The Exes: A GMA Book Club Pick

Praise for The Exes
“Leodora Darlington’s debut novel explores the power dynamics of modern romance while also delving into the secrets we keep even from ourselves—putting a new spin on the classic unreliable narrator.”
—Marie Claire, “The 10 Most-Anticipated Mystery-Thriller Books of 2026″

“Have you ever started reading a book and everything about it grips you right away? The Exes connected with my brain on a cellular level, and I was locked in from page one. In terms of the narrative, I’ve been telling people it’s like the show You, but from a female POV — only we’re not sure if the protagonist Natalie is actually a serial killer. It’s also not a murder-glorification book; it explores complex themes like generational trauma and strained family relationships.”
—”This Is the Best Book of 2026, According to One KCM Editor,” Katie Couric Media

“The Exes poses powerful questions about relationship trauma, and its connection to things of the past. An intriguing psychological thriller about love’s promises and perils, how trauma can leave invisible scars, and the veil between self-protection and self-destruction. This book is definitely for readers who don’t just consume stories, but interrogate them. And, the heightened level of suspense, coupled with the reader’s invitation to examine the complexities of the human heart, definitely makes this book a must-read.”
—Essence, “The Most Anticipated Books Of 2026″

“The Exes is such a fun, engaging read that once you pick it up, you won’t be able to put down.”
—E! News

“This thriller could be a, ahem, cathartic read for the jaded. One woman’s seemingly perfect life is haunted by a string of dead exes and a dark secret.”
—USA Today, Book Newsletter

“The Exes explodes out the gate and never lets up, delivering twist after shocking twist right up until its deeply affecting end. A razor-sharp debut about the secrets we keep even from ourselves.”
—Ana Reyes, New York Times bestselling author of The House in the Pines

“An exquisitely written wild ride of a story full of complex characters, taut suspense and plot twists you won’t see coming.”
—Jessica George, New York Times bestselling author of Maame

“In addition to being full of unexpected twists and turns, The Exes is beautifully written with profound things to say about family and the lengths we’ll go to protect the ones we love.”
—Tasha Coryell, author of Love Letters to a Serial Killer

“An excellent read: entertaining, intriguing and exciting. Bravo!”
—Liz Nugent, bestselling author of Strange Sally Diamond

“The Exes has a clever set-up: a woman with a trail of dead fiances finds her current partner has been keeping secrets. What part did she play in the deaths of her ex-lovers, and how can she make sure history doesn’t repeat itself? The characterization is particularly apt, with seeming opposites yielding to slowly emerging parallels, revealing and structuring in equal measure.”
—CrimeReads

“Darlington’s promising debut has more twists than a bag of pretzels, and the shifts in point-of-view and time periods are sure to keep readers guessing. Domestic suspense fans will enjoy the revenge fantasy element—there’s deep satisfaction to be had when certain people get their comeuppance—and themes of grief and family provide emotional heft.”
—Booklist

“This is the book I’ve been hungry for. Sharp and smart, The Exes grips with a well orchestrated story, while exploring deeper themes with a deft hand and underlying humour.”
—Mary Watson, author of The Cleaner

“In [her] nail-biting debut. . . Darlington keeps the pace fleet and the twists flying as she perceptively explores the contradictory power dynamics of contemporary heterosexual romance. It’s a promising first outing.”
—Publisher’s Weekly

“[A] twisted, twisty thriller. . . . Unlike some thriller writers…Darlington manages to include some genuine surprises, weaving themes of mental illness and family trauma with a sense of mystery. At the center of it all is Natalie herself: flawed, mistreated, and distrustful, but also strong. She, and Darlington, refuse to let bad men get away with doing bad things.”
—Kirkus

“Twisting and unexpected, Leodora Darlington is set to be a breakout thriller big name with a plot that constantly wrong-foots you. Natalie and her husband are in a bad way: their marriage is crumbling and, most concerning of all, Natalie has a knife in her hand, and she’s been here before…”
—Stylist

“A twisty novel with lots of turns you don’t see coming. A great psychological thriller.”
—Red Carpet Crash