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That Terrible Woman
From the complex family dynamics of a small English village to the lasting scars of childhood, Edna Watson is both cantankerous and compassionate—the woman that you love to hate.
When her cousin calls to report her father’s passing, Edna sees a chance for closure of a shocking incident that happened when she was five years old. But attending her Uncle’s funeral means confronting the memory that has dogged her life with shame and insecurity.
A stranger wants to buy her house and despite her protestations, he seems intent on bullying her into submission. Why is her house so important to him?
Opening a previously unopened box belonging to her late mother, Edna revisits painful memories she’s tried to forget whilst uncovering life changing and distressing secrets.
Can she face her demons and heal decades-old wounds, or will the terrible circumstances of her childhood destroy her last chance for peace?
That Terrible Woman is a powerful and bittersweet novel of love and hate, loss and resentment, the corrosive effects of long-held grudges, and the redemption found in forgiveness.
When her cousin calls to report her father’s passing, Edna sees a chance for closure of a shocking incident that happened when she was five years old. But attending her Uncle’s funeral means confronting the memory that has dogged her life with shame and insecurity.
A stranger wants to buy her house and despite her protestations, he seems intent on bullying her into submission. Why is her house so important to him?
Opening a previously unopened box belonging to her late mother, Edna revisits painful memories she’s tried to forget whilst uncovering life changing and distressing secrets.
Can she face her demons and heal decades-old wounds, or will the terrible circumstances of her childhood destroy her last chance for peace?
That Terrible Woman is a powerful and bittersweet novel of love and hate, loss and resentment, the corrosive effects of long-held grudges, and the redemption found in forgiveness.
233 pages, Paperback
Published July 6, 2024
7 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
September 19, 2024
Jacki Racke's "That Terrible Woman" follows the life of Edna Watson, who has struggled to repress her traumatic childhood experiences. After returning to her ancestral home for a funeral, Edna is confronted with these memories and must confront their toll on her emotional stability.
The book explores how family secrets shape one's character and also shows individuals seeking inner peace amidst chaos without punishing themselves with resentment or anger. By observing each step in Edna's journey, readers can reflect upon their own selves as well.
The book is a character-driven novel that reveals its depths slowly but powerfully. The title cleverly reflects Edna's internal and external conflict—she's viewed as "terrible" by others, but this perception is born out of a deeply flawed human response to trauma. Racke does an impressive job portraying Edna's complexities, ensuring readers stay curious, even when she's at her most difficult. The novel's structure is well thought out, balancing Edna's present-day dilemmas with flashbacks to her youth. These shifts are seamless, offering critical insights into how the past shapes the present. The pacing, while sometimes slow, allows for a deeper exploration of Edna's psyche. The book doesn't rush, giving ample time for the weight of the plot's revelations to sink in. This measured pace may not suit every reader, especially those looking for fast-moving events, but for fans of introspective fiction, it adds richness. The exploration of family tension, guilt, and forgiveness carries a strong emotional punch, making it a satisfying read for those who enjoy character studies.
The resolution is thoughtful, though some of the twists toward the end come together a little too neatly. That said, the journey itself is more important than the final destination. Readers who appreciate subtle character arcs will likely find themselves drawn in. This novel is best suited for those who enjoy psychological drama and intricate, layered storytelling. The 4-star rating is earned because, while it may not be perfect, the character work and the emotional resonance leave a lasting impact.
The book explores how family secrets shape one's character and also shows individuals seeking inner peace amidst chaos without punishing themselves with resentment or anger. By observing each step in Edna's journey, readers can reflect upon their own selves as well.
The book is a character-driven novel that reveals its depths slowly but powerfully. The title cleverly reflects Edna's internal and external conflict—she's viewed as "terrible" by others, but this perception is born out of a deeply flawed human response to trauma. Racke does an impressive job portraying Edna's complexities, ensuring readers stay curious, even when she's at her most difficult. The novel's structure is well thought out, balancing Edna's present-day dilemmas with flashbacks to her youth. These shifts are seamless, offering critical insights into how the past shapes the present. The pacing, while sometimes slow, allows for a deeper exploration of Edna's psyche. The book doesn't rush, giving ample time for the weight of the plot's revelations to sink in. This measured pace may not suit every reader, especially those looking for fast-moving events, but for fans of introspective fiction, it adds richness. The exploration of family tension, guilt, and forgiveness carries a strong emotional punch, making it a satisfying read for those who enjoy character studies.
The resolution is thoughtful, though some of the twists toward the end come together a little too neatly. That said, the journey itself is more important than the final destination. Readers who appreciate subtle character arcs will likely find themselves drawn in. This novel is best suited for those who enjoy psychological drama and intricate, layered storytelling. The 4-star rating is earned because, while it may not be perfect, the character work and the emotional resonance leave a lasting impact.
September 19, 2024
Jacki Racke's "That Terrible Woman" follows the life of Edna Watson, who has struggled to repress her traumatic childhood experiences. After returning to her ancestral home for a funeral, Edna is confronted with these memories and must confront their toll on her emotional stability.
The book explores how family secrets shape one's character and also shows individuals seeking inner peace amidst chaos without punishing themselves with resentment or anger. By observing each step in Edna's journey, readers can reflect upon their own selves as well.
The book is a character-driven novel that reveals its depths slowly but powerfully. The title cleverly reflects Edna's internal and external conflict—she's viewed as "terrible" by others, but this perception is born out of a deeply flawed human response to trauma. Racke does an impressive job portraying Edna's complexities, ensuring readers stay curious, even when she's at her most difficult. The novel's structure is well thought out, balancing Edna's present-day dilemmas with flashbacks to her youth. These shifts are seamless, offering critical insights into how the past shapes the present. The pacing, while sometimes slow, allows for a deeper exploration of Edna's psyche. The book doesn't rush, giving ample time for the weight of the plot's revelations to sink in. This measured pace may not suit every reader, especially those looking for fast-moving events, but for fans of introspective fiction, it adds richness. The exploration of family tension, guilt, and forgiveness carries a strong emotional punch, making it a satisfying read for those who enjoy character studies.
The resolution is thoughtful, though some of the twists toward the end come together a little too neatly. That said, the journey itself is more important than the final destination. Readers who appreciate subtle character arcs will likely find themselves drawn in. This novel is best suited for those who enjoy psychological drama and intricate, layered storytelling. The 4-star rating is earned because, while it may not be perfect, the character work and the emotional resonance leave a lasting impact.
The book explores how family secrets shape one's character and also shows individuals seeking inner peace amidst chaos without punishing themselves with resentment or anger. By observing each step in Edna's journey, readers can reflect upon their own selves as well.
The book is a character-driven novel that reveals its depths slowly but powerfully. The title cleverly reflects Edna's internal and external conflict—she's viewed as "terrible" by others, but this perception is born out of a deeply flawed human response to trauma. Racke does an impressive job portraying Edna's complexities, ensuring readers stay curious, even when she's at her most difficult. The novel's structure is well thought out, balancing Edna's present-day dilemmas with flashbacks to her youth. These shifts are seamless, offering critical insights into how the past shapes the present. The pacing, while sometimes slow, allows for a deeper exploration of Edna's psyche. The book doesn't rush, giving ample time for the weight of the plot's revelations to sink in. This measured pace may not suit every reader, especially those looking for fast-moving events, but for fans of introspective fiction, it adds richness. The exploration of family tension, guilt, and forgiveness carries a strong emotional punch, making it a satisfying read for those who enjoy character studies.
The resolution is thoughtful, though some of the twists toward the end come together a little too neatly. That said, the journey itself is more important than the final destination. Readers who appreciate subtle character arcs will likely find themselves drawn in. This novel is best suited for those who enjoy psychological drama and intricate, layered storytelling. The 4-star rating is earned because, while it may not be perfect, the character work and the emotional resonance leave a lasting impact.
September 13, 2024
"That Terrible Woman" offers readers a deeply engaging and emotionally complex journey through the tangled web of family dynamics, personal trauma, and the quest for redemption. Centered on Edna Watson, a character as layered as she is enigmatic, the novel deftly explores themes of love, hate, and the shadows cast by our past.
Edna Watson, the eponymous "terrible woman," is portrayed with a compelling blend of cantankerousness and compassion. Her complexity as a character makes her both intriguing and frustrating—someone readers will find themselves loving even as they grapple with their own judgments of her flaws. The story begins with Edna receiving a call about her father's death, a moment that stirs up a whirlwind of unresolved emotions and repressed memories from her childhood.
The narrative cleverly interweaves Edna’s past and present, unraveling the dark incident from her youth that has shaped her entire life. This incident, which is gradually revealed through the course of the novel, is the key to understanding her insecurities and the driving force behind her strained relationships. As Edna returns to her hometown for her uncle’s funeral, she is forced to confront these painful memories head-on. The setting of a small English village adds a layer of intimacy and isolation, amplifying the emotional intensity of Edna’s internal struggle.
"That Terrible Woman" is a powerful narrative that shines a light on the corrosive effects of long-held grudges and the potential for healing through forgiveness. The novel’s portrayal of Edna is both empathetic and unflinching, making it a deeply resonant read. It’s a story that challenges readers to confront their own pasts and the people who have shaped them, ultimately offering a hopeful message about the possibility of redemption and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Edna Watson, the eponymous "terrible woman," is portrayed with a compelling blend of cantankerousness and compassion. Her complexity as a character makes her both intriguing and frustrating—someone readers will find themselves loving even as they grapple with their own judgments of her flaws. The story begins with Edna receiving a call about her father's death, a moment that stirs up a whirlwind of unresolved emotions and repressed memories from her childhood.
The narrative cleverly interweaves Edna’s past and present, unraveling the dark incident from her youth that has shaped her entire life. This incident, which is gradually revealed through the course of the novel, is the key to understanding her insecurities and the driving force behind her strained relationships. As Edna returns to her hometown for her uncle’s funeral, she is forced to confront these painful memories head-on. The setting of a small English village adds a layer of intimacy and isolation, amplifying the emotional intensity of Edna’s internal struggle.
"That Terrible Woman" is a powerful narrative that shines a light on the corrosive effects of long-held grudges and the potential for healing through forgiveness. The novel’s portrayal of Edna is both empathetic and unflinching, making it a deeply resonant read. It’s a story that challenges readers to confront their own pasts and the people who have shaped them, ultimately offering a hopeful message about the possibility of redemption and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
September 16, 2024
That Terrible Woman" is not just about Edna Watson – it is about all of us, in a way. Edna is the person who has been hardened by life, misunderstood by those around her, and perhaps even by herself. You might not want to sit next to her at dinner, but you will want to understand what has made her difficult. After her father passes away, long-buried memories come to the surface, and all of a sudden, a childhood trauma she has avoided her entire life starts to surface.
The stranger who curiously insists on purchasing her house throws the plot for a loop. At first, it feels like a distraction, but as things unfold, you realize it is connected to something deeper. Why does her house matter so much to him? The way that question lingers throughout adds just the right amount of mystery without taking the focus away from Edna’s battle.
Ultimately, this book is not about Edna changing into a new person or rounding her edges. It is about her overcoming the aspects of her past that have burdened her for a very long time. Life seldom provides simple solutions or ideal conclusions, so the story does not either. Edna experiences small and great triumphs along her journey, and even though she does not emerge entirely changed, her survival gives her quiet strength. Even though you won't fall in love with her as a character, you will understand why her story is important and you might even come to respect her for it.
The stranger who curiously insists on purchasing her house throws the plot for a loop. At first, it feels like a distraction, but as things unfold, you realize it is connected to something deeper. Why does her house matter so much to him? The way that question lingers throughout adds just the right amount of mystery without taking the focus away from Edna’s battle.
Ultimately, this book is not about Edna changing into a new person or rounding her edges. It is about her overcoming the aspects of her past that have burdened her for a very long time. Life seldom provides simple solutions or ideal conclusions, so the story does not either. Edna experiences small and great triumphs along her journey, and even though she does not emerge entirely changed, her survival gives her quiet strength. Even though you won't fall in love with her as a character, you will understand why her story is important and you might even come to respect her for it.
October 20, 2024
I received this book from NetGalley.
The blurb wasn't super descriptive but the name sounded good so I thought I'd give it a try!
However, after reading 32% of the book not much has happened. I'm enjoying the bits from the journal but that's all we really know so far. Just bits and bobs about the upcoming funeral and the people looking to buy the house. I feel like there are just a lot of loose bits hanging about. Also, there is so much focus on Edna eating. Every second page seems to have her munching on something - in a movie that's fine but in a book? I don't need to hear every time she eats a custard cream.
There is so much backwards and forwards in this book that sometimes it's difficult to tell when Edna comes back to reality and when she's reminiscing. I also think there is too much. If it was a book about her life then these anecdotes would be great. But the main part of the book seems to be the people trying to buy her house so it doesn't feel like it fits.
The end of this book was a let down. She just...died?! There was no point in the people trying to buy her house. It wasn't necessary and the book could have done without it. Honestly, this book had too much going on for me.
The blurb wasn't super descriptive but the name sounded good so I thought I'd give it a try!
However, after reading 32% of the book not much has happened. I'm enjoying the bits from the journal but that's all we really know so far. Just bits and bobs about the upcoming funeral and the people looking to buy the house. I feel like there are just a lot of loose bits hanging about. Also, there is so much focus on Edna eating. Every second page seems to have her munching on something - in a movie that's fine but in a book? I don't need to hear every time she eats a custard cream.
There is so much backwards and forwards in this book that sometimes it's difficult to tell when Edna comes back to reality and when she's reminiscing. I also think there is too much. If it was a book about her life then these anecdotes would be great. But the main part of the book seems to be the people trying to buy her house so it doesn't feel like it fits.
The end of this book was a let down. She just...died?! There was no point in the people trying to buy her house. It wasn't necessary and the book could have done without it. Honestly, this book had too much going on for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2024
Edna Watson, the protagonist of Jacki Racke's "That Terrible Woman", is portrayed as a woman who struggled due to a traumatic childhood is often perceived as difficult or dismissive from others. However, behind her wolfish exterior lies a kind and generous soul. When her uncle passed away, it unearths long-buried family secrets, propelling Edna into a journey of self-discovery, delving into her mother's journal, reading unread letters from her mother's former lover's son, finding out that she was adopted, grappling with her unresolved family tension – all while battling cancer and fending off land developers from attempts to oust her from her estate.
The story begins with a witty portrayal of Edna's typical day, however, as the narrative progresses, the connection between the various plotlines fails to coalesce with each other and some parts are anti-climactic. While Racke's novel offers an intriguing premise and a complex main character, Edna’s character was well-crafted and the overarching theme of forgiveness and seeking your inner peace amidst life’s chaos.
The story begins with a witty portrayal of Edna's typical day, however, as the narrative progresses, the connection between the various plotlines fails to coalesce with each other and some parts are anti-climactic. While Racke's novel offers an intriguing premise and a complex main character, Edna’s character was well-crafted and the overarching theme of forgiveness and seeking your inner peace amidst life’s chaos.
October 19, 2024
I loved this story. Throughout the story your emotions towards Edna change with almost every page turn. This is a story of complicated family and the scars of childhood and the lasting effects it can have on people. I thought Edna was a comlex character, she was both loveable and cantankerous. But you find yourself cheering her on thoughout the book either way. In some ways I thought that Edna was a relatable character, she dealt with situations in a very realistic and human way. This book is very powerful and bittersweet, from Edna suffering love and hate, loss and pain. I found this book a very easy unputdownable read. It was very well written. I'd definitely read a book by Jackie Racke again.
September 19, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this well written story. Edna is a complex interesting character and the story was poignant and heart wrenching. The detailed story is filled with secrets and heartbreak. This novel is of resentment and redemption after years of holding in all the pain of the past and finally forgiveness. I recommend this book as it is a real page turner and a must read! I would love to be able to meet this author one day!
October 4, 2024
Everybody is sure that Edna is a terrible woman. Why is she so rude? Why does she judge everybody?
This novel takes us back in her childhood and the life of her mother.
The story is credible, even if the end is a bit sudden and not quite relatable.
This novel takes us back in her childhood and the life of her mother.
The story is credible, even if the end is a bit sudden and not quite relatable.
November 26, 2024
This was a story that kept me wanting to read more, although there was more than enough descriptions of the main character eating. I enjoyed how the author gave glimpses into the back story of some of the characters throughout the plot development.
January 4, 2026
Any interesting story arc with several twists. The main mystery is unpicking why the main character is such a curmudgeon. Too much domestic detail for my taste but nevertheless this was a book I read in just two sittings, which must be a recommendation in itself!
January 22, 2025
Beautifully written
Family secrets ..love ..loneliness..all wrapped in a blustery curmudgeon named Edna ..read her story ..a beautiful story will make you laugh and cry ..
Family secrets ..love ..loneliness..all wrapped in a blustery curmudgeon named Edna ..read her story ..a beautiful story will make you laugh and cry ..
October 26, 2025
Instantly entertaining. A crotchety old woman remaining set in her ways after the loss of her husband. Other family secrets revisited and confronted, lead to remorse and turn around. Enjoyable, but I hoped for a better ending
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews