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The Ex
The love of your life… or your biggest mistake?
It’s hard, meeting your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and accusations, but you try not to show it. You smile politely, even while your heart beats faster.
You watch as he looks down into the stroller, at the beautiful blond-haired blue-eyed baby kicking his little legs in the sunshine, whose innocent smile lights up your world.
You see his face change. You know what he’s thinking.
The next day he calls. His voice is shaking. He wants the truth. Is it his child?
You hesitate, your throat dry, good and bad memories swirling in your mind. You’ve missed him so much… but can you ever trust him again?
After a sleepless night, you arrange to meet, agreeing that the most important thing is doing what’s right for baby Tom.
But months later, when the sirens wail in the night, you have to admit: you never thought either of you would go this far…
It’s hard, meeting your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and accusations, but you try not to show it. You smile politely, even while your heart beats faster.
You watch as he looks down into the stroller, at the beautiful blond-haired blue-eyed baby kicking his little legs in the sunshine, whose innocent smile lights up your world.
You see his face change. You know what he’s thinking.
The next day he calls. His voice is shaking. He wants the truth. Is it his child?
You hesitate, your throat dry, good and bad memories swirling in your mind. You’ve missed him so much… but can you ever trust him again?
After a sleepless night, you arrange to meet, agreeing that the most important thing is doing what’s right for baby Tom.
But months later, when the sirens wail in the night, you have to admit: you never thought either of you would go this far…
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2022
759 people are currently reading
1376 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Lynes
20 books829 followersS. E. Lynes is the #1 Amazon best selling author of THE HOUSEWARMING, and 'intelligent and haunting' psychological thrillers, VALENTINA, MOTHER, THE PACT, THE PROPOSAL, THE WOMEN, THE LIES WE HIDE, CAN YOU SEE HER? and HER SISTER'S SECRET
Formerly a BBC producer, after gaining an MA in Creative Writing, she became a Creative Writing Tutor at Richmond Adult Community College and now combines writing, mentoring and lecturing. She has also published three children's books in Italy.
Formerly a BBC producer, after gaining an MA in Creative Writing, she became a Creative Writing Tutor at Richmond Adult Community College and now combines writing, mentoring and lecturing. She has also published three children's books in Italy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
May 10, 2023
NICHE BANGER ALERT!!!!
Writing: 5/5 | Plot: 5/5 | Ending: 5/5
SYNOPSIS
After a difficult breakup, Naomi and Sam are brought together again to take care of baby Tom. But are things really what they seem??????
MY OPINION
Thank you so much becbingesbook for the awesome rec! Funny story: Bec told me she loved this book but hated the writing. She then sent me an excerpt of S.E. Lynes' latest book The Summer Holiday and I was like... I high-key love it LOL. Idk if I converted Bec, but I'm glad she shared it with me because I would've never read this book otherwise. I tend to stay away from the Kindle Unlimited thrillers but this obvi was a banger... FOR ME.
So let me make this clear: this is a NICHE banger. If you enjoy this unique prose (sentence fragments and groups of 3 abound) then this will be for you. If you enjoy a more straightforward writing style; aka subject + verb + object and think sentence fragments sound like slam poetry, then give it an ole skip. But don't you come back here and tell me the writing was *fart noises* (shoutout to Tabitha) when I warned you!
Lynes put on a masterclass of showing vs telling. Here's an example of how Lynes SHOWED that Sam can't stop thinking about Naomi:
"Put her out of your mind. The garlic simmers in olive oil, is followed by the grey slither of anchovies. Naomi. Gently pushing her nose to the baby's. He tips the bright, heavy falling sludge of tomatoes from the can. Naomi. Tenderly clipping the baby into the back seat of the car. He chops the black olives in half, throws them into the sauce. Naomi. Softly talking to the baby, her voice lilting. It was all so instinctive, so natural."
A less talented writer who tells instead of shows would be like: "Sam told himself to stop thinking about Naomi, but he couldn't." and then move on. Or, they'd use the simile crutch and go with a "Sam told himself to stop thinking about Naomi, but he couldn't. She stuck to his brain like white on rice." But the latter can't compare to Lynes' excerpt above; you can understand he's stuck on without being explicitly told so.
Anyways, it's a five star for me, so you know the vibes. I loved the characters. She did an amazing job with Naomi. I thought the storytelling structure was unique, but I can see how many people would find this confusing or unnecessary. It added some razzle dazzle IMO. Also, the twist... it was something I should've saw coming but I was like SKKRRRTTTT!!! HEART. BREAKING.
I look forward to reading more of Lynes' work. Homegirl was WRITING writing!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: it's a banger periodt
Cons: nada for me but this is NOT for everyone.
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
Writing: 5/5 | Plot: 5/5 | Ending: 5/5
SYNOPSIS
After a difficult breakup, Naomi and Sam are brought together again to take care of baby Tom. But are things really what they seem??????
MY OPINION
Thank you so much becbingesbook for the awesome rec! Funny story: Bec told me she loved this book but hated the writing. She then sent me an excerpt of S.E. Lynes' latest book The Summer Holiday and I was like... I high-key love it LOL. Idk if I converted Bec, but I'm glad she shared it with me because I would've never read this book otherwise. I tend to stay away from the Kindle Unlimited thrillers but this obvi was a banger... FOR ME.
So let me make this clear: this is a NICHE banger. If you enjoy this unique prose (sentence fragments and groups of 3 abound) then this will be for you. If you enjoy a more straightforward writing style; aka subject + verb + object and think sentence fragments sound like slam poetry, then give it an ole skip. But don't you come back here and tell me the writing was *fart noises* (shoutout to Tabitha) when I warned you!
Lynes put on a masterclass of showing vs telling. Here's an example of how Lynes SHOWED that Sam can't stop thinking about Naomi:
"Put her out of your mind. The garlic simmers in olive oil, is followed by the grey slither of anchovies. Naomi. Gently pushing her nose to the baby's. He tips the bright, heavy falling sludge of tomatoes from the can. Naomi. Tenderly clipping the baby into the back seat of the car. He chops the black olives in half, throws them into the sauce. Naomi. Softly talking to the baby, her voice lilting. It was all so instinctive, so natural."
A less talented writer who tells instead of shows would be like: "Sam told himself to stop thinking about Naomi, but he couldn't." and then move on. Or, they'd use the simile crutch and go with a "Sam told himself to stop thinking about Naomi, but he couldn't. She stuck to his brain like white on rice." But the latter can't compare to Lynes' excerpt above; you can understand he's stuck on without being explicitly told so.
Anyways, it's a five star for me, so you know the vibes. I loved the characters. She did an amazing job with Naomi. I thought the storytelling structure was unique, but I can see how many people would find this confusing or unnecessary. It added some razzle dazzle IMO. Also, the twist... it was something I should've saw coming but I was like SKKRRRTTTT!!! HEART. BREAKING.
I look forward to reading more of Lynes' work. Homegirl was WRITING writing!
PROS AND CONS
Pros: it's a banger periodt
Cons: nada for me but this is NOT for everyone.
____________________________
For some sick reason, do you want to hear more of my nonsense? Check out my podcast: Novels & Nonsense streaming everywhere.
March 23, 2023
S.E.Lynes is telling a story that can happen to anyone. The repercussions that happen due to it will actually scare a few readers.
This is the story of Sam and Naomi. They were in a relationship and had to part ways due to several reasons. One fine day Sam accidentally meets his ex, Naomi. When she sees Naomi, she also has her baby in the stroller. Seeing the blue-eyed baby brings a few doubts to Sam's mind.
When Sam calls Naomi the next day, both of them don't know the sleepless nights and problems they will have to face due to it.
The author is trying to discuss a few interesting themes in this book.
I can't call this thriller spectacular in any way, but it is still a decent choice for those who love to read thrillers.
—————————————————————————
You can also follow me on
Instagram ID - Dasfill | YouTube First Channel ID - Dasfill | YouTube Second Channel - Dasfill - Malayalam | Twitter ID - Dasfill1 | Snapchat ID - Dasfill | Facebook ID - Dasfill | TikTok ID - Dasfill1
This is the story of Sam and Naomi. They were in a relationship and had to part ways due to several reasons. One fine day Sam accidentally meets his ex, Naomi. When she sees Naomi, she also has her baby in the stroller. Seeing the blue-eyed baby brings a few doubts to Sam's mind.
When Sam calls Naomi the next day, both of them don't know the sleepless nights and problems they will have to face due to it.
The author is trying to discuss a few interesting themes in this book.
"Generosity is a funny thing. Boundless until it is abused, when it mutates into something that reduces you, makes you resentful in ways you don't want to be, snappy, curt, mean."
I can't call this thriller spectacular in any way, but it is still a decent choice for those who love to read thrillers.
—————————————————————————
You can also follow me on
Instagram ID - Dasfill | YouTube First Channel ID - Dasfill | YouTube Second Channel - Dasfill - Malayalam | Twitter ID - Dasfill1 | Snapchat ID - Dasfill | Facebook ID - Dasfill | TikTok ID - Dasfill1
June 9, 2023
I’ve highlighted four sentences from this book because I loved the writing. I often had to just let the words sink in before I continued. But it wasn’t just the words that made this book stand out, the plot was also engaging and I loved the letters that provide clues towards the intentions of the ex. There was an underlying foreboding feeling, created by a lot of hints of something bad happening. We already know from the beginning that it all ended badly, but not how. That foreboding grew into real discomfort when the story progressed. I would absolutely recommend this to others!
May 10, 2023
4.25⭐
Publication date ~ August 26, 2022
Page Count ~ 356
Audio length ~ 10 hours 15 minutes
Narrator ~ Tamsin Kennard
POV ~ 1st & 3rd person
Featuring ~ manipulation, psychological, thriller, suspense
Manipulation madness!
Obviously us readers knew what was going down, but you can't help but feel bad for Sam. Poor, sweet, blind Sam.
So it's told in the 3rd person by Sam and Joyce (Sam's grandma) and there are some letters written in the 1st person by Naomi (Sam's ex) and Miranda (Sam's best friend/coworker) is 1st personing us too. It started off slow for me, but the pace flowed along nicely and before I knew it I was fully engaged and ready for the conclusion.
Overall, I did not care for all the pandemic talk, but this was on point as a psychological thriller. There were some suspenseful moments towards the end. This is my second winner from this author and I'll be back for more thrilling rides.
*Thanks to Bookouture, S.E. Lynes and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Publication date ~ August 26, 2022
Page Count ~ 356
Audio length ~ 10 hours 15 minutes
Narrator ~ Tamsin Kennard
POV ~ 1st & 3rd person
Featuring ~ manipulation, psychological, thriller, suspense
Manipulation madness!
Obviously us readers knew what was going down, but you can't help but feel bad for Sam. Poor, sweet, blind Sam.
So it's told in the 3rd person by Sam and Joyce (Sam's grandma) and there are some letters written in the 1st person by Naomi (Sam's ex) and Miranda (Sam's best friend/coworker) is 1st personing us too. It started off slow for me, but the pace flowed along nicely and before I knew it I was fully engaged and ready for the conclusion.
Overall, I did not care for all the pandemic talk, but this was on point as a psychological thriller. There were some suspenseful moments towards the end. This is my second winner from this author and I'll be back for more thrilling rides.
*Thanks to Bookouture, S.E. Lynes and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
September 6, 2022
EXCERPT: In the silent dimness, he listens to his son breathe. He feels capable. Trusted. When they were together, she was always snatching things from him, low mutters escaping from pursed lips - 'oh, for God's sake, or 'I can't watch', or 'honestly, it's too painful - before performing whatever task it was correctly. But now he has passed all the tests she set for him, with flying colours.
After a moment, he kneels on the floor and rests his head on the old carpet before lying flat on his stomach. He will pull up this carpet, he thinks. Sand the boards. The mesh sides of the cot allow him to watch his son: the bud of his tiny mouth; his papery, shell-like nails; his whipped downy hair.
His breathing stops. For a moment, Sam's heart clenches. But then Tommy releases the warmest, sweetest, gentlest breath.
'Miracle,' Sam whispers, fingertips pressed to the mesh. There are no words for what he feels in his heart. To be a father, to lie on the floor and watch his son sleep, is the most everyday thing and yet so extraordinary it makes his breath catch in wonder. Nothing must be allowed to spoil this, he thinks.
Nothing must be allowed to take this away.
ABOUT 'THE EX': The love of your life… or your biggest mistake?
It’s hard, meeting your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and accusations, but you try not to show it. You smile politely, even while your heart beats faster.
You watch as he looks down into the stroller, at the beautiful blond-haired blue-eyed baby kicking his little legs in the sunshine, whose innocent smile lights up your world.
You see his face change. You know what he’s thinking.
The next day he calls. His voice is shaking. He wants the truth. Is it his child?
You hesitate, your throat dry, good and bad memories swirling in your mind. You’ve missed him so much… but can you ever trust him again?
After a sleepless night, you arrange to meet, agreeing that the most important thing is doing what’s right for baby Tom.
But months later, when the sirens wail in the night, you have to admit: you never thought either of you would go this far…
MY THOUGHTS: Deliciously evil, Ms Lynes. You had my emotions all over the place. And there's still a wee hitch in my breath when I think of what you put poor Sam through. My heart was pummeled by his anguish and distress. I shredded tissues!
The Ex is a fast and exciting read. It has all the hallmarks of a good psychological drama. It's twisty. The characters are unpredictable - yes, even Sam! Naomi is . . . Naomi. Definitely two sides to her coin. Nonna Joyce is lovely, but I wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of her. I could see why Sam left Naomi to move back in with her at the start of lockdown. She reminds me of my own grandmothers. And Miranda - what a wonderful friend she is.
I loved the way Lynes set the story up at the beginning. I was curious. No, more than curious. I was hooked! And I stayed firmly on that hook right the way through. This addictive read had me flipping pages into the early hours of the morning when I finally put it aside with a shocked gasp and a satisfied smile.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheEx #NetGalley
I: selynesauthor @bookouture
T: @SELynesAuthor @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #psychologicaldrama
THE AUTHOR: After graduating from Leeds University, S E Lynes lived in London before moving to Aberdeen to be with her husband. In Aberdeen, she worked as a Radio Producer at the BBC before moving with her husband and two young children to Rome, where she lived for five years. There, she began to write while her children attended nursery. After the birth of her third child and upon her return to the UK, she gained an MA in Creative Writing from Kingston University. She combines writing with teaching at Richmond Adult Community College and bringing up her three children in Teddington, Middlesex.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Ex by S.E. Lynes for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
After a moment, he kneels on the floor and rests his head on the old carpet before lying flat on his stomach. He will pull up this carpet, he thinks. Sand the boards. The mesh sides of the cot allow him to watch his son: the bud of his tiny mouth; his papery, shell-like nails; his whipped downy hair.
His breathing stops. For a moment, Sam's heart clenches. But then Tommy releases the warmest, sweetest, gentlest breath.
'Miracle,' Sam whispers, fingertips pressed to the mesh. There are no words for what he feels in his heart. To be a father, to lie on the floor and watch his son sleep, is the most everyday thing and yet so extraordinary it makes his breath catch in wonder. Nothing must be allowed to spoil this, he thinks.
Nothing must be allowed to take this away.
ABOUT 'THE EX': The love of your life… or your biggest mistake?
It’s hard, meeting your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and accusations, but you try not to show it. You smile politely, even while your heart beats faster.
You watch as he looks down into the stroller, at the beautiful blond-haired blue-eyed baby kicking his little legs in the sunshine, whose innocent smile lights up your world.
You see his face change. You know what he’s thinking.
The next day he calls. His voice is shaking. He wants the truth. Is it his child?
You hesitate, your throat dry, good and bad memories swirling in your mind. You’ve missed him so much… but can you ever trust him again?
After a sleepless night, you arrange to meet, agreeing that the most important thing is doing what’s right for baby Tom.
But months later, when the sirens wail in the night, you have to admit: you never thought either of you would go this far…
MY THOUGHTS: Deliciously evil, Ms Lynes. You had my emotions all over the place. And there's still a wee hitch in my breath when I think of what you put poor Sam through. My heart was pummeled by his anguish and distress. I shredded tissues!
The Ex is a fast and exciting read. It has all the hallmarks of a good psychological drama. It's twisty. The characters are unpredictable - yes, even Sam! Naomi is . . . Naomi. Definitely two sides to her coin. Nonna Joyce is lovely, but I wouldn't want to get on the wrong side of her. I could see why Sam left Naomi to move back in with her at the start of lockdown. She reminds me of my own grandmothers. And Miranda - what a wonderful friend she is.
I loved the way Lynes set the story up at the beginning. I was curious. No, more than curious. I was hooked! And I stayed firmly on that hook right the way through. This addictive read had me flipping pages into the early hours of the morning when I finally put it aside with a shocked gasp and a satisfied smile.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheEx #NetGalley
I: selynesauthor @bookouture
T: @SELynesAuthor @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #domesticdrama #psychologicaldrama
THE AUTHOR: After graduating from Leeds University, S E Lynes lived in London before moving to Aberdeen to be with her husband. In Aberdeen, she worked as a Radio Producer at the BBC before moving with her husband and two young children to Rome, where she lived for five years. There, she began to write while her children attended nursery. After the birth of her third child and upon her return to the UK, she gained an MA in Creative Writing from Kingston University. She combines writing with teaching at Richmond Adult Community College and bringing up her three children in Teddington, Middlesex.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Ex by S.E. Lynes for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
August 29, 2022
This is Sam Moore's story, principally told by his boss Miranda, who owns a landscape gardening business. In April 2021 Sam is on a hike on the Dorset coast when he spots his ex Naomi and he briefly speaks to her. She has a baby in a stroller named Thomas - is the baby his as the baby's age suggests it might just be??? Later he messages her and she agrees to meet him for coffee. Sam lives with his granny Joyce and her heart sinks when he tells her he's seen Naomi, he had got away from her clutches, rebuilt his life and this re-meet can't be good. What follows from the couple's coffee date is certainly one heck of a rollercoaster ride.
I really enjoy this highly entertaining latest novel from SE Lynes - though I have one reservation, more later! The characterisation is very good, Sam and Naomi are Yin and Yang. Naomi is totally unlikeable, she's a classic twister of words and a mistress manipulator. You can see her game from several miles off but it's addictive reading watching it all unfold and lives implode. Sam is a nice guy, actually he's probably too nice and he's very naive and you definitely want to yell at him to wake up and smell the roses! His granny Joyce is just lovely and the bond the two share warms your heart.
The settings are terrific, I love this part of the world and it's used very effectively and is a great backdrop to all the shenanigans. Joyce's house plays an excellent role too and adds to the atmosphere. This all adds up to a good read, you can see where it's going in places but there are some good plot twists that throw you off from time to time. It's good escapist reading and a perfect book to take to the beach - preferably in Dorset!!
My one reservation - to do with probate, I won't say much more as I don't want to give anything away but some things would not be possible. There is a breezy explanation but I don't buy it!!! Anyway, I enjoy the book, that's what counts at the end of the day and it's fiction so I'll just go with the flow!
A Kindle Unlimited read
I really enjoy this highly entertaining latest novel from SE Lynes - though I have one reservation, more later! The characterisation is very good, Sam and Naomi are Yin and Yang. Naomi is totally unlikeable, she's a classic twister of words and a mistress manipulator. You can see her game from several miles off but it's addictive reading watching it all unfold and lives implode. Sam is a nice guy, actually he's probably too nice and he's very naive and you definitely want to yell at him to wake up and smell the roses! His granny Joyce is just lovely and the bond the two share warms your heart.
The settings are terrific, I love this part of the world and it's used very effectively and is a great backdrop to all the shenanigans. Joyce's house plays an excellent role too and adds to the atmosphere. This all adds up to a good read, you can see where it's going in places but there are some good plot twists that throw you off from time to time. It's good escapist reading and a perfect book to take to the beach - preferably in Dorset!!
My one reservation - to do with probate, I won't say much more as I don't want to give anything away but some things would not be possible. There is a breezy explanation but I don't buy it!!! Anyway, I enjoy the book, that's what counts at the end of the day and it's fiction so I'll just go with the flow!
A Kindle Unlimited read
August 26, 2022
Running into an ex can be awkward. You smile, make small talk but underneath, you remember the reason(s) you are no longer together. What can make this run in even more uncomfortable, when your ex has a baby, and you begin to wonder....
Sam ran into his ex; Naomi and she is not alone. She has a baby, Tommy with her. Sam can't help but feel thing for Naomi. He also can't help but wonder, is the baby hers? Is he the father? The timing is right....
This was a fast read told through various POV's and letters. Boy oh boy, did I feel for Sam in this book! I also wanted to give him some words of wisdom as well.
This was a guilty pleasure read for me. It was fast paced, fun and entertaining!
3.5 stars
#TheEx #NetGalley
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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Sam ran into his ex; Naomi and she is not alone. She has a baby, Tommy with her. Sam can't help but feel thing for Naomi. He also can't help but wonder, is the baby hers? Is he the father? The timing is right....
This was a fast read told through various POV's and letters. Boy oh boy, did I feel for Sam in this book! I also wanted to give him some words of wisdom as well.
This was a guilty pleasure read for me. It was fast paced, fun and entertaining!
3.5 stars
#TheEx #NetGalley
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.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
September 19, 2022
Sam Moore has been living with his grandmother, Joyce, since he broke off a relationship with Naomi Harper at the beginning of the Covid lockdown. He bumps into Naomi while on a hike a year or so later and she's pushing a little boy in a stroller. Sam's suspicions are aroused that he is the father even though Naomi tells him the boy belongs to her friend Cheryl.
The story is told from the points of view of Sam, Joyce, Naomi in the form of a letter to Sam that he was never meant to read, and Miranda, a landscape architect with whom Sam has a business relationship. This book is very well written and, much as I liked the story, I found it very slow going, especially in the first half. The characters were well fleshed out but, other than Joyce, not very likeable. I probably should've felt more empathy for Sam but I mostly wanted to give him a good swift kick in the rear! Finally, at about 75%, the excitement picked up and we were smack dab in the middle of where I suspected we were going! No spoilers here!
One thing I must comment on that really irked me was Sam calling Naomi "Nomes" and both of them calling Tommy either "Toms" or "Tom Tom". It sounded so silly but I admit this is the second book with a Naomi in it where she was sometimes called Nomes. Naomi is such a lovely name I'd squawk any time somebody called me Nomes.
Although I didn't love the book as much as the majority of reviewers, I'd be interested in reading other works by this author. A Kindle Unlimited read.
3.5 Stars rounded up!
The story is told from the points of view of Sam, Joyce, Naomi in the form of a letter to Sam that he was never meant to read, and Miranda, a landscape architect with whom Sam has a business relationship. This book is very well written and, much as I liked the story, I found it very slow going, especially in the first half. The characters were well fleshed out but, other than Joyce, not very likeable. I probably should've felt more empathy for Sam but I mostly wanted to give him a good swift kick in the rear! Finally, at about 75%, the excitement picked up and we were smack dab in the middle of where I suspected we were going! No spoilers here!
One thing I must comment on that really irked me was Sam calling Naomi "Nomes" and both of them calling Tommy either "Toms" or "Tom Tom". It sounded so silly but I admit this is the second book with a Naomi in it where she was sometimes called Nomes. Naomi is such a lovely name I'd squawk any time somebody called me Nomes.
Although I didn't love the book as much as the majority of reviewers, I'd be interested in reading other works by this author. A Kindle Unlimited read.
3.5 Stars rounded up!
August 8, 2022
If you imagine the chorus lyrics to ‘WOW’ ’ by Kate Bush then that’s how this book made me feel🙃
It is as tense as a City in the throes of a power cut, it really is and has the ability to keep you turning page after page
I wasn’t sure, I thought maybe then thought maybe not but the author had me in the palm of her hand as the reality of what one of the main characters ( Naomi ) was up to and the gleeful horror when it was made know was better, well worse than I had imagined
It’s a tale of being aware of what someone is really doing, and even when you think you are, check again
A superbly dark twisted read
And I loved the last 2 lines of the authors acknowledgements, brilliant
10/10
5 Stars
It is as tense as a City in the throes of a power cut, it really is and has the ability to keep you turning page after page
I wasn’t sure, I thought maybe then thought maybe not but the author had me in the palm of her hand as the reality of what one of the main characters ( Naomi ) was up to and the gleeful horror when it was made know was better, well worse than I had imagined
It’s a tale of being aware of what someone is really doing, and even when you think you are, check again
A superbly dark twisted read
And I loved the last 2 lines of the authors acknowledgements, brilliant
10/10
5 Stars
September 8, 2022
I'm so glad I read the reviews and decided to give this book a try. The author, S.E. Lynes, has crafted a well written and intriguing story. Sam, the main character, is reunited with his ex-lover, Naomi, and led by her to heartbreaking events, some of which I was surprised by and some not. Sam is a great character, open, self effacing, and trusting. This story was well worth my time and, I believe, will be worth yours.
August 5, 2022
This was a solid, well written book. The characterisations were excellent, all the characters felt fully fleshed out and you felt as if you kind of knew them. Unfortunately, nothing much happed in the first half of the book. The second half was more interesting but also very predictable. You could see it all coming a mile away.
Sam Moore, all round nice guy and landscape gardener sees his ex girlfriend, Naomi, walking along the beach with a child in a pram about a year after they broke up. Well he walked out on her. She later makes it sound as if it was him being cruel and leaving her in the lurch but she had really been doing Sam’s head in. It seemed he couldn’t get anything right. That’s the classic playbook of the manipulator!
He wonders about the child. They meet again for coffee and she tells him Tommy is his son. The timing works and the child does sort of resemble him. Sam is excited about being a father and he and Naomi gradually rekindle their relationship. Of course, thanks to Naomi’s letters to Sam that she never posted but put in the glovebox of his grandmother’s car, you know that this does not end well.
As I said earlier, it was a well written story but it is far from unique and I guess I expected a bit more. There were no jaw dropping moments as the twists were easily predicted and the ending was also par for the course. It could be a nice beach read or a light diversion for those who want uncomplicated entertainment. Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
Sam Moore, all round nice guy and landscape gardener sees his ex girlfriend, Naomi, walking along the beach with a child in a pram about a year after they broke up. Well he walked out on her. She later makes it sound as if it was him being cruel and leaving her in the lurch but she had really been doing Sam’s head in. It seemed he couldn’t get anything right. That’s the classic playbook of the manipulator!
He wonders about the child. They meet again for coffee and she tells him Tommy is his son. The timing works and the child does sort of resemble him. Sam is excited about being a father and he and Naomi gradually rekindle their relationship. Of course, thanks to Naomi’s letters to Sam that she never posted but put in the glovebox of his grandmother’s car, you know that this does not end well.
As I said earlier, it was a well written story but it is far from unique and I guess I expected a bit more. There were no jaw dropping moments as the twists were easily predicted and the ending was also par for the course. It could be a nice beach read or a light diversion for those who want uncomplicated entertainment. Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
July 29, 2023
OMG. That was awful. I literally want to give Sam a big hug and tell him how lovely he is. My heart breaks for him. Such a nice guy.
Here's a question: What if you saw you EX after a long time? What would be your reaction? What if you part ways in an unfriendly manner? Would you give it a second chance?
Ugh! This is so remarkably written. Honestly, apart from the plot, I fell in love with Lynes' writing. The way she masterfully penned the emotion and rage of the characters is beyond me. The tension never faltered until the very last page.
And Naomi? Ah, I hope she rots in prison. Her and her sister.
A decent read, indeed.
Here's a question: What if you saw you EX after a long time? What would be your reaction? What if you part ways in an unfriendly manner? Would you give it a second chance?
Ugh! This is so remarkably written. Honestly, apart from the plot, I fell in love with Lynes' writing. The way she masterfully penned the emotion and rage of the characters is beyond me. The tension never faltered until the very last page.
And Naomi? Ah, I hope she rots in prison. Her and her sister.
A decent read, indeed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2022
A belter.
I was obsessed with this while I was reading, and when I wasn't. I'm sure I would have finished it in one sitting had life not got in the way!
Gripping from the first page and a variety of characters to love and hate.
I loved Sam, and whilst I was frustrated with how manipulated he was, Lynes does a superb job of helping readers understand how Naomi's behaviour caused him to be like this- constantly blowing hot and cold and making him second guess himself.
I loved the ending too, although I think there was potential for a further twist!
Excellent thriller. Bravo Susie Lynes.
I was obsessed with this while I was reading, and when I wasn't. I'm sure I would have finished it in one sitting had life not got in the way!
Gripping from the first page and a variety of characters to love and hate.
I loved Sam, and whilst I was frustrated with how manipulated he was, Lynes does a superb job of helping readers understand how Naomi's behaviour caused him to be like this- constantly blowing hot and cold and making him second guess himself.
I loved the ending too, although I think there was potential for a further twist!
Excellent thriller. Bravo Susie Lynes.
August 23, 2022
Holy moly this is an intense, heart breaking, incredible psychological thriller.
Naomi is taking a stroll and for the first time since their big break up her ex, Sam, runs into her. Sam sees Naomi with a young baby, just the right age to be Sam's son. After a terrible relationship, has the baby changed his ex for the better? Is Naomi a new person? Should he give her another chance and have the family he always dreamed of having?... There is SO much more to this book that can't be said here without spoilers.
Moving, infuriating, eye opening, jaw dropping, shocking, fast paced and original (for me at least). One of the easiest 5 stars for plot, mystery, thrill, suspense- the whole lot! Loved the depiction of mental health issues, relationship struggles and incorporating difficulties arising from the pandemic too.
However, the style of writing is my most disliked: disjointed sentences, incomplete sentences/missing words (to try explain, to me it was like someone had to reduce a word count for a uni essay at times) and an overuse of unnecessarily large, uncommon words one needs to look up definitions for (also like uni essay)... BUT my word is the story good and it is not even worth reducing the rating over this, which originally nearly had me DNF. I do hope the reference to Virgo male is fixed as that bothered me a lot.
Suspend beliefs is neccesary. Even if the writing style grinded my gears and caused a bad flow at parts, the plot is unreal and gripping. The style is unique in use of POVs and I loved it, particularly the narration of one protagonist talking to the reader and the letters of another.
I definitely recommend this book. Check out TWs online. Publication date: 26 August 2022.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Naomi is taking a stroll and for the first time since their big break up her ex, Sam, runs into her. Sam sees Naomi with a young baby, just the right age to be Sam's son. After a terrible relationship, has the baby changed his ex for the better? Is Naomi a new person? Should he give her another chance and have the family he always dreamed of having?... There is SO much more to this book that can't be said here without spoilers.
Moving, infuriating, eye opening, jaw dropping, shocking, fast paced and original (for me at least). One of the easiest 5 stars for plot, mystery, thrill, suspense- the whole lot! Loved the depiction of mental health issues, relationship struggles and incorporating difficulties arising from the pandemic too.
However, the style of writing is my most disliked: disjointed sentences, incomplete sentences/missing words (to try explain, to me it was like someone had to reduce a word count for a uni essay at times) and an overuse of unnecessarily large, uncommon words one needs to look up definitions for (also like uni essay)... BUT my word is the story good and it is not even worth reducing the rating over this, which originally nearly had me DNF. I do hope the reference to Virgo male is fixed as that bothered me a lot.
Suspend beliefs is neccesary. Even if the writing style grinded my gears and caused a bad flow at parts, the plot is unreal and gripping. The style is unique in use of POVs and I loved it, particularly the narration of one protagonist talking to the reader and the letters of another.
I definitely recommend this book. Check out TWs online. Publication date: 26 August 2022.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 26, 2022
This is the story all about how Sam’s life got twist turned upside down!
Miranda is telling us the story and they all have pandemic fatigue and have just gone through something wild. We don’t know what it is yet but we know that Sam did it and the cause was his ratty ex-girlfriend, Naomi.
He left Naomi early in the lockdown because she was emotionally abusive and he wanted to stay with his Gran who raised him, so she wouldn’t be lonely. A year or so later, he runs into Naomi and she has a little boy. Is it his? If he has a baby, he wants to be there. He’s willing to give it another go.
Naomi tells a different story. She’s the victim here! I don’t think anyone is buying that though and you know she’s crazy because of how much she talks about astrology. Can their stars realign or is she playing him for a fool?
I really liked this. I loved that the pandemic was worked in but wasn’t center stage. Our lives have changed so much and along with that, our relationships have too. Often they’ve been accelerated so it was interesting to hear it from that angle.
I really enjoyed the format as well. Showing us snippets, news clippings, and diary entries along the way. It ratcheted up the suspense because we knew something bad was happening but when? It was like the book version of a jump scare!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read and review! I’d definitely recommend this and will be checking out more from this author.
Miranda is telling us the story and they all have pandemic fatigue and have just gone through something wild. We don’t know what it is yet but we know that Sam did it and the cause was his ratty ex-girlfriend, Naomi.
He left Naomi early in the lockdown because she was emotionally abusive and he wanted to stay with his Gran who raised him, so she wouldn’t be lonely. A year or so later, he runs into Naomi and she has a little boy. Is it his? If he has a baby, he wants to be there. He’s willing to give it another go.
Naomi tells a different story. She’s the victim here! I don’t think anyone is buying that though and you know she’s crazy because of how much she talks about astrology. Can their stars realign or is she playing him for a fool?
I really liked this. I loved that the pandemic was worked in but wasn’t center stage. Our lives have changed so much and along with that, our relationships have too. Often they’ve been accelerated so it was interesting to hear it from that angle.
I really enjoyed the format as well. Showing us snippets, news clippings, and diary entries along the way. It ratcheted up the suspense because we knew something bad was happening but when? It was like the book version of a jump scare!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read and review! I’d definitely recommend this and will be checking out more from this author.
July 20, 2022
The new psychological thriller by author S.E Lynes. I really enjoyed this one for most of the book but in my opinion the excitement dropped a little towards the end. Perhaps I am being a little harsh as no doubt about it this author always writes exciting, intriguing novels.
Sam bumps into Naomi his ex girlfriend twelve months after they split up. The couple split around the start of lockdown and Sam moved in with his nan Joyce. He is surprised to see that Naomi has a child with her, Tommy who she claims is belongs to a friend. It becomes obvious to Sam that he still has strong feelings for Naomi and would love to get back with her. Tommy has similar colouring to Sam and he begins to wonder if he is in fact his son. After further meetings Naomi admits to Sam that Tommy is in fact there child and they start to try and build their relationship once again.
Nan Joyce never got on with Naomi and always felt that she was not the right person for her precious Sam, but on seeing how happy he is in meeting her again tries to help the relationship.
There is a lot more going on in this story and I will not say too much as I don’t want to spoil it. Exciting read with interesting characters.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Sam bumps into Naomi his ex girlfriend twelve months after they split up. The couple split around the start of lockdown and Sam moved in with his nan Joyce. He is surprised to see that Naomi has a child with her, Tommy who she claims is belongs to a friend. It becomes obvious to Sam that he still has strong feelings for Naomi and would love to get back with her. Tommy has similar colouring to Sam and he begins to wonder if he is in fact his son. After further meetings Naomi admits to Sam that Tommy is in fact there child and they start to try and build their relationship once again.
Nan Joyce never got on with Naomi and always felt that she was not the right person for her precious Sam, but on seeing how happy he is in meeting her again tries to help the relationship.
There is a lot more going on in this story and I will not say too much as I don’t want to spoil it. Exciting read with interesting characters.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2023
The Ex is fast-paced, suspenseful, entertaining, and full of twists. I was immediately pulled into Sam and Naomi’s relationship. Who was responsible for their break up? Who's telling the truth? Can either of them be trusted? My allegiance changed throughout this twisted tale of deception and betrayal. I loved the use of letters as a way of expressing the thinking and motivation of one of the characters. S.E. Lynes’ masterful character development drives the story with tension and emotion. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 23, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up
It's hard watching your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and the accusations, but you try not to show it. You watch as he looks down into the stroller, at the beautiful blond-haired blue-eyed baby kicking his kittle legs in the sunshine. You see his face change. You know what he's thinking. The next day he calls. His voice shaking. He wants the truth, is it his child?
This is a difficult book to review as I don't want to give away any spoilers. This is a slow paced psychological thriller. The story is set around the first outbreak of Covid. I also found it a bit predictable but that didn't take anything away from my enjoyment of the book. Naomi and Sam's relationship had ended. Their relationship had been toxic. The story is told from Naomi, Sam and Miranda's perspectives. There isn't really any surprises in this story. I felt the ending was a bit rushed. I took half a star off for it's slow pace.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #SELynes for my ARC of #TheEx in exchange for an honest review.
It's hard watching your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and the accusations, but you try not to show it. You watch as he looks down into the stroller, at the beautiful blond-haired blue-eyed baby kicking his kittle legs in the sunshine. You see his face change. You know what he's thinking. The next day he calls. His voice shaking. He wants the truth, is it his child?
This is a difficult book to review as I don't want to give away any spoilers. This is a slow paced psychological thriller. The story is set around the first outbreak of Covid. I also found it a bit predictable but that didn't take anything away from my enjoyment of the book. Naomi and Sam's relationship had ended. Their relationship had been toxic. The story is told from Naomi, Sam and Miranda's perspectives. There isn't really any surprises in this story. I felt the ending was a bit rushed. I took half a star off for it's slow pace.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #Bookouture and the author #SELynes for my ARC of #TheEx in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
Sam runs into his ex-girlfriend, Naomi, one day after a year apart and she has a baby in tow named Tommy. She claims at first that the baby belongs to a friend, but later the story changes and she says the baby is actually Sam’s. They get back together and end up getting married.
This was an interesting thriller. It was a slow start and about halfway in, it picked up the pace to reveal some really good twists. I had some suspicions early on that I was right about, but I still really enjoyed the story. I didn't like any of the characters and really thought Sam could have been smarter about some things. Overall, an enjoyable book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
This was an interesting thriller. It was a slow start and about halfway in, it picked up the pace to reveal some really good twists. I had some suspicions early on that I was right about, but I still really enjoyed the story. I didn't like any of the characters and really thought Sam could have been smarter about some things. Overall, an enjoyable book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
August 28, 2022
Life is short. Seize the day. Naomi wants Sam back and she will do anything to make it happen. Anything. Sam left Naomi and now he is back, living with his grandmother. Apparently Naomi has a baby son named Tom. A son Sam knew nothing about. With the same blond hair and blue eyes, Sam quickly assumes that he is the father. A father who immediately decides that he wants to be involved in his son’s life.
Things are beginning to take shape. With extreme reins on control, Naomi is going to get Sam back by any means necessary. The three of them will be a nice little family, no matter the cost. Thus begins a roller coaster of events that prove Naomi’s desperate attempts to make it happen.
This is no sweet little love story. In fact, as this book evolves proving that sheer desperation comes with manipulation and control to the point of obsession. The story is delivered in an interesting third person accounting from a couple of characters, especially with letters written in first person from Naomi‘s point of view.
This intriguing book not only features Sam and Naomi, as Sam‘s grandmother Joyce plays a pivotal role. Miranda, Sam’s dear friend is also integral to this story. With these additional characters, the exceptional pacing in this story flows easily. As each letter comes through from Naomi, she definitely wins one of the most unlikable people awards. Naomi states early on that her desperate actions are due the effect that the pandemic had on her life. While she may want Sam back, the question is whether or not she can forgive him for leaving her in the first place.
S. E. Lynes has written an addictive and compelling read from beginning to end. I was eager to see far things would go and what the conclusion would bring. With excellent writing and a thrilling plot, this book was a one-sitting read and was thoroughly enjoyable.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review as well - https://youtu.be/Q80JKFejV1s
Things are beginning to take shape. With extreme reins on control, Naomi is going to get Sam back by any means necessary. The three of them will be a nice little family, no matter the cost. Thus begins a roller coaster of events that prove Naomi’s desperate attempts to make it happen.
This is no sweet little love story. In fact, as this book evolves proving that sheer desperation comes with manipulation and control to the point of obsession. The story is delivered in an interesting third person accounting from a couple of characters, especially with letters written in first person from Naomi‘s point of view.
This intriguing book not only features Sam and Naomi, as Sam‘s grandmother Joyce plays a pivotal role. Miranda, Sam’s dear friend is also integral to this story. With these additional characters, the exceptional pacing in this story flows easily. As each letter comes through from Naomi, she definitely wins one of the most unlikable people awards. Naomi states early on that her desperate actions are due the effect that the pandemic had on her life. While she may want Sam back, the question is whether or not she can forgive him for leaving her in the first place.
S. E. Lynes has written an addictive and compelling read from beginning to end. I was eager to see far things would go and what the conclusion would bring. With excellent writing and a thrilling plot, this book was a one-sitting read and was thoroughly enjoyable.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review as well - https://youtu.be/Q80JKFejV1s
September 17, 2023
Naomi and Sam's relationship had ended after a nasty split and Sam is now back living with his grandmother Joyce.
Sam accidentally bumps into Naomi in town and sees that she is pushing a baby in a pram. She initially says the baby is her friend's baby. The next day Sam calls asking if the baby is his and she tells him he is the father.
Sam meets up with Naomi and is shocked at how she has changed. She is more like the girl he fell in love with. But can Sam trust her?
A great intense psychological thriller. It had several jaw dropping moments and I wasn't sure how this would end.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sam accidentally bumps into Naomi in town and sees that she is pushing a baby in a pram. She initially says the baby is her friend's baby. The next day Sam calls asking if the baby is his and she tells him he is the father.
Sam meets up with Naomi and is shocked at how she has changed. She is more like the girl he fell in love with. But can Sam trust her?
A great intense psychological thriller. It had several jaw dropping moments and I wasn't sure how this would end.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2022
The premise sounds interesting, however, since the person who had done the crime revealed themselves early, I was no longer surprised about the events that followed. Even the plot twist towards the end of the story had failed to save it from becoming one of my disappointing books of the year.
August 28, 2022
Sam Moore and Naomi split during a COVID lockdown and they have no further contact until Sam sees her pushing a young baby in a stroller towards a car park. Covered with a blue blanket, the baby has blonde hair and blue eyes and looks similar to Sam but Naomi hadn't mentioned being pregnant when he left, leaving his keys on the table. Will he ask her and if so, how? The baby is called Tommy and Sam starts to see Naomi again against the better judgement of his gran, Joyce and colleague, Miranda.
This is another winner for me, from the pen of Susie Lynes. I couldn't put it down, finishing it in only a couple of reading sessions. Themes include desperation, obsession and manipulation. A beaut of a tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
This is another winner for me, from the pen of Susie Lynes. I couldn't put it down, finishing it in only a couple of reading sessions. Themes include desperation, obsession and manipulation. A beaut of a tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
August 9, 2022
When Sam accidentally bumps into his Ex girlfriend Naomi he is shaken to find that he is still in love with her. She has a baby that she says belongs to her friend but Sam thinks that the baby may be his.
I enjoyed parts of this story but I found it predictable and a little far fetched.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my me-copy in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed parts of this story but I found it predictable and a little far fetched.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my me-copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2022
Another great book from S.E Lynes. I had Covid for 10 days recently and really made the most of catching up on my reading. Twelve months ago Sam broke up with Naomi and they went their separate ways but when out for a hike Sam runs into Naomi who has a young blonde baby boy in a stroller but is told that the baby belongs to a friend of hers. Sam has never quite gotten over Naomi and we soon learn that Naomi feels the same. Sam has moved in with his grandmother Joyce and Naomi has retained the flat they both lived in. The two end up getting back together and trying
again to see if they make the relationship work.
After seeing Naomi, Sam does wonder if she is telling the truth about the baby who does seem to have a strong resemblance to Sam, could the baby actually be his. The two end up getting back together and trying again to see if they make the relationship work.
Relationship breakdowns are never easy and a scorned woman often builds up a lot of resentment which can then lead to extreme consequences that can turn many lives upside down.
Another book I very much enjoyed and kept me turning the pages and I would definitely recommend this book. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.
again to see if they make the relationship work.
After seeing Naomi, Sam does wonder if she is telling the truth about the baby who does seem to have a strong resemblance to Sam, could the baby actually be his. The two end up getting back together and trying again to see if they make the relationship work.
Relationship breakdowns are never easy and a scorned woman often builds up a lot of resentment which can then lead to extreme consequences that can turn many lives upside down.
Another book I very much enjoyed and kept me turning the pages and I would definitely recommend this book. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.
August 17, 2022
The Ex
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Genre: Thriller
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 8/26/22
Author: S.E. Lynes
Publisher: Bookouture
Pages: 341
Goodreads Rating: 4.15
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Bookouture and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: The love of your life… or your biggest mistake? It’s hard, meeting your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and accusations, but you try not to show it. You smile politely, even while your heart beats faster.
My Thoughts: Sam is living with his grandmother when he sees his ex, Naomi, on the beach with her child. He walks up to ask her if he is the father, while she concedes to the notion, she is very manipulative. The story is narrated by Sam, Joyce (Sam’s grandmother), Miranda (former colleague), and letters from Naomi; it also switches to third person perspective and sometimes, it gets a little confusing on who is narrating the chapter. The first half if is a slower burn novel, but it does pick up in the second half of the story. The trope of the story is greed, manipulation, deceit, with a splash of love and devotion. Sam should have been the person you like and can relate to from the story, however, I felt he was spineless and didn’t stand in his truth. The characters were well written and characterized to the extent that you could feel like you was there with them. The author’s writing style is complex, dark humor, suspenseful, twisty, and creatively written. While some of the twists were predictable, this was still a good, fast paced, quick read that I enjoyed. This book releases next week.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Genre: Thriller
Format: Kindle eBook
Date Published: 8/26/22
Author: S.E. Lynes
Publisher: Bookouture
Pages: 341
Goodreads Rating: 4.15
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from NetGalley and Bookouture and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: The love of your life… or your biggest mistake? It’s hard, meeting your ex after so much time apart. You remember the hurt, the tears and accusations, but you try not to show it. You smile politely, even while your heart beats faster.
My Thoughts: Sam is living with his grandmother when he sees his ex, Naomi, on the beach with her child. He walks up to ask her if he is the father, while she concedes to the notion, she is very manipulative. The story is narrated by Sam, Joyce (Sam’s grandmother), Miranda (former colleague), and letters from Naomi; it also switches to third person perspective and sometimes, it gets a little confusing on who is narrating the chapter. The first half if is a slower burn novel, but it does pick up in the second half of the story. The trope of the story is greed, manipulation, deceit, with a splash of love and devotion. Sam should have been the person you like and can relate to from the story, however, I felt he was spineless and didn’t stand in his truth. The characters were well written and characterized to the extent that you could feel like you was there with them. The author’s writing style is complex, dark humor, suspenseful, twisty, and creatively written. While some of the twists were predictable, this was still a good, fast paced, quick read that I enjoyed. This book releases next week.
July 16, 2022
The love of your life… or a deadly mistake?
It’s hard, meeting your ex after so much time apart. You remember the tears and accusations, the desperate look on his face as he punched the wall, but you try not to show it. You smile politely, even while your heart beats faster.
You watch as he looks down into the stroller, at the beautiful blond haired blue eyed baby kicking his little legs in the sunshine, whose innocent smile lights up your world.
You see his face change. You know what he’s thinking.
The next day he calls. His voice is shaking. He wants the truth. Is it his child?
You hesitate, your throat dry, good and bad memories swirling in your mind. You’ve missed him so much… but can you ever trust him again?
You decide that the most important thing is doing what’s right for baby Tom. But months later, when the sirens wail in the night, you have to admit: you never thought either of you would go this far…
Totally enjoyable read really gripping I read in one sitting totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture
I just reviewed The Ex by S. E. Lynes. #TheEx #NetGalley
Totally enjoyable read really gripping I read in one sitting totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture
I just reviewed The Ex by S. E. Lynes. #TheEx #NetGalley
August 25, 2022
OMG. I have just finished this book and have the most massive book hangover. Ms Lynes is the master of suspense and has surpassed herself once again. Definitely a book you won't want to put down.
Sam and Naomi broke up just before the pandemic, after a relationship so toxic that he was almost driven to suicide. When Sam bumps into her again he remembers how beautiful she looked, and what fun she was. Then when he sees the child with her with exactly the same colouring as him he knows that the child is his. Initially Naomi is very wary about letting him back in to their lives, and his initial reticence changes - she seems like she has really changed - the baby has changed her, and he now only sees what he loved about her.
When his life starts to fall apart, Naomi is there for him, picking up the pieces. This is one of those stories where the narrator - who is neither Naomi not Sam has more of the facts than the main characters, and even the readers can see the bigger picture. It will leave you horrified, fascinated, shocked, but thoroughly entertained.
All in all a fantastic, suspenseful book, which will leave you reading far into the night to find it's conclusion.
Sam and Naomi broke up just before the pandemic, after a relationship so toxic that he was almost driven to suicide. When Sam bumps into her again he remembers how beautiful she looked, and what fun she was. Then when he sees the child with her with exactly the same colouring as him he knows that the child is his. Initially Naomi is very wary about letting him back in to their lives, and his initial reticence changes - she seems like she has really changed - the baby has changed her, and he now only sees what he loved about her.
When his life starts to fall apart, Naomi is there for him, picking up the pieces. This is one of those stories where the narrator - who is neither Naomi not Sam has more of the facts than the main characters, and even the readers can see the bigger picture. It will leave you horrified, fascinated, shocked, but thoroughly entertained.
All in all a fantastic, suspenseful book, which will leave you reading far into the night to find it's conclusion.
August 16, 2022
The Ex was written in a different way than I have read before and I absolutely loved the style. Wrote from a storytellers point of view as if telling the story to us direct. I thought this was incredible especially since the storyteller was involved in the story herself. Genius!
The story follows Sam, who accidentally bumps into his ex Naomi a year after leaving her. In that moment he knows his world has changed in a heartbeat and before he knows it he can feel himself falling deeply back in love with her.
I was 💯 invested in this romance, although I found Naomi’s character to be, well a bitch from the start I was rooting for them. The love I could feel building through the pages was inspiring. But, well, no it didn’t last very long and before I knew it that twists came whirling in one after the other and I felt as heartbroken as Sam himself.
The Ex is one hell of a psychological thriller that will definitely keep you turning those pages.
This is only the second book I have read by the incredible author SE Lynes but it certainly won’t be the last I will definitely be adding her backlog to my TBR.
The Ex is published later this month, and I definitely recommend a preorder for this one!
The story follows Sam, who accidentally bumps into his ex Naomi a year after leaving her. In that moment he knows his world has changed in a heartbeat and before he knows it he can feel himself falling deeply back in love with her.
I was 💯 invested in this romance, although I found Naomi’s character to be, well a bitch from the start I was rooting for them. The love I could feel building through the pages was inspiring. But, well, no it didn’t last very long and before I knew it that twists came whirling in one after the other and I felt as heartbroken as Sam himself.
The Ex is one hell of a psychological thriller that will definitely keep you turning those pages.
This is only the second book I have read by the incredible author SE Lynes but it certainly won’t be the last I will definitely be adding her backlog to my TBR.
The Ex is published later this month, and I definitely recommend a preorder for this one!
September 1, 2022
I always look forward to a new book from S E Lynes and The Ex is another gripping, intelligent and deeply emotional story from this very fine author.
Far more than just a psychological thriller, this book delves deep into the human psyche, looks at how relationships can be controlled, and controlling and turns the stereotypical male/female relationship upon its head.
Cleverly narrated by lead characters Sam and Naomi, along with observations from Sam's work colleague and friend Miranda and interspersed with a letter written by Naomi, the reader is kept on their toes throughout and is allowed to see one story from many different viewpoints.
Sam left his girlfriend Naomi at the beginning of lockdown. He couldn't cope with her controlling, spiteful and cold behaviour any longer, and moved home to live with his grandmother Joyce. Sam works as a landscape gardener with Miranda and was brought up by Joyce in her beautiful house in Lyme Regis. Joyce and Sam are very close and he was able to pay Naomi for his share of their home, and move on. Lockdown hasn't been as bad for Sam as it was for Naomi. He was able to get out and work, whilst she felt lost and abandoned, cut off from friends.
When Sam and Naomi meet accidentally, he is shocked that she is pushing a pram. At first, Naomi claims that the little boy, Tommy, is the child of a friend. As Sam ponders this, doubts begin to creep in and after meeting Naomi again, he is told that he is Tommy's father.
Naomi appears to be a different woman. Caring for Tommy seems to have changed her completely. No longer does she appear to look down on Sam, or make hurtful criticisms about him, or his Gran. Despite his initial misgivings, Sam is determined that he will be a father to Tommy, and the couple agree to start again.
Sam is a caring, gentle man, easily hurt, wears his heart on his sleeve and also easily manipulated. Naomi knows this well and this story is like a slow moving car crash. The reader knows just what is in store, but can do nothing to prevent it. If only Sam could see it too. There were times during the novel when I had to just put the book down, I couldn't bear to read on, to see the inevitable unfold and witness the pain and despair that events were going to cause. It's so very very clever, so heart breaking, so emotional and so bleak at times.
Not only do we have a wonderfully structured plot, with effective narration, we are also treated to such a vivid sense of place. Lyme Regis is brought alive by Lynes so very well, adding depth and colour to what is an gripping and powerful read.
The Ex is whip-smart, chilling and compelling. Domestic noir with a hint of romance running through it. Once again, this author has delivered an original and wholly enjoyable story.
Far more than just a psychological thriller, this book delves deep into the human psyche, looks at how relationships can be controlled, and controlling and turns the stereotypical male/female relationship upon its head.
Cleverly narrated by lead characters Sam and Naomi, along with observations from Sam's work colleague and friend Miranda and interspersed with a letter written by Naomi, the reader is kept on their toes throughout and is allowed to see one story from many different viewpoints.
Sam left his girlfriend Naomi at the beginning of lockdown. He couldn't cope with her controlling, spiteful and cold behaviour any longer, and moved home to live with his grandmother Joyce. Sam works as a landscape gardener with Miranda and was brought up by Joyce in her beautiful house in Lyme Regis. Joyce and Sam are very close and he was able to pay Naomi for his share of their home, and move on. Lockdown hasn't been as bad for Sam as it was for Naomi. He was able to get out and work, whilst she felt lost and abandoned, cut off from friends.
When Sam and Naomi meet accidentally, he is shocked that she is pushing a pram. At first, Naomi claims that the little boy, Tommy, is the child of a friend. As Sam ponders this, doubts begin to creep in and after meeting Naomi again, he is told that he is Tommy's father.
Naomi appears to be a different woman. Caring for Tommy seems to have changed her completely. No longer does she appear to look down on Sam, or make hurtful criticisms about him, or his Gran. Despite his initial misgivings, Sam is determined that he will be a father to Tommy, and the couple agree to start again.
Sam is a caring, gentle man, easily hurt, wears his heart on his sleeve and also easily manipulated. Naomi knows this well and this story is like a slow moving car crash. The reader knows just what is in store, but can do nothing to prevent it. If only Sam could see it too. There were times during the novel when I had to just put the book down, I couldn't bear to read on, to see the inevitable unfold and witness the pain and despair that events were going to cause. It's so very very clever, so heart breaking, so emotional and so bleak at times.
Not only do we have a wonderfully structured plot, with effective narration, we are also treated to such a vivid sense of place. Lyme Regis is brought alive by Lynes so very well, adding depth and colour to what is an gripping and powerful read.
The Ex is whip-smart, chilling and compelling. Domestic noir with a hint of romance running through it. Once again, this author has delivered an original and wholly enjoyable story.
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