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The Wife’s Secret: An absolutely addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist:
Liz Hunter has done something evil.
To avoid prison, Liz flees Oklahoma and lands in an isolated desert town praying her past won’t catch up with her.
But when Liz and her new husband Gavin win the $698 million lottery jackpot her dreams catapult into nightmares.
Being hounded by a shady reporter intent on unearthing her gruesome past is bad enough, but it's her husband she's really worried about.
All that money has gone to Gavin's head. The man she married, who used to be a kind, loving husband has turned into a cheating, manipulative monster.
But Liz will do whatever it takes to save herself.
Even if it means murder.
You might think you know what happens next, but you’re wrong. With jaw-dropping twists and turns, this is a book you will not be able to put down!
Fans of Freida McFadden, Natalie Barelli, and Nicola Sanders will be hooked by this unputdownable psychological thriller with a pulse-pounding twist!
To avoid prison, Liz flees Oklahoma and lands in an isolated desert town praying her past won’t catch up with her.
But when Liz and her new husband Gavin win the $698 million lottery jackpot her dreams catapult into nightmares.
Being hounded by a shady reporter intent on unearthing her gruesome past is bad enough, but it's her husband she's really worried about.
All that money has gone to Gavin's head. The man she married, who used to be a kind, loving husband has turned into a cheating, manipulative monster.
But Liz will do whatever it takes to save herself.
Even if it means murder.
You might think you know what happens next, but you’re wrong. With jaw-dropping twists and turns, this is a book you will not be able to put down!
Fans of Freida McFadden, Natalie Barelli, and Nicola Sanders will be hooked by this unputdownable psychological thriller with a pulse-pounding twist!
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 11, 2024
155 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 3, 2024
Liz is on the run, and has fled Oklahoma and landed in Joshua Tree, where she has gained a new identity. She meets and marries Gavin, a two bit lawyer who runs a small “personal injury” business. One day they win BIG on the lottery. Gavin goes from being the loyal, loving husband to a conniving, lying cheat, overnight, while Liz’s past soon catches up with her.
This was such an enjoyable read, and isn’t a typical psychological thriller, as it has a dark comedy vibe to it. This was a lot of fun, which had me excitedly turning the pages. I can’t wait to read more from Debra Lynch, as she can keep me guessing throughout, while also making the read full of humour. Highly enjoyable, and highly recommended.
Thanks to the author, and BookSirens for providing me with this free ARC, with which I gladly review voluntarily.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such an enjoyable read, and isn’t a typical psychological thriller, as it has a dark comedy vibe to it. This was a lot of fun, which had me excitedly turning the pages. I can’t wait to read more from Debra Lynch, as she can keep me guessing throughout, while also making the read full of humour. Highly enjoyable, and highly recommended.
Thanks to the author, and BookSirens for providing me with this free ARC, with which I gladly review voluntarily.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 5, 2024
I wasn't sure about this one to start with. Even at the end, I was jumping between giving it 3 or 4 stars. There was a lot going on, and it all started when Gavin and Liz won an incredible amount on the lottery. There were a lot of twists throughout; some predictable and others not.
It was a fairly enjoyable read, which is why I settled on 4*
It was a fairly enjoyable read, which is why I settled on 4*
March 2, 2024
WOW! I cannot praise this novel enough. I was immediately hooked from the first page and could not put this one down! So many twists! Liz and Gavin win the lottery and their lives change rather drastically. Secrets are unburied from Liz’s past life and she learns that not everyone is what they seem. Debra did such an amazing job writing this story and I’ll definitely be checking out her other novel The Perfect Liar. Thank you so much Debra and Book Sirens for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
January 9, 2025
Very good, thought I would explore a different psychological thriller author, kept my interest and am looking forward to reading The Perfect Liar next.
May 6, 2025
I would have rated this book higher if it wasn’t for the repetitive phrases like; Son of a motherless goat! Sweet saxophone! Also you need at least one character with redeeming qualities and this book had none.
June 9, 2024
Not a fan of this book, actually skipped quite a bit of it as the characters were all just really stupid people. The main character uses a lot of really childish phrases and does a lot of dumb things. No complexity to the story. I did not find it to be "shocking", "addictive" or "thrilling" in the least. To me it was just a bunch of fluff.
April 21, 2024
My rating is 3.5 stars closer to 4 rather than 3.
I read this book as a free Review copy from BookSirens. My thanks to the publisher, BookSirens and the author for the copy.
This review is based on my reading this book and is an honest reflection of my feelings while reading this book. The comments and review is my opinion about the story.
This is the first book I've read from the author and Debra's writing grows on you so this is one author whose work I would like to read again.
The premise in the blurb was intriguing and made me want to read the story. A woman with a dark past trying to live a life of obscurity is suddenly catapulted to the limelight because of a one in a billion lottery win and the fallout that naturally follows affecting the people and the relationships.
The story per se is an average tale that showcases changes that come into the life of the protagonist's husband in the story and who goes from being a normal cash strapped loving husband into a devil inspired liar and a cheat. What elevates this Debra Lynch tale is her treatment of the characters especially Liz with the dark streaks of her past which includes a prison sentence looming over her head as a Damocles sword that has forced her into an anonymous life. Her husband's sudden changes post the lottery win brings wholesale changes in to her life and with the news spreading and her life seemingly unravelling this is a psychological tale that plays out like a comedy noir.
The start to the book left me with mixed feelings about the story and the principal character of Liz and was where the story lost around half a star. I never DNF any book but others may lose the path here. The story picks up soon after and remains true to course till the end.
Recommended.
I read this book as a free Review copy from BookSirens. My thanks to the publisher, BookSirens and the author for the copy.
This review is based on my reading this book and is an honest reflection of my feelings while reading this book. The comments and review is my opinion about the story.
This is the first book I've read from the author and Debra's writing grows on you so this is one author whose work I would like to read again.
The premise in the blurb was intriguing and made me want to read the story. A woman with a dark past trying to live a life of obscurity is suddenly catapulted to the limelight because of a one in a billion lottery win and the fallout that naturally follows affecting the people and the relationships.
The story per se is an average tale that showcases changes that come into the life of the protagonist's husband in the story and who goes from being a normal cash strapped loving husband into a devil inspired liar and a cheat. What elevates this Debra Lynch tale is her treatment of the characters especially Liz with the dark streaks of her past which includes a prison sentence looming over her head as a Damocles sword that has forced her into an anonymous life. Her husband's sudden changes post the lottery win brings wholesale changes in to her life and with the news spreading and her life seemingly unravelling this is a psychological tale that plays out like a comedy noir.
The start to the book left me with mixed feelings about the story and the principal character of Liz and was where the story lost around half a star. I never DNF any book but others may lose the path here. The story picks up soon after and remains true to course till the end.
Recommended.
March 18, 2024
𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐩 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞? 𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝? 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐩 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝.
Ever since I read THE PERFECT LIAR, I have been anxiously awaiting a new release from this author, and she delivered once again!
Liz is trying to avoid prison, so she flees Oklahoma and settles in an isolated desert town that seems to be a great place for remaining anonymous. She marries a man named Gavin who is pleasant enough, but he serves a bigger purpose.
Then disaster strikes. Liz bought a lottery ticket worth $698 million dollars. Suddenly, her name and photo are everywhere, and even worse, Gavin starts acting differently, and it's not long before he's buying cars and a new house to share with his new lovers. Liz is not about to let him mess up her plan, but she's got a reporter from a gossip rag breathing down her neck and asking questions. Liz just needs to catch a break, and she finds it in Gavin's sister, who is appalled by her brother's recent behavior.
What follows is one darkly comedic tale with hints of the grifter theme found in tv shows like 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒊𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔 and 𝑶𝒛𝒂𝒓𝒌. Liz reminded me so much of Ruth, sans the profanity. Everything got so outlandish toward the end, but it absolutely worked. You won't know who to root for until you reach the last page! This was a KU title that published March 11, 2024.
Ever since I read THE PERFECT LIAR, I have been anxiously awaiting a new release from this author, and she delivered once again!
Liz is trying to avoid prison, so she flees Oklahoma and settles in an isolated desert town that seems to be a great place for remaining anonymous. She marries a man named Gavin who is pleasant enough, but he serves a bigger purpose.
Then disaster strikes. Liz bought a lottery ticket worth $698 million dollars. Suddenly, her name and photo are everywhere, and even worse, Gavin starts acting differently, and it's not long before he's buying cars and a new house to share with his new lovers. Liz is not about to let him mess up her plan, but she's got a reporter from a gossip rag breathing down her neck and asking questions. Liz just needs to catch a break, and she finds it in Gavin's sister, who is appalled by her brother's recent behavior.
What follows is one darkly comedic tale with hints of the grifter theme found in tv shows like 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒊𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔 and 𝑶𝒛𝒂𝒓𝒌. Liz reminded me so much of Ruth, sans the profanity. Everything got so outlandish toward the end, but it absolutely worked. You won't know who to root for until you reach the last page! This was a KU title that published March 11, 2024.
May 18, 2024
Debra Lynch's "The Wife's Secret" is a twisting and turning psychological thriller where the twists keep going even into the epilogue.
Although the story does take a bit of time to get going, once it does it delves into a depth of secrets between all the characters, both shared and ones kept completely to themselves. The relationship between sisters-in-law as well as between twins are central to the theme and how each interprets the relationships around them.
As the plot thickens, Lynch masterfully peels back layers of deception, revealing unexpected connections and hidden motives that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The tension between trust and betrayal is palpable, drawing the audience deeper into the tangled web of lies. Each character is meticulously crafted, their complexities adding richness to the narrative.
"The Wife's Secret" explores not just the dark undercurrents within familial bonds, but also the psychological toll of secrecy and suspicion. Lynch's skillful storytelling ensures that just when you think you've figured it out, another twist throws you off balance. The novel's intricate plot and emotional depth make it a compelling read that lingers long after the final page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Although the story does take a bit of time to get going, once it does it delves into a depth of secrets between all the characters, both shared and ones kept completely to themselves. The relationship between sisters-in-law as well as between twins are central to the theme and how each interprets the relationships around them.
As the plot thickens, Lynch masterfully peels back layers of deception, revealing unexpected connections and hidden motives that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The tension between trust and betrayal is palpable, drawing the audience deeper into the tangled web of lies. Each character is meticulously crafted, their complexities adding richness to the narrative.
"The Wife's Secret" explores not just the dark undercurrents within familial bonds, but also the psychological toll of secrecy and suspicion. Lynch's skillful storytelling ensures that just when you think you've figured it out, another twist throws you off balance. The novel's intricate plot and emotional depth make it a compelling read that lingers long after the final page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2024
This was one twisty ride, right from the start! The FMC, Liz, has fled her home state of Oklahoma after a crime that could land her in prison, with hopes that the past doesn’t catch up to her. She’s living a mundane life in the desert with her husband, Gavin, when she fortunately (or unfortunately) wins a massive lottery of 698 million! Liz won the money fair and square and she will do anything to keep it, as well as her life.
I went from being so annoyed with Liz to admiring her back and forth through out this book. At times, she seems so logical and put together and other times she seems to fall off with questionable decisions. (Also, he choice of curse word substitutions were so annoying until I began to love them LOL)
Expect the unexpected with this one because the twists were insaneeee and kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. The story feels very much similar to what I have come to expect and love from Freida McFadden, and I have to think being compared to the Queen or psychological thrillers is a huge compliment!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I went from being so annoyed with Liz to admiring her back and forth through out this book. At times, she seems so logical and put together and other times she seems to fall off with questionable decisions. (Also, he choice of curse word substitutions were so annoying until I began to love them LOL)
Expect the unexpected with this one because the twists were insaneeee and kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. The story feels very much similar to what I have come to expect and love from Freida McFadden, and I have to think being compared to the Queen or psychological thrillers is a huge compliment!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 22, 2024
Debra Lynch's "The Wife's Secret" is a psychological thriller brimming with twists that persist even into the epilogue.
While the story takes some time to build momentum, it eventually plunges into a maze of secrets shared among the characters and those kept entirely private. Central to the narrative are the relationships between sisters-in-law and twins, highlighting how each character interprets the connections around them.
As the plot deepens, Lynch expertly unveils layers of deception, exposing surprising links and hidden motives that keep readers riveted. The tension between trust and betrayal is tangible, drawing the audience further into a complex web of lies. Each character is meticulously developed, their intricacies adding depth to the story.
"The Wife's Secret" not only delves into the dark undercurrents of familial bonds but also explores the psychological impact of secrecy and suspicion. Lynch's adept storytelling ensures that just when you think you have it all figured out, another twist surprises you. The novel's intricate plot and emotional resonance make it a compelling read that lingers long after the final page.
While the story takes some time to build momentum, it eventually plunges into a maze of secrets shared among the characters and those kept entirely private. Central to the narrative are the relationships between sisters-in-law and twins, highlighting how each character interprets the connections around them.
As the plot deepens, Lynch expertly unveils layers of deception, exposing surprising links and hidden motives that keep readers riveted. The tension between trust and betrayal is tangible, drawing the audience further into a complex web of lies. Each character is meticulously developed, their intricacies adding depth to the story.
"The Wife's Secret" not only delves into the dark undercurrents of familial bonds but also explores the psychological impact of secrecy and suspicion. Lynch's adept storytelling ensures that just when you think you have it all figured out, another twist surprises you. The novel's intricate plot and emotional resonance make it a compelling read that lingers long after the final page.
March 29, 2024
Opinião: Pela sinopse achei que ia amar este livro. Afinal, ganhar o Jackpot da lotaria e ficar milionário do dia para a noite deve ser incrivel mas também deve mexer muito com a cabeça de quem ganha. Se gostam de Thrillers Slow (muito) slow burn, então vão gosta deste de certeza. Eu como sou mais de gostar de leituras com reviravoltas a cada instante e que me efetivamente prendam à narrativa, demorei muito tempo a ler esta estória e no final, apesar de não ter desgostado, pensei que iria ser algo bastante diferente. As personagens a certa altura tornam-se aborrecidas e com comportamentos repetitivos, o que também não abona a favor da fluidez da narrativa. É um bom livro, mas não me conquistou, talvez porque demora muito até existir algo que nos faça realmente agarrar e não parar de ler até ao fim.
Eng Review: Based on the synopsis, I thought I would love this book. After all, winning the lottery Jackpot and becoming a millionaire overnight must be incredible, but it must also really mess with the winner's mind. If you like Slow (very) slow burn Thrillers, then you will definitely like this one. Since I prefer readings that have plot twists at every turn and that effectively hook me into the narrative, it took me a long time to read this story and in the end, although I didn't dislike it, I thought it would be something quite different. The characters at a certain point become boring and have repetitive behaviors, which also does not favor the fluidity of the narrative. It's a good book, but it didn't win me over, perhaps because it takes a long time before there's something that makes you really grab it and not stop reading until the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
@bibliotecamil_insta
Eng Review: Based on the synopsis, I thought I would love this book. After all, winning the lottery Jackpot and becoming a millionaire overnight must be incredible, but it must also really mess with the winner's mind. If you like Slow (very) slow burn Thrillers, then you will definitely like this one. Since I prefer readings that have plot twists at every turn and that effectively hook me into the narrative, it took me a long time to read this story and in the end, although I didn't dislike it, I thought it would be something quite different. The characters at a certain point become boring and have repetitive behaviors, which also does not favor the fluidity of the narrative. It's a good book, but it didn't win me over, perhaps because it takes a long time before there's something that makes you really grab it and not stop reading until the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
@bibliotecamil_insta
October 19, 2024
Firstly I would like to thank Booksirens, the author, Debra Lynch and the publisher for the ARC All reviews are based on my own opinion and are without any bias. The following is my review of "The Wife's Secret":
"The Wife’s Secret" shines in its gripping narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with every twist and turn. The character development is superb, making it easy to empathize with their plights and triumphs. The author’s descriptive writing brings the settings to life, immersing readers in the story’s world. While the plot is engaging, there are moments where the pacing feels rushed, leaving some details underdeveloped.
A bit more background on certain characters and events could add depth and enhance the overall experience. A few plot points may come off as predictable, but they don’t overshadow the overall intrigue of the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
"The Wife’s Secret" shines in its gripping narrative, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with every twist and turn. The character development is superb, making it easy to empathize with their plights and triumphs. The author’s descriptive writing brings the settings to life, immersing readers in the story’s world. While the plot is engaging, there are moments where the pacing feels rushed, leaving some details underdeveloped.
A bit more background on certain characters and events could add depth and enhance the overall experience. A few plot points may come off as predictable, but they don’t overshadow the overall intrigue of the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
March 29, 2024
Does anyone really know who their spouse is? Liz Hunter has a hidden past and when she wins the $698 million lottery jackpot, she sees her husband's true colors as a cheating, manipulative monster!
This book captivated my attention and I couldn't put it down. Some twists I saw coming but others were complete shock. I hated to put the book down to go to work but I thought about the characters when I wasn't reading and put myself in their shoes. No one really knows who anyone is or what anyone is capable of.
This book captivated my attention and I couldn't put it down. Some twists I saw coming but others were complete shock. I hated to put the book down to go to work but I thought about the characters when I wasn't reading and put myself in their shoes. No one really knows who anyone is or what anyone is capable of.
May 6, 2024
Everyone wants to win the lottery, but can they handle what comes with it?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I LOVED this book! The twists and turns were amazing, and Liz is written in a way that makes you love her instantly. I was devastated by who the villain was because I loved them too.
The only thing I struggled with was Liz's past husband's involvement because I had a hard time understanding how what was happening was possible (I don't want to spoil it!).. Otherwise, I found the story to be engaging from beginning to end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I LOVED this book! The twists and turns were amazing, and Liz is written in a way that makes you love her instantly. I was devastated by who the villain was because I loved them too.
The only thing I struggled with was Liz's past husband's involvement because I had a hard time understanding how what was happening was possible (I don't want to spoil it!).. Otherwise, I found the story to be engaging from beginning to end.
March 25, 2024
This one had me thinking and talking about it even when I wasn't reading. There were a few twists that I saw coming but overall it was quite the page turner. Some things I haven't seen in other thrillers, which I really liked. I would definitely pick up something else written by this author. It was a pretty quick read too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 24, 2024
This book was fast paced. I wasn't fond of any of the characters, but I think that means it was written very very well. The main characters didn't seem to be very good people. If you are looking for a page turner then this is the book for you. Thanks to Book Siren and the author/publisher for sending this book free for review. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 18, 2024
Liz is trying to live her life quietly under the radar because she is using an alias and in hiding as a newlywed with her husband, Gavin. Suddenly she is thrust into the spotlight after she wins a $698 million lottery jackpot. She wants to run with the money since she has a reporter bothering her, a husband who can’t seem to spend the money fast enough and a man she once thought dead is also making news. This was a good, quirky mystery.
March 20, 2024
so much fun!
Imagine my surprise that it takes place in Joshua Tree, where I grew up. She got it right. It’s not great literature. It’s addictive and the twists are great. Just corny enough.
Imagine my surprise that it takes place in Joshua Tree, where I grew up. She got it right. It’s not great literature. It’s addictive and the twists are great. Just corny enough.
March 28, 2024
This was just such a fun read, honestly you never knew what was going on. Deliciously dark and comedic worked so well on so many levels what a fun escapism read.
Fancy winning the lottery when you want to hide - then who can be trusted.
Fancy winning the lottery when you want to hide - then who can be trusted.
April 3, 2024
I liked this book as well as didn't like it since there was something in it that made me feel as if I was wading through thick mud. None of the characters were likable. Lots of twists and unexpected alliances. It had its moments.
April 18, 2024
Wow! This book was really good! I can’t remember the last book I couldn’t decide if I wanted to root for the main character or not! The twists were so good and I was on the edge of my seat not knowing how it was going to end!
May 4, 2024
surprising ending!
I wasn’t sure about this book until I finished reading it. It was too dramatic for me. But I prodding through to the end and was surprised what Liz did with her $698 million lottery winnings.
I wasn’t sure about this book until I finished reading it. It was too dramatic for me. But I prodding through to the end and was surprised what Liz did with her $698 million lottery winnings.
May 7, 2024
This was a unique story. I enjoyed the premise of this one! That ending was crazy- I was barely able to keep up! Loss of star rating for long winded descriptions… I kept this story needed to tighten things up a bit!
November 20, 2024
Winning the lottery changes the main characters lives in a big way. Many secrets come to light that were supposed to remain buried because of it. What to do, who to trust?
A well written thriller.
A+++++
A well written thriller.
A+++++
March 4, 2024
This book was so entertaining! The main character, Liz, was a hoot. This book was thrilling and also funny at times. I flew through the pages. Highly recommend!
April 21, 2024
A good book!
This was a good book it kept you on the edge of your seat but I didn't like the way it ended the wife should have got hers!
This was a good book it kept you on the edge of your seat but I didn't like the way it ended the wife should have got hers!
July 27, 2024
This was a silly book, but I was entertained.
August 18, 2024
I didn't dislike it I just thought it would be different to what it was it's a slow burn and took me a while to get into it
November 3, 2024
I loved the premise of the book, I loved the twists and turns but I felt nothing for the characters ~ I could quite cheerfully have slapped Liz and Gavin just left me cold
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews