The Exes: A GMA Book Club Pick: A Novel

Who hasn’t imagined getting rid of an ex—at least in theory? In this gripping debut thriller, Natalie’s quest for the perfect relationship takes a dark turn as secrets from her past begin to resurface with deadly consequences. All Natalie has ever wanted is “the one”—a loving partner and the happy life she never had. But every relationship ends in death, especially after a devastating fallout that leaves her more alone than ever. Then she meets James—charming, attentive, everything she’s been waiting for. This time, it feels different. But as Natalie tries to build a normal life with him, unsettling truths start to emerge. With a trail of failed—and fatal—relationships behind her, she’s forced to question herself: is she the danger, or is someone manipulating her from the shadows? Told primarily from Natalie’s perspective, the narrative gradually widens to include Claire, James, and even Dimple, with each new point of view adding depth and complexity through shifting timelines. This layered storytelling keeps the reader engaged while slowly revealing pieces of a much darker truth. The novel doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, exploring domestic violence, sexual assault, and the lasting trauma they leave behind. These heavy themes are handled with care, adding emotional weight to an already tense and suspenseful plot driven by complicated relationships and family dynamics. And then there’s Dimple… a mysterious presence woven throughout the story. Who she is—and how she fits into everything—becomes one of the most intriguing threads to follow. As the story unfolds, unlikely alliances begin to form, and the truth starts to surface in unexpected ways. There’s a constant sense that something isn’t quite right, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, the author expertly pulls the rug out from under you. The twists feel both surprising and satisfying, steering the story in directions you don’t see coming. Overall, this is a well-written, gripping suspense novel with richly developed characters and a plot that keeps you guessing until the very end.

I was hoping to love this book! I did not. I got through it but felt it was a slow slow slow burn. Nothing really unique. Twists weren't really twists. I read it all but definitely struggled !

This was a book club pick, but it was still on my TBR stack anyway. I wanted to like it, and at times it was drawing me in, but it would then fall flat with just too much narrative to get to the point, and not enough investigative details.