From Something Old

Thank you Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the eARC.
I think I've read all of Nick Alexander's books and loved all of them. This one was no exception.
Two families, two couples with three kids, decide to vacation together in Spain. Neither of the couples are in a good relationship, but the kids are having a great time. Heather is constantly belittled by her husband Anthony, even in company. Being naturally shy, she puts up with it, but is constantly on edge. Easygoing Joe loves Amy, but she never seems happy and chops and changes their lives regularly.
One night in Spain Heather can't sleep and discovers something so earth shattering, it causes a seismic change and things will never be the same for any of them.
The story is wonderful, full of humanity, understanding and compassion, something that's always in Mr. Alexander's books. No judgement... I really empathized with Heather and Joe, disliked Ant and found Amy selfish, even though I understood where she was coming from.
A great read that I recommend highly.

Once again, Nick has written a beautifully crafted, well researched book that makes you want to turn off your phone, get a coffee, ignore the world and read it in one sitting! As with all his novels, I was hooked from page one. The main characters are between them, charming, endearing, frustrating and rather unpleasant in equal measure but weave together to make a captivating storyline with a heartwarming ending. A perfect summer/lockdown read,

I received an advance copy of. From Something Old, by Nick Alexander. I thought this was going to be a really good book, I was wrong. It was boring and I did not like the characters.

Nick Alexander does it again !! ... I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of Nick's new book via netgalley a few days ago. I decided to start it yesterday and once started I did not put it down until I had finished it at 1am in the morning (it's been quite a while since I have done that with a book).
I have been a huge fan of Nick's books for many years now and this new book certainly didn't disappoint. The storyline is very easy to get into and follow - the characters had a great back story as to who they were and why they were like they were. A great story of love, betrayal, heartache and finding true happiness in-between it all.
I absolutely loved this book .. thankyou (easy 5 star rating)

‘From Something Old’ is a thoroughly absorbing exploration of the web of power unhappy marriages yield on everybody involved. Two ill-matched couples end up sharing a holiday home in Spain, cut off from the internet and with limited reception. What follows, is the aftermath of what happens there and the domino effect a single decision can evoke.

This is a second novel I’ve read by the author, and on both counts I’ve been impressed by his masterful ability to juggle multiple POV and have me actually enjoy them (I’m normally not an overly huge fan of these). Nick Alexander makes it work by developing these very real, three dimensional characters that you can’t help but want to understand and find out more about what they’re thinking and their motivations. In the end, the book passes in a breeze as you are so engaged by them and their problems, you don’t even realise that you’re almost done.

In essence, the book was like watching a boiling pot explode and then checking what can be salvaged from the mess. If you strip one of the person holding you back, what happens then? Identity is a major theme in the book, and I’ve enjoyed the conclusions the author had drawn and the questions the book brought along. I found Nick Alexander providing us a look into the character’s childhoods expanded on the reasons for some of the decisions and personality traits. In the end, each character had something unique to offer ensuring the plot moved along swiftly, all whilst maintaining your engagement. If you’re in for some drama, definitely worth reading!

I absolutely loved this book. I’ve never read something by Nick Alexander before but will definitely look for others. I was drawn in immediately by Heather’s character and the story of her marriage and progressive decline in her self esteem was sad but authentic. I thought all the characters were convincing and realistic and although the ending is somewhat predictable by half way, it was lovely that it ended that way. It wasn’t at all trite or soppy- just very heart warming! Would highly recommend.

Heather meets Anthony in B and Q whilst weeping over toilet roll holders! He’s smoking hot, out of her league but none the less a relationship begins... Joe meets Amy on a yoga retreat in Spain and you guessed it, a relationship begins. Joe is prepared to make sacrifices to make Amy happy. Eventually, the two couples meet through their children. The story is told mainly by Heather and Joe.

I’ve read several of Nick Alexander’s books now and I like the way he writes. His novels are perceptive, written with clarity and he creates authentic characters with believable dialogue. This is a good and intriguing analysis of relationships, of who wears the trousers, charting the normal ups and downs, some that are not so normal and demonstrating that you can’t always see the truth of something unless you are on the inside. Anthony is a character you love to hate, there’s precious little about him that is redeeming whereas Joe is his polar opposite and very likeable. Amy is flakey, never satisfied and always on the prowl to fill a void. Heather is nice but at times I want to yell ‘Spine’ at her as in develop one, PLEASE!! She does, thankfully. It’s very easy to read and it’s absorbing too as you find yourself investing in their futures. Not Anthony, let me be clear! Their emotions and thoughts are well expressed and you feel the growing tension between the couples. Joe is reflective and makes thought provoking points about priorities and not letting opportunities dribble through your fingers. Heather becomes honest and similarly reflective and develops a sense of purpose away from the almost malevolent ‘enchantment’ of Anthony. It does follow a fairly predictable path but it’s a route I’m happy the book takes.

Overall, this is a compelling analysis of relationships, warts and all, with interesting characters you invest in.

With thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the arc in return for an honest review.

Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy!

This book pleasantly surprised me. As the novel began, we followed the perspectives of a couple, Heather and Ant. During this period we see how they meet and how their relationship progresses rather quickly. We then jump ahead to their married life with children and the introduction of their neighbors, Joe and Amy. The two families decide to vacation together in Spain, when the unexpected marriage complications occur. The book left me feeling sad for Heather and Joe. But we then follow their lives post vacation, and things were not as great as they seemed but ultimately work out for the best, especially the children. Great read!

Thank you to Amazon Publishing for the advance copy to review.

I loved how this story is told through the perspective of each of the four adults in the story. This perspective allows for the behind the scenes true feelings of each to be shared.

The story opens with Heather, a thirty something singleton who meets Anthony (Ant) in the hardware store. When she bumps into him again, her friend encourages them to get together. And as happens in real life, things get away with them.

They eventually have two children together although they don’t marry. The problem is that Ant is controlling and Heather doesn’t at first stand up to him. She looses her confidence, as really happens to the best people in these circumstances.

Years later, they are invited to holiday in Spain with their daughter’s friend Ben’s family and the story introduces Amy and Joe.

The holiday in Spain is a turning point for both families and the relationship between the two couples.

Without giving away the entire plot, I enjoyed the rest of the story and especially the peace that came to the characters in the end.

This is a thought provoking book. Themes of taking control of relationships, abuse, fidelity and families all come together. Loved it.

NICK ALEXANDER – FROM SOMETHING OLD

I read this novel in advance of publication through NetGalley in return for an honest review.

From Something Old is a very satisfying novel to read, and I think one of Nick Alexander’s recent best.

Plot put simply? Two families who live close together and whose children form a school friendship go on holiday together to Spain, sharing one of the picturesque cave-dwelling holiday homes, with an outcome that changes each of their lives.

Chapters are told in the first person by three of the four main protagonists and reveal the truth behind their public exteriors, while we enjoy the private interplay of their relationships. Nick’s ability to “write women” is one of his strengths and comes to the fore here with two particularly strong female leads.

Each of the characters is distinctive and well-drawn; needing to know what happens to them draws the reader swiftly through the pages. One feels empathy for the three characters whose stories loom large and understand why the fourth is not given the space to speak for himself. Spain, too, looms large as a character, more so than some other destinations in his recent novels, which is particularly welcome. This time you can feel the heat and cool off in the pool or stroll to the tree down the road where you finally get reception for your phone.

I have no doubt that his legions of fans will lap this up, and, hopefully, it will find many new disciples who will then have the pleasure of exploring his back catalogue.

Typical Nick Alexander style with characters who are developed, crafted perfectly into their stories. They fit well into other plot lines, as if they were meant to be all along. Characters are relatable, they’re your best friends, neighbors, colleagues and family. It’s like cozying up with a story you find familiar yet unwrapping a gift at the same time.

It had been a while since I’d read anything by Nick Alexander. I remembered enjoying his writing so that's why I picked this up. Well, from the first paragraph to the last page, I remembered ...and was hooked again.

Pleasantly surprised that the story kept going way beyond where others might have ended. So many sharp observations of human nature in all its variations. I stayed up too late reading this. Really enjoyed getting to know these characters. You will, too.

Thank you @NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an unbiased review.

Nick Alexander's novels are always a really good read and this did not disappoint. The exploration of each of the four main characters was well crafted, and whether you liked them or not, you could see what has shaped them and how as married couples, they were not good for each other. The journey for each of them was painful and challenging but the ultimate outcome gives you a feel good experience.

Loved the story and the characters whom are made to me I grossed within their own stories too. Couldn’t put down.

This is my third book by Nick Alexander and he is quickly becoming a favourite author, I inhale his books I don't read them. He really knows how to write about the human condition, in this story it is about love, sex, marriage and parenthood. I adore the covers of his books as well, they always grab my attention and give a sneak peek as to what's inside.

I love the way that Mr. Alexander can write from the perspective of both male and female characters. I also appreciate the way that the chapters are broken up, from the different characters point of view, which makes for easier reading and lets you feel emotions from everyone's perspective. Even though there were two not no nice characters in this story it was refreshing to read why they themselves didn't feel like the bad guy.

Nick Alexander is an author who makes the ordinary extraordinary and magical, describing his characters so effortlessly, really bringing them to life and making you, as the reader, care deeply. Once again he writes a beautiful story which shows insight into the lives of others and made this reader turn the pages at an impossible to put down rate. All the stars.

At thirty-three, nurse Heather is desperately waiting for her romantic life to begin. Then she meets handsome, strong Anthony and is sure she’s found the one. Brushing any doubts aside, she projects all her hopes for true love onto him. Meanwhile, at a yoga retreat in Spain, happy-go-lucky Joe can’t believe his luck when he meets vivacious, witty Amy. She’s the sharpest, most beautiful woman he has ever dated, and the fact that she’s interested in him feels like a dream come true. But new love can be blind, and when the two couples meet, the cracks are easy to see. Will their crossed paths lead the way to happiness? Or are they all destined for heartbreak?

I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this. It is not the most scintillating plot and is not one for twists and turns but nevertheless I found myself wrapped up in the goings on of the characters and completely immersed in their world. Why is this? Well Alexander's characters are some of the most realistic characters I have ever read. I could really imagine them and see them as real people, interacting in the real world. They all seemed very human, not all of them are likeable, that will become clear when you read this, but they all have something about them that made them easy to connect to. Alexander has developed them really well and they carry the plot fantastically.

My other love for this book centres around the location. A large section of the book is set in the area local to me so I could easily imagine where the characters were and envisage them slotting into life and the local landscape.

Alexander does write about some sensitive subjects that could be triggering for readers but they are handled sensitively and are integral to the plot. At times, it makes for uncomfortable reading but Alexander brings everything together and ties all the threads up beautifully.

'From Something Old' is just a beautifully written, well crafted read that is a pure joy to read. I adored reading this and highly recommend it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an advance copy.

I’d say this is one of the most topical, profound, thought-provoking novels I’ve read this year, and it’s hard to do it justice in a review. It has such an edge on relationships that I was immediately engrossed. The characterisation is portrayed to perfection. Fairly soon, I figured out who should be with whom, who should have been shot at dawn or cheerfully strangled at birth. Although it is not a thriller, the suspense, twists and evolving problems are out there. Two couples are wrongly paired. One marriage is between polar opposites, and the other is an abusive marriage. There’s an emotional, marital shipwreck when the two families decide to go abroad on holiday together. The pendulum is ticking on what can be retrieved from the chaos. Most impressive is the vividly defined pattern of abuse. All the symptoms and effects of emotional and verbal abuse are subtly threaded through, that they could be almost overlooked until the fires burn brighter and explode. Heather is already suffering from self-denigration and unworthiness before her marriage. Will she find the inner strength, reserves, and resources to survive reasonably unscathed? Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK.

Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher. I like everything this author has written and this was no exception. Great story, lovely characters and I really enjoyed it.

I make no secret of how big a fan of this author I am... I started with the 50 Reasons series back in something like 2011 when I got my first Kindle and have devoured and loved everything he has written since. So... it'll come as no shock for me to say - I Loved This Book!
OK so... I could kinda see where we were probably going with the storyline - but, as I often say with this genre of book - it's not the destination, it's the journey. And the journey this book took me on was delightful and wonderful and, well, so many emotions both positive and negative. But all very valid.
It really helped that I connected with all four main characters right from the off. Some more than others, some also in a more positive way. But, as with ALL of the characters this author has created over his stellar career, all were well crafted and all felt completely real. Throw them into a cracking storyline, full of life twists and turns, sprinkle with some ups and downs and more of the sht that life generally throws at people and you got yourself one heck of a compelling read. Well.. that's how I saw it anyway.
Oh and there is no waffle or padding to be found. Nothing to distract from the story and characters. Enough description to colour the narrative and not a word more. Which means that the story gets on with itself very well and it's easy to fall under its spell and stay there for the duration.
In fact, the only bad thing about it is reaching the wholly satisfying end and having to leave the characters that I have got to know along the way. It's always a wrench doing this but I guess we have to leave them to get on with things on their own...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 This book is a perfect example of how unexpected changes can lead to significant new beginnings. This book, From Something Old by Nick Alexander, is a cautionary tale about “settling” or cautiously agreeing to live without trials and tribulations. It’s simply isn’t good to play it safe all the time. Let’s be honest. No marriage, no matter how great it is, will go through some bumps in the road, that is how couples communicate and grow healthy marriages or relationships. But always trying to avoid those bumpy roads is going to lead to a wreck. From something old, you can get to something new, and this book was excellent. The author introduces us to love, marriage, children, homes, verbal abuse, poor negotiation, lack of communication, and so much more. But it’s told in a fresh way and with a wee bit of humor at times. I liked it and was pleasantly surprised. That’s always a good thing. Thank you to Netgalley for the free ARC. #marriage #divorce #FromSomethingOld #nickalexander #familylife #may-publication

Heather and Ant are in a relationship where Heather is being pushed around constantly by Ant. Their daughter, Lucy, is friends with Ben, a son to Amy and Joe. The 2 families go on a holiday to Spain together, mostly for the sake of their children. A good holiday turns out horrible, but the ending is good!

This book is about compassion, love and sacrifices. The book is engaging, although I have read a more-engaging can't-stop-reading books. Ultimately, I put this on the genre (personal preference) - love stories cannot be as engaging as thriller/horror books. Throughout reading the book, I did have some kind of expectation on how I want the ending to be, and it turns out just as I wanted it to be. So the shocking element, to me, is sort of lacking. The way Alexander describes the background, all the information, it feels like an autobiography. I thought the story might be boring at first, but further into the book, I find that it is actually a good book.

What I do like about the book is that it's different. I read love stories quite a lot, but this one is different from the others in a good way. I like that the opening sets a great and relevant background to the story, but at the same time I find it a bit too long.

I always enjoy Nick Alexander's books, he is such an expert at characterisation. He writes so perceptively about relationships and you really get under the skin of his characters. The abusive relationship which features mostly in the first half of the story is difficult to read but very believable. I guessed the direction the story was heading in but that isn't a criticism, we don't always need massive twists to satisfy us as readers, a well crafted character driven story is extremely satisfying. Very enjoyable read and I would recommend all of Nick's books.

Heather and Antony and Joe and Amy. Two couples who are very different - and very alike. They all have their say in this novel that put them together, along with their three kids (two for Ant and Heather and one for Joe and Amy) in a house in Spain. There aren't many distractions there so this forces them to face some truths they've been avoiding. This could have gone hard to the nasty but it doesn't. No spoilers from me on how things work out but know that it isn't easy for anyone. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

Heather is aware she’s unexceptional, so when she’s pursued by handsome, charming Anthony, she’s initially bowled over. Unfortunately all is not the fairytale she hopes for, and by the time her children are at school, Heather is desperately unhappy.

Maybe a holiday with new friends Joe and Amy will be good for them all?
Just kidding - of course it’s a disaster!

Thus was an enjoyable, if slightly predictable story, and the alternate first person characters work well. I’ll be looking for more of this author’s books.


Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an advance copy. All my opinions my own.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👧Deep, realistic exploration of family👨‍👩‍👦🐈

From Something Old was a riveting read, focusing on the dynamics of two English families and their sudden transformation during a summer vacation together in rural Spain.

It's really well-written and I particularly loved the change of perspective alternating between three of the main characters. I truly got a strong sense of who these three were and how they'd ended up in their predicament. The extra pages used to paint a thorough picture of both marriages right up to the moment of crisis and in the aftermath were well worth the extra reading time. For me, this extended internal glimpse into Joe, Amy and Heather made the story especially appealing.

Thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for providing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

Many thanks to the author, publishers and Netgalley for a free ARC of this ebook.
I've read several of this author's books before and really enjoyed them. This is a well written story of two 30-something couples whose ostensibly happy relationships unravel whilst on holiday together. Some of the characters are especially dislikable, others are a little more charming. It's an easy read, there are no real surprises and some difficult issues are explored very well, e.g. emotional abuse, difficult childhoods.
I recommend this book to those looking for something which goes deep into the characters, and doesn't dwell on the negative.

I’d like to thank Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘From Something Old’ by Nick Alexander in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.

Heather can’t believe her luck when she meets handsome charismatic Anthony and with their two daughters her life is complete but Anthony is aggressively controlling and belittles her at every opportunity. When their daughter Lucy becomes friends with Ben at school it’s not long before Heather and Ant meet his parents, vivacious Amy and Joe, who live just along the road from them. The two families go on holiday to Spain together where cracks soon appear and on their return to England their lives are change, but for the better or worse?

‘From Something Old’ is the beautifully written story of four people who’ve ignored the cracks in their marriages until an event brings them to the surface. The descriptions of the characters are so lifelike that I feel that I know them, Heather’s mother-in-law the vicious and mean-minded Marge and her narcissistic son Anthony who in her eyes can do no wrong, hardworking Joe who’s always done his best for family, Amy who’s never been satisfied with her life, and kind and gentle Heather who’s learnt not to answer back to Ant’s put-downs.
The further I got into the story the more enthralled I became with the characters until I couldn’t stop reading as I needed to know what was happening next. The author has this amazing ability to keep the reader completely involved and I’d give it more than five stars if I could. This is a thoroughly enjoyable novel that I’m sorry I’ve finished, I can wholeheartedly recommend it.

I really enjoyed this well written, easy to read story. The characters weren’t exactly all likeable but they were very real and the way the author explores their dynamics and back story kept my interest.

I have read quite a novels of this genre in the last few months and enjoyed this as much as the others. The author writes about the characters in a way it does make them seem real and relatable. This for me is very important sometimes and keeps my interest until the end.

Would definitely recommend

It takes quite a remarkable writer to create such a compelling story from what looks like an unremarkable domestic drama, but this is what we have from Nick Alexander. Two unhappy couples and their children go on holiday to Spain. Without internet and wi-fi, the unravelling of their relationships happens at pace and we look at the consequences from the perspectives of three of them - Heather, Joe and Amy. The novel explores their back history and what has made them who they are and the way they rebuild their lives after the holiday. It gives some pause for thought over what makes some relationships tick and other relationships toxic and by giving the reader insight into the parents of the four main characters, makes you think about how parenting shapes personalities and the way people handle relationships. Not surprising therefore that Joe is the most grounded and resilient of the four, with such a kind and thoughtful father. A great book club read, with lots to analyse and talk about. I loved it and will seek out more books by this author. Thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the novel pre-publication.

Four people looking for love. Four choices could be the start of everything. At thirty-three, nurse Heather is desperately waiting for her romantic life to begin. Then she meets handsome, strong Anthony and is sure she’s found the one. Brushing any doubts aside, she projects all her hopes for true love onto him. Meanwhile, at a yoga retreat in Spain, happy-go-lucky Joe can’t believe his luck when he meets vivacious, witty Amy. She’s the sharpest, most beautiful woman he has ever dated, and the fact that she’s interested in him feels like a dream come true. But new love can be blind, and when the two couples meet, the cracks are easy to see.

The characters are developed, crafted perfectly into their stories. They fit well into other plotlines as if they were meant to be all along. The characters are relatable, they’re your best friends, neighbours, colleagues and family. It’s like cosying up with a story you find familiar yet unwrapping a gift at the same time.

This is a first for me by the author and one I enjoyed and would read more of their work. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop. Thank you very much to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

Thank you, Nick, for giving me back my reading mojo!

Five minutes after starting “From Something Old” I felt as though I was watching a film, each character lit up the screen and my imagination was caught by the breath-taking scenery. A grandiose but remote villa in Spain, where to get a phone signal you had to walk halfway down the mountains. The seaside towns of Whitby, Filey and, my favourite, Robin Hoods Bay made me so nostalgic for those childhood holidays.

Heather is a nurse who puts family first. Anthony, her “Smoking Hot” husband, is a good father to their two girls, but he has been chipping away at his wife’s self-confidence since the first day they met.

Joe thinks he was punching way above his weight when he married the beautiful Amy. He absolutely adores her and will go to any lengths to keep her happy, but Amy is a dreamer and always on the lookout for her next big project.

When Lucy asks her mum and dad if they can go on holiday with Ben and his family, it starts a chain of events that will have leave an imprint on everyone’s life.

The conversations between the four characters are spellbinding, but Mr Alexander is also aware of when a simple glance, a shrug or a touch of hands can say far more than any words. He, above all other authors, has mastered the art of storytelling.

I have to say that the scenes starring Heather’s mother-in-law made my jaw drop with admiration for the way she is portrayed.

Reading a Nick Alexander book is like catching- up with your best friend, the conversation just flows and before you know it the night has ended, and you find yourself crying as you wave goodbye.

Great drama from Nick Alexander, in this read about two unhappy marriages told from the perspectives of three of the central characters.

Heather and Anthony’s marriage is controlling and difficult. Amy and Joe seem to have it all but nothing can make Amy feel fulfilled.

Circumstances lead to the two families spending a summer holiday together in rural Spain, but can their marriages survive the trip?

Each character has their own issues, and themes of alcoholism, and child abuse are explored throughout the book.

This was a deep, intense read, which was difficult to put down as I wanted to find out what happened next. I would definitely recommend. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Forty something Heather is married to Anthony. It is not a happy marriage. He constantly puts her down leaving her feeling insecure and unloved. When she meets Amy, the mother of one of her son's friends, life looks up a bit. Amy invites them to come to Spain with her and her family and with some misgivings she agrees. It doesn't take much imagination to see what's coming. Amy and Ant hook up leaving Joe (Amy's husband) shattered and Heather... well, she doesn't know if she's relieved or distressed. The author gives us the viewpoint of three of the foursome so we get their take on it all. The loathsome Anthony isn't given a voice which was a wise decision I think.

I enjoyed this book. The characters are realistic though somewhat annoying at times (aren't we all?). Heather is so passive you want to shake her and Ant so controlling it's quite upsetting at times. Surprisingly, the character I liked best was Amy. I really felt for her and I have met people like her who never seem able to settle to anything and are always looking to the latest self help book for help.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Review of From Something Old by Nick Alexander

This is the story of two couples Heather, who is a 33 year old Nurse, hopelessly waiting for her romantic life to begin. Then meets Anthony in B&Q and projects all her hopes of true love onto the relationship. Then couple number two is Joe and Amy, who meet in a yoga retreat in Spain. Joe feels incredible lucky to have found her as she is the most beautiful woman he has never known.

Queue the story of how love can be blind and when the two couples meet through their children the cracks start to show. Overall a good story and well written, with good character development. Told mainly through the eyes of Heather and Joe.

Another great read from Nick Alexander!
Two very different couples who end up going on holiday together although they don’t really know each other! Both couples are at different stages in their relationships and are now set on a totally different path due to an indiscretion that occurred on holiday! Nick has a fantastic ability to write from both the male and female perspectives particularly when relating to relationship issues, emotions and feelings.
The two wronged partners initially feel devastated, distraught and bitter at their partners betrayal but as with many things time is a great healer and ultimately they come out of the situation much happier, fulfilled and loved and realise that they have been done a favour by their errant partners.
A brilliant read that covers marital infidelity,control and abuse and the power of love! Would highly recommend.
Thank you netgalley for this early read.

I really enjoyed this story. I smiled and I even shed a tear!

The story is basically about two couples, each consisting of one nice person and one I really didn’t like. The first couple we meet is Heather and Anthony. Heather is sweet, but naive and a little to eager to find a boyfriend so when she meets Anthony she has her blindfolds on and just goes with it even though he is far from nice. The other couple is Joe and Amy. Joe is just the kindest man possible and much too nice for Amy, but he falls in love with her and no matter how egocentric she is, he’s there for her. When these two couples meet it ends up being a recipe for disaster, at least to start with.

Chapters are told first person, from the perspective of different characters so we really get inside their heads. The story flows smoothly and is touching and cringeworthy at times, showing not just the good, but also the bad when it comes to love, relationships and parenting.

I would like to thank Nick Alexander, Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great book. It started of with two couples where at least one of each of the couples was a less than likeable character. Although it is not a new subject, it is tried and tested, it is lovely. A very gentle read and leaves you full of hope and joy. Definitely a great summer read.

A gentle well written book about a fairly ordinary situation which was still compelling to read. The book is mainly written from the perspective of two of the main characters, Heather and Joe who one feels empathy with as opposed to their self-obsessed partners, Ant and Amy. Set in Kent, Canterbury and just outside (an area I grew up in, though I chuckled at the thought of luxury flats in Marshside!) plus Spain where the main plot unfolds. The book explores a lot of the hidden world of relationships, both marital and parental, shaping the person. One can almost predict the outcome but this doesn't detract from the book as a whole. A thoroughly enjoyable read and well recommended.

'Sometimes, in order to build something new, you first have to break something old into pieces.'...An easy read

I wasn't as enamoured with this book as I usually am with Nick Alexander's books. I think it's probably because I didn't warm to the characters. Heather allows herself to be bullied by Ant and doesn't stand up for herself. Joe believes Amy is out of his league and wonders what he has done to deserve her. He can't understand her depression after the birth of their son Ben and how Amy keeps trying to find herself.

When the four of them go on holiday together with their children things happen that change the course of their relationships.

I enjoyed the book but didn't find it as capturing as I was hoping it would be.

I’ve read a few books by this author and loved them all. This was no exception!
Characters were well drawn out even though they were some in there I never quite liked but that’s what a good author does, all characters don’t need to be likeable. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop. Thank you very much to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

A lovely little romance/fiction – definitely a quick and easy read.

This book was a lot more complex than expected for a novel about two couples swapping partners! I ended up really liking it. The author put a lot of work into creating well rounded characters, so you could understand their motivations and really understand that there are just different types of people, who deal with the same set of circumstances differently. It doesn’t make you bad or weak, and going through and dealing with trauma doesn’t make you bad or weak, it just is.

My biggest issue with the book is the concept that a nine-year-old can and should decide where they live. Should you take their ascertainable wishes and feelings into account? Yes. Should you go up to them and give them the responsibility to decide how often or not they see their other parent? No. An adult has to take ultimate responsibility for that decision, if only so that the nine-year-old doesn’t take responsibility for the devastation of their other parent in the long run. I think it was an unhealthy way to set an example of how to deal with such issues. And it was done by people considered emotionally intelligent. Save for that aspect, it was a pretty fun read and I enjoyed it.

Centred around four people looking for love. When they think they have found the one they overlook the imperfections and faults for fear of being alone again. A stay in Spain together sees everything come to a head and their lives implode, never to return to how they were again. Very well written with many sensitive subjects covered with empathy.

This is the third Nick Alexander book I've read and is my favourite by far. I really enjoyed the story line and the characters were generally well-developed and interesting, including Ant and Amy who are both less likeable as we get to know them more. I was invested in the developing relationships and was pleased with the outcome.

Nick Alexander has an amazing way of creating believable characters and storylines that grip you and you want to carry on reading. I finished this book in a few days (as I had to work in between - and couldn't read it all in one sitting!).

From Something Old is beautifully written and a fantastic read, covering painful subjects with well constructed, believable characters and a bittersweet rawness. Told from the perspectives of two couples with similar age children, the book centres on the relationships we might somehow find ourselves in, the feeling of the grass being greener, and the changes we go through. Given the amount of books he has written, and how much I love his style, I'm surprised to say that I think this is the first book I've read by Nick Alexander but I will definitely read more.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A lovely book with really well-written characters. I really connected to them and was excited to see what happened next. Highly recommended.

I have never read anything by Nick Alexander before, but having read reviews was excited to try this novel.

It was a fairly quick read, though I felt like the plot was fairly predictable with the ending being obvious from quite early on. This is a book about two couples who both have dysfunctional relationships with each other. An unexpected holiday invitation to Spain throws the families into close quarters which quickly reveals the fractures in the relationship.

I found the gaslighting of Heather by her husband Ant, particularly powerful and distressing. Her lack of self-esteem was difficult to read and I was glad to see her push back and take control of her life by the end of the novel. Amy is so unlikeable that even when her back story is revealed, it is hard to feel any sympathy for her. Joe, Amy's husband is a decent hardworking man, and perhaps overlooks her faults because he seems to genuinely love her and want the best for his family. I was more interested in each characters' history and what made them the people that they were than actually what happened to them. There are 3 children caught in the middle of this whole messy situation, but they seems rather accepting and resilient to the merry-go-round of relationships.

This was an acceptable read. I didn't really connect with the characters and felt just a sad inevitability of the situation and how it would be resolved.

A book about relationships, love and the choices we make. The book just flows and the format of alternating points of view works very well, seeing things from the perspective of the differing characters.
As ever the author has a knack of describing emotions and how the characters are feeling and conversations are beautifully and believably written. It makes it easy to get into the minds of the main characters .
I found this book engaging and eminently readable although I didn't find myself quite as emotionally involved as with his previous novels.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

With FROM SOMETHING OLD, Nick Alexander tells the story of two couples, Heather and Anthony & Amy and Joe, who bring their children on a vacation to Spain. While the couples do not know one another well, their children are friends and the parents believe this getaway will be an opportunity for something new and interesting as well as a welcome escape. The trip proves to be all of that and far more than that, causing permanent, wrenching chasms from the well-tended and ignored cracks in long-term relationships. The aftermath of that ill-conceived getaway is told well, feeling true and ultimately uplifting as real life challenges. I enjoyed the characters, the writing, the realistic children, all the large and small moments during a truly difficult time for everyone. I received an advance reader copy of this novel from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review.

Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to review 'From Something Old by Nick Alexander as an Advance Reader Copy.

From Something Old is the first novel I have read by Nick Alexander, but it won't be the last. I loved it from beginning to end.

The lives of two couples, Ant and Heather and Joe and Amy, randomly begin to intertwine, with perhaps unforeseen consequences. Initially brought together by their children who are at the same school `and despite them barely knowing one another, they decide to holiday together in Spain, and there begins the sometimes distressing journey for them all.

The author creates his characters well, and I warmed to those who were endearing, whilst wanting to yell at the ones who were annoying and mean! Often in life, we are the way we are because of our parents and/or the way we have been brought up, and Nick Alexander explores this in detail with the characters he brings to life.

From Something Old is a lovely read, ideal if you have a few hours to spare and you can switch off, with your feet up and immerse yourself in the story.

I absolutely loved this book, start to finish I could not put it down. I have to say this is easily the best book I've read this year and I've read alot. Nick Alexander is amazing he writes the most beautiful stories. There were parts I felt really emotional, I cried but I also laughed out loud. The ending was perfect even though I was really sad to turn the last page. The kind of book you never want to end

Four characters, four stories.
Is there a connection between our lives with our parents and our experiences when we're adults?
Heather and Ant, and Joe and Amy are two couples. They navigate through their lives without major issues. But, are they satisfied with what they have? Do they want more from life? Do they want more from.love? Would they try for a change willingly?
This is a very well written story. The characters are so well developed, that even when they are openly in the wrong, the reader is willing to understand and excuse them for whatever damage they're inflicting.
It was a very nice read. I'm sure I will be reading more from this author in the future. As for now, if you haven't already read anything from Nick Alexander, don't miss the chance and start with this book. You'll be not disappointed.

Thank you Netgalley for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Love Nick Alexander’s novels, always an easy read and I never want to put them down. This one was extra special as it touched on familiar ground. Touches on sensitive subject matter, some briefly, other in a little more detail, but how it’s done, is carefully. Recommend reading this, from sad situations good prevails.

This is my first book by Nick Alexander and I really enjoyed it!

Two couples, Heather & Anthony and Amy & Joe and (who only know one another because one of Heather and Anthony’s daughters is friends with Amy & Joe’s son) go on holiday together to Spain. It doesn’t quite go to plan for all of them. The story is told from the narratives of each of the characters. I don’t always like this way of writing as I read using a Kindle and sometimes have to go back to the beginning of a chapter to see who’s talking! I wish Kindle would put the chapter title at the top of the page to help keep my ageing brain up to speed - this would really help when authors flip back and forth in timelines too! But I digress.......

It’s interesting to read what, in my opinion, would probably be classified as a chick-lit book, written by a man! But Nick Alexander certainly seems to understand women or possibly he has studied psychology! The characters are interesting and have depth and we get to know all of their back stories, which naturally have made them the kind of people they have turned out to be.

There wasn’t anything I didn’t expect or anticipate in the book but that didn’t detract from what was, for me, a lovely feel good, karma-filled book and I’d definitely read another of this author’s books.

My thanks go to the author, the publishers and NetGalley for a an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

It was great to receive an ARC from NetGalley
This was a great book and an easy and addictive read. The characters were well defined all looking for love in their own way. It describes two couples with similar aged children who seem to just be plodding along in life and accepting second rate relationships. Each couple have their own issues of control, anger and being bullies.
I got into the book very quickly and this summer read has rekindled my love of reading again after some poor book choices.

This book introduces two couples and the story is mostly narrated by Heather, who’s partner is Anthony, and Joe who is married to Amy. Very occasionally we gain a little insight into the reasons behind Amy’s actions through a brief stint of narration.
The background is set very well before the main event of the story which is a holiday. Weirdly these two couples don’t really know each other before jetting off together. Two of their children are friends which is the strongest link between these neighbours.
I did not feel that I identified with any of the characters and yet this book is written in such a way that I really felt that I knew and understood each of them by the end.
This book is definitely an emotional investment worth making. I would highly recommend it especially if you have yet to experience the writing of Nick Alexander. This is the first book by this author that I personally have had the pleasure to read. Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read in advance in exchange for an honest review.

This is such a thought- provoking book. I found myself wondering how many couples just meander along aimlessly in the wrong marriage/relationship because nothing provokes them enough into taking real stock of their situation and dealing with it.
The main players are so well drawn; Heather and the detestable Ant, where the minutiae of their day to day lives is portrayed in intimate detail; and hard- working Joe and his impossible-to-please wife Amy, endlessly searching for the ‘magic’ solution to life in her self- help books and theories.
How their lives intertwine, then ultimately collide is an intriguing and very relatable story, skilfully told by the author. The children from both couples go with the flow, as the author captures the inherent resilience of youngsters, who fortunately all get on well together.
I was hooked from the first page, and really enjoyed following the strands of the story to find out how these four very different people contInued their lives after the great Spanish holiday debacle.
The ending was somewhat predictable, but how the four adults got there made for an excellent and enjoyable story. Nick Alexander does not disappoint.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy of this title.

From Something Old was a lovely read. Two couples, both struggling. Heather and Ant and Joe and Amy. Heather is trapped in a miserable marriage with a critical and controlling husband. Amy is never happy and nothing Joe does is good enough. When circumstances bring the two couples together on a Spanish holiday, all their lives are turned upside down when Heather discovers Amy and Ant in a compromising position.

When they return to their lives, neither couple is together. Whilst Heather thrives without her overbearing husband dragging her down, Joe is not faring as well. He turns to the booze and plans to move away. But fate has other plans, and he's forced to stay.

Without spoiling this gorgeous story, all I'll say is that sometimes the worst of times lead to the best of times if you're prepared to take a chance after heartbreak.

Four people looking for love. Four choices that could be the start of everything.

At thirty-three, nurse Heather is desperately waiting for her romantic life to begin. Then she meets handsome, strong Anthony and is sure she’s found the one. Brushing any doubts aside, she projects all her hopes for true love onto him.
Meanwhile, at a yoga retreat in Spain, happy-go-lucky Joe can’t believe his luck when he meets vivacious, witty Amy. She’s the sharpest, most beautiful woman he has ever dated, and the fact that she’s interested in him feels like a dream come true.
But new love can be blind, and when the two couples meet, the cracks are easy to see.
Will their crossed paths lead the way to happiness? Or are they all destined for heartbreak?

I actually really ended up loving this book although in the beginning I wasn't sure. It took a while for the characters and the story arc to build. It really gets to the heart of the family and how communication really is key. If you're not being honest with your partner about who you are and what you want from life things will always feel forced and difficult.

Nick Alexander’s books always really get the details of a boring family life and make it interesting and he doesn’t add in a lot of fluff that really isn't needed.

I really got on board with these two families and couldn't wait to see how it would all pan out. A really enjoyable, light and entertaining read.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book

From Something Old by Nick Alexander is a fascinating, complex book about two married couples - Ant and Heather, Amy and Joe - what happens when they're thrown together on holiday and the aftermath. The author takes the voice of each of the four characters in turn, giving you an insight into the story from all sides. Its a story of mistakes and betrayal, gaslighting and naivety, but also of love and acceptance - all handled sensitively and in such a way that they add depth to the characters and integrity to the plot.
From Something Old is a slow-burn but picks up pace as you get to know the characters. A great read and one I'll recommend to others.
With thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A good read following the complex personalities of 2 couple, each with seemingly polar opposite attitudes and morals who end up holidaying together in Spain through their childrens friendship and then watch as their worlds fall apart.
The characters in this book were easy to hate (Amy and Anthony) and to love (Heather and Joe) and their personalities are really well developed throughout the book. I struggled a bit to believe anyone would be desperate enough to go on holiday somewhere so isolated with complete strangers but I guess if your own relationship is faltering it may seem like a good idea!
Plenty of ups and downs throughout with a lovely ending.

I couldn’t wait to read this as I have enjoyed all of Nicks other books. I was not disappointed. He always creates great characters that you warm to. He also has a great insight into human nature and the way people’s minds work.
It starts off as quite a sad story really but Khama is served in a subtle but satisfying way. He doesn’t make any one person look like the bad guy as the book shows everything from different characters perspectives so you get an understanding of their psyche and how their lives journeys have made them what they are.
My only regret here was reading the book so quick but I just couldn’t help it. Now I will have to wait for him to written another one. Well done again Nick!

I am terrible for buying those 99p Kindle deals and have seven of @authornickalexander's books currently unread on my Kindle. I am in for a treat as I can spend summer backtracking and reading them. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and @authornickalexander for his most recent book 'From Something Old'. I loved the concept of two couples who apparently don't know each other that much, brought together through the friendships of their respective children and deciding to take a holiday in Spain. Heather and Ant are meandering along; Ant, thoroughly unlikeable, is controlling and dogmatic. Heather has become used to Ant's criticism and finding a similar pattern in the relationship of Joe and Amy, she realises just how utterly soul destroying loveless relationships are. Serious subjects such as infidelity, emotional abuse and depression are covered but, there are some really funny scenes and some memorable lines. I particularly liked the significance of the title 'From Something Old' and the image of, that with Lego as with other things, sometimes it is necessary to take something old apart to make something new.

Overall I enjoyed reading this book, but it often left me feeling quite sad while reading it. This book follows 2 couples who appear happy on the surface, but underneath, there are so many layers of self-doubt. There were so many thought-provoking moments in this book. Do our parents play a role in how we treat others? Is it ok to pursue happiness at the expense of hurting someone else? Do we settle for manipulation in relationships because we feel undeserving of a storybook romance? I loved Nick Alexander's writing style; I was captured on the first page and look forward to reading more of his books.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

At first this seemed like so many chick-lit novels but part way thru it really came to life. It was very easy to identify with Heather and see how gradually she lost herself in her marriage. In fact although some of the situations are slightly exaggerated they are, in fact, very good illustrations of what at first is compromise becomes subservience.
Whilst examining some interesting themes throughout the book the ending was boringly predictable.

Very easy to read book that I enjoyed. Ups & downs of two families that go away on holiday together & the fall out when things do not go as planned. A happy ending eventually.

From Something Old by Nick Alexander tells the story of two couples in unhappy marriages who holiday together to please their children Ben and Lucy. Heather and Anthony (Lucy's parents) accept the invitation of Amy and Joe (Ben's parents) to holiday with them in a Spanish Villa. This is a romantic story that will keep you turning the pages as the story unfolds and the relationships are laid bare in each other's company.. As with his other works, Nick Alexander has a way of keeping you engaged even when you know which direction the story is heading. The characters are very well crafted which make them real and memorable. The story deals with love, parenthood, friendship, communication, and all the intricacies of family life. This book is so well written that it will provide many hours of book club discussion or just as an engaging book to be enjoyed quietly.

I really enjoyed "From something old"; it's a family drama with some fascinating characters. My absolute favourite part is the opening description of the origins of Heather's relationship with Ant: the slow, insidious creep of awfulness until it's impossible to escape, like a frog in a pan of water on a stove. Really skillful writing there.

I was surprised by some of the narrative choices, particularly chapter length at the start. Turns out, Nick Alexander is the type of writer who knows the rules but breaks them anyway: it shouldn't work, but it does!

I would have liked even more romance and "will they/ won't they" in the final part, but that which is there doesn't disappoint!

Every time I read a book by Nick Alexander, I always think to myself: "I need to read everything he's ever published!”

"From Something Old" tells the story of two couples who think they know what true love is, but are actually very unhappy. Day by day, they try to ignore all their problems, but it's clear that eventually the truth will come to light. And that's when everything explodes, all at once.

I love the way the author describes their thoughts and feelings, because it seems real to me. It doesn't feel forced or exaggerated. I love how things take time to happen, it's not all miraculously solved overnight. The ending can be predictable but it still surprised me a bit. It was interesting to see their growth. I truly enjoyed this book!

(Ps: Ant's mother, though… pure hell. lol)

* I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Really enjoyed this story and the twists it brought, some fun, laughter, tears and pure emotion throughout.

Four people find their lives entwined when their paths cross as a result of their children's friendships. A plan to go on holiday together at the whim of one of the wives results in changes to their lives they could not have imagined and overturns everything they thought and felt about each other.

A great story exploring each of the characters and their flaws.

Every book i read of Nick Alexander's is beautiful. Such a fabulous writer that really draws you into each character and the toils and troubles that affect their lives.

A story of love and betrayal.

I first want to thank the author, the publisher and #netgalley for the ARC. This did not impact my review.

This was my first book by this author but it will not be my last. This book was amazing. It started with the "backstory" of the characters.. You really felt like you were inside this marriage and inside the minds of some of the characters. Then these two couples go on vacation - you think you see what's coming, but you really don't. I think I might have said "wow" out loud a few times. or "no way".

The author did an amazing job of character development and I really felt like I was in Spain on vacation with these couples - in the sunny, hot, oppressive atmosphere. Excellent writing. This book kept me turning the pages all night..

This book got me in all my feels
My what a read. I was sceptical about this book but as i read the more intriguing the plot became and the characters began to unravel which was amazing. I loved our main characters but i especially loved how the author gave each character a voice except for Ant whom i would love to know what went on in his mind tho.
I'd totally recommend this book to anyone looking for that Summer Read to curl up with a drink by the side.

This was surprisingly good. A tale of marital breakdown and relationships being re-built. Written from four people's perspectives. Gripping enough to follow the story without becoming confused. Felt current with lots of culturally relevant references. Well written...enough romance and spice without becoming crude, enough twists to avoid being entirely predictable, great imagery throughout. An enjoyable and believable read!

This novel is written from 4 peoples viewpoints but is well written and is not confusing.
Go on holiday with all the characters and explore all there different characters.
Another excellent novel by Nick Alexander.
Thanks to #NetGalley for the advance copy in return for an honest review

What a fantastic read, a great story with great charecters, love all of nicks books and this is another one that didn't disappoint, off to find the next read of his

Well researched book. Easy to get into, with well written characters. Heartwarming ending. An enjoyable easy read.
My thanks to Net galley the publisher and the author for allowing me to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this in return for an honest review.
A tale of 2 relationships, drifting on and wasting time for some and some never happy and appreciating what they have. An interesting story of how the 2 couples and their children's lives intertwine, i felt myself really wanting a happy ending for 2 of them. No spoilers here though! recommended book and author, I'll definitely seek out more of his books
#FromSomethingOld #NetGalley

This novel is about two ill-suited couples with a young family, whose lives change dramatically after holidaying together in Spain. I found the characters believable and the themes relatable, but the story itself overly predictable and not that absorbing. Not exactly a page-turner but a well-written, thoughtful and relaxing read to dip in and out of.

An intriguing occurrence in the opening pages kept me reading, however it was all a bit too predictable. Though the essence of ‘being transported into the book’ hovered around, I was never able to truly get to know any character or feel a depth to them.

A really good read .I really enjoyed this book it told of troubled relationships and had some interesting if troubled characters. Would recommend it ,was a first for me by this writer but will definitely look forward to reading some more of his books

From Something Old is a unique story that alternates from the points-of-view of Heather and Joe. It starts with the origin of both Heather and Joe’s relationships, then follows them as they go through about a year of relationship and personal dilemmas. I had a hard time getting into the book at first, but as I kept reading, I got more and more invested in Heather and Joe’s lives. The story is clever and I enjoyed reading the story from multiple perspectives.

Thanksto both Netgalley and the Publisher. I have like everything MNick Alexander has written and this was no exception. Great story with super characters, I really enjoyedreading it. Thank you.

An enjoyable book with a story told from several different character's points of view. Quite an easy read and recommended

As always, Nick Alexander does not disappoint with this latest novel. I have always enjoyed his books in the past and this one was not exception. This is a lighthearted, easy read and I delved into it, finishing it in a couple of days. The characters are easy to imagine, relatable and mostly likeable, except for Ant, I don't think anyone likes him! This is the story of 2 couples, brought together by their young kids, and soon becomes a completely different dynamic when they decide to holiday together in Spain. Although I did guess the outcome, it was still a nice read and highly recommended, especially if you have been a fan of his past books.

Really good book from Nick Alexander - again!
Heather and Joe are both in relationships which are difficult. They meet under strange circumstances and end up on holiday together where their lives fall apart.
Really good story where I felt for each of the characters and was completely invested.
Really good book!

This was such a beautiful book and am certainly going to read more by this author This was a very insightful book focussing on why people shouldn’t feel they need to settle for second best and that sometimes live can take an unexpected turn. This is no normal romance story and covers lots of topics in a very sensitive and poignant way from controlling and verbal abuse in relationships and break down of marriages The then running throughout is that someone new can be achieved from breaking the chain of something old and moving forward and that old habits and situations can be changed into new and more happier ones for all concerned.

This book made me laugh and cry at several parts and I found the characters to be very relatable and Warmed to heather and joe in particular and was rooting for them throughout.

I read this book in just over a day as once I started reading I couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 15 July 2021
I absolutely loved this book! To begin with, reading from Heather’s perspective, I thought it was going to be an uncomfortable dark read but as I continued reading I learned it was going to take me on an inquisitive adventure.
Nick Alexander has such a wonderful talent to portray insightful character view points that keep the reading guessing what could be coming next!
The story unfolds with Heather’s miserable and intolerable life with her husband, she is existing but not living the life she deserves. Fate deals her a unusual hand which turns her life around completely and finally provides her with the comfort and attention she dearly needs.
I am always impressed with the author’s style of writing and this book doesn’t disappoint, the reader is invited to listen to the inner thoughts and feelings of all four main characters in such an intense manner.
Well worth a read!

Another great read from Nick Alexander. A story told from several different view points definitely keeps you on your toes and reminds you that nothing is ever that simple. But it's well written, flows beautifully and keeps you rushing from page to page until you are sorry to find..... It's the last one!

Heather meets Ant (Anthony) and they end up together, although it is clear quite early on that he is controlling and she is not assertive enough to stick up for herself. Amy and Joe get married, even though she is selfish and never seems satisfied with what she has.

Years later, having met through their children, the couples end up on holiday in Spain together and it is there that things take a dramatic turn, causing Heather and Joe to reassess what they really want. And, as it turns out, that may not mean going back to what they had settled for.

Nick Alexander writes realistically about these relationships, in particular how Ant takes over Heather's life and asserts his control, diminishing her sense of worth and causing her to hate him in the process. His mother is a piece of work, to put it mildly, and very well written as a character.

Amy is the dominant partner in her marriage, but has major issues of her own that relate to her childhood; these come to light later on and explain a lot about why she ends up the way she is, although it doesn't excuse her behaviour. Joe's dad, on the other hand, is lovely.

I felt this novel explained toxic relationships very well and how difficult it can be to escape from them; also, the impact this has on the wider family. Toxicity is shown as coming from a parent-child as well as an intimate relationship. Ant channels the negativity learned from his mother - someone else who is never satisfied - into belittling and undermining Heather.

Positive relationships are also highlighted - Joe's father is the opposite of Ant's mother, always looking to build people up rather than diminish them and this rubs off on his son who has learned to treat others and their feelings with respect.

What is particularly gratifying as events progress is that Heather discovers a sense of self-worth and learns to move on with her life. Joe's struggles are also well conveyed and he too is able to move forward. Amy and Ant are not nice people, but Amy at least is heading in the right direction by the time the story finishes. We are left in no doubt that Ant will never change.

Having not read any books by him before, Nick Alexander is an author I will return to.

I was sent an advance review copy of this book by Amazon Publishing UK, in return for an honest appraisal.

An engaging story about love and relationships and how things can appear different on the surface than they are in reality. We never know what goes on behind closed doors and this book makes that clear. Vivid characterisation and some beautiful descriptions of settings from this talented author. Five stars!

Not sure why, but struggled to fully get into this one. Had trouble connecting with the characters and ended up skipping over parts. Maybe just me, but not my cup of tea. Perhaps just too many stories running together.

If I’m honest, I found this book somewhat difficult to get into to start with, as there were so many plot changes in time, scene and character. I couldn’t easily keep up with who was who, but I eventually got there! The characters divide into those you love, those you hate and those you feel completely indifferent to! Nick Alexander writes in an insightful way from a woman’s point of view which I found interesting to discover. It was easy to see how best to rearrange the two couples so their relationships would work, so in many respects the story was predictable, but this didn’t seem to detract from my enjoyment. In the denouement, justice was certainly done!

This is one of those books you’re sorry to say goodbye too and just don’t want to end. I’m missing the characters already. I mimic other reviews when they say it was like watching a film – and what a great film it would be!

The story follows Heather, who hasn’t had much experience with relationships. She meets and marries charming Ant and have 2 daughters together. But Ant turns out to be a complete bully and puts Heather down at every opportunity.

The offer of a holiday to Spain away with their neighbours, Amy & Joe, offers Heather a chance of a break away without the hostile mother-in-law. Whilst they are all away events take an unpredictable turn and gives Heather the chance to start life again without Ant.

A real page-turner and fabulous book. Highly recommended. The only reason I have given 4 stars is I guessed the story-line very near the beginning of the book – but this in no way made the book any less enjoyable.

Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this book in return for a honest and unbiased review.

Really enjoyed this.
I am a huge fan of Nick Alexander and the style of writing.
This book didn't disappoint. Very thought provoking and emotional. All in all a great read

Really enjoyed this book, liked the way the story played out, well written, another great read from Nick Alexander. Would definitely recommend this book

This is a new author for me and I love his writing style. He is able to dissect relationships and look at them with close scrutiny. His characters are beautiful.
Many thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

The book was quite interesting but didn’t captivate me as I expected it to.

Heather has lived with Anthony for ten years or so and they have two girls but he is a control freak and Heather has no life if things are not right Ant will not be nice. We have Joe & Amy who have Ben and have been together for fifteen years. Amy is always wanting to change things like become vegan and it feels as though she is the one in charge of their life’s.

They all go on holiday together to Spain as Joe’s Dad was meant to go and the villa they have is too big for just the three of them. The holiday seems to make them realise there is cracks in their relationship.

The book seemed a bit long winded I did enjoy it and hopefully there is a nice ending.

I thoroughly enjoyed this. It was an easy and beautiful read with strong characters and a great storyline. I didn't want it to end.

Highly recommended and well deserves 5 stars.

Thank you Netgalley.

Wow, what a read, I love Nick Alexander and this book did not disappoint. Such a beautiful story. I did not want this book to end.

Two families Heather, Anthony and their girls and Amy, Joe and their son Ben.

Anthony is handsome, charming and abusive, Heather is unconfident, unhappy and controlled. One of their daughters Lucy is best friends with Ben.

Amy is beautiful and troubled, Joe is always trying to please Amy and keep up with her ever increasing whims.

They decide to go on holiday together but each couple hardly know one another. What follows rocks everything and their lives fall apart and the cracks in their respective relationships are fully exposed.

This was so well written allowing you to see from the different characters perspectives. It was unputdownable and I loved the ending.

From Something Old by Nick Alexander was another beautifully written book I loved it from beginning to end. This
book is about two ill-suited couples, Heather & Anthony and Amy & Joe, whose lives change dramatically after holidaying together in Spain. This book is great for a holiday read and all the characters were brilliant

I highly recommend this book.

Big thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the arc in return for an honest review.

Reviewed on goodreads and amazon and thanked the publisher and #netgalley for the opportunity. I'm sorry I didn't realise I could do it here.

The chapters where horribly long, drawling on ...about them, their familiy and what not. It was too much info dump the first chapters and i hated it. This just was not for me.

Perfectly readable family drama; I finished it quite quickly and found myself engrossed in the characters’ lives. I was very keen on certain characters getting their comeuppance but the whole thing lacked surprise. It’s comfortingly predictable. No twists, but serviceable entertainment.

Another excellent novel from Nick Alexander, featuring four people: Heather, Joe, Amy, and Ant. A masterclass in juggling different POVs in one novel - I sometimes struggle reading books like that, but I didn't here.
A joy to read - thanks for the ARC.

A nice easy read with well developed characters. Felt quite slow at times and the chapters are a tad too long.

Wow! This book was absolutely fabulous! 5 stars!
This is the first book I have read by Nick Alexander and I cannot believe I haven't discovered his incredible talent for writing until now! This story was funny but also full of drama. The characters were described so well, I felt like I knew them and Nick's style of writing is excellent. The story flowed perfectly and I loved that each chapter was from a different characters perspective.
This book is the perfect summer read. It only took me two sittings to finish this book as I just couldn't put it down. A refreshing and funny read that I would highly recommend. Now I will get stuck into Nick's other books as I am addicted!
Thank you to Nick Alexander, Net Galley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to read and review this book.

A quick and easy read that I found myself picking up after a long day to unwind. The characters are beautifully written and I came to love them within the first few pages and was rooting for them all the way to the end. At times I wanted to stop reading because I just wanted the experience to go on for longer.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed this book, even when it flagged a little in the second half. I liked the way the story was told, through alternating couples. The trip to Spain exposed all the problems each couple had, not in a good way. I recommend this book, 4 stars.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed as in this review are completely my own.