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The Invite
The invites went out weeks ago, and tonight, at a lavish manor house surrounded by friends and family, Kaitlin couldn’t be happier. But as the champagne corks pop, her dream party becomes her worst nightmare…
Staring at the stunning diamond solitaire on her finger, Kaitlin is finally getting the chance to introduce her best friend Zoe to her perfect fiancé. She hasn’t known Greg long, but he looks after her, and he loves playing dad to her young daughter. How could she say no when he’s already planned their elopement?
As guests arrive, why is Greg acting so shifty? And is that a flicker of recognition on Zoe’s face? And why does she look terrified every time her phone rings?
Kaitlin watches as Zoe knocks back her white wine and makes a beeline for Greg. After a heated conversation, Zoe stumbles towards the door and flees the party without looking back.
Days later, the police knock at Kaitlin’s door – Zoe is missing.
Kaitlin wants to believe her loving fiancé is not to blame, but she knows what she saw the night of the party. And when he lies to the police, can she trust the man she’s marrying? Could Kaitlin and her precious daughter’s life now be in danger too?
Staring at the stunning diamond solitaire on her finger, Kaitlin is finally getting the chance to introduce her best friend Zoe to her perfect fiancé. She hasn’t known Greg long, but he looks after her, and he loves playing dad to her young daughter. How could she say no when he’s already planned their elopement?
As guests arrive, why is Greg acting so shifty? And is that a flicker of recognition on Zoe’s face? And why does she look terrified every time her phone rings?
Kaitlin watches as Zoe knocks back her white wine and makes a beeline for Greg. After a heated conversation, Zoe stumbles towards the door and flees the party without looking back.
Days later, the police knock at Kaitlin’s door – Zoe is missing.
Kaitlin wants to believe her loving fiancé is not to blame, but she knows what she saw the night of the party. And when he lies to the police, can she trust the man she’s marrying? Could Kaitlin and her precious daughter’s life now be in danger too?
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2022
437 people are currently reading
852 people want to read
About the author
Sheryl Browne
38 books884 followersHi, I’m Sheryl Browne writing psychological thriller. My latest psychological thriller MY LOVING HUSBAND is published by fabulous BOOKOUTURE. A member of the Crime Writers’ Association and the Romantic Novelists’ Association, I have several books published and two short stories in Birmingham City University anthologies, where I completed my MA in Creative Writing. I live in Worcestershire with my partner and a variety of disabled dogs. According to readers of my thrillers, I also apparently make an excellent psychopath. ;) Follow my @Bookouture Mailing List and grab a FREE short: https://t.co/bIigwwALCs
𝘼 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚. 𝘼 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝘼 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡…
MY LOVING HUSBAND – Can I really trust the man I married?
Do I Really Know You? – She's the friend you trust with your life. But can she trust you with hers?
The Invite – Kaitlin has been looking forward to her engagement party for weeks, but as the champagne corks pop, her dream party soon becomes her worst nightmare…
The Liar's Child – I’ll do anything to protect my daughter…
My Husband's Girlfriend – She told my little boy a secret and now he’s gone…
The Second Wife – SHE MADE HER BED. YOU'LL LIE IN IT.
The Affair – You trusted her. You shouldn't have.
The Babysitter – She's perfect. Too Perfect.
After She's Gone – He's killed your child and kidnapped your wife. What would YOU do?
Sins of the Father - What if you’d been accused of one of the worst crimes imaginable?
Deadly Intent - Tormented to the edge of sanity …
The Rest of My Life - “You can’t run away from commitment forever … “ Two damaged hearts, a sizzling sexual connection. Can love find a way to bring Adam and Sienna together?
Learning to Love – Sometimes help comes from the most unlikely places …
Somebody to Love – Sigh with contentment, scream with frustration. At times you will weep.
Warrant for Love - Blackmail, lies, adultery, heartache. Three love stories wrapped up in one sexiliciously hilarious package.
A Little Bit of Madness – White Knight in Blue rescues The Harbour Rest Home.
𝘼 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚. 𝘼 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝘼 𝙨𝙚𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡…
MY LOVING HUSBAND – Can I really trust the man I married?
Do I Really Know You? – She's the friend you trust with your life. But can she trust you with hers?
The Invite – Kaitlin has been looking forward to her engagement party for weeks, but as the champagne corks pop, her dream party soon becomes her worst nightmare…
The Liar's Child – I’ll do anything to protect my daughter…
My Husband's Girlfriend – She told my little boy a secret and now he’s gone…
The Second Wife – SHE MADE HER BED. YOU'LL LIE IN IT.
The Affair – You trusted her. You shouldn't have.
The Babysitter – She's perfect. Too Perfect.
After She's Gone – He's killed your child and kidnapped your wife. What would YOU do?
Sins of the Father - What if you’d been accused of one of the worst crimes imaginable?
Deadly Intent - Tormented to the edge of sanity …
The Rest of My Life - “You can’t run away from commitment forever … “ Two damaged hearts, a sizzling sexual connection. Can love find a way to bring Adam and Sienna together?
Learning to Love – Sometimes help comes from the most unlikely places …
Somebody to Love – Sigh with contentment, scream with frustration. At times you will weep.
Warrant for Love - Blackmail, lies, adultery, heartache. Three love stories wrapped up in one sexiliciously hilarious package.
A Little Bit of Madness – White Knight in Blue rescues The Harbour Rest Home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
February 23, 2022
3.5 stars
The Invites have gone out! Kaitlin is excited to celebrate with her friends at a lavish manor! She is excited to introduce her best friend, Zoe to her fiancé, Greg. She knows they will hit it off, won't they? As the quests arrive, Greg begins to act strangely, and Zoe doesn't seem impressed with him. There is a strange energy between the two. How quickly he her dream party turned into a nightmare!
Things go from bad to worse when Kaitlin learns that Zoe has gone missing. Greg can't be to blame, can he? Sure, he and Zoe had a tense exchange and Zoe took off. That doesn't mean anything, does it? Plus, Greg has lied to the police. Why?
This is a tense book, and, like Kaitlin, I didn't know who to trust. As the tension and underlying feeling of unease mounts, Kaitlin begins to wonder if she and her daughter are in danger. Another book that asks the question, how well do you know those in your life?
This book had some twists and turns that it kept me on my toes! Will you figure it out? Will you have your suspicions? Will you want to talk some sense into Kaitlin as she the queen of no common sense, inability to make good judgements, and not being able to see the forest for the trees!
This proved to be a quick, fast paced read which didn't disappoint. Pure escapism reading!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
#TheInvite #NetGalley #Bookouture
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
The Invites have gone out! Kaitlin is excited to celebrate with her friends at a lavish manor! She is excited to introduce her best friend, Zoe to her fiancé, Greg. She knows they will hit it off, won't they? As the quests arrive, Greg begins to act strangely, and Zoe doesn't seem impressed with him. There is a strange energy between the two. How quickly he her dream party turned into a nightmare!
Things go from bad to worse when Kaitlin learns that Zoe has gone missing. Greg can't be to blame, can he? Sure, he and Zoe had a tense exchange and Zoe took off. That doesn't mean anything, does it? Plus, Greg has lied to the police. Why?
This is a tense book, and, like Kaitlin, I didn't know who to trust. As the tension and underlying feeling of unease mounts, Kaitlin begins to wonder if she and her daughter are in danger. Another book that asks the question, how well do you know those in your life?
This book had some twists and turns that it kept me on my toes! Will you figure it out? Will you have your suspicions? Will you want to talk some sense into Kaitlin as she the queen of no common sense, inability to make good judgements, and not being able to see the forest for the trees!
This proved to be a quick, fast paced read which didn't disappoint. Pure escapism reading!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
#TheInvite #NetGalley #Bookouture
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
February 19, 2022
Kaitlin thinks she's met the man of her dreams. Greg is good-looking, caring, supportive, and most importantly, loves her five-year-old daughter like she's his own. He's even organized a lavish birthday party for her. Kaitlin couldn't be more thrilled because her best friend Zoe is also returning to the UK for her birthday and she is eager to finally introduce the two to each other. But when the big moment finally arrives, Zoe instantly takes a dislike to Greg and warns Kaitlin that something is seriously off about him. The two women get into a heated argument and Zoe storms off - not to be seen again. With her best friend missing and the police convinced that Greg is responsible, Kaitlin's life quickly starts to unravel.
A well-paced thriller with themes of love, obsession, and jealousy. There is a lot going on in this book, with multiple perspectives and subplots. Normally, I'm not the biggest fan of too many POV's but I thought it worked really well here. It kept you guessing as to how everything was connected and what role our characters had in the events taking place in the story. As for the twist, it didn't come as a shock to me. There was a red herring dropped about that particular character in the beginning and it had stuck with me so I wasn't surprised by the reveal.
Overall, I thought this was a solid thriller. Not very memorable if I'm being honest but I enjoyed it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A well-paced thriller with themes of love, obsession, and jealousy. There is a lot going on in this book, with multiple perspectives and subplots. Normally, I'm not the biggest fan of too many POV's but I thought it worked really well here. It kept you guessing as to how everything was connected and what role our characters had in the events taking place in the story. As for the twist, it didn't come as a shock to me. There was a red herring dropped about that particular character in the beginning and it had stuck with me so I wasn't surprised by the reveal.
Overall, I thought this was a solid thriller. Not very memorable if I'm being honest but I enjoyed it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2022
This is the 10th book I have read and reviewed by this author and every book is always different ie the focus of the story and the lesson it is telling, this one is on ‘betrayal, jealousy and not taking people at their word’ and the consequences of these things!
Now I have to say there is a lot of characters in the book and a lot of sub plots and at times it did take me a minute to keep in check who was who and why was they acting like this and what decade where we in, once had done this was back on track
The book started brilliantly, it had me tense and on edge right from the beginning as 2 old friends reunite and one thinks she recognises the others new fiance, great start to a book and sometimes its then hard to keep that initial thrill and excitement going nevertheless as always a good story throughout
I love this authors work and will look forward to Book 11
8/10
4 Stars
Now I have to say there is a lot of characters in the book and a lot of sub plots and at times it did take me a minute to keep in check who was who and why was they acting like this and what decade where we in, once had done this was back on track
The book started brilliantly, it had me tense and on edge right from the beginning as 2 old friends reunite and one thinks she recognises the others new fiance, great start to a book and sometimes its then hard to keep that initial thrill and excitement going nevertheless as always a good story throughout
I love this authors work and will look forward to Book 11
8/10
4 Stars
January 10, 2022
“Betrayal and unrequited love can lead people to all sorts of madness”.
This is the running theme of this book. There were many characters and multiple storylines, so I found myself going back to at times to remember who the characters were. One of the twists got me good, the others eh. It was all around an ok read. Good one to pass the time.
Newly engaged Kaitlin is thrilled that it is finally the night of her party. Although Kaitlin and her fiancé Greg moved quickly with their relationship, she’s confident that he is the one. They agreed to elope. She cannot wait to introduce her new fiancé to her lifelong bestie Zoe.
Things get weird when Zoe and Greg finally meet. Do they already know each other? Zoe starts downing alcohol, and after an unpleasant conversation between herself and Kaitlin, Zoe storms off.
Days go by and Kaitlin receives a surprise knock on her door; Zoe is missing.
What transpires next is a series of emotionally charged events. Do you ever really know someone? Can you trust another person completely?
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is the running theme of this book. There were many characters and multiple storylines, so I found myself going back to at times to remember who the characters were. One of the twists got me good, the others eh. It was all around an ok read. Good one to pass the time.
Newly engaged Kaitlin is thrilled that it is finally the night of her party. Although Kaitlin and her fiancé Greg moved quickly with their relationship, she’s confident that he is the one. They agreed to elope. She cannot wait to introduce her new fiancé to her lifelong bestie Zoe.
Things get weird when Zoe and Greg finally meet. Do they already know each other? Zoe starts downing alcohol, and after an unpleasant conversation between herself and Kaitlin, Zoe storms off.
Days go by and Kaitlin receives a surprise knock on her door; Zoe is missing.
What transpires next is a series of emotionally charged events. Do you ever really know someone? Can you trust another person completely?
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 2, 2022
The invites went out weeks ago, and tonight, at a lavish manor house surrounded by friends and family, Kaitlin couldn't be more happier. But as the champagne corks pop, her dream party becomes her worst nightmare. Staring at the stunning diamond solitaire on her finger, Kaitlin is finally getting the chance to introduce her best friend Zoe to her perfect fiance. She hasn't known Greg long, but he looks after her, and he loves playing Dad to her young daughter. As guests arrive, why is Greg acting to shifty? And is that a flicker of recognition on Zoe's face? And why does she look terrified every time her phone rings?
The pace is fast in this action packed read. It covers: lies, jealousy, deception and broken promises. The story is multi-layered and told from multiple perspectives. The suspense builds throughout, the twists kept coming. I changed my mind several times on who was behind the attacks. I was hooked from the beginning and I didn't want to put my kindle down until I had finished. This is another well written book with relatable characters.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #SherylBrowne for my ARC of #TheInvite in exchange for an honest review.
The pace is fast in this action packed read. It covers: lies, jealousy, deception and broken promises. The story is multi-layered and told from multiple perspectives. The suspense builds throughout, the twists kept coming. I changed my mind several times on who was behind the attacks. I was hooked from the beginning and I didn't want to put my kindle down until I had finished. This is another well written book with relatable characters.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #SherylBrowne for my ARC of #TheInvite in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2022
This is fast-paced read that was gripping, entertaining and just one of those guilty pleasures (think trashy Lifetime Original Movie). Once I started reading, I got sucked in, couldn't stop and finished it in a day.
The story is told from multiple perspectives, which helped create layers to the story.
The story itself....Was it convoluted? Yes. Did it have twists you could predict a mile off? Yes. Was it a fun and engaging journey? Yes. Would I recommend this book? Absolutely! A big reason I recommend this book is because it went in a completely different direction than I was expecting. Honestly, reading the synopsis made me think it was going to be a book full of clichés.....the old (and tired) trope of husband/best friend have an affair and all is lost. That plot is done to death and I'm bored, but thankfully this book (while sometimes OTT) was completely original and fresh.
There aren't many likable characters in this story, but many of them are sympathetic characters.
That being said, I couldn't stand the MC Kaitlin. Her naivety was completely off the charts and her judge of character was nonexistent. I was frustrated with her the entire time I was reading this.
One other negative would be the ending. It was super rushed with just a few paragraphs at the end to sum up all the motives, which are kind of murky and not well fleshed out. I was still left confused with a feeling of incompleteness, and the Epilogue didn't do a good job of explaining the events that took place or their aftermath.
Overall, this was a quick read. It was fun. And I recommend if you're looking for something to pass the time.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told from multiple perspectives, which helped create layers to the story.
The story itself....Was it convoluted? Yes. Did it have twists you could predict a mile off? Yes. Was it a fun and engaging journey? Yes. Would I recommend this book? Absolutely! A big reason I recommend this book is because it went in a completely different direction than I was expecting. Honestly, reading the synopsis made me think it was going to be a book full of clichés.....the old (and tired) trope of husband/best friend have an affair and all is lost. That plot is done to death and I'm bored, but thankfully this book (while sometimes OTT) was completely original and fresh.
There aren't many likable characters in this story, but many of them are sympathetic characters.
That being said, I couldn't stand the MC Kaitlin. Her naivety was completely off the charts and her judge of character was nonexistent. I was frustrated with her the entire time I was reading this.
One other negative would be the ending. It was super rushed with just a few paragraphs at the end to sum up all the motives, which are kind of murky and not well fleshed out. I was still left confused with a feeling of incompleteness, and the Epilogue didn't do a good job of explaining the events that took place or their aftermath.
Overall, this was a quick read. It was fun. And I recommend if you're looking for something to pass the time.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2022
So, straight up. This one suffers from Stupid Main Character Syndrome.
It’s one of those brainless but entertaining popcorn reads – you know…the one where you’re shouting at the main character because they keep making boneheaded decisions.
The plot gets wildly complex, but it is fun.
This one is empty calories. You’ll get a kick out it while reading it, but you’ll forget it soon after.
*ARC via Publisher
It’s one of those brainless but entertaining popcorn reads – you know…the one where you’re shouting at the main character because they keep making boneheaded decisions.
The plot gets wildly complex, but it is fun.
This one is empty calories. You’ll get a kick out it while reading it, but you’ll forget it soon after.
*ARC via Publisher
February 18, 2022
Kaitlin cannot wait for the two loves of her life to meet - her fiancé Greg and her best friend Zoe. Just engaged one day it is now her birthday pary and Zoe is in town, visiting from Portugal. In fact, Greg wants to plan a destination wedding in Portugal. However, as soon as Zoe hears Kaitlyn's news, her demeanor changes. Zoe takes one look at Greg and distrusts him on sight.
Kaitlyn had a rough marriage to Sean, and they have a five-year-old daughter. After everything Kaitlyn experienced, Zoe feels she is rushing things with Greg. In fact, Kaitlyn and Zoe have a screaming match and Zoe rushes off - never to be seen again. Zoe has her own baggage, and whether or not that comes into play with regard to her sudden disappearance remains to be seen.
More than that, Greg is the perfect guy - except no one is perfect, and stressed out by Zoe's disappearance, Kaitlyn slowly removes the rose-colored glasses she had been wearing around him. As it turns out that Greg had been hiding things, he indeed becomes a suspect in Zoe's disappearance. More than that, Zoe had experienced a recent breakup, so there is yet another suspect as to her disappearance.
Twists. Turns. Surprises. Shocks. It is all here in this thrilling book by Sheryl Browne. This book was a page-turner, an impossible to put down one-sitting read! Kudos to Ms. Browne for writing compelling, intriguing and drama-filled stories. The ending was a true shocker, thus earning this book a well-deserved five stars.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Kaitlyn had a rough marriage to Sean, and they have a five-year-old daughter. After everything Kaitlyn experienced, Zoe feels she is rushing things with Greg. In fact, Kaitlyn and Zoe have a screaming match and Zoe rushes off - never to be seen again. Zoe has her own baggage, and whether or not that comes into play with regard to her sudden disappearance remains to be seen.
More than that, Greg is the perfect guy - except no one is perfect, and stressed out by Zoe's disappearance, Kaitlyn slowly removes the rose-colored glasses she had been wearing around him. As it turns out that Greg had been hiding things, he indeed becomes a suspect in Zoe's disappearance. More than that, Zoe had experienced a recent breakup, so there is yet another suspect as to her disappearance.
Twists. Turns. Surprises. Shocks. It is all here in this thrilling book by Sheryl Browne. This book was a page-turner, an impossible to put down one-sitting read! Kudos to Ms. Browne for writing compelling, intriguing and drama-filled stories. The ending was a true shocker, thus earning this book a well-deserved five stars.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
February 26, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Invite' by Sheryl Browne.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Sheryl Browne, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 22nd February 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'My Husbands Girlfriend' and 'The Liar's Child' which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'The Invite is an absolutely unmissable psychological thriller, perfect for fans of The Girl on the Train, Gone Girl and The Wife. You’ll be hooked from the first page! .' I am a huge fan of 'Gone Girl' and 'The Wife' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Sheryl and if this is half as good as 'My Husband's Girlfriend' and 'The Liar's Child' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists a prologue, 63 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Worcestershire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Kaitlin Chalmer, Zoe Weller, Sally, Adam Diaz, Kyle Roberts, Richard, Daniel and Jessica. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The Invite' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Sheryl discusses/includes depression and abuse.
Wow!!! What did I just read!!! What a twist and a half fairplay, I most certainly was NOT expecting that!!! Anyway, we shall return to that!!! This book is extremely well written and completely drew me in from start to end. The synopsis, title and cover worked perfectly with the storyline.
The storyline was extremely compelling and I was completely addicted from beginning to end. I started it this morning and finished it in a day!! It was filled with mysteries, twists and surprises and had me completely absorbed throughout. It was filled with suspense, family, lies, romance, twists, heartbreak, deceit and shocks!! It had me on tenterhooks on the edge of my seat and biting my nails to get to the truth. I absolutely loved how it completely shocked me at the end!! There's not much worse in a book than when you have already figured out what is going on by 50%!! I love that the fact that Sheryl has done her research shined through. One of my pet hates is when an authour picks a subject to include in their novel but hasn't done any research, it litters the books with mistakes and errors and it can spoil a storyline. This book is not only an epic psychological thriller filled with twists and turns that I would have never expected all the way to the end but it is also quite sad and heartbreaking when it comes to the reasons certain people were the way they were. I would love to see this book turned into what would promise to be a massive hit movie!!
The characters were vivid, realistic, unique and very compelling. Throughout the book I liked, disliked and questioned most of the main characters unsure of who was to blame and who was doing what wrong and right. After I had done all that I was still wrong!!! Throughout the book I flicked from feeling sorry for either Greg, Jessica, Zoe or even Daniel and then by the next chapter I thought that same character seriously needed help or were just horrific. I became suspect of them all including Adam and Sally. I felt the book ended perfectly the way it did and everything was explained with no loose ends, another pet hate of mine. I had the most sympathy for a certain character and although I won't say who as I don't want to spoil it for future readers it really does go to show how your past can affect your future. I also had sympathy for Kaitlin who just wanted to find happiness but was getting ambushed every direction she faced and feeling she was never going to be happy. I think this is true of many people at certain points of their lives and Sheryl portrays the feelings perfectky. Well done Sheryl!!! The perfect eclectic mix of strong and realistic characters came together to make this book a real page turner!!!
This book would make a truly captivating movie which I would love to see and I am definitely looking forward to reading more books by Sheryl. Congratulations Sheryl on yet another amazing read!!! Here's to your next success 🥂
This is exactly why Sheryl is one of my favourite authors. I love every book yet she still manages to make them better and better which is not an easy feat!!
Overall a page turning, gripping and addictive psychological thriller that will shock you at times and break your heart on others!!
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Crime Fiction, Noir Fiction, Crime Fiction and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'Gone Girl' , Shalini Boland, 'The Girl On The Train', 'The Wife', Lisa Jewell and anyone looking for an explosive novel with a bombshell twist!!!
331 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Review for 'The Invite' by Sheryl Browne.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Sheryl Browne, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 22nd February 2022.
This is the third book I have read by this author. I have previously read 'My Husbands Girlfriend' and 'The Liar's Child' which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'The Invite is an absolutely unmissable psychological thriller, perfect for fans of The Girl on the Train, Gone Girl and The Wife. You’ll be hooked from the first page! .' I am a huge fan of 'Gone Girl' and 'The Wife' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Sheryl and if this is half as good as 'My Husband's Girlfriend' and 'The Liar's Child' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists a prologue, 63 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Worcestershire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonists being Kaitlin Chalmer, Zoe Weller, Sally, Adam Diaz, Kyle Roberts, Richard, Daniel and Jessica. The benefits of third person perspective with multiple protagonists are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
'The Invite' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Sheryl discusses/includes depression and abuse.
Wow!!! What did I just read!!! What a twist and a half fairplay, I most certainly was NOT expecting that!!! Anyway, we shall return to that!!! This book is extremely well written and completely drew me in from start to end. The synopsis, title and cover worked perfectly with the storyline.
The storyline was extremely compelling and I was completely addicted from beginning to end. I started it this morning and finished it in a day!! It was filled with mysteries, twists and surprises and had me completely absorbed throughout. It was filled with suspense, family, lies, romance, twists, heartbreak, deceit and shocks!! It had me on tenterhooks on the edge of my seat and biting my nails to get to the truth. I absolutely loved how it completely shocked me at the end!! There's not much worse in a book than when you have already figured out what is going on by 50%!! I love that the fact that Sheryl has done her research shined through. One of my pet hates is when an authour picks a subject to include in their novel but hasn't done any research, it litters the books with mistakes and errors and it can spoil a storyline. This book is not only an epic psychological thriller filled with twists and turns that I would have never expected all the way to the end but it is also quite sad and heartbreaking when it comes to the reasons certain people were the way they were. I would love to see this book turned into what would promise to be a massive hit movie!!
The characters were vivid, realistic, unique and very compelling. Throughout the book I liked, disliked and questioned most of the main characters unsure of who was to blame and who was doing what wrong and right. After I had done all that I was still wrong!!! Throughout the book I flicked from feeling sorry for either Greg, Jessica, Zoe or even Daniel and then by the next chapter I thought that same character seriously needed help or were just horrific. I became suspect of them all including Adam and Sally. I felt the book ended perfectly the way it did and everything was explained with no loose ends, another pet hate of mine. I had the most sympathy for a certain character and although I won't say who as I don't want to spoil it for future readers it really does go to show how your past can affect your future. I also had sympathy for Kaitlin who just wanted to find happiness but was getting ambushed every direction she faced and feeling she was never going to be happy. I think this is true of many people at certain points of their lives and Sheryl portrays the feelings perfectky. Well done Sheryl!!! The perfect eclectic mix of strong and realistic characters came together to make this book a real page turner!!!
This book would make a truly captivating movie which I would love to see and I am definitely looking forward to reading more books by Sheryl. Congratulations Sheryl on yet another amazing read!!! Here's to your next success 🥂
This is exactly why Sheryl is one of my favourite authors. I love every book yet she still manages to make them better and better which is not an easy feat!!
Overall a page turning, gripping and addictive psychological thriller that will shock you at times and break your heart on others!!
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Crime Fiction, Noir Fiction, Crime Fiction and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'Gone Girl' , Shalini Boland, 'The Girl On The Train', 'The Wife', Lisa Jewell and anyone looking for an explosive novel with a bombshell twist!!!
331 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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January 28, 2022
I saw a post on Twitter about this book and rushed to NetGalley to request a copy. I have enjoyed all the Bookouture books I have had the pleasure of reading, so I had no doubt this book would be a great read. The Invite turned out to be a gripping, page-turner filled with twists you will not see coming. When reaching for this title, expect the unexpected. It is a fast-paced story about a woman who manages to attract all the wrong people into her world. When her best friend goes missing, she does not know who she can trust as she struggles to keep her young daughter safe.
This book was my introduction to Sheryl Browne’s work. I am hooked. I cannot wait to get my hands on more of her books. She shares a twisty tale that draws you into a world full of damaged people and when you are convinced you know where she is going, she drops another surprise on you. I raced through this book and simply could not get to the end fast enough.
After escaping an abusive marriage, Kaitlyn has finally turned her life around. She is happy and engaged to the perfect man. She cannot wait to introduce him to her best friend, Zoe. When Zoe arrives at Kaitlyn’s lavish birthday party, organised by Greg, Kaitlyn notices something a little off about Zoe’s reaction.
When Zoe pulls Kaitlyn aside and tells her that she is making a mistake marrying Greg so quickly Kaitlyn is furious. How can Zoe judge a man she does not know? After a horrible argument between the two women, Zoe rushes off and Kaitlyn asks Greg to go after her.
But when Zoe appears to be missing and Greg is acting sketchy, even lying to the police, Kaitlyn is reminded of Zoe’s words and she starts to wonder if she can trust Greg. When Greg runs from the police, Kaitlyn fears for her and Ruby’s safety.
I was quickly drawn into this story and just loved all the damaged people and how everyone’s secrets were slowly revealed. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the author delivered a new surprise. This story sure kept me on my toes.
The characters in this book will leave you amazed as the acts of jealousy lead to one shock after the other. Kaitlin has had her confidence rocked by an abusive husband, yet she found the strength to leave him. All Kaitlin wants is to be loved and for her daughter to have a safe happy childhood. This woman managed to gain my respect with her love and devotion to her child. She did everything she could to protect her little girl and keep her away from all the horrible things that were happening. Even when she doubted Greg, she managed to shield Ruby from her feelings. Ruby was simply the most adorable little girl. The author did a wonderful job showing this child’s innocence. I simply loved this character.
I found I doubted Zoe, she appeared just a little too wrapped up in her own issues for me to trust her intentions. She was another damaged character who was drawn to Kaitlin and maybe just a little too clingy.
As for Greg, the man was just too perfect and from the start, I had the feeling something was not right with him. However, I could never have predicted where his story was going. The author turned Greg’s story into one surprise after the next. I loved the slow reveal when it come to this guy.
No doubt, I was completely engrossed with this book and could not reach the end fast enough. The Invite easily sailed onto my loved list for 2022.
Psychological thriller fans are in for a treat with this book. It is an engrossing, twisty tale that will keep you glued to the pages. If you haven’t yet, be sure to add this one to your TBR. You will kick yourself for missing out if you don’t.
Visit the blog: https://featzreviews.com
This book was my introduction to Sheryl Browne’s work. I am hooked. I cannot wait to get my hands on more of her books. She shares a twisty tale that draws you into a world full of damaged people and when you are convinced you know where she is going, she drops another surprise on you. I raced through this book and simply could not get to the end fast enough.
After escaping an abusive marriage, Kaitlyn has finally turned her life around. She is happy and engaged to the perfect man. She cannot wait to introduce him to her best friend, Zoe. When Zoe arrives at Kaitlyn’s lavish birthday party, organised by Greg, Kaitlyn notices something a little off about Zoe’s reaction.
When Zoe pulls Kaitlyn aside and tells her that she is making a mistake marrying Greg so quickly Kaitlyn is furious. How can Zoe judge a man she does not know? After a horrible argument between the two women, Zoe rushes off and Kaitlyn asks Greg to go after her.
But when Zoe appears to be missing and Greg is acting sketchy, even lying to the police, Kaitlyn is reminded of Zoe’s words and she starts to wonder if she can trust Greg. When Greg runs from the police, Kaitlyn fears for her and Ruby’s safety.
I was quickly drawn into this story and just loved all the damaged people and how everyone’s secrets were slowly revealed. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the author delivered a new surprise. This story sure kept me on my toes.
The characters in this book will leave you amazed as the acts of jealousy lead to one shock after the other. Kaitlin has had her confidence rocked by an abusive husband, yet she found the strength to leave him. All Kaitlin wants is to be loved and for her daughter to have a safe happy childhood. This woman managed to gain my respect with her love and devotion to her child. She did everything she could to protect her little girl and keep her away from all the horrible things that were happening. Even when she doubted Greg, she managed to shield Ruby from her feelings. Ruby was simply the most adorable little girl. The author did a wonderful job showing this child’s innocence. I simply loved this character.
I found I doubted Zoe, she appeared just a little too wrapped up in her own issues for me to trust her intentions. She was another damaged character who was drawn to Kaitlin and maybe just a little too clingy.
As for Greg, the man was just too perfect and from the start, I had the feeling something was not right with him. However, I could never have predicted where his story was going. The author turned Greg’s story into one surprise after the next. I loved the slow reveal when it come to this guy.
No doubt, I was completely engrossed with this book and could not reach the end fast enough. The Invite easily sailed onto my loved list for 2022.
Psychological thriller fans are in for a treat with this book. It is an engrossing, twisty tale that will keep you glued to the pages. If you haven’t yet, be sure to add this one to your TBR. You will kick yourself for missing out if you don’t.
Visit the blog: https://featzreviews.com
February 15, 2022
So many twists, loved it!
February 4, 2022
Since I received a prerelease copy of this book to read and review, I felt obligated to do both - and it really pains me to say neither was easy. That's truly a shame because there's an intriguing plot here, but it's buried under endlessly repetitive angst, hand-wringing, self-doubting musings coming from the minds and mouths of multiple characters. Around the 30% mark, in fact, I almost decided to call it a day.
But I'm not a quitter, especially when, as I said before, I accepted the offer of this book and thus don't want to abandon it. Besides that, I have no doubt there are readers who love emotionally overwrought heroines like Kaitlin Chalmers, who has found a soon-to-be husband and father for her young daughter Ruby after divorcing the abusive original. As this one begins, the new guy - Greg Walker - has arranged a fancy birthday party for Kaitlin. It's even more special because Kaitlin's best friend in the entire world, Zoe (who "rescued" her from the ne'er-do-well ex) will be coming in from Portugal. Zoe isn't just leaving a job; she's leaving what she believed was a serious relationship that suddenly turned seriously sour.
I don't know why Kaitlin had such bad luck with a man (well, actually I can think of at least one good reason), but her rationalization for Zoe's seems to be that Zoe grew up "in care" - a tidbit readers are reminded of at least half a dozen times in the first half dozen chapters. Problem for me is, I never found out what that means, exactly. The only thing I'm sure of is she didn't live with birth or foster parents - so what's left? A cardboard box under a bridge? Well yeah, I suppose that might leave a few emotional scars.
In any event, Zoe's already sour life puckers up even more the second she arrives at Kaitlin's bash and immediately intuits that by marrying Greg, Kaitlin is making a huge mistake. But since her 5-minute screamfest with Kaitlin doesn't convince her friend to ditch him, Zoe ditches both the party and Kaitlin in a huff. After Kaitlin and Greg mull all the whys, why nots and what ifs, Greg agrees to go look for her and talk his idea of sense into her head.
He comes back empty-handed, though, and (surprise!) Zoe goes missing. Police are called in, and from that point on, the pace begins to kick up several notches. That in turn leads to learning that some people may not be who they claim to be, hinting at possible danger for Kaitlin and Ruby (and giving readers more names to keep straight). It ends in a flurry of action - some of it predictable but entertaining enough to keep me turning the pages. In the end, it's safe to say this one isn't going to appear on my 50 favorites book list, but if you've got a couple of hours to kill on a sunny beach or by a cozy fireplace, it's not a bad choice.
But I'm not a quitter, especially when, as I said before, I accepted the offer of this book and thus don't want to abandon it. Besides that, I have no doubt there are readers who love emotionally overwrought heroines like Kaitlin Chalmers, who has found a soon-to-be husband and father for her young daughter Ruby after divorcing the abusive original. As this one begins, the new guy - Greg Walker - has arranged a fancy birthday party for Kaitlin. It's even more special because Kaitlin's best friend in the entire world, Zoe (who "rescued" her from the ne'er-do-well ex) will be coming in from Portugal. Zoe isn't just leaving a job; she's leaving what she believed was a serious relationship that suddenly turned seriously sour.
I don't know why Kaitlin had such bad luck with a man (well, actually I can think of at least one good reason), but her rationalization for Zoe's seems to be that Zoe grew up "in care" - a tidbit readers are reminded of at least half a dozen times in the first half dozen chapters. Problem for me is, I never found out what that means, exactly. The only thing I'm sure of is she didn't live with birth or foster parents - so what's left? A cardboard box under a bridge? Well yeah, I suppose that might leave a few emotional scars.
In any event, Zoe's already sour life puckers up even more the second she arrives at Kaitlin's bash and immediately intuits that by marrying Greg, Kaitlin is making a huge mistake. But since her 5-minute screamfest with Kaitlin doesn't convince her friend to ditch him, Zoe ditches both the party and Kaitlin in a huff. After Kaitlin and Greg mull all the whys, why nots and what ifs, Greg agrees to go look for her and talk his idea of sense into her head.
He comes back empty-handed, though, and (surprise!) Zoe goes missing. Police are called in, and from that point on, the pace begins to kick up several notches. That in turn leads to learning that some people may not be who they claim to be, hinting at possible danger for Kaitlin and Ruby (and giving readers more names to keep straight). It ends in a flurry of action - some of it predictable but entertaining enough to keep me turning the pages. In the end, it's safe to say this one isn't going to appear on my 50 favorites book list, but if you've got a couple of hours to kill on a sunny beach or by a cozy fireplace, it's not a bad choice.
January 27, 2022
“You can’t hide from yourself.”
Kaitlin Chalmers finally has it all - a loving and gorgeous fiance, a huge engagement ring, a location wedding on the horizon and Ruby, her five-year-old daughter. Finally free of a controlling relationship, she’s grown and blossomed after meeting the man of her dreams. She feels worthy of love and respect and fiercely protective of her daughter. Why then does her bestie’s warning continue to consume her thoughts? She’s been down this road before and knows the warning signs. Why then did she have no say in the engagement ring nor in planning the wedding? Is Greg romantically impetuous or controlling?
Greg Walker. Perfection personified or a man with a plan? Is he really too good to be true? How far will he go to protect what is his?
Zoe, the best friend with a terrible track record of picking the wrong kind of man. Good thing being in foster care has given her the tools to fight for herself. When she discovers Kaitlin’s relationship is moving too quickly and considers that something might be ‘off,’ it triggers a rift between her, Kaitlin and Greg. Can she investigate before it’s too late?
Browne knows exactly how to pace a thriller and how to incorporate twists so that readers don’t see them coming! She’s examined the role our internal and external forces play in influencing us and highlights how the formative years often impact us in adulthood. Low self-esteem, she shows us, can be emotionally crippling as is the dangerous tendency to view ourselves through the eyes of others.
I was gifted this advance copy by Sheryl Browne, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Kaitlin Chalmers finally has it all - a loving and gorgeous fiance, a huge engagement ring, a location wedding on the horizon and Ruby, her five-year-old daughter. Finally free of a controlling relationship, she’s grown and blossomed after meeting the man of her dreams. She feels worthy of love and respect and fiercely protective of her daughter. Why then does her bestie’s warning continue to consume her thoughts? She’s been down this road before and knows the warning signs. Why then did she have no say in the engagement ring nor in planning the wedding? Is Greg romantically impetuous or controlling?
Greg Walker. Perfection personified or a man with a plan? Is he really too good to be true? How far will he go to protect what is his?
Zoe, the best friend with a terrible track record of picking the wrong kind of man. Good thing being in foster care has given her the tools to fight for herself. When she discovers Kaitlin’s relationship is moving too quickly and considers that something might be ‘off,’ it triggers a rift between her, Kaitlin and Greg. Can she investigate before it’s too late?
Browne knows exactly how to pace a thriller and how to incorporate twists so that readers don’t see them coming! She’s examined the role our internal and external forces play in influencing us and highlights how the formative years often impact us in adulthood. Low self-esteem, she shows us, can be emotionally crippling as is the dangerous tendency to view ourselves through the eyes of others.
I was gifted this advance copy by Sheryl Browne, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 22, 2022
When your heart has been broken by a man who manipulated you from day one, you promise yourself one thing: never again! You know the signs now and you are convinced alarm bells will go off once you meet someone trying to do this to you again.
Love is blind as the saying goes and it’s true. Once you fall in love it’s seems like your radars shut down and all you feel is the warmth of the love they surround you with.
When someone close to your heart points this out, you fall out. You are convinced that jealousy or whatever ugly feeling wants to keep you from your happy ever after. But was that person so wrong…?
Little by little you have the scales fall from your eyes and doubt creeps in.
There are a lot of characters in this book, but it was never confusing to remember who was who. A lot of characters means you can offer the reader a lot of suspects or people acting weird.
This story is like a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle where a box full of individual pieces (the different actions and clues) come together into a great and very enjoyable result. 5 stars
Thank you, Sheryl Browne and Bookouture
Love is blind as the saying goes and it’s true. Once you fall in love it’s seems like your radars shut down and all you feel is the warmth of the love they surround you with.
When someone close to your heart points this out, you fall out. You are convinced that jealousy or whatever ugly feeling wants to keep you from your happy ever after. But was that person so wrong…?
Little by little you have the scales fall from your eyes and doubt creeps in.
There are a lot of characters in this book, but it was never confusing to remember who was who. A lot of characters means you can offer the reader a lot of suspects or people acting weird.
This story is like a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle where a box full of individual pieces (the different actions and clues) come together into a great and very enjoyable result. 5 stars
Thank you, Sheryl Browne and Bookouture
January 25, 2023
Definitely going to be checking more books out by this author!
June 22, 2025
Kaitlin's first marriage had been pretty disastrous. The only good thing to come out of it was her daughter Ruby. She was swept off her feet when she met Greg. He seemed everything Sean wasn't & he was fantastic with Ruby. He arranged a big party for her birthday & she was delighted when her best friend Zoe says she is coming to it from Portugal where she has been living & working. She can't wait for the two people she loves best to meet. However things do not got to plan, It seems like hate at first sight & when Zoe asks her if she isn't rushing into things they have a row. After Zoe has gulped a quantity of wine she has a heated conversation with Greg storms off. Kaitlin expects to hear from Zoe but the next news of her is when the police arrive & tell her that Zoe is missing. They also want to talk to Greg. In a few short days Kaitlin's life is turned up-side down.
February 22, 2022
This was quite an action packed book that kept my attention. Full of twists and turns I genuinely did not know who to believe or trust. Another great book by Sheryl Browne
January 25, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley and publisher Bookouture for the advance read of this thrilling title in exchange for an honest review.
This is another fantastic read from Sheryl Browne! This was a fast read for me, loved how the story was told from different characters viewpoints building the suspense along the way. I really enjoyed it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is another fantastic read from Sheryl Browne! This was a fast read for me, loved how the story was told from different characters viewpoints building the suspense along the way. I really enjoyed it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 28, 2022
A harsh set of words caused a chasm between two best friends when the one who left the party disappeared. With multiple POVs, I was confused, as I had the cops putting in their two cents and the story of their lives along with the main character, Kaitlin and her fiancé. The plot line was convoluted with many twists adding to the fun. Some I could predict, others made me gasp. Quite slow and the prose was not gripping enough for me, though it improved down the pages.
Many subplots and characters added to the pot and caused me to stew about it.
Maybe it was deliberate to give a feeling of murkiness to the story.
Unlikable characters with a naive main character. What more could I say about it?
The ending was rushed. I wished it too received careful treatment as the rest of the story.
Overall, an entertaining read.
Many subplots and characters added to the pot and caused me to stew about it.
Maybe it was deliberate to give a feeling of murkiness to the story.
Unlikable characters with a naive main character. What more could I say about it?
The ending was rushed. I wished it too received careful treatment as the rest of the story.
Overall, an entertaining read.
February 23, 2022
I devoured this book in one sitting and the drama and twists made me enjoy it a lot. I wanted to know if Kaitlin’s fiancé, Greg was the one who made Zoe disappear and what actually happened.
With each chapter , more scenes and pieces of this puzzle are unveiled and while I personally couldn’t keep any side on these characters, I found them intriguing and their actions on point many times.
Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy
February 23, 2022
This, my seventh novel by the talented author Sheryl Browne was as absorbing and exhilarating as the previous ones, including The Marriage Trap, The New Girlfriend and The Liar's Child. In The Invite, it's Kaitlin and Greg's engagement party and Kaitlin's opportunity for her BFF, Zoe who has been in Portugal to meet Greg. But after some shifty behaviour from Greg and a nervous Zoe, there is some contretemps between Zoe and Kaitlin and Zoe leaves, never to be seen and apparently missing according to the police. Is Greg involved?
With red herrings and curveballs, this well-told, fabulously plotted tale of friendship, love and jealousy is a fantastic read. The author's characterisation is as tremendous as ever. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
With red herrings and curveballs, this well-told, fabulously plotted tale of friendship, love and jealousy is a fantastic read. The author's characterisation is as tremendous as ever. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 25, 2022
The invites went out weeks ago, and tonight, at a lavish manor house surrounded by friends and family, Kaitlin couldn’t be happier. But as the champagne corks pop, her dream party becomes her worst nightmare…
This was an alright read but I have to be honest that it would not have bothered me if I had not finished it, but I did. I wasn't particularly taken by the 'twists' in the story and I found some of the characters rather one dimensional and was not drawn to any of them. The book also moves from person to person and also different time frames which I do not think added to the authenticity of the book. This could be just me in this instance, normally I am a fan of Sheryl Brown's books and have read many which is why I requested this one.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This was an alright read but I have to be honest that it would not have bothered me if I had not finished it, but I did. I wasn't particularly taken by the 'twists' in the story and I found some of the characters rather one dimensional and was not drawn to any of them. The book also moves from person to person and also different time frames which I do not think added to the authenticity of the book. This could be just me in this instance, normally I am a fan of Sheryl Brown's books and have read many which is why I requested this one.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2022
This is a great psychological thriller.
Kaitlin is happy with Greg and is looking forward to her Birthday party that he has arranged for her.
She’s also excited to see her best friend, Zoe who has been working in Portugal.
When Zoe meets Greg she’s suspicious of him and questions Kaitlin’s hastiness in agreeing to marry him.
Zoe goes out for some fresh air but doesn’t return and Kaitlin is sure something has happened to her.
With more than one character hiding things from those around them, this is a gripping thriller which builds to a nail biting conclusion.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Kaitlin is happy with Greg and is looking forward to her Birthday party that he has arranged for her.
She’s also excited to see her best friend, Zoe who has been working in Portugal.
When Zoe meets Greg she’s suspicious of him and questions Kaitlin’s hastiness in agreeing to marry him.
Zoe goes out for some fresh air but doesn’t return and Kaitlin is sure something has happened to her.
With more than one character hiding things from those around them, this is a gripping thriller which builds to a nail biting conclusion.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
February 25, 2022
OMG there is so much going on in this book it’s hard to work out how to even start this review. For such complicated lives though it is easily readable down to the talent of Sheryl. Her characters are always so fully fleshed out, seemingly ordinary on the surface but you know there is always much more to them than meets the eye.
Here we have main characters Kaitlin, her new partner Greg and her best friend Zoe who has just fled from Portugal. This is definitely a case of three’s a crowd and after Zoe relays her suspicions regarding Greg it escalates in to an argument with her storming out of the party and then going missing…
With exes from all directions, overlapping pasts and one of their mutual friends being on the police investigation team, Sheryl has thrown everything into this book including the proverbial kitchen sink. The women are just the right amount of trusting that you can understand their actions without too much eye rolling. The plot has you thinking one thing and then another and is ideal for readers that like playing armchair detective.
But as always with Sheryl’s books the pièce de résistance is that final reveal. It makes me rewind my reading thoughts right back to the start to see what I missed and where I went wrong.
Here we have main characters Kaitlin, her new partner Greg and her best friend Zoe who has just fled from Portugal. This is definitely a case of three’s a crowd and after Zoe relays her suspicions regarding Greg it escalates in to an argument with her storming out of the party and then going missing…
With exes from all directions, overlapping pasts and one of their mutual friends being on the police investigation team, Sheryl has thrown everything into this book including the proverbial kitchen sink. The women are just the right amount of trusting that you can understand their actions without too much eye rolling. The plot has you thinking one thing and then another and is ideal for readers that like playing armchair detective.
But as always with Sheryl’s books the pièce de résistance is that final reveal. It makes me rewind my reading thoughts right back to the start to see what I missed and where I went wrong.
July 24, 2025
i so very much enjoyed this story. but you know its going to be good as author never lets her readers down. i think this one is the most twisty one you think you have got it but no. Kaitlin has such an adorable daughter Ruby but her ex husband was a bully and a controller .Kaitlin has met Greg and fallen in love her ideal man and have moved in together and her best friend Zoe is flying back to England for Kaitlin birthday. Kaitlin hopes her best friend and boyfriend will so like each over .Zoe has her own problems the man she has fallen in love with Daniel is married. the night of the party has arrived but Kaitlin and Zoe fall out she flees the party am not saying no more but so addictive and twisty all not as it seems
February 16, 2022
Everything is perfect.
Kaitlin is standing at her party wearing her perfect new engagement ring, from her perfect new fiancé Greg, who is finally going to meet her best friend after their sudden whirlwind romance. He is everything she could have ever wanted, he's a true gentleman, who dotes on her daughter with her ex and has started to heal the wounds left by that last bitter relationship … he even planned their elopement to surprise her.
So when he starts acting weird around her best friend Zoe, she doesn't think much of it. And when Zoe disapproves right away, she knows her mind will change. Then the two of them seem to get into a tense argument at the party too, and something seems weird. But she loves him, so she's sure there's an explanation.
But then Zoe disappears. She's missing, and the police have no leads and Kaitlin starts to see things that weren't there before. Or maybe they were, and she just couldn't see them through her rose-tinted glasses. Either way, she needs to figure out who the man she's invited into her life is before it's too late.
"unrequited love can lead people to all sorts of madness."
Sheryl Brownes' style of thriller is over-the-top, dramatic and a little bit cheesy - and I always end up devouring it because they are ridiculously fun to read. With the twists and turns of a Hollywood blockbuster, this moved a mile-a-minute, jumping between characters and times to leave the reader just out of the loop enough that they need to get to the next chapter and figure out what on earth is going on.
Kaitlin was rather naïve and made some very stupid choices. She sometimes reminded me of that one girl in the horror movie who runs into the basement to get away from the killer. Honestly, her dating history makes me want to scream at her and snap her out of it, and whilst part of me wants to say she is so vapid it's unrealistic, she really isn't, I've met plenty of people like Kaitlin and while she irritated me, there was still some level of connection there.
This tale weaves together a fast-paced psychological thriller, with dramatic fiction and a cautionary tale about the domino effect that our history can play with our future.
Kaitlin is standing at her party wearing her perfect new engagement ring, from her perfect new fiancé Greg, who is finally going to meet her best friend after their sudden whirlwind romance. He is everything she could have ever wanted, he's a true gentleman, who dotes on her daughter with her ex and has started to heal the wounds left by that last bitter relationship … he even planned their elopement to surprise her.
So when he starts acting weird around her best friend Zoe, she doesn't think much of it. And when Zoe disapproves right away, she knows her mind will change. Then the two of them seem to get into a tense argument at the party too, and something seems weird. But she loves him, so she's sure there's an explanation.
But then Zoe disappears. She's missing, and the police have no leads and Kaitlin starts to see things that weren't there before. Or maybe they were, and she just couldn't see them through her rose-tinted glasses. Either way, she needs to figure out who the man she's invited into her life is before it's too late.
"unrequited love can lead people to all sorts of madness."
Sheryl Brownes' style of thriller is over-the-top, dramatic and a little bit cheesy - and I always end up devouring it because they are ridiculously fun to read. With the twists and turns of a Hollywood blockbuster, this moved a mile-a-minute, jumping between characters and times to leave the reader just out of the loop enough that they need to get to the next chapter and figure out what on earth is going on.
Kaitlin was rather naïve and made some very stupid choices. She sometimes reminded me of that one girl in the horror movie who runs into the basement to get away from the killer. Honestly, her dating history makes me want to scream at her and snap her out of it, and whilst part of me wants to say she is so vapid it's unrealistic, she really isn't, I've met plenty of people like Kaitlin and while she irritated me, there was still some level of connection there.
This tale weaves together a fast-paced psychological thriller, with dramatic fiction and a cautionary tale about the domino effect that our history can play with our future.
February 4, 2022
Kaitlin is thrilled to have her family and friends together to celebrate her birthday. Her loving fiancé, Greg, has planned the whole evening to be perfect. Kaitlin hasn’t seen her best friend, Zoe, since before she and Greg got together. The party will be the perfect time to tell Zoe about their engagement. But Zoe doesn’t seem as happy about the engagement as what Kaitlin was expecting. Zoe and Greg get in a heated argument and Zoe leaves the party early. But when Zoe doesn’t make it back to her apartment and she doesn’t answer her phone, Kaitlin begins to worry that something is very wrong. Could her disappearance have anything to do with the argument between she and Greg? As the investigation continues, secrets begin to unfold. Is Greg really who he says he is? If he is, then why is he lying to the police? Is she and her daughter really safe?
This page-turning thriller is filled with an intricate web of lies and obsession! The whole book was full of twists that made me fly through this book. I loved how the author told the story from the viewpoint of nearly all the characters, so that the reader can get in each one of their heads. Seeing the story from all angles really brought the book together. A great read, for sure!
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Sheryl Browne for this advanced reading copy. This ARC was provided to me in exchange for my honest review.
This page-turning thriller is filled with an intricate web of lies and obsession! The whole book was full of twists that made me fly through this book. I loved how the author told the story from the viewpoint of nearly all the characters, so that the reader can get in each one of their heads. Seeing the story from all angles really brought the book together. A great read, for sure!
A huge thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, and Sheryl Browne for this advanced reading copy. This ARC was provided to me in exchange for my honest review.
February 20, 2022
★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Sheryl Browne's domestic thriller THE INVITE.
Betrayal and unrequited love can lead people to all sorts of madness.
I think this is the 8th book by Sheryl Browne I have read and reviewed and each of them are different and a little bit twisted in their own ways. Betrayal, jealousy, trust and obsession feature heavily this time round and ultimately that with each action comes a reaction...some very serious consequences. Filled with an intricate web of lies and multiple viewpoints throughout gave a multi-layered aspect to this twisted tale.
Kaitlin Chalmers finally has it all. The perfect love; the perfect life; the perfect fiance. After the marriage from hell to her abusive ex-husband Sean, Kaitlin met and fell in love with handsome and charming Greg Walker and after a whirlwind romance the couple moved in together and began planning a wedding. But tonight, it was Kaitlin's birthday party - organised single-handedly by her very attentive fiance.
And tonight after what seems so long, Kait will finally see her best friend Zoe who was flying in from Portugal especially for the event. Kait cannot wait for the two loves of her life to meet...but it doesn't go according to plan. Zoe, it seems, shocked to discover the state of play that has taken place in her absence and, particularly after how things turned out for her with Sean, believe the couple to be moving far too quickly. Added to that, something seems to be off about Greg though she can't put her finger on exactly what. When Zoe tries to warn her friend to be careful, Kaitlin takes offence and the friends argue spectacularly, after which Zoe storms out into the pouring rain.
Worried about her friend, Kaitlin calls her continually but her calls and text messages go unanswered. As the party drew to a close, Kaitlin and Greg make their way to Zoe's apartment in the hope she has arrived home safely...but when they get there, they discover she hasn't been home at all and there appears to be no sign of her. She wouldn't stay out in this filthy weather so where could she be? Remembering her recent break-up with her boyfriend Daniel, Zoe confided in her earlier that evening that Daniel had followed her back to the UK and had been calling and harassing her. Basically stalking her, were her words. Immediately worried, particularly in light of Daniel's sudden return as well as the unanswered messages, Kaitlin decides to call the police.
In the days following, Zoe remains missing despite searching the river path and footbridge and its surrounds. The only item recovered was Zoe's handbag on which appeared to be blood. Then things begin to get muddy regarding Greg but when questioned his answers are vague before cleverly changing the subject. What has Greg got to hide? He went after Zoe that night? Did he catch up with her? Did he see what happened to her? Or did he have something to do with her disappearance? Suddenly, Kaitlin isn't sure what to believe anymore as she begins her own quest for answers...with surprising results.
Meanwhile, readers meet Daniel in flashbacks through Zoe's narrative as well as the surprising discovery that lead to their break-up and her ultimate humiliation seeing her lose her job. With nothing to keep her in Portugal any longer, Zoe returned to the UK. But at what cost? Did her return lead to circumstances from which she could have escaped had she not flounced out of the party so soon? Was she simply in the wrong place at the wrong time? Or was there are more sinister reason behind her disappearance?
Almost every character had a voice in this thrill-ride of a story and the multiple perspectives initially made for a convoluted tale but believe me, it all comes together and makes a whole lot of sense in the end. The short snappy chapters (my favourite kind) keep the pace moving steadily through the alternating viewpoints and multiple characters. As the investigation into Zoe's disappearance continues, the doubts that her friend had raised leads Kait to wonder if there is something in what Zoe alluded to. And soon Kait wonders who can she trust at all.
Sheryl leads us through various avenues whilst handing us multiple suspects, leaving readers scratching their heads as to who is responsible for Zoe's disappearance. Whilst Kaitlin refused to believe her best friend was dead, so too did I, unless there was some tangible evidence that was irrefutable. And yet we are quick to believe there is something shady about Greg. Why is that?
Tensions mount as the story progresses as the reader is hand-fed plenty of suspects but wondering if it's all just a clever plot to hoodwink us. I started my investigation before the story really even began with my first thought that Greg and Daniel were one and the same...though I was barely 10 pages in at that stage, it was a wild stab in the dark that jumped to mind as I was reading. But Sheryl was much cleverer than that...still I was able to iron out some of those twists before their reveals although one did come out of nowhere despite my initial suspicions of a particular character. Overall, I wasn't fooled...I pretty had them worked out.
An enjoyable mystery, THE INVITE is a domestic thriller of unbelievable proportions. I certainly didn't want to put it down until I had all the answers, that's for sure. Something which Sheryl skillfully does with every book. The intensity was such that by the time the tension has built, the book is impossible to put down.
Secrets, lies and obsession make for a delicious domestic thriller and THE INVITE is no different. A cleverly woven tale that will keep you up all night.
I would like to thank #SherylBrowne, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheInvite in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Sheryl Browne's domestic thriller THE INVITE.
Betrayal and unrequited love can lead people to all sorts of madness.
I think this is the 8th book by Sheryl Browne I have read and reviewed and each of them are different and a little bit twisted in their own ways. Betrayal, jealousy, trust and obsession feature heavily this time round and ultimately that with each action comes a reaction...some very serious consequences. Filled with an intricate web of lies and multiple viewpoints throughout gave a multi-layered aspect to this twisted tale.
Kaitlin Chalmers finally has it all. The perfect love; the perfect life; the perfect fiance. After the marriage from hell to her abusive ex-husband Sean, Kaitlin met and fell in love with handsome and charming Greg Walker and after a whirlwind romance the couple moved in together and began planning a wedding. But tonight, it was Kaitlin's birthday party - organised single-handedly by her very attentive fiance.
And tonight after what seems so long, Kait will finally see her best friend Zoe who was flying in from Portugal especially for the event. Kait cannot wait for the two loves of her life to meet...but it doesn't go according to plan. Zoe, it seems, shocked to discover the state of play that has taken place in her absence and, particularly after how things turned out for her with Sean, believe the couple to be moving far too quickly. Added to that, something seems to be off about Greg though she can't put her finger on exactly what. When Zoe tries to warn her friend to be careful, Kaitlin takes offence and the friends argue spectacularly, after which Zoe storms out into the pouring rain.
Worried about her friend, Kaitlin calls her continually but her calls and text messages go unanswered. As the party drew to a close, Kaitlin and Greg make their way to Zoe's apartment in the hope she has arrived home safely...but when they get there, they discover she hasn't been home at all and there appears to be no sign of her. She wouldn't stay out in this filthy weather so where could she be? Remembering her recent break-up with her boyfriend Daniel, Zoe confided in her earlier that evening that Daniel had followed her back to the UK and had been calling and harassing her. Basically stalking her, were her words. Immediately worried, particularly in light of Daniel's sudden return as well as the unanswered messages, Kaitlin decides to call the police.
In the days following, Zoe remains missing despite searching the river path and footbridge and its surrounds. The only item recovered was Zoe's handbag on which appeared to be blood. Then things begin to get muddy regarding Greg but when questioned his answers are vague before cleverly changing the subject. What has Greg got to hide? He went after Zoe that night? Did he catch up with her? Did he see what happened to her? Or did he have something to do with her disappearance? Suddenly, Kaitlin isn't sure what to believe anymore as she begins her own quest for answers...with surprising results.
Meanwhile, readers meet Daniel in flashbacks through Zoe's narrative as well as the surprising discovery that lead to their break-up and her ultimate humiliation seeing her lose her job. With nothing to keep her in Portugal any longer, Zoe returned to the UK. But at what cost? Did her return lead to circumstances from which she could have escaped had she not flounced out of the party so soon? Was she simply in the wrong place at the wrong time? Or was there are more sinister reason behind her disappearance?
Almost every character had a voice in this thrill-ride of a story and the multiple perspectives initially made for a convoluted tale but believe me, it all comes together and makes a whole lot of sense in the end. The short snappy chapters (my favourite kind) keep the pace moving steadily through the alternating viewpoints and multiple characters. As the investigation into Zoe's disappearance continues, the doubts that her friend had raised leads Kait to wonder if there is something in what Zoe alluded to. And soon Kait wonders who can she trust at all.
Sheryl leads us through various avenues whilst handing us multiple suspects, leaving readers scratching their heads as to who is responsible for Zoe's disappearance. Whilst Kaitlin refused to believe her best friend was dead, so too did I, unless there was some tangible evidence that was irrefutable. And yet we are quick to believe there is something shady about Greg. Why is that?
Tensions mount as the story progresses as the reader is hand-fed plenty of suspects but wondering if it's all just a clever plot to hoodwink us. I started my investigation before the story really even began with my first thought that Greg and Daniel were one and the same...though I was barely 10 pages in at that stage, it was a wild stab in the dark that jumped to mind as I was reading. But Sheryl was much cleverer than that...still I was able to iron out some of those twists before their reveals although one did come out of nowhere despite my initial suspicions of a particular character. Overall, I wasn't fooled...I pretty had them worked out.
An enjoyable mystery, THE INVITE is a domestic thriller of unbelievable proportions. I certainly didn't want to put it down until I had all the answers, that's for sure. Something which Sheryl skillfully does with every book. The intensity was such that by the time the tension has built, the book is impossible to put down.
Secrets, lies and obsession make for a delicious domestic thriller and THE INVITE is no different. A cleverly woven tale that will keep you up all night.
I would like to thank #SherylBrowne, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheInvite in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
March 7, 2022
The Invite by Sheryl Browne is one of those psych thrillers where the reader thinks the plot is going in one direction but then it goes in seven others. So, paying attention from the beginning is an absolute must. Blink, and you may totally miss an important event or twist. Honestly, I don’t remember the last time I had to concentrate this much on a psych thriller. Not that I am complaining – I love that it was NOT cookie cutter or the same ol’ thing. The beginning of the book, when the foundation is laid, is a little slow and feels uneven. But as the story progresses, it becomes obvious that those basics are very important. Kaitlin is a sympathetic main character. She is realistic and it is easy to go along with her emotions. Especially as she starts to question who is telling the truth and who she can trust. And that’s all I’m going to say about that. It’s a solid psych thriller and you won’t be disappointed. For more details, please visit Fireflies and Free Kicks. This review was written based on a digital copy of the book from Bookouture.
February 3, 2022
The Invite by Sheryl Browne centers around Kaitlin and Greg who are newly engaged.
Greg has planned a birthday party for Kaitlin and her friend Zoe is coming back from Portugal to attend.
Zoe is shocked to find Kaitlin and Greg engaged and thinks they are moving way to quickly.
Kaitlin and Zoe argue and Zoe storms off into the night. Zoe is now missing.
Where is Zoe? Did something happen to her? Is she just cooling off from her argument with Kaitlin?
The remaining story involves Zoe's disappearance and who is or isn't possibly involved. It is told in multiple points of view at different times, which was confusing sometimes. There are also multiple sub plots going on.
I generally liked this book and the characters, even though I didn't often agree with their actions. I was invested in what happened to Zoe and enjoyed how the sub plots lead to more possible suspects in her disappearance.
Thank you to netgalley and Bookouture for the arc.
Greg has planned a birthday party for Kaitlin and her friend Zoe is coming back from Portugal to attend.
Zoe is shocked to find Kaitlin and Greg engaged and thinks they are moving way to quickly.
Kaitlin and Zoe argue and Zoe storms off into the night. Zoe is now missing.
Where is Zoe? Did something happen to her? Is she just cooling off from her argument with Kaitlin?
The remaining story involves Zoe's disappearance and who is or isn't possibly involved. It is told in multiple points of view at different times, which was confusing sometimes. There are also multiple sub plots going on.
I generally liked this book and the characters, even though I didn't often agree with their actions. I was invested in what happened to Zoe and enjoyed how the sub plots lead to more possible suspects in her disappearance.
Thank you to netgalley and Bookouture for the arc.
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