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A Family Affair
Odele Gardia
. . . married to wealthy businessman Howard, is the hard-nosed matriarch of the family and will stop at nothing to achieve her goals. She’s ruthless in the boardroom and not afraid to lean on adversaries.
Sebastian Gardia . . . Odele’s brother and business partner. His wife, Freya, reveals that she is pregnant with their first child.
Elliot . . . the prodigal son, is returning from America with his girlfriend, intending to propose to her.
Business is booming, her brother is going to become a father, and her son is coming home – it’s surely a time to celebrate. But Odele is hiding a huge secret and is constantly looking over her shoulder. If the secret came out, it would destroy the family.
Jimmy Alder . . . booted out of the police force, has been paid to spy on the family. The discovery he makes could have catastrophic consequences for them all.
A dysfunctional family, protectors of their power, wealth and each other, have no warning of the revelations about to erupt and the cost to their dynasty.
Sebastian Gardia . . . Odele’s brother and business partner. His wife, Freya, reveals that she is pregnant with their first child.
Elliot . . . the prodigal son, is returning from America with his girlfriend, intending to propose to her.
Business is booming, her brother is going to become a father, and her son is coming home – it’s surely a time to celebrate. But Odele is hiding a huge secret and is constantly looking over her shoulder. If the secret came out, it would destroy the family.
Jimmy Alder . . . booted out of the police force, has been paid to spy on the family. The discovery he makes could have catastrophic consequences for them all.
A dysfunctional family, protectors of their power, wealth and each other, have no warning of the revelations about to erupt and the cost to their dynasty.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2025
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 28, 2025
Good concept but not that thrilling
A good concept and well written, regardless of a couple of typographical errors, but the development of the storyline wasn’t that gripping or interesting.
I love stories around dysfunctional families, but I didn’t find the plot that thrilling or even remarkable. It was quite ordinary, even the twists, which mostly happens after 90% in.
The characters were too shallow and I did not care for anyone. The conclusion was rushed and chaotic.
I don’t think I was the right audience for this kind of crime fiction.
This was my first book y this author.
I only picked it because the author is part of a book group that I follow on Facebook and because I liked the cover (not the common
A good concept and well written, regardless of a couple of typographical errors, but the development of the storyline wasn’t that gripping or interesting.
I love stories around dysfunctional families, but I didn’t find the plot that thrilling or even remarkable. It was quite ordinary, even the twists, which mostly happens after 90% in.
The characters were too shallow and I did not care for anyone. The conclusion was rushed and chaotic.
I don’t think I was the right audience for this kind of crime fiction.
This was my first book y this author.
I only picked it because the author is part of a book group that I follow on Facebook and because I liked the cover (not the common
December 5, 2025
And the tension mounts to a volcanic explosion of emotions ... A Family Affair, written by Joy Wood, is a mind-bending, dark novel that follows a family and their flawed lives. The book flows at a relentless pace, holding you in your seat as each chapter builds tension within the dysfunctional family.
Wood knows how to dig beneath the skin of her character to draw out simmering emotions deep within. The characters are well fleshed out, compelling the reader to become deeply immersed in their vulnerabilities and the nefarious manipulations of some, knowing a head-on collision is bound to happen.
Wood has woven a tale of deceit, lust, and power. It crackles with tension, and for thirsty thriller-seekers, this book will satisfy. Woods is a masterful storyteller, and wow, what a gripping end! A five-star character-driven thriller you won't want to put down!
Wood knows how to dig beneath the skin of her character to draw out simmering emotions deep within. The characters are well fleshed out, compelling the reader to become deeply immersed in their vulnerabilities and the nefarious manipulations of some, knowing a head-on collision is bound to happen.
Wood has woven a tale of deceit, lust, and power. It crackles with tension, and for thirsty thriller-seekers, this book will satisfy. Woods is a masterful storyteller, and wow, what a gripping end! A five-star character-driven thriller you won't want to put down!
November 30, 2025
Such a fantastic read, I just couldn’t stop turning the pages and definitely read for longer than I should, but it was an addictive read. The synopsis does a great job of mentioning the key characters, but I would never have anticipated the depth of the twists in this thriller.
Odele Gardia and her husband seem to have a dream life. Both are successful in their respective businesses, and they are keen to stay ahead of the proverbial Joneses, but at what cost? Odele is ruthless and determined, a veritable force to be reckoned with. There was nothing about either character that I liked, but they made for an interesting storyline.
Sebastian was the epitome of a spoiled rich boy. Yes, he worked in the business he shared with his sister, but he still had a strong sense of entitlement and believed he could get away with anything. His wife, Freya, was the antithesis of his narcissistic ways and a pleasure to get to know. Despite her wealthy marriage, she remained grounded and made it very clear from the start that she would have no tolerance for liars. I really liked Freya; she was a breath of fresh air and someone that I would want to be friends with. Her friendship with her nephew, Elliot, was a warm connection and lovely to follow.
The other character I warmed to was Jimmy Alder, a disgraced police officer. Jimmy’s story arc was refreshing, and I would welcome another chance to see how his life turns out. He’s not averse to snooping but still maintains a moral code, which, despite having grey edges, remained driven by his love for his daughter and loyalty to his wife.
There are plenty of twists to keep the excitement at a high level, most of which I didn’t see coming. I can heartily recommend this book; it’s an absolute cracker!
Odele Gardia and her husband seem to have a dream life. Both are successful in their respective businesses, and they are keen to stay ahead of the proverbial Joneses, but at what cost? Odele is ruthless and determined, a veritable force to be reckoned with. There was nothing about either character that I liked, but they made for an interesting storyline.
Sebastian was the epitome of a spoiled rich boy. Yes, he worked in the business he shared with his sister, but he still had a strong sense of entitlement and believed he could get away with anything. His wife, Freya, was the antithesis of his narcissistic ways and a pleasure to get to know. Despite her wealthy marriage, she remained grounded and made it very clear from the start that she would have no tolerance for liars. I really liked Freya; she was a breath of fresh air and someone that I would want to be friends with. Her friendship with her nephew, Elliot, was a warm connection and lovely to follow.
The other character I warmed to was Jimmy Alder, a disgraced police officer. Jimmy’s story arc was refreshing, and I would welcome another chance to see how his life turns out. He’s not averse to snooping but still maintains a moral code, which, despite having grey edges, remained driven by his love for his daughter and loyalty to his wife.
There are plenty of twists to keep the excitement at a high level, most of which I didn’t see coming. I can heartily recommend this book; it’s an absolute cracker!
December 6, 2025
3.5 stars
I actually really enjoyed this book as I was reading. It’s told in multiple perspectives and each perspective is distinct enough that it was clear whose perspective we were reading.
The plot was engaging and certainly there were twists that I did not see coming.
The ending disappointed me a bit though. It came out of nowhere and without any resolution. For me it left too many of the plot lines open - unless the author was positioning us for a sequel.
I actually really enjoyed this book as I was reading. It’s told in multiple perspectives and each perspective is distinct enough that it was clear whose perspective we were reading.
The plot was engaging and certainly there were twists that I did not see coming.
The ending disappointed me a bit though. It came out of nowhere and without any resolution. For me it left too many of the plot lines open - unless the author was positioning us for a sequel.
December 7, 2025
What a heart pumping nail biter. I couldn’t put it down. The characters are so realistic and relatable. I didn’t see the twist coming!!! This would make a fantastic movie.
December 8, 2025
Have to admit I’m always excited to read a new release from one of my favourite authors, and they are plentiful. I have become addicted to Joy Wood’s writing style, presentation and fine details. A Family Affair is a title that also appeals to me so to say the least I was looking forward to learning about the wonderful characters and their life’s paths to follow.
Immediately I’m bowled over with Freya Gardia’s news. A perfect gift for husband, Sebastion when she reveals she is pregnant for the first, and long-awaited time. But a mysterious happening sets Freya thinking in a most suspicious way. The author sets the seeds and soon introduces Jimmy Alder, an x copper, kicked out of the force, who’s desperate to get work again and takes on a spy roll in the family. Oh, my goodness now I have two concerning plots to follow. And just when you think you are getting to know the characters another one slots in. I must say I don’t know who to worry about the most in this family. Seb’s sister, Odele and business partner is also in the mix, the one to keep your eye on with her stop at nothing attitude to get what she wants. Gosh, she even shocked me. Then there’s son, Elliot turning up with a proposal up his sleeve.
Without giving too much away, Joy Wood has a unique way of delivering each delightful scene with fine detail painting a perfect picture in mind’s eye of believable characters acting out as they tell the story, filled with emotion, tension and much more. To me, this is a phenomenal professional way of portraying so may story plots at the same time giving me not a minute to drift away, soaking up my heart. The ending is perfectly unpredictable, in every way, and as the story unfolds I’m kept in suspense throughout. Not too much time to make coffee. If you want to live life to full for a few hours there’s nothing stopping you.
Immediately I’m bowled over with Freya Gardia’s news. A perfect gift for husband, Sebastion when she reveals she is pregnant for the first, and long-awaited time. But a mysterious happening sets Freya thinking in a most suspicious way. The author sets the seeds and soon introduces Jimmy Alder, an x copper, kicked out of the force, who’s desperate to get work again and takes on a spy roll in the family. Oh, my goodness now I have two concerning plots to follow. And just when you think you are getting to know the characters another one slots in. I must say I don’t know who to worry about the most in this family. Seb’s sister, Odele and business partner is also in the mix, the one to keep your eye on with her stop at nothing attitude to get what she wants. Gosh, she even shocked me. Then there’s son, Elliot turning up with a proposal up his sleeve.
Without giving too much away, Joy Wood has a unique way of delivering each delightful scene with fine detail painting a perfect picture in mind’s eye of believable characters acting out as they tell the story, filled with emotion, tension and much more. To me, this is a phenomenal professional way of portraying so may story plots at the same time giving me not a minute to drift away, soaking up my heart. The ending is perfectly unpredictable, in every way, and as the story unfolds I’m kept in suspense throughout. Not too much time to make coffee. If you want to live life to full for a few hours there’s nothing stopping you.
December 11, 2025
A Family Affair is another action-packed story from talented author, Joy Wood, who has become a firm favourite of mine. As the title suggests, this is a family drama, but by no means the usual kind.
The book gets off to a fine start with a dramatic prologue that immediately sucks the reader in. The blurb says it all without the need to expand here. Suffice to say that it’s a fast paced thriller that constantly keeps the reader on edge. There is real depth to a range of strong characters, good and bad, Odelle Gardia the most odious of them all.
It came as no surprise to find a forceful woman like Odelle taking centre stage, Ms Wood being very adept at creating protagonists who will stop at nothing in order to achieve their desires.
There is no shortage of surprises in this fascinating tale, made even more intriguing with the thread that involves Jimmy Alder - ex-policeman whose family background is in complete contrast to the rich and powerful Gardia clan. To add to the mix, bound up in this murder/suspense lies a love story - something for thriller fans and romantics alike. The tension builds to an exciting climax and, as always, the author takes care of any loose ends to reward the reader with a gratifying conclusion.
Family Affair is extremely well-written and the best of Joy Wood’s work I’ve had the pleasure to read.
The book gets off to a fine start with a dramatic prologue that immediately sucks the reader in. The blurb says it all without the need to expand here. Suffice to say that it’s a fast paced thriller that constantly keeps the reader on edge. There is real depth to a range of strong characters, good and bad, Odelle Gardia the most odious of them all.
It came as no surprise to find a forceful woman like Odelle taking centre stage, Ms Wood being very adept at creating protagonists who will stop at nothing in order to achieve their desires.
There is no shortage of surprises in this fascinating tale, made even more intriguing with the thread that involves Jimmy Alder - ex-policeman whose family background is in complete contrast to the rich and powerful Gardia clan. To add to the mix, bound up in this murder/suspense lies a love story - something for thriller fans and romantics alike. The tension builds to an exciting climax and, as always, the author takes care of any loose ends to reward the reader with a gratifying conclusion.
Family Affair is extremely well-written and the best of Joy Wood’s work I’ve had the pleasure to read.
November 25, 2025
Odele Gardia is married to Howard, they are both wealthy and own their own businesses.
Odele runs Gardia and Gardia estate agents with her brother, Sebastian.
Elliot is Odele’s son, he’s been living in America after being diagnosed with cancer. He’s coming home and bringing his girlfriend, Jade.
Sebastian is married to Freya, who has just found out that she’s pregnant after years of trying.
Jimmy Alder has been booted out of the Met after being fitted up by a so-called colleague. His young daughter has needed hospital treatment and is struggling again.
We follow all of their lives in this story, including the good and bad.
My goodness, what an action-packed story this is! There are many twists to each of the characters’ lives, some that I did see coming, but most of them surprised me.
The storytelling is sublime, and the author gets the emotional content just right for each character.
I would love for this to become a series.
An intense and dark story that kept me glued to my seat.
I would love for this to become part of a series.
Odele runs Gardia and Gardia estate agents with her brother, Sebastian.
Elliot is Odele’s son, he’s been living in America after being diagnosed with cancer. He’s coming home and bringing his girlfriend, Jade.
Sebastian is married to Freya, who has just found out that she’s pregnant after years of trying.
Jimmy Alder has been booted out of the Met after being fitted up by a so-called colleague. His young daughter has needed hospital treatment and is struggling again.
We follow all of their lives in this story, including the good and bad.
My goodness, what an action-packed story this is! There are many twists to each of the characters’ lives, some that I did see coming, but most of them surprised me.
The storytelling is sublime, and the author gets the emotional content just right for each character.
I would love for this to become a series.
An intense and dark story that kept me glued to my seat.
I would love for this to become part of a series.
December 6, 2025
Family as an institution can be a wonderful thing but, in this, it's quite the opposite.
This particular family has a few skeletons in the closet and it's all unravelling for them all now.
Freya is the one I felt most comfortable with. The mess isn't her fault and she's muddling through the best she can. I guessed who was the cause of her separation early on but needed it to play out because the 'why' wasn't quite obvious although it does seem a classic reason! Sad really as this shows the dark side of people who you'd expect to be better.
Seb and his sister aren't great people. The more we go on the more we see the 'real' them. They are self-serving and irritated me!! Books are good if they can leave you angry, happy or laughing at the end 😆
Enjoyed this and liked how the short sharp chapters with character changes helped build suspense while keeping momentum
This particular family has a few skeletons in the closet and it's all unravelling for them all now.
Freya is the one I felt most comfortable with. The mess isn't her fault and she's muddling through the best she can. I guessed who was the cause of her separation early on but needed it to play out because the 'why' wasn't quite obvious although it does seem a classic reason! Sad really as this shows the dark side of people who you'd expect to be better.
Seb and his sister aren't great people. The more we go on the more we see the 'real' them. They are self-serving and irritated me!! Books are good if they can leave you angry, happy or laughing at the end 😆
Enjoyed this and liked how the short sharp chapters with character changes helped build suspense while keeping momentum
November 1, 2025
The book was rather good. I loved the plot and it’s conclusion. The characters objective lined up well with the plot. The characters all were interesting and played a futile role to the story. The characters helped the story seem real while reading. The dialogue was mature, clear and understanding. The action was exciting and electric. The emotional aspects of the characters were clearly defined through the wording of the narrative. The suspense was gripping and mysterious. The anticipation of tracking the Villain was well scripted and revealed. I enjoyed the book. I thought that it was a wonderful read that attracted my imagination in so many ways.
November 27, 2025
She still had one gift left to give...
Odele Gardia has it all.
With the business booming, her brother going to be a father, and her son is coming home from America.
But a big secret is leaning over her shoulder.
Jimmy Alder is involved and payed to spy out Odele by her husband Howard, and when that secret comes out it is going to destroy this family for good.
A slap bang wallop read, this book has the lot, infidelity, betrayal, a gift for life stuffed out.
A dysfunctional family like no other, not even wealth.
To have it all, to gain trust, to have it all gone, the author has gone all out with this book, its a smasher unputdownable read.
Odele Gardia has it all.
With the business booming, her brother going to be a father, and her son is coming home from America.
But a big secret is leaning over her shoulder.
Jimmy Alder is involved and payed to spy out Odele by her husband Howard, and when that secret comes out it is going to destroy this family for good.
A slap bang wallop read, this book has the lot, infidelity, betrayal, a gift for life stuffed out.
A dysfunctional family like no other, not even wealth.
To have it all, to gain trust, to have it all gone, the author has gone all out with this book, its a smasher unputdownable read.
December 2, 2025
Oh my goodness this book is simply delicious, I devoured it. Its a romantic crime thriller and slightly outside my normal genres but I could not get enough of this book. The families need to protect their wealth and power added a layer of thrilling tension that made me question who was Odele able to truly trust and what would happen if they deemed you more of a threat than a ally. I really enjoyed reading the character of Jimmy, him being an undercover spy gave an additional twist that I loved reading
January 5, 2026
In the style of Brecht, a very brief prologue tells you there will be a bloodbath in a family home but when? Where? Who will survive? Both the knowledge and the unknown create tension and an edge to the story, through forbidden romance and unsavoury characters doing unspeakable things, to the final reckoning, in this romantic drama. Bravo Joy Wood. I have not read her novels before but now I want to work my way backwards and read them all, particularly the previous, for which she was awarded RNA Romantic Crime Thriller Award 2025.
November 26, 2025
A Family Affair by Joy Wood is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that captivated me from the very first page. The characters are so real and relatable, and the story explores the complexities of family relationships with sensitivity and depth. Wood's writing is both heartfelt and authentic, making it impossible to put down. I was moved by every twist and turn, and highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a compelling family drama.
December 7, 2025
A Family Affair, by Joy Wood.
This is a well-written, immersive drama. A Family Affair, by talented author, Joy Wood, ticked all the boxes for suspense, plot twists, and hosting a wide range of emotional turmoil.
With strong characters, ruthless underhand dealings, this book has it all. A family drama that intertwines business, adultery, love and treachery, will have you on the edge of your seat.
Enjoyed this powerful drama.
This is a well-written, immersive drama. A Family Affair, by talented author, Joy Wood, ticked all the boxes for suspense, plot twists, and hosting a wide range of emotional turmoil.
With strong characters, ruthless underhand dealings, this book has it all. A family drama that intertwines business, adultery, love and treachery, will have you on the edge of your seat.
Enjoyed this powerful drama.
January 7, 2026
A tangle like no other
This story is so tangled up with some who do anything for money, some who have very selfish wants rather than needs, and evildoers mixed in with those who actually love humanity. Passionate love permeates the soul. The story ties up almost perfectly, except for one man whose daughter fought cancer, and a son with the true love of his life. Maybe this book has a book two coming?
This story is so tangled up with some who do anything for money, some who have very selfish wants rather than needs, and evildoers mixed in with those who actually love humanity. Passionate love permeates the soul. The story ties up almost perfectly, except for one man whose daughter fought cancer, and a son with the true love of his life. Maybe this book has a book two coming?
January 24, 2026
I really loved this brilliant story!! Full of twists and turns, it racks up the tension to a delicious degree!! It has a wonderful cast of characters, each with their own agenda, and is really well plotted, keeping me absolutely enthralled and wanting to know more! It’s pacy, intriguing and exciting, and really well written. Recommended!
December 5, 2025
When Freya Gardia tells husband Seb she is pregnant she doesn’t expect the rollercoaster of events that follows. His sister Odele, who is ruthless and domineering, will stop at nothing to protect the family business and is very much an ‘always right’ sort of person. However she has a huge secret and if discovered her world is in danger of coming crashing down around her. There is also the matter of ex policeman Jimmy Alder who is being paid to spy on the family…… I so loved the plot, the twist and turns and thought that this had no obvious outcome. In my opinion the characters and plot were well thought out. Although fast paced at times it was easy to keep track of what was happening. All in all a very good read that kept me engaged and explored many aspects of family dynamics.
December 15, 2025
There isn’t anymore time, not for you”
Centring around the Gardia family, we get multiple POV from Odele, Freya (odeles brothers wife), Elliot (odeles son) and Jimmy - the ex copper Odele’s husband has hired to follow his wife.
Every family has drama but this is just jam packed with drama.
Elliot is returning home, freya is pregnant with her and Seb’s first child and the business Odele & Seb run is doing particular well. It doesn’t seem like it can go wrong. But then everything starts to fall apart. Elliot is arriving with Jade, a girl that Odele deems not good enough for her son
Freya has just found out about her husband’s affair
Their latest business deal isn’t going the way Odele likes. How much more will things fall?
First of all, I enjoyed this book. I loved the multiple POV but it did mean that I guessed pretty much most of the twists. There was one twist I never guessed would happen; it was nice to be surprised.
I hated the character of Odele. The lengths she goes to, to make sure it’s her way is sickening. I haven’t felt so much hate for a character for a while. This clearly shows how great a writer @joywoodauthor is. You hate a character but you want to keep reading.
I did feel there were a few loose threads I would like to have found out what happened the main one what happened with Jimmy, did he get his job back? It doesn’t take away from the book, it just means that we can form our own theories about what’s happened.
Centring around the Gardia family, we get multiple POV from Odele, Freya (odeles brothers wife), Elliot (odeles son) and Jimmy - the ex copper Odele’s husband has hired to follow his wife.
Every family has drama but this is just jam packed with drama.
Elliot is returning home, freya is pregnant with her and Seb’s first child and the business Odele & Seb run is doing particular well. It doesn’t seem like it can go wrong. But then everything starts to fall apart. Elliot is arriving with Jade, a girl that Odele deems not good enough for her son
Freya has just found out about her husband’s affair
Their latest business deal isn’t going the way Odele likes. How much more will things fall?
First of all, I enjoyed this book. I loved the multiple POV but it did mean that I guessed pretty much most of the twists. There was one twist I never guessed would happen; it was nice to be surprised.
I hated the character of Odele. The lengths she goes to, to make sure it’s her way is sickening. I haven’t felt so much hate for a character for a while. This clearly shows how great a writer @joywoodauthor is. You hate a character but you want to keep reading.
I did feel there were a few loose threads I would like to have found out what happened the main one what happened with Jimmy, did he get his job back? It doesn’t take away from the book, it just means that we can form our own theories about what’s happened.
December 14, 2025
A real page turner which kept me hooked from the beginning until the explosive ending which I didn’t see coming.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews