world. The whirlwind of a romance with a woman in the entertainment industry twenty years Joe’s age is fun to read and Sean-Paul does dialogue well. There is more language and sexuality than I normally read, but it always fits the scene, character development, and moves the plot along to what is a satisfactory if not surprising end.

As Joe would say “Cheers, big ears. And thanks for having me here.” The book draws you in and gives you a journey that is fun and worthwhile.

[Rose Auburn · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Joe Miller leaves prison after five years, he has very few expectations. His life is in tatters, his ex-wife refuses to let him see their daughter and he’s back working a couple of shifts as a plumber on a building site. However, he still harbours dreams of becoming a scriptwriter, and a chance encounter with a middle-aged French actress sets in motion a chain of events that might just help Joe overcome the past and realise his ambition…

Audrey is fun slice of fairly light-hearted escapism although Joe’s backstory is anything but humorous. Notwithstanding the darker territory of Joe’s reason for being incarcerated, which is revealed just after halfway, Audrey zips along in a sweetly satisfying manner with a touch of intrigue, and I read the book in a couple of sittings. It’s addictive; Joe is likeable and his relationship with old work buddy, Colm, is engaging and quietly heart-warming. Colm is so well-realised that you find yourself cringing along with Joe at some of his antics and the dialogue between them was amusingly authentic.

The plot; older, experienced woman meets younger, slightly introverted guy is given a number of twists and, consequently, feels fresh and creative. Although their relationship forms the nucleus of the narrative, Joe’s development, both as a person and a writer are always at the forefront. There is clearly quite a lot of subjectivity in Joe; sometimes this distracts from a character, but in the case of Audrey, Mr Thomas’ passion amplifies Joe’s making his aspirations entirely credible. Occasionally, the prose is touched with a little too enthusiasm, there are a few repetitive areas and, in places, the pace is excessively breezy but it’s infectious and does not detract.

The contrasts between Joe’s life in Edinburgh and Audrey’s in Paris are stark but balance well and are not over-played. The landscapes of the different settings are authentically brought to life, especially Paris and the film references add to the charm of the city.

Audrey herself is an enigma; both frothy and complex. Mr Thomas manages to keep her the right side of breathy, French caricature and yet I felt the chemistry between her and Joe was lacking in parts, and found Audrey somewhat unlikeable. Nevertheless, it was a nicely inspired touch to make her in her late forties, and there was some insightful commentary on the nature of society towards women of this age and beyond. The story would not have worked anywhere near as well had she been younger.

Audrey is an original, imaginative and entertaining novel. Well worth a read.

[Amy Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnficent Read!!

What a captivating story in Audrey by Sean-Paul Thomas. I haven't read work from this author before, and I enjoyed this story. This author brings Audry to life. It's a remarkably written title where it brings Audrey into a new life, with someone she just met. And it was probably just what she needed. Audrey is a raw and intelligent, and very likeable, especially with her wondrous flasws of hard drinking and chain-smoking. You could almost hear her smoker-induced raspy voice. Audrey meets Joe, who is definitely someone that could be bad news for Audrey, and she knows it, but takes the chance. This author has a great imagination. It is a very well-written plot, and I enjoyed it. It’s one of those embraceable stories. It’s definitely un-put-downable! This is a magnificent story that kept this reader turning the pages. This title is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. I was picturing a once-elegant woman, who let life hit her hard, and she was just someone who needed something. Masterfully written! This author not only tells the story but shows it with words as well. Audrey is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more books by this author. Audrey is definitely more than your typical romance!

[Ailyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joe gets a break in his screenwriting dream when he meets Audrey, the girl who will later give him the break that he so desperately needs. Taking a risk and a trip to France, Joe embarks on a journey. He thinks it is romance, but it is more of self- discovery. Will Joe get it all?

You can take a journey around France with Joe and wonder if the French are as crass as the book depicts. I think that part of the book reflects on the author's experience with his book becoming a motion picture, because the process sounds pretty painful. Overall, Audrey is a reminder that hope is always around the corner, and hold on to your good friends. I enjoy the banter between Joe and Colm, and the chemistry between him and the girl of his dreams.

But like all dreams, Joe has to wake up and smell the plumbing. 

Verdict

It is a sweet book, for sure. I love the romance bubble, as well as Joe's bubble popping back to reality. There is a pretty cool Easter egg to commemorate Sean- Paul's achievement with Old Man and the Princess, and many beautiful picturesque scenes of France. Not sure about the liver for breakfast though.  

[mai !! · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was so charming, I would definitely recommend this!

Rating: 3/5

Synopsis:

From the author of My Sister and I and The Old Man and The Princess (recently optioned to be a motion picture) – comes a new, suspenseful romantic tale that will knock you off your feet. A story that has a reminiscence of ‘500 days of Summer’ and ‘Midnight in Paris’ with a fair dollop of ‘The Graduate’ thrown in. And of course Audrey, a delightful, older female protagonist who takes the young and wayward ex-con Joe under her wing.

Just out of prison Joe, a young builder from Edinburgh who writes movie scripts in his spare time, randomly meets Audrey, a washed-up, hard-drinking, chain-smoking, middle-aged French film actress at his local film festival. After hitting it off and spending one crazy, magical night together, Audrey sees some potential in Joe and his writing and tries to help him win back his estranged daughter by getting his first screenplay made into a movie in Paris. And so, the adventure of a lifetime begins…

Thank you NetGalley for giving me an ARC!!

[Michelle (Chelle's Book Ramblings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a surprising reading year For me... Many of My 5 star-reads have been those I Did not see coming, and I'm okay with that.
This book was elegant, mature...Romance in Its every shape or form. I Loved It. Joe and Audrey as characters are relatable.. They Feel so real. Their personalities, Joe as The introverted man looking For redemption and Audrey as The bubbly extrovert who infects his world in The best way possible.
And their relationship and Its development Is amazingly well written.. It's something that any of us could experience (or might Wish to) It helps them evolve, not as characters But as real people...It Is that Good.
The book feels like a Movie, The setting, The interaction, It's like a Classic Casablanca.. At least It's The feeling I'm left with, Even The ending..not quite your typical happy Ever after But a more reallistic and hopeful one works in that regard.
This was My first read by this Author and It certainly won't be My last.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Older woman and younger man connect at a movie screening. Audrey is a supporting actress in the film ex-con Joe goes to. He’s a big fan of the beautiful actress and takes a chance to meet her. Audrey is gracious to Joe and one thing leads to another and they embark on a fling. She insists it’s just one night but…she sees his manuscript and things escalated quickly from there. Joe gets a big break when Audrey shares his manuscript and mentors him. Joe blossoms in Paris under Audrey’s influence and joie de vivre attitude. Angsty, heartwarming story and I just loved the ending.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was absolutely intrigued by the blurb, and I definitely wasn't disappointed once I dove in. Suspense, drama, romance - this book has it all. Unlike many romances you aren't sure from the outset that there will be a HEA which was a refreshing change. I loved watching Joe and Audrey's adventures unfold. It was almost like stepping into a movie. The plot moves along smoothly, and before you know it, you're deep into the book and hours have passed. A magnificent, unique read that suspense and romance readers alike can enjoy.

[Mcf1nder_sk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was recently notified by my friend @seanpaulthomasauthor that his latest work, Audrey, is now available for purchase. I've read many of his works, which range from extreme horror (My Sister and I) to the heartbreak of lost love (The Comedian). Audrey is a lovely tale of redemption, with a cat of characters that make this book one you just can can't put down until the end. Whichever genre Sean Paul decides to write in, he always manages to come up with a winner.

[Destinee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audrey is my first novel by Sean Paul-Thomas and after this fantastic read it will not be my last one. If you are looking for a well written romance novel filled with relatable, mature characters, Audrey is for you. The use of a mature female lead was a refreshing take that allowed for deeper plotlines that would have been less intense or simply less believable from a 20 year old heroine. Read it you will not regret it. That's it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Neil Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story of a working-class younger man who meets an older successful woman. A kind of holiday romance ensures amongst the film industry of Paris but all is not what it seems beneath the surface. Great depth to both characters. Brilliant humour. Terrific ending. Have your hankies ready.

[Abigail Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5 stars)