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The Lucky Widow
Wishing your husband dead isn’t a crime...
When you return from a work trip to find your husband dead in the pond, it’s best not to call him a liar and a cheat in front of the cops. Especially when you’ve spent the last few years telling anyone who’ll listen that you sometimes fantasize about killing him. It makes you look kind of, well, guilty.
Now I’m suspect number one for Nathaniel’s murder and the police are snooping around our perfect home. And the house is perfect because I designed it, down to the last marbled detail. You could say I designed our marriage, too. As soon as I saw Nathaniel—so handsome, successful, a surgeon—I knew I wanted him. Sadly our marriage wasn’t quite as perfect as our house. But whose is?
The cops want to talk to our daughters, our friends, even our staff. There’s the housekeeper, the cook, the pool cleaner, the dog walker. But like me they were all out of town when he died. They won’t have anything to say about what happened. Certainly nothing that will suggest I had something to do with it…
A gripping and utterly compulsive read that will have you racing toward the last dramatic page. Fans of The Housemaid, The Perfect Marriage and anything by Lisa Jewell will be up all night reading The Lucky Widow.
When you return from a work trip to find your husband dead in the pond, it’s best not to call him a liar and a cheat in front of the cops. Especially when you’ve spent the last few years telling anyone who’ll listen that you sometimes fantasize about killing him. It makes you look kind of, well, guilty.
Now I’m suspect number one for Nathaniel’s murder and the police are snooping around our perfect home. And the house is perfect because I designed it, down to the last marbled detail. You could say I designed our marriage, too. As soon as I saw Nathaniel—so handsome, successful, a surgeon—I knew I wanted him. Sadly our marriage wasn’t quite as perfect as our house. But whose is?
The cops want to talk to our daughters, our friends, even our staff. There’s the housekeeper, the cook, the pool cleaner, the dog walker. But like me they were all out of town when he died. They won’t have anything to say about what happened. Certainly nothing that will suggest I had something to do with it…
A gripping and utterly compulsive read that will have you racing toward the last dramatic page. Fans of The Housemaid, The Perfect Marriage and anything by Lisa Jewell will be up all night reading The Lucky Widow.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 5, 2024
2281 people are currently reading
1484 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Verant
10 books462 followersSamantha Vérant is a travel addict, a self-professed oenophile, and a determined, if occasionally unconventional, at-home French chef. Over the years, she’s visited many different countries, lived in many places, and worked many jobs— always on the search for the one thing that truly excited her. Then, one day, she found everything she’s been looking for: a passion for the written word and true love. Writing not only enabled her to open her heart, it led her to southwestern France, where she’s now married to a sexy French rocket scientist she met over twenty years ago, a stepmom to two incredible kids, and the adoptive mother to one ridiculously adorable Charteux cat. When she’s not trekking from Provence to the Pyrénées, tasting wine in American-sized glasses, or embracing her inner Julia Child while deliberating what constitutes the perfect boeuf bourguignon, Samantha is making her best effort to relearn those dreaded conjugations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
June 15, 2024
I am really not sure how to rate this or review it! On the one hand, I liked the story when it focused on Emma and what she was going through. At first I wasn't sure what to think of Emma, because it was blatantly obvious that her fiance/husband's friends were even lower than the lowest rung of humanity. Yet she still wanted to marry this man.
The story has a fast pace, and is engaging once you get to the meat of the story.
It is told in multiple POV's: Emma, Detective Rossi, and Nate's.
The story involves sex trafficking- so I feel readers should be aware of this. It is not graphic, but is a very important part of the narrative.
So I will break this down to what worked for me, and what I struggled with.
What worked:
-Once the investigation of the murder got started and focused on Emma it was very interesting. I kept thinking I knew what the next incident/twist would be, and I was right maybe 60% of the time.
- The information about butterflies that opened the different sections of the story. Very interesting!
-The consistency of Emma's character once she realizes what she is facing. She truly cares about her family and the people for whom she is responsible. I felt this characteristic of her throughout the second half of the book when the focus is on discovering how despicable her husband and his friend group are.
The "What actually happened" part! No spoilers, but is was wrapped up well.
What I struggled with:
-How Emma "meets" Nate. This is hinted at (a stalkerish thing)- but never fleshed out or explained, and so I never got her "wanting this man".
-Nate's (her husband) best friends were entitled, narcissistic, vulgar, horrifying people. And they were like this through the entire novel. There was NO subtlety. I felt slimy when their characters were first introduced, and it only got worse. I realize there are awful people in the world, but it I felt these characters were written almost as a stereotypical caricature of evil sex traffickers and spoiled billionaires.
- Because of the above, I struggled with the fact that even though Emma knew from the first time she met them that they were awful, she still wanted to be a part of Nate's life and therefore, would be in these people's lives. Abby even points out a lot of things to Emma about Nate and her relationship- but though Emma knows what Abby is saying is true, she still wants him.
-Detective Rossi. Ugh! She is described as tough. Well, she comes onto the scene, and immediately shows prejudice towards Emma because Emma lives "a perfect life". She also shows this when she is describing Emma's daughters (called "spoiled brats"), and a witnesses son ("Another rich Bedford kid. Probably his brand-new BMW in the driveway. Big swagger").
Yet, within the same chapter with this same witness, she looks at his grilling apron and thinks,
"The man's The Grillfather apron makes me cringe. As an Italian, I really hate puns like that, especially when they relate to mobsters".
WHAAAAT?? This character judges everyone based on her own ideas and perceptions, but takes offense at this man's apron? It is such a contradiction, and I just could not trust the thoughts and ideas of this character because of this!
So here is the conundrum for me! It was a fast read, I liked the "mystery/thriller" part, and really liked Abby and Emma in the second part. However, my struggles kept me from really trusting the insight of the detective, and question the genuine affection Emma supposedly had for her husband.
Other readers have loved the book, without reservation. Please check out other reviews. I believe the author can write, and I might try another by her. This book seems to need tightening up for some characters, and more back story on Emma and why she wanted Nate besides "getting the perfect life".
Than you NetGalley, Storm Publishing for the ARC of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
The story has a fast pace, and is engaging once you get to the meat of the story.
It is told in multiple POV's: Emma, Detective Rossi, and Nate's.
The story involves sex trafficking- so I feel readers should be aware of this. It is not graphic, but is a very important part of the narrative.
So I will break this down to what worked for me, and what I struggled with.
What worked:
-Once the investigation of the murder got started and focused on Emma it was very interesting. I kept thinking I knew what the next incident/twist would be, and I was right maybe 60% of the time.
- The information about butterflies that opened the different sections of the story. Very interesting!
-The consistency of Emma's character once she realizes what she is facing. She truly cares about her family and the people for whom she is responsible. I felt this characteristic of her throughout the second half of the book when the focus is on discovering how despicable her husband and his friend group are.
The "What actually happened" part! No spoilers, but is was wrapped up well.
What I struggled with:
-How Emma "meets" Nate. This is hinted at (a stalkerish thing)- but never fleshed out or explained, and so I never got her "wanting this man".
-Nate's (her husband) best friends were entitled, narcissistic, vulgar, horrifying people. And they were like this through the entire novel. There was NO subtlety. I felt slimy when their characters were first introduced, and it only got worse. I realize there are awful people in the world, but it I felt these characters were written almost as a stereotypical caricature of evil sex traffickers and spoiled billionaires.
- Because of the above, I struggled with the fact that even though Emma knew from the first time she met them that they were awful, she still wanted to be a part of Nate's life and therefore, would be in these people's lives. Abby even points out a lot of things to Emma about Nate and her relationship- but though Emma knows what Abby is saying is true, she still wants him.
-Detective Rossi. Ugh! She is described as tough. Well, she comes onto the scene, and immediately shows prejudice towards Emma because Emma lives "a perfect life". She also shows this when she is describing Emma's daughters (called "spoiled brats"), and a witnesses son ("Another rich Bedford kid. Probably his brand-new BMW in the driveway. Big swagger").
Yet, within the same chapter with this same witness, she looks at his grilling apron and thinks,
"The man's The Grillfather apron makes me cringe. As an Italian, I really hate puns like that, especially when they relate to mobsters".
WHAAAAT?? This character judges everyone based on her own ideas and perceptions, but takes offense at this man's apron? It is such a contradiction, and I just could not trust the thoughts and ideas of this character because of this!
So here is the conundrum for me! It was a fast read, I liked the "mystery/thriller" part, and really liked Abby and Emma in the second part. However, my struggles kept me from really trusting the insight of the detective, and question the genuine affection Emma supposedly had for her husband.
Other readers have loved the book, without reservation. Please check out other reviews. I believe the author can write, and I might try another by her. This book seems to need tightening up for some characters, and more back story on Emma and why she wanted Nate besides "getting the perfect life".
Than you NetGalley, Storm Publishing for the ARC of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
June 22, 2024
Many thanks to the author, Samantha Verant, and Storm Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book. The publication date is set for July 05, 2024!
The Lucky Widow is a gripping domestic thriller that delves into the complexities of a seemingly perfect marriage unraveling into a web of secrets and deceit. The story is split into past and current-day timelines. I loved following Emma to the moments leading up to the murders while simultaneously seeing things unravel in the present. Adding dual POV was an excellent decision by the author/editor as it created depth from the various perspectives. Although I had a hunch the entire time, it was neat to see the story unravel and secrets/lies be exposed. The story is longer for the genre but executed nicely and fast-paced.
4-4.5 stars! ✨
If you enjoy psychological thrillers, I highly recommend this book - be sure to add it to your TBR!!!
The Lucky Widow is a gripping domestic thriller that delves into the complexities of a seemingly perfect marriage unraveling into a web of secrets and deceit. The story is split into past and current-day timelines. I loved following Emma to the moments leading up to the murders while simultaneously seeing things unravel in the present. Adding dual POV was an excellent decision by the author/editor as it created depth from the various perspectives. Although I had a hunch the entire time, it was neat to see the story unravel and secrets/lies be exposed. The story is longer for the genre but executed nicely and fast-paced.
4-4.5 stars! ✨
If you enjoy psychological thrillers, I highly recommend this book - be sure to add it to your TBR!!!
June 19, 2024
I'm hoping into my second arc!!
Thanks to Netgalley & Storm Publishing for providing me with a digital arc of Samantha Verant’s latest The Lucky Widow!
3.5!
Envisioning Nate's death is like cognitive therapy for my mental health, it takes the edge off.
Wishing your husband dead isn’t a crime, but finding him dead in your house? Well, that’s a whole different ballgame. In this crafty tale, Samantha Verant shows us that the so-called perfect life is anything but. Emma Landon, married to the rich, handsome, high-class surgeon Nathaniel Landon for fifteen years, thought she had hit the life jackpot. Turns out, winning isn’t everything—it can also be the start of a very messy unraveling.
Now, Emma is like a butterfly caught in a spider’s web, with way too much at stake. When a spouse kicks the bucket, all eyes turn to the surviving partner. Verant takes this cliché and gives it a delicious twist.
"I'm going to float like a butterfly. And then sting like a hundred killer bees.”
If you're craving a classic cop chase, this isn't your book. Our victim here is a sexual deviant, narcissist, abusive, and sociopathic—basically, a walking red flag collection. This story isn’t about who did it, but why it happened. Basically all the bad guys are just bad.
Sometimes the plot felt as predictable as a rom-com, but then it threw in a twist, like expecting a box of chocolates and finding a grenade instead. The characters? Love them or hate them, they’re complex and compelling enough to stand on their own.
I had a particular bone to pick with Detective Rossi, though. She seemed determined to pin everything on Emma because of some high school rumor. She judged everything because Emma lives the "perfect life". Despite her generally good detective skills, she was stubbornly biased, much to her colleagues' (and my) frustration. She labelled everyone around Emma, including her as "crazy", "rich", "spoiled", "can't cook but has expensive kitchen"
Emma’s character is a whirlwind of crazy, kind, and obsessed. Not exactly traits you'd pick for a best friend, but Verant makes it work.
The bad guys? They're just so bad guy coded, just evil with nothing in between. It seemed all the sociopaths banded together. It's just the matter of who came out on top.
The ending? It had me thinking, “I knew it, but also, seriously?!” It’s a bittersweet wrap-up that makes sense in a twisted, unbelievable way. If you’re up for a wild ride with a touch of dark humor, this one’s worth the read.
Thoughts while reading:
1. If you want a list of all the red flags to avoid while getting into a relationship, this book is the one! 😭
2. Aren't they both crazy??!!
3. That guy's train of thoughts are soooo disgusting 😤
Thanks to Netgalley & Storm Publishing for providing me with a digital arc of Samantha Verant’s latest The Lucky Widow!
3.5!
Envisioning Nate's death is like cognitive therapy for my mental health, it takes the edge off.
Wishing your husband dead isn’t a crime, but finding him dead in your house? Well, that’s a whole different ballgame. In this crafty tale, Samantha Verant shows us that the so-called perfect life is anything but. Emma Landon, married to the rich, handsome, high-class surgeon Nathaniel Landon for fifteen years, thought she had hit the life jackpot. Turns out, winning isn’t everything—it can also be the start of a very messy unraveling.
Now, Emma is like a butterfly caught in a spider’s web, with way too much at stake. When a spouse kicks the bucket, all eyes turn to the surviving partner. Verant takes this cliché and gives it a delicious twist.
"I'm going to float like a butterfly. And then sting like a hundred killer bees.”
If you're craving a classic cop chase, this isn't your book. Our victim here is a sexual deviant, narcissist, abusive, and sociopathic—basically, a walking red flag collection. This story isn’t about who did it, but why it happened. Basically all the bad guys are just bad.
Sometimes the plot felt as predictable as a rom-com, but then it threw in a twist, like expecting a box of chocolates and finding a grenade instead. The characters? Love them or hate them, they’re complex and compelling enough to stand on their own.
I had a particular bone to pick with Detective Rossi, though. She seemed determined to pin everything on Emma because of some high school rumor. She judged everything because Emma lives the "perfect life". Despite her generally good detective skills, she was stubbornly biased, much to her colleagues' (and my) frustration. She labelled everyone around Emma, including her as "crazy", "rich", "spoiled", "can't cook but has expensive kitchen"
Emma’s character is a whirlwind of crazy, kind, and obsessed. Not exactly traits you'd pick for a best friend, but Verant makes it work.
The bad guys? They're just so bad guy coded, just evil with nothing in between. It seemed all the sociopaths banded together. It's just the matter of who came out on top.
The ending? It had me thinking, “I knew it, but also, seriously?!” It’s a bittersweet wrap-up that makes sense in a twisted, unbelievable way. If you’re up for a wild ride with a touch of dark humor, this one’s worth the read.
Thoughts while reading:
1. If you want a list of all the red flags to avoid while getting into a relationship, this book is the one! 😭
2. Aren't they both crazy??!!
3. That guy's train of thoughts are soooo disgusting 😤
June 12, 2024
I adore the author's romances and this time she's conquered the domestic thriller genre too. Wow! I was up through the wee smalls reading to find out if Emma actually killed her handsome surgeon husband, Nate, found dead in the pond on their stunning estate. Although she was out of town the night he was killed, as were their daughters, housekeeper, cook, and dog walker (!), Emma is considered the main suspect because she publicly wished she could kill him. ... for years. Did she? Don't miss this gripping tale, sure to keep you up all night too. Brava, Samantha!
July 25, 2024
i have no words to describe how horrible this reading experience was
July 9, 2024
TW: Sex trafficking.
A wife returns home from a trip to Paris to find her wealthy husband dead in a pond on her property.
The marriage was on the rocks and both the deceased husband and the wife had planned to file for divorce.
The book's "Did the Wife Kill the Husband? premise was ultra-compelling until it wasn't.
Midway through the book, the storyline veered off course.
Had I known about the book's sex trafficking component, I never would have selected this title.
I listened to the audiobook read by Laurel Lefkow.
Although Laurel Lefkow did a superb job with the narration, the book unfolded from multiple POVs and could have used at least three additional narrators.
Not a lucky choice for me!
June 21, 2024
This book has A LOT of drama to unpack - it’s not a short book, but I’ll be up way too late tonight, because I had to see how this one ended! But to begin…Emma hates her husband Nate and wants him dead. She doesn’t make this a secret - she says it all the time, but nobody takes her seriously. Everyone says that now and then, right?
Emma, after some light stalking, got married to New York’s finest wealthy man, and they have twins, Ava and Grace. They seem to have the perfect life - he’s a cardiac surgeon and she is an interior architect who designed their massive house. But when Emma and her friend Abby return from a trip to Paris and find Nate dead in the pond on the property, all of the imperfections quickly come out.
Detective Rossi is on the case, and she’s convinced that Emma killed her husband, despite Emma being out of the country when he died. During her interviews, she finds that most people love Emma for her kindness, and most people don’t seem to be upset that Nate is dead, including Emma. What Rossi realizes is that Emma is very happy about her husband’s death, and the detective in her wants to know why.
This thriller is more than just a husband found dead and his wife being the main suspect. Without giving too much away, this book deals with some very major things, like human trafficking, domestic abuse, affairs and drugs. Nate’s friends were like having Harvey Weinstein, Jeffrey Epstein and P. Diddy as neighbors. When Emma was away, her husband definitely would play, and the results were deadly - not just for Nate.
Between Emma, her friends, Nate’s friends, and the staff of these billionaire families, there are a lot of people who could have wanted to kill Nate. The ending had twist after twist, and I didn’t see any of them coming (well, maybe the final chapter but it was still fun to read.) This book was not only thrilling and suspenseful, it tackled some tough topics while taking the reader on quite a ride. 4.5 stars, rounded up!
(Thank you to Storm Publishing, Samantha Verant and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on July 5, 2024.)
Emma, after some light stalking, got married to New York’s finest wealthy man, and they have twins, Ava and Grace. They seem to have the perfect life - he’s a cardiac surgeon and she is an interior architect who designed their massive house. But when Emma and her friend Abby return from a trip to Paris and find Nate dead in the pond on the property, all of the imperfections quickly come out.
Detective Rossi is on the case, and she’s convinced that Emma killed her husband, despite Emma being out of the country when he died. During her interviews, she finds that most people love Emma for her kindness, and most people don’t seem to be upset that Nate is dead, including Emma. What Rossi realizes is that Emma is very happy about her husband’s death, and the detective in her wants to know why.
This thriller is more than just a husband found dead and his wife being the main suspect. Without giving too much away, this book deals with some very major things, like human trafficking, domestic abuse, affairs and drugs. Nate’s friends were like having Harvey Weinstein, Jeffrey Epstein and P. Diddy as neighbors. When Emma was away, her husband definitely would play, and the results were deadly - not just for Nate.
Between Emma, her friends, Nate’s friends, and the staff of these billionaire families, there are a lot of people who could have wanted to kill Nate. The ending had twist after twist, and I didn’t see any of them coming (well, maybe the final chapter but it was still fun to read.) This book was not only thrilling and suspenseful, it tackled some tough topics while taking the reader on quite a ride. 4.5 stars, rounded up!
(Thank you to Storm Publishing, Samantha Verant and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on July 5, 2024.)
July 1, 2024
I was provided a free advanced copy of this book through Netgalley
Emma Landon hates her husband and spends most of her time contemplating ways to kill him. Fortunately for Emma, she returns home from a trip and finds out that her dream has finally come true-but now she is a suspect in his murder.
What I Liked
-The story was very fast paced
-The plot was very intriguing. I read a lot of thrillers and this one still had some surprises for me
- Emma is able to grow as a character and is not just there as a pathetic, controlled wife. She is able to summon her own strength and save herself and her family.
-Emma was smart enough to portray herself as clueless. When the cop is first interviewing her, I thought she was an idiot. Who divulges that much info without a lawyer? As the plot unfolds, I realized it was part of her plan.
What I Disliked
- The dialogue, especially the conversations between characters. The dialogue sounded so forced and not at all how people speak. This was the most frustrating part for me. The author has a really good plot, but the characters all sound like robots. For example, the housemaid, Luisa, has been with the family for many, many years. when speaking to Emma, she has to clarify which girls she is speaking about. "I'm glad our baby girls, Ava and Grace, are at their school." This is done throughout the novel. Revising the dialogue would make such a huge difference in the book.
-There were too many characters. Between the staff, her husband's friends, Emma's friends, etc... It made my head spin
- The cop. She was unlikeable.
-Narration- there was not enough distinction between the characters when they switched points of view. If the author would not have put the name of the person narrating each chapter, it would have taken me a while to even realize the narrator changed.
-Characterization- I know some of the characters were supposed to be sleazy, but some of their actions did not fit their age or social status in the book. Why would a world renown, extremely wealthy doctor have a friend who is a porn king? Sure, they might be friends in secret based on their common intrestes, but they would not be seen in public together. I am also pretty certain grown men do not fist bump. The author could have probably condensed some of the plot and worked on making the characters more realistic.
-Explain why Emma wanted to marry Nate in the first place. Why was she pretty much stalking him? This could have been one of the more interesting parts of the story, but it was barely touched on.
-This is just petty, but red haired friend- why does every damn book have a red head in it? I know maybe one red haired person and only as a very distant aquaintance. How are there so many red haired book characters??? Mind blowing.
The book was a fast paced, quick read. The author definitely has a talent for producing an interesting plot, but characters need a lot of work.
Emma Landon hates her husband and spends most of her time contemplating ways to kill him. Fortunately for Emma, she returns home from a trip and finds out that her dream has finally come true-but now she is a suspect in his murder.
What I Liked
-The story was very fast paced
-The plot was very intriguing. I read a lot of thrillers and this one still had some surprises for me
- Emma is able to grow as a character and is not just there as a pathetic, controlled wife. She is able to summon her own strength and save herself and her family.
-Emma was smart enough to portray herself as clueless. When the cop is first interviewing her, I thought she was an idiot. Who divulges that much info without a lawyer? As the plot unfolds, I realized it was part of her plan.
What I Disliked
- The dialogue, especially the conversations between characters. The dialogue sounded so forced and not at all how people speak. This was the most frustrating part for me. The author has a really good plot, but the characters all sound like robots. For example, the housemaid, Luisa, has been with the family for many, many years. when speaking to Emma, she has to clarify which girls she is speaking about. "I'm glad our baby girls, Ava and Grace, are at their school." This is done throughout the novel. Revising the dialogue would make such a huge difference in the book.
-There were too many characters. Between the staff, her husband's friends, Emma's friends, etc... It made my head spin
- The cop. She was unlikeable.
-Narration- there was not enough distinction between the characters when they switched points of view. If the author would not have put the name of the person narrating each chapter, it would have taken me a while to even realize the narrator changed.
-Characterization- I know some of the characters were supposed to be sleazy, but some of their actions did not fit their age or social status in the book. Why would a world renown, extremely wealthy doctor have a friend who is a porn king? Sure, they might be friends in secret based on their common intrestes, but they would not be seen in public together. I am also pretty certain grown men do not fist bump. The author could have probably condensed some of the plot and worked on making the characters more realistic.
-Explain why Emma wanted to marry Nate in the first place. Why was she pretty much stalking him? This could have been one of the more interesting parts of the story, but it was barely touched on.
-This is just petty, but red haired friend- why does every damn book have a red head in it? I know maybe one red haired person and only as a very distant aquaintance. How are there so many red haired book characters??? Mind blowing.
The book was a fast paced, quick read. The author definitely has a talent for producing an interesting plot, but characters need a lot of work.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2024
“As I chop, chop, chop in my head, head, head, I’m wishing my monster of a husband dead, dead, dead”
Emma Landon returns home from Paris to find her billionaire husband dead. Far from sad, Emma finally feels free. However, Detective Rossi is determined to prove that Emma had something to do with her husband’s death. Can Emma avoid a murder charge?
I enjoyed this! A fast paced thriller, I was behind Emma from the start, partly fuelled by the fact Detective Rossi was so judgemental and intent on her guilt. I loved the unravelling of the twisted billionaire, along with his seedy friends and it felt like a believable story. Ugh, I’m pleased Nate Landon is dead too!
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my advanced copy.
Emma Landon returns home from Paris to find her billionaire husband dead. Far from sad, Emma finally feels free. However, Detective Rossi is determined to prove that Emma had something to do with her husband’s death. Can Emma avoid a murder charge?
I enjoyed this! A fast paced thriller, I was behind Emma from the start, partly fuelled by the fact Detective Rossi was so judgemental and intent on her guilt. I loved the unravelling of the twisted billionaire, along with his seedy friends and it felt like a believable story. Ugh, I’m pleased Nate Landon is dead too!
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my advanced copy.
December 19, 2024
So drawn out and overly detailed. Underwhelming.
August 4, 2024
The Lucky Widow by Samantha Verant
The Lucky Widow is a fast paced psychological thriller that keeps you engaged until the very end. The number one suspect is always the husband or wife when a suspicious death happens, and of course this follows that rule. When Emma’s sleezeball husband Nate is found dead, Emma is suspect number one, even though she has an alibi. Especially when her 911 call includes comments about how her husband was a dirty cheat. As the investigation unfolds, the author takes you to a trip through time, revealing dark dangerous and deadly secrets,
I definitely enjoyed the dark secrets and the lovely revenge of a woman scorned. I enjoyed the way the author revealed the past in a way that wasn’t a flashback. While the author created some amazing characters that you love, she also did a great job creating ones that you truly hate. The story will draw you in and make it hard to put down, causing you to continue to question did Nate die of natural causes or did someone kill Nate.
The Lucky Widow is a fast paced psychological thriller that keeps you engaged until the very end. The number one suspect is always the husband or wife when a suspicious death happens, and of course this follows that rule. When Emma’s sleezeball husband Nate is found dead, Emma is suspect number one, even though she has an alibi. Especially when her 911 call includes comments about how her husband was a dirty cheat. As the investigation unfolds, the author takes you to a trip through time, revealing dark dangerous and deadly secrets,
I definitely enjoyed the dark secrets and the lovely revenge of a woman scorned. I enjoyed the way the author revealed the past in a way that wasn’t a flashback. While the author created some amazing characters that you love, she also did a great job creating ones that you truly hate. The story will draw you in and make it hard to put down, causing you to continue to question did Nate die of natural causes or did someone kill Nate.
August 22, 2024
great, really great.
July 4, 2024
This book was amazing. I thought it was a simple bad marriage/wanting to escape a rotten husband book but it just kept shocking me left and right. I didn’t expect any of those wild twists. These characters were true evil. An excellent page turner guaranteed to grasp your attention.
November 13, 2024
This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed her writing style! The thriller opens with the MC, Emma, coming home from a work trip to find her husband dead in their pond. From here, we are taken on a wild ride and investigation as to who could have wanted Nate dead.
.
Although I was able to predict the ending, I did enjoy the multiple twists and turns along the way.
I felt like the last 80 pages of the book took a nose dive. My mind was starting to drift, and I was ready for it to be wrapped up…which it finally was during the last 3-5 pages! 😆
The characters were well developed…you really only loved or hated them. There is sex trafficking mentioned later in the book. No major details, but if anyone has an aversion to that type of content, I would pass on this one.
Solid 4⭐️! Well done Verant.
.
Although I was able to predict the ending, I did enjoy the multiple twists and turns along the way.
I felt like the last 80 pages of the book took a nose dive. My mind was starting to drift, and I was ready for it to be wrapped up…which it finally was during the last 3-5 pages! 😆
The characters were well developed…you really only loved or hated them. There is sex trafficking mentioned later in the book. No major details, but if anyone has an aversion to that type of content, I would pass on this one.
Solid 4⭐️! Well done Verant.
July 24, 2024
3.5 ⭐'s rounded up!
I wouldn't necessarily classify this as a psychological thriller but still a thriller. From beginning to end, I was so in to the story and loved the ending!!
I wouldn't necessarily classify this as a psychological thriller but still a thriller. From beginning to end, I was so in to the story and loved the ending!!
November 18, 2024
A devine crime thriller! I loved the betrayal, suspicion, and suspense-I devoured The Lucky Widow.
This was the first book I’ve read by Samantha Verant. It was also one of the most unique plots I have read by an author in the psychological mystery-thriller genre. It was equally clever and witty as it was dark and deceptive. Verant has a distinct writing style that flows briskly and freely. She has a natural gift for storytelling and certainly kept me enthralled with all the increasingly unpleasant surprises.
Overall, The Lucky Widow was equal parts mysterious as it was suspenseful. If you love a fast-paced psychological mystery-thriller with loads of twists and turns, you will most likely find this one intriguing. (Audio)
Thank you Kimmy for the recommendation!!
This was the first book I’ve read by Samantha Verant. It was also one of the most unique plots I have read by an author in the psychological mystery-thriller genre. It was equally clever and witty as it was dark and deceptive. Verant has a distinct writing style that flows briskly and freely. She has a natural gift for storytelling and certainly kept me enthralled with all the increasingly unpleasant surprises.
Overall, The Lucky Widow was equal parts mysterious as it was suspenseful. If you love a fast-paced psychological mystery-thriller with loads of twists and turns, you will most likely find this one intriguing. (Audio)
Thank you Kimmy for the recommendation!!
July 14, 2024
I’m sorry to the author because it’s her first “thriller” but don’t read this. There is no thrill, no characters to get attached too, and the plot is slightly messy. Only at the 45% will you stop getting annoyed at the lead detective. She is judgmental, jealous and just overall dense. Why does she have such a vendetta against the main character? If you let that go, the main intrigue isn’t bad but should have been a lot more developed and smoothed. And I’m still waiting on the plot twist that comes with the genre? I wanted a thrill and got a predictable, bland novel.
September 4, 2024
This is such a fun book. I listened to the audio and thought the actress did a phenomenal job. It’s my favorite from Samantha Verant so far!
June 11, 2024
Content warnings. Heavy references to Pornography and sex trafficking.
Despite the content, I did enjoy this quick page turner.
It was a little far fetched of course being as it’s about billionaires but I did like how the author addressed the subject of human trafficking within the story.
The time jumps and different POVs did get a little confusing at times but was easy to sort out.
Definitely will read others by this author
I received a complimentary copy of this book and all opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Despite the content, I did enjoy this quick page turner.
It was a little far fetched of course being as it’s about billionaires but I did like how the author addressed the subject of human trafficking within the story.
The time jumps and different POVs did get a little confusing at times but was easy to sort out.
Definitely will read others by this author
I received a complimentary copy of this book and all opinions expressed are strictly my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2024
Wow! This is a tangled web that I didn’t expect! The characters were so well drawn! The plot was thick with deception. 5 Stars!!
Read
October 9, 2025Listened
October 6, 2024
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I have never read this author. I did a book preview and was hooked from the start. This story has so many layers. I really enjoyed the not knowing with 100% certainty if what I think is the true, is true. It was definitely hard to stop reading when it was time to get to work.
June 19, 2024
*****Publishing July 5, 2024****
Emma Landon comes home with her best friend, Abby, from a girl’s trip to France to find her billionaire husband, Nate Landon, dead in the pond. She calls 911 and tells them with anger she has “…pulled her lying cheating son of a bitch out of the goddamn water-“ Since Emma always joked about. wanting to kill her husband, will she become a suspect? A detective on the case is trying to find ways to prove Emma killed him, but will she have the evidence she needs?
Samantha Verant’s writing just draws you in from the start. It quickly becomes a page turner with misbehaving characters and an entertaining story! The manipulation, the speculation, the lies, and the deceit will have you turning the pages to find out the truth! A perfect book to take on vacation!
Thanks to Storm Publishing, I was provided an ARC of ‘The Lucky Widow by Samantha Verant via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Emma Landon comes home with her best friend, Abby, from a girl’s trip to France to find her billionaire husband, Nate Landon, dead in the pond. She calls 911 and tells them with anger she has “…pulled her lying cheating son of a bitch out of the goddamn water-“ Since Emma always joked about. wanting to kill her husband, will she become a suspect? A detective on the case is trying to find ways to prove Emma killed him, but will she have the evidence she needs?
Samantha Verant’s writing just draws you in from the start. It quickly becomes a page turner with misbehaving characters and an entertaining story! The manipulation, the speculation, the lies, and the deceit will have you turning the pages to find out the truth! A perfect book to take on vacation!
Thanks to Storm Publishing, I was provided an ARC of ‘The Lucky Widow by Samantha Verant via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2024
Audiobook narrated by Laura Lefkow
I found this too extreme- the villains are too villainous, the detective too unwilling to consider clues that don’t point to her favorite suspect, etc.
I found this too extreme- the villains are too villainous, the detective too unwilling to consider clues that don’t point to her favorite suspect, etc.
September 16, 2024
MAJOR SPOILERS
The only good thing about this book is it shows the importance of a reliable vs unreliable narrator. Like, 95% in you learn Emma, the main character actually WAS the murderer. Not only that, but her and her friends/family knew about the human trafficking and were working on getting them arrested, except the entirety of the book alluded to none of that. Honestly that twist was a big let down, but you’ll still feel super gratified by what happens to the terrible trash of so called human beings that are in the book.
The only good thing about this book is it shows the importance of a reliable vs unreliable narrator. Like, 95% in you learn Emma, the main character actually WAS the murderer. Not only that, but her and her friends/family knew about the human trafficking and were working on getting them arrested, except the entirety of the book alluded to none of that. Honestly that twist was a big let down, but you’ll still feel super gratified by what happens to the terrible trash of so called human beings that are in the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2024
writing is silly and unrealistic
I couldn’t stomach this after the first few chapters - just too silly. No one would behave like that at a murder scene. Felt like the author tried to hard to be relevant and clever and funny but it didn’t land. At all. Hated characters out the gate.
I couldn’t stomach this after the first few chapters - just too silly. No one would behave like that at a murder scene. Felt like the author tried to hard to be relevant and clever and funny but it didn’t land. At all. Hated characters out the gate.
July 28, 2024
I started off enjoying this one but by half way through, I couldn't have cared less what happened to any of them! I did continue (skipping bits) to the end as I wanted to find out who had killed the horrible husband, but it was several hours of my life I won't get back :(
June 10, 2024
What happens when you accidentally let out that your husband is a lying, cheating, bastard on the 911 call when you find him dead? All eyes are on you.
This is what happens to Emma when she comes back from her trip to Paris, to find her billionaire husband Nate Landon, lying face down in the pond, dead. With a detective hot on her trails, she finds herself, friends, and family under heavy scrutiny. As information is being uncovered and more in-depth truths of what this 'seemingly perfect’ family had dealings with, more sinister things are laid out that lead down a deep rabbit hole of secrets.
This book kept me on my toes, it was like watching a movie play out in front of me. Every time I thought I had a character or situation figured out, there would be another plot twist happen, making me rethink my entire perspective.
If you like The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose or any Freida McFadden books, I highly recommend this book. It is told in three different acts to help establish the setting and timeline. The different points of view help piece the story together from all angles. There is a lot of information and different characters to keep up with so do take notes, it will be worth it. You are in for a wild ride with this one, make sure to hold onto your seat!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Net Galley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is what happens to Emma when she comes back from her trip to Paris, to find her billionaire husband Nate Landon, lying face down in the pond, dead. With a detective hot on her trails, she finds herself, friends, and family under heavy scrutiny. As information is being uncovered and more in-depth truths of what this 'seemingly perfect’ family had dealings with, more sinister things are laid out that lead down a deep rabbit hole of secrets.
This book kept me on my toes, it was like watching a movie play out in front of me. Every time I thought I had a character or situation figured out, there would be another plot twist happen, making me rethink my entire perspective.
If you like The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose or any Freida McFadden books, I highly recommend this book. It is told in three different acts to help establish the setting and timeline. The different points of view help piece the story together from all angles. There is a lot of information and different characters to keep up with so do take notes, it will be worth it. You are in for a wild ride with this one, make sure to hold onto your seat!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Net Galley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2024
This suspense novel will keep you glued to the pages from start to finish. It kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly guessing but never quite able to predict the twists and turns until the very end, where everything ties together neatly.
A true page-turner. The suspense builds steadily, and just when you think you have it figured out, you’re surprised with yet another twist. The story's resolution is satisfying and well-executed, wrapping up all the loose ends in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable.
There’s clear distinction between the characters you’ll love and those you’ll love to hate. This enhances the emotional engagement and investment in the outcome.
The use of multiple timelines and points of view adds a rich depth to the story. The author manages to make these shifts easy to follow, ensuring that each perspective and timeline contributes meaningfully to the overall story.
The Lucky Widow is highly recommended for fans of suspense and thrillers. Its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and story line make it a standout! Recommended to new or seasoned suspense readers.
Thanks to netgalley!
A true page-turner. The suspense builds steadily, and just when you think you have it figured out, you’re surprised with yet another twist. The story's resolution is satisfying and well-executed, wrapping up all the loose ends in a way that feels both surprising and inevitable.
There’s clear distinction between the characters you’ll love and those you’ll love to hate. This enhances the emotional engagement and investment in the outcome.
The use of multiple timelines and points of view adds a rich depth to the story. The author manages to make these shifts easy to follow, ensuring that each perspective and timeline contributes meaningfully to the overall story.
The Lucky Widow is highly recommended for fans of suspense and thrillers. Its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and story line make it a standout! Recommended to new or seasoned suspense readers.
Thanks to netgalley!
July 2, 2024
Thank you to Samantha Verant, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. This is my voluntary review.
This book did well with describing how the "perfect" relationship between Emma and Nate appeared to people outside of the marriage and how this may have affected other people's perception and opinions on them. The book had great build up for the final plot twist, and also had constant twists and turns that kept you second guessing until the very end.
I enjoyed the dual POV writing to allow the reader to see things from Emma's POV as she is fighting to convince the police of her innocence, while also being able to see things from Nate's POV and what he was doing throughout the marriage.
I also loved Abby and her constant support for Emma the entire time. She's the perfect best friend.
I am giving this book 3 stars, because I did guess the ending pretty early, although I did find myself second guessing if I was right or not often until things started coming together.
This book did well with describing how the "perfect" relationship between Emma and Nate appeared to people outside of the marriage and how this may have affected other people's perception and opinions on them. The book had great build up for the final plot twist, and also had constant twists and turns that kept you second guessing until the very end.
I enjoyed the dual POV writing to allow the reader to see things from Emma's POV as she is fighting to convince the police of her innocence, while also being able to see things from Nate's POV and what he was doing throughout the marriage.
I also loved Abby and her constant support for Emma the entire time. She's the perfect best friend.
I am giving this book 3 stars, because I did guess the ending pretty early, although I did find myself second guessing if I was right or not often until things started coming together.
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