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The Quiet Wife
The BRAND NEW, chilling psychological thriller from bestseller Diane Saxon perfect for fans of Freida McFadden
'It's the epitome of that great saying, "Just one more chapter!" Then you discover you've read another five. Highly recommend as a great psychological thriller.' Joy Ellis
I want to be ordinary. To fade into the shadows where no one notices me and live a quiet life. A normal life.
But I am not ordinary. Not anymore.
I’ve been keeping a secret. From my colleagues, my friends and most importantly, my husband - who knows nothing of my past life.
Twenty years ago, at college, a boy became obsessed with me. Craig Lane believed he could make me love him back if he just tried harder. When I rejected him, he did something so horrifying, it’s the stuff of nightmares. All my nightmares.
Now I’ve been informed by Victim Support Services, that boy - now a man - has been released from prison. The news terrifies me.
Am I safe? Or does Craig still carry the same obsession he did when we were seventeen? I don’t know. I’ve ignored every letter he’s ever sent me.
Now strange things have started to flowers have been left on my doorstep, my cat keeps going missing. Someone is watching me. Knows where I live. I am sure.
Worse, something even more sinister could be stalking me from the shadows. Because I have another secret...
My past is coming to get me. One way or another.
'An unrelenting thriller that twisted my stomach in knots from cover to cover' Daniel G. Miller, author of The Orphanage by the Lake
'It's the epitome of that great saying, "Just one more chapter!" Then you discover you've read another five. Highly recommend as a great psychological thriller.' Joy Ellis
I want to be ordinary. To fade into the shadows where no one notices me and live a quiet life. A normal life.
But I am not ordinary. Not anymore.
I’ve been keeping a secret. From my colleagues, my friends and most importantly, my husband - who knows nothing of my past life.
Twenty years ago, at college, a boy became obsessed with me. Craig Lane believed he could make me love him back if he just tried harder. When I rejected him, he did something so horrifying, it’s the stuff of nightmares. All my nightmares.
Now I’ve been informed by Victim Support Services, that boy - now a man - has been released from prison. The news terrifies me.
Am I safe? Or does Craig still carry the same obsession he did when we were seventeen? I don’t know. I’ve ignored every letter he’s ever sent me.
Now strange things have started to flowers have been left on my doorstep, my cat keeps going missing. Someone is watching me. Knows where I live. I am sure.
Worse, something even more sinister could be stalking me from the shadows. Because I have another secret...
My past is coming to get me. One way or another.
'An unrelenting thriller that twisted my stomach in knots from cover to cover' Daniel G. Miller, author of The Orphanage by the Lake
Audible Audio
Published February 20, 2025
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About the author
Diane Saxon
31 books374 followersDiane Saxon lives in the Shropshire countryside with her tall, dark, handsome husband. She has two gorgeous daughters, a Dalmatian, two cats, numerous rare breed chickens, and grandfurbabies too.
After working for years in a demanding job, Diane gave it up when her husband said, “Follow that dream.” She subsequently had 12 romances published for the U.S. market then turned to the dark side with her psychological thrillers published through Boldwood Books.
Nominated for the CWA Dagger in the Library Award 2024 and an International No 1 Amazon Bestseller, Diane never regrets living her second life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
August 24, 2025
TW: psychological, physical and sexual abuse.
This one was slightly darker than your usual psychological thriller, but it worked. It made me very impressed by the main character and how she came through her terrible ordeal. The writing flowed easily and there was enough suspense to keep you invested.
This one was slightly darker than your usual psychological thriller, but it worked. It made me very impressed by the main character and how she came through her terrible ordeal. The writing flowed easily and there was enough suspense to keep you invested.
May 28, 2025
Major lifetime movie vibes. I didn’t really connect with the story or the characters. My main theory was incorrect which threw me for a loop but other than that I feel pretty indifferent on this one.
I felt like there was 3 different books going on at once and some of the storylines didn’t really mesh well together. I was annoyed by the end.
I felt like there was 3 different books going on at once and some of the storylines didn’t really mesh well together. I was annoyed by the end.
February 12, 2025
Soriah is living a quiet life hiding a dark past until the man who once obsessed over her is released from prison. She begins to receive disturbing messages and fears for her safety as strange occurrences start happening around her. Her past is catching up to her, and she must confront the secrets she has been keeping.
One of the reasons I am enamored with this author is her ability to craft a story filled with suspense and tension that builds up to a jaw-dropping twist. I am a sucker for books that keep me on the edge of my seat, unable to predict the outcome until the very last page. The shock factor of the reveal leaves me reeling, unable to shake the story from my mind long after I have finished reading.
The storyline unfolds like a nightmare, delving into sensitive topics that may trigger some readers. There were moments where I found myself clenching my teeth, but it was necessary to push through to fully grasp the depth of the narrative. The writing is masterful, making it nearly impossible to set the book down once you have started. The unexpected twist takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving you breathless and haunted by the story long after you have turned the final page.
If you crave a fast-paced, unpredictable, and suspenseful read that will keep you guessing until the very end, then this book is must-read. I assure you, that the conclusion will blindside you, so pay close attention to the subtle hints scattered throughout the story. Get ready for a thrilling ride that will leave you speechless and craving more.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One of the reasons I am enamored with this author is her ability to craft a story filled with suspense and tension that builds up to a jaw-dropping twist. I am a sucker for books that keep me on the edge of my seat, unable to predict the outcome until the very last page. The shock factor of the reveal leaves me reeling, unable to shake the story from my mind long after I have finished reading.
The storyline unfolds like a nightmare, delving into sensitive topics that may trigger some readers. There were moments where I found myself clenching my teeth, but it was necessary to push through to fully grasp the depth of the narrative. The writing is masterful, making it nearly impossible to set the book down once you have started. The unexpected twist takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving you breathless and haunted by the story long after you have turned the final page.
If you crave a fast-paced, unpredictable, and suspenseful read that will keep you guessing until the very end, then this book is must-read. I assure you, that the conclusion will blindside you, so pay close attention to the subtle hints scattered throughout the story. Get ready for a thrilling ride that will leave you speechless and craving more.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 21, 2025
I really enjoyed other books by Diane Saxon and was looking forward to another one by her. as she's one of my favorite thriller authors. I found it was good the way that she gave backstory to Soriah's life, and I'm glad that she has sisters. Carly is her older sister who is at university and Leonie is 12.
The further education college atmosphere is realistic, and the incident in the refectory was shocking. I felt I was nervous every time Craig was around, and Diane Saxon does a really good job of creating tension and keeping it there.
I feel that Diane Saxon goes really deep into the characters' feelings, which makes The Quiet Wife really immersive, just like her other books that I have reviewed.
The novel makes me feel uneasy, curious and also protective of Soriah, and I really want to avoid Craig whenever I can but he keeps appearing. I really didn't like Gilly at times, and then she seemed ok. I felt she was a confusing friend. But also realistic, because I have known people like that as well,
The dual timeline between present day (2025) and 21 years earlier in 2004 is interesting, because it really focuses the chapters on the events at the time.
Thanks to Diane Saxon and Boldwood Books for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars
The further education college atmosphere is realistic, and the incident in the refectory was shocking. I felt I was nervous every time Craig was around, and Diane Saxon does a really good job of creating tension and keeping it there.
I feel that Diane Saxon goes really deep into the characters' feelings, which makes The Quiet Wife really immersive, just like her other books that I have reviewed.
The novel makes me feel uneasy, curious and also protective of Soriah, and I really want to avoid Craig whenever I can but he keeps appearing. I really didn't like Gilly at times, and then she seemed ok. I felt she was a confusing friend. But also realistic, because I have known people like that as well,
The dual timeline between present day (2025) and 21 years earlier in 2004 is interesting, because it really focuses the chapters on the events at the time.
Thanks to Diane Saxon and Boldwood Books for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars
February 15, 2025
Suspenseful story about surviving and taking back your life. Soriah is a marketing professional and wife. She survived a terrible ordeal as a teenager when she was kidnapped and tortured by a fellow student who was obsessed with her. Soriah received notice that after 20 years her attacker is being released from prison and around the same time she begins receiving bouquets of flowers and messages from an unknown source. Has this man come back to torment her after all this time?
Told in then and now sections, the story explores how Soriah was lured into a bad situation by her best friend and she finds she cannot rely on anyone except her parents who have always tried to protect her. The story comes to a head when her husband Marcus is out of town and Soriah begins to feel watched, things are missing from her home and she feels cornered once again by someone or something evil. I liked Soriah and her loving parents who wanted to protect her. I did find the story was slow at times and spent a lot of time on mundane things like Soriah getting up, putting on socks, getting dressed etc. I did guess the twists but that never affects how much I enjoy a story. I liked the story but didn't find it to have that edge of your seat feeling that I like in a thriller. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a copy of this ARC in exchange for a review.
Told in then and now sections, the story explores how Soriah was lured into a bad situation by her best friend and she finds she cannot rely on anyone except her parents who have always tried to protect her. The story comes to a head when her husband Marcus is out of town and Soriah begins to feel watched, things are missing from her home and she feels cornered once again by someone or something evil. I liked Soriah and her loving parents who wanted to protect her. I did find the story was slow at times and spent a lot of time on mundane things like Soriah getting up, putting on socks, getting dressed etc. I did guess the twists but that never affects how much I enjoy a story. I liked the story but didn't find it to have that edge of your seat feeling that I like in a thriller. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a copy of this ARC in exchange for a review.
February 18, 2025
★★★★★ 4.5 stars (rounded up)
Trigger warning: rape, sexual assault and stalking
A secret past that comes back to haunt her...
I wasn't sure what to expect from the rather demure title but it certainly wasn't this! What a rollercoaster of a ride this dark and disturbing tale of obsession is.
Soriah is a quiet wife living the quiet life with her husband Marcus. But her life is thrown into turmoil when she receives a letter from Victim Support Services. And suddenly, her past come rushing back to haunt her all over again. The nightmares, the claustrophobia, the sleeplessness, the fear, the panic attacks...all relative to a deep dark secret from her past. Something she has barely shared with Marcus, not that he'd show any interest anyway. But she's never really completely trusted another man again - not after what happened to her over twenty years ago.
When she was seventeen, Soriah survived a terrible ordeal after becoming the obsession of another student. Despite her protests that she wasn't interested, he persisted - mainly at the insistence of her best friend Gilly. And then one night, she was kidnapped and held for days while starved and raped repeatedly...all while he was professing his undying love for her. Soriah vowed she would never trust another man again.
Now two decades later, Craig is being released and Soriah is beside herself with panic. Suddenly flowers are being left on her doorstep and text messages from an unknown number. It could only be Craig. But how does he know where she lives? How does he know her number? And surely it's a breach of his licence that he even comes near her, let alone contact her? Soriah, who has never let anyone else remotely close to her in all these years, has no idea who to turn to. Who can she trust? Her family? But they have their own worries, so she doesn't want to trouble them.
Then when Marcus goes away for a work event, she begins to get the sense she is being watched. Items disappearing from her house. Her key safe unlocked. Luna being locked in the one place Soriah would never open. Is she losing her mind? Or is someone out there watching her again?
The story unfolds in the past and present between Soriah, Craig and an unknown narrator calling themselves "the Fox". It was interesting reading Craig's narrative, as entitled and arrogant as it were. And none of the characters were at all endearing. In fact, I found the story rather depressing for the first several chapters as all Soriah seemed to do was lament about her past or about Marcus and how little he seemed to care for her. Craig's behaviour was delusional and Gilly was a complete b****. Again, none of them were at all endearing. Except maybe for Soriah's parents but they didn't play a huge part. Then when things started to pick up, those chapters were indeed harrowing reading, both chilling and disturbing. It's these that will be triggering for some, hence my warning above.
Diane Saxon has the ability to pen a tense yet gripping tale that is as real as it is shocking. She keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout despite predictability (though that could just be me knowing what to look out for and suspect) and leave you wanting more. I devoured this book in a day, such was its fast pace.
Another entertaining thriller taking the reader on a rollercoaster of emotions and leaving you breathless by its end.
I would like to thank #DianeSaxon, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheQuietWife in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Trigger warning: rape, sexual assault and stalking
A secret past that comes back to haunt her...
I wasn't sure what to expect from the rather demure title but it certainly wasn't this! What a rollercoaster of a ride this dark and disturbing tale of obsession is.
Soriah is a quiet wife living the quiet life with her husband Marcus. But her life is thrown into turmoil when she receives a letter from Victim Support Services. And suddenly, her past come rushing back to haunt her all over again. The nightmares, the claustrophobia, the sleeplessness, the fear, the panic attacks...all relative to a deep dark secret from her past. Something she has barely shared with Marcus, not that he'd show any interest anyway. But she's never really completely trusted another man again - not after what happened to her over twenty years ago.
When she was seventeen, Soriah survived a terrible ordeal after becoming the obsession of another student. Despite her protests that she wasn't interested, he persisted - mainly at the insistence of her best friend Gilly. And then one night, she was kidnapped and held for days while starved and raped repeatedly...all while he was professing his undying love for her. Soriah vowed she would never trust another man again.
Now two decades later, Craig is being released and Soriah is beside herself with panic. Suddenly flowers are being left on her doorstep and text messages from an unknown number. It could only be Craig. But how does he know where she lives? How does he know her number? And surely it's a breach of his licence that he even comes near her, let alone contact her? Soriah, who has never let anyone else remotely close to her in all these years, has no idea who to turn to. Who can she trust? Her family? But they have their own worries, so she doesn't want to trouble them.
Then when Marcus goes away for a work event, she begins to get the sense she is being watched. Items disappearing from her house. Her key safe unlocked. Luna being locked in the one place Soriah would never open. Is she losing her mind? Or is someone out there watching her again?
The story unfolds in the past and present between Soriah, Craig and an unknown narrator calling themselves "the Fox". It was interesting reading Craig's narrative, as entitled and arrogant as it were. And none of the characters were at all endearing. In fact, I found the story rather depressing for the first several chapters as all Soriah seemed to do was lament about her past or about Marcus and how little he seemed to care for her. Craig's behaviour was delusional and Gilly was a complete b****. Again, none of them were at all endearing. Except maybe for Soriah's parents but they didn't play a huge part. Then when things started to pick up, those chapters were indeed harrowing reading, both chilling and disturbing. It's these that will be triggering for some, hence my warning above.
Diane Saxon has the ability to pen a tense yet gripping tale that is as real as it is shocking. She keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout despite predictability (though that could just be me knowing what to look out for and suspect) and leave you wanting more. I devoured this book in a day, such was its fast pace.
Another entertaining thriller taking the reader on a rollercoaster of emotions and leaving you breathless by its end.
I would like to thank #DianeSaxon, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #TheQuietWife in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
January 7, 2025
My secret past is coming to get me.
Pregnant Soriah is happy with her life married to her lovely husband Marcus, but she holds secrets going back and it won't be left there.
The quiet wife is a story jumping out to be told, as the author takes us back and forth for readers to find the truth.
Chilling gripping chapters that sends shivers, a well written book with plenty of mind blowing chapters.
Sets out to be just a few chapters that you find yourself wanting to read the next as it can't be left alone.
I loved it.
Pregnant Soriah is happy with her life married to her lovely husband Marcus, but she holds secrets going back and it won't be left there.
The quiet wife is a story jumping out to be told, as the author takes us back and forth for readers to find the truth.
Chilling gripping chapters that sends shivers, a well written book with plenty of mind blowing chapters.
Sets out to be just a few chapters that you find yourself wanting to read the next as it can't be left alone.
I loved it.
July 6, 2025
began slowly but a wonderful end
Spoilers *** took me awhile to understand why the book was titled the quiet wife . To put it simple it was because she did not share her past with her spouse.
The spouse thought wrong to feel this way got what he deserved. He cheated on her with her best friend and got her pregnant.
The best friends to Soriah were not friends at all. I don’t understand how people are so cruel and full of jealousy.
Overall great read. Began slowly but once the action began it was non stop.
Spoilers *** took me awhile to understand why the book was titled the quiet wife . To put it simple it was because she did not share her past with her spouse.
The spouse thought wrong to feel this way got what he deserved. He cheated on her with her best friend and got her pregnant.
The best friends to Soriah were not friends at all. I don’t understand how people are so cruel and full of jealousy.
Overall great read. Began slowly but once the action began it was non stop.
January 4, 2025
I haven’t read a decent thriller in a while, but this one was pretty good. Although predictable (for the most part), it’s a page turner. I would read more by this author.
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January 22, 2025The Quiet Wife' - Publication date 20th February, 2025.
Never one to pass on a good mystery, the synopsis for this latest novel by Diane Saxon immediately jumped out at me. Narrated mostly by the main protagonist, Soriah, the plot moves quickly almost from the beginning. Having suffered through a terrible ordeal when she was younger, Soriah has pushed to overcome her past and is now a married woman, trying to start a family. However, her carefully curated world has started crumbling around her, bringing all of anxieties to the forefront once again. She must now confront her demons, both past and present, to secure her future.
Overall, what I enjoyed most was the pacing of the book. The storyline moved and flowed in a way that made sense and allowed me to easily follow along. There were some flashbacks utilised to give a better sense of how Soriah's past shaped her, and I thought they were well fleshed out. This technique isn't always successful but Saxon used it in a way that didn't become too overwhelming.
The biggest letdown for me was that I easily solved the 'whodunit!' I hate when this happens as I'm always hoping to be shocked and awed in a mystery novel. However, through a simple process of elimination, I correctly guessed the evildoer's identity quite early on.
All in all, I rate 'The Quiet Wife' 3 stars because while I didn't quite love it, it was a quick and simple read. Please note that there are some very heavy topics that will not make this an easy read - trigger warnings include stalking, abduction, rape, abortion and adoption. If these are not immediately off-putting to you in fiction, this book will provide some joy to you.
*A great many thanks to Boldwood Books, Diane Saxon, and NetGalley for this ARC. It is important to note that I was not committed to providing a positive review; all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
Never one to pass on a good mystery, the synopsis for this latest novel by Diane Saxon immediately jumped out at me. Narrated mostly by the main protagonist, Soriah, the plot moves quickly almost from the beginning. Having suffered through a terrible ordeal when she was younger, Soriah has pushed to overcome her past and is now a married woman, trying to start a family. However, her carefully curated world has started crumbling around her, bringing all of anxieties to the forefront once again. She must now confront her demons, both past and present, to secure her future.
Overall, what I enjoyed most was the pacing of the book. The storyline moved and flowed in a way that made sense and allowed me to easily follow along. There were some flashbacks utilised to give a better sense of how Soriah's past shaped her, and I thought they were well fleshed out. This technique isn't always successful but Saxon used it in a way that didn't become too overwhelming.
The biggest letdown for me was that I easily solved the 'whodunit!' I hate when this happens as I'm always hoping to be shocked and awed in a mystery novel. However, through a simple process of elimination, I correctly guessed the evildoer's identity quite early on.
All in all, I rate 'The Quiet Wife' 3 stars because while I didn't quite love it, it was a quick and simple read. Please note that there are some very heavy topics that will not make this an easy read - trigger warnings include stalking, abduction, rape, abortion and adoption. If these are not immediately off-putting to you in fiction, this book will provide some joy to you.
*A great many thanks to Boldwood Books, Diane Saxon, and NetGalley for this ARC. It is important to note that I was not committed to providing a positive review; all opinions are undoubtedly my own.*
February 20, 2025
The Quiet Wife by Diane Saxon is a roller coaster ride of secrets and obsession. This novel does have a trigger warning of sexual assault and kidnapping so be aware.
Soriah was seventeen when she survived a terrifying assault by a fellow student who had become obsessed with her. Now twenty years later Soriah has received a letter from Victim Support Services that Craig, her attacker, is being released. Soriah doesn't know what to do. Her husband Marcus has no idea what happened to her in the past and all of the panic, nightmares and fear is suffocating her. Then flowers are being left for her on her doorstep, text messages from an unknown number keep showing up. Has Craig found her? And who can she trust to help her make it out of this alive?
This novel was absolutely gripping, dark and disturbing. Saxon keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout this wild ride of a thriller. While the novel does deal with sensitive subjects Saxon writes about them very delicately and without the graphic details. A great read that I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley, Diane Saxon, and Boldwood Books for this ARC. Expected publication date is February 20th 2025.
Soriah was seventeen when she survived a terrifying assault by a fellow student who had become obsessed with her. Now twenty years later Soriah has received a letter from Victim Support Services that Craig, her attacker, is being released. Soriah doesn't know what to do. Her husband Marcus has no idea what happened to her in the past and all of the panic, nightmares and fear is suffocating her. Then flowers are being left for her on her doorstep, text messages from an unknown number keep showing up. Has Craig found her? And who can she trust to help her make it out of this alive?
This novel was absolutely gripping, dark and disturbing. Saxon keeps readers on the edge of their seats throughout this wild ride of a thriller. While the novel does deal with sensitive subjects Saxon writes about them very delicately and without the graphic details. A great read that I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley, Diane Saxon, and Boldwood Books for this ARC. Expected publication date is February 20th 2025.
February 17, 2025
When I tell you that I did not see the twist in this book coming, I am not joking. I totally predicted something completely different and I was so shocked on two separate instances in this story.
Trigger warning for SA, and kidnapping.
This was one of the best thrillers I’ve read in a long time.
Trigger warning for SA, and kidnapping.
This was one of the best thrillers I’ve read in a long time.
February 22, 2025
3.5 stars
This is a quick read. The style of writing is engaging and keeps you reading. I did find the twists were predictable but that in and of itself doesn’t spoil a book for me.
Something about this fell flat. I think there was something missing to explain why some of the things occurred. Without that obvious why it made some of the incidents hard to connect with.
I also never understood why the main character kept her past from her husband.
There is a lot of trauma in this novel. If you are a sensitive reader you should definitely check the trigger warnings before grabbing this.
Overall, if you like quick read thrillers you will find this one interesting.
This is a quick read. The style of writing is engaging and keeps you reading. I did find the twists were predictable but that in and of itself doesn’t spoil a book for me.
Something about this fell flat. I think there was something missing to explain why some of the things occurred. Without that obvious why it made some of the incidents hard to connect with.
I also never understood why the main character kept her past from her husband.
There is a lot of trauma in this novel. If you are a sensitive reader you should definitely check the trigger warnings before grabbing this.
Overall, if you like quick read thrillers you will find this one interesting.
March 4, 2025
This is a very tense story that draws you in from the beginning. It's very fast paced and I was invested in the characters. The ending was unexpected. If you enjoy thrillers, I would recommend this! Special Thank You to Diane Saxon, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2025
Wow. What a whirlwind of emotions as I finished this book. Part of me cannot believe how much trauma the main character, Soriah, endured in this book. The other part of me wonders how the heck the author thought up this story. Twister, dark, but very cleverly written.
I loved the dual time line in telling this story. It was very smoothly written and helped the story progress. It was also told from multiple points of views between the dual time lines. This books definitely touches on seem very sick, dark and twisted concepts. Sexual assault, stalking, murder, domestic violence, kidnap, and multiple avenues of drama. If you are triggered by those things, this book probably isn’t for you because it goes into this way in depth.
The plot was good, the climax was good, the ending was good (but predictable). I like that Soriah finds her strength eventually and overcomes what she’s been faced with.
I can’t say much else without my giving the book away or mentioning spoilers.
Definitely worth a read and is 10/10 in the thriller/suspense category.
I loved the dual time line in telling this story. It was very smoothly written and helped the story progress. It was also told from multiple points of views between the dual time lines. This books definitely touches on seem very sick, dark and twisted concepts. Sexual assault, stalking, murder, domestic violence, kidnap, and multiple avenues of drama. If you are triggered by those things, this book probably isn’t for you because it goes into this way in depth.
The plot was good, the climax was good, the ending was good (but predictable). I like that Soriah finds her strength eventually and overcomes what she’s been faced with.
I can’t say much else without my giving the book away or mentioning spoilers.
Definitely worth a read and is 10/10 in the thriller/suspense category.
May 14, 2025
A Decent Read
Nothing shockingly special about it, but not in any way horrible either. A captivating rainy day read for those of us who enjoy the genre.
I do really wish I'd come across a "twist" someday that wasn't so obvious so very early on.
Nothing shockingly special about it, but not in any way horrible either. A captivating rainy day read for those of us who enjoy the genre.
I do really wish I'd come across a "twist" someday that wasn't so obvious so very early on.
February 23, 2025
This book was so good I couldn’t put it down. Every time I thought I knew what was going on I was wrong. Great character development & plot twist
February 23, 2025
Parts read like a cheesy teenage horror story (trust gut feelings) but decent plot twist which is obvious early on. Second book I have read by author and will read more
June 9, 2025
4.8*
This book was so much more than I expected it to be.
This book was so much more than I expected it to be.
December 22, 2025
SO good!!! I read it in a day cause I couldn’t get enough. Plot twist was CRAY CRAY
February 17, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | The Quiet Wife is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps you at the edge of your seat. This was my first novel by Diane Saxon and upon finishing, I immediately added her entire catalogue to my TBR list.
The story follows Soriah as she navigates through life, still impacted by a traumatic experience of a stalker from her past. The alternating timelines between past and present were easy to follow, adding more suspense to the characters as the chapters continued. Suddenly, her world is yet again turned upside down when ghosts that she thought she buried long ago, comes back to haunt her. With the amount of deception in her midst, Soriah begins to question everyone & everything, including her own sanity.
Thank you Boldwood Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The story follows Soriah as she navigates through life, still impacted by a traumatic experience of a stalker from her past. The alternating timelines between past and present were easy to follow, adding more suspense to the characters as the chapters continued. Suddenly, her world is yet again turned upside down when ghosts that she thought she buried long ago, comes back to haunt her. With the amount of deception in her midst, Soriah begins to question everyone & everything, including her own sanity.
Thank you Boldwood Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 20, 2025
What does one do when your past comes back to haunt you? This book took me on a roller coaster ride with so many twists and turns that I did not want to get off. Soriah was faced with hard experiences that affected her life tremendously however, she was an overcomer. The book was very suspenseful and kept me on the edge of my seat however, I did figure out a few things in the book before it was revealed. Overall, I truly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to fellow readers. This book was a digital ARC provided by NetGalley.
January 6, 2025
When you pick up a Diane Saxon novel you know you're in for a treat. She doesn't shy away from difficult subjects and I feel writes empathetically about her characters. This book centres of Soriah, both present day and flashbacks to 20 years previously while she was in college.
In college we meet her friend Gilly and Craig, a wannabee boyfriend, who collude together to create a relationship between Soriah and Craig. This has a disastrous outcome and effects the rest of Soriah's life.
Added to this we have a secret POV, someone who is watching Soriahs every move.
This novel is tense, most of the characters are likeable, but of course it wouldn't be a thriller if there weren't some nasty characters too. And some of those are definitely who you wouldn't expect.
To date this is my favourite Diane Saxon novel. I couldn't put it down
In college we meet her friend Gilly and Craig, a wannabee boyfriend, who collude together to create a relationship between Soriah and Craig. This has a disastrous outcome and effects the rest of Soriah's life.
Added to this we have a secret POV, someone who is watching Soriahs every move.
This novel is tense, most of the characters are likeable, but of course it wouldn't be a thriller if there weren't some nasty characters too. And some of those are definitely who you wouldn't expect.
To date this is my favourite Diane Saxon novel. I couldn't put it down
March 9, 2025
This is a twisty domestic psychological thriller. The timeline switches between the past and present with the POV of different characters. It definitely takes obsessive to a whole new level. The author hits on some difficult subjects. A couple of times I felt the story moved just a bit slow. The twists were good. Throughout the book I felt awful for the MC and disgusted with a few of the others. The author really brought out these emotions and I’ll definitely read another book by her.
Thank you to the author @DianeSaxon as well as to @BoldwoodBooks and @NetGalley for a free e-ARC. The opinions are mine alone and not biased in any way.
Thank you to the author @DianeSaxon as well as to @BoldwoodBooks and @NetGalley for a free e-ARC. The opinions are mine alone and not biased in any way.
January 23, 2025
The Quiet Wife is extremely predictable. I like trying to figure out how twists are going to turn out in books, but I did not have to try very hard with this one. I also did not find any character to be likeable. It is a well written book, just not one I would read again.
Thanks to NetGalley, Diane Saxon, and Boldwood Books for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy of The Quiet Wife in the return of an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley, Diane Saxon, and Boldwood Books for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy of The Quiet Wife in the return of an honest review.
August 25, 2025
In Diane Saxon's psychological thriller The Quiet Wife, the author masterfully unwraps the seemingly perfect life of protagonist Soriah to expose a foundation built on a buried secret. This dark and twisted narrative, told through a dual timeline and multiple perspectives, explores themes of enduring trauma, obsession, and betrayal, keeping readers on edge until the final, shocking revelations. While the rapid pace and character decisions drew mixed reactions from some, most praise Saxon's ability to create a gripping and emotionally charged story that is hard to put down.
A quiet life, shattered
The story follows Soriah, a woman who has painstakingly built a serene, "quiet life" for herself over two decades in an attempt to escape a horrifying past. She has a successful athletic career and a seemingly happy marriage to her husband, Marcus. Her carefully constructed reality begins to crumble, however, when she receives a letter informing her that Craig Lane, the college classmate who obsessed over and traumatized her, is being released from prison. The news triggers Soriah's long-suppressed fear and trauma, leading to paranoia and a desperate need to protect her fragile peace. The tension escalates as mysterious packages, flowers, and threatening messages suggest Craig has found her, threatening to expose the secrets she has so desperately kept hidden, even from Marcus.
A complex plot full of deception and twists
Saxon weaves a complex plot by alternating between Soriah's present-day unraveling and flashbacks to her traumatic college experience. The flashbacks reveal the extent of Craig's dangerous obsession and the horrifying events that led to Soriah's kidnapping and assault. The dual timeline effectively builds suspense, creating a sense of dread as the past and present converge. The narrative is further complicated by the inclusion of multiple perspectives, including that of the "fox," a mysterious character whose motivations remain unclear for much of the novel. The author is praised for her ability to maintain a brisk pace and keep readers guessing with numerous twists, including a final, unexpected turn that some readers found shocking.
Character development and themes
Soriah is a complex and sometimes frustrating protagonist. Her emotional blindness and initial naivety, a result of her deep-seated trauma, can be difficult for readers to witness. However, Saxon's portrayal of Soriah's journey from a terrified victim to a resilient survivor who refuses to be controlled by her past is a key element of the story's emotional core. The book's central theme of hidden trauma is explored through Soriah's inability to confide in her husband, leading to marital breakdown and further emotional turmoil. The theme of betrayal is also prominent, as Soriah is forced to confront the deceptions of those she thought were her closest friends and family.
A wild ride with mixed critical reception
The Quiet Wife is a polarizing read for some. Critics and readers often praise the book's intense atmosphere, suspenseful pacing, and emotional depth. However, some found the plot to be somewhat melodramatic, with a rapid succession of traumatic events and character decisions that seemed unrealistic or illogical. The ultimate twist, while praised for its shock value, was also seen by some as far-fetched. Despite these critiques, fans of dark, fast-paced psychological thrillers that prioritize drama and shocking moments over strict plausibility will find this a captivating and unputdownable read.
Final verdict: a gripping, if uneven, thriller
Ultimately, The Quiet Wife is a wild ride through the devastating consequences of secrets and trauma. While not without its flaws in pacing and character decisions, Diane Saxon crafts a story that is emotionally compelling and full of genuine suspense. It is a book for readers who enjoy a tense, character-driven narrative with a dark emotional core and aren't afraid of a few over-the-top twists. Saxon's storytelling is undeniably powerful, and the exploration of Soriah's resilience in the face of unimaginable betrayal makes for a memorable and haunting psychological thriller.
A quiet life, shattered
The story follows Soriah, a woman who has painstakingly built a serene, "quiet life" for herself over two decades in an attempt to escape a horrifying past. She has a successful athletic career and a seemingly happy marriage to her husband, Marcus. Her carefully constructed reality begins to crumble, however, when she receives a letter informing her that Craig Lane, the college classmate who obsessed over and traumatized her, is being released from prison. The news triggers Soriah's long-suppressed fear and trauma, leading to paranoia and a desperate need to protect her fragile peace. The tension escalates as mysterious packages, flowers, and threatening messages suggest Craig has found her, threatening to expose the secrets she has so desperately kept hidden, even from Marcus.
A complex plot full of deception and twists
Saxon weaves a complex plot by alternating between Soriah's present-day unraveling and flashbacks to her traumatic college experience. The flashbacks reveal the extent of Craig's dangerous obsession and the horrifying events that led to Soriah's kidnapping and assault. The dual timeline effectively builds suspense, creating a sense of dread as the past and present converge. The narrative is further complicated by the inclusion of multiple perspectives, including that of the "fox," a mysterious character whose motivations remain unclear for much of the novel. The author is praised for her ability to maintain a brisk pace and keep readers guessing with numerous twists, including a final, unexpected turn that some readers found shocking.
Character development and themes
Soriah is a complex and sometimes frustrating protagonist. Her emotional blindness and initial naivety, a result of her deep-seated trauma, can be difficult for readers to witness. However, Saxon's portrayal of Soriah's journey from a terrified victim to a resilient survivor who refuses to be controlled by her past is a key element of the story's emotional core. The book's central theme of hidden trauma is explored through Soriah's inability to confide in her husband, leading to marital breakdown and further emotional turmoil. The theme of betrayal is also prominent, as Soriah is forced to confront the deceptions of those she thought were her closest friends and family.
A wild ride with mixed critical reception
The Quiet Wife is a polarizing read for some. Critics and readers often praise the book's intense atmosphere, suspenseful pacing, and emotional depth. However, some found the plot to be somewhat melodramatic, with a rapid succession of traumatic events and character decisions that seemed unrealistic or illogical. The ultimate twist, while praised for its shock value, was also seen by some as far-fetched. Despite these critiques, fans of dark, fast-paced psychological thrillers that prioritize drama and shocking moments over strict plausibility will find this a captivating and unputdownable read.
Final verdict: a gripping, if uneven, thriller
Ultimately, The Quiet Wife is a wild ride through the devastating consequences of secrets and trauma. While not without its flaws in pacing and character decisions, Diane Saxon crafts a story that is emotionally compelling and full of genuine suspense. It is a book for readers who enjoy a tense, character-driven narrative with a dark emotional core and aren't afraid of a few over-the-top twists. Saxon's storytelling is undeniably powerful, and the exploration of Soriah's resilience in the face of unimaginable betrayal makes for a memorable and haunting psychological thriller.
January 3, 2025
diane saxon’s the quiet wife follows soriah, a woman grappling with life twenty years after being kidnapped and raped. when her abuser is released from prison, a series of unsettling events begin to unfold: her cat repeatedly goes missing, doors are mysteriously found unlocked, and flowers are left on her doorstep. yet, her troubles extend beyond him, for she harbors a secret and fears her past is finally coming to get her.
the plot was intriguing, and the writing was adequate. while i don’t often read psychological thrillers, i found the twists in this novel to be predictable. at every turn, i had a highlighted annotation in previous chapters with my accurate predictions. i sincerely clocked every single one. and yet, this predictability isn’t what ruined my reading experience. there is a specific moment that completely overshadowed the entire book for me, making it impossible to connect with the rest of the story.
fair warning there are spoilers ahead, as i simply cannot review this book without discussing this in detail.
on page 132, the author pauses the narrative to deliver an anti-abortion rant:
“what i refused to go along with was the actual abortion. once that doctor told me that at twenty-two weeks, that baby was fully developed in my womb with eyes that were just about opening and ears that could hear, there was no way i could in all good conscience kill a living being. how could i abort something real? a human. a baby who never deserved to be murdered just because neither of its parents wanted it. i certainly don’t want it. the mere thought of holding a baby from that evil creature turns my stomach. but so does murder.”
yeah…no. this was not good.
it’s one thing for soriah to practice her right to choose and decide she does not want an abortion. there were so many routes that could have been taken without needing to venture into overt political commentary — the author could have simply chosen to depict soriah as being too far along in her pregnancy to legally obtain an abortion. instead, this passage felt like a deliberate insertion of anti-abortion rhetoric, which is both unnecessary and harmful in the context of the story.
let’s look at the facts. medically speaking, a fetus becomes viable at 24 to 28 weeks, not at 22 weeks. therefore, factually, claiming the baby was “fully developed […] with eyes that were just about opening and ears that could hear” is incorrect. roe v. wade also states a person may choose to have an abortion until a fetus becomes viable at 24-48 weeks. um, hello? even if we choose to set all of this aside, equating abortion with murder is an inflammatory and deeply political statement, and i found it so utterly disappointing the author would use this moment to spew anti-abortion rhetoric and preach reversive politics, just for the hell of it.
in a climate where abortion rights are under constant threat, this passage is egregious. it risks alienating readers all while perpetuating harmful narratives about women’s reproductive rights. the author’s decision to include this judgmental passage is extremely irresponsible — especially if we consider the impact it could have on readers who may have had to face this decision themselves.
for me, this ruined the novel and made it completely irredeemable. i finished it for the sake of providing feedback, but i cannot in good conscience recommend this book to any audience. even beyond its problematic messaging, the quiet wife fails to bring anything special to the psychological thriller genre that would justify supporting it.
thank you to netgalley and boldwood books for providing an advanced reading copy. all opinions expressed are my own.
the plot was intriguing, and the writing was adequate. while i don’t often read psychological thrillers, i found the twists in this novel to be predictable. at every turn, i had a highlighted annotation in previous chapters with my accurate predictions. i sincerely clocked every single one. and yet, this predictability isn’t what ruined my reading experience. there is a specific moment that completely overshadowed the entire book for me, making it impossible to connect with the rest of the story.
fair warning there are spoilers ahead, as i simply cannot review this book without discussing this in detail.
on page 132, the author pauses the narrative to deliver an anti-abortion rant:
“what i refused to go along with was the actual abortion. once that doctor told me that at twenty-two weeks, that baby was fully developed in my womb with eyes that were just about opening and ears that could hear, there was no way i could in all good conscience kill a living being. how could i abort something real? a human. a baby who never deserved to be murdered just because neither of its parents wanted it. i certainly don’t want it. the mere thought of holding a baby from that evil creature turns my stomach. but so does murder.”
yeah…no. this was not good.
it’s one thing for soriah to practice her right to choose and decide she does not want an abortion. there were so many routes that could have been taken without needing to venture into overt political commentary — the author could have simply chosen to depict soriah as being too far along in her pregnancy to legally obtain an abortion. instead, this passage felt like a deliberate insertion of anti-abortion rhetoric, which is both unnecessary and harmful in the context of the story.
let’s look at the facts. medically speaking, a fetus becomes viable at 24 to 28 weeks, not at 22 weeks. therefore, factually, claiming the baby was “fully developed […] with eyes that were just about opening and ears that could hear” is incorrect. roe v. wade also states a person may choose to have an abortion until a fetus becomes viable at 24-48 weeks. um, hello? even if we choose to set all of this aside, equating abortion with murder is an inflammatory and deeply political statement, and i found it so utterly disappointing the author would use this moment to spew anti-abortion rhetoric and preach reversive politics, just for the hell of it.
in a climate where abortion rights are under constant threat, this passage is egregious. it risks alienating readers all while perpetuating harmful narratives about women’s reproductive rights. the author’s decision to include this judgmental passage is extremely irresponsible — especially if we consider the impact it could have on readers who may have had to face this decision themselves.
for me, this ruined the novel and made it completely irredeemable. i finished it for the sake of providing feedback, but i cannot in good conscience recommend this book to any audience. even beyond its problematic messaging, the quiet wife fails to bring anything special to the psychological thriller genre that would justify supporting it.
thank you to netgalley and boldwood books for providing an advanced reading copy. all opinions expressed are my own.
January 9, 2025
Before I even get into my review, I feel I need to mention that there could potentially be trigger warnings for this one that are not mentioned. Those warnings include stalking, forced imprisonment, rape, and the mention of abortion.
The synopsis of this one caught my attention immediately, and after seeing the early praise for this story with people calling it "complex, dark and disturbing" and "unputdownable with a tense, fast-paced & terrifying plot", I was beyond excited to read it.
Sadly, what I got was an overly predictable story with characters who were not likable in the least (some for less obvious reasons than others) that I could (and did) easily put down and forget about for extended periods of time. This was truly disappointing because this novel had such amazing potential (take for example my favorite line of the novel in which Soriah says "it's not the dark that worries me, but the monsters that hide in its shadows"). It's obvious this author knows how to write, it was just some of the creative choices they made seemed flawed.
For example (and to give credit where it is due), there was one instance where I was caught a bit off-guard because I thought the author was going one way with the story, but instead they decided to go a completely different route. However, I felt like that reveal came much too soon because it instantly not only put me on my guard, but made me wonder how Soriah didn't see it herself. I wish the author would have held off on this plot point just a little bit longer (or maybe not included it at all as a different point in the story as to not make it a huge red flag for the reader when it happened, but that would have allowed Soriah to know the truth).
Looking past the plot to the characters, as I mentioned prior, none of the main ones were very likable. Craig and Gilly for obvious reasons, but Soriah and her husband Marcus for less obvious reasons (at least at first). Marcus immediately comes across as a user (and a shady one at that). Seriously? You have to go away for a weekend and stay at a hotel in order to attend an awards ceremony for your job, the same job that says due to budget cuts your spouse can't attend? Could he be any more obvious? Also, I'm still confused as to whether or not there was an actual awards presentation as there was no mention of him bringing one back with him when he came back, only more instances of him being an uncaring git towards his wife. And then we have Soriah, who was just ..... a doormat. For her entire life. She didn't stand up to Craig. She didn't stand up to Gilly. She should have reported the admin from her school when things first began to escalate, but she didn't. Then later on... she didn't stand up to her husband. For heavens sake, she didn't even stand up to her parents at times. I really would have hoped that after everything that had happened to her when she was eighteen, that she would have learned how to stand on her own two feet and be assertive.
Despite these things however, I do feel like there will be other readers who will enjoy this one a lot more than I did. I would give this author another chance to see if maybe it was just this particular story that didn't jive with me.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
The synopsis of this one caught my attention immediately, and after seeing the early praise for this story with people calling it "complex, dark and disturbing" and "unputdownable with a tense, fast-paced & terrifying plot", I was beyond excited to read it.
Sadly, what I got was an overly predictable story with characters who were not likable in the least (some for less obvious reasons than others) that I could (and did) easily put down and forget about for extended periods of time. This was truly disappointing because this novel had such amazing potential (take for example my favorite line of the novel in which Soriah says "it's not the dark that worries me, but the monsters that hide in its shadows"). It's obvious this author knows how to write, it was just some of the creative choices they made seemed flawed.
For example (and to give credit where it is due), there was one instance where I was caught a bit off-guard because I thought the author was going one way with the story, but instead they decided to go a completely different route. However, I felt like that reveal came much too soon because it instantly not only put me on my guard, but made me wonder how Soriah didn't see it herself. I wish the author would have held off on this plot point just a little bit longer (or maybe not included it at all as a different point in the story as to not make it a huge red flag for the reader when it happened, but that would have allowed Soriah to know the truth).
Looking past the plot to the characters, as I mentioned prior, none of the main ones were very likable. Craig and Gilly for obvious reasons, but Soriah and her husband Marcus for less obvious reasons (at least at first). Marcus immediately comes across as a user (and a shady one at that). Seriously? You have to go away for a weekend and stay at a hotel in order to attend an awards ceremony for your job, the same job that says due to budget cuts your spouse can't attend? Could he be any more obvious? Also, I'm still confused as to whether or not there was an actual awards presentation as there was no mention of him bringing one back with him when he came back, only more instances of him being an uncaring git towards his wife. And then we have Soriah, who was just ..... a doormat. For her entire life. She didn't stand up to Craig. She didn't stand up to Gilly. She should have reported the admin from her school when things first began to escalate, but she didn't. Then later on... she didn't stand up to her husband. For heavens sake, she didn't even stand up to her parents at times. I really would have hoped that after everything that had happened to her when she was eighteen, that she would have learned how to stand on her own two feet and be assertive.
Despite these things however, I do feel like there will be other readers who will enjoy this one a lot more than I did. I would give this author another chance to see if maybe it was just this particular story that didn't jive with me.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
January 3, 2025
The Quiet Wife by Diane Saxon delivers a dark and suspenseful tale about trauma, resilience, and the complexities of survival. Told through alternating timelines spanning 20 years, the story follows Soriah, a woman haunted by the events of her past. Two decades ago, she endured a horrific ordeal at the hands of an obsessed fellow student, and now, as her assailant is released from prison, the life she’s carefully built begins to unravel.
The premise is gripping, and Saxon weaves an unsettling atmosphere that grips you from the start. The alternating timelines create an effective narrative structure, slowly revealing the depth of Soriah’s pain and the lengths she’s gone to in order to shield herself from her past. Themes of abuse, obsession, and the enduring effects of trauma are explored with unflinching honesty, making this book a challenging but thought-provoking read.
Soriah is a layered protagonist whose choices reflect the messy and non-linear nature of healing. While some of her decisions might leave readers puzzled or frustrated, they feel authentic to her experience as a trauma survivor. That said, her naivety and insistence on secrecy regarding her past sometimes felt contrived, especially as these choices repeatedly led to further danger.
The supporting cast adds complexity to the narrative, though not all relationships are equally developed. Soriah’s husband, Marcus, comes across as unsympathetic and one-dimensional, making it difficult to understand the dynamics of their marriage or why Soriah remains in the relationship. Conversely, Soriah’s mother stands out as a grounding presence, offering moments of wisdom and emotional clarity amidst the tension.
While The Quiet Wife delivers plenty of twists and turns, not all of them land as intended. The major plot twist is foreshadowed early, which may leave seasoned thriller readers underwhelmed. The suspense leading up to the reveal is palpable, but the payoff lacks the emotional punch it seems to aim for. Additionally, some threads remain unresolved by the end, leaving questions about certain characters’ motivations and the aftermath of key events.
Despite these shortcomings, the book is a fast-paced and compelling read. Saxon’s prose is engaging, and the suspense keeps the pages turning. While it doesn’t break new ground in the psychological thriller genre, The Quiet Wife is a solid choice for fans of dark, character-driven stories that explore the long shadows cast by trauma.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The premise is gripping, and Saxon weaves an unsettling atmosphere that grips you from the start. The alternating timelines create an effective narrative structure, slowly revealing the depth of Soriah’s pain and the lengths she’s gone to in order to shield herself from her past. Themes of abuse, obsession, and the enduring effects of trauma are explored with unflinching honesty, making this book a challenging but thought-provoking read.
Soriah is a layered protagonist whose choices reflect the messy and non-linear nature of healing. While some of her decisions might leave readers puzzled or frustrated, they feel authentic to her experience as a trauma survivor. That said, her naivety and insistence on secrecy regarding her past sometimes felt contrived, especially as these choices repeatedly led to further danger.
The supporting cast adds complexity to the narrative, though not all relationships are equally developed. Soriah’s husband, Marcus, comes across as unsympathetic and one-dimensional, making it difficult to understand the dynamics of their marriage or why Soriah remains in the relationship. Conversely, Soriah’s mother stands out as a grounding presence, offering moments of wisdom and emotional clarity amidst the tension.
While The Quiet Wife delivers plenty of twists and turns, not all of them land as intended. The major plot twist is foreshadowed early, which may leave seasoned thriller readers underwhelmed. The suspense leading up to the reveal is palpable, but the payoff lacks the emotional punch it seems to aim for. Additionally, some threads remain unresolved by the end, leaving questions about certain characters’ motivations and the aftermath of key events.
Despite these shortcomings, the book is a fast-paced and compelling read. Saxon’s prose is engaging, and the suspense keeps the pages turning. While it doesn’t break new ground in the psychological thriller genre, The Quiet Wife is a solid choice for fans of dark, character-driven stories that explore the long shadows cast by trauma.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2025
A tense and compelling page-turner with a complex heroine
Diane Saxon's The Quiet Wife is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the final, breathless twist. Centering on Soriah, a woman whose calm domestic life is shattered by the resurfacing of a stalker from her past, the story is both emotionally charged and relentlessly paced. While some of the plot's turns can feel a little over-the-top, this dark and disturbing tale is still a wild ride for fans of the genre.
What worked well:
Dual timelines create potent tension. Saxon expertly weaves together Soriah's past trauma as a teenager with the creeping dread of her present. This structure builds a powerful sense of suspense, forcing the reader to question who is truly trustworthy in her life and what secrets are still buried.
Soriah is a strong and sympathetic protagonist. Soriah is not a passive victim. Her terror is palpable and deeply human, but her strength shines through as she fights to protect her sanity and her family. Her character arc is compelling, and the author handles her sensitive backstory with appropriate delicacy.
The twists are truly shocking. Just when you think you have a handle on the narrative, Saxon pulls the rug out from under you. The reveals are shocking and well-earned, delivering a satisfying payoff for readers who love a good surprise.
What held it back from 5 stars:
A few unbelievable plot points. The high-stakes drama occasionally pushes the boundaries of plausibility. A rapid succession of traumatizing events piled onto Soriah in a short timeframe is sometimes overwhelming, and the decisions some characters make seem a little ill-advised just to move the plot forward.
Occasional repetitive moments. Some scenes or internal monologues rehash similar information. While this adds to the sense of a character being trapped by their past, it can feel a little repetitive at times and slow the narrative's momentum.
The final verdict:
The Quiet Wife is a highly entertaining and suspenseful thriller. Despite a few moments where believability is stretched, the narrative is a whirlwind of secrets, obsession, and escalating paranoia that will keep you turning pages late into the night. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dark, compelling, and fast-paced domestic thriller.
Diane Saxon's The Quiet Wife is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the final, breathless twist. Centering on Soriah, a woman whose calm domestic life is shattered by the resurfacing of a stalker from her past, the story is both emotionally charged and relentlessly paced. While some of the plot's turns can feel a little over-the-top, this dark and disturbing tale is still a wild ride for fans of the genre.
What worked well:
Dual timelines create potent tension. Saxon expertly weaves together Soriah's past trauma as a teenager with the creeping dread of her present. This structure builds a powerful sense of suspense, forcing the reader to question who is truly trustworthy in her life and what secrets are still buried.
Soriah is a strong and sympathetic protagonist. Soriah is not a passive victim. Her terror is palpable and deeply human, but her strength shines through as she fights to protect her sanity and her family. Her character arc is compelling, and the author handles her sensitive backstory with appropriate delicacy.
The twists are truly shocking. Just when you think you have a handle on the narrative, Saxon pulls the rug out from under you. The reveals are shocking and well-earned, delivering a satisfying payoff for readers who love a good surprise.
What held it back from 5 stars:
A few unbelievable plot points. The high-stakes drama occasionally pushes the boundaries of plausibility. A rapid succession of traumatizing events piled onto Soriah in a short timeframe is sometimes overwhelming, and the decisions some characters make seem a little ill-advised just to move the plot forward.
Occasional repetitive moments. Some scenes or internal monologues rehash similar information. While this adds to the sense of a character being trapped by their past, it can feel a little repetitive at times and slow the narrative's momentum.
The final verdict:
The Quiet Wife is a highly entertaining and suspenseful thriller. Despite a few moments where believability is stretched, the narrative is a whirlwind of secrets, obsession, and escalating paranoia that will keep you turning pages late into the night. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dark, compelling, and fast-paced domestic thriller.
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