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His Other Woman
Fiona Carlton has never needed a man to make her life complete. Until she meets charming, handsome and sophisticated Richard. She is consumed, first by lust, then by a love for him that overwhelms her. The only problem? Richard already has a wife. But a little detail like that isn’t going to stand in Fiona’s way…
Richard’s wife, Lydia, however, is not a woman to be trifled with. She’s sacrificed everything for her husband, been the perfect stay-at-home wife and mother, raised two beautiful children, built a happy home full of memories. She refuses to stand by and watch a woman like Fiona take what’s hers.
But when both women discover the truth about the man they love, everything changes…
And Richard is about to learn that if a woman scorned is dangerous, two wronged women are deadly.
Richard’s wife, Lydia, however, is not a woman to be trifled with. She’s sacrificed everything for her husband, been the perfect stay-at-home wife and mother, raised two beautiful children, built a happy home full of memories. She refuses to stand by and watch a woman like Fiona take what’s hers.
But when both women discover the truth about the man they love, everything changes…
And Richard is about to learn that if a woman scorned is dangerous, two wronged women are deadly.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2025
3078 people are currently reading
906 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Keogh
43 books853 followersValerie started to write several years ago. She self-published eight crime novels and one psychological thriller before signing a two book contract with Bookouture in March 2018. The first of these, Secrets Between Us, is available now and the second is due in Feb 2019. She is a registered nurse with a degree in English and a Masters in American Literature. Recently she has given up nursing to concentrate on her writing career.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
September 30, 2025
What a twisty read! Valerie Keogh is an auto-read author because she always creates unputdownable thrillers. His Other Woman is no exception. “In a dog-eat-dog world, she’d learnt it was the bitch who survived.” The previous quote exemplifies the strong women who dominate this tale of betrayal and revenge. I was gripped by this original and cleverly crafted plot. The story was unpredictable and full of countless twists and turns. The conclusion was shocking and satisfying. Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my ARC.
November 6, 2025
Is prolific popcorn thriller author Valerie Keogh having a speed writing contest with prolific author Freida McFadden?
If so, who is the winner?
❓🥇🏆🥇🤷🤷♀️❓
The book's premise was intriguing:
A woman scorned is dangerous; two wronged women scorned are deadly.
The book starts strong, quickly building tension as two women realize that the deeply flawed man they both love has deceived them both.
The book's twists were plentiful and meticulously placed.
Overall, the author did a superb job of putting a compelling new spin on the classic trope of infidelity.
WHY NOT 5 STARS?
At times, the book's middle section felt repetitive and slightly drawn out.
I listened to the audiobook, expertly narrated by Rose Robinson, one of my favorite narrators.
Even though Rose Robinson's narration was 10-star, the book would have benefited from two narrators since it unfolded from two POVs.
November 4, 2025
His Other Women by Valerie Keogh is a sharp, emotional psychological thriller that pulls you right into the tangled relationships between Lydia, Fiona, and Richard. I really enjoyed how Keogh built these characters, they all felt incredibly desperate in their own way, caught between love, betrayal, and self-deception. On some small level, I even felt sorry for all of them.
Lydia, the betrayed wife of forty years, and Fiona, the “other woman,” are both complex and layered. And then there’s Richard, charming, damaged, and emotionally immature in ways that make sense once Keogh reveals his past. I really appreciated how Keogh explored the root of Richard’s behavior, showing how being sexually taken advantage of as a fourteen-year-old teenager shaped the way he related to women and the world. It’s not an easy topic to read about, but it added real depth and empathy to his character.
What I liked most was how Keogh avoided turning this into just another “scorned woman” story. She gives us all three perspectives, the husband, the wife, and the mistress, and lets readers see the messy, human side of everyone involved. From what I’ve seen, most readers seem to take sides, but I think that’s the brilliance of the book: there’s no simple villain here, only flawed people making terrible choices.
As in all her books, Keogh writes with a perfect rhythm, that steady, psychological beat that keeps you reading long past bedtime. Every chapter builds quietly until it all explodes in that final, haunting twist.
A haunting, beautifully paced psychological thriller that dives deep into the hearts of flawed people. Keogh once again proves she’s a master of emotional tension.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood books for the Advanced Readers Copy.
Lydia, the betrayed wife of forty years, and Fiona, the “other woman,” are both complex and layered. And then there’s Richard, charming, damaged, and emotionally immature in ways that make sense once Keogh reveals his past. I really appreciated how Keogh explored the root of Richard’s behavior, showing how being sexually taken advantage of as a fourteen-year-old teenager shaped the way he related to women and the world. It’s not an easy topic to read about, but it added real depth and empathy to his character.
What I liked most was how Keogh avoided turning this into just another “scorned woman” story. She gives us all three perspectives, the husband, the wife, and the mistress, and lets readers see the messy, human side of everyone involved. From what I’ve seen, most readers seem to take sides, but I think that’s the brilliance of the book: there’s no simple villain here, only flawed people making terrible choices.
As in all her books, Keogh writes with a perfect rhythm, that steady, psychological beat that keeps you reading long past bedtime. Every chapter builds quietly until it all explodes in that final, haunting twist.
A haunting, beautifully paced psychological thriller that dives deep into the hearts of flawed people. Keogh once again proves she’s a master of emotional tension.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood books for the Advanced Readers Copy.
October 21, 2025
Another roaring success for this author, it has all the trademarks of the Pyschological thriller we have come to expect but also there is something a bit different too….
The book focuses on Fiona ( the wife ) and Lydia ( the mistress ) and the rather smarmy Richard who appears not only to not know his wife of 30 years and her capabilities when pushed but also is unaware of his mistresses deep feelings towards him….he really should have been more prepared for what would happen when the 2 of them found out his secret….and what a secret
It is written very cleverly giving an insight into all 3’s feelings and I did side with Fiona but it was really interesting how the 2’s reactions to each other was at times mixed,as well as hatred often a begrudging respect was tagged onto the venomous feelings they had for each other
The scene re lift graffiti was very funny and shocking and can just imagine both women’s faces at the outcome
A good ending that made you wonder……
Great exciting storytelling from this favourite author.
The book focuses on Fiona ( the wife ) and Lydia ( the mistress ) and the rather smarmy Richard who appears not only to not know his wife of 30 years and her capabilities when pushed but also is unaware of his mistresses deep feelings towards him….he really should have been more prepared for what would happen when the 2 of them found out his secret….and what a secret
It is written very cleverly giving an insight into all 3’s feelings and I did side with Fiona but it was really interesting how the 2’s reactions to each other was at times mixed,as well as hatred often a begrudging respect was tagged onto the venomous feelings they had for each other
The scene re lift graffiti was very funny and shocking and can just imagine both women’s faces at the outcome
A good ending that made you wonder……
Great exciting storytelling from this favourite author.
November 3, 2025
Brilliant book with a crazy meeting of two people that cause a tangled web of dishonesty, truth, murder, crazy thrill of a ride reading this book.
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
October 22, 2025
HIS OTHER WOMAN an addictive, thriller from Valerie Keogh, author of NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER The Nurse.
Her Standalone Novels Include:
The Trophy Wife (2014) aka Exit Five from Charing Cross
Secrets Between Us (2018)
The Housewife (2019)
The Three Women (2020)
The Perfect Life (2020)
The Lawyer (2020) aka The Deadly Truth / The Whispers' Echo
The Little Lies (2021)
The Lies He Told (2021)
The Couple in the Photograph (2021)
The Housekeeper (2022)
A Taste of Deceit (2022)
The Lodger (2022)
The Widow (2022)
The Librarian (2023)
The Nurse (2023)
The Mistress (2024)
The Mother (2024)
The Wives (2024)
The Bookseller (2025)
The Writer (2025)
His Other Woman (2025)
The Sister (2025)
This is my review of His Other Woman.
Fiona Carlton is a successful business woman who is independent and never needed a man to be complete until she meets charming, handsome and sophisticated Rich. She falls in love with him…but there is one problem…he’s married. But this isn’t going to stop her from getting her man.
Richard’s wife, Lydia, has sacrificed everything for her husband, been the perfect stay-at-home wife and mother, raised two beautiful children, built a happy home full of memories. She refuses to stand by and watch a woman like Fiona take what’s hers.
And then the cat’s claws come out. Both women obsessed fighting for the same man.
But when both women discover the truth about the man they love, everything changes…
And Richard underestimated the two women in his life and how dangerous this could be.
The chapters alternate between Fiona’s and Lydia’s viewpoints. The plot is well-paced, and the characters are well-developed. I found this a very enjoyable read.
Many thanks to the author, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my digital copy.
Her Standalone Novels Include:
The Trophy Wife (2014) aka Exit Five from Charing Cross
Secrets Between Us (2018)
The Housewife (2019)
The Three Women (2020)
The Perfect Life (2020)
The Lawyer (2020) aka The Deadly Truth / The Whispers' Echo
The Little Lies (2021)
The Lies He Told (2021)
The Couple in the Photograph (2021)
The Housekeeper (2022)
A Taste of Deceit (2022)
The Lodger (2022)
The Widow (2022)
The Librarian (2023)
The Nurse (2023)
The Mistress (2024)
The Mother (2024)
The Wives (2024)
The Bookseller (2025)
The Writer (2025)
His Other Woman (2025)
The Sister (2025)
This is my review of His Other Woman.
Fiona Carlton is a successful business woman who is independent and never needed a man to be complete until she meets charming, handsome and sophisticated Rich. She falls in love with him…but there is one problem…he’s married. But this isn’t going to stop her from getting her man.
Richard’s wife, Lydia, has sacrificed everything for her husband, been the perfect stay-at-home wife and mother, raised two beautiful children, built a happy home full of memories. She refuses to stand by and watch a woman like Fiona take what’s hers.
And then the cat’s claws come out. Both women obsessed fighting for the same man.
But when both women discover the truth about the man they love, everything changes…
And Richard underestimated the two women in his life and how dangerous this could be.
The chapters alternate between Fiona’s and Lydia’s viewpoints. The plot is well-paced, and the characters are well-developed. I found this a very enjoyable read.
Many thanks to the author, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my digital copy.
October 25, 2025
HIS OTHER WOMAN BY VALERIE KEOGH
Release date set for the 3rd of November 2025.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
I love the cover for this book.
His other woman is told in multiple POVs from both the women and sometimes the husband.
It's an addictive domestic suspense thriller and I was all here for it
Release date set for the 3rd of November 2025.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
I love the cover for this book.
His other woman is told in multiple POVs from both the women and sometimes the husband.
It's an addictive domestic suspense thriller and I was all here for it
October 16, 2025
I really struggled with this one — it was such a slow read, and I found myself checking how far I’d got through far more often than I’d like to admit. The pacing was glacial, and about 80% of the book felt like the same two chapters on repeat. Fiona spends endless pages fretting about how to make Rich hers for good, while Lydia worries just as much about keeping hold of him. It became exhausting after a while, not because of the drama, but because nothing ever really happened. I don’t mind a slow burn when it’s layered or psychologically tense, but this felt like it was going in circles.
The biggest issue for me, though, was Rich himself. I couldn’t for the life of me understand why either woman was so obsessed with him. He had no charm, no humour, no edge — just a bland, self-centred personality that made him utterly forgettable. I kept waiting for that “aha” moment that would explain the attraction, but it never came. It left the entire premise feeling a bit hollow, because the central love triangle just didn’t make sense when the man at the centre had the charisma of a damp sponge.
What really grated was how Lydia was portrayed. As a middle-aged housewife myself, I found it quite insulting. The narrative seemed to suggest that once you’re over a certain age, you’re automatically dull, frumpy, and desperate to cling to what little you have left — which is such an outdated and damaging trope. Middle-aged women are not invisible, and we’re certainly not lesser beings just because we have laugh lines and don’t spend our days worrying about whether we look “fresh”. The constant comparison between Lydia and the younger, glossier Fiona felt unnecessarily cruel, as if the author wanted to make a point about fading beauty rather than explore anything deeper about relationships or self-worth. It honestly made me quite uncomfortable at times.
The only saving grace was the final 20%. Once the real story finally started to emerge, it was noticeably more engaging. There was tension, some actual plot movement, and a glimpse of the psychological thriller I’d been expecting all along. Unfortunately, it came far too late. After all that slow build-up, the ending felt oddly rushed — like the author had suddenly realised she needed to cram the real twists into the final few chapters. It could have been a much stronger book if that balance had been reversed.
By the time I reached the last page, I felt more relief than satisfaction. I can’t say it was a good read for me, and I doubt it’ll stick in my mind for long. I’m not sure why I persevered, maybe just stubbornness, but it’s one I’ll probably forget within a week. I’ve read and enjoyed Valerie Keogh’s writing before, but this one just didn’t hit the mark at all — too repetitive, too shallow in its characterisation, and too dismissive of women my age to ever really sit comfortably.
The biggest issue for me, though, was Rich himself. I couldn’t for the life of me understand why either woman was so obsessed with him. He had no charm, no humour, no edge — just a bland, self-centred personality that made him utterly forgettable. I kept waiting for that “aha” moment that would explain the attraction, but it never came. It left the entire premise feeling a bit hollow, because the central love triangle just didn’t make sense when the man at the centre had the charisma of a damp sponge.
What really grated was how Lydia was portrayed. As a middle-aged housewife myself, I found it quite insulting. The narrative seemed to suggest that once you’re over a certain age, you’re automatically dull, frumpy, and desperate to cling to what little you have left — which is such an outdated and damaging trope. Middle-aged women are not invisible, and we’re certainly not lesser beings just because we have laugh lines and don’t spend our days worrying about whether we look “fresh”. The constant comparison between Lydia and the younger, glossier Fiona felt unnecessarily cruel, as if the author wanted to make a point about fading beauty rather than explore anything deeper about relationships or self-worth. It honestly made me quite uncomfortable at times.
The only saving grace was the final 20%. Once the real story finally started to emerge, it was noticeably more engaging. There was tension, some actual plot movement, and a glimpse of the psychological thriller I’d been expecting all along. Unfortunately, it came far too late. After all that slow build-up, the ending felt oddly rushed — like the author had suddenly realised she needed to cram the real twists into the final few chapters. It could have been a much stronger book if that balance had been reversed.
By the time I reached the last page, I felt more relief than satisfaction. I can’t say it was a good read for me, and I doubt it’ll stick in my mind for long. I’m not sure why I persevered, maybe just stubbornness, but it’s one I’ll probably forget within a week. I’ve read and enjoyed Valerie Keogh’s writing before, but this one just didn’t hit the mark at all — too repetitive, too shallow in its characterisation, and too dismissive of women my age to ever really sit comfortably.
September 25, 2025
Valerie Keogh is one of my faves authors so I’m
always excited when she has a new book coming out. This book was one wild ride and I loved the many twists she threw in. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. To be published November 2025.
always excited when she has a new book coming out. This book was one wild ride and I loved the many twists she threw in. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. To be published November 2025.
October 24, 2025
3.75 rounded to 4 stars for me.
Richard’s wife, Lydia will not let her husband of over forty years just leave her.Fiona will not let some old wife to stop her from being with Richard.Once Richard secret is revealed,those two women find themself bonded to get revenge.
The question is will Richard go out from all this affair unscratched?
Full of tension this book was a fast read.Told from few POV,I get chance to know all charscters,and the best was Lydia in my opinion.Loving,kind but then when needed cruel and cold.This book grab my attention and didn't let go,the ending and twist disturbing.My first book by this author and hope to read more.
I would recommend this book for thriller with twist fans.
Thank you netgalley and Boldwoodpublisher for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Richard’s wife, Lydia will not let her husband of over forty years just leave her.Fiona will not let some old wife to stop her from being with Richard.Once Richard secret is revealed,those two women find themself bonded to get revenge.
The question is will Richard go out from all this affair unscratched?
Full of tension this book was a fast read.Told from few POV,I get chance to know all charscters,and the best was Lydia in my opinion.Loving,kind but then when needed cruel and cold.This book grab my attention and didn't let go,the ending and twist disturbing.My first book by this author and hope to read more.
I would recommend this book for thriller with twist fans.
Thank you netgalley and Boldwoodpublisher for arc,my review is honest and my own.
January 11, 2026
Richard and Lydia have been married for 40 years when his head is turned by a woman called Fiona. Fiona realises pretty quickly that Rich is married but these is something about him that she can’t resist.
Lydia has let herself go, children have flown the nest and she dreads to think that Rich’s head could of been by someone more younger, more beautiful than she is, but if that is the case, and if Rich thinks that he can just trade her in then he is very sadly mistaken.
Grab your pop corn for this one and get ready for some drama with a capital D. This one drew me in from the start, and I couldn’t wait for everything to unfold!
Lydia has let herself go, children have flown the nest and she dreads to think that Rich’s head could of been by someone more younger, more beautiful than she is, but if that is the case, and if Rich thinks that he can just trade her in then he is very sadly mistaken.
Grab your pop corn for this one and get ready for some drama with a capital D. This one drew me in from the start, and I couldn’t wait for everything to unfold!
October 16, 2025
Valerie Keogh’s His Other Woman is a twisty and fast paced domestic suspense that dives deep into the messy entanglements of love, lies, and betrayal. At its center is Fiona, a confident, independent woman who falls for Richard, a man who has been married to Lydia for forty years. Fiona doesn’t relish being the other woman but she’s head over heels for Richard. When the truth about him surfaces and both women find themselves connected by something far darker than infidelity, the story takes a startling and unpredictable turn.
What really made this one stand out for me was the strength of its female leads. Both Lydia and Fiona have distinct, sharply drawn voices that pull you into their emotional worlds—the bitterness, the denial, the righteous anger. The plot is tense and pacey, and while it occasionally veers into the unhinged or even borderline ridiculous, I was fully entertained from start to finish. It’s the kind of book that thrives on drama and deception, and Keogh delivers both in spades. Perfect for readers who love their thrillers tangled, fast, and deliciously over the top.
October 18, 2025
Once again, Valerie brings her A-game to the world of domestic thrillers. It’s always a pleasure to see how her stories unfold and how the character dynamics evolve.
This time, we follow two women. Lydia, a wife of forty years, and Fiona, her husband’s mistress, as they find themselves vying for the same man’s affection. What unfolds is a tangled web of secrets, deceit, and delicious mischief.
The story delivers a lots of twists and turns, keeping you engaged right to the end, and it all plays out in a way you will not see coming.
Highly recommend if you enjoy a slow burn, characters you’ll love to hate (or at least find mildly irritating 😅), plenty of depth, unpredictable endings, and a generous dose of domestic drama.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this novel.
This time, we follow two women. Lydia, a wife of forty years, and Fiona, her husband’s mistress, as they find themselves vying for the same man’s affection. What unfolds is a tangled web of secrets, deceit, and delicious mischief.
The story delivers a lots of twists and turns, keeping you engaged right to the end, and it all plays out in a way you will not see coming.
Highly recommend if you enjoy a slow burn, characters you’ll love to hate (or at least find mildly irritating 😅), plenty of depth, unpredictable endings, and a generous dose of domestic drama.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy of this novel.
October 3, 2025
Not sure how I’ve gone this long without reading Valerie Keogh novel. I was quickly wrapped up in this deceptive, twist-filled psychological thriller. What started as a simple affair spun into a dark, addictive domestic drama that kept me turning the pages.
The story followed Fiona who fell for Richard, only to discover he was already married to Lydia. When both women uncovered his lies, jealousy and betrayal, all spiraled into something far more dangerous.
His Other Woman pulled me in with its intriguing setup and tense dynamic between Fiona and Lydia. I liked how the story gave space to both women’s perspectives, which added layers of emotion and drama to the love triangle. The dark, domestic noir tone kept me turning the pages, especially as jealousy and betrayal bubbled just beneath the surface. That said, some of the characters’ decisions were frustrating to follow, and a few of the twists were more predictable than shocking, which dulled the impact in places. Still, the simmering tension and tangled relationships made this a gripping and addictive read.
While the cheating-husband trope is a familiar one, what made this story stand out was how Keogh gave both women a strong voice. By showing Fiona and Lydia’s perspectives, the tension felt sharper and the emotions more layered and added more depth to a storyline that could have easily felt predictable. Even with a few flaws, His Other Woman was a tense and engaging domestic thriller that kept me hooked until the end.
Much thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
The story followed Fiona who fell for Richard, only to discover he was already married to Lydia. When both women uncovered his lies, jealousy and betrayal, all spiraled into something far more dangerous.
His Other Woman pulled me in with its intriguing setup and tense dynamic between Fiona and Lydia. I liked how the story gave space to both women’s perspectives, which added layers of emotion and drama to the love triangle. The dark, domestic noir tone kept me turning the pages, especially as jealousy and betrayal bubbled just beneath the surface. That said, some of the characters’ decisions were frustrating to follow, and a few of the twists were more predictable than shocking, which dulled the impact in places. Still, the simmering tension and tangled relationships made this a gripping and addictive read.
While the cheating-husband trope is a familiar one, what made this story stand out was how Keogh gave both women a strong voice. By showing Fiona and Lydia’s perspectives, the tension felt sharper and the emotions more layered and added more depth to a storyline that could have easily felt predictable. Even with a few flaws, His Other Woman was a tense and engaging domestic thriller that kept me hooked until the end.
Much thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
January 30, 2026
Did I read the same book as everyone else? Causeee this was not as good as everyone said it was. lol listened to the audio book and I was bored.
November 7, 2025
3.5 stars
I’ve read several books by this author. They are always well written easy to read stories. This one was no exception. The short chapters and multiple perspectives makes the book fly by and I read this in one day.
I did find the beginning a bit slow in parts. I understood what was happening to set up the rest of the story but it did feel somewhat repetitive. Once the story hits its stride it does move very quickly. I can’t quite decide how I feel about the ending.
If you like popcorn style thrillers this one is a good read.
I’ve read several books by this author. They are always well written easy to read stories. This one was no exception. The short chapters and multiple perspectives makes the book fly by and I read this in one day.
I did find the beginning a bit slow in parts. I understood what was happening to set up the rest of the story but it did feel somewhat repetitive. Once the story hits its stride it does move very quickly. I can’t quite decide how I feel about the ending.
If you like popcorn style thrillers this one is a good read.
February 5, 2026
Hell hath no fury like two women scorned
The premise of this book was quite good and entertaining- more toward the last 25% of the story. It was very drawn out. Extremely wordy. I realize the Authors intent was for her audience to really feel and understand each woman’s disposition and how they truly felt in this twisted situation they ultimately found themselves in. Being a wife myself for almost 20 years, I couldn’t help but feel for the wife. And yet want to shake her to snap out of it at the same time. Lydia and Rich have been married for 40 years. They are both in their 60’s. He is the charming silver fox who finds himself in an affair with a woman 20 years younger than him - Fiona. In the story, it tells of how Lydia has let herself go. She’s older middle aged bored housewife who has two adult children she shares with her husband. They moved out of the country. She didn’t continue to better herself. She has nothing to fulfill her days and she has gained weight, doesn’t dress well, and let her hair go. Her husband is fit, charming and also a cheater. He meets the dazzling, younger full of life Fiona “by accident”. It was supposed to be an innocent meeting that turned into a full blown affair. He struggled with doing the right thing but he ultimately chooses his own happiness. Following ones heart can be misleading. Fiona is a woman not to be trifled with. She is single, never married, no children and lives beyond her means. She and Rich both work in Finance - she has had a promotion that she made sure was given to her. Fiona becomes obsessed with Rich and decides to do stalking of his wife. She soon realizes that her obsession is getting in the way of her work. Lydia is much too passive as is Rich and while he does finally have the courage to let his wife know he’s fallen for another woman, there is an interesting tidbit of information he lets spill that he doesn’t even realize his wife not only picked up on the info, but full on intends to use it without his knowledge. Suddenly the meek passed up housewife has a plan of blackmail and Fiona is going to go through with this plan or else………..
The premise of this book was quite good and entertaining- more toward the last 25% of the story. It was very drawn out. Extremely wordy. I realize the Authors intent was for her audience to really feel and understand each woman’s disposition and how they truly felt in this twisted situation they ultimately found themselves in. Being a wife myself for almost 20 years, I couldn’t help but feel for the wife. And yet want to shake her to snap out of it at the same time. Lydia and Rich have been married for 40 years. They are both in their 60’s. He is the charming silver fox who finds himself in an affair with a woman 20 years younger than him - Fiona. In the story, it tells of how Lydia has let herself go. She’s older middle aged bored housewife who has two adult children she shares with her husband. They moved out of the country. She didn’t continue to better herself. She has nothing to fulfill her days and she has gained weight, doesn’t dress well, and let her hair go. Her husband is fit, charming and also a cheater. He meets the dazzling, younger full of life Fiona “by accident”. It was supposed to be an innocent meeting that turned into a full blown affair. He struggled with doing the right thing but he ultimately chooses his own happiness. Following ones heart can be misleading. Fiona is a woman not to be trifled with. She is single, never married, no children and lives beyond her means. She and Rich both work in Finance - she has had a promotion that she made sure was given to her. Fiona becomes obsessed with Rich and decides to do stalking of his wife. She soon realizes that her obsession is getting in the way of her work. Lydia is much too passive as is Rich and while he does finally have the courage to let his wife know he’s fallen for another woman, there is an interesting tidbit of information he lets spill that he doesn’t even realize his wife not only picked up on the info, but full on intends to use it without his knowledge. Suddenly the meek passed up housewife has a plan of blackmail and Fiona is going to go through with this plan or else………..
September 20, 2025
Overall I enjoyed reading this book! It was an interesting storyline that captured my attention in the beginning. While it wasn't overly gripping, it did keep me interested and entertained through the whole book, and it had some good twists in the storyline. I would recommend it to other readers!
September 13, 2025
Slap bang thriller from best selling author Valerie Keogh, once more a winner.
Rich and Lydia Pickering-Davis a long forty years of marriage. And his other woman Fiona Calton.
If a woman scorned is dangerous, two wronged women are deadly, and Rick is about to learn in more ways imaginable.
A wife, a mistress, a deadly choice.
This book will take you away to one of the biggest almighty death warrant that I never did see coming.
I was turning over the pages with wide eyes, it's gripping, it's biteing, its mean, and murders done with a different.
Well done absolutely outstanding read.
Rich and Lydia Pickering-Davis a long forty years of marriage. And his other woman Fiona Calton.
If a woman scorned is dangerous, two wronged women are deadly, and Rick is about to learn in more ways imaginable.
A wife, a mistress, a deadly choice.
This book will take you away to one of the biggest almighty death warrant that I never did see coming.
I was turning over the pages with wide eyes, it's gripping, it's biteing, its mean, and murders done with a different.
Well done absolutely outstanding read.
November 7, 2025
This book starts slowly but really knows how to pick up steam towards the end! There's no shortage of twists and turns to keep you hooked, even if the pace doesn't feel rapid at first.
Fiona Carlton falls for the charming Richard, unaware he's married to Lydia, a devoted wife and mother. When both women learn the truth about Richard, tensions rise, leading to a dangerous confrontation between the two scorned women.
The story employs a unique timeline that helps you fully grasp the narrative and the events leading up to the climax. You’ll encounter several different perspectives from Lydia, Fiona, and Rich. Lydia is a relatable and likable character, making you reflect on how many people like her you might know in real life. Fiona, on the other hand, can be challenging to warm up to at first, but once you see things from her point of view, it becomes easier to understand her motives. And then there's Rich... I'll let you discover him for yourself!
The way the story unfolds feels so real, as if you're watching someone's life play out right before your eyes. This immersive experience pulls you in, compelling you to keep reading to see how everything unravels. I must admit, while it had a slow start, I truly enjoyed the unexpected twists and how everything ultimately came together. The writing is very clever! I didn't see the ending coming, and I think it's safe to say that no one will. Who doesn't appreciate an open-ended book? It leaves plenty of room for interpretation, allowing your imagination to run wild as you envision the characters' fates!
This read is perfect for anyone drawn to themes of revenge, dark secrets that slowly come to light with each chapter, and an ending that sparks contemplation about what might have happened. Dive into this book and share your thoughts with me afterward!
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC widget. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fiona Carlton falls for the charming Richard, unaware he's married to Lydia, a devoted wife and mother. When both women learn the truth about Richard, tensions rise, leading to a dangerous confrontation between the two scorned women.
The story employs a unique timeline that helps you fully grasp the narrative and the events leading up to the climax. You’ll encounter several different perspectives from Lydia, Fiona, and Rich. Lydia is a relatable and likable character, making you reflect on how many people like her you might know in real life. Fiona, on the other hand, can be challenging to warm up to at first, but once you see things from her point of view, it becomes easier to understand her motives. And then there's Rich... I'll let you discover him for yourself!
The way the story unfolds feels so real, as if you're watching someone's life play out right before your eyes. This immersive experience pulls you in, compelling you to keep reading to see how everything unravels. I must admit, while it had a slow start, I truly enjoyed the unexpected twists and how everything ultimately came together. The writing is very clever! I didn't see the ending coming, and I think it's safe to say that no one will. Who doesn't appreciate an open-ended book? It leaves plenty of room for interpretation, allowing your imagination to run wild as you envision the characters' fates!
This read is perfect for anyone drawn to themes of revenge, dark secrets that slowly come to light with each chapter, and an ending that sparks contemplation about what might have happened. Dive into this book and share your thoughts with me afterward!
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for the digital ARC widget. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2025
This book is about two women, Lydia and Fiona, and their relationship with Richard - their husband and lover, respectively. These two women have never met and don’t know each other, but they know they hate each other. That hatred filters through the entire book, taking on more steam until an ending that had me grinning!
Lydia and Richard have been together since teenagers, but after forty years of marriage, things have changed. Lydia was a stay-at-home mother until their twins moved to Australia and began their own lives. Now, she is a bored and boring housewife, stuck in a rut. Over the years, she’s gained some weight, and that along with aging has her feeling insecure. She knew Richard didn’t see her as an attractive woman anymore, but that feeling was confirmed when she found out her husband is having an affair with a younger woman.
Fiona is a single professional who literally ran into Richard on the street one day. He asked if she wanted to meet for wine, that turned into dinner, and eventually they were having a full-blown affair. Richard told Fiona from the start that he was married, but that didn’t bother her - she’s looking forward to persuading him to leave his wife for her. She’s at a point in her life where she wants to settle down, she loves this man, and now it’s her turn to be with him.
This book was a fun, and at times wickedly humorous, read. As the women start involving themselves more and more into each other’s lives, they both become more and more unhinged. Then that ending was fantastic, and different from how most books about women who’ve been wronged wind up. I loved it! Four stars.
(Thank you to Boldwood Books, Valerie Keogh and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on November 3, 2025.)
Lydia and Richard have been together since teenagers, but after forty years of marriage, things have changed. Lydia was a stay-at-home mother until their twins moved to Australia and began their own lives. Now, she is a bored and boring housewife, stuck in a rut. Over the years, she’s gained some weight, and that along with aging has her feeling insecure. She knew Richard didn’t see her as an attractive woman anymore, but that feeling was confirmed when she found out her husband is having an affair with a younger woman.
Fiona is a single professional who literally ran into Richard on the street one day. He asked if she wanted to meet for wine, that turned into dinner, and eventually they were having a full-blown affair. Richard told Fiona from the start that he was married, but that didn’t bother her - she’s looking forward to persuading him to leave his wife for her. She’s at a point in her life where she wants to settle down, she loves this man, and now it’s her turn to be with him.
This book was a fun, and at times wickedly humorous, read. As the women start involving themselves more and more into each other’s lives, they both become more and more unhinged. Then that ending was fantastic, and different from how most books about women who’ve been wronged wind up. I loved it! Four stars.
(Thank you to Boldwood Books, Valerie Keogh and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on November 3, 2025.)
November 15, 2025
The premise pulled me in right away — Fiona falling hard for Richard, only to find out he already has a wife, felt like the perfect setup for a messy, character-driven thriller. I liked the early tension of Fiona convincing herself their connection was “different,” while Lydia, Richard’s wife, starts sensing something is off at home. The alternating perspectives between the two women added a good push-and-pull, and I kept waiting for the inevitable collision.
But the pacing is where it lost me. Most of the book focuses on Fiona’s obsession growing and Lydia’s suspicions simmering, but the actual action doesn’t kick in until around the 80% mark. When the confrontation finally comes, it’s over in a blink, and the story just… stops. After all the buildup, the ending felt abrupt and unfinished, like the book cut out before delivering the payoff it had been promising.
I’ve read a few books by this author, and maybe this type of ending is her style, but for me it needed more. I honestly would’ve preferred the middle to be the start and the end to be the middle — the bones of a great thriller are here; they just never fully come together.
But the pacing is where it lost me. Most of the book focuses on Fiona’s obsession growing and Lydia’s suspicions simmering, but the actual action doesn’t kick in until around the 80% mark. When the confrontation finally comes, it’s over in a blink, and the story just… stops. After all the buildup, the ending felt abrupt and unfinished, like the book cut out before delivering the payoff it had been promising.
I’ve read a few books by this author, and maybe this type of ending is her style, but for me it needed more. I honestly would’ve preferred the middle to be the start and the end to be the middle — the bones of a great thriller are here; they just never fully come together.
February 13, 2026
Normally I'm not a fan of thrillers, but this one was bloody amazing! It had me on the edge of my seat and many a times I went to bed or had a break and I wondered what might happen next.
The premises is quite simple - a man cheating on his wife with another woman. However the way it is written is unique and full of intrigue and tension. Richard, Lydia and Fiona are far from perfect and they're complicated characters; it shows how flawed human beings are and how they can fall so low on the basis of obsession, jealously and dark feelings/thoughts. The rivalry and the escalation between both women was so perfect and when they encounter each other for the first time is shown in such a profound manner.
For a moment I convinced myself that there was a third woman involved and Fiona and Lydia was forced to work together. I was right about the latter, but I didn't expect the major plot twist at all. Very enjoyable and clever overall.
The premises is quite simple - a man cheating on his wife with another woman. However the way it is written is unique and full of intrigue and tension. Richard, Lydia and Fiona are far from perfect and they're complicated characters; it shows how flawed human beings are and how they can fall so low on the basis of obsession, jealously and dark feelings/thoughts. The rivalry and the escalation between both women was so perfect and when they encounter each other for the first time is shown in such a profound manner.
For a moment I convinced myself that there was a third woman involved and Fiona and Lydia was forced to work together. I was right about the latter, but I didn't expect the major plot twist at all. Very enjoyable and clever overall.
October 30, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this arc read!
A fast paced thriller with so many twists you never see coming!
Fiona meets Rich and is quickly consumed by how charming and handsome he is but he already has a wife.
Fiona underestimates Lydia, a wife who will do anything for her husband and won’t let Fiona take what’s hers. When both the women find out the truth everything changes and Rich is about to learn how dangerous it can be to wrong two women
My first Valerie Keogh read and I really enjoyed it, will definitely be reading more!
A fast paced thriller with so many twists you never see coming!
Fiona meets Rich and is quickly consumed by how charming and handsome he is but he already has a wife.
Fiona underestimates Lydia, a wife who will do anything for her husband and won’t let Fiona take what’s hers. When both the women find out the truth everything changes and Rich is about to learn how dangerous it can be to wrong two women
My first Valerie Keogh read and I really enjoyed it, will definitely be reading more!
November 3, 2025
Fiona meets Richard the man of her dreams but he's been married to Lydia for 40 years whose a stay at home wife with two children that had left home.
Nothing is going to stop Fiona from having Richard and making a life with him.
Richard has a secret and when Lydia and Fiona find out all hell is let loose.
A brilliant unexpected twist to the end
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC and I give my honest review
Nothing is going to stop Fiona from having Richard and making a life with him.
Richard has a secret and when Lydia and Fiona find out all hell is let loose.
A brilliant unexpected twist to the end
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC and I give my honest review
February 23, 2026
I liked how the book went back and forth through the different POVs. Although, the whiny attitude of one of the main characters was just too much. The selfishness of everyone was just unneeded and made everyone in the book, except the husband, unlikable. There wasn’t really any “twists” until the end and it wasn’t very good either. Could have been an easy quick read but, I had to push myself to read the book. I really did not like anyone in the book and couldn’t connect with either main character. I will stay away from this author going forward.
February 18, 2026
Always a fun ride with Valerie. Quick domestic thriller that keeps the pages turning.
October 23, 2025
Another great book from Valerie. This twisty story really captured my attention with plenty of dark characters. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
February 10, 2026
I enjoyed this story, however I did find it slow at times, maybe even repetitive. The ending felt rushed compared to the build up throughout the book. Overall an ok read.
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