The Widow's Lie

by Melanie Price

“WOW WOW WOW!!! Absolutely mind-blowing! Couldn't put it down!!!... My heart was racing... This one absolutely floored me it was just so completely awesome... I literally couldn't put this down... I actually forgot to make dinner and got takeaway and just couldn't stop till I was done... LOVED THIS! A MILLION STARS!” Amazon Reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

I was so excited to welcome Anastasia Drummond to our pretty little street. But the moment I meet her, my heart stops. Because I know those ice-cold eyes. She looks like my husband’s ex-wife. The one who went missing. The one declared dead over a decade ago…

I’m determined to get to the bottom of this strange coincidence. But my husband, Charles, tells me I’m just imagining things.

Anastasia is a beautiful young widow and has moved to our idyllic, tree-lined avenue for a fresh start with her little girl. All my friends love our glamorous new neighbor, and my daughter, Matilda, wants nothing more than to play with her new best friend over the road.

Just as I’m about to accept my husband’s pleadings and put it down to paranoia, Anastasia says something that turns my world upside down. I can’t stop my hands from shaking as my blood runs cold. Does she know the one thing about me that she shouldn’t?

Now, I am sure Anastasia is lying.

And as my perfect life begins to crumble around me, I realize that my baby girl and I might really be in terrible danger.

But I have a plan of my own. This “widow” has no idea how far I’ll go to keep my family, and my secrets, safe…

An absolutely unputdownable psychological thriller that will have you glued to the pages and screaming at your Kindle at the jaw-dropping twist. If you love The Perfect Marriage , Gone Girl and anything by Lisa Jewell or Nicola Sanders, you’ll be hooked on The Widow's Lie!

Readers LOVE The Widow's Lie:

“OMG OMG WOW!!!!!! My jaw hit the floor literally a gazillion times... I can't even tell you how much I loooved this... Right from that first sentence I was sooo hooked... I thought I knew who to trust but BOY was I wrong!... Wow it was like a crazy rollercoaster... I read it in one sitting... I have basically been a zombie today. But so worth it!! LOVED LOVED LOVED THIS!” Amazon Reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

“AMAZING - Gripped from the very start!... WOW... I inhaled this book in one sitting!... So many jaw-dropping twists... I was holding my breath... I was COMPLETELY HOOKED... Never saw that last twist coming… Absolutely brilliant!!!” Amazon Reviewer, ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

“Wowzer!!! ABSOLUTELY HOOOOOOKED!... I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down.

Genres: Thriller, Audiobook, Fiction

367 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 26, 2024

About the author

Visit my website to receive an exclusive short story, absolutely free!

Melanie Price is the author of The Mother-in-Law's Secret and My Perfect Family. She grew up in Sydney but now lives in London. All of her books explore the intricacies of living between Australia and the United Kingdom – with twists and turns galore. The Mother-in-Law's Secret is her debut novel.

Reviews

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this author a year ago, and this book reinforces why she will always be an auto-buy for me!

If you thought it was just the widow lying, you would be...wrong! Everyone in this book seems to be hiding something. The irony is that Jacqueline moved on to this quiet cul-de-sac partly for the privacy, but then she goes snooping when her neighbor Anastasia moves in. You can practically see the curtains twitching, Jacqueline standing there with a cup of coffee, her eagle eyes on her neighbor's property. There is one thing that Jacqueline is happy about, and that is that her daughter and Anastasia's become fast friends. Much more than the moms, who are always trying to outdo each other. Anastasia seems to be undermining Jacqueline with her friends. And Jacqueline thinks her husband is a little too friendly with Anastasia.

The way Price weaves her tale, you can almost feel the cattiness of the exclusive community. The secrets are revealed with a true sense of the humanity behind them. I love how Price tells the story from both POVs, forcing us to take both sides as the story unwinds. But how can you know? Who can you trust? And that is what kept this reader glued to the pages.

Thank you to Love Books Tours for bringing me the best arcs of new-to-me authors !

[Gemma Swan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’ve never been so glad to finish a book omg the last scene was fr 30% of the entire thing that was AWFUL

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚫️The Widow's Lie by Melanie Price is (indeed) an absolutely unputdownable psychological thriller that will have readers on the edge of their seats from the first page to the last. With its chilling premise, complex characters and jaw-dropping twists, this novel is a must-read for fans of psychological suspense. The story centers around a seemingly perfect neighborhood however, the arrival of Anastasia Drummonda young widow with a daughterdisrupts the peace of the street in a way no one could have anticipated. When the protagonist meets Anastasia, she is struck by the unsettling resemblance to her husband’s ex-wife: the woman who vanished without a trace over a decade ago. As the mystery deepens, the narrator becomes consumed by suspicion, especially because of a strange comment from Anastasia that hints at secrets only she should know. The tension escalates quickly, but the story takes readers on a roller-coaster ride of paranoia, lies and hidden truths (this is what keeps you turning the pages).

⚫️Melanie Price excels at building suspense throughout the novel (1) gradually unraveling the layers of each character's motivations and secrets. The protagonist's growing unease (2) and the increasing sense that something is terribly wrong make it easy for readers to get swept up in her emotional turmoil. Anastasia, the enigmatic widow, is an intriguing and unsettling figure (3) whose every move keeps readers guessing. The real genius of The Widow's Lie lies in its unexpected twists. Just when one thinks they have the plot figured out, Price delivers a bombshell that changes everything. These twists are carefully crafted, surprising yet entirely believable; however, they will leave readers gasping in disbelief. Without giving too much away, the final twist is truly breathtaking (4), leaving readers scrambling to re-evaluate everything they've read up until that point, this is because the narrative continuously challenges expectations.

⚫️The pacing of the novel is relentless; with short chapters that are perfectly designed to build tension, it’s hard to stop reading. Price creates an atmosphere of increasing dread because the protagonist tries to unravel the mystery of Anastasia’s true identity, all while dealing with her own complicated relationships and mounting fears for her family’s safety. The writing is sharp and evocative, pulling the reader deep into the characters' minds and emotions.

⚫️Price does a fantastic job of portraying the inner conflict and moral dilemmas of her characters especially as their lives become tangled in lies, manipulation and betrayal. The Widow's Lie is a thrilling, high-stakes psychological drama that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

⚫️Perfect for fans of Gone Girl, The Perfect Marriage and authors like Lisa Jewell and Nicola Sanders, this book delivers on every level. If you love a story with complex characters, dark secrets and twists that will leave you speechless, this novel is a must-read. Prepare to stay up late; however, you won’t be able to put it down!

Happy reading ❤️✨

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a quiet suburb of Bristol, Jacqueline, married to Charles, a successful Barrister, is consumed with curiosity and intrigue as she watches the arrival of their new neighbour Anna and daughter Sofia. She soon becomes convinced that Anna is here to destroy her marriage and uncover the secret that Jacqueline has so carefully managed to keep. The twists and turns of this book are incredible and will keep you guessing right to the end which in itself is a total surprise.

[Amorina Carlton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my second book by Melanie Price, and I absolutely devoured it. If you need something to get you through the haze of post-Christmas and pre-New Year blues, she has absolutely got you covered! The timing of the release is absolutely perfect!!

This book has the intrigue, secrecy, and espionage of a spy thriller wrapped up in the skin of a domestic thriller. I honestly think that people who prefer spy books would enjoy this one, but don't quote me on that. I was certainly on the edge of my seat, but I already enjoyed a good domestic thriller. Whether it be neighbors hiding secrets behind the curtains or sisters/brothers/friends trying to make sure they don't spill secrets with their wine, I'm here for it. But don't think that means there's no action in books like these, if you're not familiar. There is plenty. In this one alone, you'll find kidnapping, attempted murder, identity theft, and so much more! How anyone might think domestic thrillers are any less thrilling than other genres is beyond me.

The titular lie is an absolute doozy, and despite being the title of the book, it's a huge twist that I certainly didn't see coming. But it's far from the only one, and it'll keep you guessing and turning the pages as fast as you can! I read the book in like 24 hours, which is a rare luxury these days, but I couldn't put it down! I just had to know what was going to happen - and what was going on!

I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. I couldn't decide who to trust, despite liking most of the ladies and the girls. The author did a great job of balancing the writing such that I liked the characters, even when they seemed a little untrustworthy - making them seem like maybe there was a good reason for their actions and maybe everything could be okay.

I really enjoyed this book, and I look forward to reading the author's backlist and what comes next!

Who's It For?

If you love a good, twisty domestic thriller where you can't figure out who to trust, who to like, and who's the good guy, this book is for you! If you enjoy any thrillers, I believe that you will love this book! But, as usual, with a thriller, it deals with topics that may make some readers uncomfortable, so be sure to check the content warnings.

Content Warnings: Death, Murder, Drug Use, Overdose, Suicide, Pregnancy, Child Abandonment, Child Neglect, Dysfunctional Families, Domestic Abuse, Adoption, Kidnapping, Betrayal, Violence. This is not meant to serve as a complete list of subjects that individuals may find potentially bothersome.

[Anna Peterson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hoping for a great read…and THIS wasn’t it.

It was one of the times I nearly quit reading midway through the book. But I perservered. It wasn’t until the last few chapters that the pace finally picked up. Everyone had a secret and they all came out in the end. It was a tangled web they all wove. And one more thing…WHY must these characters chew their lips and the inside of their cheeks? Why must they all run their hands through their when they’re stressed. Then their are the scenes where some bad news causes them to almost vomit! Is that realistic? Many times their smiles don’t reach their eyes. And then there is the ever present lopsided grin! Ok, I’m done. Hope you all like it better than I did. It’s time for me to find a satisfying read.

[Mafalda Dias · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐

[Claire Page · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really didn't like the writing style.
I didn't like any character in particular. I wasn't routing for anyone.
The twist and ending was ridiculous frankly.

Not for me. Was a real struggle to finish. Wouldn't have finished if it wasn't the first pick for our book club

[Sarah Messenger · Rating 4 out of 5]

A real page turner and twisted read.

[Julie Godsoe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book with lots of twists but I didn’t like the way it was written.

[Christopher Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Widow's Lie" by Melanie Price is a twisty, suspenseful thriller that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go until the very end. The story is narrated by Jacqueline, a successful real estate agent in the South West of England, whose life is disrupted by the arrival of a new neighbor, Anastasia Drummond, a wealthy and enigmatic widow with a scandalous past. Jacqueline, who admits to being obsessively curious, becomes consumed with discovering the truth about Anastasia and her reasons for moving to their neighborhood, setting in motion a chain of events that will lead to shocking revelations and dangerous consequences.

Price masterfully builds tension throughout the novel, using Jacqueline's perspective to draw the reader into her growing paranoia and suspicion. From the start, Jacqueline is an unreliable narrator, admitting to snooping around the new neighbor's property and letting her imagination run wild with the various theories about Anastasia. This unreliability creates a sense of unease, making the reader question Jacqueline's perceptions and motives, and adding layers of complexity to her character. Her internal monologue is filled with witty observations and a sharp tongue that makes her a compelling and engaging character, even as her actions become more questionable.

The author weaves together multiple plot threads to create a rich and intricate narrative. Beyond Jacqueline's obsession with Anastasia, there is her complex relationship with her husband, Charles, who is a barrister with his own secrets. Their marriage is portrayed as somewhat strained, with Jacqueline acknowledging a rocky period and their attempts to rekindle their romance. Adding to the complexity, Charles seems to be drawn to Anastasia, which fuels Jacqueline’s jealousy and intensifies her determination to uncover the truth about her neighbor. The author also explores the pressures of motherhood and the challenges of balancing work and family life, as Jacqueline often finds herself torn between her responsibilities and her all-consuming curiosity.

**The supporting characters are also well-developed and add depth to the narrative**. Jacqueline's daughter, Matilda, is a bookish and intelligent girl who often provides a counterpoint to her mother's more impulsive nature. Charles is a complex character, whose motivations are not always clear. His devotion to his work is often contrasted with his desire for peace and quiet, making it difficult to truly know him. The introduction of Charles's brother, Freddie, further complicates matters. Freddie is a charming and charismatic figure, who seems to have his own agenda, adding another layer of mystery to the plot. There are also other supporting characters that play significant roles in the novel, including friends, acquaintances, and even a figure from Anastasia's past, all who add to the suspense and intrigue.

The setting of the novel in a wealthy suburb of Bristol, England, adds to the overall atmosphere of suspense. The descriptions of the grand houses, manicured gardens, and private school environment create a sense of privilege and secrecy, where appearances can be deceiving. The contrast between Jacqueline's more modest home and Anastasia's luxurious renovations highlights the class differences that underpin much of the story. The use of locations like the school, the library, and the local café also serve as backdrops for crucial events and conversations.

Price’s writing style is sharp and engaging, with a good mix of dialogue and internal monologue. The narrative moves at a brisk pace, keeping the reader hooked and eager to see what happens next. The author’s use of foreshadowing and red herrings also contributes to the suspense, making the reader question everything and everyone. **The novel is divided into short chapters, each ending with a hook that compels the reader to keep turning the pages**.

"The Widow's Lie" is a story about secrets, lies, and the dangerous consequences of obsession. It delves into the complexities of human relationships, the destructive power of jealousy, and the lengths people will go to protect those they love. The novel also explores themes of identity, family, and the burden of the past. All these elements come together to make this a compelling and thought-provoking read.

**What I especially enjoyed**:

* The unreliable narrator: Jacqueline's internal thoughts and flawed actions make her a captivating protagonist.
* The intricate plot: The various storylines and subplots weave together seamlessly to create a suspenseful narrative.
* The well-developed characters: Each character has their own motivations and secrets, making them feel realistic and complex.
* The atmospheric setting: The wealthy suburb of Bristol creates a perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama.
* The pacing: The book moves at a good pace, keeping the reader hooked and eager to see what happens next.
* The twisty plot: Just when you think you have everything figured out, another twist comes along.

"The Widow's Lie" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. **It’s a book that will keep you guessing until the very end**, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. It's a compelling story with complex characters, a suspenseful plot, and a surprising ending. If you like thrillers that explore the darker side of human nature and the secrets that people keep, then you won't want to miss this book. It will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

[Alexia · Rating 2 out of 5]

This psychological thriller evolves around the well-crafted, secret pasts of Anna and Jacqueline, who have everything to lose should their lies be revealed. When Anna, the attractive rich widow with a tween daughter moves across the street from Jacqueline, Jacqueline is highly suspicious of Anna's motives. Despite sharing her concerns with Charles, he dismisses them outright and which creates more strain in their marriage which began to crack the year prior. As more concerns about Anna's recent husband's death come to light, Jacqueline learns more information about Anna's past and quickly realizes that their pasts are more intertwined than she first realized.

I've seen this book receive much higher ratings for all of its twists and turns and indeed it has that. However the twists and turns need to follow through from A-Z and need to make sense.

Jasper hired a private investigator to learn more about Anna. He learned the basics about where Anna lived in the States. Since Anna's stepfather had died (whether it was murder/accident), there should have been information about this somewhere. Anna was involved with Nate since high school and she birthed Sofia, there would documentation of this, too.

The situation with Ruby/Jacqueline is much more layered and this makes more sense why she was able to get away with this "transition." However what doesn't make sense is why Anna seeing the name Jacqueline Kelly makes her think automatically "Gee, this woman is impersonating my sister." Neither name is that unique. I personally didn't buy it.

In the "secret reveal" situation led by Nate, only Ruby/Jacqueline and Freddie told all and in a neat package, they die. Charles continued to gaslight which he does through the entire book and Anna gets to keep the majority of her secrets. Now she, Charles, and the two tweens live happily ever after. How is that okay? Because of her move to Bristol, that's how this whole situation started.

By the end of the book, I wasn't impressed by any of them.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jacqueline pretty much has it all. She has a comfortable life in a nice area and is fully involved with the PTA for her daughter’s school. She is however hiding something from her past and will stop at nothing to ensure that it remains fully in the past. When Anastasia moves into the house across the road, Jacqueline feels threatened that her secret is about to be revealed.

I enjoyed how the story is laid out with the first part being from Jacqueline’s point of view and then further on it swaps to Anastasia who has her own secrets to hide. Towards the end the chapters then start alternating between both. Within the first chapter I was totally hooked and I ended up reading it in two sittings. The tension ramps up the further into the story you go and I wasn’t prepared for the first twist as it came at a very unexpected time and knocked me sideways.

I wouldn’t say the characters are overly likeable but there is no denying that both these women want what is best for their daughters. By the end I felt empathy for both of the women whose goal is ultimately the same thing. There is only a small cast of characters which added to the tension. Most I took at face value only to be taken by surprise but the less said about that the better!

The Widow’s Lie is my first book by the author and definitely won’t be my last. I hadn’t expected the amount of twists that were in the story which heightened my enjoyment even more. It had me racing through the pages with some of the twists making me have to go back and re-read them again to make sure I had read it correctly. Packed full of secrets and lies this was an absolute page turner with some jaw dropping twists that totally has the shock factor right up until the very last page, loved it!

[mommy_and_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

" [...] I make a promise: I will discover the truth, no matter what. Because nothing and no one can come in the way of the life I have worked so hard to build. [...]"

"The Widow's Lie" by Melanie Price is an excellent psychological thriller that gives me chills. There were moments when I didn't know who to trust. One moment I was on one character's side, and the next I changed my mind. And everything changed after reaching the finale, which was totally beyond me. I love such endings.

I met two main characters:
- Jacqueline - a good wife and devoted mother. For the good of her family, she is able to do literally anything. This woman is quite mysterious and hides something from us. I tried to find out what it is. I will be honest, this person surprised me a lot.
- Anna - she is the second very important character. She is a widow. She is raising a daughter by herself. She is currently Jacqueline's new neighbour. I wanted to learn more about all her secrets that she tries so hard to hide. It's worth taking a closer look at.

I'm glad that Melanie Price presented the stories of both women so well. They tug hard at your heart strings.

If, like me, you love strong psychological thrillers and like to learn the secrets of your new neighbours, then feel free to reach for "The Widow's Lie". You won't be disappointed.

Picking up this book, you will receive an interesting plot, excellent action, characters that you have to watch carefully, lots of mysteries and secrets, and danger that lurks around the corner. Melanie Price proves that the past can sometimes catch up with a person.

Are you ready for the arrival of the mysterious widow?

Is Melanie Price's books worth reading?

Of course, it is.

[Nicola Hancock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Split into three parts. I love a prologue that builds the intensity before you even begin and you have to wait to find out more. Then just like that you’re thrown to two months before. I’ve read a book by Melanie before and I get so caught up in the descriptions, the detail allows you to emotionally connect and visualise everything. Especially the details within the homes and outskirts of Bristol.

That huge bombshell at the end of chapter 10. My mind was spinning I couldn’t help thinking that Jacqueline was right to have a suspicious mind. Then another huge bombshell at the end of Part 1. There’s so many secrets from multiple people. Then part 2 flicks to Anna’s perspective. As soon as there was changes in perspectives I found that it became such a fast read and impossible to put down.

Part 3 was nothing like I’ve ever read before. It was so tense, everything was coming out and getting revealed left right and centre and I was just left reading with my mouth open. I was living for every single page. I know I’ve finished in 2025 but this was probably the best psychological thriller of 2024 for me.

[Teresa Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Widow’s Lie
Melanie Price
12/26/2024
Wendlebury
(Available on KU now)

The Widow’s Lie is a perfect example of an unputdownable, bingeable and twisted psychological thriller that we have grown to love! Everyone seems to be hiding something, but this book will keep you waiting until the end for all the secrets to unfold. You will not know who to trust or which side to take. Price gives you two POV’s and you will switch sides each time!

The story takes place in a seemingly idyllic neighborhood, where the arrival of Anastasia Drummond, a young widow with a daughter, disrupts the calm in ways no one could foresee. When the protagonist, Jacqueline, meets Anastasia, she's struck by the uncanny resemblance to her husband's former wife—the woman who mysteriously disappeared more than a decade ago. As the mystery unfolds, the narrator’s suspicions intensify, especially after a cryptic remark from Anastasia suggests she knows secrets no one else should. What follows is a thrilling journey through escalating tension, secrets, and deception. It’s snowing here, go ahead and keg out on the couch and read it. You know you want to.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Widow's Lie is a fast-paced, psychological thriller, perfect for curling up with on a cold winters day.

Full of complex and multidimensional characters, the twists and turns will keep you guessing until the end. Someone told me recently (after I recommended a similar book) that she doesn't like this genre, as the people in them are never realistic. But that's why I enjoy them. The characters are so unlike anyone I know in real life! It seems that everyone had secrets, and I was never sure who I could trust. I also liked that no-one was completely good, or completely bad. Much like real people.

The storyline had me hooked right from the beginning. There was just enough background that I felt I knew the characters, without giving away too much too soon.

Melanie really is an expert at her craft, and I know that when I get hold of one of her books I have to clear an afternoon in my diary so I can just read it.

[Karolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m determined to get to the bottom of this strange coincidence. But my husband, Charles, tells me I’m just imagining things.
Anastasia is a beautiful young widow and has moved to our idyllic, tree-lined avenue for a fresh start with her little girl. All my friends love our glamorous new neighbor, and my daughter, Matilda, wants nothing more than to play with her new best friend over the road.
Just as I’m about to accept my husband’s pleadings and put it down to paranoia, Anastasia says something that turns my world upside down. I can’t stop my hands from shaking as my blood runs cold. Does she know the one thing about me that she shouldn’t?
Now, I am sure Anastasia is lying.
And as my perfect life begins to crumble around me, I realize that my baby girl and I might really be in terrible danger.
But I have a plan of my own. This “widow” has no idea how far I’ll go to keep my family, and my secrets, safe…

[Karen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disappointed with narration and more…
You’ve read the description, so you know the basic plot. I chose “The Widow’s Lie” because I thought it would be presented by U.K. narrators (obviously mistaken). Where is Rose Robinson, a longtime favorite of mine? Imagine my disappointment when the book started out with a U.S. narrator. Presentation was a major letdown after realizing Rose Robinson’s exquisite British vocals were missing. Author Melanie Price is no stranger to me and I was looking forward to this listen. The plot is exceedingly well-done with surprise twists and hidden secrets. However, “The Widow’s Lie” tragically took a downward spiral within three hours and I found myself at the intersection of Confusion and Disappointment. Thankfully, I didn’t spend a treasured credit. I got this book at no charge via my monthly Amazon Music subscription. I am stopping this listen for now. May or may not try again another time…

[Bianca Duthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really exciting thriller that will hook you from page 1. I read his over 2 sittings in less than 24 hours because I just didn't want to put it down!
There are so many twists and turns happening. I tried to guess things so many times and got none of them right.
I don't usually read psychological thrillers, I prefer my reads a bit lighter, but I'm so glad I gave this a chance. The writing, the storyline, the characters, everything just completely stood out to me.
The first part of the story is told from Jacqueline's perspective, with the second part told from Anna's, the third goes back and forth between the two women. I really enjoyed getting the contrasting viewpoints, particularly in the final few chapters as tensions mounted.
This is unputdownable and will definitely encourage me to read more by this author.

[Kirsty Diggory · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I initially picked this up and seen the kindle said 6 1/2 hours left, i thought oh god this is going to be a long book. But then i stsrted reading it and quickly knew i didnt want to put it down. I wanted to read it as quicy as possible to learn the truth about everything but then also didnt want to finish it. Then it ramped up and just as i got to a major part of it, i get a text of my mum to say they were ready for a lift home. I picked them up got home and picked the kindle back up, only to find out mum had elft her phone so we had go back out 😫😫😫 as soon as i got in bed i carried on and couldnt believe what i was reading. There are still so much to learn but what a book!!! I was not expecting half of and all the secrets.
I highly reccomend if you want a quick thriller that keeps you guessing

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twist, turns and suspense

Wow, Wow, wow! The Widow's Lie is the new release by Melanie Price and what a read this was, at over 300 pages, it could be daunting for some people, but trust me when I say that when you pick this one up you won't want to put it down! I flew through this in the matter of hours as I was hooked within a few chapters.

I love a good psychological thriller and this was just that! Told from 2 POVs you can't help being drawn in and finding your judgement being drawn from side to side. With a fast paced plot, twists and turns that you don't expect and a cast of characters that add to the storyline, it's a book that will keep you enthralled and guessing as you turn the pages.

This is only my 2nd book by this author but she is becoming a firm favourite of mine!

[Suzanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars. It seems like I am an outlier here. I thought this book was just average. There were a lot of characters and the ending was very convoluted to me. Jacqueline and Charles live with their daughter Matilda in a beautiful neighborhood. The house across the street sells to a woman named Anna. When Jackie meets Anna, she is shocked to see that Anna looks exactly like Charles' first wife who died mysteriously and her body was never found. Anna has a daughter, Sofia, and Sofia and Matilda become good friends. I liked the writing and the short chapters. The chapters are broken down by POV of different characters. I really liked the book until the ending. I believe that around 70 percent, the ending began. It was good, but just too long and too much. It tied up a lot of loose ends, but it was almost a quarter of the book. I do recommend this book.

[A.A. Abbott · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a pacy and suspenseful thriller about two women with secrets. Jacqueline is intrigued by her new neighbour, a widow whose rich husband died in suspicious circumstances. For her part, Anna knows enough about Jacqueline to be very curious indeed. Soon, both women are snooping on each other and finding much to dislike. If only they realised a dark presence was lingering just out of sight.

There are some excellent scenes in the story, especially the chapters involving catty mums at the (posh) school gate. However, as a resident of Bristol, the descriptions of the city didn't ring true for me. I also felt the language used was clunky and repetitive. The characters came across as caricatures. While tense, the final showdown had an over-the-top B movie feel. It's the kind of read that leaves me feeling vaguely dissatisfied, like the comedown off a sugar rush.

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had this read in a day! I honestly just couldn't put it down. This book is told over 3 parts, in both Anastasia and Jacqueline's POV. It's full of twists and turns, with both women tangled in their own web of secrets and lies, it really keeps you on the edge of your seat trying to work out who you can trust. However, i will admit that from the offset, I did not like Jacqueline at all. Honestly she was just awful and some of her secrets were slightly obvious to guess but that didn't take away any of my enjoyment as it is one hell of ride, all the way to the very last page. I am also very satisfied with that ending. I'd definitely like to read more by this author as she definitely knows how to keep you hooked.

[kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW this book is good, I couldn't put it down and read it in a day.

The book is well written with a compelling story line and well developed characters who all jumped off the page for me, I didn't know who to trust or what to believe.
It is a gripping read that really grabbed hold of me right from the very first page and didn't let me go until the very end. I loved the dual narrative too.

There is so much atmosphere, suspense and tension in this book at times I was on the edge of whatever seat I was sitting on at the time with my heart in my mouth and the tension and twists just kept on coming which kept me guessing all the way through.

I loved it and would definitely recommend.

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Told from the points of view of two neighbours who are immediately in competition with eachother from the moment the second of them moves into the street, there is never a dull moment in this book!

Everyone seems to be hiding something and so you can't believe a word anyone says. I couldn't make up my mind who to root for!

It makes for gripping reading, and yet it's not too confusing or complicated to follow. I thoroughly enjoyed this. One of the best books I have read this year - right at the last minute too!

Thanks to the author and Love Books Tours for the eARC of this book.

[Daisy Hollands · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book I have read by this author and her writing gets better and better. There are always more questions than answers in Melanie Price books, and even when you think you have the answers, the very next page turn will make you question everything you thought to be true. Another story packed with intrigue and twists. Is anyone what they seem? Who can be trusted? Can anyone be trusted. The story is told from a dual POV and as the reader you find your loyalty swinging back and forth with every POV switch. Gripping and intense, I could not put it down. Loved it.

[Gemma Best · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this thriller and couldn’t put it down. It’s told from two different perspectives - Jacqueline and Anna’s - and it’s really difficult to know who to trust and who to root for. The novel is fast paced and the chapters are short and easy to read. It makes for a really gripping story. All the characters are interesting and flawed and it really makes you ask the question ‘how far would you go to keep your secrets?’

[Mystic KT · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting book to read and it was split into 3 sections. We had a section for both of our Female MC and then the third part the two stories converge and we get the explosive section where everything come out. This explosive end does not allow for all individuals to survive and this gives it such high stakes. I enjoyed the writing style and how this was written and will be looking to see what else the author puts out.