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The Trophy Wife
Getting to know her new friend’s secrets is becoming a dangerous obsession in a twisting novel of psychological suspense by Washington Post bestselling author Minka Kent.
What are friends for?
Wallflower Cate Cabot has always been content to keep the world at arm’s length, particularly from behind the register at the upscale Floridian boutique where she’s worked for the last nine years. Her days are filled with old-moneyed locals and nouveau-riche tourists, most of them paying her no mind as she rings up their lavish hauls. Until Odessa DuVernay.
At first glance, Odessa is just another picture-perfect Palm Shores trophy wife—until she proves herself personable, humble, and unassuming. She even goes so far as to take a genuine interest in Cate, inviting her for lunch dates, matinees, and girl talk—a refreshing change of pace for the woman who never quite mastered the art of making (and keeping) friends.
But what begins as an unlikely friendship detours into the unthinkable when Odessa leaves Cate a panicked voicemail asking to meet—and then ghosts her. And worse, when Cate attempts to find her, it’s as if the enigmatic Mrs. DuVernay never existed at all. Consumed, Cate refuses to stop searching. But the truth won’t come easy. In fact, it could cost her everything.
Revised Previously published as The Trophy Wife by Sunday Tomassetti, this edition of The Trophy Wife includes editorial revisions and a new ending.
What are friends for?
Wallflower Cate Cabot has always been content to keep the world at arm’s length, particularly from behind the register at the upscale Floridian boutique where she’s worked for the last nine years. Her days are filled with old-moneyed locals and nouveau-riche tourists, most of them paying her no mind as she rings up their lavish hauls. Until Odessa DuVernay.
At first glance, Odessa is just another picture-perfect Palm Shores trophy wife—until she proves herself personable, humble, and unassuming. She even goes so far as to take a genuine interest in Cate, inviting her for lunch dates, matinees, and girl talk—a refreshing change of pace for the woman who never quite mastered the art of making (and keeping) friends.
But what begins as an unlikely friendship detours into the unthinkable when Odessa leaves Cate a panicked voicemail asking to meet—and then ghosts her. And worse, when Cate attempts to find her, it’s as if the enigmatic Mrs. DuVernay never existed at all. Consumed, Cate refuses to stop searching. But the truth won’t come easy. In fact, it could cost her everything.
Revised Previously published as The Trophy Wife by Sunday Tomassetti, this edition of The Trophy Wife includes editorial revisions and a new ending.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2020
1736 people are currently reading
13190 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
July 20, 2023
Another one from this author that keeps the audience interested for about 70% or so, then goes completely off the rails.
The men pinch the bridges of their noses an awful lot.
I did enjoy the reveal about the compact, but there are so many other directions in which she could have taken this novel. She does not.
Trite. Inexplicable obsession with another woman. One-note characters.
Another dubious mental illness and another unreliable narrator.
The men pinch the bridges of their noses an awful lot.
I did enjoy the reveal about the compact, but there are so many other directions in which she could have taken this novel. She does not.
Trite. Inexplicable obsession with another woman. One-note characters.
Another dubious mental illness and another unreliable narrator.
April 8, 2020
4 Stars
Sometimes the devil you know is the better option than the devil you don’t.
When I started reading this story, after a few chapters I told myself why I chose to read this book! I was bored and I was tempted to DNF it but I should say the writing was really compelling so I continued and guess what?! Around the middle of the book, the twists are begun revealing and I tell you that I couldn’t guess any of them and they all took me by surprise! Yeah, it was unpredictable and you know how much I love unreliable characters. So here I am, from DNF a story to rate it 4 stars! Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s a standalone novel. It was well-written and a compelling read. It started slow but then around the middle, it picked up the pace. For me, the ending was satisfying but it could have been better if I had answers for one or two questions of mine, just to be sure! All in all, I had fun reading this and hope you enjoy it as well!
Sometimes the devil you know is the better option than the devil you don’t.
When I started reading this story, after a few chapters I told myself why I chose to read this book! I was bored and I was tempted to DNF it but I should say the writing was really compelling so I continued and guess what?! Around the middle of the book, the twists are begun revealing and I tell you that I couldn’t guess any of them and they all took me by surprise! Yeah, it was unpredictable and you know how much I love unreliable characters. So here I am, from DNF a story to rate it 4 stars! Told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s a standalone novel. It was well-written and a compelling read. It started slow but then around the middle, it picked up the pace. For me, the ending was satisfying but it could have been better if I had answers for one or two questions of mine, just to be sure! All in all, I had fun reading this and hope you enjoy it as well!
October 2, 2025
Talk about being bamboozled! The Trophy Wife blind sighted me with the topsy turvey twists and reveals! Just when I thought I knew where this book was heaving, Mink Kent threw in another shocker! Seriously I did not see THAT coming at all!
Cate Cabot likes to keep to herself and doesn't get too close to people. She works at a high-end boutique store in Florida which caters to the very wealthy. But Odessa is different when she comes in to shop. She is personable, friendly, down to earth and eager to get to know Cate. They form an unlikely friendship. When Odessa fails to show up after asking Cate to meet her, Cate starts looking....
This book is full of secrets, deception, suspense, twists, and turns! As I mentioned, this book kept me on my toes with the twists and reveals. I enjoyed the different POV's which had me wondering who was reliable, who was unreliable, and what the heck was going on. While I enjoyed this book, I didn't quite love it. It had some pacing issues, and a shocking reveal which seemed to come out of left field. It's still an enjoyable fast read; I just didn't enjoy it as much as I had hoped.
Others enjoyed this book more than I did, so please read their reviews as well.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Cate Cabot likes to keep to herself and doesn't get too close to people. She works at a high-end boutique store in Florida which caters to the very wealthy. But Odessa is different when she comes in to shop. She is personable, friendly, down to earth and eager to get to know Cate. They form an unlikely friendship. When Odessa fails to show up after asking Cate to meet her, Cate starts looking....
This book is full of secrets, deception, suspense, twists, and turns! As I mentioned, this book kept me on my toes with the twists and reveals. I enjoyed the different POV's which had me wondering who was reliable, who was unreliable, and what the heck was going on. While I enjoyed this book, I didn't quite love it. It had some pacing issues, and a shocking reveal which seemed to come out of left field. It's still an enjoyable fast read; I just didn't enjoy it as much as I had hoped.
Others enjoyed this book more than I did, so please read their reviews as well.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
September 22, 2025
Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for sending me this ARC. I appreciate it!! The expected pub date is October 07, 2025. Also, just to preface, this edition of The Trophy Wife includes editorial revisions and a new ending.
I enjoy Minka Kent's books, and 'The Stillwater Girls' reignited my love for reading. Unfortunately, this one didn't quite work for me.
The first half was very engaging, with me fully invested in the plotline and characters. But in the last third, the story lost its pace, lacking the usual twists expected in a thriller. The final chapter felt disappointing and unnecessary, adding confusion. While the book had potential and wasn't outright bad, it wasn't great either. The premise is entertaining and intriguing, but the execution and the quality of the storytelling declined as it went on.
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
I enjoy Minka Kent's books, and 'The Stillwater Girls' reignited my love for reading. Unfortunately, this one didn't quite work for me.
The first half was very engaging, with me fully invested in the plotline and characters. But in the last third, the story lost its pace, lacking the usual twists expected in a thriller. The final chapter felt disappointing and unnecessary, adding confusion. While the book had potential and wasn't outright bad, it wasn't great either. The premise is entertaining and intriguing, but the execution and the quality of the storytelling declined as it went on.
As always, all thoughts are my own. 🖤✨
April 17, 2020
Audio & story 3.75 stars**
Narrator Holly fielding
Narrator Holly fielding
March 5, 2020
The Trophy Wife was a complete mind-blowing. This book kept me guessing what's going to happen next. A roller coaster ride through all of the secrets surrounding the life of Odessa DuVernay. Does anyone really know who they can trust? Is gut feel always right?
The author did a great job in character development. She weaves an intriguing storyline that poses an interesting question and dilemma. However, she leaves nothing unanswered. The suspense was pretty good and the mystery stayed intact until the very end which I thoroughly enjoyed!
March 16, 2020
Rating:
4.5 stars
Cover:
Oh how I love it.
Trigger:
It is surprising, but no triggers. I understand the trigger is different for different people but I think this is pretty clean thriller which is a rare breed.
Short review:
The author Sunday Tomassetti aka Minka Kent has done it again. Playing on strength of an unreliable narrator and alternate point of between Cate and Odessa provides very linear and enjoyable pace to the story.
My only issue is the thing which drives you toward this book - blurb, that doesn't happen until 50% of the book. I know some background story is needed but I think author hovers over too much day to day activities. This book could have been much tighter but I enjoyed it regardless.
Review in image/gif:
Recommended:
YES!
Aftermath: (possible spoilers)
I don't know much about mental illnesses hence I did what a super-intelligent person does - I googled. Don't judge me, I found some cool education stuff here. If you are like me, you are going to like this knowledge dump. You're welcome :)
4.5 stars
Cover:
Oh how I love it.
Trigger:
It is surprising, but no triggers. I understand the trigger is different for different people but I think this is pretty clean thriller which is a rare breed.
Short review:
The author Sunday Tomassetti aka Minka Kent has done it again. Playing on strength of an unreliable narrator and alternate point of between Cate and Odessa provides very linear and enjoyable pace to the story.
My only issue is the thing which drives you toward this book - blurb, that doesn't happen until 50% of the book. I know some background story is needed but I think author hovers over too much day to day activities. This book could have been much tighter but I enjoyed it regardless.
Review in image/gif:
Recommended:
YES!
Aftermath: (possible spoilers)
I don't know much about mental illnesses hence I did what a super-intelligent person does - I googled. Don't judge me, I found some cool education stuff here. If you are like me, you are going to like this knowledge dump. You're welcome :)
October 7, 2025
The Trophy Wife 3⭐️
This is a republication of a novel Minka Kent wrote under the name of Sunday Tomassetti with editorial revisions and a new ending. I have not read the original publication so I can’t speak to how they compare, but once I saw Minka Kent’s name I HAD to grab this ARC.
Book premise: told from 2 POVs, Cate works at an upscale store in Palm Shores and is intrigued by a particular customer who seems different than most snooty women who visit the shop. Cate is usually closed off and keeps everyone, including her boyfriend of 5 years, at a safe distance. Something about Odessa causes Cate to open up and let down her guard. The other POV is Zsofia, a personal assistant to abusive rich woman, who is desperate to find a way out of her current life.
The first 50% of the book felt frustrating to me. I knew the “off-ness” I felt would eventually be explained, but it went on for so long, I was itching for the revelation. Once that was cleared up, I was hoping for an entertaining wrap up, but it took a direction that ultimately made me feel disappointed. It just didn’t have that “umph” to make me excited to see the pieces come together, like something was missing in the development of certain characters.
As always, I enjoyed the overall writing style of Kent, the short chapters, and alternating POVs. I stayed engaged throughout my reading journey.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Oct 07 2025
—-——————————————
Pre-read thoughts:
Thank you Thomas and Mercer for this republication ARC. Minka Kent is one of my favorites, but I had no clue she had books under a pseudonym. So excited to read this one!
This is a republication of a novel Minka Kent wrote under the name of Sunday Tomassetti with editorial revisions and a new ending. I have not read the original publication so I can’t speak to how they compare, but once I saw Minka Kent’s name I HAD to grab this ARC.
Book premise: told from 2 POVs, Cate works at an upscale store in Palm Shores and is intrigued by a particular customer who seems different than most snooty women who visit the shop. Cate is usually closed off and keeps everyone, including her boyfriend of 5 years, at a safe distance. Something about Odessa causes Cate to open up and let down her guard. The other POV is Zsofia, a personal assistant to abusive rich woman, who is desperate to find a way out of her current life.
The first 50% of the book felt frustrating to me. I knew the “off-ness” I felt would eventually be explained, but it went on for so long, I was itching for the revelation. Once that was cleared up, I was hoping for an entertaining wrap up, but it took a direction that ultimately made me feel disappointed. It just didn’t have that “umph” to make me excited to see the pieces come together, like something was missing in the development of certain characters.
As always, I enjoyed the overall writing style of Kent, the short chapters, and alternating POVs. I stayed engaged throughout my reading journey.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Oct 07 2025
—-——————————————
Pre-read thoughts:
Thank you Thomas and Mercer for this republication ARC. Minka Kent is one of my favorites, but I had no clue she had books under a pseudonym. So excited to read this one!
March 25, 2020
What a great psychological thriller! Wallflower shop girl Cate Cabot has worked for years in a luxurious consignment store in a Florida town for the uber rich (picture Palm Beach). She has a long-term boyfriend, but isn’t in a hurry for more, has few friends, and figures she’s pretty much invisible to the trophy wives who frequent the store. Out of the blue, lovely (maybe too lovely) trophy wife Odessa DuVernay wants to befriend her. Cate hesitates at first, then is flattered and decides to try opening herself up to new people. Their friendship begins to blossom…until the tables turn, big time. This is a must read with terrific plot and character development, which I’ve come to expect from this hugely gifted author. She is also the best-selling Minka Kent who wrote one of my favorite books, The Memory Watcher - also an absolute shocking stunner of psychological suspense. Awesome read! Five stars!
March 4, 2020
**4.5 stars**
What in the world just happened?! I thought I knew what was going on in this book and then, that ending hit, and BAM! My jaw hit the floor! This was my first book by the author but will not be my last! I can’t really say too much about this book without giving it away. But, you will think you know what is happening and you will be wrong! I have to say I do feel like the ending was so sudden that I still have so many unanswered questions right now that I wish had gotten answered. The Trophy Wife was an engaging, page-turner with interesting characters and an ending you will never see coming. You should definitely pick this one up!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What in the world just happened?! I thought I knew what was going on in this book and then, that ending hit, and BAM! My jaw hit the floor! This was my first book by the author but will not be my last! I can’t really say too much about this book without giving it away. But, you will think you know what is happening and you will be wrong! I have to say I do feel like the ending was so sudden that I still have so many unanswered questions right now that I wish had gotten answered. The Trophy Wife was an engaging, page-turner with interesting characters and an ending you will never see coming. You should definitely pick this one up!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 16, 2020
March 5, 2020
GoodReads Giveaway
261 pages, Kindle edition
Mystery, suspense, DRC, fiction
3/9/20-3/16/20
The Trophy Wife motivates a usually timid Cat Cabot to become entangled in a web of deception and misunderstandings. She doesn’t live an exotic lifestyle or have many friends aside from her boyfriend Sean. Her complicated family history haunts her present life preventing her from forming meaningful relationships.
While working at an upscale Gloridian boutique, she meets Odessa DuVernay, a woman similar to her usual trophy wife clientele. Many wandering in to purchase just the right gift or trinket with cost being of no concern. When Odessa begins to take an interest in Cate she is suspicious but flattered. She can’t imagine how a woman with her resources would want to befriend her.
Eventually, Cate agrees to meet up with Odessa despite the owners policy against fraternizing with customers. Things seem to be going well and Cate actually feels a kinship and begins to over share. When Odessa suddenly rushes out on her and then ghosts her, Cate realizes that she really know much about Odessa.
Cate had been ignoring the warnings from her mother and boyfriend about trusting this woman she barely knows. Cate begins to question Odessa’s motives as well but can’t seem to extricate herself from the evolving mystery regarding Odessa. Google searches and other investigating come up empty as as if she doesn’t exist.
Meanwhile, a view into Odessa’s life is offered by Zsophia who apparently lives as unpaid “help” for the DuVernays as she is an illegal citizen from Russia. Her mother had worked for the DuVernays before she abandoned her in the care of her employer. Eventually, the DuVernays adopted her and raised her as their own until Zsophia becomes pregnant by Mr DuVernay’s brother Brian. Mrs DuVernay decides to raise Alvinia as her own forbidding Zsophia from exposing that she’s the biological mother. She presents a very different version of the DuVernay family than Cate has experienced.
Cate begins a journey of her with Sean by her side to meet her biological father. Her mother never told her much about him and refused to discuss the past. A trip to Rhode Island opens a Pandora’s box for Cate who then has to wrestle with the truths and lies she experienced as a child.
Amidst her own personal revelations, Cate receives a frantic call from Odessa to meet her at a café. When Odessa doesn’t show up Cate is baffled and upset deciding that she needs to distance herself from Odessa. Not matter how she tries Cate can’t seem to worry that Odessa is in trouble and begins to investigate.
Sometimes things are better left untouched. Once a mystery is present and lies are uncovered it makes it difficult for a resolution to occur. How well do we know the people around us? Even more so if we can’t trust our own inner circle what makes us think we can trust acquaintances. What lengths are you willing to take to uncover someone else’s lies?
Just when you think you know where this story is going it takes a turn in a different direction. Then, don’t get settled because it doesn’t end where you think it will!
GoodReads Giveaway
261 pages, Kindle edition
Mystery, suspense, DRC, fiction
3/9/20-3/16/20
The Trophy Wife motivates a usually timid Cat Cabot to become entangled in a web of deception and misunderstandings. She doesn’t live an exotic lifestyle or have many friends aside from her boyfriend Sean. Her complicated family history haunts her present life preventing her from forming meaningful relationships.
While working at an upscale Gloridian boutique, she meets Odessa DuVernay, a woman similar to her usual trophy wife clientele. Many wandering in to purchase just the right gift or trinket with cost being of no concern. When Odessa begins to take an interest in Cate she is suspicious but flattered. She can’t imagine how a woman with her resources would want to befriend her.
Eventually, Cate agrees to meet up with Odessa despite the owners policy against fraternizing with customers. Things seem to be going well and Cate actually feels a kinship and begins to over share. When Odessa suddenly rushes out on her and then ghosts her, Cate realizes that she really know much about Odessa.
Cate had been ignoring the warnings from her mother and boyfriend about trusting this woman she barely knows. Cate begins to question Odessa’s motives as well but can’t seem to extricate herself from the evolving mystery regarding Odessa. Google searches and other investigating come up empty as as if she doesn’t exist.
Meanwhile, a view into Odessa’s life is offered by Zsophia who apparently lives as unpaid “help” for the DuVernays as she is an illegal citizen from Russia. Her mother had worked for the DuVernays before she abandoned her in the care of her employer. Eventually, the DuVernays adopted her and raised her as their own until Zsophia becomes pregnant by Mr DuVernay’s brother Brian. Mrs DuVernay decides to raise Alvinia as her own forbidding Zsophia from exposing that she’s the biological mother. She presents a very different version of the DuVernay family than Cate has experienced.
Cate begins a journey of her with Sean by her side to meet her biological father. Her mother never told her much about him and refused to discuss the past. A trip to Rhode Island opens a Pandora’s box for Cate who then has to wrestle with the truths and lies she experienced as a child.
Amidst her own personal revelations, Cate receives a frantic call from Odessa to meet her at a café. When Odessa doesn’t show up Cate is baffled and upset deciding that she needs to distance herself from Odessa. Not matter how she tries Cate can’t seem to worry that Odessa is in trouble and begins to investigate.
Sometimes things are better left untouched. Once a mystery is present and lies are uncovered it makes it difficult for a resolution to occur. How well do we know the people around us? Even more so if we can’t trust our own inner circle what makes us think we can trust acquaintances. What lengths are you willing to take to uncover someone else’s lies?
Just when you think you know where this story is going it takes a turn in a different direction. Then, don’t get settled because it doesn’t end where you think it will!
October 6, 2025
3.5 ✨
This book was a fun and twisty read. It was a short and easy to read keeping me glued to the pages full of suspense and secrets and twists. The storyline was told from two different POV's, expertly crafted to make you feel like you know what is going to happen, but the twists and secrets are woven in to shock you all throughout the book. I loved how the authors continued to shock you all throughout the story instead of just one big twist at the end.
Cate Cabot has always been okay with being an introvert and keeping other people at arm's length until the day she meets Odessa Devurney. One day Odessa comes into Cate's job and she left a lasting impression on Cate simply because of how nice she was. Working at a boutique where people would come to make lavish purchases, Cate has been used to customers paying her no mind or looking down on here. Odessa however acknowledges Cate and treats her like a friend even going as far as to invite her out to lunch. Out of nowhere, Cate gets a rushed and manic voicemail from Odessa saying that she needs to meet her right away but then she never shows up. Nervous that something has happened to her friend, Cate insists on searching for her but the secrets and twists that follow will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for giving me access to this arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a fun and twisty read. It was a short and easy to read keeping me glued to the pages full of suspense and secrets and twists. The storyline was told from two different POV's, expertly crafted to make you feel like you know what is going to happen, but the twists and secrets are woven in to shock you all throughout the book. I loved how the authors continued to shock you all throughout the story instead of just one big twist at the end.
Cate Cabot has always been okay with being an introvert and keeping other people at arm's length until the day she meets Odessa Devurney. One day Odessa comes into Cate's job and she left a lasting impression on Cate simply because of how nice she was. Working at a boutique where people would come to make lavish purchases, Cate has been used to customers paying her no mind or looking down on here. Odessa however acknowledges Cate and treats her like a friend even going as far as to invite her out to lunch. Out of nowhere, Cate gets a rushed and manic voicemail from Odessa saying that she needs to meet her right away but then she never shows up. Nervous that something has happened to her friend, Cate insists on searching for her but the secrets and twists that follow will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for giving me access to this arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2020
I thought I settled in with a nice, familiar comfy book that was somewhat predictable. Ummmm I do not know what the heck happened, but somehow I missed all the signs and this book flipped my world!!! Really good character development and a tingling thread of suspense that rises up and smacks you in the face when you least expect it.
Cate Calbot is adorable, and definitely a work in progress. She is my favorite character because she is someone who is inside each of us deep where maybe others do not often get to see. :)
I really want to keep writing about this book but am forcing myself to stop because I do not want to accidentally slip and give out spoilers. The summary grabbed my attention, but the writing is what kept my attention all the way through until the end!!! Well done Sunday Tomassetti!!!
Cate Calbot is adorable, and definitely a work in progress. She is my favorite character because she is someone who is inside each of us deep where maybe others do not often get to see. :)
I really want to keep writing about this book but am forcing myself to stop because I do not want to accidentally slip and give out spoilers. The summary grabbed my attention, but the writing is what kept my attention all the way through until the end!!! Well done Sunday Tomassetti!!!
October 14, 2025
Girl what the fuck was that?!
May 8, 2020
It's hard to say what I thought about this without giving anything away, so I'll just say that this book took a turn I really don't tend to enjoy in thrillers. It's not uncommon, but I've rated books 1 star before for going in this direction, so my 3 star rating here is a testament to the fact that this really was very enjoyable to read. I would recommend it if you're looking for something light and fast-paced, since a lot of readers don't have the same feelings toward this plot device that I do. Overall, still a fun read (but Sean is bland as hell.)
December 22, 2020
What kind of an ending was that? I feel cheated and would like my money back.
March 7, 2025
Empezó bien, pero decayó por la forma en que se abordan ciertos temas.
March 10, 2020
I want to start this by saying that I am a huge fan of Minka Kent. I’ve loved all of her books but this one was subpar at best. It was hard to follow, there were plot holes and loose ends. I also feel it made light of mental health with the way it ended. Definitely not her best work.
September 21, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
Minka Kent has become one of my go-to authors, so when I saw The Trophy Wife on NetGalley—even as a revised edition—I didn’t hesitate to grab it. I’m so glad I did! Addictive and full of tension, this fast-paced, gripping ride peels back the cracks in a so-called “perfect” marriage.
Ainsley seems to have it all—a wealthy husband, a beautiful home, and the security others envy. But cracks appear as she questions his controlling behavior and uncovers buried secrets. When her past resurfaces and truths about her husband come to light, her picture-perfect life unravels. Forced to separate illusion from reality, Ainsley must decide if she has the strength to break free—or remain trapped as someone’s “trophy.”
Three years ago I read The Stillwater Girls and, more recently, Imaginary Strangers—and I loved them both. It’s safe to say I really enjoy Minka Kent’s writing style. Her prose is sharp, straightforward, and fast-paced, with suspense built through short, tense chapters that you can fly through in one sitting. Rather than relying on heavy detail, she focuses on atmosphere and psychological tension, creating a reading experience that feels both intimate and unsettling.
What I particularly liked about The Trophy Wife is how it digs into the idea of appearances versus reality, showing how a life that looks glamorous from the outside can feel suffocating underneath. Ainsley’s story highlights the tug-of-war between control and freedom, and how easily identity and self-worth can get lost when you’re cast in the role of someone else’s “trophy.” Secrets and lies sit at the heart of the book, slowly peeling back to reveal a very different truth than the one Ainsley thought she was living. In short, I liked how Kent captured the unease of a seemingly perfect marriage—it felt tense and believable. Alternatively, some twists are a little predictable, and the characters occasionally fall into familiar “thriller” roles such as the fragile wife and the overbearing husband. While effective, it felt it was a bit formulaic to me.
All in all, The Trophy Wife is a fast, addictive read that weaves in just the right amount of paranoia and claustrophobia to keep me hooked. I’d recommend it to fans of Minka Kent and to anyone who enjoys domestic psychological thrillers centered on marriage, control, and buried secrets.
Thank you Net Galley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC of this revised book in exchange for my review.
Minka Kent has become one of my go-to authors, so when I saw The Trophy Wife on NetGalley—even as a revised edition—I didn’t hesitate to grab it. I’m so glad I did! Addictive and full of tension, this fast-paced, gripping ride peels back the cracks in a so-called “perfect” marriage.
Ainsley seems to have it all—a wealthy husband, a beautiful home, and the security others envy. But cracks appear as she questions his controlling behavior and uncovers buried secrets. When her past resurfaces and truths about her husband come to light, her picture-perfect life unravels. Forced to separate illusion from reality, Ainsley must decide if she has the strength to break free—or remain trapped as someone’s “trophy.”
Three years ago I read The Stillwater Girls and, more recently, Imaginary Strangers—and I loved them both. It’s safe to say I really enjoy Minka Kent’s writing style. Her prose is sharp, straightforward, and fast-paced, with suspense built through short, tense chapters that you can fly through in one sitting. Rather than relying on heavy detail, she focuses on atmosphere and psychological tension, creating a reading experience that feels both intimate and unsettling.
What I particularly liked about The Trophy Wife is how it digs into the idea of appearances versus reality, showing how a life that looks glamorous from the outside can feel suffocating underneath. Ainsley’s story highlights the tug-of-war between control and freedom, and how easily identity and self-worth can get lost when you’re cast in the role of someone else’s “trophy.” Secrets and lies sit at the heart of the book, slowly peeling back to reveal a very different truth than the one Ainsley thought she was living. In short, I liked how Kent captured the unease of a seemingly perfect marriage—it felt tense and believable. Alternatively, some twists are a little predictable, and the characters occasionally fall into familiar “thriller” roles such as the fragile wife and the overbearing husband. While effective, it felt it was a bit formulaic to me.
All in all, The Trophy Wife is a fast, addictive read that weaves in just the right amount of paranoia and claustrophobia to keep me hooked. I’d recommend it to fans of Minka Kent and to anyone who enjoys domestic psychological thrillers centered on marriage, control, and buried secrets.
Thank you Net Galley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC of this revised book in exchange for my review.
September 23, 2025
It’s not often that a book has an ending where I can say even if I had 1000 guesses, I’d never guess the ending. I really liked the alternating points of view and being able to get to know both main characters. I really thought I knew where the book was headed and I love how I was so wrong. This was an excellent psychological thriller.
September 19, 2025
This was a good book. I always enjoy when books go back-and-forth between points of view. There were definitely some twists that I did not expect. I enjoyed reading this.
May 21, 2020
This was my third and final Minka Kenta aka Sunday Tomassetti book I read in April. It's safe to say, she is now a go-to author; I don't think I've ever read three books by the same author in any given month. This was another compulsive, suspenseful read that I read in a day and a half (and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish). I just HAD to know what happened to Odessa. However, I did find the main twist to be a bit outlandish - but it also didn't help that I had read two other books with essentially the same plot twist recently (I guess that is bound to happen when you read mostly thrillers lol). That aside, this is a fun roller coaster ride!
March 7, 2020
4.5 ✨
What a story. This was a psychological suspense which I enjoy because who doesn’t like a good mindfuck?
Sunday Tomassetti definitely threw you for many loops with this one. Like my brain hurts after reading this lol.
I tried building my theories early in the story but was proven wrong with almost every one.
By the end I’m still not 100% sure what’s real and what’s not.
The only reason this isn’t five stars is the ending. I am not a fan of an ambiguous ending. I like the story wrapped up nice and tidy. At the end of this book, I still had more questions.
Overall though, Trophy Wife had me hooked and I didn’t want to read put it down. I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.
What a story. This was a psychological suspense which I enjoy because who doesn’t like a good mindfuck?
Sunday Tomassetti definitely threw you for many loops with this one. Like my brain hurts after reading this lol.
I tried building my theories early in the story but was proven wrong with almost every one.
By the end I’m still not 100% sure what’s real and what’s not.
The only reason this isn’t five stars is the ending. I am not a fan of an ambiguous ending. I like the story wrapped up nice and tidy. At the end of this book, I still had more questions.
Overall though, Trophy Wife had me hooked and I didn’t want to read put it down. I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.
March 4, 2020
Whoa, this will not be my last book by this author. It kept me guessing all the way through.
Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another twist or turn would pop up and completely derail my thinking. The pacing of this story was great. I was captivated from the very first chapter and wanted to read it quickly to figure out what was going on.
I don't want to spoil anything because going into this book with nothing more than the synopsis is the way you should go. Keep your mind open and be taken on a ride trying to figure out who is who, and what is what.
I am definitely going to be checking out more of this author's work. I enjoyed this thriller so much and can't wait to read more.
Grateful to have received a complimentary ARC copy to honestly review.
Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another twist or turn would pop up and completely derail my thinking. The pacing of this story was great. I was captivated from the very first chapter and wanted to read it quickly to figure out what was going on.
I don't want to spoil anything because going into this book with nothing more than the synopsis is the way you should go. Keep your mind open and be taken on a ride trying to figure out who is who, and what is what.
I am definitely going to be checking out more of this author's work. I enjoyed this thriller so much and can't wait to read more.
Grateful to have received a complimentary ARC copy to honestly review.
March 7, 2020
Ah. I did not like this book at all. I would have rated it 1 star but bumped it up to 2 because it kept me interested enough to finish but it was a snooze-fest. I slogged through it and the premise is no where near as suspenseful or interesting as the description on the synopsis. The characters were unforgettable, it was slow paced, too many reveals and “twists” happened way too early so by the middle of the book you ask yourself why continue? This book also relies heavily on the unreliable narrator plot device and once you have read a lot of thrillers unfortunately this gets boring and underwhelming. Also using mental health especially in thrillers to push a story doesn’t sit right with me.
Sunday Tomasetti I believe is the pseudonym for the author Minka Kent I have read her book ‘when I was you’ and rated that one 4 stars. This one sadly isn’t half as good.
Sunday Tomasetti I believe is the pseudonym for the author Minka Kent I have read her book ‘when I was you’ and rated that one 4 stars. This one sadly isn’t half as good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2020
"...what begins as an unlikely friendship..." is a little misleading, I think. Cate knows Odessa as a customer who's frequented the high-end consignment shop where Cate works. Cate and Odessa have one lunch date, then Odessa disappears. The fact that Cate doesn't really have any other friends makes her hesitant to write Odessa off, even though most people probably would.
To dissect the story more would be to spoil it, but it's quite twisty, veering off into directions that surprised me and kept my attention. But the ending left me a little stumped, as I'm not sure it's a sufficient enough explanation. Cate went to the police, I don't understand how nothing came of that?
To dissect the story more would be to spoil it, but it's quite twisty, veering off into directions that surprised me and kept my attention. But the ending left me a little stumped, as I'm not sure it's a sufficient enough explanation. Cate went to the police, I don't understand how nothing came of that?
March 6, 2020
even mental disorders can’t glue together a plot line that is flimsy at best
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
free-on-amazon-owned
August 4, 2021Free 4 August 2021:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YRRKNYW/...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YRRKNYW/...
November 22, 2025
Talk about unreliable narrative. Good book but it sort of pissed me off that the reader is completely led astray.
October 2, 2025
4.5 stars!
This book was an exhilarating ride! I didn't read the previous edition of this book, and honestly, I'm glad I didn't because I really enjoyed this version!
Cate Cabot, a reserved boutique employee, becomes friends with Odessa DuVernay, a seemingly perfect trophy wife. Their friendship takes a turn when Odessa leaves a frantic voicemail asking to meet but then vanishes. Obsessed with finding her, Cate risks everything in her search for answers.
The story is told from dual perspectives—Cate and Zsofia—and spans dual timelines. This approach is essential for fully grasping the narrative and making the necessary connections. Both Cate and Odessa are likeable characters, but as we dig deeper into their budding friendship, we realize that not everything is as it appears. Cate finds herself questioning this new friendship, which is completely understandable. After all, if someone who seems to have it all wants to be friends with someone who only dreams of that lifestyle, you'd also be wary of Odessa's intentions.
I found this book incredibly hard to put down, so I recommend clearing your schedule for a day because you won’t want to walk away from it. It's a suspenseful read filled with major twists and turns, and I honestly didn’t see the ending coming. I remained skeptical right up until the last page, and who could have predicted that? Just wow! You’ll definitely want to add this to your TBR pile because it will leave you wondering, "What did I just read?"
If you enjoy fast-paced, hard-to-put-down books laced with a touch of obsession, complex friendships, and some seriously unexpected conclusions, this one's for you. If you've read the previous edition, I must say I'm sorry because this one truly shines! I hear the ending was re-written, and it’s brilliant, so don’t hesitate—scoot on over and order this book!
Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was an exhilarating ride! I didn't read the previous edition of this book, and honestly, I'm glad I didn't because I really enjoyed this version!
Cate Cabot, a reserved boutique employee, becomes friends with Odessa DuVernay, a seemingly perfect trophy wife. Their friendship takes a turn when Odessa leaves a frantic voicemail asking to meet but then vanishes. Obsessed with finding her, Cate risks everything in her search for answers.
The story is told from dual perspectives—Cate and Zsofia—and spans dual timelines. This approach is essential for fully grasping the narrative and making the necessary connections. Both Cate and Odessa are likeable characters, but as we dig deeper into their budding friendship, we realize that not everything is as it appears. Cate finds herself questioning this new friendship, which is completely understandable. After all, if someone who seems to have it all wants to be friends with someone who only dreams of that lifestyle, you'd also be wary of Odessa's intentions.
I found this book incredibly hard to put down, so I recommend clearing your schedule for a day because you won’t want to walk away from it. It's a suspenseful read filled with major twists and turns, and I honestly didn’t see the ending coming. I remained skeptical right up until the last page, and who could have predicted that? Just wow! You’ll definitely want to add this to your TBR pile because it will leave you wondering, "What did I just read?"
If you enjoy fast-paced, hard-to-put-down books laced with a touch of obsession, complex friendships, and some seriously unexpected conclusions, this one's for you. If you've read the previous edition, I must say I'm sorry because this one truly shines! I hear the ending was re-written, and it’s brilliant, so don’t hesitate—scoot on over and order this book!
Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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