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Inlaws and Outlaws
She knows what’s best for her son, and it’s not you.
Eve has an idiosyncratic relationship with the truth, is a borderline psychopath (according to her psychologist friend Claire), and has a rather colourful past. But her heart is in the right place. Having recently met Gideon everything seems, at last, to be working out rather well for her. Then he introduces her to his mother. Marjorie clearly believes that she knows what’s best for her son, and it’s definitely not Eve.
Over the next few months Eve struggles as Marjorie seems hell-bent on undermining her relationship with Gideon at every opportunity. Then, a chance meeting with someone very close to Marjorie confirms Eve’s worst fears – there are literally no lengths to which Marjorie will not go to get Eve out of her son’s life. Using her own ingenuity, and with help from some very unexpected quarters, Eve finds herself caught up in a very high stakes game indeed, in which there can be only one winner.
Eve has an idiosyncratic relationship with the truth, is a borderline psychopath (according to her psychologist friend Claire), and has a rather colourful past. But her heart is in the right place. Having recently met Gideon everything seems, at last, to be working out rather well for her. Then he introduces her to his mother. Marjorie clearly believes that she knows what’s best for her son, and it’s definitely not Eve.
Over the next few months Eve struggles as Marjorie seems hell-bent on undermining her relationship with Gideon at every opportunity. Then, a chance meeting with someone very close to Marjorie confirms Eve’s worst fears – there are literally no lengths to which Marjorie will not go to get Eve out of her son’s life. Using her own ingenuity, and with help from some very unexpected quarters, Eve finds herself caught up in a very high stakes game indeed, in which there can be only one winner.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2018
2 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Kate Fulford
1 book65 followersYou can read more about Kate, her social stories (plot snippets, latest reviews & more) & a sample of her debut novel at https://linktr.ee/katefulfordauthor
Kate had a long & varied career that encompassed working in the software industry, for brand & marketing agencies, and several years as a freelance copywriter.
She has a distinctive authorial voice that refuses to take anything too seriously, not because she doesn’t think life is a serious matter but because she believes that it is almost always better when leavened with humour.
Kate had a long & varied career that encompassed working in the software industry, for brand & marketing agencies, and several years as a freelance copywriter.
She has a distinctive authorial voice that refuses to take anything too seriously, not because she doesn’t think life is a serious matter but because she believes that it is almost always better when leavened with humour.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
March 27, 2018
UPDATE:
You can now read an interview of the author Kate Fulford about 'In-Laws and Outlaws' on my blog:
https://scarlettreadzandrunz.com/spot...
No…she is not a monster Mother in Law! Only a self-observed, negative and Uber-egocentric one!
Eve meets her future In-Laws over dinner, and if that isn’t nerve wracking in itself, she does not miss the subtle indescrepencies going on right from the beginning. Her boyfriend Gideon seems to be oblivious. He thinks his mother is amazing!
Over the course of the next few meetings things get increasingly stranger and Eve seeks wisdom from her friend psychologist. Feeling reassured but uneasy, she tries to keep her negative suspicions that her future Mother in Law Marjorie does not like her under wrap.
But then the obvious happens. Not once, but twice…..and Gideon still seems to not put one and one together. But Eve has had enough. She too can play people and stab them in the back! And so, this cozy family drama turns into a little mystery! Could this end deadly? Who knows? Ever had In Laws of such proportions?
***
This was a slow burn kind of read, but I enjoyed it. After about 60% of the book it turns into a sleuth mystery type read. I had thought at so many moments that Eve should just give up….this guy is not worth it. But what she ended up doing and the way things got twisted closer to the end of the book made me race to finish it. I just had to know. So many secrets, so many characters involved, and Eve was playing them like marionettes! I guess Marjory found a match with her daughter In-Law!
Great Read 😊
I received a digital copy of 'In-Laws and Outlaws' from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you!
You can now read an interview of the author Kate Fulford about 'In-Laws and Outlaws' on my blog:
https://scarlettreadzandrunz.com/spot...
No…she is not a monster Mother in Law! Only a self-observed, negative and Uber-egocentric one!
Eve meets her future In-Laws over dinner, and if that isn’t nerve wracking in itself, she does not miss the subtle indescrepencies going on right from the beginning. Her boyfriend Gideon seems to be oblivious. He thinks his mother is amazing!
Over the course of the next few meetings things get increasingly stranger and Eve seeks wisdom from her friend psychologist. Feeling reassured but uneasy, she tries to keep her negative suspicions that her future Mother in Law Marjorie does not like her under wrap.
But then the obvious happens. Not once, but twice…..and Gideon still seems to not put one and one together. But Eve has had enough. She too can play people and stab them in the back! And so, this cozy family drama turns into a little mystery! Could this end deadly? Who knows? Ever had In Laws of such proportions?
***
This was a slow burn kind of read, but I enjoyed it. After about 60% of the book it turns into a sleuth mystery type read. I had thought at so many moments that Eve should just give up….this guy is not worth it. But what she ended up doing and the way things got twisted closer to the end of the book made me race to finish it. I just had to know. So many secrets, so many characters involved, and Eve was playing them like marionettes! I guess Marjory found a match with her daughter In-Law!
Great Read 😊
I received a digital copy of 'In-Laws and Outlaws' from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you!
April 3, 2023
Update after my second reading of the book (April 2018).
It's funny. Although the ending of this book has been always somewhere in the back of my mind since reading it five years ago, what happened exactly before that was pretty vague. I must say I still like the unusual ending - although part of it was and is rather predictable.
I still think the characters are lacking depth though so I stick to my 4 star review. I needed something light and funny to read and re-reading this was just what I needed.
I liked this book obviously, although it doesn't merit the full five stars. I feel that I'm missing something with each character. Gideon is too ignorant on the behaviour of his mother, and why oh why did he never ask Eve what her job is? Marjorie indeed is the 'mother in law from hell' - and I have some experience with someone like her. She is very lifelike but still I would have liked her to be more a real person. Now, she sometimes acts and talks like a cartoon character. Malcolm is just there, his role is a very small one and that us partly understandable and party absolutely not. He could have done so much more to keep Marjorie in track. The sideline about Dominic was interesting but could have been worked out more evenly. And Eve... well, Eve... I don't know what to think of her exactly. She is, apart from the fact that she loves Gideon very much, not a very likable person.
It is very easy to sit here, having read the book, and find small flaws. I do realize that it would be much, much harder to sit down at the computer and wríte a book like this. There are many good and interesting things in it, and it is the kind of book that is difficult to put down once you started reading. The ending, although somewhat predictable, is indeed a very good one. It is very well written with a good balance and pace. There is anger and there is humor and there is love. Not a standard 'cozy mystery' and I would definitely like to read more of this author.
It's funny. Although the ending of this book has been always somewhere in the back of my mind since reading it five years ago, what happened exactly before that was pretty vague. I must say I still like the unusual ending - although part of it was and is rather predictable.
I still think the characters are lacking depth though so I stick to my 4 star review. I needed something light and funny to read and re-reading this was just what I needed.
I liked this book obviously, although it doesn't merit the full five stars. I feel that I'm missing something with each character. Gideon is too ignorant on the behaviour of his mother, and why oh why did he never ask Eve what her job is? Marjorie indeed is the 'mother in law from hell' - and I have some experience with someone like her. She is very lifelike but still I would have liked her to be more a real person. Now, she sometimes acts and talks like a cartoon character. Malcolm is just there, his role is a very small one and that us partly understandable and party absolutely not. He could have done so much more to keep Marjorie in track. The sideline about Dominic was interesting but could have been worked out more evenly. And Eve... well, Eve... I don't know what to think of her exactly. She is, apart from the fact that she loves Gideon very much, not a very likable person.
It is very easy to sit here, having read the book, and find small flaws. I do realize that it would be much, much harder to sit down at the computer and wríte a book like this. There are many good and interesting things in it, and it is the kind of book that is difficult to put down once you started reading. The ending, although somewhat predictable, is indeed a very good one. It is very well written with a good balance and pace. There is anger and there is humor and there is love. Not a standard 'cozy mystery' and I would definitely like to read more of this author.
April 14, 2018
Does a mother in law know what’s always best for her son?? Marjorie does!! Or she thinks she does!! One of the funny lines is the book is “Marjorie would bring her own bedroom sheets when she comes to visit because she doesn’t like how my sheets feel” made me laugh out loud (not the exact words but something close). Talk about manipulation!! Yep that’s Marjorie!! I was not expecting that ending. Wow!! Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this complimentary book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 6, 2018
Relationships - we all have them. Some just happen to be better than others, and some just happen to be worse than others.
Eve’s relationship with her boyfriend’s mother was a bit on the odd side but definitely warranted. Gideon’s mother, Marjorie, seemed to dislike Eve but wanted to know about her. Marjorie was a bit difficult to like but so was Eve.
Both of them seemed to be self-centered and BOTH were devoted to Gideon. They were quite the dueling characters and were characters to be concerned about.
Gideon also seemed to be someone who needed to be watched since his mother could do no wrong in his eyes.
INLAWS AND OUTLAWS actually had me laughing out loud at some of the things the characters said and did.
This book seemed to be a study in the personalities of the characters with most of the personalities being odd.
It was interesting how the family members warned Eve about Gideon’s mother and especially interesting about the comment about Eve needing to watch her back. As the book continued, the warning seemed to be something that needed to be heeded.
INLAWS AND OUTLAWS is an enjoyable book I would recommend if you like to look into the lives of characters and try to figure out what is actually going on and what the author is really trying to say about each character and his/her life.
Along with everything else, mystery and attempted murder were also added to the mix.
The characters are indeed entertaining and really don’t seem to be who they make themselves out to be.
If you are looking for a different, but good read INLAWS AND OUTLAWS would be a good choice.
ENJOY if you read the book. 4/5
This book was given to me by the author. All opinions are my own.
May 23, 2018
Inlaws and Outlaws. Love this. TWO perfect words in reverence to Eve and her future MIL’s turbulent relationship.
Eve’s not good enough and son Gideon is completely in the dark, but be sure there’s nothing this devoted mama won’t do to keep them apart. Marjorie’s an arrogant bitty with multiple lies + tactics up her sleeve, all for poor Eve’s benefit.
With her safety at risk Eve conspires with a longtime enemy of Marjorie’s, her twin sister, but soon learns even with their sneaky plan things don’t turn out as expected. Instead it turns into an even BETTER consequence than she could of ever anticipated.
Secrets and lies abound in this book with a shocker ending. What a wild and fun read!
Eve’s not good enough and son Gideon is completely in the dark, but be sure there’s nothing this devoted mama won’t do to keep them apart. Marjorie’s an arrogant bitty with multiple lies + tactics up her sleeve, all for poor Eve’s benefit.
With her safety at risk Eve conspires with a longtime enemy of Marjorie’s, her twin sister, but soon learns even with their sneaky plan things don’t turn out as expected. Instead it turns into an even BETTER consequence than she could of ever anticipated.
Secrets and lies abound in this book with a shocker ending. What a wild and fun read!
July 23, 2021
Люблю, когда случайная книга из читалки попадается в нужное время))
Ева, девушка со смутным прошлым и неопределенным родом занятий (моя бабуля назвала бы её "профура"), собирается замуж за Гидеона, профессора психологии. Все шло гладко, пока жених не познакомил невесту со своими родителями. Марджори, будущая свекровь, оказывается профурой более высокой квалификации, чем Ева (PhD как минимум), считает что ее сыночек достоин лучшей партии и начинается такое противостояние, которое я бы с удовольствие посмотрела в экранизации.
Это развлекалово в чистом виде, с накрученными в три спирали сюжетными поворотами. Есть огромный вопрос к тому, что случилось в финале. Но Ева похожа на Рианон Льюис из Sweet Pea (только с более человеческими рамками морали), я много раз смеялась и прекрасно отдохнула с книгой.
Ева, девушка со смутным прошлым и неопределенным родом занятий (моя бабуля назвала бы её "профура"), собирается замуж за Гидеона, профессора психологии. Все шло гладко, пока жених не познакомил невесту со своими родителями. Марджори, будущая свекровь, оказывается профурой более высокой квалификации, чем Ева (PhD как минимум), считает что ее сыночек достоин лучшей партии и начинается такое противостояние, которое я бы с удовольствие посмотрела в экранизации.
Это развлекалово в чистом виде, с накрученными в три спирали сюжетными поворотами. Есть огромный вопрос к тому, что случилось в финале. Но Ева похожа на Рианон Льюис из Sweet Pea (только с более человеческими рамками морали), я много раз смеялась и прекрасно отдохнула с книгой.
September 22, 2018
I received a free copy from the author.
'Inlaws and Outlaws' is the story of Eve and how she met her boyfriend's mother, Marjorie, for the first time. The book comes with the tagline She knows what’s best for her son, and it’s not you. Needless to say, their first meeting doesn't go down that well and soon Eve learns that Marjorie has meddled in the past with her son's relationships. Eve's habit of 'exaggerating' the truth isn't helpful either.
The book comes with a colorful array of characters. First, there is Eve who could have been a likable character if she weren't into the habit of bending the truth to make her past seem more suitable. In fact, she literally tries everything she can think of to shape herself for her environment. The part of her meeting Gideon was a prove to that. Now, Gideon is another strange character. He seems like a good guy to date until you learn about his relationship with his mother. It was creepy to hear him talk about her at times. The 'antagonist' to Eve is Marjorie. Labeling her as an antagonist is difficult as she shares quite some traits with Eve. In fact, I would go as far as to say that both of them manipulate their surroundings that it's tough to call one of them a nice or likable protagonist. There are several other characters adding their two-cents to this cast - unfortunately, it's difficult to talk about them without giving the story away.
In the end, I believe it's actually this potpourri of flawed characters that make this book read-worthy. The story itself is a little foreseeable although there are numerous turns and twists to confuse the reader. The fast-paced writing style added to my entertainment. Large parts of the story felt like watching a soap opera and I love those. Meaning, the book was great for me but might not work for everyone.
So, why 4 stars? I am glad I read the book but even 2 months later I am still not sure about the ending. Yes, it was one way of wrapping up the story. Definitely not an open ending but I am not sure if it was the ending the story deserved. Maybe it comes down to have two opponents who, in my opinion, aren't up for a happy ending. I leave it to others to decide if they like it - it was a let-down for me but all in all, this is a book I would recommend to friends of the darker side of chick-lit.
'Inlaws and Outlaws' is the story of Eve and how she met her boyfriend's mother, Marjorie, for the first time. The book comes with the tagline She knows what’s best for her son, and it’s not you. Needless to say, their first meeting doesn't go down that well and soon Eve learns that Marjorie has meddled in the past with her son's relationships. Eve's habit of 'exaggerating' the truth isn't helpful either.
The book comes with a colorful array of characters. First, there is Eve who could have been a likable character if she weren't into the habit of bending the truth to make her past seem more suitable. In fact, she literally tries everything she can think of to shape herself for her environment. The part of her meeting Gideon was a prove to that. Now, Gideon is another strange character. He seems like a good guy to date until you learn about his relationship with his mother. It was creepy to hear him talk about her at times. The 'antagonist' to Eve is Marjorie. Labeling her as an antagonist is difficult as she shares quite some traits with Eve. In fact, I would go as far as to say that both of them manipulate their surroundings that it's tough to call one of them a nice or likable protagonist. There are several other characters adding their two-cents to this cast - unfortunately, it's difficult to talk about them without giving the story away.
In the end, I believe it's actually this potpourri of flawed characters that make this book read-worthy. The story itself is a little foreseeable although there are numerous turns and twists to confuse the reader. The fast-paced writing style added to my entertainment. Large parts of the story felt like watching a soap opera and I love those. Meaning, the book was great for me but might not work for everyone.
So, why 4 stars? I am glad I read the book but even 2 months later I am still not sure about the ending. Yes, it was one way of wrapping up the story. Definitely not an open ending but I am not sure if it was the ending the story deserved. Maybe it comes down to have two opponents who, in my opinion, aren't up for a happy ending. I leave it to others to decide if they like it - it was a let-down for me but all in all, this is a book I would recommend to friends of the darker side of chick-lit.
March 24, 2018
Makes my In-laws look tame!
WOWZA! What a book this was! It had a bit of everything I knew I loved in a book, and brought light to bits I didn't know I wanted till I read it! Unreliable characters, check! An easy to follow plot, check! What will he/she/they do next?!, check! Left me wanting more, check! The MIL in this story even had me liking my own just a tab bit more to boot, which is no easy task lol! I myself can't imagine having to keep track of not only my own lies, but the lies of someone hellbent on my ruin at the same time! But the two female leads in this story did it with such success it more than once blew my mind. Can't wait to read Kate Fulfords' next release!
WOWZA! What a book this was! It had a bit of everything I knew I loved in a book, and brought light to bits I didn't know I wanted till I read it! Unreliable characters, check! An easy to follow plot, check! What will he/she/they do next?!, check! Left me wanting more, check! The MIL in this story even had me liking my own just a tab bit more to boot, which is no easy task lol! I myself can't imagine having to keep track of not only my own lies, but the lies of someone hellbent on my ruin at the same time! But the two female leads in this story did it with such success it more than once blew my mind. Can't wait to read Kate Fulfords' next release!
January 3, 2020
This is one of the most ridiculous books that I have had the pleasure to read. The characters are cartoonish in the extreme (especially the pantomime villain of a mother), the plot has more twists and turns than spaghetti junction and the solution to the story is unbelievable. However, this does not mean that this is a bad book - on the contrary, it was a delight to read. Suspend your disbelief and enjoy the ride. Recommended.
February 6, 2021
Not at all my cup of tea, but for lovers of family drama with such keywords as "mother-in-law" or "meeting-his-parents" it was interesting.
As I come from a Theatre background I kept thinking how this story and especially the way it was written would work better on stage. There were places I felt like maybe the next page will uncover a full-blown "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" spectacle between the two parents. But not being a stage gig, the supposed humorous parts actually felt more forced than funny.
Overall, this a perfect summer read for women who're preparing to meet the partner's family (just kidding,....or not, sometimes it's better to laugh about it, right?).
Thank you, NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
As I come from a Theatre background I kept thinking how this story and especially the way it was written would work better on stage. There were places I felt like maybe the next page will uncover a full-blown "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" spectacle between the two parents. But not being a stage gig, the supposed humorous parts actually felt more forced than funny.
Overall, this a perfect summer read for women who're preparing to meet the partner's family (just kidding,....or not, sometimes it's better to laugh about it, right?).
Thank you, NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 26, 2018
A really fun read (polished it off in a weekend) which I enjoyed immensely - whilst wanting to slap many of the characters at various times.
A nice little twist at the end and still a few unanswered questions - we need to know All About Eve!
A nice little twist at the end and still a few unanswered questions - we need to know All About Eve!
April 6, 2018
wow I didn't see that end coming.
Well written book as it had my attention to the very shocking end. What a great mother n law or so we thought. No one is good enough for her son, no one. Marjorie will do anything to keep any woman away from her son, including Eve. I felt bad for Eve she didn't deserve to be treated like an outsider. This book has twists and turns. Son's are put in these situations and it's a hard decision to choose. I like the characters and I feel I've met a new Author if her books are anything like this book.
Thank you Net Gallery and Thistle Publishing for this crazy read.
Cherie'
Well written book as it had my attention to the very shocking end. What a great mother n law or so we thought. No one is good enough for her son, no one. Marjorie will do anything to keep any woman away from her son, including Eve. I felt bad for Eve she didn't deserve to be treated like an outsider. This book has twists and turns. Son's are put in these situations and it's a hard decision to choose. I like the characters and I feel I've met a new Author if her books are anything like this book.
Thank you Net Gallery and Thistle Publishing for this crazy read.
Cherie'
May 12, 2018
Blackmail. Pettiness. Complete hilarity.
If I had to use three words to describe this book, those would be the words. It was an absolutely fantastic read, and I don’t have the words to explain how fantastic and hilarious it was!
In-Laws and Outlaws is the story of Eve, a woman like any other, who unwillingly finds herself drawn into a battle of wits and blackmail by her boyfriend’s mother Marjorie. This prospective mother-in-law doesn’t like Eve (or any girl Gideon’s brought home, really) and sets out to scare Eve away. But Eve’s a Gryffindor with a decidedly Slytherin side, and she doesn’t back down. What ensues is complete war between Eve and the despicable Marjorie, replete with espionage, ill will, and even attempted murder.
Eve’s narration was just the cherry on top. She had a very relatable voice, dropping anecdotes here and there, with neat quips and quite a bit of sarcasm. Eve also loves to lie (for ex: her name is Evelyn, but she likes the name Evangeline better, and so uses the latter), and is borderline sociopathic, but that just made her so much more likeable. (Maybe I’m weird that way?) Whatever. I LOVED the narration. I mean, who wouldn’t with such gems:
The Lord Of The Rings reference (Eve could be my best friend, seriously):
But my absolute favourite had to be this:
I only had only two problems with the book. Firstly, the tense — it kept swapping between present and past tenses in the midst of narration — and secondly, the lack of commas. I’m a bit of a punctuation Nazi, I’ll admit, but the story was so good, it slipped to the back of my mind. ME, A PUNCTUATION NAZI, UNBOTHERED!
This is Kate Fulford’s authorial debut, and if this is anything to go by, I genuinely can’t wait to read anything else she comes up with. She’s so bloody good! I feel I can’t reiterate how much I loved Eve’s narration. I can’t wait to read more of Fulford’s writing, so yeah, I’ll definitely be on the look out!
Note: I was given an ARC by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
If I had to use three words to describe this book, those would be the words. It was an absolutely fantastic read, and I don’t have the words to explain how fantastic and hilarious it was!
In-Laws and Outlaws is the story of Eve, a woman like any other, who unwillingly finds herself drawn into a battle of wits and blackmail by her boyfriend’s mother Marjorie. This prospective mother-in-law doesn’t like Eve (or any girl Gideon’s brought home, really) and sets out to scare Eve away. But Eve’s a Gryffindor with a decidedly Slytherin side, and she doesn’t back down. What ensues is complete war between Eve and the despicable Marjorie, replete with espionage, ill will, and even attempted murder.
Eve’s narration was just the cherry on top. She had a very relatable voice, dropping anecdotes here and there, with neat quips and quite a bit of sarcasm. Eve also loves to lie (for ex: her name is Evelyn, but she likes the name Evangeline better, and so uses the latter), and is borderline sociopathic, but that just made her so much more likeable. (Maybe I’m weird that way?) Whatever. I LOVED the narration. I mean, who wouldn’t with such gems:
You can, in London, go for literally years without seeing anyone you know but as soon as you are either somewhere you shouldn’t be, or with someone you shouldn’t be with, it is guaranteed that friends and acquaintances will start to rain down on you like confetti.
The Lord Of The Rings reference (Eve could be my best friend, seriously):
“Why don’t you let me have that, I can make sure it’s safe.” I reached for the ring, gently so as not to alarm Meg, but she was too quick for me. Her fist snapped closed around it.
“Oh no you don’t,” she said. “This is mine.” She didn’t go so far as to call it her precious, but there was more than a whiff of Gollum about Meg as she clutched the ring to her chest.
But my absolute favourite had to be this:
I have never bought anything in Harrods, it’s not really my kind of shop. I was once there with a friend and thought that I might as well buy some teabags. I needed them and it sells them so it seemed a feasible idea. A few moments later and I was standing open mouthed and speechless with shock as an assistant picked out a box of fifteen teabags that cost thirty pounds. That’s two pounds a bag! Sensing that she was on the verge of losing the sale, the assistant tried to justify the price on the basis that the bags themselves were made of cotton. I was still unable to speak, so she went on to tell me the thread count of the cotton out of which the bags were made. It was higher than that of my bed sheets. So, as I say, not my kind of shop.
I only had only two problems with the book. Firstly, the tense — it kept swapping between present and past tenses in the midst of narration — and secondly, the lack of commas. I’m a bit of a punctuation Nazi, I’ll admit, but the story was so good, it slipped to the back of my mind. ME, A PUNCTUATION NAZI, UNBOTHERED!
This is Kate Fulford’s authorial debut, and if this is anything to go by, I genuinely can’t wait to read anything else she comes up with. She’s so bloody good! I feel I can’t reiterate how much I loved Eve’s narration. I can’t wait to read more of Fulford’s writing, so yeah, I’ll definitely be on the look out!
Note: I was given an ARC by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 21, 2018
Eve is madly in love with her boyfriend Gideon but she wonders if his mother is so protective over him. Although she knows that Gideon is devoted to making their relationship work, she feels that she is overwhelmed with fearing that she will never measure up. Broken from her own dysfunctional family, Gideon is the only person that she will rather spend the rest of her life with. Yet he just worries about his mother presence in his lire, regardless of how she feels about the entire situation. Their relationship takes a turn for the worst when they take things to the next level, but the one thing that reminds true is her love for Gideon.
The one thing that impressed me about this book was the rich characterization. I felt that Gideon was a mommy's boy and Eve behaved too weak for me. I feel that because of how she was raised, she never spoke up for herself. Gideon's mother was way too attached for me, she wanted her son to herself and it was borderline annoying. Yet that is what makes for great writing, so that was not a flaw to the book. I also love the ending, that took me by surprise, it really embodied the beauty of this novel.
Kudos to the amazing author that messaged me about reading it, it was a very good novel!
The one thing that impressed me about this book was the rich characterization. I felt that Gideon was a mommy's boy and Eve behaved too weak for me. I feel that because of how she was raised, she never spoke up for herself. Gideon's mother was way too attached for me, she wanted her son to herself and it was borderline annoying. Yet that is what makes for great writing, so that was not a flaw to the book. I also love the ending, that took me by surprise, it really embodied the beauty of this novel.
Kudos to the amazing author that messaged me about reading it, it was a very good novel!
April 13, 2018
I was thrilled when the author of this book contacted me directly and asked after seeing my review of the other woman if I would like to read a copy of her book which was provided by netgalley, I was thrilled and instantly jamp at the chance of reading this fabulous book which gave me a lot of laughs and gasps along the way, I inhaled it in two days a perfect end to the last two days of my holidays! I loved Eves character I found her hilarious and witty, I nearly had tears rolling down my face at some of her perspectives, eve is dating Gideon who is a professor, his mother Marjorie is quite a possessive old soul and dosen't approve of Eve and Gideons previous relationships she goes out of her way to make eve feel uncomfortable and un welcome. I've mentioned in previous reviews I thoroughly enjoy books to do with family dynamics and I enjoyed the laughs along the way with this book.
March 24, 2018
A deeply satisfying read
I read this book in a day. Engaging, witty,well written and intriguing. The characters entice you to find out more about them and what they will do next. It is a huge pleasure to read a book where for once you are unable to guess what is coming next and where the story will lead you. Would definitely recommend.
I read this book in a day. Engaging, witty,well written and intriguing. The characters entice you to find out more about them and what they will do next. It is a huge pleasure to read a book where for once you are unable to guess what is coming next and where the story will lead you. Would definitely recommend.
May 30, 2018
Hard to believe this is a debut novel. Original, crisp, and unpredictable. Love the twist. I envy the writer.
June 6, 2018
Meet Eve, a quirky young woman, who is determined to marry her love, Gideon, with or without his crazed mother's blessing.
Enter Marjorie, Gideon's mother, a back0stabbing viper with two heads (metaphorically speaking), who seeks to prevent Eve (or anyone for that matter) from marrying her darling son.
I loved this book more than I initially thought I would. Fulford infuses her characters with intense personalities that are prone to clashing with those of others. I loved Eve from the very beginning and emphathized with her struggle for a real family as she was orphaned at six years of age.
Upon first meeting, it is clear that Eve and Marjorie do not get on, nor will they- ever!
'I have come up against mothers before, and in my experience, getting on the right side of them is, if not exactly crucial, then very much to be desired.'
Being just one chapter into the story, I could already feel the potential for high-stakes dramatics.
Having been raised by a strict aunt, Eve seeks a solid, loving familial bond-
'I'm not in the least hung up on the idea of a nuclear family, so long as it's secure, happy, and settled, that'll do me.'
It is this desire for a true family that fuels Eve throughout the novel. She demonstrates a great capacity for tolerance and develops beautifully over the course of the novel. Strong, daring, and far cleverer than she feels herself to be, I simply couldn't help but admire her.
Marjorie. Where to begin!
At first glance, Gideon's mother appears stern, unflinching, and remarkably hostile. She seemed unwilling to give Eve the slightest chance to prove herself, hell-bend instead on driving a wedge between our MC and her only son.
Clingy and controlling, Marjorie was easily my least favourite character. I found myself repeatedly shouting at her as I ploughed through the story. For a time, I tried to understand and even rationalise her poor behaviour, but in the end, Marjorie is simply a bully. However, the true extent of this mother's evil-doing is revealed toward the end of the book.
'Stoop so low as attempted murder.'
Yep, you read that right. Attempted murder. I'm going to let that sink in for a moment.
Marjorie appears to stop at nothing when it comes to manipulating those closest to her.
Did I hate this character enough to beg for her death? Yes, I honestly did!
In-Laws and Outlaws was brilliant and yet terrifying, in a very real way.
Fulford paints a striking picture of a mother with no morals or regret. She kept my attention throughout, forcing me onto an emotional rollercoaster.
I would definitely recommend In-Laws and Outlaws.
MY rating? 5 stars.
Enter Marjorie, Gideon's mother, a back0stabbing viper with two heads (metaphorically speaking), who seeks to prevent Eve (or anyone for that matter) from marrying her darling son.
I loved this book more than I initially thought I would. Fulford infuses her characters with intense personalities that are prone to clashing with those of others. I loved Eve from the very beginning and emphathized with her struggle for a real family as she was orphaned at six years of age.
Upon first meeting, it is clear that Eve and Marjorie do not get on, nor will they- ever!
'I have come up against mothers before, and in my experience, getting on the right side of them is, if not exactly crucial, then very much to be desired.'
Being just one chapter into the story, I could already feel the potential for high-stakes dramatics.
Having been raised by a strict aunt, Eve seeks a solid, loving familial bond-
'I'm not in the least hung up on the idea of a nuclear family, so long as it's secure, happy, and settled, that'll do me.'
It is this desire for a true family that fuels Eve throughout the novel. She demonstrates a great capacity for tolerance and develops beautifully over the course of the novel. Strong, daring, and far cleverer than she feels herself to be, I simply couldn't help but admire her.
Marjorie. Where to begin!
At first glance, Gideon's mother appears stern, unflinching, and remarkably hostile. She seemed unwilling to give Eve the slightest chance to prove herself, hell-bend instead on driving a wedge between our MC and her only son.
Clingy and controlling, Marjorie was easily my least favourite character. I found myself repeatedly shouting at her as I ploughed through the story. For a time, I tried to understand and even rationalise her poor behaviour, but in the end, Marjorie is simply a bully. However, the true extent of this mother's evil-doing is revealed toward the end of the book.
'Stoop so low as attempted murder.'
Yep, you read that right. Attempted murder. I'm going to let that sink in for a moment.
Marjorie appears to stop at nothing when it comes to manipulating those closest to her.
Did I hate this character enough to beg for her death? Yes, I honestly did!
In-Laws and Outlaws was brilliant and yet terrifying, in a very real way.
Fulford paints a striking picture of a mother with no morals or regret. She kept my attention throughout, forcing me onto an emotional rollercoaster.
I would definitely recommend In-Laws and Outlaws.
MY rating? 5 stars.
May 30, 2018
If you love a quirky and hilarious heroine, this debut is for you! Eve has met the love of her life, Gideon and they plan to marry but his mother, Marjorie has other plans for her son--mainly for him to remain single so she can continue to "mother" him. Pitting the two women against each other proves to be a wonderfully funny and contentious battle as there is snarky commentary and dialogue that literally made me laugh out loud (and caused eye-rolls from my husband as he doesn't understand how a good book can bring out such hilarity)! Twists and turns at every corner and just when you think you know how it will end, whoops--you don't! Such a satisfying read and I'm assuming there's a sequel in the works as there are still some secrets about Eve left to discover! This would make a great summer read!
September 6, 2018
An intriguing read. I didn’t like Eve much but that didn’t stop me being interested in how Eve was going to beat Marjorie. For me that was never in doubt. There were moments where I had to suspend disbelief at some of the events but overall it was a different and interesting read and I’m hoping there’s a second book about Eve in the making !
733
733
April 14, 2018
3.5 - I’ve read other books in this category and it’s always hard to believe how extreme some of those things are. This book isn’t like that. It’s a lot more believable. The story is well written and even though the ending is not entirely unpredictable it is interesting enough to keep reading. Most of the characters are unlikeable but still the plot makes you want to read more. My only issue with the book was the lack of good editing. There are many places where there are run on sentences and too many comma splices that make it annoying at times. They do help establish Eve’s character but it’s still a little annoying.
June 16, 2018
This book was recommended to me by the author herself. Having been disappointed by such recommendations before, I went in with low expectations. I shouldn't have. This book was wonderful.
The main character, Eve, is a person I'd like to have as a friend, even if she's not the most honest person on the planet.
I am tempted to say, this is not your usual romantic comedy. It is not a mushy love story about how Eve met Gideon. Rather, it is the story of how Eve met her future in-laws and how this might destroy her relationship to Gideon.
I loved the characters, all of them!
Thank you, Kate Fulford, for recommending your book to me. I truly enjoyed spending time with Eve and Marjorie.
The main character, Eve, is a person I'd like to have as a friend, even if she's not the most honest person on the planet.
I am tempted to say, this is not your usual romantic comedy. It is not a mushy love story about how Eve met Gideon. Rather, it is the story of how Eve met her future in-laws and how this might destroy her relationship to Gideon.
I loved the characters, all of them!
Thank you, Kate Fulford, for recommending your book to me. I truly enjoyed spending time with Eve and Marjorie.
April 19, 2018
A very entertaining book! In-Laws and Outlaws is a hilarious spiral of events, as a future daughter in-law and mother-in-law struggle over the son/groom, without his knowledge. I really enjoyed this book, made me laugh, as the art of power struggles, blackmail, lies and deceit unfolded, with very funny side notes. thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for this early reader edition.
September 2, 2018
Kate will be a guest at the Ampthill LitFest Beer & Books event on Tuesday 18th September at The White Hart in Ampthill.
Much to discuss regarding the nature of lies, family relationships and the Oedipus complex.
Much to discuss regarding the nature of lies, family relationships and the Oedipus complex.
March 28, 2018
I LOVED this book. What a great read. It was interesting, and had those "aha' and "oh no she didn't" moments. This book had me racing to get back to it to continue reading. The format of the book was great, the writing was superb and interesting. This was a light but good read. Do yourself a favor and read this funny book. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
July 13, 2018
I particularly enjoyed this novel. Which led me to remember a quote I read somewhere “Mother-In-law forgets she was once a daughter-in-law”
You wake up every day to the fact that you were never her ideal daughter in law.
In this book The In-Laws and Outlaws we see Eve the protagonist and major character of the novel fighting with her mother-in-law for the heart, care, affection as well as attention for the man she loves_ Gideon.
We also see her confiding in her friend Claire a psychologist as at why she thinks her mother –in-law is deceitful and wants her gone from the picture. While Claire doesn’t share in her conspiracy nor her theories Claire does tell her to relax and stop being intimated by her mother- in-laws, class, stature and taste. She tells her that with time she would warm up to her and the long suspended tension would drop. However, Eve is far from being calm, far from being relaxed and far from trusting her mother in law.
Consolation runs through her stressed spine when Gordons sister opens up to her on how her mother has made everyone who came as close to marrying her son give up on him, break up with him and never come back for personal reasons.
Gideon is blind to his mother’s cold character towards his fiancée Eve and views the women as though they co-existed peaceful and basked in equally shared fraction of his affection and love.
It is an interesting one. Though Eve’s constant stream of consciousness delayed the progress of the novel as her mind was an endless tunnel of thoughts she never failed to think her mother-in-law could be in her immaculate kitchen thinking of ways to nip her relationship at its bud. I would definitely like to see this as a movie.
You wake up every day to the fact that you were never her ideal daughter in law.
In this book The In-Laws and Outlaws we see Eve the protagonist and major character of the novel fighting with her mother-in-law for the heart, care, affection as well as attention for the man she loves_ Gideon.
We also see her confiding in her friend Claire a psychologist as at why she thinks her mother –in-law is deceitful and wants her gone from the picture. While Claire doesn’t share in her conspiracy nor her theories Claire does tell her to relax and stop being intimated by her mother- in-laws, class, stature and taste. She tells her that with time she would warm up to her and the long suspended tension would drop. However, Eve is far from being calm, far from being relaxed and far from trusting her mother in law.
Consolation runs through her stressed spine when Gordons sister opens up to her on how her mother has made everyone who came as close to marrying her son give up on him, break up with him and never come back for personal reasons.
Gideon is blind to his mother’s cold character towards his fiancée Eve and views the women as though they co-existed peaceful and basked in equally shared fraction of his affection and love.
It is an interesting one. Though Eve’s constant stream of consciousness delayed the progress of the novel as her mind was an endless tunnel of thoughts she never failed to think her mother-in-law could be in her immaculate kitchen thinking of ways to nip her relationship at its bud. I would definitely like to see this as a movie.
May 7, 2018
This review first published on Oh Just Books.
Lovely. Absolutely lovely. This is a book that drew me in from page one, and not too many books do, specially if I don't already know and love the author.
From the outset I was feeling very positive about this book. I needed to know where exactly the story was going so I used to sneak even 5 minutes of free time into this book! I'm sure you guys must have felt like that about certain books too. It's wonderful when that happens.
Eve is a strong, kind, beautiful woman. And she has borderline psychopathic tendencies. Her prospective mother-in-law Marjorie is a conniving, overbearing woman who is very attached to her son Gideon -- Eve's boyfriend. Gideon is absolutely oblivious to everything.
Read the rest of the review here.
*A review copy was provided to Oh Just Books by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Lovely. Absolutely lovely. This is a book that drew me in from page one, and not too many books do, specially if I don't already know and love the author.
From the outset I was feeling very positive about this book. I needed to know where exactly the story was going so I used to sneak even 5 minutes of free time into this book! I'm sure you guys must have felt like that about certain books too. It's wonderful when that happens.
Eve is a strong, kind, beautiful woman. And she has borderline psychopathic tendencies. Her prospective mother-in-law Marjorie is a conniving, overbearing woman who is very attached to her son Gideon -- Eve's boyfriend. Gideon is absolutely oblivious to everything.
Read the rest of the review here.
*A review copy was provided to Oh Just Books by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
April 24, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
When I started to read this book, I got a message from the author. It was a very thoughtful move on her part, and it felt really good. I love when an author is interacting with her/his readers. This way I feel the strong urge to give my undivided attention to the story. And what a story it was...
At first it was really strange to jump from one scene to another in one chapter, and sometimes I was lost and confused, but I got used to it as the story progressed. The writing style is good, the characters are complex and the relationships between them are very interesting. I felt a kinship to Eve, even if I didn't love her character. Her personality sometimes clashed with mine, but I understand where she's coming from, so I don't hate her. Marjoire is every girl's nightmare. She's a manipulative mother hen, and thinks no one is good enough for her son.
There was a lot of twists and turns in the story, and the ending surprised me. It was shocking, but oh so good. :)
All in all I think the female characters are the spirit of this book, and I was enjoying the story so much because of them.
If you like to read about family drama, this book is for you.
After reading In-Laws and Outlaws I want more story from Kate Fulford. That's for sure.
When I started to read this book, I got a message from the author. It was a very thoughtful move on her part, and it felt really good. I love when an author is interacting with her/his readers. This way I feel the strong urge to give my undivided attention to the story. And what a story it was...
At first it was really strange to jump from one scene to another in one chapter, and sometimes I was lost and confused, but I got used to it as the story progressed. The writing style is good, the characters are complex and the relationships between them are very interesting. I felt a kinship to Eve, even if I didn't love her character. Her personality sometimes clashed with mine, but I understand where she's coming from, so I don't hate her. Marjoire is every girl's nightmare. She's a manipulative mother hen, and thinks no one is good enough for her son.
There was a lot of twists and turns in the story, and the ending surprised me. It was shocking, but oh so good. :)
All in all I think the female characters are the spirit of this book, and I was enjoying the story so much because of them.
If you like to read about family drama, this book is for you.
After reading In-Laws and Outlaws I want more story from Kate Fulford. That's for sure.
June 15, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised about this novel. I picked it up on Netgalley for free and honestly picked it up for the cover and the back description.
I really enjoyed the supporting characters, although sometimes the main character was a little hard to digest in parts. At the end of all of this, it vibed very Bridget Jones Diary.
I honestly have to say though, the twist in this novel, completely took me by surprise. Seriously, this novel took a turn that I could not have foreseen but I was pretty okay with it. All in all, this is a decent quick read, I got through it in a day.
I really enjoyed the supporting characters, although sometimes the main character was a little hard to digest in parts. At the end of all of this, it vibed very Bridget Jones Diary.
I honestly have to say though, the twist in this novel, completely took me by surprise. Seriously, this novel took a turn that I could not have foreseen but I was pretty okay with it. All in all, this is a decent quick read, I got through it in a day.
April 19, 2018
Eve has met Gideon and is really happy with the way the relationship is going..... has she met the one at last....... until she meets his mother Marjorie! Marjorie definitely doesn't think that Eve is good enough for her son and so she is determined to get rid of her whatever Gideon thinks!
A great story, I loved the fact that Eve wasnt perfect herself, and there were plenty of twists and turns and a good ending
A great story, I loved the fact that Eve wasnt perfect herself, and there were plenty of twists and turns and a good ending
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