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Joseph O'Loughlin #9
The Other Wife
Childhood sweethearts William and Mary have been married for sixty years. William is a celebrated surgeon, Mary a devoted wife. Both have a strong sense of right and wrong.
This is what their son, Joe O'Loughlin, has always believed. But when Joe is summoned to the hospital with news that his father has been brutally attacked, his world is turned upside down. Who is the strange woman crying at William's bedside, covered in his blood - a friend, a mistress, a fantasist or a killer?
Against the advice of the police, Joe launches his own investigation. As he learns more, he discovers sides to his father he never knew - and is forcibly reminded that the truth comes at a price.
This is what their son, Joe O'Loughlin, has always believed. But when Joe is summoned to the hospital with news that his father has been brutally attacked, his world is turned upside down. Who is the strange woman crying at William's bedside, covered in his blood - a friend, a mistress, a fantasist or a killer?
Against the advice of the police, Joe launches his own investigation. As he learns more, he discovers sides to his father he never knew - and is forcibly reminded that the truth comes at a price.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2018
1588 people are currently reading
7508 people want to read
About the author
Michael Robotham
53 books7,247 followersTwo-times Gold Dagger winner (2015 and 2020), twice Edgar best novel finalist (2016 and 2020) and winner of the Ian Fleming Steel Dagger (2021), Michael Robotham was born in Australia in November 1960 and grew up in small country towns that had more dogs than people and more flies than dogs. He escaped became a cadet journalist on an afternoon newspaper in Sydney.
For the next fourteen years he worked for newspapers and magazines in Australia, Europe, Africa and America. As a senior feature writer for the UK’s Mail on Sunday he was among the first people to view the letters and diaries of Czar Nicholas II and his wife Empress Alexandra, unearthed in the Moscow State Archives in 1991. He also gained access to Stalin’s Hitler files, which had been missing for nearly fifty years until a cleaner stumbled upon a cardboard box that had been misplaced and misfiled.
In 1993 he quit journalism to become a ghostwriter, collaborating with politicians, pop stars, psychologists, adventurers and showbusiness personalities to write their autobiographies. Twelve of these non-fiction titles have been bestsellers with combined sales of more than 2 million copies.
His first novel 'THE SUSPECT', a psychological thriller, was chosen by the world’s largest consortium of book clubs as only the fifth “International Book of the Month”, making it the top recommendation to 28 million book club members in fifteen countries.
Since then, Michael's psychological thrillers have been translated into twenty-five languages and his Joe O'Loughlin series is are currently in development for TV by World Productions. A six-part TV series based upon his standalone novel THE SECRETS SHE KEEPS was aired on BBC1 in 2020, and a second series begins filming in 2021.
Michael lives in Sydney with his wife and a diminishing number of dependent daughters.
For the next fourteen years he worked for newspapers and magazines in Australia, Europe, Africa and America. As a senior feature writer for the UK’s Mail on Sunday he was among the first people to view the letters and diaries of Czar Nicholas II and his wife Empress Alexandra, unearthed in the Moscow State Archives in 1991. He also gained access to Stalin’s Hitler files, which had been missing for nearly fifty years until a cleaner stumbled upon a cardboard box that had been misplaced and misfiled.
In 1993 he quit journalism to become a ghostwriter, collaborating with politicians, pop stars, psychologists, adventurers and showbusiness personalities to write their autobiographies. Twelve of these non-fiction titles have been bestsellers with combined sales of more than 2 million copies.
His first novel 'THE SUSPECT', a psychological thriller, was chosen by the world’s largest consortium of book clubs as only the fifth “International Book of the Month”, making it the top recommendation to 28 million book club members in fifteen countries.
Since then, Michael's psychological thrillers have been translated into twenty-five languages and his Joe O'Loughlin series is are currently in development for TV by World Productions. A six-part TV series based upon his standalone novel THE SECRETS SHE KEEPS was aired on BBC1 in 2020, and a second series begins filming in 2021.
Michael lives in Sydney with his wife and a diminishing number of dependent daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,337 reviews
December 14, 2018
*3.75-ish stars*
Having discovered Michael Robotham’s writing last year—I obsessed over two of his standalones—and being a bit of a commitment-phobe when it comes to investing in a long-standing series, I decided to take a leap and start here, with book nine. The fact that I’m easily distracted by shiny new releases didn't help things either.
For devoted fans of Joseph O’Loughlin, The Other Wife is sure to satisfy. Robotham gives readers a deeply personal look at the beloved psychiatrist’s life and his battle with Parkinson’s. For that very reason, should I ever find the time to go back and start from the beginning, I’m bound to kick myself for making my introduction here. While written as a standalone, there’s no doubt I spoiled myself majorly in some way.
Robotham uses his ninth O’Loughlin to explore the question that's become commonplace in the suspense genre—how well do you ever really know someone? Or, in this case, your own parents.
When Joe’s father winds up in the hospital—head bashed in and placed in a medically induced coma—it calls into question everything he thought he knew about the man. A well-respected surgeon, William has always put his career first. Unfortunately, the unrealistic expectations directed at his son, led to a disconnect.
Even more than the attack, it’s where his father was found and the woman sitting by his bedside that sends Joe into a tailspin. Having been married to his mother for sixty-years, how is this woman now claiming she’s his father’s other wife?
Joe sets out, with retired copper and trusty sidekick Ruiz, to find the truth. Could his father, a man who’s always upheld the moral high ground, be capable of living a double life?
Now having read my third Robotham, I think I can say with some confidence that he brings a compelling storyline to the table. The curiosity the opening managed to incite, in conjunction with the short chapters, sparked somewhat of a reading frenzy. I was surprised to find that my feelings waned a bit in the back half though. The final destination became a bit murky, and coupled with the excessive page-count, found me eager to move on.
More than anything else, I wish there had been a tad more bite to the conclusion. There’s a twist, I just wasn’t overly impressed or wowed by the truth. Acceptable, I'd say, but not exceptional.
Despite my lackluster feelings regarding the ending, Joe's character is one I would consider getting to know better. The connection he shares with his girls—especially Emma—went a long way to prove he's a worthy guy. And entertaining enough to get me to commit to the next installment or even consider going back to the start—book one.
Having discovered Michael Robotham’s writing last year—I obsessed over two of his standalones—and being a bit of a commitment-phobe when it comes to investing in a long-standing series, I decided to take a leap and start here, with book nine. The fact that I’m easily distracted by shiny new releases didn't help things either.
For devoted fans of Joseph O’Loughlin, The Other Wife is sure to satisfy. Robotham gives readers a deeply personal look at the beloved psychiatrist’s life and his battle with Parkinson’s. For that very reason, should I ever find the time to go back and start from the beginning, I’m bound to kick myself for making my introduction here. While written as a standalone, there’s no doubt I spoiled myself majorly in some way.
Robotham uses his ninth O’Loughlin to explore the question that's become commonplace in the suspense genre—how well do you ever really know someone? Or, in this case, your own parents.
When Joe’s father winds up in the hospital—head bashed in and placed in a medically induced coma—it calls into question everything he thought he knew about the man. A well-respected surgeon, William has always put his career first. Unfortunately, the unrealistic expectations directed at his son, led to a disconnect.
Even more than the attack, it’s where his father was found and the woman sitting by his bedside that sends Joe into a tailspin. Having been married to his mother for sixty-years, how is this woman now claiming she’s his father’s other wife?
Joe sets out, with retired copper and trusty sidekick Ruiz, to find the truth. Could his father, a man who’s always upheld the moral high ground, be capable of living a double life?
Now having read my third Robotham, I think I can say with some confidence that he brings a compelling storyline to the table. The curiosity the opening managed to incite, in conjunction with the short chapters, sparked somewhat of a reading frenzy. I was surprised to find that my feelings waned a bit in the back half though. The final destination became a bit murky, and coupled with the excessive page-count, found me eager to move on.
More than anything else, I wish there had been a tad more bite to the conclusion. There’s a twist, I just wasn’t overly impressed or wowed by the truth. Acceptable, I'd say, but not exceptional.
Despite my lackluster feelings regarding the ending, Joe's character is one I would consider getting to know better. The connection he shares with his girls—especially Emma—went a long way to prove he's a worthy guy. And entertaining enough to get me to commit to the next installment or even consider going back to the start—book one.
January 12, 2019
A very character driven series, and yes another series I have read from the beginning. Joseph is a pyschologist, one who works with those others have given up on. His life lately has been stressful, sad, as he now tackles single parenting after the death of his wife. He has had to learn to make adjustments for his Parkinsons, but he is trying to move forward. When his father, whom he has had a contentious relationship in the past, is taken to the ICU, he rushes to his side. Now in a coma, Joseph finds out he may not survive. His father is a crime victim, and Joseph discovers the many secrets he has been keeping secrets.
So this one is very personal for Joseph and his family. I just love his down to earth character. I also love the way he sticks up for his two girls, trying his best to be there for them. As with any long running series, one gets to feel as if the characters are friends. This one and the secrets exposed were quite surprising. Again begs the question, how well do we actually know each other? Even our own family members?
Good stuff!
So this one is very personal for Joseph and his family. I just love his down to earth character. I also love the way he sticks up for his two girls, trying his best to be there for them. As with any long running series, one gets to feel as if the characters are friends. This one and the secrets exposed were quite surprising. Again begs the question, how well do we actually know each other? Even our own family members?
Good stuff!
July 8, 2018
The awesomeness of Michael Robotham's writing is once again on display in this, the ninth Joe O’Loughlin book. If you’re a fan already, you will love this book. It offers a much closer look into Joe's personal life than ever before. This book can also be read as a stand alone because of the back story provided, but why deprive yourself by not starting with the very first?
Robotham's characters have depth. Joe and his long time friend, Vincent Ruiz, are now old friends of mine. I just want to hug Joe's daughters, especially Emma, who really worried me. Joe's father is in a medically induced coma, and throughout this book, Joe is remembering pieces of his childhood.
Robotham's plotting is brilliant. He pointed to several different characters as the culprit before making the final reveal. The story was a big jigsaw puzzle with pieces scattered about waiting to be put into place. Robotham is a master storyteller, and I was immersed from the first chapter.
There are a handful of authors whose books I buy from overseas before their U.S. release. Michael Robotham is one of them. The quality is why.
Robotham's characters have depth. Joe and his long time friend, Vincent Ruiz, are now old friends of mine. I just want to hug Joe's daughters, especially Emma, who really worried me. Joe's father is in a medically induced coma, and throughout this book, Joe is remembering pieces of his childhood.
Robotham's plotting is brilliant. He pointed to several different characters as the culprit before making the final reveal. The story was a big jigsaw puzzle with pieces scattered about waiting to be put into place. Robotham is a master storyteller, and I was immersed from the first chapter.
There are a handful of authors whose books I buy from overseas before their U.S. release. Michael Robotham is one of them. The quality is why.
January 30, 2022
We always ask “how well do you know your spouse?" But maybe the question should be “how well do you know your parents?”
Joe O’Loughlin’s world is about to be rocked! After receiving a shocking call informing him his father was viciously attacked, Joe needs to get to the hospital ASAP. Once there, he expects to see his mother at his father’s bedside. Not even close. It’s a woman Joe has never seen before.
Stunned and highly confused, Joe asks her the obvious question. "Who are you?” Calmly she replies “I’m his other wife”. 😱
Joe is one of my all-time favorite characters! Kind of crusty but with a heart of gold. Raising his two daughters as a single father, while battling Parkinson’s.
Not sure where this series will go next or if this is indeed the end of the line for Joe😢. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each and every book and still hold out hope for one more!🤞
A buddy read with Susanne. Sorry, Susanne, we waited three years to get to this one. But good books are always worth the wait!
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Joe O’Loughlin’s world is about to be rocked! After receiving a shocking call informing him his father was viciously attacked, Joe needs to get to the hospital ASAP. Once there, he expects to see his mother at his father’s bedside. Not even close. It’s a woman Joe has never seen before.
Stunned and highly confused, Joe asks her the obvious question. "Who are you?” Calmly she replies “I’m his other wife”. 😱
Joe is one of my all-time favorite characters! Kind of crusty but with a heart of gold. Raising his two daughters as a single father, while battling Parkinson’s.
Not sure where this series will go next or if this is indeed the end of the line for Joe😢. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each and every book and still hold out hope for one more!🤞
A buddy read with Susanne. Sorry, Susanne, we waited three years to get to this one. But good books are always worth the wait!
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
July 1, 2018
When Joe O’Loughlin received the call that his father was in a coma in hospital, his wife by his side, Joe had no idea the trip to the hospital and his father’s room would change his life, and everything he’d known and believed about his parents would be shattered. The woman beside his father wasn’t his mother – but she said she was his wife. Joe was astounded – he ordered the woman from the room.
But as Joe and his good friend, ex-policeman Vincent Ruiz started digging into William O’Loughlin’s life, anomalies appeared. Things that Joe couldn’t – wouldn’t – believe about the father he thought he had known. And while William lay in the hospital bed with his wife and children surrounding him, not aware of anything, the truth began to trickle through. And Joe didn’t like any of it…
Meanwhile Joe’s daughter, twelve-year-old Emma was struggling, and older daughter Charlie had arrived home to spend some time with her father and sister. Could Joe help his family while searching for answers about his father? Would William survive? And what had happened to him?
The Other Wife is the 9th in the Joseph O’Loughlin series by Aussie author Michael Robotham, and another brilliant episode in a series I’ve loved from the beginning. Joe has Parkinson’s disease and each novel has him getting progressively worse. Mr Parkinson (as Joe calls it), rules his life – sometimes he can do what he wants, other times Mr Parkinson takes control. But Joe is a courageous character with lots of empathy and caring, sometimes too much and it gets him into trouble. There are plenty of twists and turns in this one; plenty of suspects (I didn’t guess the correct one until the reveal) and lots of red herrings. The Other Wife is a gritty psychological thriller that I highly recommend.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read and review.
But as Joe and his good friend, ex-policeman Vincent Ruiz started digging into William O’Loughlin’s life, anomalies appeared. Things that Joe couldn’t – wouldn’t – believe about the father he thought he had known. And while William lay in the hospital bed with his wife and children surrounding him, not aware of anything, the truth began to trickle through. And Joe didn’t like any of it…
Meanwhile Joe’s daughter, twelve-year-old Emma was struggling, and older daughter Charlie had arrived home to spend some time with her father and sister. Could Joe help his family while searching for answers about his father? Would William survive? And what had happened to him?
The Other Wife is the 9th in the Joseph O’Loughlin series by Aussie author Michael Robotham, and another brilliant episode in a series I’ve loved from the beginning. Joe has Parkinson’s disease and each novel has him getting progressively worse. Mr Parkinson (as Joe calls it), rules his life – sometimes he can do what he wants, other times Mr Parkinson takes control. But Joe is a courageous character with lots of empathy and caring, sometimes too much and it gets him into trouble. There are plenty of twists and turns in this one; plenty of suspects (I didn’t guess the correct one until the reveal) and lots of red herrings. The Other Wife is a gritty psychological thriller that I highly recommend.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read and review.
September 5, 2018
I read this from beginning to end in one sitting. I guess that's what you call unputdownable! Definitely five stars from me.
Poor Joseph, still reeling from a very personal loss, still learning to cope with Parkinson's Disease, still dealing with raising two teenagers and now he finds the father he thought he knew is a different character entirely. He gets involved with some very unpleasant people in the course of this book and it is a good thing he has back up in the form of Ruiz, ex policeman and capable of a good fight when it is needed.
An all round excellent addition to this great series. Maybe the author could give Joe a break in the next book and let something good come into his life for a change!
Poor Joseph, still reeling from a very personal loss, still learning to cope with Parkinson's Disease, still dealing with raising two teenagers and now he finds the father he thought he knew is a different character entirely. He gets involved with some very unpleasant people in the course of this book and it is a good thing he has back up in the form of Ruiz, ex policeman and capable of a good fight when it is needed.
An all round excellent addition to this great series. Maybe the author could give Joe a break in the next book and let something good come into his life for a change!
July 8, 2018
Poor old Joe O'Loughlin has a tough time being one of Michael Robotham's characters. He has to live with Mr Parkinson, the name he gives the horrible disease that is trying to take over his body. During his long and successful career as a psychologist working with his detective friend Vincent Ruiz to solve many crimes, he has being beaten up, stabbed, shot at and knocked unconscious numerous times. His love life has been no party either and just as his family life was looking up in the previous book, with his estranged wife inviting him to spend summer with her and his daughters, his wife dies suddenly leaving him as sole parent to his two bereaved girls. And now, sixteen months later, just as he's learning to deal with that, his father has been brutally attacked and left with major head injuries after a fall down the stairs in his own home. Not only that, but when he rushes into the ICU he finds a strange woman sitting with his father. Who is she and how does she know his father?
Joe, being Joe, begins to investigate the unknown woman and tries to determine who have attacked his father. As he discovers several suspects and uncovers many secrets going back years, he realises that much that he thought he knew about his father is wrong. Although his father is in a coma and may never speak again, Joe starts to learn that this cold distant man is flawed and has a human side. As he comes to understand him more he realises that his father does love him even though Joe refused to follow in his footsteps and become a surgeon.
Michael Robotham is such a consummate story teller that his books are always well written with inventive plots and memorable characters. He is so good at getting into the heads of his characters, showing their flaws and weaknesses in a way that makes you empathise with them and understand their motives and actions. The end of the book finds Joe in a better place, more accepting of his parents and their flaws and helping his younger daughter Emma come to terms with her mother's death. Hopefully there will be more books in this series so that we can continue to follow Joe's life.
Joe, being Joe, begins to investigate the unknown woman and tries to determine who have attacked his father. As he discovers several suspects and uncovers many secrets going back years, he realises that much that he thought he knew about his father is wrong. Although his father is in a coma and may never speak again, Joe starts to learn that this cold distant man is flawed and has a human side. As he comes to understand him more he realises that his father does love him even though Joe refused to follow in his footsteps and become a surgeon.
Michael Robotham is such a consummate story teller that his books are always well written with inventive plots and memorable characters. He is so good at getting into the heads of his characters, showing their flaws and weaknesses in a way that makes you empathise with them and understand their motives and actions. The end of the book finds Joe in a better place, more accepting of his parents and their flaws and helping his younger daughter Emma come to terms with her mother's death. Hopefully there will be more books in this series so that we can continue to follow Joe's life.
August 13, 2018
Imagine you get called to hospital because your father has serious injuries and is in a coma.
You are told your mother is with him but when you get there it's a complete stranger who claims to be his second wife. What would you do if you where faced with this situation I wonder? I think I would be worried if my mother turned up and the thought would be running through my head as to how this woman managed to get into my father's room.
This however is just the start of the story that has so many surprises along the way that I found it hard to stop listening when I should have been asleep.
I listened to the audiobook version of this story and the narration was absolutely brilliant.
Very well written and very highly recommended. Storytelling at it's best.
You are told your mother is with him but when you get there it's a complete stranger who claims to be his second wife. What would you do if you where faced with this situation I wonder? I think I would be worried if my mother turned up and the thought would be running through my head as to how this woman managed to get into my father's room.
This however is just the start of the story that has so many surprises along the way that I found it hard to stop listening when I should have been asleep.
I listened to the audiobook version of this story and the narration was absolutely brilliant.
Very well written and very highly recommended. Storytelling at it's best.
January 13, 2021
We are over saturated with thrillers these days, but this one has the author's talent of "Plot Unpredictability." This was a fun rollercoaster, with unexpected and unforseen twists and turns. It is part thriller and part mystery. This author is talented, and I plan to read more of his work. This is the 9th book in the Joe O'loughlin series---but stands perfect as a stand alone.
October 19, 2019
This is my fourth Michael Robotham story and my third in the Joseph O'Loughlin series. Each in the series are great stand alone stories. This was definitely on par with the others, I've read. In a sentence, I summarize Joe as a man, who has little to smile about but pushes forward in search of meaning and purpose.
Joe is called to the hospital by a staffer; His father is in critical condition and has been placed in a medical coma due to a recent severe head injury. He was told that his mother is there but when he arrives, he sees a stranger! The woman claims to be his father's wife and after hostile conversations and some digging, he discovers that his father has been living a whole new life. How could he, a clinical psychologist miss these clues? His digging, leads to very odd pieces of information and behaviors, others close to the family have known the truth and were complicit in keeping silent.
How this relates to a police investigation into what is now seemingly obvious case of a murderous assault or even a planned murder isn't clear to Joe. Maybe his father didn't trip and fall down the stairs. Joe must quickly get information and details to curious comments made by others, it would seem someone(s?) are intent in seeing William (his father) dead and time is against his father's very survival.
Joe's persistent leads to discoveries that make him and his family a target. Despite his misgivings, he must find answers as the police seem to be on the wrong trail. The head investigator is making ever effort to stymie Joe and even threatens him in the process. However, Joe's family is at risk and Joe must have answers, even if the police honor their threats against him. Even if his own safety is at risk. There are more skeletons in his families closet than a haunted house!
A well written story, we have some insight into what Joe is thinking but mainly we are traveling with him. We encounter the scary situations and the physical violence, he happens upon. We too, question the obvious lies and less than clear answers. We ponder the motives of those who shouldn't have any skin in the game and yet, they are now major players in a conspiracy.
A stellar mystery, Robotham's writing is consummate with more well known names. This is a family drama as much as a mystery with a dose of suspense. His characters are real enough, with typical life challenges. I like that none are perfect but likable none the less. Those who prefer these type stories, should give this consideration as the head up your TBR pile. I love how the book untangles family dynamics, where we are often given a part of the story. This is another Robotham hit!
Joe is called to the hospital by a staffer; His father is in critical condition and has been placed in a medical coma due to a recent severe head injury. He was told that his mother is there but when he arrives, he sees a stranger! The woman claims to be his father's wife and after hostile conversations and some digging, he discovers that his father has been living a whole new life. How could he, a clinical psychologist miss these clues? His digging, leads to very odd pieces of information and behaviors, others close to the family have known the truth and were complicit in keeping silent.
How this relates to a police investigation into what is now seemingly obvious case of a murderous assault or even a planned murder isn't clear to Joe. Maybe his father didn't trip and fall down the stairs. Joe must quickly get information and details to curious comments made by others, it would seem someone(s?) are intent in seeing William (his father) dead and time is against his father's very survival.
Joe's persistent leads to discoveries that make him and his family a target. Despite his misgivings, he must find answers as the police seem to be on the wrong trail. The head investigator is making ever effort to stymie Joe and even threatens him in the process. However, Joe's family is at risk and Joe must have answers, even if the police honor their threats against him. Even if his own safety is at risk. There are more skeletons in his families closet than a haunted house!
A well written story, we have some insight into what Joe is thinking but mainly we are traveling with him. We encounter the scary situations and the physical violence, he happens upon. We too, question the obvious lies and less than clear answers. We ponder the motives of those who shouldn't have any skin in the game and yet, they are now major players in a conspiracy.
A stellar mystery, Robotham's writing is consummate with more well known names. This is a family drama as much as a mystery with a dose of suspense. His characters are real enough, with typical life challenges. I like that none are perfect but likable none the less. Those who prefer these type stories, should give this consideration as the head up your TBR pile. I love how the book untangles family dynamics, where we are often given a part of the story. This is another Robotham hit!
February 16, 2019
I broke my cardinal rule of not starting a series unless I read them in the right order. I think you can read this as a stand alone but I would have rather read the previous books in this series first and had the chance to get to know the main characters.
Professor Joseph O Laughlin has a call from the Hospital saying his dad William has severe head injuries and is in a coma. He arrives at the hospital and finds at his father’s side a woman called Olivia holding his hand and claiming to be his other wife!! Does his mother know about this other woman?
Joseph has problems of his own dealing with Parkinson’s and bringing up his 2 children after his wife’s death. Joe begins to investigate Olivia and try to discover who has attempted to kill his father.
There are many suspects and twists along the way and Joe discovers that his father although distant throughout his childhood, does have a human side with flaws like everybody else.
I will definitely read the other books in this series as Joe is such a strong, down to earth and a very likeable character.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy in exchange for a review.
Professor Joseph O Laughlin has a call from the Hospital saying his dad William has severe head injuries and is in a coma. He arrives at the hospital and finds at his father’s side a woman called Olivia holding his hand and claiming to be his other wife!! Does his mother know about this other woman?
Joseph has problems of his own dealing with Parkinson’s and bringing up his 2 children after his wife’s death. Joe begins to investigate Olivia and try to discover who has attempted to kill his father.
There are many suspects and twists along the way and Joe discovers that his father although distant throughout his childhood, does have a human side with flaws like everybody else.
I will definitely read the other books in this series as Joe is such a strong, down to earth and a very likeable character.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy in exchange for a review.
July 8, 2018
10 Stars! Bestselling International author Michael Robotham returns following The Secrets She Keeps, Close Your Eyes, and Life or Death with THE OTHER WIFE – a riveting Tour de Force thriller – His best Yet! How well do you know your own family?
Soundcloud A nice Interview with Michael Robotham. Hosts: John Purcell and Sarah McDuling
Since the author introduced us to Professor Joe O’Loughlin, a clinical psychologist, (Suspect) readers anxiously await the next installment. Thirteen books later and the Professor (a man with a brilliant mind and a crumbling body) is still with us. (thank you).
He is still battling Mr. Parkinson (for thirteen years); however, the man sure can get himself into some tight places and dangerous ones (all this stress cannot be good for his medical condition). Here’s hoping in the fictional world that he will receive a magical "cure." We would like him around for a while longer. (please).
It has been sixteen months since Joe’s wife, Julianne died. A surgical complication. He is still grieving.
For the sake of Joe’s two daughters, Charlie and Emma he moves forward. Family comes first with him. They had moved back to London after selling the cottage in Somerset, and now the three of them live in a top-floor flat.
Emma (age 12) is experiencing problems and has not dealt with her grief. Charlie is in her second year at Oxford studying behavioral psychology.
Joe is still going to a therapist Dr. Victoria Napastek. She always wants him to verbalize his fears, but he lives through them each day.
He receives an alarming message from the hospital about his father, William O’Loughlin. He has been admitted with severe head injuries. Brain surgery. He is in a medically induced coma. ICU. He turned eighty this past year, and Joe cannot comprehend his dad as a patient.
For more than fifty years he was a medical giant – a professor of surgery and public health. Advisor, lecturer, author, commentator, and philanthropist. Their family’s charitable trust – the O’Loughlin Foundation gives millions in research grants each year.
When Joe arrives at the hospital, he expects to his mother. However, it is another woman. This woman claims to be his wife. His other wife. Olivia Blackmore (former tennis star).
This woman is in her forties. How can this be possible? She says they are married. Is she after his money? However, he is married to his mother —has been for more than sixty years. Does his mother know his dad is leading a double life?
Joe thinks she is delusional. A liar. There was an accident. Who pushed his dad down the steps and attacked him? After further investigation, there are also older bruises. Joe calls in the family. He demands answers. Repeatedly blows to the head. Blunt force trauma.
He and his dad had never been close. He respected him, but he feels like he never lived up. Does his mother know about this woman? He had never had reason to question his father’s integrity or doubt his love for his other. He does not want to believe he is a liar, a coward, and a betrayer. It cannot be true.
However, this is much more complex than an affair. Someone tried to murder his father. Olivia, her troubled son, his friend, or does it have to do with the family trust or something more sinister? What is Olivia hiding? She is vulnerable, beautiful, and dangerous. Why was his mom in London?
Joe is obsessed with getting to the bottom of this mystery and with the help of his pal Vincent Ruiz (former retired Scotland Yard detective) which is now a corporate fraud investigator (love him). Whatever Joe’s dad is guilty of, he has to believe he did not deserve this.
DI Stuart Macdermid becomes involved, and he does not like Joe’s interference. However, Joe seems to like DS Hawthorn (Kate). Will she be a new love interest? What about her past? Will she compromise her position and all she has worked to help Joe?
They have to follow the money.
What do the family attorneys and friends have to do with his dad? Are they aware he has two lives? Who will gain by murdering his dad? Then he discovers there are missing monies and discrepancies from the foundation after a recent audit. Why is his mother taking his dad’s side? How could he do this to her? Furthermore, why did she tolerate his behavior?
A powerhouse of twists and turns! His dad has been sending checks to a Bethany D’Marco. Joe is shocked there is more in his dad’s past than he ever imagined. Her family. Medical malpractice? A coverup? Who is this man? What else is he hiding? Everyone is a suspect.
A week ago his father was a great provider and part of a medical dynasty. Now he is a bigamist and an adulterer who may never recover his faculties. None of the shocking events fit with the man Joe knows as his father.
“Children begin by loving their parents; as they grow older they judge them; sometimes they forgive them.” – Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray
Wow! Brilliant. I love this series and in particular, enjoy the author’s writing (huge fan). Psychologically rich. One of my favorite authors – with each book I say “my favorite.” From the standalone and the series. What makes his work so unique is the sophisticated character development. There is always a story, flawed characters with strong family ties and emotions.
Plus, the killer plot, twists, intense suspense. Multi-layered and complex, this is no ordinary domestic suspense novel. When you think you have figured out the killer, there is another twist. Everyone is a suspect, but the need for revenge goes deep. Unputdownable!
This series is prime for the small or big screen. Movie-Worthy. Joe reminds me of Michael Connelly's Bosch. Always pulled between their cases and their personal family lives. Tormented.
From fathers-sons, fathers-daughters, family, grief, forgiveness, secrets, betrayal, deception, cover-ups, tragedy, greed, revenge, and acceptance. THE OTHER WIFE has it all. Everything you could want in a crime thriller. My Top Books of 2018 and my favorite thriller of the year, thus far.
Highly recommend. If you have not read the other books in the series, each one can be read as a standalone; however, if you are like me, once you read one of his books, you will find yourself buying the entire backlist.
Was delighted to discover the digital copy was offered for purchase to the US in June, so as not to have to wait until October. However, I have pre-ordered the hardcover for my collection. A top author! Cannot wait to see what’s next.
JDCMustReadBooks
My Reviews:
2017 The Secrets She Keeps
Goodreads
Blog
Top Books of 2017
2016 Close Your Eyes
Goodreads
Blog
Top Books of 2016
2015 Life or Death
Goodreads
Blog
Top Books of 2015
Soundcloud A nice Interview with Michael Robotham. Hosts: John Purcell and Sarah McDuling
Since the author introduced us to Professor Joe O’Loughlin, a clinical psychologist, (Suspect) readers anxiously await the next installment. Thirteen books later and the Professor (a man with a brilliant mind and a crumbling body) is still with us. (thank you).
He is still battling Mr. Parkinson (for thirteen years); however, the man sure can get himself into some tight places and dangerous ones (all this stress cannot be good for his medical condition). Here’s hoping in the fictional world that he will receive a magical "cure." We would like him around for a while longer. (please).
“Mr. Parkinson is a cruel puppeteer, tugging at invisible strings, making me dance to music that only he can hear.”
It has been sixteen months since Joe’s wife, Julianne died. A surgical complication. He is still grieving.
“The seasons since then have been like states of grieving. Summer passed in denial and isolation, autumn brought anger, winter blame, and by spring my depression has driven me to seek help.”
For the sake of Joe’s two daughters, Charlie and Emma he moves forward. Family comes first with him. They had moved back to London after selling the cottage in Somerset, and now the three of them live in a top-floor flat.
Emma (age 12) is experiencing problems and has not dealt with her grief. Charlie is in her second year at Oxford studying behavioral psychology.
Joe is still going to a therapist Dr. Victoria Napastek. She always wants him to verbalize his fears, but he lives through them each day.
He receives an alarming message from the hospital about his father, William O’Loughlin. He has been admitted with severe head injuries. Brain surgery. He is in a medically induced coma. ICU. He turned eighty this past year, and Joe cannot comprehend his dad as a patient.
For more than fifty years he was a medical giant – a professor of surgery and public health. Advisor, lecturer, author, commentator, and philanthropist. Their family’s charitable trust – the O’Loughlin Foundation gives millions in research grants each year.
When Joe arrives at the hospital, he expects to his mother. However, it is another woman. This woman claims to be his wife. His other wife. Olivia Blackmore (former tennis star).
This woman is in her forties. How can this be possible? She says they are married. Is she after his money? However, he is married to his mother —has been for more than sixty years. Does his mother know his dad is leading a double life?
Joe thinks she is delusional. A liar. There was an accident. Who pushed his dad down the steps and attacked him? After further investigation, there are also older bruises. Joe calls in the family. He demands answers. Repeatedly blows to the head. Blunt force trauma.
He and his dad had never been close. He respected him, but he feels like he never lived up. Does his mother know about this woman? He had never had reason to question his father’s integrity or doubt his love for his other. He does not want to believe he is a liar, a coward, and a betrayer. It cannot be true.
However, this is much more complex than an affair. Someone tried to murder his father. Olivia, her troubled son, his friend, or does it have to do with the family trust or something more sinister? What is Olivia hiding? She is vulnerable, beautiful, and dangerous. Why was his mom in London?
Joe is obsessed with getting to the bottom of this mystery and with the help of his pal Vincent Ruiz (former retired Scotland Yard detective) which is now a corporate fraud investigator (love him). Whatever Joe’s dad is guilty of, he has to believe he did not deserve this.
DI Stuart Macdermid becomes involved, and he does not like Joe’s interference. However, Joe seems to like DS Hawthorn (Kate). Will she be a new love interest? What about her past? Will she compromise her position and all she has worked to help Joe?
They have to follow the money.
What do the family attorneys and friends have to do with his dad? Are they aware he has two lives? Who will gain by murdering his dad? Then he discovers there are missing monies and discrepancies from the foundation after a recent audit. Why is his mother taking his dad’s side? How could he do this to her? Furthermore, why did she tolerate his behavior?
A powerhouse of twists and turns! His dad has been sending checks to a Bethany D’Marco. Joe is shocked there is more in his dad’s past than he ever imagined. Her family. Medical malpractice? A coverup? Who is this man? What else is he hiding? Everyone is a suspect.
A week ago his father was a great provider and part of a medical dynasty. Now he is a bigamist and an adulterer who may never recover his faculties. None of the shocking events fit with the man Joe knows as his father.
“I wish I didn’t care, but I do. I’ve seen a ghost, and that ghost is my father; an oversized man with a heart of stone who once occupied a pedestal, but whose legacy is as fouled and be-shitted as a London statue.”
“Children begin by loving their parents; as they grow older they judge them; sometimes they forgive them.” – Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray
Wow! Brilliant. I love this series and in particular, enjoy the author’s writing (huge fan). Psychologically rich. One of my favorite authors – with each book I say “my favorite.” From the standalone and the series. What makes his work so unique is the sophisticated character development. There is always a story, flawed characters with strong family ties and emotions.
Plus, the killer plot, twists, intense suspense. Multi-layered and complex, this is no ordinary domestic suspense novel. When you think you have figured out the killer, there is another twist. Everyone is a suspect, but the need for revenge goes deep. Unputdownable!
This series is prime for the small or big screen. Movie-Worthy. Joe reminds me of Michael Connelly's Bosch. Always pulled between their cases and their personal family lives. Tormented.
From fathers-sons, fathers-daughters, family, grief, forgiveness, secrets, betrayal, deception, cover-ups, tragedy, greed, revenge, and acceptance. THE OTHER WIFE has it all. Everything you could want in a crime thriller. My Top Books of 2018 and my favorite thriller of the year, thus far.
Highly recommend. If you have not read the other books in the series, each one can be read as a standalone; however, if you are like me, once you read one of his books, you will find yourself buying the entire backlist.
Was delighted to discover the digital copy was offered for purchase to the US in June, so as not to have to wait until October. However, I have pre-ordered the hardcover for my collection. A top author! Cannot wait to see what’s next.
JDCMustReadBooks
My Reviews:
2017 The Secrets She Keeps
Goodreads
Blog
Top Books of 2017
2016 Close Your Eyes
Goodreads
Blog
Top Books of 2016
2015 Life or Death
Goodreads
Blog
Top Books of 2015
February 3, 2022
Review posted to blog: books-are-a-girls-best-friend.com
A fabulous character-driven suspense!
When Joe O’Loughlin gets a phone call from a woman informing him that his father has been beaten to within an inch of his life, Joe’s life is shaken to the core yet again. As if his life wasn’t already in shambles. Trying to keep things together these last eighteen months for his daughters Charlie and Emma hasn’t been easy, and now, he has to keep the rest of his family together as well.
Joe O’Loughlin has never been perfect. Far from it, truth be told. He’s vulnerable and open and although he suffers from Parkinson's, he doesn’t let it take over his life, and frankly, there’s just something about him that I love desperately and I know I’m not alone in saying this.
Family is one of the only things that matter to him in this life. That and helping others, whether it’s in his work as a Forensic Psychologist or in solving crimes related to his job. When he finds his father in his hospital bed, he can’t help but try and figure out what happened to him which begs the question, how well do you truly know those around you or rather, are people really who you think they are? I have personal experience with that question, (being divorced, lol) and for me, the answer to that question was not very well, ha.
A character-driven novel with heart, this was a buddy read with Kaceey that garnered great discussion. The Joseph O’Loughlin series is one of my all-time favorites, and sadly the last few novels written by Michael Robotham have either been other series altogether or standalones. I hope he’s not done writing about Joe O’Loughlin as I adore him and don’t think his story is over yet.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
A fabulous character-driven suspense!
When Joe O’Loughlin gets a phone call from a woman informing him that his father has been beaten to within an inch of his life, Joe’s life is shaken to the core yet again. As if his life wasn’t already in shambles. Trying to keep things together these last eighteen months for his daughters Charlie and Emma hasn’t been easy, and now, he has to keep the rest of his family together as well.
Joe O’Loughlin has never been perfect. Far from it, truth be told. He’s vulnerable and open and although he suffers from Parkinson's, he doesn’t let it take over his life, and frankly, there’s just something about him that I love desperately and I know I’m not alone in saying this.
Family is one of the only things that matter to him in this life. That and helping others, whether it’s in his work as a Forensic Psychologist or in solving crimes related to his job. When he finds his father in his hospital bed, he can’t help but try and figure out what happened to him which begs the question, how well do you truly know those around you or rather, are people really who you think they are? I have personal experience with that question, (being divorced, lol) and for me, the answer to that question was not very well, ha.
A character-driven novel with heart, this was a buddy read with Kaceey that garnered great discussion. The Joseph O’Loughlin series is one of my all-time favorites, and sadly the last few novels written by Michael Robotham have either been other series altogether or standalones. I hope he’s not done writing about Joe O’Loughlin as I adore him and don’t think his story is over yet.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
November 22, 2025
I have been a fan of Michael Robotham and so, decided to pick up a few more of his books from my local library. This one includes the team of former DI Vincent Ruiz, now a fraud insurance investigator and Professor Joe O’Loughlin a psychologist who has a more advanced case of Parkinson’s.
And…This case is personal for Joe.
He gets a call from the hospital letting him know that his mother is already there with his father who had suffered a fall and is currently in a coma.
When he arrives, he asks who is that woman next to my father? He is informed that she is the one who gave them the number to call him.
And…She obviously isn’t his mother.
So…Who is she?
Well…The title of the book is “the other wife.”
So…We have already guessed where this is headed. His father has some secrets from this family.
But…How many secrets is the question?
And…How many didn’t know - about her?
And…Did he really fall down those stairs?
Or was he pushed?
So many questions. No immediate answers.
But an action packed, page-turning, interesting, well-organized plot that will keep readers guessing as to what happened, and why it happened...
And of course...Is she guilty, or isn’t she?
All the way up to the revealing end.
This was expertly written, and wonderfully enjoyed by this reader.
And…This case is personal for Joe.
He gets a call from the hospital letting him know that his mother is already there with his father who had suffered a fall and is currently in a coma.
When he arrives, he asks who is that woman next to my father? He is informed that she is the one who gave them the number to call him.
And…She obviously isn’t his mother.
So…Who is she?
Well…The title of the book is “the other wife.”
So…We have already guessed where this is headed. His father has some secrets from this family.
But…How many secrets is the question?
And…How many didn’t know - about her?
And…Did he really fall down those stairs?
Or was he pushed?
So many questions. No immediate answers.
But an action packed, page-turning, interesting, well-organized plot that will keep readers guessing as to what happened, and why it happened...
And of course...Is she guilty, or isn’t she?
All the way up to the revealing end.
This was expertly written, and wonderfully enjoyed by this reader.
June 21, 2018
I did not realise that this was book 9 in the series. It read fine as a stand alone though and I really enjoyed it. Back to book one for me now !!
June 16, 2018
I'm a huge huge fan of this series and the engaging beautifully drawn character of Joe O’Loughlin so I was very much looking forward to entering his world once again.
This story hits very close to home when Joe discovers dark secrets lurk at the heart of his own family. Add murder into the mix and you have a tense, addictive psychological thriller that explores the deeper truths hiding behind every family facade.
Michael Robotham twists a plot so beautifully, The Other Wife is immediately engaging and highly addictive. I think it will work best if you know Joe and something of what he goes through in previous books but this can easily be read as a standalone also.
I love the unpredictable nature of this authors storytelling, each time both in his series fiction and his standalone novels he brings something new to the table.
Great writing, great characters, The Other Wife, like the books that came before it, is a wonderfully immersive read and a right old page turner.
Highly recommended.
This story hits very close to home when Joe discovers dark secrets lurk at the heart of his own family. Add murder into the mix and you have a tense, addictive psychological thriller that explores the deeper truths hiding behind every family facade.
Michael Robotham twists a plot so beautifully, The Other Wife is immediately engaging and highly addictive. I think it will work best if you know Joe and something of what he goes through in previous books but this can easily be read as a standalone also.
I love the unpredictable nature of this authors storytelling, each time both in his series fiction and his standalone novels he brings something new to the table.
Great writing, great characters, The Other Wife, like the books that came before it, is a wonderfully immersive read and a right old page turner.
Highly recommended.
October 13, 2019
This is the ninth book in the Joseph O'Loughlin series by author Michael Robotham. I love this series and purchased this book a while ago now but you know what its like there's always another book to read first. Well I finally got round to it and I am so glad I did, this series started around 15 years ago and every book is of a consistently high standard.
The lead character Joe O'Loughlin is a clinical psychologist suffering with Parkinson’s disease. Joe's wife Julianne died suddenly over a year ago after complications while having a routine operation, leaving him to care for his daughter Charlie and younger daughter Emma.
This book starts with Joe receiving an urgent call informing him that his father has been attacked and is in intensive care, so he rushes to be by his mother’s side. When he arrives at the hospital he finds his father in a coma and an unknown woman at his side, who claims to be his father William's other wife. After having the woman named Olivia Blackmore removed from the hospital, he begins to investigate her claims and discovers she is telling the truth. His father's life was a sham and has been living a lie. With the help of his trusted friend Vincent Ruiz, Joe tries to uncover more of his father secret life and who would wish him dead.
This is another well written novel by Michael Robotham and there are a few hints in this book that the series maybe coming to an end, I hope not. Well planned plots with strong believable characters and make entertaining reading.
The lead character Joe O'Loughlin is a clinical psychologist suffering with Parkinson’s disease. Joe's wife Julianne died suddenly over a year ago after complications while having a routine operation, leaving him to care for his daughter Charlie and younger daughter Emma.
This book starts with Joe receiving an urgent call informing him that his father has been attacked and is in intensive care, so he rushes to be by his mother’s side. When he arrives at the hospital he finds his father in a coma and an unknown woman at his side, who claims to be his father William's other wife. After having the woman named Olivia Blackmore removed from the hospital, he begins to investigate her claims and discovers she is telling the truth. His father's life was a sham and has been living a lie. With the help of his trusted friend Vincent Ruiz, Joe tries to uncover more of his father secret life and who would wish him dead.
This is another well written novel by Michael Robotham and there are a few hints in this book that the series maybe coming to an end, I hope not. Well planned plots with strong believable characters and make entertaining reading.
December 4, 2022
Setting: London, UK.
This is the ninth book in the series featuring forensic psychologist Joe O'Loughlin yet is a series (and an author) I feel I will never tire of.
In this outing, Joe receives a phone call informing him that his father has suffered a serious head injury and is in intensive care with his wife at his bedside. But, when he arrives at the ICU, the woman with his father is a stranger to him - she tells him she is his father's 'other wife'.
Thus begins a series of surprising revelations about his father who, to Joe, has always been a somewhat aloof character, constantly disappointed in Joe's choice of career. As it becomes clear that his father's injuries are due to an attack on him rather than an accident, Joe immediately launches his own enquiries, ably assisted by his friend, retired police detective Vincent Ruiz.
Yet another gripping read with fast-paced action and many unexpected twists and turns in the tale, with Joe regularly placing himself and, inadvertently, his two daughters in danger - 9/10.
This is the ninth book in the series featuring forensic psychologist Joe O'Loughlin yet is a series (and an author) I feel I will never tire of.
In this outing, Joe receives a phone call informing him that his father has suffered a serious head injury and is in intensive care with his wife at his bedside. But, when he arrives at the ICU, the woman with his father is a stranger to him - she tells him she is his father's 'other wife'.
Thus begins a series of surprising revelations about his father who, to Joe, has always been a somewhat aloof character, constantly disappointed in Joe's choice of career. As it becomes clear that his father's injuries are due to an attack on him rather than an accident, Joe immediately launches his own enquiries, ably assisted by his friend, retired police detective Vincent Ruiz.
Yet another gripping read with fast-paced action and many unexpected twists and turns in the tale, with Joe regularly placing himself and, inadvertently, his two daughters in danger - 9/10.
July 19, 2019
The Other Wife
is the most disappointing Joseph O'Loughlin book so far.
* Minor spoilers ahead *
It's a convoluted, messy domestic drama that enfolds when Joe's dad is found in a coma after a brutal home invasion.
When Joe shows up to the hospital, he discovers his father's mistress of nearly 20 years sitting by the old man's bedside.
There begins a stereotypical, tepid drama about how Joe's dad was a macho, manly man and surgeon who swaggered through life with his brains, charisma and charm.
As Joe delves into his father's past, he has to reconcile him with the man he discovers with the man he grew up with and understand that we all have sides to our personality no one ever sees, some of them never meant to be brought to life.
There are plenty of twists, (too many if you ask me) and plenty of unlikeable characters.
The second wife is just a catalyst; her appearance is how all the drama is set in motion and though she factors in the first half of the book very much, her character diminishes as the rest of the story continues.
The second wife remains one dimensional, as her character is really just a means to an end, while Joe struggles with his father's duplicity and, at the same time, trying to cope with the loss of his wife and neglecting his youngest daughter's sorrow over her mother.
There were a lot of things I didn't like, including:
1. There is way too much adultering, unnecessarily so that its laughable how so many people are playing musical chairs with their spouses.
2. The ridiculous subplot of Joe falling for that cop; why couldn't she just be a friend?
3. The rude, presumptuous attitude of Joe's shrink who actually tells him its time to MEET OTHER PEOPLE BECAUSE ITS BEEN A YEAR AND A HALF.
Wow, I didn't know there was a time limit on grieving the loss of a spouse.
And this is a therapist telling him to move on?
Damn, was I pissed...I almost stopped reading the book just because of that scene.
4. I get that Joe is grieving and depressed and he doesn't notice his daughter needs help but he is supposedly a brilliant shrink.
He makes intuitive observations about everyone except his own child.
Dude, when you're a parent, your children are your priorities.
5. The ending was really hard to suspend disbelief for but my radar twanged when that heartless shrink made that remark so the rest of the book was already a lost cause for me.
I like Joe and I was happy to see Vincent Ruiz again but I hated this story.
It read like a cop-out and mishmash of worse domestic thrillers I've read before.
* Minor spoilers ahead *
It's a convoluted, messy domestic drama that enfolds when Joe's dad is found in a coma after a brutal home invasion.
When Joe shows up to the hospital, he discovers his father's mistress of nearly 20 years sitting by the old man's bedside.
There begins a stereotypical, tepid drama about how Joe's dad was a macho, manly man and surgeon who swaggered through life with his brains, charisma and charm.
As Joe delves into his father's past, he has to reconcile him with the man he discovers with the man he grew up with and understand that we all have sides to our personality no one ever sees, some of them never meant to be brought to life.
There are plenty of twists, (too many if you ask me) and plenty of unlikeable characters.
The second wife is just a catalyst; her appearance is how all the drama is set in motion and though she factors in the first half of the book very much, her character diminishes as the rest of the story continues.
The second wife remains one dimensional, as her character is really just a means to an end, while Joe struggles with his father's duplicity and, at the same time, trying to cope with the loss of his wife and neglecting his youngest daughter's sorrow over her mother.
There were a lot of things I didn't like, including:
1. There is way too much adultering, unnecessarily so that its laughable how so many people are playing musical chairs with their spouses.
2. The ridiculous subplot of Joe falling for that cop; why couldn't she just be a friend?
3. The rude, presumptuous attitude of Joe's shrink who actually tells him its time to MEET OTHER PEOPLE BECAUSE ITS BEEN A YEAR AND A HALF.
Wow, I didn't know there was a time limit on grieving the loss of a spouse.
And this is a therapist telling him to move on?
Damn, was I pissed...I almost stopped reading the book just because of that scene.
4. I get that Joe is grieving and depressed and he doesn't notice his daughter needs help but he is supposedly a brilliant shrink.
He makes intuitive observations about everyone except his own child.
Dude, when you're a parent, your children are your priorities.
5. The ending was really hard to suspend disbelief for but my radar twanged when that heartless shrink made that remark so the rest of the book was already a lost cause for me.
I like Joe and I was happy to see Vincent Ruiz again but I hated this story.
It read like a cop-out and mishmash of worse domestic thrillers I've read before.
September 19, 2019
4.5 stars. Wow Michael Robotham could write a shopping list and I'd avidly read it. This book is pretty much all about Joe O'laughlin's family. His father lies in hospital after a stroke and beside him is...his other wife. This is not a spoiler, its how the book starts. So - no crime, no baddies, but Robotham shows how to make a riveting story out of family drama. Poor Joe is shaken to his very foundations by the revelations in this story.
July 28, 2018
I feel like Robotham of late has a simple formula for when he writes. The last 3 or 4 of his novels Ive read I've felt alot of similarities in the style and structure. This picks up #9 with Joe. Ive only read a couple others with this character but I had higher expectations. The first half read really well, vintage Robotham with his great plotting and detail. Theres a real warmth to Joe. The second half ties up the story but it didnt seem to be as well structured which caused issues with the pacing. I feel like as its supposedly his last Joe novel, maybe the ending needed a different touch. Otherwise a solid thriller but I dont feel like its his best.
December 21, 2018
This is my 5th book by Michael Robotham and once again, I found I could not put it down. So many twists and turns, lies, and secrets throughout!!! Well done!!
March 15, 2019
Number nine in the Joe O’loughlin series.
Yet another terrific read from the pen of Michael Robotham.
Joe gets a call telling him that his father is in hospital after suffering a severe head trauma, he is unconscious and his mother is at the bed side. Joe heads straight to hospital to find not his mother but a woman he has never seen before sitting at his father’s bedside. Joe enquires as to who she is only to be told the impossible “I’m his wife”. From this point on everything that Joe believed to be written in stone is about to be turned upside down.
Instead of the stiff upper lipped, passionless, conservative man that Joe has called father for the last fifty odd years, he now finds a person that is a complete stranger, a stranger with secrets. Secrets so incomprehensible to Joe he has trouble believing anything he is now being told.
When his mother reveals to Joe that she knew all about his father’s other wife and has done so for twenty years, Joe now needs to know what other secrets are hiding in the family closet.
The police are now calling, what was thought to be an accident ‘attempted murder’ now.
The more Joe looks into his father’s secrets the more nefarious his father’s past gets.
Between the unravelling of the O’Loughlin families secrets and the hunt for the would be killer this will keep you well and truly glued, turning the pages ever quicker to find out what else could possibly go wrong.
Great plot, great characters, with more than enough twists and turns to keep most readers enthralled.
A thrilling, entertaining 5/5star read
Yet another terrific read from the pen of Michael Robotham.
Joe gets a call telling him that his father is in hospital after suffering a severe head trauma, he is unconscious and his mother is at the bed side. Joe heads straight to hospital to find not his mother but a woman he has never seen before sitting at his father’s bedside. Joe enquires as to who she is only to be told the impossible “I’m his wife”. From this point on everything that Joe believed to be written in stone is about to be turned upside down.
Instead of the stiff upper lipped, passionless, conservative man that Joe has called father for the last fifty odd years, he now finds a person that is a complete stranger, a stranger with secrets. Secrets so incomprehensible to Joe he has trouble believing anything he is now being told.
When his mother reveals to Joe that she knew all about his father’s other wife and has done so for twenty years, Joe now needs to know what other secrets are hiding in the family closet.
The police are now calling, what was thought to be an accident ‘attempted murder’ now.
The more Joe looks into his father’s secrets the more nefarious his father’s past gets.
Between the unravelling of the O’Loughlin families secrets and the hunt for the would be killer this will keep you well and truly glued, turning the pages ever quicker to find out what else could possibly go wrong.
Great plot, great characters, with more than enough twists and turns to keep most readers enthralled.
A thrilling, entertaining 5/5star read
February 4, 2021
This is a really good who dunnit with a twisting plot, a number of plausable red herrings and a surprising ending. The main character, Joe O'Loughlin, a recently widowed psychologist who is also suffering from the early stages of Parkinson's Disease, is forced to come to terms with the fact that his parents' marriage is not all it seems to be and may have a bearing on why his father was brutally attacked.
Joe has worked with the Police on cases in the past but now they feel he is too close to this one to become involved. Working with his close friend, a retired cop, he follows his own leads and finds himself at odds with the authorities, his family and close friends as he doggedly continues his quest for the perpetrator.
This is a fast paced story with a number of characters, any of whom could have been the assailant. The book is number 9 in the Joe O'Loughlin series and well worth a read if you like this genre.
Joe has worked with the Police on cases in the past but now they feel he is too close to this one to become involved. Working with his close friend, a retired cop, he follows his own leads and finds himself at odds with the authorities, his family and close friends as he doggedly continues his quest for the perpetrator.
This is a fast paced story with a number of characters, any of whom could have been the assailant. The book is number 9 in the Joe O'Loughlin series and well worth a read if you like this genre.
July 30, 2018
4.5 stars.
I think I had a different book by this author on my to read list but one of my libraries had this recent release so I grabbed it. No. 9 in the Joseph O’Loughlin series apparently so I have dived in very late but it didn’t really matter, I think it was fine as a stand-alone novel. I get why Michael Robotham is so popular. I was drawn into this story straight away, interesting plot and characters and great insights into them, well paced, and intelligent writing – what’s not to like? I will definitely read more from this author.
I think I had a different book by this author on my to read list but one of my libraries had this recent release so I grabbed it. No. 9 in the Joseph O’Loughlin series apparently so I have dived in very late but it didn’t really matter, I think it was fine as a stand-alone novel. I get why Michael Robotham is so popular. I was drawn into this story straight away, interesting plot and characters and great insights into them, well paced, and intelligent writing – what’s not to like? I will definitely read more from this author.
February 21, 2019
4.5 stars actually. Another wonderful, unputdownable, very well plotted book; featuring Clinical Psychologist Joe O'Loughlin. Joes' famous but aloof father near his death, is discovered by Joe to have 2 families. The first family of nearly 60 years, the second wife of 20 years duration. Another excellent, well crafted book by Michael Robotham.
March 22, 2022
The Other Wife is the ninth book in the Joseph O’Loughlin series about a London psychologist with Parkinson’s disease who attracts more than his fair share of psychotic killers. I’ve had this on my Book Club shelf for ages, but don’t like reading series out of order so ended up listening to the first three as audiobooks. I really didn’t like the third one, partly because I dislike the narcissism and sleaziness of the MC, and partly because of all the serial killers featured, so had decided not to continue with the series. It still goes against my principles to return a book without even looking at it, though, so I had a look at the blurb and discovered that for once it’s not about a sadistic serial killer, but rather a personal mystery involving a serious assault on Joe’s father.
Sometimes later books in series fix the character flaws that put me off a protagonist, so I started the first few chapters, and found myself getting sucked in… Sadly, Joe is still obsessed with womens’ looks and body-shapes, and as full of himself and his own cleverness as ever. I jumped to the end to find out what happened, then went back to skim through the middle. I do feel I read enough to rate it objectively. The writing is good, the plot complex, if you’ve followed the series the recurring characters all get enough airtime and the backstory about Joe’s life and his relationship with his father does go some way to explaining his flaws, but I still don’t like him and will not be reading any more. Yes I know I said that before…
PS why does a pet have to die in every book? This happens in the past, off-camera, but still…
Sometimes later books in series fix the character flaws that put me off a protagonist, so I started the first few chapters, and found myself getting sucked in… Sadly, Joe is still obsessed with womens’ looks and body-shapes, and as full of himself and his own cleverness as ever. I jumped to the end to find out what happened, then went back to skim through the middle. I do feel I read enough to rate it objectively. The writing is good, the plot complex, if you’ve followed the series the recurring characters all get enough airtime and the backstory about Joe’s life and his relationship with his father does go some way to explaining his flaws, but I still don’t like him and will not be reading any more. Yes I know I said that before…
PS why does a pet have to die in every book? This happens in the past, off-camera, but still…
April 13, 2023
This series has been brilliant, the last one in the series but wonder whether another will be done in the near future?The 9th in the Joe O’Loughlin and have enjoyed them all tremendously, some better than others but you would expect that.
Always well written, good plots, character progression is so interesting, humour so funny and agreeable. Always an emotional ride and fiction in this Category at it’s best.
Good on ya Mr R….Top Draw.
Always well written, good plots, character progression is so interesting, humour so funny and agreeable. Always an emotional ride and fiction in this Category at it’s best.
Good on ya Mr R….Top Draw.
August 11, 2020
The hospital Chapel is cool and quiet, with low-wattage bulbs glowing at floor level along the aisles. Dipping a finger into holy water, I make assign of the cross and move forward, feeling the silence on my skin. I can understand why people spend time in churches. There is a calm about them; a sense that the world has stopped turning for a moment. This does not require faith in a creator, merely the ability to still the mind and reflect. Breathe. Relax.
From the opening page this psychological thriller held me in its grasp. Criminal psychologist Joe O’Loughlin, pushing sixty, stills mourns his wife who died in surgery, himself on medication for Parkinson’s, is holding it together for his two daughters when he gets a phone call from a hospital to tell him his father is in intensive care in an induced coma, following a brutal assault. When he gets there he finds an attractive woman about his own age, who reveals herself to be his father’s other wife.
Everything begins to unravel: how his father, a prominent surgeon in his day, led a secret life, two families he kept apart, in collusion with his lawyer and best friend. But who attacked him and why? Did his mother know, and how much? Who would want to harm him? Joe reflects on his childhood, the father he remembers, who helped him when he was on the run from the police (The Suspect) but the two were never close.
As more details come to light the list of possible perpetrators grows: a schizophrenic step-brother. A drug addict. A former soldier. The other wife with secrets in her past, even his own mother as she cannot account for why she was in London and not at the family home in Wales. There are financial irregularities which former detective and Joe’s friend, Vincent Ruiz – my favourite character - investigates, and the banter between the two is most enjoyable. Meanwhile, as Joe gets closer to the truth he comes under attack.
Ruiz has gone to the floor-to-ceiling window, which offers a clear view in both directions along the Thames. To the east I can see City Airport and the grey waters of Albert Dock and beyond the immense obelisk of Canary Wharf. To the west are the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye. Everything old and everything new is beneath us, divided by elevated concrete ribbons or railway tracks, or the ageless river.
One of my favourite authors, I am particularly impressed by how Michael Robotham captures the mood and setting for each chapter, and though I guessed one of the people involved, I was caught off-guard by the identity of the killer. I have read several books by this author and each could be read as a standalone, as they are complete in themselves.
From the opening page this psychological thriller held me in its grasp. Criminal psychologist Joe O’Loughlin, pushing sixty, stills mourns his wife who died in surgery, himself on medication for Parkinson’s, is holding it together for his two daughters when he gets a phone call from a hospital to tell him his father is in intensive care in an induced coma, following a brutal assault. When he gets there he finds an attractive woman about his own age, who reveals herself to be his father’s other wife.
Everything begins to unravel: how his father, a prominent surgeon in his day, led a secret life, two families he kept apart, in collusion with his lawyer and best friend. But who attacked him and why? Did his mother know, and how much? Who would want to harm him? Joe reflects on his childhood, the father he remembers, who helped him when he was on the run from the police (The Suspect) but the two were never close.
As more details come to light the list of possible perpetrators grows: a schizophrenic step-brother. A drug addict. A former soldier. The other wife with secrets in her past, even his own mother as she cannot account for why she was in London and not at the family home in Wales. There are financial irregularities which former detective and Joe’s friend, Vincent Ruiz – my favourite character - investigates, and the banter between the two is most enjoyable. Meanwhile, as Joe gets closer to the truth he comes under attack.
Ruiz has gone to the floor-to-ceiling window, which offers a clear view in both directions along the Thames. To the east I can see City Airport and the grey waters of Albert Dock and beyond the immense obelisk of Canary Wharf. To the west are the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye. Everything old and everything new is beneath us, divided by elevated concrete ribbons or railway tracks, or the ageless river.
One of my favourite authors, I am particularly impressed by how Michael Robotham captures the mood and setting for each chapter, and though I guessed one of the people involved, I was caught off-guard by the identity of the killer. I have read several books by this author and each could be read as a standalone, as they are complete in themselves.
March 10, 2019
I enjoy this author and this particular series. I enjoy his books so much so, that I didn't mind parting with an audible credit in order to have this one. This was so close to 5 stars. Part of me just wants to round up.
The hook at the beginning was highly effective. I love when that happens. This author does so many things well: character development and their traits, relationships, descriptive strokes, plot, tension and mystery. I'm sure this list is longer.
I liked the look into the MC's family. We got a clearer look at his mom, his dad, and his daughter. I also like that the MC is an average bloke, but he happens to have Parkinson's. Well done.
The hook at the beginning was highly effective. I love when that happens. This author does so many things well: character development and their traits, relationships, descriptive strokes, plot, tension and mystery. I'm sure this list is longer.
I liked the look into the MC's family. We got a clearer look at his mom, his dad, and his daughter. I also like that the MC is an average bloke, but he happens to have Parkinson's. Well done.
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