In "Never Let You Go" by Chevy Stevens, the story revolves around Lindsey Nash and her daughter Sophie as they navigate the aftermath of an abusive marriage and the return of Lindsey's ex-husband, Andrew, from prison. The novel is a gripping thriller that alternates between past and present timelines, keeping readers on edge with twists, turns, and a sense of looming danger. Stevens weaves a tale of suspense, domestic abuse, and complex family dynamics that culminates in a shocking and unexpected conclusion.

Characters:

The characters are complex and relatable, with Lindsey showcasing resilience, Sophie exhibiting typical teenage conflict, and Andrew embodying the manipulative abuser.

Writing/Prose:

The author's writing style is engaging and emotionally driven, effectively alternating perspectives to enhance character depth and suspense.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a mother-daughter duo escaping an abusive husband, only for him to resurface years later, leading to intense suspense and exploration of trauma.

Setting:

The story unfolds in a small Canadian town, with flashbacks to Mexico that enrich the backdrop of the characters' experiences.

Pacing:

The pacing varies throughout the book, with initial slower sections leading to a more intense and gripping second half.

I didn’t have long. He was waiting at the beach—and he’d be counting every minute. I splashed cold water on my face, let the rivulets run down my neck and onto my shirt. I stared into the mirror. Trie...

Notes:

The novel addresses the theme of domestic abuse through the story of Lindsey, an abused wife who escapes with her daughter Sophie.

The story unfolds in dual timelines, showing both the past and present, which helps illustrate how the abusive relationship developed and its long-lasting effects.

Lindsey's ex-husband, Andrew, is released from prison after serving time for a drunk driving accident that resulted in a woman's death, triggering a series of unsettling events for Lindsey and Sophie.

Character development is highlighted, with both Lindsey and Sophie portrayed as flawed yet relatable characters, showcasing their growth and resilience.

Angus, the family dog, is a significant character in the story, with his safety causing anxiety for readers until the end.

The book features alternating perspectives between Lindsey and Sophie, adding depth and urgency to their experiences and emotions as they navigate their tumultuous lives.

Twists and surprises keep readers engaged, as characters whose motives seem clear often have hidden motivations that complicate the narrative.

Chevy Stevens' writing style is noted for its gritty realism, especially in depicting the complexity of abusive relationships and the aftermath of trauma.

The mother-daughter bond is central to the story, highlighting the protective instincts of a parent as they face life-threatening situations together.

While the story is thrilling and suspenseful, it also sheds light on the psychological aspects of living with fear and the struggle for autonomy in the aftermath of domestic violence.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers for this book include domestic violence, emotional abuse, and themes of stalking and fear for personal safety.

Has Romance?

There are elements of romance, primarily through the protagonist's interactions with her boyfriend, but the main focus remains on the psychological tension of her past.

From The Publisher:

In Never Let You Go, Chevy Stevens delivers a chilling, twisting thriller that crackles with suspense as it explores the darkest heart of love and obsession.

"Stevens's taut writing and chilling depiction of love twisted beyond recognition make this a compelling read." -Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

"Disturbing, suspenseful, and just a little nerve-wracking." -Library Journal

Eleven years ago, Lindsey Nash escaped into the night with her young daughter and left an abusive relationship. Her ex-husband, Andrew, was sent to jail and Lindsey started over with a new life.

Now, Lindsey is older and wiser, with her own business and a teenage daughter who needs her more than ever. When Andrew is finally released from prison, Lindsey believes she has cut all ties and left the past behind her. But she gets the sense that someone is watching her, tracking her every move. Her new boyfriend is threatened. Her home is invaded, and her daughter is shadowed. Lindsey is convinced it's her ex-husband, even though he claims he's a different person. But has he really changed? Is the one who wants her dead closer to home than she thought?

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What can you read after
Never Let You Go?

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About the Author:

CHEVY STEVENS grew up on a ranch on Vancouver Island and still lives on the island with her husband and daughter. When she's not working on her next book, she's camping and canoeing with her family in the local mountains. Her debut novel, Still Missing, won the International Thriller Writers Award for Best First Novel.

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Never Let You Go

Chevy Stevens