What do you think?
Rate this book
The Second Wife #1
The Second Wife
If you want to live, you must let go of the past...
Twenty-eight-year-old Psychologist, Alisha Dimarchi, is abducted by an obsessed client and imprisoned in his Pakistani compound for over two years. Forced to change her name and live as his second wife, her life is filled with trauma and heartbreak. Thrust into a world of violence and oppression, Ally must fight not only to keep herself alive but to protect the lives of the people she now considers family. At night, she retreats into her memories of the only man she has ever loved – a man she believes no longer loves her.
Thirty-four-year-old handsome surgeon, David Dimarchi, has spent the last two years mourning the disappearance of his wife. After a painful and isolated existence, he begins the process of healing. It is then that he is visited by a stranger, who informs him that Ally is very much alive and needs his help. In a desperate attempt to save her, David enlists the help of a mercenary. Together they find themselves in the center of more than just a rescue mission. Will he be able to reach her in time and if he does, will she still want him?
Twenty-eight-year-old Psychologist, Alisha Dimarchi, is abducted by an obsessed client and imprisoned in his Pakistani compound for over two years. Forced to change her name and live as his second wife, her life is filled with trauma and heartbreak. Thrust into a world of violence and oppression, Ally must fight not only to keep herself alive but to protect the lives of the people she now considers family. At night, she retreats into her memories of the only man she has ever loved – a man she believes no longer loves her.
Thirty-four-year-old handsome surgeon, David Dimarchi, has spent the last two years mourning the disappearance of his wife. After a painful and isolated existence, he begins the process of healing. It is then that he is visited by a stranger, who informs him that Ally is very much alive and needs his help. In a desperate attempt to save her, David enlists the help of a mercenary. Together they find themselves in the center of more than just a rescue mission. Will he be able to reach her in time and if he does, will she still want him?
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2015
414 people are currently reading
981 people want to read
About the author
Kishan Paul
10 books230 followersAward winning author of suspense/thrillers and romantic suspense, Kishan Paul's brain is always in the 'on' position.
Mother of two beautiful children and fur baby, she has been married to her best friend for over 22 years. With the help of supportive family and friends, she balances her family, a thriving counseling practice, and writing without sinking into insanity.
She can be found at:
www.kishanpaul.com
https://www.facebook.com/KishanPaulAu...
https://twitter.com/@kishan_paul
https://www.instagram.com/kishanpaula...
http://www.pinterest.com/kishanpaul
Sign up for her newsletter at:http://www.subscribepage.com/kishanpaul
If you'd like to join her street team, Kish's Collective, here's the sign up: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Kishs...
Mother of two beautiful children and fur baby, she has been married to her best friend for over 22 years. With the help of supportive family and friends, she balances her family, a thriving counseling practice, and writing without sinking into insanity.
She can be found at:
www.kishanpaul.com
https://www.facebook.com/KishanPaulAu...
https://twitter.com/@kishan_paul
https://www.instagram.com/kishanpaula...
http://www.pinterest.com/kishanpaul
Sign up for her newsletter at:http://www.subscribepage.com/kishanpaul
If you'd like to join her street team, Kish's Collective, here's the sign up: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Kishs...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
June 16, 2017
**** 4.5 Stars ****
Wow... this was not what I was expecting. I was a bit skeptical at first, but I'm so glad I got the opportunity to read The Second Wife. This was so heavy and emotional.
Alisha was abducted by a powerful terrorist. She was abused, tortured, and broken. The only thing that encouraged her to survive was thinking of her husband in Philadelphia.
"Your name is no longer Alisha. It is now Sara Irfani. You are the wife of Sayeed Irfani."
After two years in Pakistan, she was shown a picture of her husband being intimate with another woman. Her heart ripped into pieces, but she still found a way to stay strong.
David was pretty sure that his wife was dead... but he kept thinking what if...
What if Alisha was alive and she came back home?
He didn't make any changes in his apartment because he never let go of his hope. When he got word of her location, he promised himself that he will not lose her again.
There were a lot of moments where I almost cried because it felt like I was drowning. The story isn't your typical romance story. Alisha is so sexually and emotionally abused, she can't even touch David intimately. If you're looking for something that will give you butterflies in your stomach, this is not it.
Here is a link to watch the trailer.
Wow... this was not what I was expecting. I was a bit skeptical at first, but I'm so glad I got the opportunity to read The Second Wife. This was so heavy and emotional.
Alisha was abducted by a powerful terrorist. She was abused, tortured, and broken. The only thing that encouraged her to survive was thinking of her husband in Philadelphia.
"Your name is no longer Alisha. It is now Sara Irfani. You are the wife of Sayeed Irfani."
After two years in Pakistan, she was shown a picture of her husband being intimate with another woman. Her heart ripped into pieces, but she still found a way to stay strong.
David was pretty sure that his wife was dead... but he kept thinking what if...
What if Alisha was alive and she came back home?
He didn't make any changes in his apartment because he never let go of his hope. When he got word of her location, he promised himself that he will not lose her again.
There were a lot of moments where I almost cried because it felt like I was drowning. The story isn't your typical romance story. Alisha is so sexually and emotionally abused, she can't even touch David intimately. If you're looking for something that will give you butterflies in your stomach, this is not it.
Here is a link to watch the trailer.
October 4, 2015
Of all the books that I have read, my favorite are those that stick with me after I have finished. You know those books right? The ones that make you wonder, envision, try to work out how the ending happened, dissect any and all clues you may have missed? Well The Second Wife is one of those amazing stories. Kishan Paul has hit a home-run with this suspenseful masterpiece!
I guess I wasn't entirely sure what I was getting myself into but lets put it this way. I started the book last night, at like 11:00 pm. I intended to just open it, make sure it loaded alright and then go to bed. Well 2 hours later I had to pull myself away from my Kindle so I could get some sleep, only to wake up and pick the story right back up. I finished early this afternoon. I could not put this book down! I was completely absorbed and what a story to get sucked into. The writing was so fantastic and the details so rich that I felt like I was there. Now mind, this is a suspense novel and what comes with that is the whole "on the edge of your seat" feelings. I was so engrossed that anytime my boys interrupted me, you know with requests for food and such, it was like pulling teeth to get me out of the story. Wow what a ride!
I am not into spoilers so I'll give no specifics just my overall impressions of the story which was that it was amazing and so powerful that my heart ached in places, I wanted to cry at times, I raged and I cheered in others. It is dark and scary at times, it is a story of survival, taking your life back, sacrifice and enduring. I almost needed a drink after it was over because I was so invested. I love stories like that, I really do. Kishan has wonderful details. Not only are the physical descriptions there, so that you can really envision the characters, the surrounding etc. but their emotions are felt by the reader. You root for some, hate on others and feel their feelings. Simply awesome. I applaud her for keeping the it real. The subject matter is sensitive and instead of sugar coating it, she made it realistic and for a fiction novel, this was refreshing.
I would highly recommend this story, it was amazing, griping and moving. A fantastic read!
~ Amy
I received an ARC for an honest review
I guess I wasn't entirely sure what I was getting myself into but lets put it this way. I started the book last night, at like 11:00 pm. I intended to just open it, make sure it loaded alright and then go to bed. Well 2 hours later I had to pull myself away from my Kindle so I could get some sleep, only to wake up and pick the story right back up. I finished early this afternoon. I could not put this book down! I was completely absorbed and what a story to get sucked into. The writing was so fantastic and the details so rich that I felt like I was there. Now mind, this is a suspense novel and what comes with that is the whole "on the edge of your seat" feelings. I was so engrossed that anytime my boys interrupted me, you know with requests for food and such, it was like pulling teeth to get me out of the story. Wow what a ride!
I am not into spoilers so I'll give no specifics just my overall impressions of the story which was that it was amazing and so powerful that my heart ached in places, I wanted to cry at times, I raged and I cheered in others. It is dark and scary at times, it is a story of survival, taking your life back, sacrifice and enduring. I almost needed a drink after it was over because I was so invested. I love stories like that, I really do. Kishan has wonderful details. Not only are the physical descriptions there, so that you can really envision the characters, the surrounding etc. but their emotions are felt by the reader. You root for some, hate on others and feel their feelings. Simply awesome. I applaud her for keeping the it real. The subject matter is sensitive and instead of sugar coating it, she made it realistic and for a fiction novel, this was refreshing.
I would highly recommend this story, it was amazing, griping and moving. A fantastic read!
~ Amy
I received an ARC for an honest review
March 6, 2016
Client From Hell
Kishan Paul shows her range as an author in this psychological thriller set in Pakistan. Her debut novel Blind Love was a contemporary romance with a hint of suspense. The Second Wife is a full-on thriller with a hint of romance.
Ally is a psychologist happily married to surgeon David in Philadelphia. She has no idea that one of her psychotherapy clients, Sayeed, is an arms dealer hell bent on having her as his wife. He abducts her and steals her away to Pakistan where he forces her to become his second wife (love the title, by the way). This story line is about as horrifying as it can get for any psychologist--for any woman, really.
Sayeed is one of the most vile villains I've met. I cringed every time Ally mentions his sour breath or groping hands. I wanted to kill him.
Meanwhile, Ally's husband David is going crazy from grief. When a man approaches David with an offer to help his wife, he'll risk everything to get her back.
The story feels gritty and real. There's no easy happy-ever-after when you're ripped from your home and repeatedly raped and beaten. But there is a peek into Ally's resilience, and keen psychological insight into the effects of trauma:
"This emotionless, not-needing-anyone kind of person you're truing to be is probably how you survived, and I get that. But I know you and no matter what you say, you're not getting rid of me."
I loved the characters of Ally and Nasif, as well as the intriguing backstory behind a suicide bombing.
Well done, Kishan!
Kishan Paul shows her range as an author in this psychological thriller set in Pakistan. Her debut novel Blind Love was a contemporary romance with a hint of suspense. The Second Wife is a full-on thriller with a hint of romance.
Ally is a psychologist happily married to surgeon David in Philadelphia. She has no idea that one of her psychotherapy clients, Sayeed, is an arms dealer hell bent on having her as his wife. He abducts her and steals her away to Pakistan where he forces her to become his second wife (love the title, by the way). This story line is about as horrifying as it can get for any psychologist--for any woman, really.
Sayeed is one of the most vile villains I've met. I cringed every time Ally mentions his sour breath or groping hands. I wanted to kill him.
Meanwhile, Ally's husband David is going crazy from grief. When a man approaches David with an offer to help his wife, he'll risk everything to get her back.
The story feels gritty and real. There's no easy happy-ever-after when you're ripped from your home and repeatedly raped and beaten. But there is a peek into Ally's resilience, and keen psychological insight into the effects of trauma:
"This emotionless, not-needing-anyone kind of person you're truing to be is probably how you survived, and I get that. But I know you and no matter what you say, you're not getting rid of me."
I loved the characters of Ally and Nasif, as well as the intriguing backstory behind a suicide bombing.
Well done, Kishan!
November 3, 2015
Gabi's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
This book Gripped me tight and didn’t let go. I am still tingly thinking about this book after I’ve read it. This book was offered to me by one of my fellow reviewers. She knew I liked darker reads and thought I would be a good fit for this book. I seriously could not thank her enough when I was finished. This book was amazing in so many ways.
This book is scary for me, with the times we live in this book could be someone’s legitimate nightmare. It involves so many real day issues and fears and concerns and was so realistic I can only imagine how these scenes came to be…
This book had a Heroine Ally/Sara that was so realistic. She’s thrown into a nightmare and is definitely strong and perseveres but she shows her weakness.
Who wouldn’t have panic attacks, depression or thoughts of just ending it all in the face of what she faced. The mind control and manipulations put in place against her, the physical and mental blows she sustained would destroy people and make them build themselves into something or someone new and this book showed that through the good and bad it took her to get to be the strong person at the end. David her husband shows the love and strength of a true Hero but he is human and this book was written to show the “human” side of human trafficking. There was no hero without flaws, there was no allies without reason or personal gain for what they did to help or hurt the situation. Almost every player in the book had reasons for what they did and you as a reader could not blame them and in some instances could not judge their decisions based on what they faced.
This book shows love and patience wins but the cost is so great you almost have to question if the prize is actually winning at the end?
I cannot think of another book I’ve read this year that moved me, made me gasp or still make me full of emotions days after reading it. So thank you Kishan Paul, this book was my favorite and will be one I will re-read often to feel the feels and emotions again.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
This book Gripped me tight and didn’t let go. I am still tingly thinking about this book after I’ve read it. This book was offered to me by one of my fellow reviewers. She knew I liked darker reads and thought I would be a good fit for this book. I seriously could not thank her enough when I was finished. This book was amazing in so many ways.
This book is scary for me, with the times we live in this book could be someone’s legitimate nightmare. It involves so many real day issues and fears and concerns and was so realistic I can only imagine how these scenes came to be…
This book had a Heroine Ally/Sara that was so realistic. She’s thrown into a nightmare and is definitely strong and perseveres but she shows her weakness.
Who wouldn’t have panic attacks, depression or thoughts of just ending it all in the face of what she faced. The mind control and manipulations put in place against her, the physical and mental blows she sustained would destroy people and make them build themselves into something or someone new and this book showed that through the good and bad it took her to get to be the strong person at the end. David her husband shows the love and strength of a true Hero but he is human and this book was written to show the “human” side of human trafficking. There was no hero without flaws, there was no allies without reason or personal gain for what they did to help or hurt the situation. Almost every player in the book had reasons for what they did and you as a reader could not blame them and in some instances could not judge their decisions based on what they faced.
This book shows love and patience wins but the cost is so great you almost have to question if the prize is actually winning at the end?
I cannot think of another book I’ve read this year that moved me, made me gasp or still make me full of emotions days after reading it. So thank you Kishan Paul, this book was my favorite and will be one I will re-read often to feel the feels and emotions again.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
September 30, 2015
This is one of those books that will grab your attention and not leave you alone, it stays with you and makes you think. This is about a woman who was kidnapped and taken to Pakistan to live as the second wife to her kidnapper. No longer Ally, she must become Sara in order to survive her ordeal. As Sara learns how to cope with her new curcumstances and surroundings, she discovers she has people who care for her and are doing what they can to protect her.
Dave, Ally's husband, still can't believe she's gone. One day he gets a visit from someone claiming to know the whereabouts of Ally. This stranger says Dave must hurry, Ally's time is short. With the help of a mercenary, Dave sets out to save his wife and in the process save the world from a terrorist.
The story is seamlessly told from Ally/Sara and Dave's points of view. this enhances the story and gives it more depth. I felt as thoguh I could feel the angst, fear, and excitement as I was reading, Ms, Paul has done a great job of putting the reading right in the middle of what's going on. This is the first book of Ms. Paul's that I have read and it won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
I received an advanced reader's copy from the author in exchange for an honest reveiw.
Dave, Ally's husband, still can't believe she's gone. One day he gets a visit from someone claiming to know the whereabouts of Ally. This stranger says Dave must hurry, Ally's time is short. With the help of a mercenary, Dave sets out to save his wife and in the process save the world from a terrorist.
The story is seamlessly told from Ally/Sara and Dave's points of view. this enhances the story and gives it more depth. I felt as thoguh I could feel the angst, fear, and excitement as I was reading, Ms, Paul has done a great job of putting the reading right in the middle of what's going on. This is the first book of Ms. Paul's that I have read and it won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
I received an advanced reader's copy from the author in exchange for an honest reveiw.
September 27, 2015
Kishan Paul’s writing shines in this beautifully written psychological thriller filled with heart-gripping emotion as the heroine unearths an inner strength she didn’t know she possessed.
October 28, 2015
wow wow wow, this book is even better than the first one. How would act if you were kidnapped and tortured for over 2 years. this is what happened to Alisha/Ali/Sara. there are all the same depending who you're important to. This woman suffered traumatically and found the strength to help others during this crisis in her life. This book explain in many details life as a prisoner in the middle east where woman have no voice what so ever. How about your husband when all this is happening do you move forward or do you live your life on hold. At the first opportunity of hope David leaves everything in search of his beloved wife with the knowledge she may never be the same woman he loved so much. Who do you trust in a situation such as this one when corruption, weapon trafficking , suicide bombers are surrounding you and what is at stake is bigger than you are. Alisha and David will come out victorious however will they ever be free of her kidnapper. Kishan Paul is a remarkable author. She keeps you on the edge and you don't want to put the book down until it's finish. You will cry, you will smile but most of all you will hope that she will find a happy ending. thank you Kishan Paul for such a wonderful book
October 1, 2015
Having read and reviewed Blind Love, I was thrilled when I had the opportunity to read an advance of her latest book. While the two books could not possibly be more different, I have tostay I absolutely loved this book. The Second Wife is a dark psychological thriller that may actually trouble some readers due to the intensity of the subject matter. The main character, Alisha, is kidnapped and held captive for over two years in Pakistan. Her captor is determined that she must bear him a son and actually claims her as is second wife. Meanwhile, her real husband is left to mourn his wife who has simply disappeared without a trace.
As much as I enjoyed her romance novel, I think Kishan Paul has created a riveting thriller that is even better.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
As much as I enjoyed her romance novel, I think Kishan Paul has created a riveting thriller that is even better.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2017
I read this book back in 2015 when it was first released, my thoughts on it hasn’t changed much at all. I will be redoing my review to incorporate my thoughts on the audio. I do have to add that this story is so different from the writing I am used to from this author it really delivers quite a push in so many ways. As the book takes off you will be going on an adventure with many twist and turns that will hold you on the edge making you want to cry, hold your breath and do a little cursing of your own. It is a wild ride of deceit, abuse, anger, hurt, pain, lose and adduction that will stay with you long after you put the audio/book down. I have only had one other audio affect me in the same way it too was just like The Second Wife both hold you spellbound giving you a listen you can’t put down.
I have never listened to any of Ms. Arserio’s work but was very delighted to find that I own a few of the books she narrator and can get the audio at a discount. What Ms. Arserio brings to the table is a delightful audio that holds you as spellbound as the author does. Her voice blends very well in this story really bring it to life making you feel you right in the room watching it happen and taking the fallout just as Alisha/Sarah is. There were not any background noises, no repeating of wording, if any breaks were taken I could not tell. I loved her accents that really make the story more believable. Her character voices are very smooth, interesting and really great. Her male voices really fit the characters as well as her female ones. You have no trouble knowing who is talking and just what they are feeling. I found myself pulling back as Ally went through her trials trying to hold on to anything that will help her get through to the next day. Have no doubts that this narrator really bring this story to life making it come alive in your mind. There are no words to tell you just how much her narration affected me making me feel just as if I was there looking in as the evil man takes his pleasure on a women he had no right to hold. I am totally blown away with her performance.
What the author brings to the table is an outstanding read of survival, getting even, taking back your life, facing your fears as you face your past which you have lost and learning to start over again when you do not know which way to turn. In my first review I said I can’t even image what Ally went through but after listening to the audio I felt every rape, hit etc she did. Not many things brings me to tears but as I write this I have tears in my eyes. I really didn’t know how much it affected me until I try to put in words my thoughts. What this audio does is put you in another’s person shoes living day to day in a country you do not knowing the language not having any friends to talk to, having people hate you for no other reason than you being there, you only a doctor you’re not sure of and a husband who isn't your husband that does cruel unspeakable things to you but at the same time believing you are there for his pleasure and you are happy about it, that your all lives are wonderful. Than to be taken, raped and beaten over and over again for little or no reason is just more than your mind can handle. Day after day watching an evil man using whatever he can to keep you in control letting him do what he wants, not trying to escape for fear of what he will do the ones you love.
Alisha is a sweet wonderful caring lady that gives so much of herself to everyone. She has/had a wonderful husband who adores her. A loving family that bring a smile to her face with their love. She has the best and everything any women could want until the day she walked outside and someone took her to a new country, killed people in front of her and became her worse nightmare. She prays for someone to come get her and take her home. She prays for the love of her life until the day she sees a picture and knows her life is over. She has nowhere to go, no one to love and no reason to live until the day she built her new family from those around her that are going through the same things she is. Will this nightmare ever end? Will she ever find a way out and a place to call hers?
David remembers it like it was yesterday even through it has been two years since the love of his life came up missing. He has turned over every stone, she is nowhere but in his dreams. Those wonderful dreams at night when he is asleep she comes to him he reaches out and touches her only to wake and find she is gone. After two long painful years he has found someone who can make him smile again. If she could only make him forget.....until the day a man came to him and said your wife is alive and is the second wife of another man. He leaves no stone unturned as he finds away to get to her and bring her home but will it be too late?
What made this such an outstanding listen/read for me is the plot and the writing style of this author and the way the narrator delivers each scene in her almost cold tones it makes chills rundown you spine. The audio adds so much really grabbing your attention and not letting it go until the last page. You will not want this story to end you will want to know what happens next, do they make it, will they be able to bring their selves out of the darkest time in their life or will the darkness pull them under?
This is a very believable plot with some wonderful caring characters. Some you will love and others you will want to kill yourself. If I could have gotten in the story I would have gladly have taken a few out. I was begging for the knife, a gun to be handed to me to just give me a few minutes with the ones that had taken her and changed that sweet smiling girl into a very cold person whose smiles never reaches her eyes, a person who bends to their will, giving others control. I promise she would be smiling from not only her eyes but her soul when I was done.
What I really like about this story is the author gives you all the fact without throwing them in your face. You know what happen and you know it is terrible but you do not read all the details. You can feel the pain of the victim as she is rape and beaten but it is told in a way that your mind can handle it. There are so many victims all because of one man who thinks he is better than anyone else that he deserves to have what he wants when he wants it. No one said no to him if they do he kills them or takes them. No one has been able to stop him. Alisha believes she can and will die trying, she has nothing to lose and nothing to live for. He must die, his evil must be stopped. There is many more beside her that have paid his price. She vows no more will die, no one will do anything against their will because of him, he will not take another and putting them through what he did her.
David isn't walking away he will make this man pay for what he has not only done to him but his wife, the women he adores, the love of his life. He will not leave Pakistani without her, no man will ever hurt his beloved Ally again, and those who have will pay dearly at his own hands. Now it becomes a fight to the death who will live and who will die.
This is one book I could not put down it held my interest like no other one has in awhile. There were times my mouth fell open my hand covered it. There were times I was close to tears as the author took me through the pages of hurt and pain. Many times I thought let me in a room with him and I will happily take him out. It has been a long time since a story has touched me so deep that I felt it all the way to my soul. I love the fact that it is told in a way that shouldn't trip any wires in your brain if you have been abused. It is a story you can relate to without having to read word for word what was done. This is one audio/book that will never get old it will always hold you spellbound as it did when you first read/listened to it. It is one you will want to listen to again and again. I think most who read this will not be able to walk away without being touched in some way. I know this review does not to justice to this book there are no words to say just how much it affected me, or what my feel are as you are taken to another place and another time living through your worst nightmare. I highly recommend you pick up The Second Wife and give it a read. I honestly can’t wait for the next book to come out in audio taking off where this one left off. It is a spellbound read as much as this one was.
I have never listened to any of Ms. Arserio’s work but was very delighted to find that I own a few of the books she narrator and can get the audio at a discount. What Ms. Arserio brings to the table is a delightful audio that holds you as spellbound as the author does. Her voice blends very well in this story really bring it to life making you feel you right in the room watching it happen and taking the fallout just as Alisha/Sarah is. There were not any background noises, no repeating of wording, if any breaks were taken I could not tell. I loved her accents that really make the story more believable. Her character voices are very smooth, interesting and really great. Her male voices really fit the characters as well as her female ones. You have no trouble knowing who is talking and just what they are feeling. I found myself pulling back as Ally went through her trials trying to hold on to anything that will help her get through to the next day. Have no doubts that this narrator really bring this story to life making it come alive in your mind. There are no words to tell you just how much her narration affected me making me feel just as if I was there looking in as the evil man takes his pleasure on a women he had no right to hold. I am totally blown away with her performance.
What the author brings to the table is an outstanding read of survival, getting even, taking back your life, facing your fears as you face your past which you have lost and learning to start over again when you do not know which way to turn. In my first review I said I can’t even image what Ally went through but after listening to the audio I felt every rape, hit etc she did. Not many things brings me to tears but as I write this I have tears in my eyes. I really didn’t know how much it affected me until I try to put in words my thoughts. What this audio does is put you in another’s person shoes living day to day in a country you do not knowing the language not having any friends to talk to, having people hate you for no other reason than you being there, you only a doctor you’re not sure of and a husband who isn't your husband that does cruel unspeakable things to you but at the same time believing you are there for his pleasure and you are happy about it, that your all lives are wonderful. Than to be taken, raped and beaten over and over again for little or no reason is just more than your mind can handle. Day after day watching an evil man using whatever he can to keep you in control letting him do what he wants, not trying to escape for fear of what he will do the ones you love.
Alisha is a sweet wonderful caring lady that gives so much of herself to everyone. She has/had a wonderful husband who adores her. A loving family that bring a smile to her face with their love. She has the best and everything any women could want until the day she walked outside and someone took her to a new country, killed people in front of her and became her worse nightmare. She prays for someone to come get her and take her home. She prays for the love of her life until the day she sees a picture and knows her life is over. She has nowhere to go, no one to love and no reason to live until the day she built her new family from those around her that are going through the same things she is. Will this nightmare ever end? Will she ever find a way out and a place to call hers?
David remembers it like it was yesterday even through it has been two years since the love of his life came up missing. He has turned over every stone, she is nowhere but in his dreams. Those wonderful dreams at night when he is asleep she comes to him he reaches out and touches her only to wake and find she is gone. After two long painful years he has found someone who can make him smile again. If she could only make him forget.....until the day a man came to him and said your wife is alive and is the second wife of another man. He leaves no stone unturned as he finds away to get to her and bring her home but will it be too late?
What made this such an outstanding listen/read for me is the plot and the writing style of this author and the way the narrator delivers each scene in her almost cold tones it makes chills rundown you spine. The audio adds so much really grabbing your attention and not letting it go until the last page. You will not want this story to end you will want to know what happens next, do they make it, will they be able to bring their selves out of the darkest time in their life or will the darkness pull them under?
This is a very believable plot with some wonderful caring characters. Some you will love and others you will want to kill yourself. If I could have gotten in the story I would have gladly have taken a few out. I was begging for the knife, a gun to be handed to me to just give me a few minutes with the ones that had taken her and changed that sweet smiling girl into a very cold person whose smiles never reaches her eyes, a person who bends to their will, giving others control. I promise she would be smiling from not only her eyes but her soul when I was done.
What I really like about this story is the author gives you all the fact without throwing them in your face. You know what happen and you know it is terrible but you do not read all the details. You can feel the pain of the victim as she is rape and beaten but it is told in a way that your mind can handle it. There are so many victims all because of one man who thinks he is better than anyone else that he deserves to have what he wants when he wants it. No one said no to him if they do he kills them or takes them. No one has been able to stop him. Alisha believes she can and will die trying, she has nothing to lose and nothing to live for. He must die, his evil must be stopped. There is many more beside her that have paid his price. She vows no more will die, no one will do anything against their will because of him, he will not take another and putting them through what he did her.
David isn't walking away he will make this man pay for what he has not only done to him but his wife, the women he adores, the love of his life. He will not leave Pakistani without her, no man will ever hurt his beloved Ally again, and those who have will pay dearly at his own hands. Now it becomes a fight to the death who will live and who will die.
This is one book I could not put down it held my interest like no other one has in awhile. There were times my mouth fell open my hand covered it. There were times I was close to tears as the author took me through the pages of hurt and pain. Many times I thought let me in a room with him and I will happily take him out. It has been a long time since a story has touched me so deep that I felt it all the way to my soul. I love the fact that it is told in a way that shouldn't trip any wires in your brain if you have been abused. It is a story you can relate to without having to read word for word what was done. This is one audio/book that will never get old it will always hold you spellbound as it did when you first read/listened to it. It is one you will want to listen to again and again. I think most who read this will not be able to walk away without being touched in some way. I know this review does not to justice to this book there are no words to say just how much it affected me, or what my feel are as you are taken to another place and another time living through your worst nightmare. I highly recommend you pick up The Second Wife and give it a read. I honestly can’t wait for the next book to come out in audio taking off where this one left off. It is a spellbound read as much as this one was.
October 21, 2015
INTENSE.
That is the best way to describe The Second Wife. Although I found it in the Romance category on NetGalley, I think it is more accurate to call it a story of drama, action and suspense. I am an extremely picky reader, and if a book does not pull me in right away, I put it down and move on to something else. However, after just the first chapter, this story completely sucked me in and I could not turn the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen next.
As told in the blurb, Alisha Dimarchi is a young, beautiful, psychologist abducted and held against her will by a rich and powerful Middle-Eastern crime lord.The horrors and abuse that Ally must endure during her captivity are not for the faint of heart, but that is what makes this story so rich and believable. With nothing but her own intelligence and instincts to lead her, Ally finds a way to survive and adapt to her surroundings. In the process she is able to protect and save all but one of the few people that show her kindness and loyalty during her captivity.
Ally's husband, David, was devastated by her disappearance and has been living as a shell of a man for the past two years. Believing she is dead, he tries to move on and love again, but deep down inside he just can't get over her. When he is approached with news that she is still alive, he is filled with a combination of disbelief, hope, and all-consuming fear. Not knowing whom he can trust or how he can possibly get Ally away from one of the most dangerous men in the world, he risks everything to get her back.
I can not say enough how much I loved these characters and their story. The author uses extremely descriptive inner-dialogue and imagery, so that the reader feels like they are really there and the events are happening to them. I was able to FEEL everything the characters were feeling. It's rare to find a book that does not have any lulls at all, but I can honestly say that this book is one of the few. I found it absolutely un-put-down-able.
Although this is a complete story with resolution at the end, the author does leave an opening to maybe continue the story in another book. I will most definitely read the sequel if there ever is one.
***ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
That is the best way to describe The Second Wife. Although I found it in the Romance category on NetGalley, I think it is more accurate to call it a story of drama, action and suspense. I am an extremely picky reader, and if a book does not pull me in right away, I put it down and move on to something else. However, after just the first chapter, this story completely sucked me in and I could not turn the pages fast enough to find out what was going to happen next.
As told in the blurb, Alisha Dimarchi is a young, beautiful, psychologist abducted and held against her will by a rich and powerful Middle-Eastern crime lord.The horrors and abuse that Ally must endure during her captivity are not for the faint of heart, but that is what makes this story so rich and believable. With nothing but her own intelligence and instincts to lead her, Ally finds a way to survive and adapt to her surroundings. In the process she is able to protect and save all but one of the few people that show her kindness and loyalty during her captivity.
Ally's husband, David, was devastated by her disappearance and has been living as a shell of a man for the past two years. Believing she is dead, he tries to move on and love again, but deep down inside he just can't get over her. When he is approached with news that she is still alive, he is filled with a combination of disbelief, hope, and all-consuming fear. Not knowing whom he can trust or how he can possibly get Ally away from one of the most dangerous men in the world, he risks everything to get her back.
I can not say enough how much I loved these characters and their story. The author uses extremely descriptive inner-dialogue and imagery, so that the reader feels like they are really there and the events are happening to them. I was able to FEEL everything the characters were feeling. It's rare to find a book that does not have any lulls at all, but I can honestly say that this book is one of the few. I found it absolutely un-put-down-able.
Although this is a complete story with resolution at the end, the author does leave an opening to maybe continue the story in another book. I will most definitely read the sequel if there ever is one.
***ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.***
October 14, 2015
This book was gifted to me for a honest review, Thank you.
I was very excited to read this book and it did not disappoint. So much was going on and from beginning til the end you get to read this story about a woman who went through hell and came out of it. Alley was brave, she did not give up. You get this story of this woman who gets kidnapped and forced to be the second wife to this horrible man and endure horrible situations with this man, in another country for two years. Alley is no longer Alley she is Sara, and after two years of hell, she is a different person. She wants to protect the ones who have now become her family and will do anything to do so.
"He sat beside her. "Sara, you have every reason to believe I am a bad person. But I need you to understand, sometimes good people must do bad things." He paused for a response but she had none to give."
Then we get David the husband dealing with his missing wife for two years, wanting and trying to move on but not able to completely. Then out of no where in a old man, David comes to find out his wife is actually alive and he does everything to get her back. He risks his life and goes after her, with the help. We jump from past to present and to Alley's and David's point of views which was great.
Overall such a heart wrenching story of survival and love, beautifully written. Thank you.
I was very excited to read this book and it did not disappoint. So much was going on and from beginning til the end you get to read this story about a woman who went through hell and came out of it. Alley was brave, she did not give up. You get this story of this woman who gets kidnapped and forced to be the second wife to this horrible man and endure horrible situations with this man, in another country for two years. Alley is no longer Alley she is Sara, and after two years of hell, she is a different person. She wants to protect the ones who have now become her family and will do anything to do so.
"He sat beside her. "Sara, you have every reason to believe I am a bad person. But I need you to understand, sometimes good people must do bad things." He paused for a response but she had none to give."
Then we get David the husband dealing with his missing wife for two years, wanting and trying to move on but not able to completely. Then out of no where in a old man, David comes to find out his wife is actually alive and he does everything to get her back. He risks his life and goes after her, with the help. We jump from past to present and to Alley's and David's point of views which was great.
Overall such a heart wrenching story of survival and love, beautifully written. Thank you.
October 6, 2015
This story was exciting and scary all at the same time. Alisha is taken away from the only life she has known and sucked into a horror of a life. Trying to survive everyday of her hell, only opening up her heart to the children around her. She is most definitely a survivor and keeps herself strong to protect those she holds dear. When she thinks life can't get any worse things start tumbling down around her. David's love for Alisha is the only thing keeping him going on, even when he is at the worst moments of his life. This story brings out the awareness of sex trafficking and the all to realness of it. Kishan Paul sucked me in once again with her amazing story all the way to the end.
November 4, 2015
This ARC was provided and received in exchange for an honest review.
5 SUPRISING THE HELL OUTTA ME STARS
WOW! Where do I even begin to gush about this book? This story is a darker read and does have some elements that may be triggers for some readers including terroristic plots, plans, and actions; along with domestic violence, domestic terrorizing, kidnapping, and loss. It is not graphically erotic, but does have sexual situations. This story is a complete standalone novel told in alternating POV's and alternating places and time. But please don't let all that scare you off from this amazing story! You will not regret it.
Alisha aka Sarah is one of my favorite heroines! She is smart, strong and has a heart that is more concerned with those she cares about than herself. She goes through (a word I can't say on Amazon), and does it to try to keep others safe. She finds friends in the most unlikely places and she sees their heart in the mist of their circumstances, while anyone else would just see their actions or weakness. She thinks everyone in her old life has moved on and she is just trying to live as long a she can and still save those she must. Her husband tries his best to move on without her and on the outside he does, but on the inside he is unable to do so. He has a girlfriend that is manipulative and on a personal note, I think needs to trade places with Ally/Sara! I fell in love with Ally & David and was on the edge of my seat the entire ride. The monster of this story is truly a monster! He is a manipulative sadist! He loves to intimidate and enjoys fear and pain in his victims.
The intellect and intuition of the author was really good. She knew when to push and pull back to give you the right amount of suspense without giving away anything. Do not know from personal experience but she made the story seem real. No mistakes that I spotted in the story. She made you come to either love or hate, pity or care for the characters. Ms. Paul had me totally engrossed in the entire story! This one will not be forgotten and sit with me awhile. I really loved it.
5 SUPRISING THE HELL OUTTA ME STARS
WOW! Where do I even begin to gush about this book? This story is a darker read and does have some elements that may be triggers for some readers including terroristic plots, plans, and actions; along with domestic violence, domestic terrorizing, kidnapping, and loss. It is not graphically erotic, but does have sexual situations. This story is a complete standalone novel told in alternating POV's and alternating places and time. But please don't let all that scare you off from this amazing story! You will not regret it.
Alisha aka Sarah is one of my favorite heroines! She is smart, strong and has a heart that is more concerned with those she cares about than herself. She goes through (a word I can't say on Amazon), and does it to try to keep others safe. She finds friends in the most unlikely places and she sees their heart in the mist of their circumstances, while anyone else would just see their actions or weakness. She thinks everyone in her old life has moved on and she is just trying to live as long a she can and still save those she must. Her husband tries his best to move on without her and on the outside he does, but on the inside he is unable to do so. He has a girlfriend that is manipulative and on a personal note, I think needs to trade places with Ally/Sara! I fell in love with Ally & David and was on the edge of my seat the entire ride. The monster of this story is truly a monster! He is a manipulative sadist! He loves to intimidate and enjoys fear and pain in his victims.
The intellect and intuition of the author was really good. She knew when to push and pull back to give you the right amount of suspense without giving away anything. Do not know from personal experience but she made the story seem real. No mistakes that I spotted in the story. She made you come to either love or hate, pity or care for the characters. Ms. Paul had me totally engrossed in the entire story! This one will not be forgotten and sit with me awhile. I really loved it.
October 17, 2015
4.5 Stars
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book.
Adult content Warning; violence & rape
From page one Alisha Dimarchi is kidnapped and dragged into a frightening world in Pakistan that she knows nothing about. It is like she is pulled into the ocean and rarely able to come to the surface to breathe. She is under constant watch, but she is not the only one. Her husband Dave is being watched too. Sayeed Irfani, the man who had Ally taken, is a powerful man with allies around the globe. If she tries to fight, Dave will be killed. How will she survive while ensuring her husband's safety?
Kishan Paul takes an uncomfortable story and puts the reader right in the middle of it. You get attached to the characters. You feel their fear. How do you get out of an impossible situation without losing the ones you love?
It is an engaging thriller that takes hold and doesn't let you go. It is a book that stays with you long after the last page is read.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book.
Adult content Warning; violence & rape
From page one Alisha Dimarchi is kidnapped and dragged into a frightening world in Pakistan that she knows nothing about. It is like she is pulled into the ocean and rarely able to come to the surface to breathe. She is under constant watch, but she is not the only one. Her husband Dave is being watched too. Sayeed Irfani, the man who had Ally taken, is a powerful man with allies around the globe. If she tries to fight, Dave will be killed. How will she survive while ensuring her husband's safety?
Kishan Paul takes an uncomfortable story and puts the reader right in the middle of it. You get attached to the characters. You feel their fear. How do you get out of an impossible situation without losing the ones you love?
It is an engaging thriller that takes hold and doesn't let you go. It is a book that stays with you long after the last page is read.
October 9, 2015
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, Kishan Paul is an author to watch. I read her debut book, Blind Love when I was approved for an ARC on NetGalley, and immediately fell in love with her writing and her characters. She gives her characters a depth and complexity that is often lacking in romance novels. I’ve eagerly awaited a new book from this author for awhile, so imagine my excitement when The Second Wife appeared on my NetGalley dashboard; I don’t think I’ve ever been so anxious to be approved for a digital ARC. I may or may not have squealed in excitement when I saw it under my “Approved” tab, and I definitely consumed the entire book in one sitting. The Second Wife is a gripping suspense novel, filled with heart-wrenching pain and touchingly sweet romance. I thought it would be incredibly hard to top Blind Love, and I was right, but The Second Wife came incredibly close.
Read my full review here: https://theperksofmyquirks.wordpress....
Read my full review here: https://theperksofmyquirks.wordpress....
December 12, 2015
Wow! Just WOW!
I received this copy for a fair review and I am blown away! This book kept me up late, woke me up early. The characters were calling me to finish this story. It was heart wrenching and dramatic and quite a nail biter. I was in awe of the strength that Sara had and how this story came together. I am also impressed with how the author was sympathetic to the PTSD that Sara faced and how everyone was effected by this horrific thing that happens to women and children daily. I recommend this book highly!
I received this copy for a fair review and I am blown away! This book kept me up late, woke me up early. The characters were calling me to finish this story. It was heart wrenching and dramatic and quite a nail biter. I was in awe of the strength that Sara had and how this story came together. I am also impressed with how the author was sympathetic to the PTSD that Sara faced and how everyone was effected by this horrific thing that happens to women and children daily. I recommend this book highly!
October 26, 2015
WOW... I cannot immagine how she managed...
I was appalled with the treatment, but more so by the complete absense of humanity by the abductor.
What I mean is that he doesn't feel that he's doing anything wrong. For him all is normal and he really doens't understand why Alisha is unhappy!!!
It is a thing that make you shiver...
I was appalled with the treatment, but more so by the complete absense of humanity by the abductor.
What I mean is that he doesn't feel that he's doing anything wrong. For him all is normal and he really doens't understand why Alisha is unhappy!!!
It is a thing that make you shiver...
February 22, 2018
Don't start at night if you have an early morning!
Make sure you have a stress ball and a box of tissues ready before reading this one.
Intense. Gripping. Dark. Sensual. Heartbreakingly real. I don't do dark, but I'm glad I took a chance with "The Second Wife." I found myself on a masterful rollercoaster of an emotional ride. I cheered. I cried. I railed. I loved. Oh, how I love these two characters! I appreciate Ms Paul bringing the very real issue of human trafficking into the forefront.
This could really happen. It probably HAS happened!
This book is NOT for the faint of heart and you may find yourself needing to step away from some of the gut-wrenching things that happen to and between Alisha and David. The author's attention to detail and use of rich imagery makes this book not only emotional but well written.
#winwin
Make sure you have a stress ball and a box of tissues ready before reading this one.
Intense. Gripping. Dark. Sensual. Heartbreakingly real. I don't do dark, but I'm glad I took a chance with "The Second Wife." I found myself on a masterful rollercoaster of an emotional ride. I cheered. I cried. I railed. I loved. Oh, how I love these two characters! I appreciate Ms Paul bringing the very real issue of human trafficking into the forefront.
This could really happen. It probably HAS happened!
This book is NOT for the faint of heart and you may find yourself needing to step away from some of the gut-wrenching things that happen to and between Alisha and David. The author's attention to detail and use of rich imagery makes this book not only emotional but well written.
#winwin
November 3, 2015
My review
This is one of those books that will suck you in from the start and hang on to you till the end. To say it’s a page turner is an understatement, this is a book that will toy with your emotions, mess with your head and make you thank god that you did not have to endure what Alisha did.
Alisha is a 28 year old married psychologist. She is kidnapped by a client and taken to Pakistan to live as his second wife. Her name is changed from Alisha to Sara. Alisha knows she has to do what she has to do to survive, in a male dominated country, she knows she has to keep her head low and her mouth shut, but what she sees and experiences, will change her life forever.
Dave, Alisha's husband, is heartbroken when he finds out that his wife has been kidnapped and goes into mourning. He doesn’t know who took her, where she has gone and its heart-wrenching, until the day he gets the knock on the door and the visitor informs him he knows where Alisha is but they have hurry, time is not on her side. One day he gets a visit from someone claiming to know the whereabouts of Alisha.
I liked that the story was told in the POV of Alisha and her husband Dave, it gave more of a powerful feel. This book is definitely a book I would recommend to everyone.
My rating 5.0 out of 5.0
This is one of those books that will suck you in from the start and hang on to you till the end. To say it’s a page turner is an understatement, this is a book that will toy with your emotions, mess with your head and make you thank god that you did not have to endure what Alisha did.
Alisha is a 28 year old married psychologist. She is kidnapped by a client and taken to Pakistan to live as his second wife. Her name is changed from Alisha to Sara. Alisha knows she has to do what she has to do to survive, in a male dominated country, she knows she has to keep her head low and her mouth shut, but what she sees and experiences, will change her life forever.
Dave, Alisha's husband, is heartbroken when he finds out that his wife has been kidnapped and goes into mourning. He doesn’t know who took her, where she has gone and its heart-wrenching, until the day he gets the knock on the door and the visitor informs him he knows where Alisha is but they have hurry, time is not on her side. One day he gets a visit from someone claiming to know the whereabouts of Alisha.
I liked that the story was told in the POV of Alisha and her husband Dave, it gave more of a powerful feel. This book is definitely a book I would recommend to everyone.
My rating 5.0 out of 5.0
January 5, 2016
I was given a copy exchange for my honest review.
For me this book grabbed me right away the first part of the read you are already thrown into the craziness of what's going on. Ally has been kidnapped and she wakes up so scared fearful and you get that off of her right away the panic the fear and her trying to remember what happened what's going on where is she. And also in the beginning of the book you learn what her husband Dave is going through what's happening with him while she's missing. You do flick back-and-forth between what Dave is doing and what is happening to Ally/Sara.. But once you start understanding what is going on you can't put the book down.. For me reading about Ally/sara I felt her fear her anger her pain the struggles but I also felt the connection and the love she had for other people while this was all happening to her where she started to bond with other I'm going to say victims of this madman. You can't help but hoping that there's going to be a happy ending in the chill keep fighting. Also for me I found myself sitting there thinking can you trust this person what about this person I don't know if they should trust this one had me thinking about decisions for the character..
I definitely say this is a great read and I recommend this read
For me this book grabbed me right away the first part of the read you are already thrown into the craziness of what's going on. Ally has been kidnapped and she wakes up so scared fearful and you get that off of her right away the panic the fear and her trying to remember what happened what's going on where is she. And also in the beginning of the book you learn what her husband Dave is going through what's happening with him while she's missing. You do flick back-and-forth between what Dave is doing and what is happening to Ally/Sara.. But once you start understanding what is going on you can't put the book down.. For me reading about Ally/sara I felt her fear her anger her pain the struggles but I also felt the connection and the love she had for other people while this was all happening to her where she started to bond with other I'm going to say victims of this madman. You can't help but hoping that there's going to be a happy ending in the chill keep fighting. Also for me I found myself sitting there thinking can you trust this person what about this person I don't know if they should trust this one had me thinking about decisions for the character..
I definitely say this is a great read and I recommend this read
January 13, 2016
It's absolutely official now; I am head over heels for Kishan Paul's work and the anticipation for more releases by her, is even higher now! This book highlights her cleverness to a whole new level with a horrifying scenario and a love that could never be extinguished, no matter how big of a whirlwind storm that brews between them.
I have never been this afraid for fictional characters before! I found myself teary-eyed more times than I can count watching what these two characters have to endure to be in each others arms again. Even the side characters will haunt you long after this book is done.
It's told in two perspectives, by a husband and wife whose marriage took an unexpected turn by things that were out of their control. What makes this book so much more exciting, is that the plot is not too far away from fiction, at all. Her abduction is an unfortunate and realistic possibility in this world, and watching this strong, fierce woman handle it has been an incredible journey!
I will be blogging some more about this book shortly, keep an eye out for a fun discussion!
I have never been this afraid for fictional characters before! I found myself teary-eyed more times than I can count watching what these two characters have to endure to be in each others arms again. Even the side characters will haunt you long after this book is done.
It's told in two perspectives, by a husband and wife whose marriage took an unexpected turn by things that were out of their control. What makes this book so much more exciting, is that the plot is not too far away from fiction, at all. Her abduction is an unfortunate and realistic possibility in this world, and watching this strong, fierce woman handle it has been an incredible journey!
I will be blogging some more about this book shortly, keep an eye out for a fun discussion!
October 10, 2015
Wow! This book is so different than anything I've ever read, and I loved it! The story is one I will definitely not forget. It's about a woman who is kidnapped and taken to Pakistan, where she is forced to marry her captor. Her life is brutally horrific, but along the way, she develops deep relationships with a few people that are important to the story. Meanwhile, her "real" husband struggles with her disappearance for years. When he is given a tip that she may be alive, it's a complete toss-up as to who he can trust. Will he get to her? Will it be too late? Will she want to leave with him, if he does find her? What will she be like after years of abuse and captivity? There were several twists and turns that kept me interested, and I didn't want to put it down. This book is very difficult at times, and definitely not a typical romance (there's very little romance, really). Although, the love between the main character and her husband is what helps her survive the unimaginable, so there is that ;) I highly recommend this book to romance readers, and non-romance readers alike!
Read
January 27, 2016The Second Wife is one of those rare novels that will lurk in the back of your mind for weeks. With stunning precision,Kishan Paul throws the reader into a world of clandestine organizations and brutal politics. The gripping characters wrench your heart and make you cringe with fear. A rollercoaster of suspense and emotion not to be missed.
October 8, 2015
Wow what a great book. The emotion in this book is just fantastic, very well balanced. Looking forward to the next book now. Would recommend if you like gritty dark real books. Loved it.
June 29, 2018
Love trumps terrorism in a modern thriller
I'm still reeling. Kishan Paul's double tale of true love and hellacious terror kept me turning pages all night long. Imagine being a therapist, seeing a client who creeps you out, and then kidnaps you? It happens to Alysha, who wakes up imprisoned at his guarded compound in Pakistan, her life, her husband, her family, her colleagues all lost to her. She's been 'married' to her captor, she has a new name, and she's supposed to bear this monster's children! The story follows, at different times and intervals, both Alysha/Sara in her captivity, and Dave, the physician/husband who can't move on without knowing why she disappeared. HIs undying love for her demands that he grab the straws of hope offered by a mysterious Pakistani doctor whose dying wife is one of Dave's patients. I'm not sure which thread of the story is more compelling - Dave's frantic and desperate search for Alysha, or Alysha's incredibly brave and unending attempts to protect herself and the other victims of the power-mad sociopathic monster who uses them all for his own gain and amusement. (If realistic depictions of unspeakable violence and psychological sadism bother you, be warned!) I am stunned by the depth of feelings this book brought up for me, by how invested in Alysha's escape and Dave's rescue effort I became. Author Paul's characters exist in a sort of temporal vacuum, as brilliant video clips of selected episodes in their lives show us the qualities and inner resources they bring to bear on their situation. Intense action and violence punctuate the steady drumbeat of desperation that underpins the story. The ending is a bit protracted - there are loose ends aplenty to tie up, and Dave and Alysha's lives are forever changed. The way back to normal is mined with PSTD, and healing is long, hard work. The author elects to give us brilliant video clips of that process and leaves us with a very real picture of the pain and the joy of their survival. I rate it 4.5 stars and an adrenaline rush.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm still reeling. Kishan Paul's double tale of true love and hellacious terror kept me turning pages all night long. Imagine being a therapist, seeing a client who creeps you out, and then kidnaps you? It happens to Alysha, who wakes up imprisoned at his guarded compound in Pakistan, her life, her husband, her family, her colleagues all lost to her. She's been 'married' to her captor, she has a new name, and she's supposed to bear this monster's children! The story follows, at different times and intervals, both Alysha/Sara in her captivity, and Dave, the physician/husband who can't move on without knowing why she disappeared. HIs undying love for her demands that he grab the straws of hope offered by a mysterious Pakistani doctor whose dying wife is one of Dave's patients. I'm not sure which thread of the story is more compelling - Dave's frantic and desperate search for Alysha, or Alysha's incredibly brave and unending attempts to protect herself and the other victims of the power-mad sociopathic monster who uses them all for his own gain and amusement. (If realistic depictions of unspeakable violence and psychological sadism bother you, be warned!) I am stunned by the depth of feelings this book brought up for me, by how invested in Alysha's escape and Dave's rescue effort I became. Author Paul's characters exist in a sort of temporal vacuum, as brilliant video clips of selected episodes in their lives show us the qualities and inner resources they bring to bear on their situation. Intense action and violence punctuate the steady drumbeat of desperation that underpins the story. The ending is a bit protracted - there are loose ends aplenty to tie up, and Dave and Alysha's lives are forever changed. The way back to normal is mined with PSTD, and healing is long, hard work. The author elects to give us brilliant video clips of that process and leaves us with a very real picture of the pain and the joy of their survival. I rate it 4.5 stars and an adrenaline rush.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2022
A shocking, emotional, gut punch, thrill ride! This exceeded any expectation I had and pushed me farther than I expected to go. Phew! There is trauma here and it runs deep. I am thankful for the author's straight forward voice and sparse details when it came down to the nitty gritty. It made the unbearable bearable, to read.
I took a wild chance on this author and am so happy I did. I came across the author at a book signing and bought this series, with little more than a cursory review of the blurb and a short conversation with the author herself. Best blind purchase ever!
Near perfect pacing, amazing story telling, and suspense that kept glued to the pages. But better still, I can't stop thinking about these characters and their story. There is no better endorsement than that.
I took a wild chance on this author and am so happy I did. I came across the author at a book signing and bought this series, with little more than a cursory review of the blurb and a short conversation with the author herself. Best blind purchase ever!
Near perfect pacing, amazing story telling, and suspense that kept glued to the pages. But better still, I can't stop thinking about these characters and their story. There is no better endorsement than that.
September 26, 2017
This was not an enjoyable book. The pain and devastation Ally goes through is beyond upsetting/disturbing, and at one point I seriously just had to set the book aside because I didn't know how much more this poor woman could take. And Dave had his own hell to contend with, not knowing the trauma his wife was going through while trying to move on with his life.
That being said it was an engrossing, well-written story and I couldn't look away, so it deserves it's four stars.
That being said it was an engrossing, well-written story and I couldn't look away, so it deserves it's four stars.
Want to read
September 14, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/14/2019)! 🎁
January 2, 2016
This is SUCH a different type of romance. It blew me away.
The way the subject matter was handled was masterful. Yes, the story is dark, but it doesn't feel grotesque, graphic or gory. The characters were fully developed and complex to the point you want to re-read the book to absorb all the layers. The plot was compelling...riveting...I read it in one sitting. I had such a book hangover I forced myself to read two novellas to shake the feeling. It was that beautiful.
The biggest thing that still strikes me weeks after I've read it is the character reactions. They felt so genuine, their struggle so real, that I was transported into their lives. We all want to experience that in a romance...an escape from the every day...but it still has a superficial ring to it. You *know* it's make-believe, you *know* the story will end and there'll be laundry waiting for you, dinner to make, kids to tend to. With The Second Wife, the emotions and reactions didn't feel superficial at all. The author didn't gloss over the tough parts to give it a happily ever after. She worked those characters--made them get there--and you felt it right in the heart. It lingered long after the book was done, and that is some skill.
Go read this book. That's all I can say.
The way the subject matter was handled was masterful. Yes, the story is dark, but it doesn't feel grotesque, graphic or gory. The characters were fully developed and complex to the point you want to re-read the book to absorb all the layers. The plot was compelling...riveting...I read it in one sitting. I had such a book hangover I forced myself to read two novellas to shake the feeling. It was that beautiful.
The biggest thing that still strikes me weeks after I've read it is the character reactions. They felt so genuine, their struggle so real, that I was transported into their lives. We all want to experience that in a romance...an escape from the every day...but it still has a superficial ring to it. You *know* it's make-believe, you *know* the story will end and there'll be laundry waiting for you, dinner to make, kids to tend to. With The Second Wife, the emotions and reactions didn't feel superficial at all. The author didn't gloss over the tough parts to give it a happily ever after. She worked those characters--made them get there--and you felt it right in the heart. It lingered long after the book was done, and that is some skill.
Go read this book. That's all I can say.
October 22, 2015
I recieved a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions in this review are my own. Kishan Paul's story and characters jumped off the pages and into this reader's heart and mind. I really enjoyed reading about Ali and David in this book. Paul's depiction of such an ethnic, politically and culturally charged storyline felt very authentic and true to the heart of the writer. Paul's truth and voice opened up the mind of this reader and made me appreciate what things could be like for people of a background different from mine. I found the pacing of the plot to be moving and interesting to read. I felt the powerful emotions behind the scenarios Kishan Paul created. I found it easy to identify with the main characters, in fact I felt like I was in love with them and their experience. I feel like something like this has happened or could have happened to real people with different results. I also thoroughly enjoyed the romantic aspect of this story and what David carried for Ali. This book has a little bit of everything that one could want in a book, or if you are adventurous real life. I recommend this book to other readers. There are some difficult topics but the author does a good job of presenting them with the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews