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Maternal Instincts #1
The Delivery
From USA Today Bestseller L.A. Detwiler comes a brand-new chilling domestic thriller that will hook you from page one.
Evette Harding's world of maternal bliss is perfect except for one thing: there’s something wrong with her husband.
John is a lawyer and loving husband by day. However, ever since the baby came, his dark habits from the past are re-emerging. Once, she was fine with playing Bonnie to his Clyde. Now, with the baby to think about, it terrifies her.
As she delves into his hidden life and dangerous lies, she begins to fear for her safety. But when maternal instincts creep over the line of paranoia, will she go too far to protect her child? And in a house full of dark secrets, will she solve the most important one before it is too late?
The Delivery is a dark, page-turner of a domestic thriller with a jaw-dropping twist.
Evette Harding's world of maternal bliss is perfect except for one thing: there’s something wrong with her husband.
John is a lawyer and loving husband by day. However, ever since the baby came, his dark habits from the past are re-emerging. Once, she was fine with playing Bonnie to his Clyde. Now, with the baby to think about, it terrifies her.
As she delves into his hidden life and dangerous lies, she begins to fear for her safety. But when maternal instincts creep over the line of paranoia, will she go too far to protect her child? And in a house full of dark secrets, will she solve the most important one before it is too late?
The Delivery is a dark, page-turner of a domestic thriller with a jaw-dropping twist.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2022
14 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Detwiler
29 books302 followersL.A. Detwiler is the USA TODAY Bestselling thriller author of The Widow Next Door with HarperCollins UK and several other chilling page-turners. Her novel The Diary of a Serial Killer's Daughter was awarded the bronze medal for thrillers by Readers' Favorite and also translated into Polish. Her novels are noted for their dark, emotional depth and realistic portrayals of haunting topics.
During her final year at Mount Aloysius College, she started writing her first fiction novel, Voice of Innocence, which was published in 2015. She has numerous sweet romances published under Lindsay Detwiler. She has also written articles that have appeared in several women’s publications and websites.
L.A. Detwiler is a high school business teacher and writer in her hometown of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. She taught high school English for ten years and also was an adjunct professor. She lives in her hometown with her husband, Chad. They have six cats and a Great Dane named Edmund (He appears in all of her current works; her late mastiff, Henry, is in the earlier novels). When she isn't training Edmund or writing, she is usually rewatching Outlander, drinking coffee, or buying makeup.
Connect with L.A. Detwiler on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok @ladetwiler
During her final year at Mount Aloysius College, she started writing her first fiction novel, Voice of Innocence, which was published in 2015. She has numerous sweet romances published under Lindsay Detwiler. She has also written articles that have appeared in several women’s publications and websites.
L.A. Detwiler is a high school business teacher and writer in her hometown of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. She taught high school English for ten years and also was an adjunct professor. She lives in her hometown with her husband, Chad. They have six cats and a Great Dane named Edmund (He appears in all of her current works; her late mastiff, Henry, is in the earlier novels). When she isn't training Edmund or writing, she is usually rewatching Outlander, drinking coffee, or buying makeup.
Connect with L.A. Detwiler on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok @ladetwiler
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
January 2, 2022
This book didn’t do it for me, I didn’t like any of the characters, especially Evette. The plot made no sense for most of the book. When I figured out the truth, it was an after thought. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the early copy.
December 7, 2021
I thought this book dragged a lot. It was interesting in spots, however I found myself losing interest and struggled to finish it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc.
January 17, 2022
Published: February 1, 2022
Pages: 216
Genre: Thriller
KKECReads Rating: 5/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
L.A. Detwiler is the USA TODAY Bestselling thriller author of The Widow Next Door and several other chilling page-turners. She is also a high school English teacher from Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania.
During her final year at Mount Aloysius College, she started writing her first fiction novel, which was published in 2015. She has also written articles that have appeared in several women’s publications and websites. L.A. Detwiler lives in her hometown with her husband, Chad. They have five cats and a mastiff named Henry.
“Things are never perfect.”
Evette has had a chaotic life, her father went to prison for murder when she was young, and her mother was bitter. All Evette has ever wanted was a family, to be a mom. So when she meets John one night at a bar, a terrifying series of events permanently connects them. As their lives continue, and they start checking things off the together forever list- everything changes with the delivery.
Whew. This was a wicked descent into madness. The heavy topic of mental illness, childhood trauma, infertility, suicide, the themes in this novel are heavy and may not be appropriate for all readers. Trigger warning.
This was a slow burn, but it was so jam-packed with twists and turned that you are hooked from the beginning. The storyline is told cleverly, with the past mixed in occasionally. It’s very Alice down the rabbit hole.
Evette wants to be a good mom. It’s all she ever wants out of life, and she thinks she has the foundation ready with her husband, John. He is an attorney, a powerful man. A secretive man. Possibly a dangerous man.
We get the story from Evette’s perspective, which was so well executed. Evette struggles with mental illness. She gets severe bouts of depression. And when a harsh life sentence is handed down, John worries Evette won’t be able to process it.
Evette feels like she is alone. She has no one, and her isolation makes her desperate. Her desperation is palpable. You can feel her anxiety and her desire to escape.
You feel every tense moment as this story continues, and when the final chapter happens- you feel the sharp slap of reality. The twist in this novel was very well done, and the plot was unique.
What would you do for love?
Pages: 216
Genre: Thriller
KKECReads Rating: 5/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
L.A. Detwiler is the USA TODAY Bestselling thriller author of The Widow Next Door and several other chilling page-turners. She is also a high school English teacher from Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania.
During her final year at Mount Aloysius College, she started writing her first fiction novel, which was published in 2015. She has also written articles that have appeared in several women’s publications and websites. L.A. Detwiler lives in her hometown with her husband, Chad. They have five cats and a mastiff named Henry.
“Things are never perfect.”
Evette has had a chaotic life, her father went to prison for murder when she was young, and her mother was bitter. All Evette has ever wanted was a family, to be a mom. So when she meets John one night at a bar, a terrifying series of events permanently connects them. As their lives continue, and they start checking things off the together forever list- everything changes with the delivery.
Whew. This was a wicked descent into madness. The heavy topic of mental illness, childhood trauma, infertility, suicide, the themes in this novel are heavy and may not be appropriate for all readers. Trigger warning.
This was a slow burn, but it was so jam-packed with twists and turned that you are hooked from the beginning. The storyline is told cleverly, with the past mixed in occasionally. It’s very Alice down the rabbit hole.
Evette wants to be a good mom. It’s all she ever wants out of life, and she thinks she has the foundation ready with her husband, John. He is an attorney, a powerful man. A secretive man. Possibly a dangerous man.
We get the story from Evette’s perspective, which was so well executed. Evette struggles with mental illness. She gets severe bouts of depression. And when a harsh life sentence is handed down, John worries Evette won’t be able to process it.
Evette feels like she is alone. She has no one, and her isolation makes her desperate. Her desperation is palpable. You can feel her anxiety and her desire to escape.
You feel every tense moment as this story continues, and when the final chapter happens- you feel the sharp slap of reality. The twist in this novel was very well done, and the plot was unique.
What would you do for love?
December 8, 2021
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHER FOR THIS REVIEW COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
Evette and John are a loving couple but after the birth of their daughter, their relation is not the same. Evette wants to make everything right between them but she also has to take care of their daughter for whom she had left her career. Evette knows there is something wrong with John but what?
Just right from the first page, this book gave me vibes of YOU and I wasn't that wrong. The storyline was twisted and the plot was emotion-driven. I would have liked it more if we'll get to know the PoV of John too. The story was so layered told in a clever way. But the point is did I LOVE it? No. It was dragged, slow, and predictable. I connected with character or Evette but after a while, I lost the connection and also guessed the BIG twist, so it was just an okayish read for me.
Evette and John are a loving couple but after the birth of their daughter, their relation is not the same. Evette wants to make everything right between them but she also has to take care of their daughter for whom she had left her career. Evette knows there is something wrong with John but what?
Just right from the first page, this book gave me vibes of YOU and I wasn't that wrong. The storyline was twisted and the plot was emotion-driven. I would have liked it more if we'll get to know the PoV of John too. The story was so layered told in a clever way. But the point is did I LOVE it? No. It was dragged, slow, and predictable. I connected with character or Evette but after a while, I lost the connection and also guessed the BIG twist, so it was just an okayish read for me.
November 8, 2021
It’s the story of a couple from the beginning of love to the collapse. From the perspective and narration of the wife, we can follow the events, we have to believe that what she feels and what she thinks is real, that her actions have meaning and reason. While we suspect that it’s not the reality we see, that there’s a twist in the story that makes it understandable. I say, we know this, just like when on the front pages of a crime we already know who the killer is, but we continue to read the book because we are curious about what led to the murder being committed. In this novel, too, we know what’s behind the events, the exciting way to find out what are the reasons that lead to the collapse. This road is excruciating, long and dark. For us, too, it’s a bit long, we often feel it is repetitive and a little boring. Yet, every word and sentence is needed to know the loneliness and darkness of Evette’s soul. I read the book overnight, which means it’s almost impossible to put it down. Still, I’m not saying the book is perfect or that I’m completely happy with the story. Maybe not because we also need to see and know the other side, the husband’s thoughts and the reasons for his actions, to get a full picture of what is happening. That’s why I’m looking forward to the author’s next book, which is the story of John, the husband.
Thanks to Netgalley and the Xpresso Book Tour for the opportunity to read the book.
Thanks to Netgalley and the Xpresso Book Tour for the opportunity to read the book.
January 1, 2022
This book was absolutely incredible. I was hooked from the very beginning. The ending was a complete shock, I definitely did not see that coming. I would highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
February 2, 2022
Evette Harding's world of maternal bliss is perfect except for one thing: there’s something wrong with her husband.
John is a lawyer and loving husband by day. However, ever since the baby came, his dark habits from the past are re-emerging. Once, she was fine with playing Bonnie to his Clyde. Now, with the baby to think about, it terrifies her.
As she delves into his hidden life and dangerous lies, she begins to fear for her safety. But when maternal instincts creep over the line of paranoia, will she go too far to protect her child? And in a house full of dark secrets, will she solve the most important one before it is too late?
This is an amazing read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
John is a lawyer and loving husband by day. However, ever since the baby came, his dark habits from the past are re-emerging. Once, she was fine with playing Bonnie to his Clyde. Now, with the baby to think about, it terrifies her.
As she delves into his hidden life and dangerous lies, she begins to fear for her safety. But when maternal instincts creep over the line of paranoia, will she go too far to protect her child? And in a house full of dark secrets, will she solve the most important one before it is too late?
This is an amazing read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
December 19, 2021
L.A. Detwiler has done it again… From the very first page I was hooked and stayed up way too late so I could keep reading.
.
Evette and John's relationship began under dark & twisty circumstances, but it brought them together quickly and they married three months later.
.
Evette wants to be a mother more than anything, but this dream turns out to me more challenging than expected. After many ups and downs, she finally has her "miracle baby". She thought her and John would grow even closer together now that they had their little family, but he is keeping secrets and perhaps isn't the man Evette thought she married.
.
I don't want to say much more and ruin the story for you, but this one will definitely have you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what exactly is going on.
.
I did figure things out a little before the end, but that didn't stop me from wanting to devour the last couple chapters. I am so excited that this is a series. I can't wait to read book 2!
.
A special thank you to the author for sending me an advanced copy of this book.
.
Evette and John's relationship began under dark & twisty circumstances, but it brought them together quickly and they married three months later.
.
Evette wants to be a mother more than anything, but this dream turns out to me more challenging than expected. After many ups and downs, she finally has her "miracle baby". She thought her and John would grow even closer together now that they had their little family, but he is keeping secrets and perhaps isn't the man Evette thought she married.
.
I don't want to say much more and ruin the story for you, but this one will definitely have you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what exactly is going on.
.
I did figure things out a little before the end, but that didn't stop me from wanting to devour the last couple chapters. I am so excited that this is a series. I can't wait to read book 2!
.
A special thank you to the author for sending me an advanced copy of this book.
January 30, 2022
It took me a while to get to grips with this book, and feel like I could gel with the main character Evette, but once I did, I enjoyed this book a lot and seemed to whizz through it.
Easy to read, and although I did guess the twist, I still enjoyed the book and will definitely look out for part 2 when it comes out.
All in all 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Easy to read, and although I did guess the twist, I still enjoyed the book and will definitely look out for part 2 when it comes out.
All in all 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Read
June 21, 2022
Trigger & Content Warnings
Infertility
Infertility
October 3, 2021
Anyone who reads this book will quickly see why L.A. Detwiler is my absolute favorite author. Her story lines are simple yet complex, full of intrigue and drama, without being over the top. The characters are scarily believable and she weaves you into their world in a seamless and perfect way, every single time.
In this one, we follow John and Evette and the emotions that follow life before, during, and after a baby. Huge emotions that so many are scared to go after. Detwiler goes after these in such a perfect way. She draws you into the heart of Evette and soon, you can feel yourself feeling every emotion with her. The pain, sorrow, longing, confusion, and most of all love.
You want to hate John but at the end, you realize that you can't, and yet, you can't hate Evette either. The story is woven in such a masterful way that you find yourself not breathing until the next line, next chapter, your breath being held hostage until the story allows you to let it go.
Detwiler never disappoints. Ever. I forced myself to read this in chunks (after reading 60% on day 1 LOL)
Seriously, if you can, take the day off, curl up with your coffee, blankie, and whatever else you need, then shut the world off and dive into this one. Trust me, once you start it, you will not want to put it down.
In this one, we follow John and Evette and the emotions that follow life before, during, and after a baby. Huge emotions that so many are scared to go after. Detwiler goes after these in such a perfect way. She draws you into the heart of Evette and soon, you can feel yourself feeling every emotion with her. The pain, sorrow, longing, confusion, and most of all love.
You want to hate John but at the end, you realize that you can't, and yet, you can't hate Evette either. The story is woven in such a masterful way that you find yourself not breathing until the next line, next chapter, your breath being held hostage until the story allows you to let it go.
Detwiler never disappoints. Ever. I forced myself to read this in chunks (after reading 60% on day 1 LOL)
Seriously, if you can, take the day off, curl up with your coffee, blankie, and whatever else you need, then shut the world off and dive into this one. Trust me, once you start it, you will not want to put it down.
December 19, 2021
My wife and I have a favourite local Indian restaurant. That’s ‘favourite’ to the extent that we’re known by name to most of the waiters and greeted like old friends whenever we drop in because we know that eating their food is so much less effort than trying to cook our own, and that it tastes so much nicer.
There are a range of chef’s signature dishes, all of which are lovely. But their jaipuri – a Bangladeshi dish – is to die for. When ordered with some rice and naan breads on the side, a couple of poppadoms each whilst we’re waiting for it to be cooked and all washed down with a pint or two of Cobra, the effect is to leave us feeling thoroughly satisfied. As well as so pleasantly full that the dessert menu is inevitably passed over with a polite smile.
A problem? Not at all. Because once, we did try desserts and they were a real disappointment. In stark contrast to the main courses, which are lovingly cooked and prepared on the premises, these were all too obviously shop-bought. Had we bought them ourselves in a supermarket for a quid or so, they’d have been OK. But it simply wasn’t worth paying more than five times that amount to have someone else serve them up in a dish on our behalf.
Ultimately, however, this is fine. We know now that if we go to our favourite restaurant feeling particularly hungry, the thing to do is to have a starter. But the reason this brings me to The Delivery by L A Detwiler is that for me, my experience of reading the book was kind of the opposite of this.
What I mean is that I absolutely loved the last two chapters. I thought that I had seen a solution coming, and this wasn’t it. But even if I had guessed it correctly, I’m not sure it would have mattered because the way it’s delivered is still superb. The effects were firstly to make me gasp out loud at the suddenness of the revelation. Secondly to cause me to realise, with sudden and brutal clarity, the significance of what hadn’t been said in so many of the earlier chapters. And thirdly for me to continue thinking about the book for long after I had finished it, questioning how much of what I had read in the previous 37 chapters was even true.
The trouble was that I didn’t love any of those 37 chapters anywhere near as much.
Without wanting to give away any key elements of the plot, what essentially happens is that Evette, who narrates the story in the first person, becomes suspicious of her husband John’s behaviour and sets out to do some of her own investigations. The problem is one that this book shares with 'The New Wife' by Sue Watson that I read recently; it only seems to take one failure to find what she was looking for, or one angry rebuttal by someone she tries to speak to for her to give up for the day and slink home with her tail between her legs.
Dead ends are fine in police procedural novels, where a typically larger number of characters have more resources available to them and where, if one avenue is found to lead nowhere, they can explore another. But with only one single character operating outside any official capacity, the things he or she can do are more limited and the effect is for the book to get a bit repetitive.
Even this might not be so bad if the character was one that the reader could somehow bond with, support and cheer on as the book progressed. But Evette really isn’t that likeable. This isn’t a criticism because I’m sure she’s not meant to be – indeed I don’t think the ending would work as well as it does if she were. But it did mean that my patience, which admittedly isn’t one of my strongest virtues at the best of times, wore rather thin on occasions.
I wouldn’t go so far as to call any part of the book disappointing. I had no problem picking it up and reading more of it. The trouble was that for the most part, I didn’t have much difficulty putting it down again either. And for a piece of psychological fiction, in which I want my mind to be gripped from almost the start and blown by the end, this really isn’t enough.
My conclusion, then, is simple and succinct. Persevere to the end. It’s worth it.
My thanks to the author for gifting me an e-copy of this book, which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly. I will post my review on Goodreads now and on Amazon on publication day.
There are a range of chef’s signature dishes, all of which are lovely. But their jaipuri – a Bangladeshi dish – is to die for. When ordered with some rice and naan breads on the side, a couple of poppadoms each whilst we’re waiting for it to be cooked and all washed down with a pint or two of Cobra, the effect is to leave us feeling thoroughly satisfied. As well as so pleasantly full that the dessert menu is inevitably passed over with a polite smile.
A problem? Not at all. Because once, we did try desserts and they were a real disappointment. In stark contrast to the main courses, which are lovingly cooked and prepared on the premises, these were all too obviously shop-bought. Had we bought them ourselves in a supermarket for a quid or so, they’d have been OK. But it simply wasn’t worth paying more than five times that amount to have someone else serve them up in a dish on our behalf.
Ultimately, however, this is fine. We know now that if we go to our favourite restaurant feeling particularly hungry, the thing to do is to have a starter. But the reason this brings me to The Delivery by L A Detwiler is that for me, my experience of reading the book was kind of the opposite of this.
What I mean is that I absolutely loved the last two chapters. I thought that I had seen a solution coming, and this wasn’t it. But even if I had guessed it correctly, I’m not sure it would have mattered because the way it’s delivered is still superb. The effects were firstly to make me gasp out loud at the suddenness of the revelation. Secondly to cause me to realise, with sudden and brutal clarity, the significance of what hadn’t been said in so many of the earlier chapters. And thirdly for me to continue thinking about the book for long after I had finished it, questioning how much of what I had read in the previous 37 chapters was even true.
The trouble was that I didn’t love any of those 37 chapters anywhere near as much.
Without wanting to give away any key elements of the plot, what essentially happens is that Evette, who narrates the story in the first person, becomes suspicious of her husband John’s behaviour and sets out to do some of her own investigations. The problem is one that this book shares with 'The New Wife' by Sue Watson that I read recently; it only seems to take one failure to find what she was looking for, or one angry rebuttal by someone she tries to speak to for her to give up for the day and slink home with her tail between her legs.
Dead ends are fine in police procedural novels, where a typically larger number of characters have more resources available to them and where, if one avenue is found to lead nowhere, they can explore another. But with only one single character operating outside any official capacity, the things he or she can do are more limited and the effect is for the book to get a bit repetitive.
Even this might not be so bad if the character was one that the reader could somehow bond with, support and cheer on as the book progressed. But Evette really isn’t that likeable. This isn’t a criticism because I’m sure she’s not meant to be – indeed I don’t think the ending would work as well as it does if she were. But it did mean that my patience, which admittedly isn’t one of my strongest virtues at the best of times, wore rather thin on occasions.
I wouldn’t go so far as to call any part of the book disappointing. I had no problem picking it up and reading more of it. The trouble was that for the most part, I didn’t have much difficulty putting it down again either. And for a piece of psychological fiction, in which I want my mind to be gripped from almost the start and blown by the end, this really isn’t enough.
My conclusion, then, is simple and succinct. Persevere to the end. It’s worth it.
My thanks to the author for gifting me an e-copy of this book, which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly. I will post my review on Goodreads now and on Amazon on publication day.
December 9, 2021
3.5
Don't get me wrong, I like this author. No, I LOVE this author, she's one of those who still find time to communicate with her readers and followers, unlike some who became much of a snob after a few published books. LOL.
I always make sure to pre-order and/or request her books wherever it's available especially the short reads which get to me every time. But this here isn't one of my favorites, it felt like quite a huge build-up, like 70% into the story before you get to really know what is going on, which frustrated me a lot as I'm not one who likes to wait that long for the questions in my head to be answered. LOL. Also, maybe because I've read so many thrillers that I kind of knew what was going on with this "Margot issue", so I wasn't surprised when it was finally concluded. But I wanted so badly to know what's it got to do with the title - "The Delivery".
It has a great storyline and there's the thrill effect of finding out what's really happening and the 'who's who' behind the hints you get to pick up along the story. So, if you're the one who likes the guessing game in every chapter, then you’ll certainly enjoy this book.
What's constant with every book that I've read from LA Detwiler is the sadness I always feel whenever I finished her book; be it a Thriller or a short Horror one, it always has this deeper and darker connotation which always makes me wonder where it came from, I even asked her about it once I think. She's one of the few authors who makes me really "feel" and get into the story, and that's one of my bases of adding someone in my "Go-to Authors".
Can't wait for the next one!
Thank you so much LA Detwiler for the ARC of The Delivery.
Don't get me wrong, I like this author. No, I LOVE this author, she's one of those who still find time to communicate with her readers and followers, unlike some who became much of a snob after a few published books. LOL.
I always make sure to pre-order and/or request her books wherever it's available especially the short reads which get to me every time. But this here isn't one of my favorites, it felt like quite a huge build-up, like 70% into the story before you get to really know what is going on, which frustrated me a lot as I'm not one who likes to wait that long for the questions in my head to be answered. LOL. Also, maybe because I've read so many thrillers that I kind of knew what was going on with this "Margot issue", so I wasn't surprised when it was finally concluded. But I wanted so badly to know what's it got to do with the title - "The Delivery".
It has a great storyline and there's the thrill effect of finding out what's really happening and the 'who's who' behind the hints you get to pick up along the story. So, if you're the one who likes the guessing game in every chapter, then you’ll certainly enjoy this book.
What's constant with every book that I've read from LA Detwiler is the sadness I always feel whenever I finished her book; be it a Thriller or a short Horror one, it always has this deeper and darker connotation which always makes me wonder where it came from, I even asked her about it once I think. She's one of the few authors who makes me really "feel" and get into the story, and that's one of my bases of adding someone in my "Go-to Authors".
Can't wait for the next one!
Thank you so much LA Detwiler for the ARC of The Delivery.
February 8, 2022
Evette is married to John Harding, but they are not a happy family, they have a child, but something is not right. Something happened the night they met, something bad, something they want to forget but, it’s there all the time at the back of their mind. John has secrets of his own, he has locked his office and changed the safe combination. Why has he done that, Evette suspects something is not right, what is he hiding?
This is a fantastic read! L. A. Detwiler is one of the few auto-buy authors I follow, and she does it again. Such a compelling story, a story about love, loss, motherhood, lies & secrets.
I love the way the story is constructed, from the very beginning they mention something that happened in the past, a terrible thing the night they met, but the Lindsay doesn’t reveal anything, only small details which makes you want to carry on reading, I needed to find out what really happened.
What I really loved about the story was the ending, totally unexpected. There is a sequel called “The Labour” and it’s about John’s perspective, which I’m reading now. The only way to get it is by subscribing to her newsletter.
I urge you to check out Lindsay’s works, she’s a great writer.
This is a fantastic read! L. A. Detwiler is one of the few auto-buy authors I follow, and she does it again. Such a compelling story, a story about love, loss, motherhood, lies & secrets.
I love the way the story is constructed, from the very beginning they mention something that happened in the past, a terrible thing the night they met, but the Lindsay doesn’t reveal anything, only small details which makes you want to carry on reading, I needed to find out what really happened.
What I really loved about the story was the ending, totally unexpected. There is a sequel called “The Labour” and it’s about John’s perspective, which I’m reading now. The only way to get it is by subscribing to her newsletter.
I urge you to check out Lindsay’s works, she’s a great writer.
December 20, 2021
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
PUBLICATION DAY: February 1, 2022
SUMMARY:
This is the story of a new mother, and the lengths she’ll go to protect her young baby. Her husband is a danger to them both…or is he? Evette is finally a mother…her daughter Margot brings her so much joy, but she can’t help but feel anxious as she observes her husband John begin to act strangely. What is he up to? And are she and her daughter safe? Evette will stop at nothing to find out…
PROS and CONS:
Evette’s character was incredibly frustrating for me, as were the many allusions to an event that happened in her past. I felt a little like - just say what it was already. I had figured out the vast majority of the story so the ending fell quite flat for me…and I didn’t care much for any of the characters. Still, the writing was quite good - just the plot/characters were a bit of a disappointment.
READ IT?
It's definitely well written and I’m sure some suspense readers will love this one - especially if potentially unreliable narrators are your thing...
3 Stars
PUBLICATION DAY: February 1, 2022
SUMMARY:
This is the story of a new mother, and the lengths she’ll go to protect her young baby. Her husband is a danger to them both…or is he? Evette is finally a mother…her daughter Margot brings her so much joy, but she can’t help but feel anxious as she observes her husband John begin to act strangely. What is he up to? And are she and her daughter safe? Evette will stop at nothing to find out…
PROS and CONS:
Evette’s character was incredibly frustrating for me, as were the many allusions to an event that happened in her past. I felt a little like - just say what it was already. I had figured out the vast majority of the story so the ending fell quite flat for me…and I didn’t care much for any of the characters. Still, the writing was quite good - just the plot/characters were a bit of a disappointment.
READ IT?
It's definitely well written and I’m sure some suspense readers will love this one - especially if potentially unreliable narrators are your thing...
3 Stars
October 26, 2021
Evette and John meet under violent circumstances, but it’s love at first sight, and within 3 months they’re married. When Evette finally becomes a mother, and she’s perfectly happy at last, John starts behaving erratically. Fearing for her safety, and that of her daughter, Evette starts to snoop around and investigate. But her paranoia is getting the best of her, and things soon spiral out of control…
This captivating psychological thriller evokes emotion and connection right from the start. The ongoing tension between what the reader knows -or thinks he knows- and what the characters know, creates an uneasy atmosphere of anger, frustration, loss and vulnerability. You’re constantly trying to figure out what’s really going on. The mood is dark and twisted, with a true gut punch of an ending.
If you love a psychological thriller that can frighten, disturb, and even more so, deeply unnerve you, this is an absolute must-read!
This captivating psychological thriller evokes emotion and connection right from the start. The ongoing tension between what the reader knows -or thinks he knows- and what the characters know, creates an uneasy atmosphere of anger, frustration, loss and vulnerability. You’re constantly trying to figure out what’s really going on. The mood is dark and twisted, with a true gut punch of an ending.
If you love a psychological thriller that can frighten, disturb, and even more so, deeply unnerve you, this is an absolute must-read!
January 23, 2022
I really struggled with this book. At the start I found it very hard to get into and wasn’t at all sure where it was going. The 2 main characters John and his wife Evette I really couldn’t warm to. Neither of them struck me as particularly likeable characters.
Around 3 quarters of the way through the book there was a really exciting part and I really enjoyed that bit of the book however once that was over and we got to the end I had worked out what was going on with Evette. What was going on with John I found was cleverly written and a very carefully thought out.
Sadly this book wasn’t for me but I’m sure there are plenty out there who will enjoy it. This book wasn’t what I had expected at all it was very unique and unlike anything I’ve ever read before which is good if you are someone who’s looking for something a bit different.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review.
Around 3 quarters of the way through the book there was a really exciting part and I really enjoyed that bit of the book however once that was over and we got to the end I had worked out what was going on with Evette. What was going on with John I found was cleverly written and a very carefully thought out.
Sadly this book wasn’t for me but I’m sure there are plenty out there who will enjoy it. This book wasn’t what I had expected at all it was very unique and unlike anything I’ve ever read before which is good if you are someone who’s looking for something a bit different.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for this review.
November 19, 2021
Thank you #TheDeliveryADomesticThriller #NetGalley for giving me an ARC of L.A. Detwiler's book, "The Delivery: A Domestic Thriller" to be released 2/1/2022 for my honest review.
The story starts with a couple meeting at a bar, a crime being committed and within 3 months they are married! The perfect Bonnie and Clyde.
Evette is perfectly happy settling down, starting a family, being supported by her husband, John. Life couldn't be better until...John starts acting different, he starts locking his home office door, he changes passwords on his phone and home computer, coming home late from work. Evette suspects something is definitely going on and is determined to find out what!
Evette loves John but she loves her baby more. She will do what ever it takes to keep her baby safe.
A captivating psychological thriller with a jaw dropping ending.
The story starts with a couple meeting at a bar, a crime being committed and within 3 months they are married! The perfect Bonnie and Clyde.
Evette is perfectly happy settling down, starting a family, being supported by her husband, John. Life couldn't be better until...John starts acting different, he starts locking his home office door, he changes passwords on his phone and home computer, coming home late from work. Evette suspects something is definitely going on and is determined to find out what!
Evette loves John but she loves her baby more. She will do what ever it takes to keep her baby safe.
A captivating psychological thriller with a jaw dropping ending.
December 23, 2021
Tinsel tangles! 😳😳
Evette and John have it all and finally Evette has a baby, Margot, she's always wanted. But since Margot, John has changed immensely. A cliche? Or something more sinister? I will tell you this, you can guess all you want but whoa! You won't figure it out!
The only bit that slightly frustrated me through the book was how Evette kept hinting at dark deep secrets and something she and John had been through in the past along the way and I wanted to know what the fluff it was! But just over half way through, boy did things get extremely interesting and slowly unfolding and I did NOT see any of it coming. Totally unsuspecting of it all! Fluffin bread sticks! Absolutely crazy.
I give this 4.5 / 5 snowflakes! ❄️
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
Release Date: January 31st, 2022
Evette and John have it all and finally Evette has a baby, Margot, she's always wanted. But since Margot, John has changed immensely. A cliche? Or something more sinister? I will tell you this, you can guess all you want but whoa! You won't figure it out!
The only bit that slightly frustrated me through the book was how Evette kept hinting at dark deep secrets and something she and John had been through in the past along the way and I wanted to know what the fluff it was! But just over half way through, boy did things get extremely interesting and slowly unfolding and I did NOT see any of it coming. Totally unsuspecting of it all! Fluffin bread sticks! Absolutely crazy.
I give this 4.5 / 5 snowflakes! ❄️
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
Release Date: January 31st, 2022
November 15, 2021
This book is full of suspense, tension and intrigue and it really does make you question what on earth has gone on between Evette and John and definitely keeps you on your toes.
There felt like quite a lot of build up before you get to really know what went on which at times did frustrate me as it started to make me feel really impatient, but that is just my personal opinion as I am an impatient person.
I don’t know if it’s because I read so many thrillers that I kind of knew what was going to happen regarding Margot, so when it did, I wasn’t taken by surprise, although having said that, I do think the storyline is cleverly done.
If you like to be kept guessing and wondering what is going on, then you’ll certainly enjoy this book.
I give this book 3.5 stars
There felt like quite a lot of build up before you get to really know what went on which at times did frustrate me as it started to make me feel really impatient, but that is just my personal opinion as I am an impatient person.
I don’t know if it’s because I read so many thrillers that I kind of knew what was going to happen regarding Margot, so when it did, I wasn’t taken by surprise, although having said that, I do think the storyline is cleverly done.
If you like to be kept guessing and wondering what is going on, then you’ll certainly enjoy this book.
I give this book 3.5 stars
January 9, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
Evette has a baby. It is all she has ever wanted. But something isn’t right with her husband, John. In fact, something is very wrong. According to Evette anyway. And she is determined to find out the truth. But is her truth the same as everyone else’s?
I gave this 3 stars as I guessed most of the twists well before they were revealed. There were sections that I felt went on for too long, and the story could have been wrapped up sooner than it was. But on the whole, a decent read. The Kindle version also included a couple of chapters from ‘The Labour’, which is a book from John’s point of view. This benefitted the story also.
Overall, a decent read, but probably not an author I would read again.
Evette has a baby. It is all she has ever wanted. But something isn’t right with her husband, John. In fact, something is very wrong. According to Evette anyway. And she is determined to find out the truth. But is her truth the same as everyone else’s?
I gave this 3 stars as I guessed most of the twists well before they were revealed. There were sections that I felt went on for too long, and the story could have been wrapped up sooner than it was. But on the whole, a decent read. The Kindle version also included a couple of chapters from ‘The Labour’, which is a book from John’s point of view. This benefitted the story also.
Overall, a decent read, but probably not an author I would read again.
February 1, 2022
I was offered the chance to read an arc of this book & the premise sounded appealing.
Told in the first person by Evette, this is quite a long, dark read. Evette & John appear to have it all, both successful in their careers, a lovely home & a happy marriage but there is something missing. A child. When their daughter unexpectedly arrives everything changes in particular, from Evette’s point of view, John changes.
Evette is patently lonely & all may not be as it seems as she spirals in to the depths of depression. There are twists & turns along the way but the book is not perfect as it is all from one POV, although one major twist does make this more understandable.
I gather that the next book is the story of John & I can’t wait to read it. Recommended.
Told in the first person by Evette, this is quite a long, dark read. Evette & John appear to have it all, both successful in their careers, a lovely home & a happy marriage but there is something missing. A child. When their daughter unexpectedly arrives everything changes in particular, from Evette’s point of view, John changes.
Evette is patently lonely & all may not be as it seems as she spirals in to the depths of depression. There are twists & turns along the way but the book is not perfect as it is all from one POV, although one major twist does make this more understandable.
I gather that the next book is the story of John & I can’t wait to read it. Recommended.
April 28, 2022
Difficult for me to 'rate' this story. I bought it because I loved the author's book The Serial Killer's Daughter. I really liked the story telling in this story. It was fast and tightly paced. No filler or padding. I like this genre, like an unbalanced narrator, I like guessing what's happening. But with this story, the big reveal was super obvious from early on and so it ruined it for me a bit. I wish the author had made it less obvious. I still enjoyed reading it but not enough to want to continue with the series. The story has been told before, also in movie and mini series format.
November 30, 2021
After the first few pages, I knew this was a book I wasn’t going to be able to put down, until I got to The End. Compulsive and gripping! Suspenseful, addictive and complex! Will keep you swiping the pages furiously. If you like absolutely unpredictable, twisted suspense as much as I do, you can't go wrong with this book!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
June 2, 2025
Twists and Turns
I would have given this book 5 stars, but, there is no real ending. There’s a note telling the reader read “John’s Perspective.”While searching for that title, I found “Evette’s Story” They’re the married couple in “The Delivery”. I still haven’t found “John’s Perspective”. It’s so very frustrating. I will edit this review if my search ever comes to an end……….to be continued.
I would have given this book 5 stars, but, there is no real ending. There’s a note telling the reader read “John’s Perspective.”While searching for that title, I found “Evette’s Story” They’re the married couple in “The Delivery”. I still haven’t found “John’s Perspective”. It’s so very frustrating. I will edit this review if my search ever comes to an end……….to be continued.
January 16, 2022
In The Delivery, we meet Evette who is absolutely over-the-moon for her baby daughter; though, it seems, her husband, John, is not. Since the birth of their baby, John has become distant, secretive, and quick to anger. Before the baby, they lived in marital bliss—Evette and John connected on so many levels. Evette fears that John’s dark past is catching up to him once again, and she’s determined to get to the bottom of it and find out his secrets.
This thriller kept me on the edge of my seat, wanting to find out what John was up to. And as I learned more about their history, I became even more invested in how this story would unfold. Both John and Evette’s flaws and secrets kept me coming back for more.
For readers who enjoy a domestic thriller with a powerful twist, The Delivery is a solid choice. I’m looking forward to the second book that is told in John’s POV.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book and provide an honest review.
This thriller kept me on the edge of my seat, wanting to find out what John was up to. And as I learned more about their history, I became even more invested in how this story would unfold. Both John and Evette’s flaws and secrets kept me coming back for more.
For readers who enjoy a domestic thriller with a powerful twist, The Delivery is a solid choice. I’m looking forward to the second book that is told in John’s POV.
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book and provide an honest review.
January 31, 2022
This book was a slow burn for me.
It seemed slow to start but the pace did pick up in the last third. Unfortunately, I did second guess the ending. However, I am interested to read the next book as it will be interesting to see what happens after.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
It seemed slow to start but the pace did pick up in the last third. Unfortunately, I did second guess the ending. However, I am interested to read the next book as it will be interesting to see what happens after.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
February 15, 2022
Evette has wanted a baby for so long, and now that she has Margot, her life should be perfect. Except her husband is acting strange. Strange in ways that make her feel afraid- possibly for her life.
But Evette has secrets too.
I listened to this one on audible. I often listen to audiobooks as I clean my house, and I would find myself sometimes scrubbing grout with a toothbrush to keep listening. (I only listen to the audiobooks when I clean to help me want to clean more. So far it’s worked.) I’d clean the kitchen while I made dinner to find out what was up with Evette’s husband, and what Evette did that was mentioned off-hand several times.
I did know what was going on early in the book, but that’s really never stopped me from enjoying a book before. It kind of makes me feel smart to figure it out early, and I can tell the dog that I knew it. She doesn’t care though.
*Very special thanks to LA Detweiler for being kind enough to gift me with this audiobook.
3.5/5 rounded up to 4
But Evette has secrets too.
I listened to this one on audible. I often listen to audiobooks as I clean my house, and I would find myself sometimes scrubbing grout with a toothbrush to keep listening. (I only listen to the audiobooks when I clean to help me want to clean more. So far it’s worked.) I’d clean the kitchen while I made dinner to find out what was up with Evette’s husband, and what Evette did that was mentioned off-hand several times.
I did know what was going on early in the book, but that’s really never stopped me from enjoying a book before. It kind of makes me feel smart to figure it out early, and I can tell the dog that I knew it. She doesn’t care though.
*Very special thanks to LA Detweiler for being kind enough to gift me with this audiobook.
3.5/5 rounded up to 4
February 16, 2022
3.5 stars
I guessed the big plot, unfortunately, and there wasn't that much action happening throughout. I still enjoyed it and was not expecting the ending and want to read the sequel and John's perspective in the next books.
I guessed the big plot, unfortunately, and there wasn't that much action happening throughout. I still enjoyed it and was not expecting the ending and want to read the sequel and John's perspective in the next books.
August 15, 2022
This book was too slow and just dragged on for me. The ending was okay but overall the book could have been better. It was just really hard to get into and I couldn't stay focused on it.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy.
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