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The Ambassador's Wife

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Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility meets Mark Twain’s The Prince and the Pauper in a tale about twin sisters with switched identities.

Twin Sisters, Kate Stanley and Jennifer Barrett, could not have been more different, nor have lived opposite lives. While Kate pursued her career to earn a doctorate in history, Jennifer chose romance and married her college sweetheart. Now, five years later, Kate is an accomplished history professor at New York University, while Jennifer is the ambassador’s wife. But when Jennifer suddenly goes missing, it’s up to Kate to step into Jennifer’s world and pose as the ambassador’s wife, in order to divert a scandal and save her sister. As Kate assumes Jennifer’s identity, she must learn how to adjust to her new role as the ambassador’s wife, both publicly and privately. She must publicly display the image of the ever supportive and dutiful wife, while surviving the internal turmoil within the walls of the estate, sparked by the embassy staff. But most importantly, she must also convince the world that she is madly in love with her new husband, the ambassador…

John Barrett is the U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye and has been married to Jennifer for five years. While the world perceives them to be the ideal happy couple, behind the iron curtain, nothing could be further from the truth. Sex, lies, lust and betrayal have plagued the Barretts’ marriage for years. Pretending to love one another in public, while hating each other in private, became a reality John only knew too well. But when Kate assumes Jennifer’s identity, pretending to love Kate surprisingly becomes easier. The mandatory state dinners suddenly become tolerable; perhaps, even rather enjoyable. The forced smiles feel more genuine. And the staged kisses ignite a burning sensation deep within his heart, that leaves him bewildered. The art of pretending has slowly become less of a demanding trivial task, and has evolved into something more authentic and real. In a world rooted in political theater, where hate can easily be disguised for love, and love for hate, when does the fine line between pretending to love end and falling in love begin?

520 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 27, 2023

12 people are currently reading
3982 people want to read

About the author

Kristina Stangl

9 books63 followers
*** If interested on receiving an ARC to my future books, then please email me at info@kristinastangl.com to sign up.***

Kristina Stangl is an American author. She was born and raised in San Francisco, California, USA. She holds a Master's degree in Public Administration, MPA; a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations, with a minor in Middle East and Islamic Studies from San Francisco State University; along with Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) credentials from the University of Toronto, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.

Before writing her first novel, Kristina previously worked in both the public and private sectors, having served in the United States federal government for nine years. In addition to writing, Kristina enjoys traveling across the globe and visiting famous and historical sites, which she documents on her social media accounts. To date, she has traveled to over thirteen countries, three continents, and speaks three languages.

When Kristina is not traveling or writing, she's at home experimenting with baking new desserts, pies and other sweet treats.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for Ella Droste.
Author 1 book42 followers
October 2, 2023
Oh, my! What an interesting and engaging read! The author's character development game is stroooong! You'll get here a perfect blend of family drama, mystery, and suspense. The plot flows smoothly, and the intricasies of the twin main characters are portrayed perfectly.

The first half of the book definitely felt a bit slower, but after that, the plot picks up a nice pace. Even so, everything felt necessary, so it's not slow just for the sake of it.

The most interesting part for me was the progressive development of relationships in the plot. Kristina Stangl manages to flawlessly capture the essence of that with Kate and John, and it all feels very natural and comfortable. The plot's mystery and intrigue are perfectly done, and they'll keep you engrossed until the very end.

This was a thrilling read and I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys emotional books with character-driven plots.

Many thanks for the advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Dipa.
760 reviews15 followers
August 11, 2023
"The Ambassador's Wife" by Kristina Stangl is an amazing tale that beautifully underscores the significance of love in a relationship. The narrative masterfully illustrates that regardless of wealth, success, or appearance, a loving heart and supportive arms are what truly matter in the end.

The crux of the story revolves around twin sisters Jennifer and Kate, who only differ in the color of their hair - Jennifer's blond like the sun, and Kate's resembling the moon. The marriage between John and Jennifer is more a union of convenience than genuine love. John rushes into marriage to secure credibility as an Ambassador, while Jennifer seeks a life of luxury on her terms. However, their mismatched motivations create immediate challenges as they face the demands of protocol and John's work commitments.

Jennifer's lack of interest in John's passions and aspirations leads to misunderstandings. As John dedicates himself to his role, Jennifer feels lonely and embarks on extramarital affairs. Though aware of her actions, John never questioned her, remains focused on his work, ultimately distancing himself from her. In the midst of seeking fulfillment outside her marriage, she realizes that a loving husband and children are what truly complete her and she didn't feel complete with John.

As their marriage crumbles, the divorce process unfolds, and a mysterious note disrupts the situation. Jennifer's disappearance adds intrigue to the story, especially given her previous desire to escape the restrictive life at the mansion. To ensure the ambassador's social life remained seamless, they opted to replace Jennifer with Kate. Upon learning that her sister was missing, Kate readily agreed, driven by her concern for her sibling.

The narrative takes an unexpected twist as Kate slips into her sister's shoes, navigating the challenging role of an Ambassador's wife. The chemistry between Kate and John ignites, and she even saves him from an attempted attack. While playing the role, Kate uncovers hints of a conspiracy brewing within the mansion.

Jennifer's return adds another layer of complexity as she reveals shocking truths to Kate. The character development and narrative pacing are exceptional, drawing readers into the story's emotional depths. However, a more thorough exploration of John's perspective during his time with Jennifer could have enhanced readers' understanding of his character.

In conclusion, "The Ambassador's Wife" is a well-crafted narrative that underscores the importance of love, connection, and understanding in a relationship. Kristina Stangl's storytelling prowess shines through as she weaves a tale of secrets, personal growth, and the complexities of human emotions.
322 reviews5 followers
August 15, 2023
BOOK: The Ambassador’s Wife
AUTHOR: Kristina Stangl
GENRE: Suspense and Romance Fiction

RATING:
Storyline: 4.3/5
Literature: 3.6/5

PLOT:
Jennifer Stanley and Kate Stanley are identical twins but that is where their similarity stops. While Jennifer is interested in the materialistic pleasures of life and wants to marry rich, Kate on the other hand wants to focus on her career and make it big in her professional sphere. Jennifer manifested her wishes and married a US ambassador, John Barrett who happens to be the heir of Barrett empire. Kate ended up fulfilling her dreams and is working as a history professor at New York University.

Five years later, Jennifer goes missing from Istanbul where John has been posted as an Ambassador to Turkiye. To avoid a major public scandal, Kate was roped in to take the place of Jennifer while the investigation for Jennifer goes on in the background.
Lots of skeletons come tumbling out during the investigation. Was Jennifer kidnapped or did she run away? Is something sinister going on in Istanbul?

VERDICT:
Pros:
1. The storyline is captivating from the word go. I loved how the author set the context of the plot from the first chapter itself when Jennifer and Kate’s grandmother predicted their whirlwind future through tasseography (reading coffee beans). This made me curious as a reader about how the times ahead for the twins unfold.

2. The author did a commendable job of bringing out the contrasting nature of the twins through their idiosyncratic answers. While Jennifer is very brand conscious and strives to be always prim and proper, Kate is more inclined towards comfortable clothing which does not come with any labels. Most importantly, Jennifer’s love for diamonds and Kate’s love for pearls form a vital part of the storyline.

3. The plot has the right mix of suspense, drama, scandals, and romance which makes it unputdownable and an absolute page-turner. The scandals have been humorously depicted through the diplomatic incidents sparking rows between the countries while the drama has been shown to unfold in John and Jennifer’s married life.

Cons:
Though the language and the prose employed are impeccable I was surprised when I came across grammatical errors and incorrect words mentioned in certain sentences which stood out in a glaring manner amidst the fluid vocabulary.
I loved the storyline and the prose so much hence I deducted my scores only in the Literature section.

Overall, a highly enjoyable and compelling read which I would like to recommend to all types of readers.
Profile Image for Partha Pratim.
766 reviews22 followers
August 9, 2023
Firstly, huge respect and great appreciation to the author Kristina Stangl for writing on this beautiful series of master piece. This is a captivating and suspenseful novel that masterfully weaves together the lives of twin sisters, Kate Stanley and Jennifer Barrett, against the backdrop of international politics and personal intrigue. The story unfolds with the disappearance of Jennifer Barrett, the ambassador's wife, under mysterious circumstances. As the narrative unfolds, Kate Stanley, a history professor, finds herself thrust into a world of political drama and hidden secrets as she assumes her sister's identity to avert a scandal. Stangl beautifully captures the stark contrast between Kate's academic world and the opulent, yet tumultuous, life within the embassy. Grab a copy of this book to explore more.

The storyline showcases remarkable character growth, particularly through Kate's evolution from a shy scholar into a convincing diplomat, a transition that feels genuine and captivating. Jennifer's intricate connection with her spouse, Ambassador John Barrett, introduces layers of suspense and emotional complexity. John's inner turmoil as he grapples with his genuine emotions and the facade he upholds publicly brings depth to the narrative, especially as his relationship with Kate undergoes transformation.

What I was impressed with the most was the flow of the writing! Everything is gelled together seamlessly.
The author's technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift.

Overall, I loved the book and strongly recommend fellow readers to give it a try. And lastly, I'd thank the man who edited this cover, else it would have taken more or less months to come across the read, post finishing the other books of my collection.
55 reviews2 followers
August 16, 2023
"The Ambassador's Wife" by Kristina Stangl is a captivating novel that weaves an intricate tale of deception, love, and self-discovery. The story follows the contrasting lives of twin sisters, Kate Stanley and Jennifer Barrett, whose paths diverge drastically – one embracing academia, the other diplomatic high society. When Jennifer vanishes unexpectedly, Kate steps into her sister's shoes, assuming the role of the ambassador's wife to prevent a scandal. The author skillfully delves into the complexities of identity and the sacrifices one must make for family.

The author masterfully creates an atmosphere of intrigue, skillfully blurring the lines between pretense and authenticity as Kate navigates the treacherous world of diplomacy. The exploration of the contrasting public and private lives of the characters adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the mask that often conceals reality. The evolution of John Barrett, the U.S. Ambassador, is particularly engrossing, as he transitions from begrudging tolerance to unexpected emotional connection.

The author vividly painted the opulent settings and the emotional turmoil of the characters. The themes of love, betrayal, and self-discovery are expertly intertwined, keeping readers engaged until the last page. The book raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of love, the masks we wear, and the fine line between pretense and genuine emotion.

Among the cast of compelling characters, my favorite has to be Kate Stanley. Her transformation from a reserved history professor to a resilient ambassador's wife is truly captivating. Her internal struggles, determination, and growth make her a relatable and inspiring protagonist. "The Ambassador's Wife" is an enthralling novel that skillfully explores the complexities of human relationships, identity, and the power of love, all set against a backdrop of political intrigue.
Profile Image for Madiha Reads.
865 reviews15 followers
August 16, 2023
The lives of twin sisters Kate Stanley and Jennifer Barrett are expertly woven together in this gripping and exciting book against the backdrop of global politics and private intrigue. The narrative starts with Jennifer Barrett, the ambassador's wife, mysteriously disappearing. As the novel progresses, history professor Kate Stanley, who is assuming her sister's identity to prevent a scandal, finds herself drawn into a world of political intrigue and untold stories. The sharp contrast between Kate's world of academia and the lavish yet turbulent life inside the embassy is masterfully captured by the author.

One of the book's most fascinating aspects is how it explores identity and human growth. The transformation of Kate from an academic preoccupied with her job to a woman navigating the subtleties of high society is both fascinating and realistic. Her internal conflict over how to balance honesty with the demands of her new profession lends her character depth, making her someone readers can relate to and root for. The plot takes several unanticipated turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The author expertly manoeuvres through the intricate web of deceit that surrounds the political sphere. It was the writing's fluidity that most pleased me. Each component works perfectly with the others.

It's a talent of the author's to develop compelling plotlines and raw, captivating characters. As the necessary state dinners and political theatre are beautifully described, the reader will feel completely engrossed in the story. Fans of thrilling and moving storytelling should definitely read it because of the well-developed characters, complex plot, and thought-provoking issues.
Profile Image for Niveditha Preeth.
295 reviews1 follower
August 16, 2023
The Ambassador's Wife offers an interesting blend of mystery, love, politics, romance and incredible storytelling. The prologue was so intriguing, it immediately drew me into the story. Especially the scene where Kate's and Jenny's grandma reads their destiny.

I couldn't help but be captivated by the twin characters and their complex relationship. The author skillfully presents a compelling comparison between the twin characters, unraveling their intricate personalities with every turn of the page.

John's character perfectly portrayed the life of an important political personality and how his career choices affects his personal relationship. Comparatively, I loved the chemistry between John and Kate. They were such an adorable couple, perfect for each other.

While the first half did have a slower pace and many specifications could've been avoided, it served as a necessary foundation for what was to come. And oh boy, when the second half kicked into high gear, it was like being on a rollercoaster of emotions and suspense!

The plot flows smooth without any inconsistencies. All the characters served their part very well. Though there were a few grammatical errors that can be avoided after thorough editing and proofreading, it didn't hinder the plot.

If you are a fan of slow dramatic read, then this book is a perfect choice for you.
Profile Image for Motivationaldailythoughts.
1,091 reviews33 followers
August 16, 2023
Title - The Ambassador's wife
Author - Kristina Stangl
Genre - fiction/thriller
Pages - 650
Format - e-book

The story of The Ambassador's wife by Kristina Stangl revolves around the twin sisters namely Kate Stanley and Jennifer Barrett who are all same except for their hair color. Kate is interested in academics while Jennifer is all into college romance. Five years later Kate becomes a professor of history in New York City and Jennifer becomes Ambassador's wife. But one day Jennifer goes missing under mysterious circumstances so Kate plays her role of Ambassador's wife infront of media and public so she finds out the real truth of their relationship which has no love in private.

Read the book to find out the mystery...

The cover of the book is okayish and could have been better. The title of the book is totally apt to the content. The plot of the story is interesting, engaging and unputdownable. It's a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, thrill, fiction, family drama, love, lust etc. The writing style of the author is smooth and impressive. Language used is simple and lucid. The narration done is perfect. Character development is strong. I liked the character of Kate and even of John. The flow of the book is well paced.

Overall, a thrilling read.

Rating - 4/5

I recommend this book to all thriller fictional lovers out there.
Profile Image for Nina.
92 reviews15 followers
April 7, 2024
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway! Good book , I recommend it !
Profile Image for K B Janaki.
128 reviews7 followers
March 14, 2024
Riveting story

"The Ambassador's Wife" by Kristina Stangl is a compelling tale that skillfully highlights the central role of love in relationships. The story revolves around twin sisters, Jennifer and Kate, whose stark physical differences are overshadowed by the complexities of their intertwined lives.

Jennifer's marriage to John initially seems like a calculated alliance, driven by his need for credibility as an ambassador and her desire for a luxurious lifestyle. However, their mismatched motivations create immediate challenges as they navigate the demands of diplomatic protocol and John's professional commitments.

Jennifer's disinterest in John's passions leads to misunderstandings, pushing her towards extramarital affairs. John, absorbed in his work, remains oblivious to her actions. The plot takes an unexpected turn when Jennifer disappears, prompting John to replace her with Kate to maintain appearances.

As Kate steps into her sister's role, a spark ignites between her and John. Kate's involvement unravels a conspiracy within the mansion, adding layers of complexity. Jennifer's return introduces shocking revelations, further deepening the narrative.

Exceptional character development and a well-crafted plot make "The Ambassador's Wife" a riveting story. Kristina Stangl's storytelling prowess shines as she explores the intricacies of love, connection, and understanding in relationships, delivering a narrative rich in secrets, personal growth, and the nuances of human emotions.
Profile Image for ♡ Diyasha ♡.
517 reviews18 followers
March 3, 2024
✦ 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 ✦ 𝐀𝐌𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐀𝐃𝐎𝐑'𝐒 𝐖𝐈𝐅𝐄 ✦

Can you guess this book by its cover? No. Though most readers point out grammatical errors and certain changes in the plot, one can ignore that. This is full of twists and turns, romance and uncertainty. Even if you try to guess the next move, boom!! You're heading into some tropes. 🌤️

• The twists come into the reader's eyes when the two sisters choose their divergent paths in AMBASSADOR’S WIFE by Kristina Stangl - one wants an academically polished life and the other wants the flavor of politics. These twin sisters KATE and JENNIFER played their parts or vice-versa, maintaining tactfulness and circumstances. 🌿

• Tension rises when JENNIFER finds nowhere, she's gone - vanished somewhere without leaving a trace. So to save her sister's prestige and her entire journey, KATE put herself into JENNIFER’s shoes. This novel also delves into the failed union of U. S Ambassador John Barrett and Jennifer Barrett - without any profoundness in love or friendship or any other relationship can not prevail in the end. They follow the path of Istanbul, Turkey where they marry each other out of convenience. 🍂

• Jennifer always wants richness in her life - she's the “SUN” of her life. Her ignorance towards her husband's ambition makes her relationship worse with him. Their marriage brings the difference between the two personalities - KATE and JENNIFER. Jennifer rounds herself into an affair. After all this, she goes missing and that's how the anxiety clouds with a mysterious note. ⛈️

• KATE comes into touch with the Ambassador where they grow feelings for each other. And that's something!!! KATE is here like a catalyst unveiling the truths and schemes. She shows her unique growth and the intricacies of human sentiments. 🌙

• Though the writing style is evocative this book needs some rectifications. Though I don't have read lengthy books, this book has something irresistible. The first half of this book is a little bit boring and slow. But nothing requires 300 pages to sum up this whole plot. This must be summed up with some precise connotations. But every other aspect of this book seems crucial. So, this goes 5 st
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1 review
February 15, 2024
"The Ambassador's Wife" is a captivating tale that seamlessly intertwines romance, suspense, and international intrigue. From the bustling streets of Paris to the diplomatic circles of Washington D.C., Jennifer Barrett's s narrative takes readers on a thrilling journey through the complexities of love, loyalty, and betrayal.

At its heart, the novel follows the tumultuous relationship between Miranda, the wife of a British ambassador, and Finn, a rugged journalist with a troubled past. Their forbidden romance is set against the backdrop of political upheaval and cultural clashes, adding layers of tension and suspense to the story.

Barrett's writing is evocative and richly detailed, painting vivid portraits of exotic locales and multifaceted characters. Miranda is a complex protagonist, torn between her duty to her husband and her growing attraction to Finn. Her internal struggle is palpable, drawing readers into her world and keeping them invested in her journey.

Finn, on the other hand, is a compelling enigma—a man haunted by his demons yet driven by his passion for truth and justice. His dynamic with Miranda crackles with tension and chemistry, creating a palpable sense of longing and desire that permeates the narrative.

But "The Ambassador's Wife" is more than just a love story. It's also a thought-provoking exploration of power dynamics, privilege, and the consequences of our actions. Barrett deftly navigates complex themes such as colonialism, terrorism, and identity, challenging readers to confront their own preconceptions and biases.

Ultimately, "The Ambassador's Wife" is a gripping read that will keep you guessing until the very end. With its lush prose, well-drawn characters, and intricate plot, it's a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you're a fan of romance, suspense, or political intrigue, this novel is sure to satisfy your cravings for a thrilling literary escape.
Profile Image for Chhaya.
317 reviews6 followers
February 29, 2024
The Ambassador's Wife by Kristina Stangl is a captivating and marvelous story that weaves together the life of twin sisters with a element.of suspense and secrets..It was unique read for me. The way story unfolds itself.... it was like watching a interesting movie and the plot flows smoothly even though it is a long book. The plot was interesting mixture of suspense, emotion, drama and scandals .The author did an amazing job in portraying the contrasting nature of both twins and the character development in the book was nicely done.
The novel also explores the complexities of human relationships, identity, self-discovery and power of love . It's a non fiction kind of family thriller.
386 reviews5 followers
December 2, 2023
While this is a long book (over 800 pages) it is well worth reading. There is romance, intrigue, twists and turns. It is hard to figure out who the bad guys are until the end. Even if you have a hint at one of them, you won't guess them all.

The descriptions of the flowers makes you want to go plant a garden.

Thanks goodreads for this book.
Profile Image for Lindsay Kinney.
60 reviews1 follower
February 16, 2024
DNF I would be interested in reading more from this author down the road and with the assistance of an editor. The premise was solid but I couldn’t commit to the length of the story given the grammatical errors. The characters and settings were interesting and the concept well developed.
Profile Image for Emma James.
22 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2023
Loved it! Great novel by a fantastic author! Can't wait to read more!
Profile Image for Katie Mae.
20 reviews
December 14, 2023
A real thriller! A perfect blend of mystery and suspense, with a dash of romance.

999 reviews36 followers
September 6, 2024
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.

An intriguing story line that wove several plot threads into a complicated tapestry. It’s the story of identical twins who, aside from their looks and their hair color, are really quite different. One becomes an ambassador’s wife while the other is a university professor. Their lives don’t intertwine, until the unthinkable happens, Jennifer, the ambassador’s wife, who is unhappy in her role, begins to have a series of affairs. This results in blackmail and an attempt on her life. Then she goes missing. Kate, the professor, is asked to step into her sister’s shoes until the person behind the events is revealed. It isn’t until the very end that the various plot lines and finally joined together to complete the final picture.
The plot is engaging and the characters are well developed. It is a combination of mystery and intrigue with a bit of romance tossed in.
Profile Image for Virginia.
9,263 reviews23 followers
April 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The Ambassador’s Wife is a twisty, emotionally layered story that masterfully blends intrigue, identity, and slow-burn romance in a world of political facades and personal secrets. Kristina Stangl keeps you hooked as love, loyalty, and deception collide in unexpected ways, making it impossible to tell where pretending ends and something real begins.
82 reviews1 follower
January 24, 2024
The Ambassador's Wife has such a unique premise and colorful descriptions of life inside the gilded cage of the public eye. Despite some criticisms I had, I very much enjoyed this storyline. I do think it needs polishing, and this comes off as a very first draft, which was disappointing to me reading this as a finished product.

The metaphors, the parallel's to Turkish culture, and the almost "court and royal intrigue" of the world of Politics was very entertaining and kept me flipping pages well into the night. I also really liked how the story started and wish there were more flashbacks to their time in Turkey. It seemed that it was an integral part of the story beginning but then the prophecy and their grandmother was pretty much forgotten, despite the novel being set in Istanbul for a majority of the time.

Some things I definitely think were deal breakers for me and affected my enjoyment negatively
- Grammar, word usage, and spelling was horrendous. This book needs an editor.
- Sometimes the metaphors were super repetitive. The author loved flowery language but it made the read very clunky. I read the same sentence three times as she wrote it with different metaphors.
- Her view on foreign cultures was very stereotypical. Poor people in India who believe in all knowing cows? Really catty French and Brazilian women? That seems to draw on some prejudices and I can say that really ruined my view on those parts of the book.
- Story had potential and was developed well, but was not written in a way that conveyed it well. The timeline jumped around a lot.
-Characters were either EXTREME bad or EXTREME good. There was no nuance or development to any of them.

I hope this author continues to develop her talent and grow, as she has potential. This book was just not the best. Thank you to Good Reads for selecting me as a giveaway winner for this novel. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Brittany.
26 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2024
Four chapters in I had to give up...

I had high hopes for this book. I made it about four chapters in before I had to quit. I'm sure the storyline is there but the writing is just NOT IT. The run on sentences and the overuse of words that just weren't needed made it feel like a paper from a middle school English class. If it was a MUCH shorter book I may have attempted it but 800 pages? Not a chance.
Profile Image for Cee.
135 reviews1 follower
February 27, 2024
So much promise in the storyline, but needs a good editor to correct all the typos/grammatical issues and cull down some of the unnecessary content.
Profile Image for Amy.
777 reviews1 follower
April 4, 2024
Good story but too much backstories and side stories to get through the book. At times I felt like I barely making any headway in the book.
Profile Image for Shilo Goodson.
Author 1 book9 followers
September 5, 2024
Unfortunately, this book did not reach its potential. The biggest thing this book needed was a good editor. The Kindle version is 811 pages! If I'm reading a long book, it had better be really good, and it had better feel like it needs to be that long. As it is, I think this story could have been told in about 300 pages. There is a lot of repetition. The author will tell us information in one place and then tell us the same information as though it's new information in another part of the story. At times, this really weighed down the plot.

This book is full of grammar errors. This includes missing or misplaced punctuation, the names of places that should be capitalized but aren't, missing words, and words that are switched around in the sentences. There are also places where the author used the wrong word. For example, she's talking about a lady sewing a dress, but she kept using the word "sowing" instead. In another place, "we're" replaced "were." I get that there might be a few grammar issues in a book, especially one of this size, but the grammar issues seriously distracted from the book.

As I mentioned before, this is a really long book. The book's description made it seem like the story was about Kate taking her sister's place after Jennifer disappeared. As the story is written, because of these early chapters, I find both Jennifer and John to be complete jerks. It's hard to like them or feel sorry for them at all in the later part of the story.

There were also several factual errors or parts that are misleading. There are four that stand out right away. First, the author describes someone as a middle-aged man who is in his late 70s. I definitely would not consider someone in their late 70s to be middle-aged. If that's the case, this guy's got to live to at least around 150. In another place, it talks about how it's a presidential election year. The author has established that it's 2018. There wasn't a presidential election in 2018. Finally, according to the book, NYU is an Ivy League school. The book also talks about how it's so much more expensive to go to medical school in Europe than in the United States. In general, it's much less expensive to go to medical school (or obtain any higher education degree) in Europe than in the United States. There's several other parts that don't fully make sense, including someone who supposedly doesn't know Kate's identity calling her "Kate" instead of "Jennifer."

There is some swearing in this book. It's not in every chapter, but it's there. As for sexual content, let's just say that I skipped ahead several pages in at least two or three instances because things were getting a little to sexually graphic. There's also a character who has multiple affairs. As for violence, there are several threats of violence, but the on-page violence is pretty minimal.

As this book is written, I would not recommend it. It is unfortunate because I do feel like it has an interesting plot. I'd give it 2.5 stars. If you do decide to read this book, I would recommend reading the prologue and then skipping ahead to chapter 10.

I won a free copy of this book through a Goodreads Giveaway, and I left a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Sagar Naskar.
820 reviews14 followers
August 12, 2023
Book Review ~ 📚

Title : The Ambassador's Wife
Author : Kristina Stangl

Kristina Stangl's The Ambassador's Wife is an engrossing and intense book that explores the complexity of relationships, love, and identity. The novel deftly ties together the lives of twin sisters Jennifer and Kate, as well as their turbulent journey of self-discovery and development, against the backdrop of diplomatic circles and well-kept secrets.

The story's premise is clever and original: when Jennifer vanishes, her twin sister Kate fills in as the ambassador's wife. The reader is quickly drawn in by this concept, which also paves the way for a number of surprising developments, discoveries, and emotional insights.

The Ambassador's Wife has outstanding character development. Both Jennifer and Kate are unique people with their own goals, foibles, and wants. Their diverse personalities and decisions are expertly portrayed by Kristina Stangl, who makes them believable and approachable. John and Jennifer's difficult relationship dynamics are thoroughly and authentically examined, illuminating the complexities of a union based more on practicality than true love.

The novel's progressive relationship changes are one of its most notable features. As Kate pretends to be Jennifer, her interactions with John change from the expected courtesy to sincere sympathy. There is undeniable electricity between Kate and John, and their emotional bond develops naturally. With skill, this creation captures the essence of two people finding comfort and camaraderie in unforeseen situations.

The plot moves along at a good clip, keeping the reader intrigued and suspenseful the entire while. The plot advances as layers of tension and intrigue are added by the enigmatic note and Jennifer's absence. Readers are swept into a labyrinth of intrigue, personal development, and surprising twists as the mansion's secrets start to come out.

The novel's examination of identity and human development is one of its most interesting features. Both captivating and realistic, Kate's journey from an academic engrossed in her work to a woman negotiating the nuances of high society. Her internal struggle to strike a balance between authenticity and the expectations of her new profession gives her character depth, giving her someone readers can identify with and root for.

My favorite character in the novel is Kate. Her desire to take up her sister's responsibilities and adjust to a totally new way of life exemplifies her strength and tenacity. Her personal development is admirable as she immerses herself in the role of the ambassador's wife. The story gains emotional depth via Kate's capacity to identify with John, comprehend his suffering, and finally form a meaningful connection with him.

I heartily suggest The Ambassador's Wife to readers who value complex, character-driven books with surprising emotional depth. To craft a complex and compelling story, Kristina Stangl expertly integrates themes of mystery, romance, and human development. This book is engaging and thought-provoking since it explores relationships, personal identity, and the transformative power of love. This book delivers a rewarding and engrossing reading experience, regardless of whether you are drawn to stories of emotional discovery or captivated by the world of diplomacy and secrets.

⭐ Rating : 4/5 🌟⭐
⭐ Must Recommended 🌟
Profile Image for Rutuja Ramteke.
2,013 reviews100 followers
July 31, 2023

🫀This book is a world in itself and I actually read something like this after so long, I remember picking this book a week ago and I couldn’t believe even after a very busy schedule I read it in less than a week, a 600+ pages book in a week was amazing even for me but the reason being it’s really interesting and undownputable!

Once you pick it, you just want to keep going and my curious heart wanted to know where it will take me, it’s such an unpredictable story that is unique crafted and so well planned and plotted, even after being a very lengthy book, there was not even a single dull moment in the story, it didn’t feel dragged or lag even in between.

The book follows the dramatic story of two twin sisters, who kinda followed a very different and ended up in very different circumstances where one sister goes missing and another has to take her in the name pf reputation. The storyline also touches on strong political themes of how perfect and happy it looks from outside is not exactly what it is from within, there are always two side of a coin and we most of time we only know the good side and not the one that weighs one down!

The book is about human relationships, the love that beyond love that kinda turned into lies and sex and at the end of the day means nothing, the pain one goes through, the guilt and to pretend that everything is perfectly fine and how challenging it can turn over a period of time, everything is just so well depicted in the story.

I also love how mystery and suspense was not just added but actually built gradually as the story progresses and that’s what really kept me glued till the very end, I was flabbergasted by the narration, the writing, the character sketch which was in depth and also the touchy themes of the story.

What I really enjoyed is, the book has several sides, sometimes it’s fun and entertaining with full of drama, other times it gets a bit darker when reality hits and at times it’s such a heart warming read which actually touches the readers and is really very emotional, just like an emotional ride.

Even if you are beginner, I’m sure it wouldn’t be a trouble for you to get into the book because the writing is easy, creative and truly engaging. I felt a deep connection with characters especially the sisters as their lives changed like anything.

Deep down, I feel it’s a very wholesome read that’s perfect for a holiday or when you want that drama, fun, emotion filled tale, mystery and a heart touching story all at once, this is surely something you should pick! It’s a grand book and so are the settings of the story at times, the way it explores the political aspect of the story is worth appreciating.

I enjoyed it and I will definitely recommend it to everyone.

Rating: 4.25⭐️
Profile Image for Smily .
477 reviews10 followers
August 18, 2023
"The Ambassador's Wife" by Kristina Stangl is a literary accomplishment that deftly blends suspense and romance within the tight structure of its plot. The novel dives into the contrasting lives of identical twins Jennifer and Kate, deftly intertwining their fates with international politics and personal mystery.

Stangl begins the story with a mesmerising portrayal of Jennifer and Kate, whose identical appearances conceal their disparate ambitions. Jennifer, enamoured with splendour, marries John Barrett, heir to the Barrett empire and US ambassador. Kate, on the other hand, is immersed in her academic work as a history professor at New York University. The contrast between the twins' goals prepares viewers for the gripping story that follows.

Jennifer's disappearance in Istanbul, the diplomatic stage where John works, sends the plot into a thrilling spiral. Kate, compelled into taking on Jennifer's role to avoid a scandal, becomes the narrative's linchpin. The author expertly navigates the maze of suspense, drama, and romance, maintaining the reader's rapt attention throughout. Stangl weaves diplomatic situations and personal issues into the narrative fabric, creating a story that is both captivating and memorable.

The growth of its characters—deeply authentic and relatable—is central to the novel's attraction. Kate's transformation from an academic introvert to a lady caught up in the complications of high society is an enthralling journey of self-discovery. John's internal conflict, split between his actual feelings and the façade he maintains, lends dimension to his character. The characters' progress demonstrates Stangl's outstanding character development, which imbues the plot with realistic realism.

Stangl's writing style is captivating, smoothly mixing vivid imagery and emotions. The reader is carried seamlessly into the sumptuous realm of diplomatic occasions or the emotional turmoil of personal relationships. The pacing is expertly choreographed, with each plot twist and turn heightening the sense of anticipation and immersion.

"The Ambassador's Wife" is an excellent blend of suspense and romance. Kristina Stangl's ability to weave an engrossing story, complemented with finely developed characters and a skillfully crafted plot, ensures that readers will be engaged from the first pages to the last. This work is a must-read for fans of stories that delve into mystery, personal growth, and the complexities of human emotions.
Profile Image for Sumit RK.
1,352 reviews559 followers
August 15, 2023
The Ambassador's Wife by Kristina Stangl is an intense romance exploring the different facets of relationships. Combining romance and mystery, the author weaves an engrossing story.

Kate and Jennifer are twin sisters but both are poles apart. Kate is an introvert while Jennifer is an outgoing extrovert. Years later, Kate is an accomplished history professor, while Jennifer is married and now the wife of a US ambassador, John Barrett. The trouble starts when Jennifer goes missing and Kate has to step in and pose as the ambassador’s wife, in order to divert a scandal and save her sister. Now Kate is in an unknown world of which she knows nothing about. Unknowingly John starts falling for Kate. Will Kate stop herself and what will the fate of their relationship?

Right from the start, this book is an exploration of different relationships and personalities. Even as twins,both sisters have different personalities and different lives. The story hits another gear with the disappearance of Jennifer. Not only we experience the inner turmoil of Kate but also the challenge to keep an outward appearance. The book is also an commentary of the hypocrisy of high society, where people are expected to carry on with broken down relationships but societal expectations. The book adds several twists and turns at regular intervals keeping the readers guessing..

The book really shines in portraying the different relationships. The book explores how the love between John and Jennifer has fallen apart but also the changing relations between John and Kate. The detection of the changing dynamic between John and Kate as Kate pretends to be Jennifer is fascinating. As the lines between reality and a make believe relationship starts to blur, the chemistry between the two starts to takeover. The developing love and emotional bond between the two is heartwarming to read.

The characters are well-developed; especially Kate. The book establishes the vastly different characters of Jennifer and Kate, which plays into the story when Kate replaces Jennifer. Kate's struggles to replace Jennifer are also well narrated.

Overall, The Ambassador's Wife is an entertaining read with lots of romance and drama, taking the readers on an emotional rollercoaster. If you enjoy romance with a mystery, you will enjoy this book.
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