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A Friend in the Dark
A digital romance turns deadly...
Eden Miller’s world is crumbling. Her husband blindsided her with divorce, and her daughter barely speaks to her. In an impulsive decision to escape her present and revisit the past, she sends a friend request to her college crush, Justin Ward.
One night twenty-three years ago changed the course of her life. It closed the door on Justin and opened the door to her husband, Dave. But what if Eden could have a do-over?
Eden begins an online relationship with Justin that awakens her in ways she never thought possible, and his voice and words make her take bold risks. But something’s off. He knows too much about her and her family…he’s been following her.
Eden is forced to awaken from her fantasy and look for answers—who really is the man on the other line? The truth about Justin—and about what happened that fateful night two decades ago—puts her and her family in a fight for their lives.
Eden Miller’s world is crumbling. Her husband blindsided her with divorce, and her daughter barely speaks to her. In an impulsive decision to escape her present and revisit the past, she sends a friend request to her college crush, Justin Ward.
One night twenty-three years ago changed the course of her life. It closed the door on Justin and opened the door to her husband, Dave. But what if Eden could have a do-over?
Eden begins an online relationship with Justin that awakens her in ways she never thought possible, and his voice and words make her take bold risks. But something’s off. He knows too much about her and her family…he’s been following her.
Eden is forced to awaken from her fantasy and look for answers—who really is the man on the other line? The truth about Justin—and about what happened that fateful night two decades ago—puts her and her family in a fight for their lives.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2024
About the author
Samantha M. Bailey
4 books1,025 followersSamantha M. Bailey is the USA TODAY, Amazon Charts, and #1 international bestselling author of WOMAN ON THE EDGE, optioned for series adaptation, WATCH OUT FOR HER, and A FRIEND IN THE DARK. Her novels have sold in twelve countries. She lives in Toronto, where she can usually be found tapping away at her computer or curled up on her couch with a book. Her next domestic suspense, HELLO, JULIET, will be published in spring 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,233 reviews
March 22, 2024
It all started with a simple drunk friend request..😳😂… Which resulted in this FANTASTIC thriller!! 👏👏 Thank you so much to @thrillerbookloverspromotions @blondethrillerbooklover for having me along on this book tour!! 🥳🥳🥳🥳 Pub date is March 1st!! Trust me.. you don’t want to miss this!! 😉
Like I was saying… Eden is newly seperated…and it’s her first birthday 🎂 alone… 🥺… OMG step away from the Facebook Eden!! Please!! 🍷🍷🍷 After having a couple of drinks.. she decides it a good idea to look up her crush from college… 😬… This could go one of two ways… 🤔..
Umm stalker much?!! 😳 This quickly turned into quite a crazy, creepy, twisted ride!! Who is following Eden?? How does her long lost crush know her every move??? 😳🤷♀️ Don’t even getting me started on her husband!! 😯 I had no clue what he was up to either!! 😳 Just how many SHOCKED face emoji’s can I include in my review?? 😂
This book was such a fast binge read!! I couldn’t put it down! This was my first @sbaileybooks .. Crazy right?! I need to grab her backlist!! 😍😍 Highly recommend adding this!!! 😉
******** UPDATE******* NOW on Amazon First Feb pick!!! *************************
Like I was saying… Eden is newly seperated…and it’s her first birthday 🎂 alone… 🥺… OMG step away from the Facebook Eden!! Please!! 🍷🍷🍷 After having a couple of drinks.. she decides it a good idea to look up her crush from college… 😬… This could go one of two ways… 🤔..
Umm stalker much?!! 😳 This quickly turned into quite a crazy, creepy, twisted ride!! Who is following Eden?? How does her long lost crush know her every move??? 😳🤷♀️ Don’t even getting me started on her husband!! 😯 I had no clue what he was up to either!! 😳 Just how many SHOCKED face emoji’s can I include in my review?? 😂
This book was such a fast binge read!! I couldn’t put it down! This was my first @sbaileybooks .. Crazy right?! I need to grab her backlist!! 😍😍 Highly recommend adding this!!! 😉
******** UPDATE******* NOW on Amazon First Feb pick!!! *************************
April 19, 2024
Available as an Amazon First Reads pick for February!
Dropping off her daughter, Ava, at college for her freshman year, Eden Miller is already nervous about what life is going to be like at home. But when her husband, Dave, pulls the rug out from under her in the campus garage and asks for a divorce, her heart breaks right then and there. Before she knows it, she is living in their once bustling home heartbroken and alone.
Six weeks later, Eden is still cradling her broken heart on her forty-fifth birthday. All she has is an empty bottle of champagne and her Facebook account to keep her company. When her best friend sends her a happy birthday message accompanied by a picture of themselves as college students, Eden starts reminiscing about her college crush, Justin Ward. Twenty-three years ago, she had been head over heels with the bad boy drummer, but in one fateful night everything changed and resulted in Eden walking down the aisle with Dave instead.
Before she can stop herself, however, Eden has sent a friend request to Justin and is shocked when he accepts it straight away. She was once in love with the boy he once was and even if it didn’t end the way she had hoped, what if this is her chance to try her luck with him again? Without second guessing her lack of sobriety, Eden begins messaging him back and forth until she looks up and realizes it’s been hours.
The next morning, though, rather than regret what she’s done, Eden feels reawakened by the attention that Justin has paid her. Not wanting to back away from this new feeling, she throws herself headlong into an online relationship and takes risks that would have made her cringe just days earlier. But as the weeks pass, something starts to feel off. Justin seems to know things that he shouldn’t. Could he have been following her? But if so, why?
Horrified by what she might have invited into her life, Eden makes herself face up to reality. Who is the man she’s been talking to every day? And what really happened on the last night she saw Justin two decades ago? The answers to both of those questions will put Eden and those she loves dearly in the ultimate battle. Will she be able to get herself out of the predicament she now finds herself in? Or has fate already taken control of the reins?
Holy cow, stop my speeding heart! The epitome of a fast-paced thriller, A Friend in the Dark can only truly be compared to the one and only Freida McFadden. Twisty to the extreme, unbelievably dark, and with just the right amount of spice, my mind was well and truly blown away by Bailey’s magnificently plotted domestic thriller tour de force. I mean, I, for one, didn’t see that first twist coming at all, and the blindingly good bombshells didn’t stop there in the least.
The characters were truly something to behold as well, in my opinion. With motivations and behaviors that ran the gamut from innocently naïve to deeply disturbed, this dual POV tale had me second guessing everyone from start to finish. Don’t get me wrong, each was just the right amount of over-the-top, but only in the best possible way.
The plot was where this story utterly shined, however. A rocketing rollercoaster of foreboding and suspense, each time I thought I had it all figured out, I was happily proved one hundred percent wrong. And that climax! What can I say? Delivered at the perfect moment and in the ultimate setting, it kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page.
If there was anything at all in which I could find fault with, it had to do with the mildly open-ended conclusion. For someone who lives and dies by finales that are wrapped up with perfect, tiny, little bows, this one was somewhat missing that piece of the puzzle. So here’s hoping that it merely means a sequel is on the horizon, because if there’s one thing I’d love, it would be the reprisal of all things borderline personality disorder.
All in all, this book was a ride and a half. Already a diehard fan of Samantha M. Bailey, A Friend in the Dark merely cemented her name on my auto-buy author list. Driven both by the sublime characters and the action packed plot, it also made me think long and hard about the road not taken. After all, it was a rare fictional glimpse into middle-aged life, only this one was filled with blinding obsessions, long-buried secrets, and hidden desires. Take it from me, this book is not one to be missed so be sure to add the title to your TBR ASAP. Rating of 5 stars.
Thank you to Samantha M. Bailey, Thomas & Mercer, NetGalley, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for my complimentary copy. I was honored to be one of the first reviewers prior to release. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 1, 2024
👉 Be sure to head to my Amazon Storefront to order. I get a small commission and would love your support!
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: divorce, stalking, infidelity, controlling relationship, gaslighting, death of a sibling, mention of: death of a parent, hit-and-run accident, spousal abuse, mental illness
*Note on my TW: Despite the long list and the dark nature of this book, it was hardly graphic so please don’t be put off by it.
Dropping off her daughter, Ava, at college for her freshman year, Eden Miller is already nervous about what life is going to be like at home. But when her husband, Dave, pulls the rug out from under her in the campus garage and asks for a divorce, her heart breaks right then and there. Before she knows it, she is living in their once bustling home heartbroken and alone.
Six weeks later, Eden is still cradling her broken heart on her forty-fifth birthday. All she has is an empty bottle of champagne and her Facebook account to keep her company. When her best friend sends her a happy birthday message accompanied by a picture of themselves as college students, Eden starts reminiscing about her college crush, Justin Ward. Twenty-three years ago, she had been head over heels with the bad boy drummer, but in one fateful night everything changed and resulted in Eden walking down the aisle with Dave instead.
Before she can stop herself, however, Eden has sent a friend request to Justin and is shocked when he accepts it straight away. She was once in love with the boy he once was and even if it didn’t end the way she had hoped, what if this is her chance to try her luck with him again? Without second guessing her lack of sobriety, Eden begins messaging him back and forth until she looks up and realizes it’s been hours.
The next morning, though, rather than regret what she’s done, Eden feels reawakened by the attention that Justin has paid her. Not wanting to back away from this new feeling, she throws herself headlong into an online relationship and takes risks that would have made her cringe just days earlier. But as the weeks pass, something starts to feel off. Justin seems to know things that he shouldn’t. Could he have been following her? But if so, why?
Horrified by what she might have invited into her life, Eden makes herself face up to reality. Who is the man she’s been talking to every day? And what really happened on the last night she saw Justin two decades ago? The answers to both of those questions will put Eden and those she loves dearly in the ultimate battle. Will she be able to get herself out of the predicament she now finds herself in? Or has fate already taken control of the reins?
Holy cow, stop my speeding heart! The epitome of a fast-paced thriller, A Friend in the Dark can only truly be compared to the one and only Freida McFadden. Twisty to the extreme, unbelievably dark, and with just the right amount of spice, my mind was well and truly blown away by Bailey’s magnificently plotted domestic thriller tour de force. I mean, I, for one, didn’t see that first twist coming at all, and the blindingly good bombshells didn’t stop there in the least.
The characters were truly something to behold as well, in my opinion. With motivations and behaviors that ran the gamut from innocently naïve to deeply disturbed, this dual POV tale had me second guessing everyone from start to finish. Don’t get me wrong, each was just the right amount of over-the-top, but only in the best possible way.
The plot was where this story utterly shined, however. A rocketing rollercoaster of foreboding and suspense, each time I thought I had it all figured out, I was happily proved one hundred percent wrong. And that climax! What can I say? Delivered at the perfect moment and in the ultimate setting, it kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page.
If there was anything at all in which I could find fault with, it had to do with the mildly open-ended conclusion. For someone who lives and dies by finales that are wrapped up with perfect, tiny, little bows, this one was somewhat missing that piece of the puzzle. So here’s hoping that it merely means a sequel is on the horizon, because if there’s one thing I’d love, it would be the reprisal of all things borderline personality disorder.
All in all, this book was a ride and a half. Already a diehard fan of Samantha M. Bailey, A Friend in the Dark merely cemented her name on my auto-buy author list. Driven both by the sublime characters and the action packed plot, it also made me think long and hard about the road not taken. After all, it was a rare fictional glimpse into middle-aged life, only this one was filled with blinding obsessions, long-buried secrets, and hidden desires. Take it from me, this book is not one to be missed so be sure to add the title to your TBR ASAP. Rating of 5 stars.
Thank you to Samantha M. Bailey, Thomas & Mercer, NetGalley, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for my complimentary copy. I was honored to be one of the first reviewers prior to release. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 1, 2024
👉 Be sure to head to my Amazon Storefront to order. I get a small commission and would love your support!
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: divorce, stalking, infidelity, controlling relationship, gaslighting, death of a sibling, mention of: death of a parent, hit-and-run accident, spousal abuse, mental illness
*Note on my TW: Despite the long list and the dark nature of this book, it was hardly graphic so please don’t be put off by it.
June 29, 2024
Samantha M. Bailey's latest thriller, prepare for an absolutely gripping experience that demands to be devoured in one sitting. The narrative unfolds with relentless pacing, immediately entangling you in a complex tapestry of marriage drama, betrayal, concealed secrets, and specters of the past that refuse to fade.
Meet Eden Miller, a 45-year-old realtor thrust into upheaval after her husband of two decades, Dave, abruptly ends their marriage without explanation. Nursing her wounds with the solace of alcohol in her now-empty nest, Eden reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to this juncture. The story takes a dramatic turn as it revisits a fateful night at a fraternity party where, in a drunken haze, Eden missed an opportunity with her longtime crush, Justin Ward. Driven by curiosity and perhaps a tinge of regret, she impulsively sends Justin a Facebook friend request, initiating a flirtatious and heated exchange that quickly spirals into unforeseen territory.
Yet, as Eden's connection with Justin deepens, a series of bizarre events ensue—missing house keys, disconcerting comments from Justin, an eerie sense of being surveilled. Doubt creeps in, prompting Eden to question if Justin is an obsessive admirer or if a vengeful force lurks in the shadows. Adding another layer to the mystery is Eden's estranged husband, Dave, whose cryptic behavior and hidden secrets intensify the enigma. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when an alternate perspective emerges, exposing concealed truths and presenting multiple facets of the story.
The novel maintains an exhilarating pace, ensuring readers are kept on the edge of their seats with its enthralling and unputdownable narrative. While some twists may be anticipated, a surprising revelation at the conclusion enriches the story's depth. Acknowledging certain events may seem far-fetched, and the swift development of Justin and Eden's relationship feels instantaneous, these elements contribute to the overall brisk pace, further immersing readers in the storyline.
With a rounded-up rating from 3.5 to 4 stars, this mind-spinning thriller comes highly recommended for enthusiasts of suspense, mystery, and psychological thrillers—offering a perfect, quick-fix solution for those craving an intense reading experience.
A heartfelt thanks to NetGalley and Tonya Cornish for generously providing me with this digital reviewer copy in exchange for my candid thoughts.
Meet Eden Miller, a 45-year-old realtor thrust into upheaval after her husband of two decades, Dave, abruptly ends their marriage without explanation. Nursing her wounds with the solace of alcohol in her now-empty nest, Eden reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to this juncture. The story takes a dramatic turn as it revisits a fateful night at a fraternity party where, in a drunken haze, Eden missed an opportunity with her longtime crush, Justin Ward. Driven by curiosity and perhaps a tinge of regret, she impulsively sends Justin a Facebook friend request, initiating a flirtatious and heated exchange that quickly spirals into unforeseen territory.
Yet, as Eden's connection with Justin deepens, a series of bizarre events ensue—missing house keys, disconcerting comments from Justin, an eerie sense of being surveilled. Doubt creeps in, prompting Eden to question if Justin is an obsessive admirer or if a vengeful force lurks in the shadows. Adding another layer to the mystery is Eden's estranged husband, Dave, whose cryptic behavior and hidden secrets intensify the enigma. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when an alternate perspective emerges, exposing concealed truths and presenting multiple facets of the story.
The novel maintains an exhilarating pace, ensuring readers are kept on the edge of their seats with its enthralling and unputdownable narrative. While some twists may be anticipated, a surprising revelation at the conclusion enriches the story's depth. Acknowledging certain events may seem far-fetched, and the swift development of Justin and Eden's relationship feels instantaneous, these elements contribute to the overall brisk pace, further immersing readers in the storyline.
With a rounded-up rating from 3.5 to 4 stars, this mind-spinning thriller comes highly recommended for enthusiasts of suspense, mystery, and psychological thrillers—offering a perfect, quick-fix solution for those craving an intense reading experience.
A heartfelt thanks to NetGalley and Tonya Cornish for generously providing me with this digital reviewer copy in exchange for my candid thoughts.
February 2, 2024
It's going to be hard to top this book as one of the worst books I've ever read. I got to chapter 7 before I just read the dialogue and skimmed the chapters over. Disappointed I wasted my Amazon first reads on this.
The characters are ridiculous. I especially hated Eden. She was an idiot.
The characters are ridiculous. I especially hated Eden. She was an idiot.
April 7, 2024
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This is a strange, short, faced-paced thriller that kind of reminded me of some of the erotic thrillers from the 90s. Especially with the whole, "ooooh, BDSM is so fringe and weird" subplot that entered briefly.
I liked the writing style a lot. Eden and Olivia were both distinct narrators with flaws and quirks. I thought Eden was better rounded than Olivia, who fell into a literary stereotype trap that was a little hard to swallow. The first half of this book was great and one twist actually made me gasp out loud, although it didn't pan out the way I had hoped it would.
The second half of the book was a bit anticlimactic by comparison. I thought I knew what was going to happen and then when what I thought was going to happen didn't happen, I realized that I didn't like the actual ending better lol. It almost felt like the author wasn't sure how she wanted to end this book and drew random endings out of a hat.
I would read more from this author but man, this family needs a TON of therapy.
3 stars
January 25, 2024
Well, now I can see why people rave about this author! I have 2 of her other books on my shelf unread and will need to rectify that asap. Talk about a wild ride! So many shocking twists and turns, I certainly didn’t see any of them coming.
Our main character, Eden, was so frustrating! I just wanted to shake her and tell her to wake up. I get it. She was in a bad place and just wanted to feel good about herself again, but there are better ways to do that girl! The dangers of the online world are so easy to get carried away.
This is a juicy and highly bingeable read. There was certainly much more steam than I am used to in a thriller, but it all went with the storyline, so it worked.
Thanks so much to Thomas and Mercer, NetGalley, and Thriller Book Promotions for my advanced copy to read. Published on March 1st
Our main character, Eden, was so frustrating! I just wanted to shake her and tell her to wake up. I get it. She was in a bad place and just wanted to feel good about herself again, but there are better ways to do that girl! The dangers of the online world are so easy to get carried away.
This is a juicy and highly bingeable read. There was certainly much more steam than I am used to in a thriller, but it all went with the storyline, so it worked.
Thanks so much to Thomas and Mercer, NetGalley, and Thriller Book Promotions for my advanced copy to read. Published on March 1st
February 3, 2024
Thrilled I got to read an advanced copy of this excellent book!
Really solid and enjoyable read, although I guessed one of the twists there were still plenty more to keep me hooked! Really glad I picked this from the Amazon’s February advance reads and I really recommend
Really solid and enjoyable read, although I guessed one of the twists there were still plenty more to keep me hooked! Really glad I picked this from the Amazon’s February advance reads and I really recommend
March 2, 2024
This one is tough to pin a rating on. Some of the characters make mistakes they wish they could undo. Others are just plain evil and drag those around them down as well. Eden and Olivia are our storytellers. They are in opposite sides if this coin. Samantha Bailey has given us a thought-provoking read. Happy Pub Day! If you like John Marrs, this book will also appeal to you.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2024
Should I even bother with a quippy introduction? This book was boring. A snoozefest, if you will.
I had no expectations going in to this book which worked out in my favor because this book had nothing to offer. Thriller? Hardly. Suspense? No. Fiction? Well, yeah. You got me there.
⚜ Dialogue
Who needs context clues when characters can just point blank say exactly what they’re thinking? Each piece of dialogue in this novel just reads as an exchange of information from the character to the reader to make sure we know exactly what’s going on. Wouldn’t want you questioning anything in this mystery novel. Truly, I can not recall any natural sounding conversations in this book. Characters monologuing their exact thoughts and feelings to the main character, characters unnaturally bringing up information that only serves as context for the reader- you get the picture.
⚜ The Main Character
If you asked me to describe the main character I would say… Loves her family. Doesn’t like being divorced. Likes hot guys. Is blonde.
The main character, Eden, was not unlikeable only because that would imply she had any traits at all. I disliked her about as much as someone can dislike drywall. The rest of the cast had slightly more personality, I guess. I mean they’re still about as deep as a sheet of A4 paper but the author clearly made some sort of effort to distinguish them which has to count for something.
⚜ The Plot
Maybe I’m just biased for character driven stories but the reveals did absolutely nothing for me. Because why would they? I was so unimmersed in this world that even the more unexpected reveals felt empty. I knew who I was supposed to be rooting for but that didn’t make me care any more about them or their story. The story itself is not particularly unique either. It had potential, I suppose but so do most stories. There were unexpected elements which I imagine might’ve had some sort of effect if I had any reason to invest myself into the story. But I didn’t.
⚜ Final Words
What tried to be a suspenseful, steamy, page-turner was anything but. Featuring a main character without a personality, a lukewarm mystery, and… Actually, that’s about it.
I had no expectations going in to this book which worked out in my favor because this book had nothing to offer. Thriller? Hardly. Suspense? No. Fiction? Well, yeah. You got me there.
⚜ Dialogue
Who needs context clues when characters can just point blank say exactly what they’re thinking? Each piece of dialogue in this novel just reads as an exchange of information from the character to the reader to make sure we know exactly what’s going on. Wouldn’t want you questioning anything in this mystery novel. Truly, I can not recall any natural sounding conversations in this book. Characters monologuing their exact thoughts and feelings to the main character, characters unnaturally bringing up information that only serves as context for the reader- you get the picture.
⚜ The Main Character
If you asked me to describe the main character I would say… Loves her family. Doesn’t like being divorced. Likes hot guys. Is blonde.
The main character, Eden, was not unlikeable only because that would imply she had any traits at all. I disliked her about as much as someone can dislike drywall. The rest of the cast had slightly more personality, I guess. I mean they’re still about as deep as a sheet of A4 paper but the author clearly made some sort of effort to distinguish them which has to count for something.
⚜ The Plot
Maybe I’m just biased for character driven stories but the reveals did absolutely nothing for me. Because why would they? I was so unimmersed in this world that even the more unexpected reveals felt empty. I knew who I was supposed to be rooting for but that didn’t make me care any more about them or their story. The story itself is not particularly unique either. It had potential, I suppose but so do most stories. There were unexpected elements which I imagine might’ve had some sort of effect if I had any reason to invest myself into the story. But I didn’t.
⚜ Final Words
What tried to be a suspenseful, steamy, page-turner was anything but. Featuring a main character without a personality, a lukewarm mystery, and… Actually, that’s about it.
February 3, 2024
Wow! This book is a book you CANNOT put down. It was so well written and I loved it from beginning to end! This is a quick read that you can finish in a day or two, and you will—trust me! I loved the multiple points of view! I felt like Eden was relatable- a woman going through a separation with her husband looks up a guy she was super into in college on FB and friend requests him. From there they start chatting and having a “sexual” (sexting) and emotional relationship. She meets Lila, another divorced woman and befriends her. Little does she know there is more to Lila than meets the eye!
You will 100% want to read this when it comes out on MARCH 1!
You will 100% want to read this when it comes out on MARCH 1!
March 7, 2024
A friend in the dark follows Eden, a recently separated 40 something year old who is going through the blows of her marriage (and only relationship) blowing up, as well as losing her teenager daughter to the throws of university and teen attitudes.
This book has a lot of contemplation from the FMC as she looks back on her life and events leading up to the present to try to figure out how she got here and where she wants to go next. I personally enjoyed diving into the mind of Eden, seeing things from her stand point and relating to certain insecurities and fears of hers. Even though she was a little lost in life and needed a good reality check, I couldn’t help finding her endearing.
Everything starts to go wrong when she drunkenly reaches out to her old college crush who seems to take an instant interest in her. She begins to lose her inhibitions and finds herself spiralling into a world of chaos, and soon wondering if this person is in fact toxic for her, or if her seemingly stalker is somebody else entirely.
I enjoyed the twist in this book and the switch of POVs. Although I felt bad for Eden, I also think she had opportunity for a lot of character growth which left her in a better place than when she started, despite all the bad things that happen.
This was an enjoyable read for me, I read it in one day and stayed up late to see how it ended which is always a sign of a good book!
Thank you to Samantha Bailey, Thomas and Mercer & NetGalley for the ARC!
Pub date: March 1 (available now)
This book has a lot of contemplation from the FMC as she looks back on her life and events leading up to the present to try to figure out how she got here and where she wants to go next. I personally enjoyed diving into the mind of Eden, seeing things from her stand point and relating to certain insecurities and fears of hers. Even though she was a little lost in life and needed a good reality check, I couldn’t help finding her endearing.
Everything starts to go wrong when she drunkenly reaches out to her old college crush who seems to take an instant interest in her. She begins to lose her inhibitions and finds herself spiralling into a world of chaos, and soon wondering if this person is in fact toxic for her, or if her seemingly stalker is somebody else entirely.
I enjoyed the twist in this book and the switch of POVs. Although I felt bad for Eden, I also think she had opportunity for a lot of character growth which left her in a better place than when she started, despite all the bad things that happen.
This was an enjoyable read for me, I read it in one day and stayed up late to see how it ended which is always a sign of a good book!
Thank you to Samantha Bailey, Thomas and Mercer & NetGalley for the ARC!
Pub date: March 1 (available now)
August 15, 2023
Suspenseful, twisty, and addictive. A Friend in the Dark is smartly written and deliciously chilling. I couldn't put it down. This is Bailey at her best!
March 11, 2024
The story is gripping from the start with its fast-paced and intricate plot involving marital drama, betrayal, and past secrets that resurface. Overall, it is a well-written piece that kept me engaged; I finished it in a single sitting. Although the ending was far-fetched, it did not detract from the story. It is a fascinating thriller- 3.5 stars, rounded down for review consistency. I do think this one is worth the read, though! Closer to 4 stars than others I've read.
October 24, 2023
A new novel from one of my favourite authors, the amazing Samantha Bailey, is always cause for celebration!! So when I got the chance to read an early ARC of her latest thriller, A Friend in the Dark (out March 1/24) I jumped at it. And let me say, it is so good!!
This is a dark, twisty, action-packed ride about a relatable middle-aged main character, Eden, whose husband has asked for a divorce and who is also struggling in her relationship with her teenage daughter. Eden decides to reconnect with an old college flame and gets caught up in events that turn her and her family’s lives upside down. Just who and what has she invited into their lives?
This is a fast-paced story that grips you immediately and keeps up the intensity to the very end. The writing is so smooth and easy to read that the pages practically turn themselves. The story flows seamlessly between dual viewpoints and the twists and turns and reveals keep coming one after the other. It’s so dark and twisty and suspenseful! It’s another winner from this author!
If you love fast-paced, gripping thrillers that keep you turning the pages well into the night, then make sure to pick up A Friend in the Dark when it’s out next March! Can’t wait for this author’s next novel!!
A huge thanks to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions, Thomas and Mercer and the author for my advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
This is a dark, twisty, action-packed ride about a relatable middle-aged main character, Eden, whose husband has asked for a divorce and who is also struggling in her relationship with her teenage daughter. Eden decides to reconnect with an old college flame and gets caught up in events that turn her and her family’s lives upside down. Just who and what has she invited into their lives?
This is a fast-paced story that grips you immediately and keeps up the intensity to the very end. The writing is so smooth and easy to read that the pages practically turn themselves. The story flows seamlessly between dual viewpoints and the twists and turns and reveals keep coming one after the other. It’s so dark and twisty and suspenseful! It’s another winner from this author!
If you love fast-paced, gripping thrillers that keep you turning the pages well into the night, then make sure to pick up A Friend in the Dark when it’s out next March! Can’t wait for this author’s next novel!!
A huge thanks to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions, Thomas and Mercer and the author for my advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
October 30, 2023
4.5⭐ This is now the 3rd book I e read by Samantha Bailey and I can honestly say, she really knows how to write a thriller.
Thriller loving friends will definitely want to add this to your TBR list. Eden's husband has asked her for a divorce, she barely speaks to her daughter and she is desperate for something to make her feel better. She reaches out to Justin online (her college crush from 20yrs ago). She is immediately pulled into the attention she's getting from Justin. She feels desired and he's making her feel better. But is Justin who he really says?! How does he know so much about her life? Wooo….this was so bingeable. It took me a bit to get into this one BUT once I did I flew through it. It's deceptive, and twisty and suspenseful. I did predict one of the twists but there was another big one that I totally did not expect.
This is definitely the kind of thriller I love. It was juicy and full of drama!
Thank you to the publisher, author, and ThrillerBookLoversPromotions for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
Thriller loving friends will definitely want to add this to your TBR list. Eden's husband has asked her for a divorce, she barely speaks to her daughter and she is desperate for something to make her feel better. She reaches out to Justin online (her college crush from 20yrs ago). She is immediately pulled into the attention she's getting from Justin. She feels desired and he's making her feel better. But is Justin who he really says?! How does he know so much about her life? Wooo….this was so bingeable. It took me a bit to get into this one BUT once I did I flew through it. It's deceptive, and twisty and suspenseful. I did predict one of the twists but there was another big one that I totally did not expect.
This is definitely the kind of thriller I love. It was juicy and full of drama!
Thank you to the publisher, author, and ThrillerBookLoversPromotions for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
February 2, 2024
For my full review, visit me at: https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
This book was just not for me. I liked the look of the premise with the emerging theme of a stalker, but found the plot development to be predictable and lacklustre.
This book was just not for me. I liked the look of the premise with the emerging theme of a stalker, but found the plot development to be predictable and lacklustre.
February 2, 2024
Rating: 1.0/5
"A Friend in the Dark" is described as being a suspenseful, sensual domestic thriller. It isn't! There is very little that is thrilling about it and the only sense of suspense I experienced was wondering how much longer it would take me to get to the end. As for being sensual, well I would describe the content as being more like soft porn fantasies for bored and frustrated women of a certain age.
The warning signs are there from the outset, with a prologue that attempts to create some suspense and intrigue, but is merely formulaically melodramatic. The whole plot - if you can even describe it as such - is completely bonkers. It is wildly far-fetched and seemingly without any fundamental structure to it. There are no layers to the storyline or the characterisation - it is all very simplistic and superficial. Essentially, this is merely a poor psychological thriller spiced up with some soft porn gilding. I really would advise you not to waste your time or your money on this book.
"A Friend in the Dark" is described as being a suspenseful, sensual domestic thriller. It isn't! There is very little that is thrilling about it and the only sense of suspense I experienced was wondering how much longer it would take me to get to the end. As for being sensual, well I would describe the content as being more like soft porn fantasies for bored and frustrated women of a certain age.
The warning signs are there from the outset, with a prologue that attempts to create some suspense and intrigue, but is merely formulaically melodramatic. The whole plot - if you can even describe it as such - is completely bonkers. It is wildly far-fetched and seemingly without any fundamental structure to it. There are no layers to the storyline or the characterisation - it is all very simplistic and superficial. Essentially, this is merely a poor psychological thriller spiced up with some soft porn gilding. I really would advise you not to waste your time or your money on this book.
February 12, 2024
this was honestly one of the worst books i've ever read lmao
-i was SO intrigued by the premise, it had all the makings of a killer book
-everyone was dumb. like, overwhelmingly, achingly dumb
-so many things made ZERO sense
-writing style wasn't awful, it was just the content that came from them that was bad
-even though it was quick and free, i still mourn the loss of my time
-i was SO intrigued by the premise, it had all the makings of a killer book
-everyone was dumb. like, overwhelmingly, achingly dumb
-so many things made ZERO sense
-writing style wasn't awful, it was just the content that came from them that was bad
-even though it was quick and free, i still mourn the loss of my time
October 19, 2023
Ohh this book. It took me a bit to get into it, admittedly. Eden was a frustrating lead character - naive, easily manipulated, and a bit whiny. But about 35% in, I was totally hooked.
Eden's relationship with Justin - a flame sparked after 20 years - was a bit sad but it was also so very entertaining. Eden was clearly desperate for some positive affirmation and fell hook, line and sinker for Justin's charm. Red flags were jumping out at every corner and I was shouting at Eden through the book - ARE YOU STUPID?! But sometimes it's just so fun to be so invested in a protagonist!
I also loved all the little nuggets strewn throughout. Had someone been in Eden's house? Was someone following her? Was something more sinister going on? When the book takes a turn for the darker world of BDSM, I was truly enthralled! I didn't know who or what to trust and kept questioning everything.
While some of this novel was a little bit predictable for the experienced thriller reader, it was such a stellar ride. I had so much fun seeing how everything fit together, experiencing the character growth, and watching the train wreck unfold.
This is one of those books that you can totally binge in a sitting or two, and I definitely recommend doing just that! Once I was hooked, I really didn't want to put it down!
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions and Thomas & Mercer for the copy.
Eden's relationship with Justin - a flame sparked after 20 years - was a bit sad but it was also so very entertaining. Eden was clearly desperate for some positive affirmation and fell hook, line and sinker for Justin's charm. Red flags were jumping out at every corner and I was shouting at Eden through the book - ARE YOU STUPID?! But sometimes it's just so fun to be so invested in a protagonist!
I also loved all the little nuggets strewn throughout. Had someone been in Eden's house? Was someone following her? Was something more sinister going on? When the book takes a turn for the darker world of BDSM, I was truly enthralled! I didn't know who or what to trust and kept questioning everything.
While some of this novel was a little bit predictable for the experienced thriller reader, it was such a stellar ride. I had so much fun seeing how everything fit together, experiencing the character growth, and watching the train wreck unfold.
This is one of those books that you can totally binge in a sitting or two, and I definitely recommend doing just that! Once I was hooked, I really didn't want to put it down!
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions and Thomas & Mercer for the copy.
March 19, 2024
⭐️ 3 stars ⭐️
Her life is falling apart, but maybe an old flame can help her spark her life up… or send it all down in flames.
— SPOILERS AT THE END! Don’t read if you like being surprised. If you have triggers, take care of yourself. —
Who can you trust online? My takeaway from reading this is no one. Sometimes, we can’t even trust ourselves.
A Friend in The Dark is a gripping, nail-biting thriller, with surprising twists and turns.
I loved the surprise dual pov, and the writing style was very immersive and engaging. I love when thrillers make me feel like I’m investigating, trying to find the truth among the lies.
The ending is where the story lost me. The final twist, although unexpected, wasn’t as impactful as I was hoping. After so much tension built up, i expected a bigger explosion, a bigger fallout, more of a bang.
This was still an interesting read, and I look forward to reading more of this author’s works.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
CWs (spoilers):
- Catfishing
- Stalking, kidnapping
- Death and violence
- Domestic violence, domestic abuse
- No sex scenes (or closed doors)
- Mentally ill MC
Her life is falling apart, but maybe an old flame can help her spark her life up… or send it all down in flames.
— SPOILERS AT THE END! Don’t read if you like being surprised. If you have triggers, take care of yourself. —
Who can you trust online? My takeaway from reading this is no one. Sometimes, we can’t even trust ourselves.
A Friend in The Dark is a gripping, nail-biting thriller, with surprising twists and turns.
I loved the surprise dual pov, and the writing style was very immersive and engaging. I love when thrillers make me feel like I’m investigating, trying to find the truth among the lies.
The ending is where the story lost me. The final twist, although unexpected, wasn’t as impactful as I was hoping. After so much tension built up, i expected a bigger explosion, a bigger fallout, more of a bang.
This was still an interesting read, and I look forward to reading more of this author’s works.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
CWs (spoilers):
- Catfishing
- Stalking, kidnapping
- Death and violence
- Domestic violence, domestic abuse
- No sex scenes (or closed doors)
- Mentally ill MC
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
Wow! Do I need to say anything more!
I loved this book and devoured it so fast. There is just something about Bailey’s writing that immediately hooks you and doesn’t let go until the very end. I loved the dual POV and it really increased the suspense. There were so many plot twists that left my jaw on the floor! I highly recommend that you add this to your TBR because this is one you don’t want to miss! If I could give more than 5 stars, I would!!!!!
Many thanks to Samantha Bailey and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for allowing me to be apart of this exclusive tour!
I loved this book and devoured it so fast. There is just something about Bailey’s writing that immediately hooks you and doesn’t let go until the very end. I loved the dual POV and it really increased the suspense. There were so many plot twists that left my jaw on the floor! I highly recommend that you add this to your TBR because this is one you don’t want to miss! If I could give more than 5 stars, I would!!!!!
Many thanks to Samantha Bailey and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for allowing me to be apart of this exclusive tour!
February 8, 2024
The amount of 5 star reviews for this book has me convinced that A) Amazon pays people to give high ratings on their author’s books or B) the people who think this is worth 5 stars have never read a thriller before. The writing seemed unfledged from the start. By chapter two the author already had me confused on whether Jenna and Natalie are confidants or fair weather friends. Eden first says “of course, Jenna and Natalie support me… offering whatever I needed to get through the next little while.” Then a few pages later: “I couldn’t talk to Jenna and Natalie about it. They love Dave … It felt like a betrayal to talk about him with people who know us both.” If these were your best friends for 20 years, whom you knew before Dave, and can’t tell them about your feelings after HE left YOU, then that’s a crappy friendship if I ever heard of one. Eden also says: “I don’t have any close, female friends, who are separated, or divorced.” Umm Jenna is a single mom and they’re apparently BFFs so that left me confused.
We learn facts about Eden’s life and past whenever the author feels like throwing it in. There wasn’t a great linear path to divulging Eden’s thoughts or history so it was hard to get an accurate read on the situations since I wasn’t sure if we had all the facts yet. The job fallout that occurred in chapter 8 was ridiculous. Eden did nothing to help herself when talking to her boss and I find it hard to believe that what she did was illegal. It was a very poor excuse by the author to get her to lose her job…and for what reason?
**Slight spoilers below**
Olivia’s voice is slightly less annoying to read but again, her chapters shed no new light on anything. Not sure what changing to her POV did to enhance the story…unless we weren’t supposed to deduce that Justin was an abusive a-hole already then I guess that was the point. Eden really is a dunce if she didn’t recognize Olivia after googling Justin and seeing their wedding picture. I know Olivia apparently “changed” since then but I find it hard to believe brown hair and lost weight would make her unrecognizable. More points in the Eden is a Dumb Dumb category.
There is so much repetitive details throughout every part. Part One is all about Eden being separated, her daughter hating her, and her identity crisis. In Part Two Olivia harps on Justin being abusive, her poor brother, and that she has some secret. It was boring to read and at 70%…nothing had happened. Also, the only thing Justin did in this book is shower. Every time we turn around, Justin is getting in or out of the shower!
Don’t even get me started on the whole Ava debacle. Eden flat out says her trusty BFFs offered to come search but she needed to be “proactive now.” In her demented brain the only person who can help her is a relative stranger (that she hasn’t even met in real life since college and has been a total dick to her) and not the people who have been loyal and supportive. Eden then proceeds to sit in her car for 30 minutes because she arrived early to Justin’s house. Coincidently, that’s how long it would take Natalie and Jenna to drive from their homes so more points in the Eden is a Dumb Dumb camp.
Ultimately, this was a waste of time and not worth my Amazon first reads pick. I would have DNF’d this but it was almost comical how bad it was that I did want to see what whacky twist may have been thrown in. The ending was ridiculous, far fetched, and totally unbelievable. I should have just looked up a spoiler and moved on to something I actually wanted to read.
We learn facts about Eden’s life and past whenever the author feels like throwing it in. There wasn’t a great linear path to divulging Eden’s thoughts or history so it was hard to get an accurate read on the situations since I wasn’t sure if we had all the facts yet. The job fallout that occurred in chapter 8 was ridiculous. Eden did nothing to help herself when talking to her boss and I find it hard to believe that what she did was illegal. It was a very poor excuse by the author to get her to lose her job…and for what reason?
**Slight spoilers below**
Olivia’s voice is slightly less annoying to read but again, her chapters shed no new light on anything. Not sure what changing to her POV did to enhance the story…unless we weren’t supposed to deduce that Justin was an abusive a-hole already then I guess that was the point. Eden really is a dunce if she didn’t recognize Olivia after googling Justin and seeing their wedding picture. I know Olivia apparently “changed” since then but I find it hard to believe brown hair and lost weight would make her unrecognizable. More points in the Eden is a Dumb Dumb category.
There is so much repetitive details throughout every part. Part One is all about Eden being separated, her daughter hating her, and her identity crisis. In Part Two Olivia harps on Justin being abusive, her poor brother, and that she has some secret. It was boring to read and at 70%…nothing had happened. Also, the only thing Justin did in this book is shower. Every time we turn around, Justin is getting in or out of the shower!
Don’t even get me started on the whole Ava debacle. Eden flat out says her trusty BFFs offered to come search but she needed to be “proactive now.” In her demented brain the only person who can help her is a relative stranger (that she hasn’t even met in real life since college and has been a total dick to her) and not the people who have been loyal and supportive. Eden then proceeds to sit in her car for 30 minutes because she arrived early to Justin’s house. Coincidently, that’s how long it would take Natalie and Jenna to drive from their homes so more points in the Eden is a Dumb Dumb camp.
Ultimately, this was a waste of time and not worth my Amazon first reads pick. I would have DNF’d this but it was almost comical how bad it was that I did want to see what whacky twist may have been thrown in. The ending was ridiculous, far fetched, and totally unbelievable. I should have just looked up a spoiler and moved on to something I actually wanted to read.
October 18, 2023
First thoughts as I picked up this book were "Let's get twisty!" ... um, did she ever!😳
I binge read this book. Could NOT put it down! The storyline is fast paced and we've got ourselves some deeply flawed characters. There is so much to unpack here but this is a SPOILER FREE zone!😉 So here's what I'll say. The twists are the real deal, and while I did figure out one... there's a twist I DID NOT see coming! Whaaaaat!?👀 Very clever indeed!👏
I would highly recommend this as a book club read. It would make for such an awesome discussion!
Huge thank you to Thriller Book Lovers and Sam Bailey for inviting me to join this exclusive tour!
Haven't read any of Sam's books?
Here's my list in order of favourites...
🔸Woman On The Edge
🔸A Friend In The Dark
🔸Watch Out For Her
Fun fact! These were all 5 star reads for me!
I binge read this book. Could NOT put it down! The storyline is fast paced and we've got ourselves some deeply flawed characters. There is so much to unpack here but this is a SPOILER FREE zone!😉 So here's what I'll say. The twists are the real deal, and while I did figure out one... there's a twist I DID NOT see coming! Whaaaaat!?👀 Very clever indeed!👏
I would highly recommend this as a book club read. It would make for such an awesome discussion!
Huge thank you to Thriller Book Lovers and Sam Bailey for inviting me to join this exclusive tour!
Haven't read any of Sam's books?
Here's my list in order of favourites...
🔸Woman On The Edge
🔸A Friend In The Dark
🔸Watch Out For Her
Fun fact! These were all 5 star reads for me!
March 23, 2024
I should’ve stopped reading this when I was 30 pages in, but thought it would improve. It didn’t. I can’t wrap my mind around a 45 year old being as stupid as Eden was. Olivia’s subplot/history was absolutely ridiculous and far fetched. I don’t even want to start about Dave. There was too much going on with each character and since the book was so short the author certainly could’ve afforded more detail about each aspect (Olivia’s voices/diagnosis or Dave’s preferences, for example). There wasn’t nearly enough intrigue overall and events were just plunked in for shock value. The only even slightly developed character was Justin and even still he seemed poorly mapped out. Do yourself a big favour and please read anything else (except maybe The Teacher because EW still getting over how offputting that book is).
October 30, 2023
✨B O O K • T O U R✨
A Friend in the Dark // Releases: March 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to the fab @this.human.reads for the professional af looking pic 🤩 always helping a girl out.
#ad I received a gifted copy of this book - all thoughts are mine and mine alone - many thanks @thrillerbookloverspromotions & @sbaileybooks - EXCLUSIVE TOUR -
This book grabs you from the start and keeps you completely hooked and entertained throughout. What you think you know - you don’t really know.
You will relate to the characters in this book especially that of Eden. She desperately wants to believe that she can have that passionate type of love again but she’s cautious of the hurt that comes if it doesn’t work out the way she wants it to.
She should have listened to herself … but now it’s too late.
You won’t be able to put this book down. And if you have to you won’t be able to forget it while you’re busy doing other things. So carve out a chunk of time to read this one!
Loved this book and also The Vacancy in Room 10 - my review for that is coming on Oct 31 stay tuned. Two books you’re gonna wanna read if you love thrillers.
#aFriendinTheDark #thrillerbookloverspromotions #books #lovereading #thrillerbooks #mustreadbooks #bookaddict #booklove #booklovers #readersofinstagram #tbr #bookworms #booksofig #alwaysreading #bookrecommendation #bookaesthetic #bookishlife #readstagram #girlswhoread #readersofinsta
A Friend in the Dark // Releases: March 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to the fab @this.human.reads for the professional af looking pic 🤩 always helping a girl out.
#ad I received a gifted copy of this book - all thoughts are mine and mine alone - many thanks @thrillerbookloverspromotions & @sbaileybooks - EXCLUSIVE TOUR -
This book grabs you from the start and keeps you completely hooked and entertained throughout. What you think you know - you don’t really know.
You will relate to the characters in this book especially that of Eden. She desperately wants to believe that she can have that passionate type of love again but she’s cautious of the hurt that comes if it doesn’t work out the way she wants it to.
She should have listened to herself … but now it’s too late.
You won’t be able to put this book down. And if you have to you won’t be able to forget it while you’re busy doing other things. So carve out a chunk of time to read this one!
Loved this book and also The Vacancy in Room 10 - my review for that is coming on Oct 31 stay tuned. Two books you’re gonna wanna read if you love thrillers.
#aFriendinTheDark #thrillerbookloverspromotions #books #lovereading #thrillerbooks #mustreadbooks #bookaddict #booklove #booklovers #readersofinstagram #tbr #bookworms #booksofig #alwaysreading #bookrecommendation #bookaesthetic #bookishlife #readstagram #girlswhoread #readersofinsta
November 1, 2023
This is an easy read that I flew through in one sitting. I have to admit that I was eye-rolling a bit with the naivety of Eden in the beginning of the story. She was distraught so I understood. She was lonely and wasn't thinking clearly. After all, her husband had just left her. She was desperate for something positive in her life.
Eden reconnects with her college crush, Justin Ward, after 20 years, via the Internet. When he responds/accepts to her right away she is thrilled/nervous/excited. This is where I thought she was being very naive for a 45-year woman.
Who is Justin now? She doesn't know him, and he seems to know a lot about her when she was the one who messaged him first. Has he been watching her?
I loved the twist in part two. I guessed it somewhat, but not all of it. This story is so bingey. Once I started, I didn't want to stop.
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions and Thomas and Mercer for the advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Eden reconnects with her college crush, Justin Ward, after 20 years, via the Internet. When he responds/accepts to her right away she is thrilled/nervous/excited. This is where I thought she was being very naive for a 45-year woman.
Who is Justin now? She doesn't know him, and he seems to know a lot about her when she was the one who messaged him first. Has he been watching her?
I loved the twist in part two. I guessed it somewhat, but not all of it. This story is so bingey. Once I started, I didn't want to stop.
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions and Thomas and Mercer for the advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 14, 2023
Samantha M. Bailey’s A FRIEND IN THE DARK simmers with palpable desire and twists that’ll have readers gasping. It’s rare to see a story centered on a middle-aged woman, and Bailey does a beautiful job exploring what it means to suddenly be single with awakened needs while also navigating being a mother to a grown, distant child. Eden is a woman with a fractured family and life who’s easily relatable even as she makes life-altering mistakes. Just when you think you know the direction of her story, you get knocked sideways with twist after jaw-dropping twist. This is a must-read for any thriller lover!
October 14, 2023
This is my first Samantha Bailey book. It starts out sexy, when Eden finds herself separated and completely alone after dropping her only child off at college. I was so devastated for her. She reaches out to her college crush,Justin, and their online interaction has the heat turned up to 11. Eden feels like she's getting her mojo back.
It's a thriller, not a romance, so it's not all sexy times. Things start to go terribly awry for Eden, and the intensity turns up. This is an edge of your seat thriller, and I had no idea what was coming. So many brilliant twists and turns.
It was addictive and compulsively readable. I highly recommend it!
It's a thriller, not a romance, so it's not all sexy times. Things start to go terribly awry for Eden, and the intensity turns up. This is an edge of your seat thriller, and I had no idea what was coming. So many brilliant twists and turns.
It was addictive and compulsively readable. I highly recommend it!
March 5, 2024
Eden Miller and her husband Dave are dropping their daughter, Ava, at the University of Michigan for her first semester. They will be empty nesters for the first time. Dave surprises Eden by telling her he wants a divorce. Out of the blue, with no warning at all. Eden is devastated, angry, and hurt. She can't understand why Dave wants a divorce and why now? When Ava finds out she spirals out of control. She wants her parents together and will find reasons to get them together. Dave has packed a bag and rented an apartment. He drops Eden at home and goes on to his new life. This isn't at all the evening that Eden thought she'd be having. What is she going to do now?
Eden chats with her two best friends online and tells them about her day. They are as shocked as Eden is. They all drink too much wine and when Eden gets off of FaceTime she decides to look up her college crush. Justin Ward was gorgeous in college and every girl wanted him. Eden was his tutor to help him pass his classes. Justin was a drummer in a band and played almost every night. Eden wanted him and decided to go to a frat party that he had invited her to. She got very sick at the party and that was the last time she saw Justin. She finds him on Facebook and decides to send him a friend request. Almost immediately, her phone pings, and the friend request has been accepted.
Eden begins chatting online with Justin and he gives her everything she needs. She's even sexting for the first time in her life and she's never felt more desirable and alive. Why is it when Eden visits him at one of his construction sites that he seems so angry to see her? Why does Eden feel like someone is watching her? Is she imagining it or is there a silver car following her? What happened to the spare key that is hidden under the porch swing? Why does it feel like someone has been in the house? Is Eden imagining things or is she being stalked? When things start happening and her family is in danger who can she turn to?
A Friend in the Dark is an unsettling thriller that makes you question who's really on the other side of your online chats? Be careful what you wish for! I rate A Friend in the Dark 4 stars and recommend it to anyone that likes a good thriller. There are some twists along the way that will keep you flipping the pages way too fast. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy of A Friend in the Dark in exchange for a fair review. #AFriendInTheDark #bookreview
Eden chats with her two best friends online and tells them about her day. They are as shocked as Eden is. They all drink too much wine and when Eden gets off of FaceTime she decides to look up her college crush. Justin Ward was gorgeous in college and every girl wanted him. Eden was his tutor to help him pass his classes. Justin was a drummer in a band and played almost every night. Eden wanted him and decided to go to a frat party that he had invited her to. She got very sick at the party and that was the last time she saw Justin. She finds him on Facebook and decides to send him a friend request. Almost immediately, her phone pings, and the friend request has been accepted.
Eden begins chatting online with Justin and he gives her everything she needs. She's even sexting for the first time in her life and she's never felt more desirable and alive. Why is it when Eden visits him at one of his construction sites that he seems so angry to see her? Why does Eden feel like someone is watching her? Is she imagining it or is there a silver car following her? What happened to the spare key that is hidden under the porch swing? Why does it feel like someone has been in the house? Is Eden imagining things or is she being stalked? When things start happening and her family is in danger who can she turn to?
A Friend in the Dark is an unsettling thriller that makes you question who's really on the other side of your online chats? Be careful what you wish for! I rate A Friend in the Dark 4 stars and recommend it to anyone that likes a good thriller. There are some twists along the way that will keep you flipping the pages way too fast. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy of A Friend in the Dark in exchange for a fair review. #AFriendInTheDark #bookreview
December 18, 2023
All you really need to know is that Samantha M. Bailey is a highly skilled thriller writer, but I will give you more than that. I never know what is going to happen in her novels, and they are such a wild ride as a result. Her upcoming thriller, A Friend in the Dark, is no exception to that!
This was a fast read as it was hard to put down. When I had to get back to real life, I was thinking about the characters and what would happen next for them. There were lots of interesting twists. I thought I could figure some things out, but then other parts would completely surprise me. It was definitely suspenseful and some parts were even disturbing.
My only concern is minor, in that I was expecting the prologue to come back into play somehow and was confused when it didn't. However, that didn't take away from how well executed this story was.
I am always going to be a fan of Samantha's writing and already can't wait until her next thriller, even though this one has yet to officially be released. (Be on the lookout in March!)
(Trigger warning below)
Movie casting suggestions:
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TW: Domestic violence; potential date rape
This was a fast read as it was hard to put down. When I had to get back to real life, I was thinking about the characters and what would happen next for them. There were lots of interesting twists. I thought I could figure some things out, but then other parts would completely surprise me. It was definitely suspenseful and some parts were even disturbing.
My only concern is minor, in that I was expecting the prologue to come back into play somehow and was confused when it didn't. However, that didn't take away from how well executed this story was.
I am always going to be a fan of Samantha's writing and already can't wait until her next thriller, even though this one has yet to officially be released. (Be on the lookout in March!)
(Trigger warning below)
Movie casting suggestions:
Eden: Rachel McAdams
Olivia: Rose Byrne
Justin: Colin Farrell
Dave: Eric Winter
Ava: Kylie Rogers
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TW: Domestic violence; potential date rape
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