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The Testament of Harold's Wife
From award-winning author Lynne Hugo comes a witty, insightful, refreshingly unsentimental novel about one woman's unconventional path from heartbreak to hope....
After losing her husband, Harold, and her beloved grandson, Cody, within the past year, Louisa has two choices. She can fade away on her Indiana family farm, where her companionship comes courtesy of her aging chickens and an argumentative cat. Or, she can concoct A Plan. Louisa, a retired schoolteacher who's as smart, sassy, and irreverent as ever, isn't the fading away type.
The drunk driver who killed Cody got off scot-free by lying about a deer on the road. Harold had tried to take matters into his own hands but was thwarted by Gus, the local sheriff. Now Louisa decides to take up Harold's cause, though it will mean outsmarting Gus, who's developed an unwelcome crush on her, and staying ahead of her adult son who's found solace in a money-draining cult and terrible art.
Louisa's love of life is rekindled as the spring sun warms her cornfields and she goes into action. But even the most Perfect Plans can go awry. A wounded buck, and a teenage boy on the land she treasures help Louisa see that the enduring beauty of the natural world and the mystery of human connection are larger than revenge . . . and so is justice.
After losing her husband, Harold, and her beloved grandson, Cody, within the past year, Louisa has two choices. She can fade away on her Indiana family farm, where her companionship comes courtesy of her aging chickens and an argumentative cat. Or, she can concoct A Plan. Louisa, a retired schoolteacher who's as smart, sassy, and irreverent as ever, isn't the fading away type.
The drunk driver who killed Cody got off scot-free by lying about a deer on the road. Harold had tried to take matters into his own hands but was thwarted by Gus, the local sheriff. Now Louisa decides to take up Harold's cause, though it will mean outsmarting Gus, who's developed an unwelcome crush on her, and staying ahead of her adult son who's found solace in a money-draining cult and terrible art.
Louisa's love of life is rekindled as the spring sun warms her cornfields and she goes into action. But even the most Perfect Plans can go awry. A wounded buck, and a teenage boy on the land she treasures help Louisa see that the enduring beauty of the natural world and the mystery of human connection are larger than revenge . . . and so is justice.
240 pages, Paperback
First published September 25, 2018
389 people are currently reading
2440 people want to read
About the author
Lynne Hugo
19 books184 followersLynne Hugo is an American author whose roots are in the northeast. A National Endowment For The Arts Fellowship recipient, she has also received repeat individual artists grants from the Ohio Arts Council and the Kentucky Foundation for Women. Her publications include eight novels, one volume of creative non-fiction, two books of poetry and a children’s book. She lives with her husband, a former Vice President for Academic Affairs of a liberal arts college and now a professional photographer, in the Midwest. They have two grown children, three grandchildren, and a yellow Labrador retriever.
Ms. Hugo has taught creative writing to hundreds of schoolchildren through the Ohio Arts Council’s renowned Arts in Education program. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Connecticut College, and a Master’s from Miami University.
When an editor asked her to describe herself as a writer, she responded:
“I write in black Wal-Mart capri sweatpants. They don’t start out as capris, but I routinely shrink them in the drier by accident. And I always buy black because it doesn’t show where I’ve wiped the chocolate off my hands. Now that my son and daughter are grown, my previous high grade of ‘below average’ in Domestic Achievement has dropped somewhat. But I’m less guilty about it now. I lose myself in crafting language by a window with birdfeeders hanging in the branches of a Chinese elm towering over the house. When I come up for air, I hike by the ponds and along the river in a nearby forest with my beloved Lab. My husband, with whom I planted that elm as a bare root sapling, joins us when he can.”
Ms. Hugo has taught creative writing to hundreds of schoolchildren through the Ohio Arts Council’s renowned Arts in Education program. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Connecticut College, and a Master’s from Miami University.
When an editor asked her to describe herself as a writer, she responded:
“I write in black Wal-Mart capri sweatpants. They don’t start out as capris, but I routinely shrink them in the drier by accident. And I always buy black because it doesn’t show where I’ve wiped the chocolate off my hands. Now that my son and daughter are grown, my previous high grade of ‘below average’ in Domestic Achievement has dropped somewhat. But I’m less guilty about it now. I lose myself in crafting language by a window with birdfeeders hanging in the branches of a Chinese elm towering over the house. When I come up for air, I hike by the ponds and along the river in a nearby forest with my beloved Lab. My husband, with whom I planted that elm as a bare root sapling, joins us when he can.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
April 26, 2019
Louisa has quite the story to tell you. She’s lost her husband, Harold, and her grandson, Cody, within the past year. She can grieve her life away, or she can dust herself off and do something about it all. Louisa chooses the latter.
Cody was killed by a drunk driver, and Harold believed the driver was lying about a deer causing the accident. Harold had taken on the cause of proving it up until he passed away. Louisa takes this on as her own, even as the local sheriff, Gus, takes an unrequited interest in her.
Louisa also has to deal with her son who is throwing his money away on a cult and what he deems “art.”
Louisa finds a purpose again in unexpected ways amongst her beautiful farm, cat, and beloved chickens.
The Testament of Harold’s Wife is a quick read with plenty of depth. You can feel Louisa’s loss and thoughts on aging on every page; however, juxtaposed with that is her search for the silver linings and peace. There is humor and candor and humanity. I thought I would love the cat the most, but no, it was the chickens!
Overall, The Testament of Harold’s wife is about a quirky, fun grandmother walking through losses in an empowering way. She readily shows her tenacity, and the story brought out a mix of emotions, while ending on a high note. Overall, The Testament is as eccentric and clever as its main character!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
Cody was killed by a drunk driver, and Harold believed the driver was lying about a deer causing the accident. Harold had taken on the cause of proving it up until he passed away. Louisa takes this on as her own, even as the local sheriff, Gus, takes an unrequited interest in her.
Louisa also has to deal with her son who is throwing his money away on a cult and what he deems “art.”
Louisa finds a purpose again in unexpected ways amongst her beautiful farm, cat, and beloved chickens.
The Testament of Harold’s Wife is a quick read with plenty of depth. You can feel Louisa’s loss and thoughts on aging on every page; however, juxtaposed with that is her search for the silver linings and peace. There is humor and candor and humanity. I thought I would love the cat the most, but no, it was the chickens!
Overall, The Testament of Harold’s wife is about a quirky, fun grandmother walking through losses in an empowering way. She readily shows her tenacity, and the story brought out a mix of emotions, while ending on a high note. Overall, The Testament is as eccentric and clever as its main character!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
May 6, 2019
A Beautiful story about grief and hope, revenge and forgiveness.
This was an engaging story about a remarkable woman. Lynne Hugo has crafted a story that is both heart felt and humorous. After reading the blurb I thought this book would be a bit dark, but it was anything but. Miss Hugo did a great job of taking some serious subject matter and infusing it with humor and hope. There was such a sense of authenticity to the story and I could tell it was written with a loving hand. Lynne Hugo breathed life into these lovable quirky characters with her words and love.
Louisa is grieving not only did she lose her husband Harold to suicide, but she also lost her grandson to a drunk driver. Luisa has every right to wallow in her grief. BUT that’s not how Luisa rolls, she picks herself up and lives her best life. She does this for Harold, she does this for Cody, but most important of all she does this for herself. What follows is a lovely story about Louises quest for life and search for justice.
Louisa was such a sassy snarky character with a zest for life. Her strength and courage were admirable, and I enjoyed every single minute I spent with her. I loved her relationship with her animals especially the chickens. Seriously she had tea parties with these chickens and I didn’t even bat an eyelash, in fact I wanted to join them. I also enjoyed her relationship with her son who simultaneously completely captivated her heart and drove her nuts. Simply put this is a delightful story that will tug at your heart strings and make you smile.
*** thank you Kensington for my copy of this book ***
This was an engaging story about a remarkable woman. Lynne Hugo has crafted a story that is both heart felt and humorous. After reading the blurb I thought this book would be a bit dark, but it was anything but. Miss Hugo did a great job of taking some serious subject matter and infusing it with humor and hope. There was such a sense of authenticity to the story and I could tell it was written with a loving hand. Lynne Hugo breathed life into these lovable quirky characters with her words and love.
Louisa is grieving not only did she lose her husband Harold to suicide, but she also lost her grandson to a drunk driver. Luisa has every right to wallow in her grief. BUT that’s not how Luisa rolls, she picks herself up and lives her best life. She does this for Harold, she does this for Cody, but most important of all she does this for herself. What follows is a lovely story about Louises quest for life and search for justice.
Louisa was such a sassy snarky character with a zest for life. Her strength and courage were admirable, and I enjoyed every single minute I spent with her. I loved her relationship with her animals especially the chickens. Seriously she had tea parties with these chickens and I didn’t even bat an eyelash, in fact I wanted to join them. I also enjoyed her relationship with her son who simultaneously completely captivated her heart and drove her nuts. Simply put this is a delightful story that will tug at your heart strings and make you smile.
*** thank you Kensington for my copy of this book ***
October 20, 2018
Louisa has a choice. In the past year, a driver struck and killed her grandson and her husband died by suicide. She can either resign to life on her farm with her temperamental cat and agreeable chickens or she can get a Plan. Louisa knows the driver who killed her Cody was drunk, even as the Court bought his story. And she knows her Harold tried to get even with him, but the Sheriff deterred him at every move. But a Plan of her own might bring some peace … and revenge sounds better and better every day.
Author Lynne Hugo has produced an incredibly powerful novel focusing on the beauty and tragedy of aging and grief. The personal loss of the main character, Louisa, is evident on each page, but she balances this with the humor and self-awareness only possible with someone comfortable with their life. Louisa can be a jumbled narrator, which she readily admits, but therein lies her charm. While forefront in her mind is the need to exact revenge, she also hosts tea parties with her chickens and battles with her son’ favorite artwork: a glitter Jesus. In a less mature character, these scenes would be absurd, but Hugo writes with such authority that they are touching and real.
This is a relatively quick read without a ton of action. Louisa is introspective, typically plotting over the phone with her sister and navigating everyday life after tragedy. However, Hugo gleans everything from these reflective moments and her prose elevates scenes as simple as feeding chickens into something special. Louisa and, in turn, this book provide so much wisdom on life.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Author Lynne Hugo has produced an incredibly powerful novel focusing on the beauty and tragedy of aging and grief. The personal loss of the main character, Louisa, is evident on each page, but she balances this with the humor and self-awareness only possible with someone comfortable with their life. Louisa can be a jumbled narrator, which she readily admits, but therein lies her charm. While forefront in her mind is the need to exact revenge, she also hosts tea parties with her chickens and battles with her son’ favorite artwork: a glitter Jesus. In a less mature character, these scenes would be absurd, but Hugo writes with such authority that they are touching and real.
This is a relatively quick read without a ton of action. Louisa is introspective, typically plotting over the phone with her sister and navigating everyday life after tragedy. However, Hugo gleans everything from these reflective moments and her prose elevates scenes as simple as feeding chickens into something special. Louisa and, in turn, this book provide so much wisdom on life.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
July 27, 2020
3.5 (not quite a 4) stars...
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY - STARS Rounded up to 4: It's hard to be funny, this worked well.
Recommend for women over 35.
Stuck in the grieving process, six months after her husband Harold dies. Louisa and her three favorite chickens and cat pass the time drinking Bourbon in her kitchen and 'hatching' a plot to take away something important from the unconvicted drunk driver, who killed her grandson, Cody.
This is an entertaining story of the challenges facing Louisa, now alone on her farm with only her somewhat off the wall son, Gary, who has turned to religion for answers and her sister, now living in Georgia far from their home of Indiana for comfort. Their back and forth is a delight and funny as is her conversations with Amy, Beth and Jo are sure to bring a smile to your face. Unfortunately for us, we never meet Meg, she passed away before we meet her from a chicken condition.
Louisa is quite the creative one, doing dangerous reconnaissance in preparation for creating an opportunity for retribution, while needing urgently to pee. Oh, how I love this woman! When she puts things in action, they don't quite go according to plan but lets say she is still happy in the end. I can't quite rate this a 4 but I seriously enjoyed it the entire way through and found the ending very satisfying and Louisa on her way to more constructive experiences without Bourbon.
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY - STARS Rounded up to 4: It's hard to be funny, this worked well.
Recommend for women over 35.
Stuck in the grieving process, six months after her husband Harold dies. Louisa and her three favorite chickens and cat pass the time drinking Bourbon in her kitchen and 'hatching' a plot to take away something important from the unconvicted drunk driver, who killed her grandson, Cody.
This is an entertaining story of the challenges facing Louisa, now alone on her farm with only her somewhat off the wall son, Gary, who has turned to religion for answers and her sister, now living in Georgia far from their home of Indiana for comfort. Their back and forth is a delight and funny as is her conversations with Amy, Beth and Jo are sure to bring a smile to your face. Unfortunately for us, we never meet Meg, she passed away before we meet her from a chicken condition.
Louisa is quite the creative one, doing dangerous reconnaissance in preparation for creating an opportunity for retribution, while needing urgently to pee. Oh, how I love this woman! When she puts things in action, they don't quite go according to plan but lets say she is still happy in the end. I can't quite rate this a 4 but I seriously enjoyed it the entire way through and found the ending very satisfying and Louisa on her way to more constructive experiences without Bourbon.
August 13, 2019
I'm going to have fun with this review. Why? Because I am Harold's Wife and this is my Testament about this book.
Louisa is a widow that lives in Rossville Indiana. She lives in a farm environment and her best friends are three chickens, Jo, Beth and Amy and her haughty tuxedo cat, Marvelle. Her grandson, Cody, has been killed by a drunk driver, who, because of a good lawyer and sketchy evidence , has got off scott-free. Louisa's husband, Harold, tried to bring the driver, Larry Ellis, to justice. It is not clear how Harold was trying to do that, but he became frustrated, and ended up taking his own life. That left Louisa and the chickens to bring the justice.
Other characters are Gary, an over-zealous minister, who is Louisa's son, and CarolSue, Louisa's sister. And let's not forget Gus, the local sheriff, who has the hots for Louisa and thwarted all of Harold's attempts at justice.
Of course, you can tell I was drawn to the book by the title and the Indiana location. (I was born in Indiana and even tho I now live in Florida, I will always be a Hoosier).
A quaint and entertaining book. In the end, tho, I did not really identify with Louisa!!
Book was about 3.75 stars and so will round it up to 4.
Louisa is a widow that lives in Rossville Indiana. She lives in a farm environment and her best friends are three chickens, Jo, Beth and Amy and her haughty tuxedo cat, Marvelle. Her grandson, Cody, has been killed by a drunk driver, who, because of a good lawyer and sketchy evidence , has got off scott-free. Louisa's husband, Harold, tried to bring the driver, Larry Ellis, to justice. It is not clear how Harold was trying to do that, but he became frustrated, and ended up taking his own life. That left Louisa and the chickens to bring the justice.
Other characters are Gary, an over-zealous minister, who is Louisa's son, and CarolSue, Louisa's sister. And let's not forget Gus, the local sheriff, who has the hots for Louisa and thwarted all of Harold's attempts at justice.
Of course, you can tell I was drawn to the book by the title and the Indiana location. (I was born in Indiana and even tho I now live in Florida, I will always be a Hoosier).
A quaint and entertaining book. In the end, tho, I did not really identify with Louisa!!
Book was about 3.75 stars and so will round it up to 4.
October 14, 2018
What a little treasure this book is: it will make you laugh, it will make you cry. And you will not regret spending time with The Testament of Harold's Wife by Lynne Hugo. Louisa is Harold's wife. She has lost her grandson Cody, who was killed by a drunken driver. Larry has been found not guilty of this crime because he claimed he swerved to avoid hitting a deer. Louisa has also lost her husband Harold. She spends most of her days with her cat and chickens which are named after the sisters in Little Women. She finds herself needing revenge for the loss of her grandson and husband. She meticulously plots how to get back at Larry, a plan which occupies her days and nights. You need to read the book to find out how all that planning and plotting works out. This novel brings out all kinds of emotions: anger, loss, sorrow, revenge, laughter and hope in the future, no matter what. A great read. Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2018
I just love this book. Louisa has a great life until a drunk driver kills her only grandson and the drunk driver gets away with it. Her loving husband Harold can't stand living without his grandson and blames himself for not picking him up at school the day he was killed. Harold ends up killing himself. Louisa has an only son Gary whom she has a love hate relationship with. This book will make you laugh out loud and cry the next moment. Louisa has a PLOT to get revenge on Larry the drunk driver that killed her grandson and drove her husband to commit suicide. The ending is a surprise. The drunk driver reaps what he sows. A must read. Highly recommend.
April 1, 2019
So let me introduce you to Harold’s wife, Louisa. She’s got her friends - a pack of chickens named after the girls in Little Women, a cat who has a taste for bourbon, and a sister who never judges and that she can tell anything to - no matter how crazy or bizarre.
What she doesn’t have anymore is her husband Harold, gone too soon and unexpectedly. And gone even more untimely, and even more suddenly - her grandson Cody - killed at the hand of a drunk driver. Harold wanted nothing more than revenge on the man who killed Cody, and Louis is determined, along with the unwavering support of her critter housemates, to finish what Harold started.
This book sounds dark.. but it’s not. It sounds serious and sad, but it isn’t. This was such a fun book to read, and a clever story to follow - and I fell in love with Louisa! Her fierce loyalty to the loved ones she’s lost, her undying love of all creatures and her brutal honesty and witty chit chat with them had me cracking up throughout. Her calculated plans to accomplish vengeance on the man who essentially snatched pieces of her heart are cunning, inventive and endearing and I was entertained from start to finish.
Thank you to Lynne Hugo, Suzy Approved Book Tours, and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this fantastic novel of both heartbreak, and humor.
What she doesn’t have anymore is her husband Harold, gone too soon and unexpectedly. And gone even more untimely, and even more suddenly - her grandson Cody - killed at the hand of a drunk driver. Harold wanted nothing more than revenge on the man who killed Cody, and Louis is determined, along with the unwavering support of her critter housemates, to finish what Harold started.
This book sounds dark.. but it’s not. It sounds serious and sad, but it isn’t. This was such a fun book to read, and a clever story to follow - and I fell in love with Louisa! Her fierce loyalty to the loved ones she’s lost, her undying love of all creatures and her brutal honesty and witty chit chat with them had me cracking up throughout. Her calculated plans to accomplish vengeance on the man who essentially snatched pieces of her heart are cunning, inventive and endearing and I was entertained from start to finish.
Thank you to Lynne Hugo, Suzy Approved Book Tours, and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this fantastic novel of both heartbreak, and humor.
November 1, 2018
This is my first Lynne Hugo book but after reading this, I'll definitely order some of her older books. This fantastic book had a quirky grandmother as the main character who made me laugh and who I cheered for throughout the book.
Louisa is alone on the family farm in Indiana. Her beloved grandson had been killed by a drunk driver and then her husband committed suicide at the same place on the highway. The driver who killed her grandson wasn't charged because he claimed that a deer caused him to swerve. Louisa decides that she needs revenge against the driver and with the help of her sister, she works to come up with the perfect plan. Louisa's closest companions are the chickens that live in her house - named after the sisters in Little Women - and the cat that she talks to all of the time. She loves her tea - with a splash of bourbon in it and is a fantastic character. You can feel the grief in her life but can't help but applaud her as she concocts her plan of revenge.
I loved this book because of Louisa. She was a fantastic character who was aware of her age and her situation. She was eccentric and tenacious - she'll make you laugh and make you cry but the whole time you'll be aware that she's a character you won't soon forget.
Louisa is alone on the family farm in Indiana. Her beloved grandson had been killed by a drunk driver and then her husband committed suicide at the same place on the highway. The driver who killed her grandson wasn't charged because he claimed that a deer caused him to swerve. Louisa decides that she needs revenge against the driver and with the help of her sister, she works to come up with the perfect plan. Louisa's closest companions are the chickens that live in her house - named after the sisters in Little Women - and the cat that she talks to all of the time. She loves her tea - with a splash of bourbon in it and is a fantastic character. You can feel the grief in her life but can't help but applaud her as she concocts her plan of revenge.
I loved this book because of Louisa. She was a fantastic character who was aware of her age and her situation. She was eccentric and tenacious - she'll make you laugh and make you cry but the whole time you'll be aware that she's a character you won't soon forget.
August 15, 2020
I gave this 3 stars, because I liked the story and the premise behind what happens to a family in the wake of tragedy. I guess with all that is going on in our world right now the emotions revealed in Louisa and Gary even Harold as told by Louisa makes you think how families and friends cope with loss. There were some funny moments and the chickens and cat helped in a way that proves how important animals can be in our lives. Overall a good book showing that hope may prevail.
June 18, 2021
"Get yourself some tea with a big splash of bourbon and I'll tell you the rest of the story. But be patient; there are some things you need to hear first. You know, I have to tell a story in my own way."
-Lynne Hugo, The Testament of Harold's Wife
LOVE. What an absolute treat of a book! The writing is incredibly beautiful and REAL. There were so many times a line or a phrase was so authentic, so intensely relatable, that if felt as if the author had reached in and pulled it right out of my head. It takes a great talent to have that much depth to your writing and characters. To create a space or a person that you actually forget isn't real.
An excellent read for lovers of character-driven stories - themes of grief, reinvention, family, justice, served with a healthy helping of bourbon and animals named after literary characters. I would recommend this to EVERYONE. :)
-Lynne Hugo, The Testament of Harold's Wife
LOVE. What an absolute treat of a book! The writing is incredibly beautiful and REAL. There were so many times a line or a phrase was so authentic, so intensely relatable, that if felt as if the author had reached in and pulled it right out of my head. It takes a great talent to have that much depth to your writing and characters. To create a space or a person that you actually forget isn't real.
An excellent read for lovers of character-driven stories - themes of grief, reinvention, family, justice, served with a healthy helping of bourbon and animals named after literary characters. I would recommend this to EVERYONE. :)
April 29, 2019
"Here's one thing I know: life changes us in ways we never foresee. It even sends our hearts to places we were once determined not to go."
I thought a lot about choices as I read this book. How our choices affect so many more people than just ourselves. When Louisa loses her grandson in a drunk driving accident and her husband a few months later to his own grief, she needs to make a choice. Louisa is a quirky, incredibly strong woman. I couldn't help but feel her sorrow as she struggled with her own grief and how to overcome the devastating losses of those she loved most.
I thought a lot about choices as I read this book. How our choices affect so many more people than just ourselves. When Louisa loses her grandson in a drunk driving accident and her husband a few months later to his own grief, she needs to make a choice. Louisa is a quirky, incredibly strong woman. I couldn't help but feel her sorrow as she struggled with her own grief and how to overcome the devastating losses of those she loved most.
November 9, 2018
Lindas Book Obsession Reviews “The Testament of Harold’s Wife” by Lynne Hugo Kensington, Sept. 25, 2018
Lynne Hugo, Author of “The Testament of Harold’s Wife” has written an unusual, emotional, intriguing, riveting, captivating and intense novel. Also in this unique story is some satire and wit. The Genres for this story are Fiction, Women’s Fiction. The timeline for this story is the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events in the story. The author describes her quirky, dysfunctional and unstable characters as complicated and complex.
Louisa is an older woman, and has dealt with the deaths of her grandson Cody and her husband Harold. Louisa blames Larry, the drunken man who ran Cody over, and said that he thought it was a deer. Larry is walking around as a free man. Louisa also blames Larry for the death of Harold who failed in carrying out his plans for revenge against Larry.
Is it for Justice or Revenge? Louisa lives on a large farm, and her best friends are her chickens and temperamental cat. Often they have “tea” parties with a little bourbon to discuss the issues on hand. Louisa is determined to carry on with Harry’s Plans to take care of Larry. Her only obstacles are Gus, the sheriff, who keeps checking up on her, and her son, who is looking to see if Louisa has lost her marbles. Louisa’s son Gary seems to be looking for some sense of purpose, and he has found some help from Jesus. Louisa does have a wicked sense of humor trying to keep her son off her tracks.
Now Louisa is a retired teacher, and knows that she has to study her subject to continue with this plan. How is Louisa going to manage this? One thing Louisa does know is Larry is a trophy hunter and kills deer. How is she going to use these facts to help her plan?
I appreciate how the author describes the plants and animal life that make up Louisa’s life. The beauty of nature that surrounds Louisa is amazing. It is nice to see how Louisa does appreciate the environment. I would recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a thought-provoking story with wit and satire. Happy Reading !!!
Edit
PUBLISHED BY LINDASBOOKOBSESSION
Lynne Hugo, Author of “The Testament of Harold’s Wife” has written an unusual, emotional, intriguing, riveting, captivating and intense novel. Also in this unique story is some satire and wit. The Genres for this story are Fiction, Women’s Fiction. The timeline for this story is the present and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events in the story. The author describes her quirky, dysfunctional and unstable characters as complicated and complex.
Louisa is an older woman, and has dealt with the deaths of her grandson Cody and her husband Harold. Louisa blames Larry, the drunken man who ran Cody over, and said that he thought it was a deer. Larry is walking around as a free man. Louisa also blames Larry for the death of Harold who failed in carrying out his plans for revenge against Larry.
Is it for Justice or Revenge? Louisa lives on a large farm, and her best friends are her chickens and temperamental cat. Often they have “tea” parties with a little bourbon to discuss the issues on hand. Louisa is determined to carry on with Harry’s Plans to take care of Larry. Her only obstacles are Gus, the sheriff, who keeps checking up on her, and her son, who is looking to see if Louisa has lost her marbles. Louisa’s son Gary seems to be looking for some sense of purpose, and he has found some help from Jesus. Louisa does have a wicked sense of humor trying to keep her son off her tracks.
Now Louisa is a retired teacher, and knows that she has to study her subject to continue with this plan. How is Louisa going to manage this? One thing Louisa does know is Larry is a trophy hunter and kills deer. How is she going to use these facts to help her plan?
I appreciate how the author describes the plants and animal life that make up Louisa’s life. The beauty of nature that surrounds Louisa is amazing. It is nice to see how Louisa does appreciate the environment. I would recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a thought-provoking story with wit and satire. Happy Reading !!!
Edit
PUBLISHED BY LINDASBOOKOBSESSION
October 31, 2018
My review is now posted on The New York Journal of Books:
https://www.nyjournalofbooks.com/book...
https://www.nyjournalofbooks.com/book...
May 1, 2019
The Testament of Harold’s Wife is an insightful, cleverly written story about a woman who is grieving the devastating losses of her grandson and husband, just six months apart. There were times that I laughed out loud, and times that my heart broke in two. I loved that the chapters featuring Louisa felt like chatting with an old friend who was taking you into her confidence. Louisa is quirky yet practical; her love for her family, her chickens, and the deer on her property filled the pages of this book.
December 22, 2018
Oh my, what a wonderful book!! This is the PERFECT beach read... I finished it in a couple of days while on vacation in the Dominican, sunning on the beach with a fruity umbrella'd drink by my side. I haven't had a book make me smile and laugh this much in a long time! Glitter Jesus... I won't say more, READ IT... but oh my gosh... so funny!! It's beautifully and cleverly written; witty and so original!
Lynne Hugo has developed a wonderful cast of characters, with the somewhat eccentric but loveable Louisa at the centre. Each of Louisa's relationships - sister, son, husband, grandson, and Gus - are unique and unforgettable. The author successfully meshes the sad and happy bits into a great story.
Then there are the hilarious conversations Louisa has with her cat and chickens - you have to read it to truly appreciate it!
This is a refreshing read, one of few I will re-read, next time bookmarking every memorable quote.
Lynne Hugo has developed a wonderful cast of characters, with the somewhat eccentric but loveable Louisa at the centre. Each of Louisa's relationships - sister, son, husband, grandson, and Gus - are unique and unforgettable. The author successfully meshes the sad and happy bits into a great story.
Then there are the hilarious conversations Louisa has with her cat and chickens - you have to read it to truly appreciate it!
This is a refreshing read, one of few I will re-read, next time bookmarking every memorable quote.
March 21, 2019
I want to thank Suzy Approved Book Tours and Kensington Publishing for sending me a copy of this book. I absolutely loved the characters, the story, the twists and turns. I fell in love with Louisa. She is quite a character. She’s snarky, and nutty, and loving, and hurt, and healing, and caring, and grateful, and vengeful. Her grandson was killed by a drunk driver and then her husband committed suicide because of his grief. Now she wants to enact her revenge on the killer, who she feels didn’t get the proper punishment. She loves her chickens and her son, who drives her nuts, and her sister, who is her voice of reason. It really is a story about healing...and also what happens when you don’t heal. Beautiful book.
I recommend this book.
I recommend this book.
July 5, 2018
Lynne Hugo's delightful page turner, The TESTAMENT of HAROLD's WIFE is face paced, unexpectedly poignant, and fun. Louisa's utterly winning voice propels us at breakneck speed. As a woman who has seen it all and lost it all, Louisa will take her place in the pantheon of unforgettable characters. You may never see an older woman in quite the same way again. This gorgeous book with its swiftly moving plot and subversive humor will stay with you long after you have finished the final page.
November 8, 2018
Four and a half stars.
This book came to my attention almost accidentally - it was recommended by an author whose writing I enjoy, it was on sale, so... I picked it up almost on a whim. I'm so glad that I did.
Written primarily in Louisa's voice, it is a book both touching and amusing. Bereaved twice, and keeping company primarily with her chickens, Louisa has just the right touch of crusty and tender. I could aspire to be a little more like Louisa.
This book came to my attention almost accidentally - it was recommended by an author whose writing I enjoy, it was on sale, so... I picked it up almost on a whim. I'm so glad that I did.
Written primarily in Louisa's voice, it is a book both touching and amusing. Bereaved twice, and keeping company primarily with her chickens, Louisa has just the right touch of crusty and tender. I could aspire to be a little more like Louisa.
February 7, 2018
THE TESTAMENT OF HAROLD’S WIFE is an unforgettable novel of tragedy, resilience, and a kick-ass, grieving widow and grandmother. I laughed, cried, and cheered as Louisa talked to her pet chickens, splashed bourbon in her tea, and wrestled with revenge. I also loved the connection between Louisa and the deer on her farm, and who could forget Glitter Jesus? The story and the heroine are unique.
June 8, 2018
I found this book difficult to follow and the story rather confusing I pushed myself to read as much as possible but could only make it through 20% and I had to stop. I just can't recommend it.
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October 25, 2018DNF -- too much of the story was about chickens.
August 10, 2018
A few years ago, I reviewed a book called Remember My Beauties. It was good, and I was happily surprised when the author, Lynne Hugo, stopped by to comment on the review and also replied to the commenters! Lynne e-mailed me recently, alerting me to her latest, The Testament of Harold's Wife. She hoped I'd review it, and thanks to how much I'd enjoyed "Beauties," I was happy to (thanks, NetGalley, for the preview e-copy).
The Testament of Harold's Wife is told in chapters, each from a different character's point of view. That's fitting, I think, because one of my favorite things about Lynne's books is the way she builds her characters. They always seem very real to me. The main character in this book, not surprisingly, is Harold's wife -- Louisa.
Harold has died (warning that there are a few spoilers here) -- a drunk driver killed his and Louisa's teenage grandson. A few months later, unable to get over his grief, Harold commits suicide. This leaves Louisa alone and struggling with all the aftermath. She also has an adult son, who is dealing with his grief over the death of his son by turning to religion and becoming the pastor of a strip mall-type church.
Louisa is "elderly," although that term doesn't really seem to fit this woman. She's an independent spitfire who knows how to get things done. She makes her chickens into pets of a sort, inviting them into the house for part of the day and talking with them (charmingly, she has named them Amy, Jo, Meg, and Beth). She hatches a plan to get revenge on the drunk driver who started her family's tragedies, and the book largely deals with her machinations.
But -- for me at least, this book is more about the characters and the ways they change -- and don't -- than about the story itself. How do different people deal with grief in different ways? Can someone move on after grief, and what are some ways that people do this? How do people change over the course of a life? Those are some questions these characters explore.
Quotes from Louisa
* "All of us are old, I suppose. My mind rebels at the word. Old is something that I once thought I'd never have to worry about because time took forever to pass."
* "I'm not myself. I don't know who I am, though. Once I was a teacher, even if I did have trouble sticking to the curriculum, which wasn't challenging enough, and was considered mouthy by the administration. And once I was a mother and a grandmother and a farm wife. Now I'm none of those. I've been aimlessly looking for the point of my remaining life somewhere between the canned soup and the boxed macaroni and cheese in my cupboard. Once upon a time I cooked meals, you see, but I have no interest in that anymore."
* "He (Louisa's son Gary) had on a red shirt I didn't recognize. There was a time I knew all his clothes. There was a time he sat on my lap and I'd read him stories until my legs went numb. There was a time I thought I could never stand to be apart from him."
* "If you're ever old and alone and you've lost everything, you'll talk to animals or birds, too, at least one. If you're smart, that is. Don't be fooled about me; I know exactly what I'm doing."
* "The boy wasn't Cody (Louisa's deceased grandson), but he was a boy and I could love him and other boys, bless their wild hearts, bless the yet-unlit Independence Day fireworks of their lives, and I could be grateful that there are still boys in the world with wild hearts and dangerous, glorious futures. Maybe I can be of use. Maybe I can watch out for some of them."
See? Louisa is a character I really enjoyed spending time with. You might as well!
The Testament of Harold's Wife is told in chapters, each from a different character's point of view. That's fitting, I think, because one of my favorite things about Lynne's books is the way she builds her characters. They always seem very real to me. The main character in this book, not surprisingly, is Harold's wife -- Louisa.
Harold has died (warning that there are a few spoilers here) -- a drunk driver killed his and Louisa's teenage grandson. A few months later, unable to get over his grief, Harold commits suicide. This leaves Louisa alone and struggling with all the aftermath. She also has an adult son, who is dealing with his grief over the death of his son by turning to religion and becoming the pastor of a strip mall-type church.
Louisa is "elderly," although that term doesn't really seem to fit this woman. She's an independent spitfire who knows how to get things done. She makes her chickens into pets of a sort, inviting them into the house for part of the day and talking with them (charmingly, she has named them Amy, Jo, Meg, and Beth). She hatches a plan to get revenge on the drunk driver who started her family's tragedies, and the book largely deals with her machinations.
But -- for me at least, this book is more about the characters and the ways they change -- and don't -- than about the story itself. How do different people deal with grief in different ways? Can someone move on after grief, and what are some ways that people do this? How do people change over the course of a life? Those are some questions these characters explore.
Quotes from Louisa
* "All of us are old, I suppose. My mind rebels at the word. Old is something that I once thought I'd never have to worry about because time took forever to pass."
* "I'm not myself. I don't know who I am, though. Once I was a teacher, even if I did have trouble sticking to the curriculum, which wasn't challenging enough, and was considered mouthy by the administration. And once I was a mother and a grandmother and a farm wife. Now I'm none of those. I've been aimlessly looking for the point of my remaining life somewhere between the canned soup and the boxed macaroni and cheese in my cupboard. Once upon a time I cooked meals, you see, but I have no interest in that anymore."
* "He (Louisa's son Gary) had on a red shirt I didn't recognize. There was a time I knew all his clothes. There was a time he sat on my lap and I'd read him stories until my legs went numb. There was a time I thought I could never stand to be apart from him."
* "If you're ever old and alone and you've lost everything, you'll talk to animals or birds, too, at least one. If you're smart, that is. Don't be fooled about me; I know exactly what I'm doing."
* "The boy wasn't Cody (Louisa's deceased grandson), but he was a boy and I could love him and other boys, bless their wild hearts, bless the yet-unlit Independence Day fireworks of their lives, and I could be grateful that there are still boys in the world with wild hearts and dangerous, glorious futures. Maybe I can be of use. Maybe I can watch out for some of them."
See? Louisa is a character I really enjoyed spending time with. You might as well!
August 17, 2018
Louisa and Harold lost their grandson, Cody, to a drunk driver. When the drunk driver beats the charges by claiming a deer caused the accident, Harold was determined to seek revenge and make sure that justice is served. Harold's efforts were constantly being impeded by Gus, the local sheriff. Not soon after Cody's death, Harold also loses his life and Louisa is left a broken women with only her chickens and her cat to keep her company. She decides that she must continue Harold's work and comes up with a plan to finally seek revenge on the man that took everything from her. And let's face it, there is nothing to stop a broken woman.
It took me a while to become completely invested in this novel but it definitely earns points for originality and it became more intriguing the further I read. We travel with Louisa in her journey to take revenge on the man who tore her life apart. Sometimes she seems as crazy as a loon, but can we blame her? The novel is told through alternating perspectives so we also get a glimpse into the viewpoints of the other characters. This is a definite plus and adds depth to the story.
I went back and forth between a 3 and a 4 for this one but decided on a solid 4 star rating. It was entertaining to say the least and definitely worth reading. And, as an added note, I love the title.
I received this book through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Netgalley.com, to Kensington Publishing Corporation, and to Lynne Hugo for this opportunity.
It took me a while to become completely invested in this novel but it definitely earns points for originality and it became more intriguing the further I read. We travel with Louisa in her journey to take revenge on the man who tore her life apart. Sometimes she seems as crazy as a loon, but can we blame her? The novel is told through alternating perspectives so we also get a glimpse into the viewpoints of the other characters. This is a definite plus and adds depth to the story.
I went back and forth between a 3 and a 4 for this one but decided on a solid 4 star rating. It was entertaining to say the least and definitely worth reading. And, as an added note, I love the title.
I received this book through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Netgalley.com, to Kensington Publishing Corporation, and to Lynne Hugo for this opportunity.
October 2, 2018
The Testament of Harold's Wife captured my heart and imagination from page one. At first I wanted to BE Louisa with all her sass and humour and animal friends. (I came close to running out and buying a few chickens after the first meeting but then I thought about the whole divorce thing that would follow and .... no chickens) Her antics made me laugh out loud... and then cry out loud. I loved that Louisa remains the centre of the story but not at the expense of other, well developed characters. Lynne Hugo does a fabulous job of starting with strong, relatable characters who grow and develop as the story unfolds. And what a story. As readers. we are taken through a study on family, grief and retribution that is never maudlin or dark but always honest and full of laugh-out-loud moments and personal struggle. As I was reading I kept trying to imagine an ending that would do the book and the characters justice. I did not once imagine the ending that Ms Hugo wrote. It was eminently satisfying. The Testament of Harold's Wife has earned a place on my favourites list and in my heart. My life and outlook have been tweaked just a tad because I read this book. I'm not much for bourbon but I might need to run out and stock up on tea and gin. Best book I have read in a long time.
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May 2, 2019Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours @kensingtonbooks for gifting me a copy to review. The Testament of Harold's Wife by @lynnehugoauthor follows Louisa, a retired teacher who has recently experienced profound loss. Her son was struck and killed by a driver trying to avoid a deer. Harold, her late husband was vowing to prove that it was a drunk driver who indeed struck him. Harold dies by his own hand and Luisa is left with nothing but her grief and her farm animal friends. Her story becomes an examination of grief and how she chooses to navigate her new normal. Just over 200 pages and filled with quirky humor and charm, those who like character driven stories that explore the human condition will enjoy this little gem!
November 23, 2018
What a gem of a book. I found this by accident on the library’s new books shelf and I’m so glad I picked it up. This story had heartfelt characters and true emotion with just the right amount of wit and dry humor. There were also moments of profoundness about life’s big questions and the writing was lovely.
November 15, 2018
"Get yourself some tea with a big splash of bourbon and I'll tell you the rest of the story." It's words like these that will have you feeling like you are personally sitting at Louisa's farm kitchen table listening to her tell you all about her Plan to get revenge on the man who hit and killed her grandson because he was driving drunk. Now don't be shocked if you have a cat drink some of your tea or if you have a chicken walk between your legs while Louisa tells you all about how her husband committed suicide after he tried unsuccessfully to achieve his own revenge on this man. Yes, you will feel Louisa's anger and sadness at these depressing events but Louisa will also have you in chuckles as she shares funny stories about Glitter Jesus, a relentless prayer chain, and a very comfortable pair of shoes that unfortunately have one surprising drawback. Life at this retired school teacher's house is never dull. Since I'm a teacher myself, I was drawn to the line, "Teachers know how to look things up, and how to make long-range plans." If you read this book, you will discover that Louisa does have quite the Plan. It's really fun to see how this Plan evolves and twists throughout the course of the book. You will find that this book is full of original ideas and has a strong "voice." Louisa has so many clever and witty comments throughout the book that she really does come alive in your mind. I received a copy of this book from the author in an author Facebook giveaway. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed in this review are honest and heartfelt.
October 13, 2018
I greatly enjoyed this bittersweet story. It took me a little while to get into because it can seem a bit mysterious and scattered in the beginning. But, as the reader, you come to realize that's because the mind you are following (Louisa's) is both of those things in the beginning. As The Plan takes shape, so does she. Louisa's voice is so clear and true-to-character that she has a realness which escapes many contemporary fiction characters. Her thoughts read just as they would truly come to mind. There were many points while reading that I felt myself smile a little bit at her words even though their truth was so heartbreaking. I wasn't sure about Louisa addressing the reader at first but it really works well here.
The prose itself is lovely without being stuffy, as seen here in one of my favorite lines: "it was a butter-soft twilight, clear, peach-colored, beautiful and edgeless". The plot built really well; it's not an action-packed book but I still couldn't put it down after the 2/3rds mark. I was so invested in The Plan, I had to see it come to whatever fruition it may. All of the characters really add to the story as well, even the ones you want to strangle in frustration, and I was pleased to see development in side characters as well as in Louisa herself. And the ending, it's simply perfect. I highly recommend this book.
Note: I received a free Kindle edition of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher Kensington Books, and the author Lynne Hugo for the opportunity to do so.
The prose itself is lovely without being stuffy, as seen here in one of my favorite lines: "it was a butter-soft twilight, clear, peach-colored, beautiful and edgeless". The plot built really well; it's not an action-packed book but I still couldn't put it down after the 2/3rds mark. I was so invested in The Plan, I had to see it come to whatever fruition it may. All of the characters really add to the story as well, even the ones you want to strangle in frustration, and I was pleased to see development in side characters as well as in Louisa herself. And the ending, it's simply perfect. I highly recommend this book.
Note: I received a free Kindle edition of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher Kensington Books, and the author Lynne Hugo for the opportunity to do so.
October 24, 2018
A dry read on the surface that is meant to make you think of deeper things.
Coming through the stages of grief at the unjust death of her grandson Cody that led to her husband Harold committing suicide and her only son, Gary, turning to religion leaves Louisa to sort out where she goes from here.
As her focus changes from her chickens and cats to seeking revenge on Larry for the death of Cody, experiencing her sister CarolSue's struggle with her husband's cancer after helping Louise through the loss of Harold brings an awakening to Louisa.
Reading guide and discussion questions for a book club are included in this novel.
Coming through the stages of grief at the unjust death of her grandson Cody that led to her husband Harold committing suicide and her only son, Gary, turning to religion leaves Louisa to sort out where she goes from here.
As her focus changes from her chickens and cats to seeking revenge on Larry for the death of Cody, experiencing her sister CarolSue's struggle with her husband's cancer after helping Louise through the loss of Harold brings an awakening to Louisa.
Reading guide and discussion questions for a book club are included in this novel.
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