by Jennifer Harris
Troubador Publishing

book review by Amanda Hanson

“He must know that a diamond bracelet would not solve their crisis.”

Marian and Jason have been married for over twenty years and have two adult children, Olivia and Mark. Marian discovers that Jason cheated on her during a business trip to Sydney, a realization triggered by hearing the laughter of another woman on a phone call. Feeling deeply betrayed, Marian still decides to take a trip with Jason to Paris in the hope of saving their marriage. They have visited the city several times before. While working on their relationship, Marian is confronted with painful memories, including the loss of their unborn child many years ago. During this time in Paris, she is also organizing a vernissage with her art colleague and friend, Stephanie. As Marian navigates her marital issues, she finds herself juggling both personal struggles and professional responsibilities.

In her novel, Harris delves into the themes of adultery and betrayal, creating a compelling narrative for readers. Through the character of Marian, readers gain insight into her relationship with her husband. The author conveys Marian’s feelings of rage and betrayal, allowing readers to connect with her on a deeper emotional level. One pivotal moment in the story is the phone call that makes Marian realize her husband’s infidelity. Harris emphasizes this phone call and the emotions it evokes in Marian, which creates a vivid mental image of that specific event. Furthermore, the author explores the loss of trust that occurs after being cheated on and the difficulty of rebuilding that trust. Harris skillfully discusses this complex process throughout the narrative. As a result, readers who have faced similar situations can empathize with Marian and understand her emotions. Those who have experienced marital challenges will find themselves relating to the characters. Readers will appreciate this book for its many twists and turns, which help make it an engaging and thought-provoking read.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review