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The Good Widow
Bestselling authors Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke make their suspense debut in this twisty, emotional thriller.
Elementary school teacher Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales’s marriage was far from perfect, but even in its ups and downs it was predictable, familiar. Or at least she thought it was…until two police officers showed up at her door with devastating news. Her husband of eight years, the one who should have been on a business trip to Kansas, had suffered a fatal car accident in Hawaii. And he wasn’t alone.
For Jacks, laying her husband to rest was hard. But it was even harder to think that his final moments belonged to another woman—one who had left behind her own grieving and bewildered fiancé. Nick, just as blindsided by the affair, wants answers. So he suggests that he and Jacks search for the truth together, retracing the doomed lovers’ last days in paradise.
Now, following the twisting path of that fateful road, Jacks is learning that nothing is ever as it seems. Not her marriage. Not her husband. And most certainly not his death…
Elementary school teacher Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales’s marriage was far from perfect, but even in its ups and downs it was predictable, familiar. Or at least she thought it was…until two police officers showed up at her door with devastating news. Her husband of eight years, the one who should have been on a business trip to Kansas, had suffered a fatal car accident in Hawaii. And he wasn’t alone.
For Jacks, laying her husband to rest was hard. But it was even harder to think that his final moments belonged to another woman—one who had left behind her own grieving and bewildered fiancé. Nick, just as blindsided by the affair, wants answers. So he suggests that he and Jacks search for the truth together, retracing the doomed lovers’ last days in paradise.
Now, following the twisting path of that fateful road, Jacks is learning that nothing is ever as it seems. Not her marriage. Not her husband. And most certainly not his death…
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2017
6371 people are currently reading
23333 people want to read
About the author
Liz Fenton
11 books1,682 followersLiz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have been best friends for over thirty years and survived high school and college together. They’ve co-authored nine novels, including the Amazon Charts bestseller, The Good Widow.
In addition to writing books, they created a podcast, We Fight So You Don’t Have to: Lessons from a thirty-year friendship.
They both reside in San Diego, California with their families and several rescue dogs.Connect with Liz and Lisa on Instagram at @lisaandliz or at www.lizandlisa.com.
Connect with Liz and Lisa on social media: www.lizandlisa.com
Instagram: @lisaandliz
FB: Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke
Substack: lizandlisa
In addition to writing books, they created a podcast, We Fight So You Don’t Have to: Lessons from a thirty-year friendship.
They both reside in San Diego, California with their families and several rescue dogs.Connect with Liz and Lisa on Instagram at @lisaandliz or at www.lizandlisa.com.
Connect with Liz and Lisa on social media: www.lizandlisa.com
Instagram: @lisaandliz
FB: Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke
Substack: lizandlisa
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,328 reviews
March 6, 2017
Here's your summer read ladies (and progressive gentlemen)!
To say I was doing the happy dance the moment I heard Liz & Lisa were publishing a novel of suspense would be an understatement; I was like that dang emoji on the iPhone in the red dress, so much so that my family is still embarrassed to be seen in public with me. Oops. On one hand, I knew this storyline would fit perfect with the type of novels that Lake Union has been publishing lately; the suspenseful, domestic fiction is really working for them as a publisher right now, and for good reason. We as readers can’t get enough of these books with characters who make our lives look sane and boring. On the other hand, I was slightly nervous as this is a new venture for them and you really never know if someone can be good at everything until they try. I’m overjoyed to tell you that this one is as over-the-top fabulous as we are all expecting it to be!
“She can kill with a smile
She can wound with her eyes
She can ruin your faith with her casual lies
And she only reveals what she wants you to see
She hides like a child
But she’s always a woman to me”
-Billy Joel
Let me throw something out right off the bat; if you aren’t typically a fan of the Lake Union novel, the suspenseful and romantic tales where they may be a bit unbelievable but are totally and completely addicting, this may not be the read for you. Don’t pick this up expecting literary fiction or if you are wanting something super profound. This book is pure entertainment and bliss; I was lost completely in the fast pacing and exciting story. I pick up books like this BECAUSE they are not realistic, hence my wanting an escape from reality. There is no shame in my game; I routinely pick up books for fun instead of having a deep, intellectual experience and am proud of it. *Steps off soapbox* Ok, now that we got that squared away, let me gush over all the reasons that I absolutely sucked this book dry in under 24 hours.
From the very first lines of the prologue I was hooked. I mean utterly, completely grabbed. We start off the story with multiple huge secrets. Who are the people in the jeep? What is her big secret that she’s afraid to tell? What’s going on? I’m nosey and need to be in the middle of all the action people! The pacing does not let up until the book is finished, which I think proves the dynamic duo can confidently handle the suspense genre like seasoned pros. It’s nice to find a book that doubles as a guilty pleasure and a breathtaking, atmospheric story. I can’t implore you enough to read this, even if just for that gorgeous setting. Who doesn’t want to read a book that takes place in California and Hawaii? The descriptions were so on point that I could practically taste the salt in the air; I’m going ahead and volunteering to tag along on their next research trip. Need someone to hold your bags? Fan you? Take pictures? Count me in ladies! :)
I really don’t want to say much in regards of plot, but I can assure you that there are many twists and turns. Not only is there the current drama in regards to the action, but we have little flashbacks full of sentimental information to slowly piece together the secrets between our two (or is it three?) couples that the book focuses on. I truly loved the inclusion of James’ family history and culture; I think it added a much needed dimension to the story and brought it fully to life. I wish I could say more, but I guess you’ll just have to hit that pre-order button and find out for yourself just why this book is already garnering so much buzz worthy attention. The Good Widow was a speedy, light read that would fit just as well on your nightstand at home as it would while tanning on the beach, preferably in Hawaii. I think we can all agree that cover is simply swoon-worthy as well. Highly recommended to domestic fiction lovers; I’m hoping this is just the beginning of Liz and Lisa’s trip down a road full of books including suspense and intrigue!
*Many thanks to the authors for sending me an arc; you both are dears and it is such a pleasure to read your books!
To say I was doing the happy dance the moment I heard Liz & Lisa were publishing a novel of suspense would be an understatement; I was like that dang emoji on the iPhone in the red dress, so much so that my family is still embarrassed to be seen in public with me. Oops. On one hand, I knew this storyline would fit perfect with the type of novels that Lake Union has been publishing lately; the suspenseful, domestic fiction is really working for them as a publisher right now, and for good reason. We as readers can’t get enough of these books with characters who make our lives look sane and boring. On the other hand, I was slightly nervous as this is a new venture for them and you really never know if someone can be good at everything until they try. I’m overjoyed to tell you that this one is as over-the-top fabulous as we are all expecting it to be!
“She can kill with a smile
She can wound with her eyes
She can ruin your faith with her casual lies
And she only reveals what she wants you to see
She hides like a child
But she’s always a woman to me”
-Billy Joel
Let me throw something out right off the bat; if you aren’t typically a fan of the Lake Union novel, the suspenseful and romantic tales where they may be a bit unbelievable but are totally and completely addicting, this may not be the read for you. Don’t pick this up expecting literary fiction or if you are wanting something super profound. This book is pure entertainment and bliss; I was lost completely in the fast pacing and exciting story. I pick up books like this BECAUSE they are not realistic, hence my wanting an escape from reality. There is no shame in my game; I routinely pick up books for fun instead of having a deep, intellectual experience and am proud of it. *Steps off soapbox* Ok, now that we got that squared away, let me gush over all the reasons that I absolutely sucked this book dry in under 24 hours.
From the very first lines of the prologue I was hooked. I mean utterly, completely grabbed. We start off the story with multiple huge secrets. Who are the people in the jeep? What is her big secret that she’s afraid to tell? What’s going on? I’m nosey and need to be in the middle of all the action people! The pacing does not let up until the book is finished, which I think proves the dynamic duo can confidently handle the suspense genre like seasoned pros. It’s nice to find a book that doubles as a guilty pleasure and a breathtaking, atmospheric story. I can’t implore you enough to read this, even if just for that gorgeous setting. Who doesn’t want to read a book that takes place in California and Hawaii? The descriptions were so on point that I could practically taste the salt in the air; I’m going ahead and volunteering to tag along on their next research trip. Need someone to hold your bags? Fan you? Take pictures? Count me in ladies! :)
I really don’t want to say much in regards of plot, but I can assure you that there are many twists and turns. Not only is there the current drama in regards to the action, but we have little flashbacks full of sentimental information to slowly piece together the secrets between our two (or is it three?) couples that the book focuses on. I truly loved the inclusion of James’ family history and culture; I think it added a much needed dimension to the story and brought it fully to life. I wish I could say more, but I guess you’ll just have to hit that pre-order button and find out for yourself just why this book is already garnering so much buzz worthy attention. The Good Widow was a speedy, light read that would fit just as well on your nightstand at home as it would while tanning on the beach, preferably in Hawaii. I think we can all agree that cover is simply swoon-worthy as well. Highly recommended to domestic fiction lovers; I’m hoping this is just the beginning of Liz and Lisa’s trip down a road full of books including suspense and intrigue!
*Many thanks to the authors for sending me an arc; you both are dears and it is such a pleasure to read your books!
June 10, 2017
90% chick lit, 10% suspense. This is the best way that I can think of to describe The Good Widow
When Jack’s husband of years dies in a freak car accident in Maui, she is shocked. Her husband James is supposed to be on a business trip in Kansas. Jacks soon learns that James was in Maui with his mistress, Dylan. Jacks realizes that she never really knew her husband of eight years.When Dylan’s fiancée, Nick, shows up at her door asking her to go to Maui with him to find more out about Dylan and James' relationship, Jacks against her better judgment, agrees to go along, hoping that the trip will help her heal.
Told through Jacks and Dylan’s alternating POV’s that switch from “before” and “after”, little tidbits are revealed about Jacks and James’s marriage, as well as Dylan and Nick’s relationship. This seems like it is going to be a story of a woman slowly finding herself after her husband’s death until the twist at the end (which unfortunately I saw from a mile away).
I found The Good Widow to be SLOW moving; I was waiting and waiting for something to happen. I also had a hard time rooting for clueless Jacks.
I didn’t love this one, but I am in the minority—The Good Widow is receiving a lot of rave reviews. It’s a quick and easy read, and if you are looking for a good summer book to get lost in, The Good Widow just might do the trick.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
When Jack’s husband of years dies in a freak car accident in Maui, she is shocked. Her husband James is supposed to be on a business trip in Kansas. Jacks soon learns that James was in Maui with his mistress, Dylan. Jacks realizes that she never really knew her husband of eight years.When Dylan’s fiancée, Nick, shows up at her door asking her to go to Maui with him to find more out about Dylan and James' relationship, Jacks against her better judgment, agrees to go along, hoping that the trip will help her heal.
Told through Jacks and Dylan’s alternating POV’s that switch from “before” and “after”, little tidbits are revealed about Jacks and James’s marriage, as well as Dylan and Nick’s relationship. This seems like it is going to be a story of a woman slowly finding herself after her husband’s death until the twist at the end (which unfortunately I saw from a mile away).
I found The Good Widow to be SLOW moving; I was waiting and waiting for something to happen. I also had a hard time rooting for clueless Jacks.
I didn’t love this one, but I am in the minority—The Good Widow is receiving a lot of rave reviews. It’s a quick and easy read, and if you are looking for a good summer book to get lost in, The Good Widow just might do the trick.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2017
Mixed feelings on this one...to say the least!
Jacks Morales hears a knock on her door - her life is about to change forever.
"Five minutes ago, I wasn't a widow"
The police have come with the sad news that her husband James died in a tragic accident while in Maui. But wait just a minute, wasn't he supposed to be In Kansas on business? And, he wasn't alone!? Woops.
Plans are made with the other woman's fiancé Nick, to fly to Maui and retrace the steps of their cheating, loved ones. All the way to the scene of the crash, supposedly for closure....WHAT?? Granted, people grieve in different ways. I get that. As an RN I see it every day. But to go back to the scene of the crime, so to speak. I had a hard time comprehending that. Why? What could possibly be gained from this? As a wife I would want no part of it. If anything, I would want to distance myself completely from that pain and betrayal. Again, I know everyone handles things differently...but seriously?! That just seems weird and sadistic!
So you wonder why I continued reading. Curiosity, plain and simple! I just had to see where this was going. I was so charged up emotionally I couldn't just drop it. Sure, there were some great twists, and there was more to the story than just this singular quest. The writing was easy to follow as it showed different points of view from both women before and after the crash. I finished it rather quickly, and yes, I‘m glad I stayed with it till the end.
Most people really enjoyed this one so if you were planning on reading this one don't let me sway you. I am definitely in the minority on this one. 3*
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing. Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jacks Morales hears a knock on her door - her life is about to change forever.
"Five minutes ago, I wasn't a widow"
The police have come with the sad news that her husband James died in a tragic accident while in Maui. But wait just a minute, wasn't he supposed to be In Kansas on business? And, he wasn't alone!? Woops.
Plans are made with the other woman's fiancé Nick, to fly to Maui and retrace the steps of their cheating, loved ones. All the way to the scene of the crash, supposedly for closure....WHAT?? Granted, people grieve in different ways. I get that. As an RN I see it every day. But to go back to the scene of the crime, so to speak. I had a hard time comprehending that. Why? What could possibly be gained from this? As a wife I would want no part of it. If anything, I would want to distance myself completely from that pain and betrayal. Again, I know everyone handles things differently...but seriously?! That just seems weird and sadistic!
So you wonder why I continued reading. Curiosity, plain and simple! I just had to see where this was going. I was so charged up emotionally I couldn't just drop it. Sure, there were some great twists, and there was more to the story than just this singular quest. The writing was easy to follow as it showed different points of view from both women before and after the crash. I finished it rather quickly, and yes, I‘m glad I stayed with it till the end.
Most people really enjoyed this one so if you were planning on reading this one don't let me sway you. I am definitely in the minority on this one. 3*
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing. Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2017
Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales gets a surprise visit by two police officers at her home in California. They inform her that her husband, James, has died in Hawaii in a car crash. Adding to the mystery is an unknown woman who also died in the accident. Jacks is confused because James was supposed to be on a business trip to Kansas.
James and Jacks had been married for eight years. She never felt that their marriage was perfect but they seemed to get along. After his memorial, an unknown man named Nick shows up at her door. He was formerly engaged to Dylan, the woman from the accident. He is also searching for answers and wants to visit Hawaii to retrace their loved ones last few days. She agrees to join him in an attempt to solve many of her questions. Together they solve some of these mysteries while unraveling some unsettling truths.
The Good Widow is mixture of both drama and suspense. The story with its twists and tension makes it hard to put down. I look forward to more works from the team of Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke.
I am giving away 1 copy on my blog until 5/12 https://www.facebook.com/suzyapproved...
James and Jacks had been married for eight years. She never felt that their marriage was perfect but they seemed to get along. After his memorial, an unknown man named Nick shows up at her door. He was formerly engaged to Dylan, the woman from the accident. He is also searching for answers and wants to visit Hawaii to retrace their loved ones last few days. She agrees to join him in an attempt to solve many of her questions. Together they solve some of these mysteries while unraveling some unsettling truths.
The Good Widow is mixture of both drama and suspense. The story with its twists and tension makes it hard to put down. I look forward to more works from the team of Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke.
I am giving away 1 copy on my blog until 5/12 https://www.facebook.com/suzyapproved...
June 11, 2017
Shape Sifters.
Mythical creatures who possess the ability to transform themselves at will.
Hmm.....But it seems we have the human type here amongst us. They weave in and out presenting themselves in a far different light with far different intentions. Words spoken eye to eye tinged with the sting of lies.
That unexpected knock at the door never seems to be good news. It isn't. Not for Jacqueline "Jacks" Morales that day. Two police officers spill out the words that will change her life forever. Jacks' husband, James, has been killed in a vehicle accident in Maui. Funny thing.....James was suppose to be on a business trip in Kansas. Corn fields to tropical forests seems a bit of a stretch. And he wasn't alone in that jazzy Jeep.
Same door, but a different knock this time. Nick Ford introduces himself. James' fellow passenger that day was an attractive blonde by the name of Dylan Matthews. Nick and Dylan were close. Very close, indeed, since they were engaged to be married. Shape Shifters, once again, assume a transformation here. Dylan and James turn out to be a hot item. Shock permeates through Jacks and Nick like a wet finger touching a spot of sizzling hot voltage.
Nick convinces Jacks that they should travel to Maui for themselves to bring much needed closure. Perhaps experiencing the same trip and viewing that winding road will help them both to leave their pain forever in the spot where it happened and not in their familiar home base.
Following the trail of the shifting, both Jacks and Nick find bartenders and venue managers who give them snippets of information in regard to their own encounters with Dylan and James. What transpires here is eye-opening. Do we ever truly know these shifters who have taken up long residence in our lives?
I must confess that I was uncertain at first about this one. I like my mystery/thrillers with a heavier cut of beef. Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke present a well thought out storyline here, but the explanations and fill-ins with excessive insets of "remember when" seemed to bog down the storyline a bit. Some were admittedly necessary and some a tad much. I know that The Good Widow will be a popular book because of the ease of the writing style and the titillating subject matter. Believe me, this one will hold your attention and you'll finish it in one gulp like a Maui Mai Tai.
I received a copy of The Good Widow through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and to Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke for the opportunity.
Mythical creatures who possess the ability to transform themselves at will.
Hmm.....But it seems we have the human type here amongst us. They weave in and out presenting themselves in a far different light with far different intentions. Words spoken eye to eye tinged with the sting of lies.
That unexpected knock at the door never seems to be good news. It isn't. Not for Jacqueline "Jacks" Morales that day. Two police officers spill out the words that will change her life forever. Jacks' husband, James, has been killed in a vehicle accident in Maui. Funny thing.....James was suppose to be on a business trip in Kansas. Corn fields to tropical forests seems a bit of a stretch. And he wasn't alone in that jazzy Jeep.
Same door, but a different knock this time. Nick Ford introduces himself. James' fellow passenger that day was an attractive blonde by the name of Dylan Matthews. Nick and Dylan were close. Very close, indeed, since they were engaged to be married. Shape Shifters, once again, assume a transformation here. Dylan and James turn out to be a hot item. Shock permeates through Jacks and Nick like a wet finger touching a spot of sizzling hot voltage.
Nick convinces Jacks that they should travel to Maui for themselves to bring much needed closure. Perhaps experiencing the same trip and viewing that winding road will help them both to leave their pain forever in the spot where it happened and not in their familiar home base.
Following the trail of the shifting, both Jacks and Nick find bartenders and venue managers who give them snippets of information in regard to their own encounters with Dylan and James. What transpires here is eye-opening. Do we ever truly know these shifters who have taken up long residence in our lives?
I must confess that I was uncertain at first about this one. I like my mystery/thrillers with a heavier cut of beef. Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke present a well thought out storyline here, but the explanations and fill-ins with excessive insets of "remember when" seemed to bog down the storyline a bit. Some were admittedly necessary and some a tad much. I know that The Good Widow will be a popular book because of the ease of the writing style and the titillating subject matter. Believe me, this one will hold your attention and you'll finish it in one gulp like a Maui Mai Tai.
I received a copy of The Good Widow through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Lake Union Publishing and to Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke for the opportunity.
August 9, 2017
THE GOOD WIDOW is the debut emotional thriller from bestselling authors Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke. The cover was perfect…dark water creating an eerie feeling of things to come. I really enjoyed reading this book, and found I was caught up in the moment experiencing the drama.
It’s funny how your life can change on a dime!
“Elementary school teacher Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales’s marriage was far from perfect, but even in its ups and downs it was predictable, familiar. Or at least she thought it was…until two police officers showed up at her door with devastating news. Her husband of eight years, the one who should have been on a business trip to Kansas, had suffered a fatal car accident in Hawaii. And he wasn’t alone.”
Her husband, James had been in a rented Jeep Wrangler with a twenty-four-year-old woman named Dylan Matthews. Dylan was also killed.
Jacks was devastated and couldn’t accept what had happened. Eight years married and her husband had secrets. Why had he died in Maui? He was supposed to be in Kansas! She needed to find out “WHY”, to add closure to her life.
Dylan’s confused fiancé, Nick, also in shock, needs answers, so he suggests that he and Jacks search for the truth together, by going to Maui and retracing the lovers’ last days.
But nothing is what it seems… Not her marriage… Not her husband…And Not even his death.
I will not comment further for risk of spoilers. You must read this book. The strength of this book was in the well-developed characters and the drama they faced. I just had to see where this was going. The chapters were identified by the character, “Before” or “After” the accident., the writing easy to follow.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing. Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke for a copy of this book.
It’s funny how your life can change on a dime!
“Elementary school teacher Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales’s marriage was far from perfect, but even in its ups and downs it was predictable, familiar. Or at least she thought it was…until two police officers showed up at her door with devastating news. Her husband of eight years, the one who should have been on a business trip to Kansas, had suffered a fatal car accident in Hawaii. And he wasn’t alone.”
Her husband, James had been in a rented Jeep Wrangler with a twenty-four-year-old woman named Dylan Matthews. Dylan was also killed.
Jacks was devastated and couldn’t accept what had happened. Eight years married and her husband had secrets. Why had he died in Maui? He was supposed to be in Kansas! She needed to find out “WHY”, to add closure to her life.
Dylan’s confused fiancé, Nick, also in shock, needs answers, so he suggests that he and Jacks search for the truth together, by going to Maui and retracing the lovers’ last days.
But nothing is what it seems… Not her marriage… Not her husband…And Not even his death.
I will not comment further for risk of spoilers. You must read this book. The strength of this book was in the well-developed characters and the drama they faced. I just had to see where this was going. The chapters were identified by the character, “Before” or “After” the accident., the writing easy to follow.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing. Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke for a copy of this book.
August 21, 2022
This book didn’t grab me. I didn’t connect with the characters and found the nickname Jacks to be distracting for me. Too much like the guy’s name Jack. So here comes my admission: I didn’t read the entire book. I read the first seven chapters, and like I said, I wasn’t getting into the story. So *gasp* I skipped ahead to chapter 34 and continued on from there. I guess I read about 1/3 of the book. It was enough for me. I feel like I got the best parts of the book and skipped all the boring stuff. Maybe I’m wrong, maybe I missed some really great writing in the middle. But for me I am satisfied with the parts I did read and am glad not to have wasted time on the rest.
July 2, 2017
Wasn't what I expected.
Many GR friends gave good reviews for this book, but definitely isn't my age group. Thirty something age group will enjoy reading this book. Main character needs to grow up and examine what she's doing and not so dependent on people around her. You have to start any true relationship by disclosing everything, good or bad.
Many GR friends gave good reviews for this book, but definitely isn't my age group. Thirty something age group will enjoy reading this book. Main character needs to grow up and examine what she's doing and not so dependent on people around her. You have to start any true relationship by disclosing everything, good or bad.
May 1, 2017
4.5 stars
The Good Widow is a terrifically fun and engrossing read! The book grabbed me from the second I picked it up until I reached its highly satisfying conclusion. As I frequently state in my reviews, the thriller genre (particularly the unreliable narrator subgenre which thankfully this is not) is a bit overloaded these days – some are quite good, others are not good at all. Fortunately, The Good Widow is an outstanding addition to the group.
The story opens with a nameless couple driving the road to Hana in Hawaii. After the initial chapter, the story is told from the perspectives of several of the main characters. Early on, Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales learns that her husband James and a mysterious woman have died in a car accident in Hawaii. This news completely shocks Jacks because James had told her that he was on a business trip to Kansas. As the book progresses, Jacks seeks to unravel the mystery of why James was in Hawaii, who the mysterious woman was, and what led to his car accident. There are so many twists and turns as the story of their life together and numerous other secrets are revealed. Once I started reading the book, I didn’t want to put it down until I was finished with it.
The cover for the book is perfect – ominous, dark water which hides all manner of surprises underneath the surface. I highly recommend The Good Widow. Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union for the opportunity to read this gem in exchange for an honest review.
The Good Widow is a terrifically fun and engrossing read! The book grabbed me from the second I picked it up until I reached its highly satisfying conclusion. As I frequently state in my reviews, the thriller genre (particularly the unreliable narrator subgenre which thankfully this is not) is a bit overloaded these days – some are quite good, others are not good at all. Fortunately, The Good Widow is an outstanding addition to the group.
The story opens with a nameless couple driving the road to Hana in Hawaii. After the initial chapter, the story is told from the perspectives of several of the main characters. Early on, Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales learns that her husband James and a mysterious woman have died in a car accident in Hawaii. This news completely shocks Jacks because James had told her that he was on a business trip to Kansas. As the book progresses, Jacks seeks to unravel the mystery of why James was in Hawaii, who the mysterious woman was, and what led to his car accident. There are so many twists and turns as the story of their life together and numerous other secrets are revealed. Once I started reading the book, I didn’t want to put it down until I was finished with it.
The cover for the book is perfect – ominous, dark water which hides all manner of surprises underneath the surface. I highly recommend The Good Widow. Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union for the opportunity to read this gem in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2017
Another great book to read on the beach or bring along on vacation. This is a good one. Very entertaining and suspenseful. I devoured it in one sitting, it's a nice quick read that will keep you hooked from the beginning.
Jacqueline ("Jacks" to almost everyone) has just received devastating news. Her husband has died far from home. He had a car accident on a well-known dangerous road in Hawaii. Wait... wasn't he supposed to be in Kansas?
Turns out he wasn't on the boring business trip he told his wife about. He was on vacation... and Jacks soon learns that he wasn't alone. There was a (younger, blonder) woman in the car with him. Jacks and her husband had their issues, but she always trusted him. She never thought he would cheat. She was never one of those wives who would check phones and itineraries... should she have been? Would he still be alive?
Stunned and confused about mourning a husband who was apparently betraying her, she's at a loss. It isn't long before a young man shows up at her door with an interesting idea. The woman her husband was with was his fiance... and he's as confused as she is. He wants to travel to Hawaii to retrace every step they took those last few days and find answers. It sounds crazy, but Jacks is still intrigued. Much to the dismay of her concerned sister, she jets off to Hawaii to look for some kind of closure. Will she get it?
Some suspense and light romance, some mystery. I did predict quite a few plot points before they happened, which is what keeps this book from earning five stars from me. I still really enjoyed it and would recommend it. Even with all the crazy situations she's in, Jacks remains likeable and relatable. You might even end up feeling a little for the incredibly naive Dylan, the mistress. The book includes some chapters from before the tragedy, interspersed with the present. It's done well, and interesting to learn how they all got to the point of secrets and betrayal leading to death.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Lake Union Publishing, thank you! My opinion is honest and unbiased.
Jacqueline ("Jacks" to almost everyone) has just received devastating news. Her husband has died far from home. He had a car accident on a well-known dangerous road in Hawaii. Wait... wasn't he supposed to be in Kansas?
Turns out he wasn't on the boring business trip he told his wife about. He was on vacation... and Jacks soon learns that he wasn't alone. There was a (younger, blonder) woman in the car with him. Jacks and her husband had their issues, but she always trusted him. She never thought he would cheat. She was never one of those wives who would check phones and itineraries... should she have been? Would he still be alive?
Stunned and confused about mourning a husband who was apparently betraying her, she's at a loss. It isn't long before a young man shows up at her door with an interesting idea. The woman her husband was with was his fiance... and he's as confused as she is. He wants to travel to Hawaii to retrace every step they took those last few days and find answers. It sounds crazy, but Jacks is still intrigued. Much to the dismay of her concerned sister, she jets off to Hawaii to look for some kind of closure. Will she get it?
Some suspense and light romance, some mystery. I did predict quite a few plot points before they happened, which is what keeps this book from earning five stars from me. I still really enjoyed it and would recommend it. Even with all the crazy situations she's in, Jacks remains likeable and relatable. You might even end up feeling a little for the incredibly naive Dylan, the mistress. The book includes some chapters from before the tragedy, interspersed with the present. It's done well, and interesting to learn how they all got to the point of secrets and betrayal leading to death.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Lake Union Publishing, thank you! My opinion is honest and unbiased.
November 2, 2018
Wow! I ended up liking this book way more than I was expecting to. For some reason the premise, while it did sound interesting, could of very well fallen in the cheesy Lifetime movie category but was I wrong! I was completely captivated by this story. I absolutely adored Jacks our main character. All of her emotions after losing her husband after a terrible car accident seemed so honest and real. That lady truly tugged at my heart strings which isn't always easy to do. And then, at the end, a twist is thrown out there that I honestly never saw coming. Others may of guessed it but I sure as heck didn't. I read so many of these types of novels that I thought I'd get better at piecing these things together but, oh well, it only adds to my enjoyment when the unexpected happens.
I won a Kindle edition of this book through a Goodreads giveaway. Thank you, Goodreads!
I won a Kindle edition of this book through a Goodreads giveaway. Thank you, Goodreads!
July 24, 2017
A thrilling read! An emotional story of love and loss, and a gripping page-turner to boot. I did not see the ending coming. Brilliant! Liz and Lisa will keep readers on the edge of their seat with this one.
November 8, 2020
Holy shit.
I did not see that coming.
Just when I thought there was a happy ending around the corner!! 😕
Instead of calling this book The Good Widow, they should have called it The Bad Betrothed or something considering one was a home wrecker and the other was a psycho stalker/murderer. Has a nice ring to it.
3.5 stars.
I did not see that coming.
Just when I thought there was a happy ending around the corner!! 😕
Instead of calling this book The Good Widow, they should have called it The Bad Betrothed or something considering one was a home wrecker and the other was a psycho stalker/murderer. Has a nice ring to it.
3.5 stars.
July 6, 2017
For book reviews and recommendations visit https://booknationbyjen.wordpress.com.
Nothing wrong with a quick departure from reality as you become wholeheartedly absorbed in the suspense of The Good Widow. Jacks answers her front door to find two police officers telling her the shocking news that her husband is dead. She knew he was on a business trip in Kansas...or was he? The plot thickens when they tell her he was in an accident in Maui, Hawaii. With another woman. And so it begins...the unravelling of the truth behind their rocky marriage, the mother in law, fertility issues and unmet expectations. Then there's a visit from Nick, the fiancé of the woman Jacks' husband had been traveling with. Nick, equally distraught due to the loss of his wife to be, wants to take a trip to Maui with Jacks to retrace the couple's steps and learn the truth. And so they go. They discover unexpected details about their dead partners' secret vacation, and as the two grieving travelers spend time together things between them get complicated. Will they be able to gain closure, forgive their loved one and move on with their lives? What really happened in Hawaii? Are they truly who they say they are?
Fenton and Steinke do a great job building suspense, with more questions developing as each new detail rises to the surface. The flawed, yet likable characters kept me engaged and I thought I had it all figured out a few times before I finally saw the light; an enjoyable quick read while basking in the summer sun!
Nothing wrong with a quick departure from reality as you become wholeheartedly absorbed in the suspense of The Good Widow. Jacks answers her front door to find two police officers telling her the shocking news that her husband is dead. She knew he was on a business trip in Kansas...or was he? The plot thickens when they tell her he was in an accident in Maui, Hawaii. With another woman. And so it begins...the unravelling of the truth behind their rocky marriage, the mother in law, fertility issues and unmet expectations. Then there's a visit from Nick, the fiancé of the woman Jacks' husband had been traveling with. Nick, equally distraught due to the loss of his wife to be, wants to take a trip to Maui with Jacks to retrace the couple's steps and learn the truth. And so they go. They discover unexpected details about their dead partners' secret vacation, and as the two grieving travelers spend time together things between them get complicated. Will they be able to gain closure, forgive their loved one and move on with their lives? What really happened in Hawaii? Are they truly who they say they are?
Fenton and Steinke do a great job building suspense, with more questions developing as each new detail rises to the surface. The flawed, yet likable characters kept me engaged and I thought I had it all figured out a few times before I finally saw the light; an enjoyable quick read while basking in the summer sun!
June 8, 2017
Jacqueline “Jacks” Morales is a school teacher who while she didn't think she had a perfect marriage she did think it was stable and comfortable that is until the day two police officers showed up on her doorstep. Jacks is told that her husband had been involved in an accident while driving the road to Hana in Hawaii. Now since her husband was supposed to be on a business trip in Kansas Jack's is completely confused as to what happened.
Not only did Jacks get the information that her husband is gone but shortly after that she finds that he may not have been alone in the car when he died, there was a mystery woman with Jacks' husband and it seems he may have been having an affair. As Jacks is trying to wrap her head around the death and affair a man shows up at her door claiming to be the ex-fiancee of the mystery woman and makes the proposal that the two of them travel to Hawaii to investigate the last days of their partners.
The Good Widow is a book that I would have a hard time putting an exact label on in terms of what genre this best fit. I felt while reading about the first 75% of so of the story it felt a bit more along the lines of a drama than a thriller read which wasn't a bad thing though as I did get completely interested in Jacks and her story and how things got to the point that her husband was lying to her and on a trip with another woman.
However, while the first big portion of the story felt more like a drama read once you get towards the end the twists are certainly quite evident within the story and then comes the edge of your seat thriller section. At this point in the story I had a bit of an ah-ha moment on things that came earlier and definitely wanted to know the outcome. Since I like a wide variety of books I ended up really enjoying this one even though the beginning didn't have that thriller edge to the story so I would warn of the slow start.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Not only did Jacks get the information that her husband is gone but shortly after that she finds that he may not have been alone in the car when he died, there was a mystery woman with Jacks' husband and it seems he may have been having an affair. As Jacks is trying to wrap her head around the death and affair a man shows up at her door claiming to be the ex-fiancee of the mystery woman and makes the proposal that the two of them travel to Hawaii to investigate the last days of their partners.
The Good Widow is a book that I would have a hard time putting an exact label on in terms of what genre this best fit. I felt while reading about the first 75% of so of the story it felt a bit more along the lines of a drama than a thriller read which wasn't a bad thing though as I did get completely interested in Jacks and her story and how things got to the point that her husband was lying to her and on a trip with another woman.
However, while the first big portion of the story felt more like a drama read once you get towards the end the twists are certainly quite evident within the story and then comes the edge of your seat thriller section. At this point in the story I had a bit of an ah-ha moment on things that came earlier and definitely wanted to know the outcome. Since I like a wide variety of books I ended up really enjoying this one even though the beginning didn't have that thriller edge to the story so I would warn of the slow start.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
March 10, 2017
So fun to read this first suspense novel from Liz and Lisa! Put this one on your to-read shelf!
April 20, 2018
4 Solid Stars!
I've never read anything by Liz and Lisa but I can say that I'm really excited to pick up another novel by these ladies! I devoured this in pretty much a day and it had a great ending!
We meet Jacks who is an elementary school teacher. She's married to James and they have a pretty normal marriage...or so we think. They're way past the honeymoon stage and struggling with infertility. James comes from a huge family so pressure is on from Jacks MIL. Ultimately James starts to resent Jacks and ends up having an affair with another woman. One day police officers come to her door and tell her James is dead and wasn't alone. Jacks suddenly has a million questions and how will they be answered?
Then we meet Nick. He is the fiancee of the woman James is having an affair with. He shows up at Jacks door and wants her to explore the place where both the ones they loved died. Nick is incredibly sweet to Jacks but is it weird she's willing to go to a random place with a random stranger? Is this guy too good to be true? Are there secrets their spouses were hiding? Ah! So many twists towards the end
I'll be honest the ending got me. I was not expecting that! It went in a WHOLE other direction from what I thought it would and bravo to the authors for that! Since i've read my share of mystery/suspense I feel like I tend to guess what way the author may go. I love it when books go in a totally different direction!
I can't wait to read Girls Night Out by Liz and Lisa coming out in July!
I've never read anything by Liz and Lisa but I can say that I'm really excited to pick up another novel by these ladies! I devoured this in pretty much a day and it had a great ending!
We meet Jacks who is an elementary school teacher. She's married to James and they have a pretty normal marriage...or so we think. They're way past the honeymoon stage and struggling with infertility. James comes from a huge family so pressure is on from Jacks MIL. Ultimately James starts to resent Jacks and ends up having an affair with another woman. One day police officers come to her door and tell her James is dead and wasn't alone. Jacks suddenly has a million questions and how will they be answered?
Then we meet Nick. He is the fiancee of the woman James is having an affair with. He shows up at Jacks door and wants her to explore the place where both the ones they loved died. Nick is incredibly sweet to Jacks but is it weird she's willing to go to a random place with a random stranger? Is this guy too good to be true? Are there secrets their spouses were hiding? Ah! So many twists towards the end
I'll be honest the ending got me. I was not expecting that! It went in a WHOLE other direction from what I thought it would and bravo to the authors for that! Since i've read my share of mystery/suspense I feel like I tend to guess what way the author may go. I love it when books go in a totally different direction!
I can't wait to read Girls Night Out by Liz and Lisa coming out in July!
November 21, 2022
2 Stars
DNF @ 60%
I don't think this book should be classified as mystery/thriller. The writing was so repetitive and nothing really happened, at least nothing thrilling. WellvI lost my interest and quit... Hope you enjoy it more than me though!
DNF @ 60%
I don't think this book should be classified as mystery/thriller. The writing was so repetitive and nothing really happened, at least nothing thrilling. WellvI lost my interest and quit... Hope you enjoy it more than me though!
June 19, 2017
*2.5 stars
Well, to be honest, I didn't enjoy this like so many others have. After seeing great reviews from some of my Goodreads friends, I quickly requested this from Netgalley. I was hoping for a great suspense novel--I've been in such a thriller reading mood lately, but this did not live up to my expectations. Don't get me wrong, I thought this was well-written and very readable. There's no doubt that I will be reading more from these two authors. I'm just not sure it will be another suspense book. They did say this was their first foray into the mystery genre, so I definitely see potential.
I wouldn't even classify this as a suspense novel or a mystery. Only the last 15% was "suspenseful". Through most of the novel you follow Jacks, who just found out that her husband died with another woman. The fiance of the woman contacts Jacks and asks her to go to where they both died to find closure. So off to Hawaii they go. I loved that the book took place in Hawaii! How I wish to go back someday. Anyway, so most of the book you follow these two make their way through the final steps of the deceased. I don't know if this was suppose to be a romance, a suspense novel, or something in between? Like I said, this was readable but I was looking to escape into a suspenseful book and that's just not what I got. So I finished reading this a little disappointed and underwhelmed.
**Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Well, to be honest, I didn't enjoy this like so many others have. After seeing great reviews from some of my Goodreads friends, I quickly requested this from Netgalley. I was hoping for a great suspense novel--I've been in such a thriller reading mood lately, but this did not live up to my expectations. Don't get me wrong, I thought this was well-written and very readable. There's no doubt that I will be reading more from these two authors. I'm just not sure it will be another suspense book. They did say this was their first foray into the mystery genre, so I definitely see potential.
I wouldn't even classify this as a suspense novel or a mystery. Only the last 15% was "suspenseful". Through most of the novel you follow Jacks, who just found out that her husband died with another woman. The fiance of the woman contacts Jacks and asks her to go to where they both died to find closure. So off to Hawaii they go. I loved that the book took place in Hawaii! How I wish to go back someday. Anyway, so most of the book you follow these two make their way through the final steps of the deceased. I don't know if this was suppose to be a romance, a suspense novel, or something in between? Like I said, this was readable but I was looking to escape into a suspenseful book and that's just not what I got. So I finished reading this a little disappointed and underwhelmed.
**Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2017
Like the road to Hana…
This book went nowhere. It was very repetitious, had no real plot and after a lot of twisting and turning ended up back at the beginning. I found the ride boring after a while and when the book finally finished I wished I hadn't wasted all that time. No, I do not recommend taking the trip.
This book went nowhere. It was very repetitious, had no real plot and after a lot of twisting and turning ended up back at the beginning. I found the ride boring after a while and when the book finally finished I wished I hadn't wasted all that time. No, I do not recommend taking the trip.
February 26, 2020
Having read Fenton's 2nd and 3rd releases and really enjoying them, I decided to pick this one up in audiobook format. I really enjoyed this as a drama, but I believe it was meant to be marketed as a suspense or thriller, which it disappointingly definitely wasn't. Don't get me wrong, i was thoroughly engaged and wasn't bored at any time. I suppose you could call it a slow-burn mystery. There is a twist of sorts towards the end, and being a thriller fanatic I saw it coming a mile away, but this was definitely a solid debut novel. I have noticed each subsequent release of Fenton's has been better, which I enjoy seeing in a writer. I would recommend this to those that enjoy family dramas, romances and cozy mysteries.
March 16, 2017
WOW. Wow, wow, wow.
This is without a doubt one of my favorite books of the year. It is Neglect-Your-Children good. The suspense, the twists...I was trying to figure out the ending the entire time and I just did NOT see it coming. To read it and "watch" it unfold...like I said- I have no idea what my kids were doing, I just had to finish this book. I devoured it and ignored my kids...that right there tells you how damn good this one is. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.
I have been a fan of Liz and Lisa's books from the beginning and this is their best one yet. A Must Read for 2017.
This is without a doubt one of my favorite books of the year. It is Neglect-Your-Children good. The suspense, the twists...I was trying to figure out the ending the entire time and I just did NOT see it coming. To read it and "watch" it unfold...like I said- I have no idea what my kids were doing, I just had to finish this book. I devoured it and ignored my kids...that right there tells you how damn good this one is. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.
I have been a fan of Liz and Lisa's books from the beginning and this is their best one yet. A Must Read for 2017.
February 13, 2018
A predictable mystery about weak women making poor choices, and then surprised their loved ones weren't who they thought they were.
February 24, 2017
Dear Reader,
We are so excited for you to read our debut suspense novel! This one is very near and dear to our hearts, as it takes place in one of our favorite places-Maui! We hope you come to love Jacks as much as we did-that you appreciate the complexities of her quest for answers. Enjoy-and don't forget to let us know what you think! Thank you so much for your support.
We are so excited for you to read our debut suspense novel! This one is very near and dear to our hearts, as it takes place in one of our favorite places-Maui! We hope you come to love Jacks as much as we did-that you appreciate the complexities of her quest for answers. Enjoy-and don't forget to let us know what you think! Thank you so much for your support.
June 5, 2017
In the acknowledgements, the authors say "suspense is something we've been wanting to write for a long time". Well, they still haven't written suspense.
October 7, 2018
This was entertaining, but odd. The premise is that Jacqueline “Jacks” thinks she’s in a troubled but decent-enough marriage. So, when the cops show up and tell her that her husband is dead in a car accident in Maui, she’s devastated and confused. Jacks thought he was on a business trip in Kansas. When she learns that he was with a young woman, Dylan, the questions begin to swirl. Things get more complicated when Dylan’s fiancé, Nick, shows up, also filled with questions.
Nick suggests that he and Jacks go to Maui and recreate James’ and Dylan’s trip. Jacks thinks maybe the trip will bring her some closure, so she agrees. They don’t just go to Maui, they do all the activities that Dylan and James did, which forces Jacks to engage in things she’d normally be too scared to do. Obviously, this is an emotional journey for Jacks because she’d wanted to go to Hawaii for the honeymoon they never had and because she’s grieving her husband and perplexed by why he’d do this.
There are twists not just unraveling the mystery of how Dylan and James got together and where they might be going, but the it’s slowly revealed with the history of the relationship between James’ and Jacks’ marriage. However, I didn’t find it particularly suspenseful, so if that’s what you’re looking for, this book isn’t it.
For more reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
Nick suggests that he and Jacks go to Maui and recreate James’ and Dylan’s trip. Jacks thinks maybe the trip will bring her some closure, so she agrees. They don’t just go to Maui, they do all the activities that Dylan and James did, which forces Jacks to engage in things she’d normally be too scared to do. Obviously, this is an emotional journey for Jacks because she’d wanted to go to Hawaii for the honeymoon they never had and because she’s grieving her husband and perplexed by why he’d do this.
There are twists not just unraveling the mystery of how Dylan and James got together and where they might be going, but the it’s slowly revealed with the history of the relationship between James’ and Jacks’ marriage. However, I didn’t find it particularly suspenseful, so if that’s what you’re looking for, this book isn’t it.
For more reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
March 10, 2017
I was lucky enough to get my hands on a early copy of THE GOOD WIDOW and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
The writing is smart, but accessible, funny, and thoughtful. The pace is taut, but not so much that it feels forced. I really connected with the characters and their storylines - I don't want to say too much about the plot because it might give something away, but I will say this: They ring so true, like friends I would have in my own life, so reading about the intricacies of their relationships and the hurdles they have to overcome was almost like a good, long visit with a few of my friends.
Also, the twist at the end took me entirely by surprise, which is saying a lot, since I almost always guess them early in the story. I was super impressed by the sophiscated plot, and can't wait for others to read this one so we can talk about it!!!
Don't miss it!!!
The writing is smart, but accessible, funny, and thoughtful. The pace is taut, but not so much that it feels forced. I really connected with the characters and their storylines - I don't want to say too much about the plot because it might give something away, but I will say this: They ring so true, like friends I would have in my own life, so reading about the intricacies of their relationships and the hurdles they have to overcome was almost like a good, long visit with a few of my friends.
Also, the twist at the end took me entirely by surprise, which is saying a lot, since I almost always guess them early in the story. I was super impressed by the sophiscated plot, and can't wait for others to read this one so we can talk about it!!!
Don't miss it!!!
August 10, 2017
3.75 stars. Drama with a little suspense towards the end. Predictable but entertaining. More so because the audio narration was great and made a very long car trip more bearable.
April 3, 2017
THE GOOD WIDOW is both heartrending and suspenseful, deftly navigating Jack's mourning and the loss of her less-than-perfect marriage. The writing is sharp and evocative, the Hawaiian setting is spectacular, and the ending was a wonderful, twisty surprise. A quintessential summer beach read!
June 19, 2017
Wow!! What a great thriller! A shocking twist at the end too!!! Had me wanting more!
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