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Twenty Years a Stranger
Is it possible for anyone to really know another person?
That is the question Grace King must ask herself when she receives an email informing her that the man she has been married to for the last twenty years is an accomplished con-man, leading multiple lives with at least four different women. Worse still, she learns he has children with these women, but Daniel always told Grace he didn’t want children…
In a split second, Grace’s world is torn apart. She is forced to face up to the fact that her marriage is a sham and the enviable lifestyle she enjoyed with Daniel was all based on lies and deceit. With Daniel suddenly threatening to go bankrupt, Grace decides to turn amateur detective in an attempt to salvage anything she can from her old life and avoid financial as well as emotional ruin, but can she cope with what she finds out?
As increasingly disturbing secrets about Daniel emerge, events spiral out of control and Grace begins to see just how far he is prepared to go to protect those secrets. A dangerous game of cat and mouse ensues, but it is clear there can only ever be one winner. Pushed to breaking point, Grace is about to discover what she is truly capable of.
Everyone has choices and those choices always have consequences.
Based on true events, this compelling story is filled with twists and turns and sadness and laughter that will keep readers gripped until the very last moment.
That is the question Grace King must ask herself when she receives an email informing her that the man she has been married to for the last twenty years is an accomplished con-man, leading multiple lives with at least four different women. Worse still, she learns he has children with these women, but Daniel always told Grace he didn’t want children…
In a split second, Grace’s world is torn apart. She is forced to face up to the fact that her marriage is a sham and the enviable lifestyle she enjoyed with Daniel was all based on lies and deceit. With Daniel suddenly threatening to go bankrupt, Grace decides to turn amateur detective in an attempt to salvage anything she can from her old life and avoid financial as well as emotional ruin, but can she cope with what she finds out?
As increasingly disturbing secrets about Daniel emerge, events spiral out of control and Grace begins to see just how far he is prepared to go to protect those secrets. A dangerous game of cat and mouse ensues, but it is clear there can only ever be one winner. Pushed to breaking point, Grace is about to discover what she is truly capable of.
Everyone has choices and those choices always have consequences.
Based on true events, this compelling story is filled with twists and turns and sadness and laughter that will keep readers gripped until the very last moment.
399 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2020
19 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Twelves
2 books6 followersWelcome to my Goodreads Author page!
I am keen to connect with all my readers, so please follow me on Facebook (Deborah Twelves), Twitter (@Deborah_Twelves) and Instagram (deborah twelves author)
Twenty Years a Stranger is my debut novel and I am proud to share it with you. This book is very personal to me, being based on true events in my own life, and I would love to know what you think of it.
A little bit about me…
I was born in England in the Yorkshire town of Sheffield, but grew up from the age of four in the village of Ponteland, near Newcastle upon Tyne, with my mum, dad and brother. I studied French and Spanish at Edinburgh University, then taught languages for a number of years, living in France, Spain and Northern Quebec, as well as various parts of the UK. I now divide my time between my beach-front home in Pwllheli, on the idyllic Llyn Peninsula of North Wales and my family home in the equally stunning county of Northumberland.
I have always loved travelling (Thursday’s child has far to go) and my recent role as translator/interpreter with Bespoke Rallies has given me the opportunity to visit some amazing locations such as Madagascar in 2019, which inspired the setting for my next novel Ghost of a Stranger, coming soon. I am looking forward to the Amazon Adventure in 2021 and maybe more ideas for future books!
I adore my animals and have a black Labrador called Nala and a black Lusitano horse called Recurso (Ric), who are my pride and joy.
I began sailing at an early age with my father at Sunderland Yacht Club and it remains my great passion, particularly the racing. I am a fan of all water sports and am also a keen skier. In quieter moments I enjoy playing the piano.
I have written a number of articles for the sailing press over the years, but have always aspired to write a novel of my own. When events in my own life took a particularly shocking turn, I suddenly found myself with the inspiration to do just that!
How true the saying that everything happens for a reason!
https://www.facebook.com/debbie.twelves
I am keen to connect with all my readers, so please follow me on Facebook (Deborah Twelves), Twitter (@Deborah_Twelves) and Instagram (deborah twelves author)
Twenty Years a Stranger is my debut novel and I am proud to share it with you. This book is very personal to me, being based on true events in my own life, and I would love to know what you think of it.
A little bit about me…
I was born in England in the Yorkshire town of Sheffield, but grew up from the age of four in the village of Ponteland, near Newcastle upon Tyne, with my mum, dad and brother. I studied French and Spanish at Edinburgh University, then taught languages for a number of years, living in France, Spain and Northern Quebec, as well as various parts of the UK. I now divide my time between my beach-front home in Pwllheli, on the idyllic Llyn Peninsula of North Wales and my family home in the equally stunning county of Northumberland.
I have always loved travelling (Thursday’s child has far to go) and my recent role as translator/interpreter with Bespoke Rallies has given me the opportunity to visit some amazing locations such as Madagascar in 2019, which inspired the setting for my next novel Ghost of a Stranger, coming soon. I am looking forward to the Amazon Adventure in 2021 and maybe more ideas for future books!
I adore my animals and have a black Labrador called Nala and a black Lusitano horse called Recurso (Ric), who are my pride and joy.
I began sailing at an early age with my father at Sunderland Yacht Club and it remains my great passion, particularly the racing. I am a fan of all water sports and am also a keen skier. In quieter moments I enjoy playing the piano.
I have written a number of articles for the sailing press over the years, but have always aspired to write a novel of my own. When events in my own life took a particularly shocking turn, I suddenly found myself with the inspiration to do just that!
How true the saying that everything happens for a reason!
https://www.facebook.com/debbie.twelves
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 10, 2020
5☆ An Engrossing, Twisty, Gripping Read, based on True Events!
Wow this book is one Engrossing and Twisty read. I couldn't put down!
For once I'm not going to write about the plot as the blurb sums it up far better than I can and I don't want to potentially give anything away.
From the opening pages I was hooked it got under my skin and even though it was a shocker of a start it set the tone for what was to come.
This book is based on True Events which is why it makes reading this book even more scary as it literally is a reality and potentially could happen to anyone!
When I delved deeper into this book I was concerned I wasn't going to be able to keep track with the many characters, but once I could see the connections it all made sense!
However there is one constant character and wow oh wow will he get under your skin in more ways than one! He is manipulative, abusive, an abuser, a commitment phobic, but on the other hand he is Charismatic, Charming, loveable and a Fantastic Compulsive Liar and you can see why he charmed so many!
TWENTY YEARS A STRANGER is a Dark, very Twisty, Gritty, Engrossing and at times unsettling read that will not only get under your skin but you are so compelled to keep reading!
There's Secrets, Deceit, Adultery, Lies, Manipulation, Danger everything that keeps you on your toes and I loved it!
I applaud Deborah Twelves for writing her story, it was Poignant, Authentic and Utterly Compelling. A Must Read i highly Recommend!
Thank you to Damppebbles Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
Wow this book is one Engrossing and Twisty read. I couldn't put down!
For once I'm not going to write about the plot as the blurb sums it up far better than I can and I don't want to potentially give anything away.
From the opening pages I was hooked it got under my skin and even though it was a shocker of a start it set the tone for what was to come.
This book is based on True Events which is why it makes reading this book even more scary as it literally is a reality and potentially could happen to anyone!
When I delved deeper into this book I was concerned I wasn't going to be able to keep track with the many characters, but once I could see the connections it all made sense!
However there is one constant character and wow oh wow will he get under your skin in more ways than one! He is manipulative, abusive, an abuser, a commitment phobic, but on the other hand he is Charismatic, Charming, loveable and a Fantastic Compulsive Liar and you can see why he charmed so many!
TWENTY YEARS A STRANGER is a Dark, very Twisty, Gritty, Engrossing and at times unsettling read that will not only get under your skin but you are so compelled to keep reading!
There's Secrets, Deceit, Adultery, Lies, Manipulation, Danger everything that keeps you on your toes and I loved it!
I applaud Deborah Twelves for writing her story, it was Poignant, Authentic and Utterly Compelling. A Must Read i highly Recommend!
Thank you to Damppebbles Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
December 8, 2020
Based on true-life events, Twenty Years A Stranger was one heck of a suspenseful tale which kept me on the edge of my seat with my heart pounding hard at the base of my throat. My introduction to author Deborah Twelves’ writing, especially the first chapter, hit me so hard that you could knock me down with a feather. One of the best chapters ever read, I stopped breathing when I heard the words playing in my mind.
A man (narcissistic and ruthless) + wife (innocent and naïve) + girlfriend (insecure and selfish) + another girlfriend (crafty and cunning) + numerous one night stands + 2 unwanted children + many dalliances + illegal businesses = 23 years. Then one of them got to know the truth and sent an email to the others.
Would he get the comeuppance he deserved?
The book was as real as it could get within the boundaries of a fictional tale. All the characters pulled and pushed at my emotions until I reached the last page. The woman were etched well, each one with a different agenda. Most of the book was told from the POV of wife Grace and girlfriends Lorraine and Jane. The author brought out the female psyche well where the wife blamed the women rather than the man.
But what I especially loved was the way the man Daniel was portrayed. He was icky and as slippery as an eel. The shocks the women received were electrifying (pun intended). And even when the situation was dire, butter wouldn’t melt in his mouth. His belief in his own charm was mind-blowing. And astonishingly, some of them did believe he loved them. I had a gala time hating him.
Oh girls, shatter those rose-tinted glasses. He is an A-hole.
This book did something to my innards. One part of me was ever so glad at having not met a man like Daniel; though one of my boyfriend didn’t return my money and ghosted me. The revengeful heart that beat under my ribcage was filled with anticipation, waiting to read all about Daniel’s day of reckoning.
A gripping debut, though some parts of the prose could be sharper. I didn’t need so many of the extra details and descriptions. I absolutely abhorred the way the wife used cheap names to address the other women rather than Daniel. Some women never learn to lay the blame where it deserves. Nevertheless, the vengeance was all mine when I read about how the women took the power back in their hands. Absolutely satisfying!!
A man (narcissistic and ruthless) + wife (innocent and naïve) + girlfriend (insecure and selfish) + another girlfriend (crafty and cunning) + numerous one night stands + 2 unwanted children + many dalliances + illegal businesses = 23 years. Then one of them got to know the truth and sent an email to the others.
Would he get the comeuppance he deserved?
The book was as real as it could get within the boundaries of a fictional tale. All the characters pulled and pushed at my emotions until I reached the last page. The woman were etched well, each one with a different agenda. Most of the book was told from the POV of wife Grace and girlfriends Lorraine and Jane. The author brought out the female psyche well where the wife blamed the women rather than the man.
But what I especially loved was the way the man Daniel was portrayed. He was icky and as slippery as an eel. The shocks the women received were electrifying (pun intended). And even when the situation was dire, butter wouldn’t melt in his mouth. His belief in his own charm was mind-blowing. And astonishingly, some of them did believe he loved them. I had a gala time hating him.
Oh girls, shatter those rose-tinted glasses. He is an A-hole.
This book did something to my innards. One part of me was ever so glad at having not met a man like Daniel; though one of my boyfriend didn’t return my money and ghosted me. The revengeful heart that beat under my ribcage was filled with anticipation, waiting to read all about Daniel’s day of reckoning.
A gripping debut, though some parts of the prose could be sharper. I didn’t need so many of the extra details and descriptions. I absolutely abhorred the way the wife used cheap names to address the other women rather than Daniel. Some women never learn to lay the blame where it deserves. Nevertheless, the vengeance was all mine when I read about how the women took the power back in their hands. Absolutely satisfying!!
November 10, 2020
Here is an incredible story where fact and fiction blend to perfection, so what I got was a book that went everywhere with me throughout the day until I reached the end. I closed the book and just said three words. OMG!
Grace is the central character in the story she, seems to have everything, a glamorous lifestyle, fabulous holidays, cars and houses, but it all had its price. Daniel worked long hours and had to travel such a lot, leaving her on her own. He had been adamant that he didn’t want children even though Grace had longed for a child.
Grace had been married for twenty years to Daniel when she got an e-mail from another woman. So many things made sense now to her, but one betrayal hit her much harder than the rest. It was game on Grace was determined that she wouldn’t lose everything.
The story has a brilliant build-up with chapters devoted to different prominent characters in the story, their thoughts and that of the ‘man’ in their lives. The women are all very different from each other, some slim, others curvy but the thing they had in common was being compliant in the bedroom. I particularly enjoyed the unpicking of Daniel and what made him tick. I must say here though that some of the images I have created are now firmly fixed in my mind, which are causing random outbursts of laughing.
The story moves to a darker side which made me sit up. What a tremendous build-up there is in this book, the tension grows and grows. Great writing. Awesome ending. Bring on book 2!
Grace is the central character in the story she, seems to have everything, a glamorous lifestyle, fabulous holidays, cars and houses, but it all had its price. Daniel worked long hours and had to travel such a lot, leaving her on her own. He had been adamant that he didn’t want children even though Grace had longed for a child.
Grace had been married for twenty years to Daniel when she got an e-mail from another woman. So many things made sense now to her, but one betrayal hit her much harder than the rest. It was game on Grace was determined that she wouldn’t lose everything.
The story has a brilliant build-up with chapters devoted to different prominent characters in the story, their thoughts and that of the ‘man’ in their lives. The women are all very different from each other, some slim, others curvy but the thing they had in common was being compliant in the bedroom. I particularly enjoyed the unpicking of Daniel and what made him tick. I must say here though that some of the images I have created are now firmly fixed in my mind, which are causing random outbursts of laughing.
The story moves to a darker side which made me sit up. What a tremendous build-up there is in this book, the tension grows and grows. Great writing. Awesome ending. Bring on book 2!
December 6, 2020
Twenty Years a Stranger by Deborah Twelves is a debut novel that is based on true events. What a cracking debut it actually is! The plot centres on Grace King, married for twenty years to Daniel. She receives an email telling her that Daniel is a highly skilled conman living multiple lives with at least four different women and even has children. This stuns Grace who has been told by Daniel he doesn't want any children. That email blows her world apart in the time it takes to read the mail. Everything in her world is based in lies and deceit. Grace decides to find everything out for herself when Daniel begins to start talking about going bankrupt. She plans to try to save herself from financial and emotional ruin if she can. The only problem is will she be able to deal with the end results of her own investigation? Sometimes maybe not knowing is an answer.
Before I give you my thoughts, I have to say that, I really understood what Grace felt. This is a book that resonated with me so deeply I felt everything that Grace went through. I had a marriage for ten years and discoveres after the fact it was all a sham and based in deceit and lies. My truth was and still is hard to face, so I applauded Grace every step of the way in her journey as her world fell at her feet . The question of how much do you really know a person, and how easily you can be fooled is brought in this emotive and powerful story and what you are capable of to break free of the sham you find yourself in.
The plot was so vivid for me I was engulfed in Grace's world so quickly. Deborah Twelves has created characters that are so fully developed that they almost jump of the page to me. Daniel is the epitome of a cruel and disgusting man. His level of deceit and the web of lies he has carefully created are difficult to untangle and as complicated as his life.
A debut that is a dazzling one written so well with a cleverly crafted plot. I am hoping Deborah Twelves will bring us another book sometime soon as I love the way she brings such a emotive and enthralling read.
Thanks to Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Deborah Twelves for the copy of the book for my review today.
Before I give you my thoughts, I have to say that, I really understood what Grace felt. This is a book that resonated with me so deeply I felt everything that Grace went through. I had a marriage for ten years and discoveres after the fact it was all a sham and based in deceit and lies. My truth was and still is hard to face, so I applauded Grace every step of the way in her journey as her world fell at her feet . The question of how much do you really know a person, and how easily you can be fooled is brought in this emotive and powerful story and what you are capable of to break free of the sham you find yourself in.
The plot was so vivid for me I was engulfed in Grace's world so quickly. Deborah Twelves has created characters that are so fully developed that they almost jump of the page to me. Daniel is the epitome of a cruel and disgusting man. His level of deceit and the web of lies he has carefully created are difficult to untangle and as complicated as his life.
A debut that is a dazzling one written so well with a cleverly crafted plot. I am hoping Deborah Twelves will bring us another book sometime soon as I love the way she brings such a emotive and enthralling read.
Thanks to Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Deborah Twelves for the copy of the book for my review today.
September 19, 2020
A fast paced novel written by a previous work colleague of mine.
Unable to put this book down, I couldnt read the pages fast enough in order to get to the next. All through I kept thinking things like OMG and wow, and how much more do you have to endure. Now I'll have to sit patiently awaiting Book 2.
Deborah Twelves you really are amazing x
Unable to put this book down, I couldnt read the pages fast enough in order to get to the next. All through I kept thinking things like OMG and wow, and how much more do you have to endure. Now I'll have to sit patiently awaiting Book 2.
Deborah Twelves you really are amazing x
July 7, 2025
Can’t wait to meet the author next week so my stats are biased, increíble true story I have so so many questions
October 9, 2020
“ Lies do not erase the truth, they simply delay it’s discovery”
One complex plot to keep the grey matter alive and wonder- how on earth? Julia having lost a baby and subjected to gaslighting can’t take any more and kills herself. Grace is married to Daniel and they both love sailing. He works hard being self employed and is away a lot of the time. Lorraine has just got her decree absolute from her “spineless, devious, little creep” of a now ex- husband. Jane has not long lost her husband and met Matthew who is “as far removed from Brian as was possible”. She discovered that Matthew was married early on as he said very little about his personal life which was a huge giveaway. As Daniel racks up more and more debt in order to put money into the business so Grace becomes worried as some of it was her inheritance. Any discussion usually leads to lavish gifts for her- a horse, a car, an exotic holiday. Jane becomes deliberately pregnant-something Matthew was vehemently against. After Daniel has an accident, an email is received and Grace sets out to find out more about the stranger she has been married to for twenty years. A tale of multiple lives and woven threads with some very meaningful introductions to each chapter.
Oh my life! Although fiction I understand that some of this is based on truth and we have all heard about men leading multiple lives. Whilst I felt for Grace (who takes up most of the story) I felt that they all had one thing in common- greed- all that mattered to them was materialistic until the s***t hit the proverbial. Anyone who has come across or had to deal with a narcissist or sociopath (the book explains these) as a close relation knows the untold damage that they are capable of. Never underestimate the power of the mind. A brilliantly clever plot, well written and one to ponder on. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
One complex plot to keep the grey matter alive and wonder- how on earth? Julia having lost a baby and subjected to gaslighting can’t take any more and kills herself. Grace is married to Daniel and they both love sailing. He works hard being self employed and is away a lot of the time. Lorraine has just got her decree absolute from her “spineless, devious, little creep” of a now ex- husband. Jane has not long lost her husband and met Matthew who is “as far removed from Brian as was possible”. She discovered that Matthew was married early on as he said very little about his personal life which was a huge giveaway. As Daniel racks up more and more debt in order to put money into the business so Grace becomes worried as some of it was her inheritance. Any discussion usually leads to lavish gifts for her- a horse, a car, an exotic holiday. Jane becomes deliberately pregnant-something Matthew was vehemently against. After Daniel has an accident, an email is received and Grace sets out to find out more about the stranger she has been married to for twenty years. A tale of multiple lives and woven threads with some very meaningful introductions to each chapter.
Oh my life! Although fiction I understand that some of this is based on truth and we have all heard about men leading multiple lives. Whilst I felt for Grace (who takes up most of the story) I felt that they all had one thing in common- greed- all that mattered to them was materialistic until the s***t hit the proverbial. Anyone who has come across or had to deal with a narcissist or sociopath (the book explains these) as a close relation knows the untold damage that they are capable of. Never underestimate the power of the mind. A brilliantly clever plot, well written and one to ponder on. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
October 4, 2020
Based on astonishing true life events, this book takes you through the ever changing life of Grace and her shocking discoveries. The man she married, it turns out has been living quite the double life and has weaved a terrible web of lies that is starting to unravel before his eyes.
Never cross a woman scorned has never rang so true! An email sent by a scorned woman is the catalyst of Daniel's downfall. How many women is he involved with? What other secrets and lies has he been keeping from Grace? What will Grace do next?
It’s fast moving, easy to read and definitely most enjoyable.
Different chapters are told from other people's perspectives so we get to see just how much of a mess Daniel is really in and how many women he has hurt in the process.
Revenge is a dish best served cold - but will Daniel get his just desserts?
I can’t wait for the next in The Stranger series.
Never cross a woman scorned has never rang so true! An email sent by a scorned woman is the catalyst of Daniel's downfall. How many women is he involved with? What other secrets and lies has he been keeping from Grace? What will Grace do next?
It’s fast moving, easy to read and definitely most enjoyable.
Different chapters are told from other people's perspectives so we get to see just how much of a mess Daniel is really in and how many women he has hurt in the process.
Revenge is a dish best served cold - but will Daniel get his just desserts?
I can’t wait for the next in The Stranger series.
July 29, 2020
Totally gripping with twists and turns
Fantastic and gripping with twists and turns, i could not put it down and felt the pain and torture that was revealed throughout the rollercoaster life
Fantastic and gripping with twists and turns, i could not put it down and felt the pain and torture that was revealed throughout the rollercoaster life
July 29, 2020
A fantastic read
Loved the pace,the storyline and characters are so believable. Read it in 24 hours and I haven’t done that with a book for a very long time. Congratulations I would recommend to all.
Loved the pace,the storyline and characters are so believable. Read it in 24 hours and I haven’t done that with a book for a very long time. Congratulations I would recommend to all.
December 21, 2020
I'm not sure how much of this book is based on true events, but wow, that's a messed up story! And the shaming?? Come on!
In short its about a woman, Grace, and several other women who are all, unbeknownst to themselves, dating/married to/in a relationship with the same man. Somehow this takes 20 years to uncover, although I feel like there should have been some signs on the way! Somehow this monster, narcissist and sociopath of a man, because that is how he is portrayed, manage to fool many women simultaneously for years and years. There's a few telltale signs, one is that he gets very angry when the subject of children is brought up. I honestly feel like that may have been one of his less selfish sides, as he probably realised at some level that he wasn't cut out to be a father! It seemed he didn't trap anyone in relationships with him, so anyone was free to leave and make a family elsewhere.
Here are my problems with the story.
-It gets a bit repetive. Some sentences I probably read 10 times with slight variations.
-All the women except Grace have horrible flaws apparently, making it clear you're supposed to side with Grace. She is described as beautiful, very fit and basically flawless. Its also stated repeatedly how she makes her own money, yet she really wants to get her hands on her husbands (illegal?) fortune and doesn't seem to care if his kids, innocent victims of the whole mess, inherit anything. Of a fortune... ...
-Umh.. The overall shaming of women? The fat-shaming is extreme. One woman, who has a LOT of other flaws, for example the fact that she supposedly is an attempted murderer??, is consistently described as "the whale" and the graceful Grace is taking jabs at her weight and appearance while praising her own chapter after chapter. I mean, I get a few comments from a woman scorned, but this was extreme. Another woman, from the US, is described solely by her unpalatable appearance.
-Weird layout of the story. You start reading chapters from several women's standpoint and then it just drops off to only Grace, Grace, Grace, who, btw, is not as likable as the author probably wants her to come off as.
I don't know if this is autobiographical, but seeing that the author, like Grace, seems to also have a horse, a black labrador and a love of sailing it comes off more as a revenge letter of a scorned ex-wife than a book. A revenge letter with the core message of saying how she wishes she could have killed her ex-husband and how fat and ugly the other women were (whether they too were victims of the same man's deceit seemed to have no mitigating effect)..
In short its about a woman, Grace, and several other women who are all, unbeknownst to themselves, dating/married to/in a relationship with the same man. Somehow this takes 20 years to uncover, although I feel like there should have been some signs on the way! Somehow this monster, narcissist and sociopath of a man, because that is how he is portrayed, manage to fool many women simultaneously for years and years. There's a few telltale signs, one is that he gets very angry when the subject of children is brought up. I honestly feel like that may have been one of his less selfish sides, as he probably realised at some level that he wasn't cut out to be a father! It seemed he didn't trap anyone in relationships with him, so anyone was free to leave and make a family elsewhere.
Here are my problems with the story.
-It gets a bit repetive. Some sentences I probably read 10 times with slight variations.
-All the women except Grace have horrible flaws apparently, making it clear you're supposed to side with Grace. She is described as beautiful, very fit and basically flawless. Its also stated repeatedly how she makes her own money, yet she really wants to get her hands on her husbands (illegal?) fortune and doesn't seem to care if his kids, innocent victims of the whole mess, inherit anything. Of a fortune... ...
-Umh.. The overall shaming of women? The fat-shaming is extreme. One woman, who has a LOT of other flaws, for example the fact that she supposedly is an attempted murderer??, is consistently described as "the whale" and the graceful Grace is taking jabs at her weight and appearance while praising her own chapter after chapter. I mean, I get a few comments from a woman scorned, but this was extreme. Another woman, from the US, is described solely by her unpalatable appearance.
-Weird layout of the story. You start reading chapters from several women's standpoint and then it just drops off to only Grace, Grace, Grace, who, btw, is not as likable as the author probably wants her to come off as.
I don't know if this is autobiographical, but seeing that the author, like Grace, seems to also have a horse, a black labrador and a love of sailing it comes off more as a revenge letter of a scorned ex-wife than a book. A revenge letter with the core message of saying how she wishes she could have killed her ex-husband and how fat and ugly the other women were (whether they too were victims of the same man's deceit seemed to have no mitigating effect)..
December 22, 2020
Twenty Years a Stranger is the debut novel by Deborah Twelves, a dark thriller based on real events from the author’s life. It largely follows Grace, married to Daniel, and two of the women he’s been engaging in long-term affairs with. When the truth comes out about his multiple lives, the women he’s been involved with have to decide how to handle the revelation. And Daniel has to figure out how far he’s prepared to go to sustain the life he’s constructed for himself.
While Grace is clearly the protagonist, we spend a lot of time with two of Daniel’s ‘other women’. Lorraine, who was just divorced when she came across an elusive stranger on a dating app. And Jane, recently widowed, who knew Daniel was married from pretty early on and set out to ‘win’ him anyway. All three women have very distinct characterisation throughout the story, which I appreciated.
None of them are particularly sympathetic; the novel presents an extensive look at the most unpleasant parts of everybody’s personality. At the same time, you can’t help but feel for them – particularly Grace – as they learn the full extent of the lies they’ve been told. Despite that, it’s hard to really root for anybody in the novel, and not just due to their personalities.
There was a definite emphasis on telling over showing in the narrative. This allowed for the covering of long periods of time in just a few paragraphs. On the other hand, it made it hard to feel attached to the characters or plot at some points. I wanted to see the build-up to a tense conversation! I wanted to read how Grace broached the difficult subject, see the change in Daniel’s expression as his mood turned. What that looked like in the book was: “Daniel did not react well when I confronted him about what Frieda had told me and predictably turned the tables on me about snooping behind his back.”
It was a very efficient way of telling the story, which obviously has its advantages! But I think it sacrificed a lot of the tension and emotional investment that we could have otherwise had.
Twenty Years a Stranger manages to take a deeply untidy situation and tell it very neatly. It’s interesting to watch the situation unfold from a range of perspectives, despite largely following Grace as she tries to navigate her husband’s deception. Full of highly distinctive characters, the story unfolds through twists and turns. Providing a compelling portrait of a relationship with a pathological liar, Twenty Years a Stranger may not be an easy read, but it’s certainly an intriguing one.
While Grace is clearly the protagonist, we spend a lot of time with two of Daniel’s ‘other women’. Lorraine, who was just divorced when she came across an elusive stranger on a dating app. And Jane, recently widowed, who knew Daniel was married from pretty early on and set out to ‘win’ him anyway. All three women have very distinct characterisation throughout the story, which I appreciated.
None of them are particularly sympathetic; the novel presents an extensive look at the most unpleasant parts of everybody’s personality. At the same time, you can’t help but feel for them – particularly Grace – as they learn the full extent of the lies they’ve been told. Despite that, it’s hard to really root for anybody in the novel, and not just due to their personalities.
There was a definite emphasis on telling over showing in the narrative. This allowed for the covering of long periods of time in just a few paragraphs. On the other hand, it made it hard to feel attached to the characters or plot at some points. I wanted to see the build-up to a tense conversation! I wanted to read how Grace broached the difficult subject, see the change in Daniel’s expression as his mood turned. What that looked like in the book was: “Daniel did not react well when I confronted him about what Frieda had told me and predictably turned the tables on me about snooping behind his back.”
It was a very efficient way of telling the story, which obviously has its advantages! But I think it sacrificed a lot of the tension and emotional investment that we could have otherwise had.
Twenty Years a Stranger manages to take a deeply untidy situation and tell it very neatly. It’s interesting to watch the situation unfold from a range of perspectives, despite largely following Grace as she tries to navigate her husband’s deception. Full of highly distinctive characters, the story unfolds through twists and turns. Providing a compelling portrait of a relationship with a pathological liar, Twenty Years a Stranger may not be an easy read, but it’s certainly an intriguing one.
January 22, 2021
Grace’s world comes crashing down when she receives an email informing her that her husband of twenty years, Daniel, is not who he claims to be. He is in a relationship with several women and has fathered children with at least two of them. However, when Grace had insisted on having children, he had vehemently denied starting a family.
What Grace does after learning this bitter truth and how she copes with her husband’s betrayal makes for a compelling read in the form of Twenty Years a Stranger. It is a gripping thriller from the start to finish.
The book offers the perspectives of several of the women Daniel dates or is in a relationship with, however, Grace is the central character. It also provides a glimpse into Daniel’s psyche. While the rest of the characters’ POVs are in the third person, Grace’s narrative is told in the first person. This results in a memoir-styled thriller.
This coupled with short chapters and a brisk pace helped me finish the book in a few days.
Though the cards are dealt with early in the book, it is the anticipation of whether Daniel will suffer the consequences of his actions that makes Twenty Years a Stranger a riveting read. The book shines a light on a pertinent yet often overlooked topic: gaslighting. It also highlights the untold damage done by psychopaths on the lives of unsuspecting people. Further, it also shows how such white-collar criminals take advantage of the loopholes in the legal system. What is more tragic is that the justice system lets them do so, thanks to red-tape and bureaucracy.
“Never confuse justice with law. Justice is an ideal, seldom attained by the tools of the law.”
Twenty Years a Stranger by Deborah Twelves
Fact is stranger than fiction. It’s hard to believe the book is based on real-life events, however, after finishing the book, I had no option but to believe that these deranged individuals do exist.
To top it all, the book has one hell of an ending.
Twenty Years a Stranger by Deborah Twelves is a well-written although harrowing psychological thriller shedding light on how a narcissist and/or a psychopath dangerously toys with the lives of innocent people.
What Grace does after learning this bitter truth and how she copes with her husband’s betrayal makes for a compelling read in the form of Twenty Years a Stranger. It is a gripping thriller from the start to finish.
The book offers the perspectives of several of the women Daniel dates or is in a relationship with, however, Grace is the central character. It also provides a glimpse into Daniel’s psyche. While the rest of the characters’ POVs are in the third person, Grace’s narrative is told in the first person. This results in a memoir-styled thriller.
This coupled with short chapters and a brisk pace helped me finish the book in a few days.
Though the cards are dealt with early in the book, it is the anticipation of whether Daniel will suffer the consequences of his actions that makes Twenty Years a Stranger a riveting read. The book shines a light on a pertinent yet often overlooked topic: gaslighting. It also highlights the untold damage done by psychopaths on the lives of unsuspecting people. Further, it also shows how such white-collar criminals take advantage of the loopholes in the legal system. What is more tragic is that the justice system lets them do so, thanks to red-tape and bureaucracy.
“Never confuse justice with law. Justice is an ideal, seldom attained by the tools of the law.”
Twenty Years a Stranger by Deborah Twelves
Fact is stranger than fiction. It’s hard to believe the book is based on real-life events, however, after finishing the book, I had no option but to believe that these deranged individuals do exist.
To top it all, the book has one hell of an ending.
Twenty Years a Stranger by Deborah Twelves is a well-written although harrowing psychological thriller shedding light on how a narcissist and/or a psychopath dangerously toys with the lives of innocent people.
December 31, 2020
Deborah Twelves has done something spectacular with Twenty Years a Stranger. She has taken real-life events and turned them into one of the best thrillers I’ve read this year. Just when I thought there couldn’t possibly be any story left to tell, she drops another bomb and drags me right back in.
The sheer audacity of this antagonist is astonishing. I hated him from his very first introduction. How he can go on to become even more appalling, I have no idea, but he manages it. Though, to be honest, his lady friend is as despicable, if not more so, than Daniel.
There are some real pieces of work in this book, and my emotions were all over the place. Between anger, frustration, and sadness, I was an emotional wreck. I never knew which way the tale was going to lead me next, and that is what makes for a great thriller.
Can we talk about the ending? Whoa, boy, is the end a doozy! I didn’t see it coming at all, but it was thrilling. Knowing that this is a series frightens me a bit because I don’t know how much more these characters can take. But, I am excited to find out and will be first in line for the next volume.
This book entertained me to no end. So, I am confident in awarding 5 out of 5 stars to Twenty Years a Stranger. If you love thrillers, especially ones that tell a story based on true events, you will devour this novel. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to Emma at Damppebbles Blog Tours, Deborah Twelves, and Fortis Publishing for providing me with a digital copy of Twenty Years a Stranger in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
The sheer audacity of this antagonist is astonishing. I hated him from his very first introduction. How he can go on to become even more appalling, I have no idea, but he manages it. Though, to be honest, his lady friend is as despicable, if not more so, than Daniel.
There are some real pieces of work in this book, and my emotions were all over the place. Between anger, frustration, and sadness, I was an emotional wreck. I never knew which way the tale was going to lead me next, and that is what makes for a great thriller.
Can we talk about the ending? Whoa, boy, is the end a doozy! I didn’t see it coming at all, but it was thrilling. Knowing that this is a series frightens me a bit because I don’t know how much more these characters can take. But, I am excited to find out and will be first in line for the next volume.
This book entertained me to no end. So, I am confident in awarding 5 out of 5 stars to Twenty Years a Stranger. If you love thrillers, especially ones that tell a story based on true events, you will devour this novel. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to Emma at Damppebbles Blog Tours, Deborah Twelves, and Fortis Publishing for providing me with a digital copy of Twenty Years a Stranger in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
April 1, 2021
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it was an epic story with excellent examples of gaslighting that highlighted both the vulnerability and the resilience of women. On the other hand, the male character was so vile that I had a difficult time with him. The story is told mainly from the perspective of Grace. But she receives an email that lets her know that her husband isn’t who she thinks he is. I thought that there were moments where the prose got away from the author. There is such a thing as too much description. I understand that this was both based on a true story and the first in a series. It will certainly be interesting to see how the author follows up. For a full review, please see Fireflies and Free Kicks. Thank you to Damp Pebbles for a digital ARC of this book.
December 6, 2020
This was such a page-turner! I enjoyed it so much and just couldn't believe how crazy Brian or whatever name he gave was. Each chapter started with a saying which I absolutely loved and I just enjoyed the whole book. You get to know the women involved from the time they meet the main guy up to having spent years being in a relationship with him. You get to know them and sympathise with them.
I'm really looking forward to reading the sequel because, damn that cliff hanger!
I'm really looking forward to reading the sequel because, damn that cliff hanger!
August 3, 2020
Properly spell binding
August 8, 2020
A good but hard book to read because of the subject matter
August 10, 2020
Absolutely incredible book. So moving and heartbreaking, cannot believe it’s based on a true story! Recommended to me by a friend and I finished it in 24 hours!!
September 5, 2020
Loved it!
Kept me gripped right until the end. A tale of total inner strength to fight for a life of truth. Eye opener!
Kept me gripped right until the end. A tale of total inner strength to fight for a life of truth. Eye opener!
June 28, 2021
How a wvoman can live with such a vile man and not know about his other life is beyond me. Baffled. Not a book I would recommend to my fr iends
December 20, 2022
A stunning and jaw dropping read, based on a true story.
August 11, 2025
yep enjoy that!! the lives some people live out are just unreal!
November 23, 2020
Recommend this book👍
September 29, 2020
Fabulous! I couldn’t put it down!
Based on astonishing true life events, this book takes you through the ever changing life of Grace and her shocking discoveries. It’s fast moving, easy to read and definitely most enjoyable. Can’t wait for the next in The Stranger series- hope you’ve nearly finished writing it Deborah
Based on astonishing true life events, this book takes you through the ever changing life of Grace and her shocking discoveries. It’s fast moving, easy to read and definitely most enjoyable. Can’t wait for the next in The Stranger series- hope you’ve nearly finished writing it Deborah
January 31, 2024
I have always recommended this book. My Godparents were briefly mentioned in the story so gifted us Debbie's book one Christmas & I couldn't put it down. It's based on a true story, and the plot had many shocking twists.
Whilst some reviews commented on how the deception of the primary antagonist stayed hidden for so long, i feel it has been made fairly clear in the book how calculated he was in regards to the main deception, and the financial fraud.
I need to address the body shaming of the women involved in the story. Unless it can demonstrate an opportunity for character growth, i dont feel it was necessary and these jabs made for uncomfortable reading.
Regarding the nuance of the situation however, I can understand the visceral reaction from the MC, and would be extremely surprised if anyone in this situation could react in a calm, collected manner. Her life was instantaneously turned upside down, after devoting so many years to her partner.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing how the characters develop.
Whilst some reviews commented on how the deception of the primary antagonist stayed hidden for so long, i feel it has been made fairly clear in the book how calculated he was in regards to the main deception, and the financial fraud.
I need to address the body shaming of the women involved in the story. Unless it can demonstrate an opportunity for character growth, i dont feel it was necessary and these jabs made for uncomfortable reading.
Regarding the nuance of the situation however, I can understand the visceral reaction from the MC, and would be extremely surprised if anyone in this situation could react in a calm, collected manner. Her life was instantaneously turned upside down, after devoting so many years to her partner.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing how the characters develop.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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