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The Third Mrs. Durst
A twisted Cinderella story from New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Ann Aguirre Marlena Altizer Durst lives in her husband's shadow. He controls her every move―what she wears, the food she eats, and the friends she's allowed to make. If she disobeys, there are...consequences. And he has all the power. To outsiders, it seems that she leads a fairy-tale life. But nobody ever wonders if Cinderella was happy after she married the prince. Marlena has traded freedom and safety for luxurious imprisonment, and most days, that seems like a bad bargain. Death may be the only exit she's allowed. Just like his first wife. And his second. Unless she flips the script. " The Third Mrs. Durst is a slow, dark burn that leads to a fantastic explosion of an ending."―Victoria Helen Stone, bestselling author of Jane Doe
312 pages, Hardcover
First published August 8, 2019
88 people are currently reading
2267 people want to read
About the author
Ann Aguirre
81 books7,065 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Ann Aguirre has been a clown, a clerk, a savior of stray kittens, and a voice actress, not necessarily in that order. She grew up in a yellow house across from a cornfield, but now she lives in Mexico with her family. She writes all kinds of genre fiction, but she has an eternal soft spot for a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 450 reviews
September 1, 2021
Ho-ly shit, I loved this book so much.
Now, if you are a person who gets upset when you see rape & abuse in books, then you may want to steer clear of this one. There's a lot of casual awfulness that happens to our Marlena.
This isn't the story of a victim, though.
This is the story of an apex predator.
It was complete revenge porn and it was lovely.
Ok, so you know how in a lot of books (or movies) when the main character tries to set things right, they do it by following the rules? Maybe they bend the law, but they don't actually break it. They don't lie, they don't cheat, and their end goal is to see the bad guy locked up in prison.
They aren't going to stoop to the level of the bad guy.
Not so with our heroine.
She's gonna dry-fuck this asshole, set him on fire, and run her foot through the greasy stain he left on the ground. And then she's going to walk off with his bank account.
Or that's the plan.
Assuming she survives being the Third Mrs. Durst.
This isn't my preferred genre, and I haven't had the time or the energy to read very many physical books lately. Comics and audiobooks have been it. So, this one almost went right back to the library, but on a whim, I started it 3 days before it was due back. <--I finished it with time to spare.
I could NOT put it down.
Highly Recommended.
Now, if you are a person who gets upset when you see rape & abuse in books, then you may want to steer clear of this one. There's a lot of casual awfulness that happens to our Marlena.
This isn't the story of a victim, though.
This is the story of an apex predator.
It was complete revenge porn and it was lovely.
Ok, so you know how in a lot of books (or movies) when the main character tries to set things right, they do it by following the rules? Maybe they bend the law, but they don't actually break it. They don't lie, they don't cheat, and their end goal is to see the bad guy locked up in prison.
They aren't going to stoop to the level of the bad guy.
Not so with our heroine.
She's gonna dry-fuck this asshole, set him on fire, and run her foot through the greasy stain he left on the ground. And then she's going to walk off with his bank account.
Or that's the plan.
Assuming she survives being the Third Mrs. Durst.
This isn't my preferred genre, and I haven't had the time or the energy to read very many physical books lately. Comics and audiobooks have been it. So, this one almost went right back to the library, but on a whim, I started it 3 days before it was due back. <--I finished it with time to spare.
I could NOT put it down.
Highly Recommended.
May 25, 2019
This story is completely plot driven, which can work if done properly. However, that's hard to pull off when said plot is more tired than a sloth with narcolepsy.
On a more positive note, this is a very quick read, probably because there is less than zero character development.
This is a subpar non-thrilling thriller slash nothing mysterious mystery with nothing new to offer to the genre.
Lastly there are no surprises in this story. Don't let the other reviews fool you. I am telling you THERE IS NO TWIST.
I cannot recommend this book.
⭐⭐ because the writing is swift and to the point without being bogged down with unnecessary bullshit which is the only reason I was able to finish the book.
*** I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
On a more positive note, this is a very quick read, probably because there is less than zero character development.
This is a subpar non-thrilling thriller slash nothing mysterious mystery with nothing new to offer to the genre.
Lastly there are no surprises in this story. Don't let the other reviews fool you. I am telling you THERE IS NO TWIST.
I cannot recommend this book.
⭐⭐ because the writing is swift and to the point without being bogged down with unnecessary bullshit which is the only reason I was able to finish the book.
*** I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
August 19, 2019
2.5 stars
"Some people just need killing"
I fluctuated between a 2 and a 3-star rating for this book depending on where I was at in the story, so at its conclusion, I settled on a 2.5 star rating. This twisted Cinderella tale was a fast read and yet it was not the book for me. We, as readers, can't love them all and although some are loving this book, I just didn't get there. There were points in this book where I thought "No, just no" and other times I thought "Now, things are beginning to get interesting." But at the end, I just failed to connect to the story and the characters.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Midnight Ink in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
"Some people just need killing"
I fluctuated between a 2 and a 3-star rating for this book depending on where I was at in the story, so at its conclusion, I settled on a 2.5 star rating. This twisted Cinderella tale was a fast read and yet it was not the book for me. We, as readers, can't love them all and although some are loving this book, I just didn't get there. There were points in this book where I thought "No, just no" and other times I thought "Now, things are beginning to get interesting." But at the end, I just failed to connect to the story and the characters.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Midnight Ink in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 16, 2019
You can also watch this video on YouTube.
*malicious grin*
This book is everything.
You don’t even fucking KNOW.
I just finished it and my fingers are actually shaking as I try to type out this review. Because adrenaline.
Real talk, if you are a super sweet person that has never once contemplated doing serious bodily harm to another human being, this book is probably not for you. This is more geared toward those of us who fall closer to the “keep an eye on that” end of the sociopath spectrum.
The blurb hints that this is a story filled with violence and murder and other dark themes. It is. Whoo boy. But, speaking as someone who is especially harsh when these themes aren’t handled well, lemme tell you, Aguirre wielded them with the deft precision of a well-sharpened blade in the hand of a master swordswoman. When they hit, they cut deep, but you know each and every slice to your psyche was inflicted with surgical precision.
There are so many messages here. So many fundamental truths. And when spoken through the titular character’s stark, unabashed voice, they become profound to the point that I highlighted entire paragraphs.
On why she married Mr. Durst, despite the warning signs:
“I chose the road that looked prettiest from a distance, but I didn’t know then – sometimes the horizon is bright because it’s on fire.”
Foreshadowing. Yes. So here for it.
Which made this a delicious slow-build, where I never quite knew what was going on. I love unreliable narrators for this reason, and Mrs. Durst is one of the best I’ve read in a long time.
I fucking LOVED HER. Because I got her. Let me just say that not everyone will or can understand what motivates her. I do. And I’m not able to go into why right now, because spoilers.
So. Many. Spoilers.
What isn’t a spoiler is that Mr. Durst is abusive. This aspect of the story was almost too well done. Not even 25% of the way in, my blood was singing for vengeance.
As someone who has watched a loved one be manipulated, isolated, and broken down by their abuser, slowly, over the course of years, so that you don’t even recognize them anymore, this was really hard to read at times. Super trigger warnings for abuse, rape, and extreme violence.
But please, please don’t be put off by that warning. Like I said, these themes are well-executed. And there’s so much more to this story than murder and mayhem. The representation here is off the charts. And not just in obvious ways, but in smaller details that I doubt a lot of readers might catch because we’re so used to random side characters like doctors and cops always being men.
Subvert the patriarchy. Yes, queen.
If there’s any justice in the world, those hacks in Hollywood will toss out whatever remake script they’re currently considering cashing in on and instead produce this. I would watch the hell out of it. It would make an unbelievably good movie.
That ending.
Gah.
Honestly, I cannot recommend this enough for anyone looking for an adrenaline-packed thriller with darker themes and a female lead with questionable morals and sinister intentions.
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August 2, 2019
EXCERPT: Some people just need killing. And maybe I'm one of them.
My husband certainly thinks so, but then he feels that way about most women. I may not survive his style of love.
His first wife didn't. Neither did his second.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Marlena Altizer Durst lives in her husband’s shadow. He controls her every move—what she wears, the food she eats, and the friends she’s allowed to make. If she disobeys, there are… consequences. And he has all the power, so nobody would believe her.
Her Cinderella story has been well-documented and it seems that she leads a fairy-tale life. But nobody ever wonders if Cinderella was happy after she married the prince. Marlena has traded freedom and safety for luxurious imprisonment, and most days, that seems like a bad bargain. Death may be the only exit she’s allowed. Just like his first wife. And his second.
Unless she flips the script.
And gets away with murder…
MY THOUGHTS: It seems that every character in this book has a hidden agenda and nothing is quite as it seems. Which makes for an interesting, if somewhat far fetched at times, read.
None of the characters are likeable. Definitely not Michael, nor Marlena, his 'perfect' wife. Even Joanna Van Houten has a dark side. But perhaps that is what is needed to be rich and successful.
The Third Mrs Durst takes the meaning of 'manipulative' to a whole new level.
Definitely worth reading. This is a book that I would not be surprised to see being made into a movie.
Ann Aguirre has written a lot of books. I have never read her before. I plan on remedying that.
Favourite quote: People in the hills where I'd lived were born in bathtubs, not under lucky stars.
💝💕💖💗.5
THE AUTHOR: Ann Aguirre is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author with a degree in English Literature; before she began writing full time, she was a clown, a clerk, a voice actress, and a savior of stray kittens, not necessarily in that order. She grew up in a yellow house across from a cornfield, but now she lives in sunny Mexico with her husband, children, and various pets. She likes all kinds of books, emo music, action movies and Doctor Who. She writes all kind of fiction in multiple genres, both YA and for adults.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Midnight Ink via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Third Mrs Durst by Ann Aguirre for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my profile page on Goodreads.com or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
My husband certainly thinks so, but then he feels that way about most women. I may not survive his style of love.
His first wife didn't. Neither did his second.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Marlena Altizer Durst lives in her husband’s shadow. He controls her every move—what she wears, the food she eats, and the friends she’s allowed to make. If she disobeys, there are… consequences. And he has all the power, so nobody would believe her.
Her Cinderella story has been well-documented and it seems that she leads a fairy-tale life. But nobody ever wonders if Cinderella was happy after she married the prince. Marlena has traded freedom and safety for luxurious imprisonment, and most days, that seems like a bad bargain. Death may be the only exit she’s allowed. Just like his first wife. And his second.
Unless she flips the script.
And gets away with murder…
MY THOUGHTS: It seems that every character in this book has a hidden agenda and nothing is quite as it seems. Which makes for an interesting, if somewhat far fetched at times, read.
None of the characters are likeable. Definitely not Michael, nor Marlena, his 'perfect' wife. Even Joanna Van Houten has a dark side. But perhaps that is what is needed to be rich and successful.
The Third Mrs Durst takes the meaning of 'manipulative' to a whole new level.
Definitely worth reading. This is a book that I would not be surprised to see being made into a movie.
Ann Aguirre has written a lot of books. I have never read her before. I plan on remedying that.
Favourite quote: People in the hills where I'd lived were born in bathtubs, not under lucky stars.
💝💕💖💗.5
THE AUTHOR: Ann Aguirre is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author with a degree in English Literature; before she began writing full time, she was a clown, a clerk, a voice actress, and a savior of stray kittens, not necessarily in that order. She grew up in a yellow house across from a cornfield, but now she lives in sunny Mexico with her husband, children, and various pets. She likes all kinds of books, emo music, action movies and Doctor Who. She writes all kind of fiction in multiple genres, both YA and for adults.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Midnight Ink via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Third Mrs Durst by Ann Aguirre for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my profile page on Goodreads.com or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
July 10, 2019
Some people just need killing. And maybe I'm one of them.
My husband certainly seems to think so, but then, he feels that way about most women. I may not survive his style of love.
His first wife didn't. Neither did his second.
The flames are everywhere now. It's getting hard to breathe.
We'll see who dies today.
The novel opens with this intriguing prologue that drew me in. Unfortunately the rest of the book didn't live up to this early promise for me. Where I was hoping for a clever and engaging sparring match between two smart and crafty spouses, I found a cliched plot, over the top violence and cardboard characters.
Briefly Marlena, a poor backwoods girl escapes into a world of modelling then grooms herself to marry a wealthy business man who turns out to be a controlling, violent monster with underworld connections who treats his wives as disposable commoditites. After two years of being more or less held prisoner in their swanky apartment, beaten nearly to death as punishment for minor faults, Marlena knows her use by date is fast approaching but as the prologue (and the book description) tells us, Marlena has another plan.
I found it difficult to engage with any of the characters. Marlena is not easy to like and I just couldn't get interested in her fate. I also felt the book description and prologue gave too much away and a different handling of the plot and characters could have improved this thriller. However, I seem to be in the minority, so if you're interested in the novel do read it and make up your own mind.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Midnight Ink for an advanced copy of the book to read.
My husband certainly seems to think so, but then, he feels that way about most women. I may not survive his style of love.
His first wife didn't. Neither did his second.
The flames are everywhere now. It's getting hard to breathe.
We'll see who dies today.
The novel opens with this intriguing prologue that drew me in. Unfortunately the rest of the book didn't live up to this early promise for me. Where I was hoping for a clever and engaging sparring match between two smart and crafty spouses, I found a cliched plot, over the top violence and cardboard characters.
Briefly Marlena, a poor backwoods girl escapes into a world of modelling then grooms herself to marry a wealthy business man who turns out to be a controlling, violent monster with underworld connections who treats his wives as disposable commoditites. After two years of being more or less held prisoner in their swanky apartment, beaten nearly to death as punishment for minor faults, Marlena knows her use by date is fast approaching but as the prologue (and the book description) tells us, Marlena has another plan.
I found it difficult to engage with any of the characters. Marlena is not easy to like and I just couldn't get interested in her fate. I also felt the book description and prologue gave too much away and a different handling of the plot and characters could have improved this thriller. However, I seem to be in the minority, so if you're interested in the novel do read it and make up your own mind.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher Midnight Ink for an advanced copy of the book to read.
August 31, 2019
I’d been looking forward to reading Ann Aguirre’s The Third Mrs. Durst for a while after I saw some early publicity featuring it. The premise is fantastic—“Some people just need killing.”
When it arrived in the mail, I was beyond excited. That weekend I was staying at a friend’s house and I was up early on Sunday morning. There was a huge thunderstorm in Chicago (knocked out power to a bunch of areas), and it was pouring rain. I sat on my friend’s front porch for hours with a key lime bubbly drink and this book, watching the rain. It was one of the best mornings I have had in ages! I devoured more than half of the book before she woke up!
About the Book
Marlena Altizer grew up in the type of disadvantage that most of us can barely imagine. With an addict for a mother, days without food being a common occurrence, and not having access to basic comforts such as electricity and a safe home, Marlena does the only thing she can—she leaves.
Not even eighteen, Marlena finds herself living on the streets of Memphis and finding a way to a better life for herself. She gets the attention of a talent scout, who begins placing Marlena in local modeling gigs and helps her find a place to live. Before long, Marlena’s natural beauty and inner determination carry her higher and further in her career, until she ultimately catches the eye of one Michael Durst.
Michael Durst is handsome, charming, wealthy, and influential. And soon Marlena Altizer becomes Mrs. Michael Durst. The third Mrs. Michael Durst as it were. And before she knows it, Marlena has become only a shadow of who she once was. Michael controls everything, from what she weighs, to what she wears, to who she socializes with. If he wants her to learn a new skill, another language, or lose weight, she is forced to comply. Because if she doesn’t, there are consequences…
Marlena gave up her independence for the luxurious life Michael Durst can provide her. To the outside, she has the fairy tale life. But behind the closed doors of their penthouse in Manhattan, Marlena is trapped. No one ever thinks to ask if the princess in the tower is happy. And now, death may be Marlena’s only escape from this marriage. Unless she can find a way to turn things on Michael Durst before he does it to her.
Reflection
I am not kidding when I say this book pulled me straight into the story and didn’t let up. Aguirre has an incredibly unique writing style. The story was mostly written from the context of Marlena saying what happened, told in a somewhat distant way. There is very little dialogue—the book is firmly narrated by Marlena—and it feels as though she is telling us a story. Her early years leaving home, being discovered by the modeling agency, and meeting Michael Durst all happen in the first third of the book. And from there, the razy part happens…
Marlena is so fascinating because I almost want to call her an unreliable narrator, but if I think back on it, she doesn’t lie to us. She does tell the truth, she just keeps some parts back until the right time to reveal them. The twists (if you want to call them that) don’t have a bombshell drop. They are slowly unveiled until the moment you fully connect the reality and you realize that maybe Marlena kind of already told you what was happening, just maybe in fewer words.
As a girl who loves twists, I know this may seem like it would be disappointing, but it wasn’t at all. In fact, the twists to the story—though drawn out in the reveal—were kind of amazing. As things began to click in my mind, I just felt even more captivated by the story. Fantastic!
It was also hard to connect with many of the characters because of how the story was told. However, I didn’t mind that. I did find them all interesting in their own way. There was always the feeling that there was more to every character than met the eye. Literally every character, from her friend in her modeling days, to her body guard, to the wealthy people she befriends during her marriage. They all have more for you to learn about them. They are all dynamic in their own right.
I don’t want to spoil too much of the book, so I’ll just say this is a story that I couldn’t stop reading if I tried! I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Kaye Publicity and Midnight Ink for my copy. Opinions are my own.
When it arrived in the mail, I was beyond excited. That weekend I was staying at a friend’s house and I was up early on Sunday morning. There was a huge thunderstorm in Chicago (knocked out power to a bunch of areas), and it was pouring rain. I sat on my friend’s front porch for hours with a key lime bubbly drink and this book, watching the rain. It was one of the best mornings I have had in ages! I devoured more than half of the book before she woke up!
About the Book
Marlena Altizer grew up in the type of disadvantage that most of us can barely imagine. With an addict for a mother, days without food being a common occurrence, and not having access to basic comforts such as electricity and a safe home, Marlena does the only thing she can—she leaves.
Not even eighteen, Marlena finds herself living on the streets of Memphis and finding a way to a better life for herself. She gets the attention of a talent scout, who begins placing Marlena in local modeling gigs and helps her find a place to live. Before long, Marlena’s natural beauty and inner determination carry her higher and further in her career, until she ultimately catches the eye of one Michael Durst.
Michael Durst is handsome, charming, wealthy, and influential. And soon Marlena Altizer becomes Mrs. Michael Durst. The third Mrs. Michael Durst as it were. And before she knows it, Marlena has become only a shadow of who she once was. Michael controls everything, from what she weighs, to what she wears, to who she socializes with. If he wants her to learn a new skill, another language, or lose weight, she is forced to comply. Because if she doesn’t, there are consequences…
Marlena gave up her independence for the luxurious life Michael Durst can provide her. To the outside, she has the fairy tale life. But behind the closed doors of their penthouse in Manhattan, Marlena is trapped. No one ever thinks to ask if the princess in the tower is happy. And now, death may be Marlena’s only escape from this marriage. Unless she can find a way to turn things on Michael Durst before he does it to her.
Reflection
I am not kidding when I say this book pulled me straight into the story and didn’t let up. Aguirre has an incredibly unique writing style. The story was mostly written from the context of Marlena saying what happened, told in a somewhat distant way. There is very little dialogue—the book is firmly narrated by Marlena—and it feels as though she is telling us a story. Her early years leaving home, being discovered by the modeling agency, and meeting Michael Durst all happen in the first third of the book. And from there, the razy part happens…
Marlena is so fascinating because I almost want to call her an unreliable narrator, but if I think back on it, she doesn’t lie to us. She does tell the truth, she just keeps some parts back until the right time to reveal them. The twists (if you want to call them that) don’t have a bombshell drop. They are slowly unveiled until the moment you fully connect the reality and you realize that maybe Marlena kind of already told you what was happening, just maybe in fewer words.
As a girl who loves twists, I know this may seem like it would be disappointing, but it wasn’t at all. In fact, the twists to the story—though drawn out in the reveal—were kind of amazing. As things began to click in my mind, I just felt even more captivated by the story. Fantastic!
It was also hard to connect with many of the characters because of how the story was told. However, I didn’t mind that. I did find them all interesting in their own way. There was always the feeling that there was more to every character than met the eye. Literally every character, from her friend in her modeling days, to her body guard, to the wealthy people she befriends during her marriage. They all have more for you to learn about them. They are all dynamic in their own right.
I don’t want to spoil too much of the book, so I’ll just say this is a story that I couldn’t stop reading if I tried! I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Kaye Publicity and Midnight Ink for my copy. Opinions are my own.
March 13, 2019
The Third Mrs. Durst, a mystery thriller, was a solid 4 stars. The book centers around Marlena-a young woman who had a rough upbringing. With a druggie mother, multiple siblings by different fathers and little money-Marlena catches the eye of the rich and powerful Mr. Durst and later becomes his third wife (the previous two being deceased).
Sounds like a dream come true, or is it?! No spoilers but there is much more going on than just dealing with a narcissistic/abusive husband.
The Third Mrs. Durst is a fast paced book that was an enjoyable read. Highly recommend to fans of mystery thriller books. Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sounds like a dream come true, or is it?! No spoilers but there is much more going on than just dealing with a narcissistic/abusive husband.
The Third Mrs. Durst is a fast paced book that was an enjoyable read. Highly recommend to fans of mystery thriller books. Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2019
Great psychological thriller about Marlena and her difficult life which doesn’t end after leaving family home. Cinderella story gone wrong. Very quick read with twists and turns till the end. I definitely have to check other books by Ann Aguirre.
Thank you to NetGalley and Midnight Ink for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Midnight Ink for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2019
"Some people just need killing" That line had me needing to read this book - and it did not disappoint. The Third Mrs Durst was a fast read that was fun but very dark. It was a book that you just want to keep reading because anything is possible in this story. None of the characters are particularly likeable but you do start to feel for them - and not all of it is nice though.
It starts with a young girl Marlena making the decision to make something of herself by getting out of the small country town she lives in. She becomes a model and an actress and this is where she meets Michael Durst. After their second meeting in Germany Michael sweeps her off her feet and gives her the Cinderella life she always dreamed of. But on the inside Marlena's life is fair from the fairytale. Michael is abusive and controlling and she is just a token wife. The only way to get away from him is for one of them to die...
Thanks to Midnight Ink and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
It starts with a young girl Marlena making the decision to make something of herself by getting out of the small country town she lives in. She becomes a model and an actress and this is where she meets Michael Durst. After their second meeting in Germany Michael sweeps her off her feet and gives her the Cinderella life she always dreamed of. But on the inside Marlena's life is fair from the fairytale. Michael is abusive and controlling and she is just a token wife. The only way to get away from him is for one of them to die...
Thanks to Midnight Ink and Netgalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. All opinions are my own and are in no way biased.
September 15, 2020
”Sometimes the horizon is bright because it’s on fire”
I’ve had the eARC for “The third Mrs. Durst” sitting in my kindle for more than a year, but as you fellow Netgalley enthusiasts will know, when you’re on a requesting spree you can find yourself with quite the number of books on your TBR and some of them stay there forgotten for a long time... Now I’m chastising myself for not reading it before! That was FUN!!
Probably one of my favorite genres is the female revenge stories, and if it’s driven towards her psycho husband that’s absolutely heaven for me! This cat and mouse, rags to riches story may not be the most original one, in fact we’ve all read it hundreds of times before, but still managed to grabbed from the very beginning.
The pace didn’t slow down for a minute and things kept happening (maybe too many at some point). Michael Durst must be one of the most despicable (and over the top) characters I’ve ever read. Yes, we’ve got it, he’s a f*cking psycho! Maybe tone him down a little bit, cause at certain points he looked like a caricature! As you can imagine I was rooting for Marlena at all times, although she didn’t seem so sure of her plan all along.
My critique with this one is that, towards the end, there were certain aspects that required such a huge suspension of belief (as if the rest of the story didn’t require it, right? 😆) that detracted a little from the fun I was having.
Perfect read if you’re in the mood for some over the top revenge story that, while not being innovative, will keep you entertained for a few hours.
Thanks to Netgalley and Midnight Ink for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve had the eARC for “The third Mrs. Durst” sitting in my kindle for more than a year, but as you fellow Netgalley enthusiasts will know, when you’re on a requesting spree you can find yourself with quite the number of books on your TBR and some of them stay there forgotten for a long time... Now I’m chastising myself for not reading it before! That was FUN!!
Probably one of my favorite genres is the female revenge stories, and if it’s driven towards her psycho husband that’s absolutely heaven for me! This cat and mouse, rags to riches story may not be the most original one, in fact we’ve all read it hundreds of times before, but still managed to grabbed from the very beginning.
The pace didn’t slow down for a minute and things kept happening (maybe too many at some point). Michael Durst must be one of the most despicable (and over the top) characters I’ve ever read. Yes, we’ve got it, he’s a f*cking psycho! Maybe tone him down a little bit, cause at certain points he looked like a caricature! As you can imagine I was rooting for Marlena at all times, although she didn’t seem so sure of her plan all along.
My critique with this one is that, towards the end, there were certain aspects that required such a huge suspension of belief (as if the rest of the story didn’t require it, right? 😆) that detracted a little from the fun I was having.
Perfect read if you’re in the mood for some over the top revenge story that, while not being innovative, will keep you entertained for a few hours.
Thanks to Netgalley and Midnight Ink for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2019
Stories often surprise me, but The Third Mrs. Durst really surprised me. I love an excellent twist here and there. This is a dark menacing thriller about a young backwoods girl who escapes that life of extreme poverty. Instead, she becomes a model and attracts the attention of an older man, Mr. Durst. She wants the life that will come from being this rich man's wife. At least, that's what she thinks at first. He's not the same behind closed doors. He's every married woman's nightmare, the controlling abusive husband/stellar public citizen and man about town. How will she untie herself from this man? Well, I'm certainly not going to tell you that. This is an excellent read that will steal hours of your life before you realize it. So tense and taught and chilling! Read it! Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2019
The premise of this storyline "Some people just need killing" was the hook line and sinker that made me hit that request button.
Unfortunately, this was a disappointment for me. I found it so difficult to like the main character! She was calculating. This books tries to be a sexy and hot version of a triangle of women rooting to kill the husband Mr. Durst.
The sex scenes in here are just pretty awful and not sexy AT ALL. The scenes are just plain let's have sex with zero buildup. Yikes... no thank you!
All of the relationships in the book seemed very forced and not natural at all. I felt like this was a bit of a train wreck in all honesty. This was not a worthy suspense/revenge tail!
It's also a slow burn and sadly just doesn't deliver at all.
Overall, 2 stars
Thank you to Netgalley and Midnight Ink for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 8/8/19
Published to Goodreads: 3/10/19
Unfortunately, this was a disappointment for me. I found it so difficult to like the main character! She was calculating. This books tries to be a sexy and hot version of a triangle of women rooting to kill the husband Mr. Durst.
The sex scenes in here are just pretty awful and not sexy AT ALL. The scenes are just plain let's have sex with zero buildup. Yikes... no thank you!
All of the relationships in the book seemed very forced and not natural at all. I felt like this was a bit of a train wreck in all honesty. This was not a worthy suspense/revenge tail!
It's also a slow burn and sadly just doesn't deliver at all.
Overall, 2 stars
Thank you to Netgalley and Midnight Ink for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 8/8/19
Published to Goodreads: 3/10/19
February 4, 2022
Well written character driven and emotionally charged novel. At times the content was difficult to swallow as there is a lot of physical and emotional domestic abuse. There was also a lot to cheer for as we see the women pushback. Won't say anymore for those who have not picked up 'The Third Mrs. Durst' other than it immersed me from start to finish in all the twists, turns and kept me on the edge-of-my-seat till the very end.
August 11, 2019
Marlena left her home at sixteen to escape her tough life. She landed a modeling contract, and worked steadily until her big break. After a particularly successful job, she was offered more jobs, including an opportunity to move to Germany. That is where she was courted by Michael Durst. Now married, they lead the perfect life in public, but behind closed doors he is demanding and cruel.
Told from Marlena's viewpoint, she recalls her young days as a model up until her present life. Marlena wants to leave her marriage, but doesn't have many opportunities. Michael keeps constant watch on her, and he has a personal security guard with her at all times. The only person in Marlena's life that she really trusts is Jenny, her best friend who she met when they were teens starting their modeling careers. To get away from her husband, Marlena needs help, but she's not sure who else she can trust.
A psychological thriller with an unreliable narrator. This is a plot driven story with plenty of action. It's fun and exciting, but I had some questions in the end that took a little away from my enjoyment of the book. I've liked Ann Aguirre's young adult novels, and I look forward to reading more adult thrillers by her. Dark, devious, and entertaining.
I received a free digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Told from Marlena's viewpoint, she recalls her young days as a model up until her present life. Marlena wants to leave her marriage, but doesn't have many opportunities. Michael keeps constant watch on her, and he has a personal security guard with her at all times. The only person in Marlena's life that she really trusts is Jenny, her best friend who she met when they were teens starting their modeling careers. To get away from her husband, Marlena needs help, but she's not sure who else she can trust.
A psychological thriller with an unreliable narrator. This is a plot driven story with plenty of action. It's fun and exciting, but I had some questions in the end that took a little away from my enjoyment of the book. I've liked Ann Aguirre's young adult novels, and I look forward to reading more adult thrillers by her. Dark, devious, and entertaining.
I received a free digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 8, 2019
4.5 stars
Marlena came from a very poor family, with a drug addicted mother, an absent father and several younger half brothers and sisters. Her older sister left several years ago and has never looked back.
At 16, she gathered up her meager belongings and leaves for the big city. She lucks into modeling and becomes quite well known and wealthy. She now leads a fairy tale life.
She meets and marries a very rich man who will give her everything she deserves. But if comes with a price. He controls her every move. He monitors what she eats, when she eats, he dresses her, he sends her to school to learn foreign languages. He even invents her family background to make her 'perfect'.
He has chosen a personal bodyguard for her. He is to report if she does anything outside of what he authorized. She wants to go to a particular store by herself, she must ask her bodyguard if it is okay with her husband. If she disobeys any of his rules, there are consequences. He has all the power.
Then she discovers that his first two wives died .. one was a car accident, the other committed suicide. She just knows that he killed them or had them killed. She supposes they just weren't perfect enough.
The only way out of this mess is that one of them is going to have to die. Who will it be?
There are lots of twists and turns that you won't see coming. It's a real page-turner.
Many thanks to the author / Midnight Ink Books / Netgalley for the advanced digital copy of this psychological suspense. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Marlena came from a very poor family, with a drug addicted mother, an absent father and several younger half brothers and sisters. Her older sister left several years ago and has never looked back.
At 16, she gathered up her meager belongings and leaves for the big city. She lucks into modeling and becomes quite well known and wealthy. She now leads a fairy tale life.
She meets and marries a very rich man who will give her everything she deserves. But if comes with a price. He controls her every move. He monitors what she eats, when she eats, he dresses her, he sends her to school to learn foreign languages. He even invents her family background to make her 'perfect'.
He has chosen a personal bodyguard for her. He is to report if she does anything outside of what he authorized. She wants to go to a particular store by herself, she must ask her bodyguard if it is okay with her husband. If she disobeys any of his rules, there are consequences. He has all the power.
Then she discovers that his first two wives died .. one was a car accident, the other committed suicide. She just knows that he killed them or had them killed. She supposes they just weren't perfect enough.
The only way out of this mess is that one of them is going to have to die. Who will it be?
There are lots of twists and turns that you won't see coming. It's a real page-turner.
Many thanks to the author / Midnight Ink Books / Netgalley for the advanced digital copy of this psychological suspense. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
November 10, 2025
4 ⭐️ = Good.
Hardback.
I was really undecided as to how I should rate this one… a 3.5 or a 4. Because it was quite different from anything I’ve read before, I have given it a 4.
A little bit of murder and a little bit of mystery… a decent combination.
I have a feeling that this won’t be for everyone though!
Hardback.
I was really undecided as to how I should rate this one… a 3.5 or a 4. Because it was quite different from anything I’ve read before, I have given it a 4.
A little bit of murder and a little bit of mystery… a decent combination.
I have a feeling that this won’t be for everyone though!
May 29, 2019
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy of The Third Mrs. Durst by Ann Aguirre for my honest review.
An enjoyable, fast paced thrilling read. A book of sheer suspense and pure revenge. Marlena, gets swept off her feet by a rich, older man. After becoming Mrs. Durst, she discovers she isn't the first Mrs. Durst. She is actually the third Mrs. Durst.
So, what happened to the first and second Mrs. Durst you ask? You will need to read the book. Will Marlena end up like the previous wives or will she fight back?
An enjoyable, fast paced thrilling read. A book of sheer suspense and pure revenge. Marlena, gets swept off her feet by a rich, older man. After becoming Mrs. Durst, she discovers she isn't the first Mrs. Durst. She is actually the third Mrs. Durst.
So, what happened to the first and second Mrs. Durst you ask? You will need to read the book. Will Marlena end up like the previous wives or will she fight back?
August 26, 2019
This book is delicious! I grabbed this book on a whim because I loved the cover and the synopsis. There were no reviews and zero buzz about it. But something about it made me throw caution to the wind and give it a go. I am so glad I did!
While this book isn’t anything ground breaking and has zero twists, it is so devious and entertaining that I finished this book in a day. It’s fast paced and thrilling ; a little bit of Behind Closed Doors meets Maestra.
Thank you to Midnight Ink for my copy of this book via NetGalley
While this book isn’t anything ground breaking and has zero twists, it is so devious and entertaining that I finished this book in a day. It’s fast paced and thrilling ; a little bit of Behind Closed Doors meets Maestra.
Thank you to Midnight Ink for my copy of this book via NetGalley
March 17, 2020
I went into this novel with an idea that it would be a light, somewhat entertaining Young Adult read, and boy was I incredibly WRONG! This was a very mature, sometimes hard to read, thriller that I will not soon forget. Where has Aguirre been in my life?! If anyone has read The Last Mrs. Parrish, written by Liv Constantine, this story will read similar, with some starkly different plot lines. I liked 'Parrish,' and I really liked this story about a young, vulnerable, somewhat naive third wife named Marlena, who is very quickly swept off her feet by an older, successful and charming Mr. Durst. This seems like a fairy tale at first, but soon becomes darker and darker, turning into a nightmare you can't seem to wake up from! I Loved it! I will caution there were some scenes that might be triggering for those sensitive to spousal abuse, rape and overall violence against women, but if you can't truck through these graphic scenes you will be rewarded by the thrilling end, which I was incredibly satisfied by. I'd recommend this to not only your hardcore thriller fans, but pretty much anyone looking for an entertaining read! I'm definitely going to look into all of Aguirre's previous and forthcoming releases!!
March 4, 2019
Unfortunately, this narrative was a struggle to get through. The storyline was scattered and the characters development felt disproportionate to the plot. It felt dark and depraved but not in that good thriller kind of way. This title would be better marketed under the erotica genre as nothing about it rang true to the mystery or thriller genre. 1 star.
Thank you to #NetGalley for this ARC of #TheThirdMrsDurst
Thank you to #NetGalley for this ARC of #TheThirdMrsDurst
August 18, 2019
“I chose the road that looked prettiest from a distance, but I didn’t know then – sometimes the horizon is bright because it’s on fire.”
Foreshadowing at its finest, yes?
So, the concept of The Third Mrs. Durst is fun, though really overdone the past few years. I've read this story many, many times. That's not to say I can't still be surprised...but this book appears to be lacking a twist, which quite defeats the purpose, in my opinion.
A cat and mouse Cinderella story gone awry, the entire novel is told from Marlena's point of view. Speaking of Marlena, she's something else...I couldn't decide if I loved or loathed her. Michael, her husband, is vile. I didn't have any trouble deciding how I felt about him.
I was fairly on-board with this book until the final 20% or so. While it offers nothing new to the genre, the relationship between the two main characters, and their antics, was intriguing. I had no issues putting this book down...it wasn't an engrossing read...but when I did pick it up, I was easily able to find my way back into Ms. Aguirre's world. My main gripe was the implausibility factor. I don't mind some suspension of belief, but when it involves police procedural or court rulings, that's where I draw the line. If an author can't craft a story without obliterating our justice system, some re-writes are probably in order. Worse, the epilogue is pretty cheesy.
Bottom line, I'd say this is worth reading if you like these types of books, just don't open the cover expecting anything remotely new or exciting.
**Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this novel.
Foreshadowing at its finest, yes?
So, the concept of The Third Mrs. Durst is fun, though really overdone the past few years. I've read this story many, many times. That's not to say I can't still be surprised...but this book appears to be lacking a twist, which quite defeats the purpose, in my opinion.
A cat and mouse Cinderella story gone awry, the entire novel is told from Marlena's point of view. Speaking of Marlena, she's something else...I couldn't decide if I loved or loathed her. Michael, her husband, is vile. I didn't have any trouble deciding how I felt about him.
I was fairly on-board with this book until the final 20% or so. While it offers nothing new to the genre, the relationship between the two main characters, and their antics, was intriguing. I had no issues putting this book down...it wasn't an engrossing read...but when I did pick it up, I was easily able to find my way back into Ms. Aguirre's world. My main gripe was the implausibility factor. I don't mind some suspension of belief, but when it involves police procedural or court rulings, that's where I draw the line. If an author can't craft a story without obliterating our justice system, some re-writes are probably in order. Worse, the epilogue is pretty cheesy.
Bottom line, I'd say this is worth reading if you like these types of books, just don't open the cover expecting anything remotely new or exciting.
**Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this novel.
August 7, 2019
The Third Mrs. Durst by Ann Aguirreis a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Midnight Ink, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Marlena Altizer left her home in Kentucky when she was 16 years old. Her mother was an addict, she never knew her father, and there were another 5 "youngers" still at home.
Finding work as a model was her salvation. Catching the eye of Michael Durst was both a dream and a nightmare. Michael quickly controlled everything, even before their marriage. To all outward appearances, Marlena lived in luxury, but she was really his prisoner. What she ate, what she wore, what she said, where she went....all of it was controlled by Michael. There were repercussions when she strayed from his script.
It soon became evident that Michael may kill her if she was no longer useful. After all, his first two wives are dead, so it may have happened before. But Marlena had a plan, had it all along, and she would use any means and anyone to make it happen.
My Opinions:
This is the first book I've read by this author. She writes Science Fiction, Fantasy, YA and Romance, but this seems to be the only psychological thriller I could find on her website. If she were to write more of this genre, I would be more than interested in reading more of her books.
The characters all had something that had me questioning their reliability/honesty, and I often wondered if each had an ulterior motive for their actions. This kept me on my toes, and really helped the suspense to build, as I was never really sure who to trust.
This was a fast, entertaining read. The writing was very clear, and the story flowed smoothly. The plot was great, and twisted a few times.
For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
July 2, 2019
Three and a half
This is by an author I used to associate primarily with sci fi so I was interested in what she would bring to this more suspense driven genre.
Mrs Durst is not at all what the world perceive her to be. She plays the innocent, manipulated pawn and in reality she’s pulling all the strings. I did have huge amounts of sympathy for her as her Svengali type husband is absolutely vile ! This isn’t a happy ever after romance she has bought into but an abusive relationship that just escalated with surprising alacrity. Yet as much as I knew her husband deserved all that was coming to him at times it was still difficult to imagine exactly how he would get ‘his’ as the author increasingly shocked this reader with time lapses . If I’m brutal I didn’t particularly even like the protagonist Marlena very much but the violence and actions in play in this book were truly offensive and definitely not acceptable so obviously I did want her to prevail. There was a point when the author fooled me and I actually thought Marlena was human and cared about someone yet I was only to realise that she was every bit as manipulative as her narcissistic, psychopath of a husband . Truly Marlena is an amoral , vengeful heroine and I’d like to say I hadn’t worked out the twist at the end but sadly the author laid out breadcrumbs that were very easy to follow. I am a little disappointed that I wasn’t surprised but frankly I’m more disappointed that I never really came to actually like Marlena. I think this book will divide opinions but I am glad that I read it even though my rating might not seem to support that.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This is by an author I used to associate primarily with sci fi so I was interested in what she would bring to this more suspense driven genre.
Mrs Durst is not at all what the world perceive her to be. She plays the innocent, manipulated pawn and in reality she’s pulling all the strings. I did have huge amounts of sympathy for her as her Svengali type husband is absolutely vile ! This isn’t a happy ever after romance she has bought into but an abusive relationship that just escalated with surprising alacrity. Yet as much as I knew her husband deserved all that was coming to him at times it was still difficult to imagine exactly how he would get ‘his’ as the author increasingly shocked this reader with time lapses . If I’m brutal I didn’t particularly even like the protagonist Marlena very much but the violence and actions in play in this book were truly offensive and definitely not acceptable so obviously I did want her to prevail. There was a point when the author fooled me and I actually thought Marlena was human and cared about someone yet I was only to realise that she was every bit as manipulative as her narcissistic, psychopath of a husband . Truly Marlena is an amoral , vengeful heroine and I’d like to say I hadn’t worked out the twist at the end but sadly the author laid out breadcrumbs that were very easy to follow. I am a little disappointed that I wasn’t surprised but frankly I’m more disappointed that I never really came to actually like Marlena. I think this book will divide opinions but I am glad that I read it even though my rating might not seem to support that.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
July 29, 2022
The Third Mrs. Durst was an interesting read. If I wasn't busy with work I would have read it in one sitting. The plot was engaging, the main character had one of my favorite motives in stories, the writing was good. Some parts of this book were really hard to read because of the violence though, so keep that in mind. I gave it 4 * because at times the stuff Michael Dirst could get away with was unbelievable to me. I highly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.
Thank you to netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2019
Ok ladies and gentlemen and lovers of thrillers around. This is a hard one to review for me as an avid thriller reader. It'll be a hit or miss amongst us lovers of the thrills and chills and all around twisty goodness we all look for in our reads in this genre. Here's the reasons why:
You need to suspend some belief and let this story just tell itself. And that is what it does. It's completely plot driven. There's very minimal, to no, character building. I found myself asking questions when it turned sideways around page 70ish. I was happy that I wasn't quite expecting that but there was the WHY. I needed a bit more background than just the *here's the reason* but at the same time, I was actually like oh, ok. I dig ya, girl. (Also, every time I see the name Marlena, I think of Days of Our Lives so it was hard to reconcile a character I wasn't given much build up on. *shrug*)
There are certainly some scenes that you're just flummoxed with.... ok, so no way THAT would happen... and no way THIS would be allowed. But hell y'all - I am actually A-OK with it - it's fiction after all and if you can't suspend belief in fiction, then where can ya? This isn't a new story really. Powerful older man takes on a younger, naive and easily manipulated girl under his wing and makes her his. Once the honeymoon period is over, true colors show and now she needs to get out. So, we've seen this before.
Listen, I don't care if I've seen the story a thousand times, if it still snares me in and keeps me from putting the book down, then I am HERE FOR IT. And that's what The Third Mrs. Durst does - it reels you in. It's a quick and easy read and one I found highly entertaining. I never found myself rooting for any of the characters and I did have questions and/or found some things questionable but at the end of the day, I WAS ENTERTAINED.
I'm torn as I suppose for content itself I may have rated this a little lower but for pure entertainment at face value, I sit happily here.
You need to suspend some belief and let this story just tell itself. And that is what it does. It's completely plot driven. There's very minimal, to no, character building. I found myself asking questions when it turned sideways around page 70ish. I was happy that I wasn't quite expecting that but there was the WHY. I needed a bit more background than just the *here's the reason* but at the same time, I was actually like oh, ok. I dig ya, girl. (Also, every time I see the name Marlena, I think of Days of Our Lives so it was hard to reconcile a character I wasn't given much build up on. *shrug*)
There are certainly some scenes that you're just flummoxed with.... ok, so no way THAT would happen... and no way THIS would be allowed. But hell y'all - I am actually A-OK with it - it's fiction after all and if you can't suspend belief in fiction, then where can ya? This isn't a new story really. Powerful older man takes on a younger, naive and easily manipulated girl under his wing and makes her his. Once the honeymoon period is over, true colors show and now she needs to get out. So, we've seen this before.
Listen, I don't care if I've seen the story a thousand times, if it still snares me in and keeps me from putting the book down, then I am HERE FOR IT. And that's what The Third Mrs. Durst does - it reels you in. It's a quick and easy read and one I found highly entertaining. I never found myself rooting for any of the characters and I did have questions and/or found some things questionable but at the end of the day, I WAS ENTERTAINED.
I'm torn as I suppose for content itself I may have rated this a little lower but for pure entertainment at face value, I sit happily here.
September 13, 2019
Marlena Altizer was born into poverty. With a mother who was a drug addict, a long gone father and many siblings, her only dream was to get out of this horrible situation and make it big. Anyway she could.
Enter Michael Durst, a handsome, wealthy, New York businessman who takes a liking to Marlena. Although she realizes he has been married twice before, and she quickly begins to understand Durst is very controlling and perhaps pathological in some ways, she feels as if she can handle him.
And at first she does, living the lifestyle of the rich and famous, attending parties, shopping, and enjoying the good life. Until she is not. And her life becomes unlivable. She begins to see a side of Durst he had kept hidden. An evil, hateful, viscous side. Marlena realizes she is more of a prisoner and a showpiece who is only there to assist Durst in his questionable business dealings. He controls what she wears, what she eats, where she goes and even what she weighs. And to add to all this stress, Marlena, who is the third Mrs. Durst discovers the previous wives died when Durst became unhappy with them, and under very suspicious circumstances.
Unfortunately it seems she is unable to break herself free from her husband's hold no matter how hard she tries. The last time almost killing her. So she decides the only way she can truly be done with him is to kill herself rather than live with him any longer.
The Third Mrs. Durst is a very dark psychological thriller with heart palpitating turns and an incredible ending to die for.
Thank you so much #NetGalley #MidnightInk #TheThirdMrs.Durst for the free advanced copy.
Merged review:
Marlena Altizer was born into poverty. With a mother who was a drug addict, a long gone father and many siblings, her only dream was to get out of this horrible situation and make it big. Anyway she could.
Enter Michael Durst, a handsome, wealthy, New York businessman who takes a liking to Marlena. Although she realizes he has been married twice before, and she quickly begins to understand Durst is very controlling and perhaps pathological in some ways, she feels as if she can handle him.
And at first she does, living the lifestyle of the rich and famous, attending parties, shopping, and enjoying the good life. Until she is not. And her life becomes unlivable. She begins to see a side of Durst he had kept hidden. An evil, hateful, viscous side. Marlena realizes she is more of a prisoner and a showpiece who is only there to assist Durst in his questionable business dealings. He controls what she wears, what she eats, where she goes and even what she weighs. And to add to all this stress, Marlena, who is the third Mrs. Durst discovers the previous wives died when Durst became unhappy with them, and under very suspicious circumstances.
Unfortunately it seems she is unable to break herself free from her husband's hold no matter how hard she tries. The last time almost killing her. So she decides the only way she can truly be done with him is to kill herself rather than live with him any longer.
The Third Mrs. Durst is a very dark psychological thriller with heart palpitating turns and an incredible ending to die for.
Thank you so much #NetGalley #MidnightInk #TheThirdMrs.Durst for the free advanced copy.
Enter Michael Durst, a handsome, wealthy, New York businessman who takes a liking to Marlena. Although she realizes he has been married twice before, and she quickly begins to understand Durst is very controlling and perhaps pathological in some ways, she feels as if she can handle him.
And at first she does, living the lifestyle of the rich and famous, attending parties, shopping, and enjoying the good life. Until she is not. And her life becomes unlivable. She begins to see a side of Durst he had kept hidden. An evil, hateful, viscous side. Marlena realizes she is more of a prisoner and a showpiece who is only there to assist Durst in his questionable business dealings. He controls what she wears, what she eats, where she goes and even what she weighs. And to add to all this stress, Marlena, who is the third Mrs. Durst discovers the previous wives died when Durst became unhappy with them, and under very suspicious circumstances.
Unfortunately it seems she is unable to break herself free from her husband's hold no matter how hard she tries. The last time almost killing her. So she decides the only way she can truly be done with him is to kill herself rather than live with him any longer.
The Third Mrs. Durst is a very dark psychological thriller with heart palpitating turns and an incredible ending to die for.
Thank you so much #NetGalley #MidnightInk #TheThirdMrs.Durst for the free advanced copy.
Merged review:
Marlena Altizer was born into poverty. With a mother who was a drug addict, a long gone father and many siblings, her only dream was to get out of this horrible situation and make it big. Anyway she could.
Enter Michael Durst, a handsome, wealthy, New York businessman who takes a liking to Marlena. Although she realizes he has been married twice before, and she quickly begins to understand Durst is very controlling and perhaps pathological in some ways, she feels as if she can handle him.
And at first she does, living the lifestyle of the rich and famous, attending parties, shopping, and enjoying the good life. Until she is not. And her life becomes unlivable. She begins to see a side of Durst he had kept hidden. An evil, hateful, viscous side. Marlena realizes she is more of a prisoner and a showpiece who is only there to assist Durst in his questionable business dealings. He controls what she wears, what she eats, where she goes and even what she weighs. And to add to all this stress, Marlena, who is the third Mrs. Durst discovers the previous wives died when Durst became unhappy with them, and under very suspicious circumstances.
Unfortunately it seems she is unable to break herself free from her husband's hold no matter how hard she tries. The last time almost killing her. So she decides the only way she can truly be done with him is to kill herself rather than live with him any longer.
The Third Mrs. Durst is a very dark psychological thriller with heart palpitating turns and an incredible ending to die for.
Thank you so much #NetGalley #MidnightInk #TheThirdMrs.Durst for the free advanced copy.
August 10, 2019
DNF at 31%
I was all in for this story. The synopsis, the cover, and the fact that it was written by Ann. I was excited for so much of this. Sadly, the content made it impossible for me to continue.
In the section that I did read, there were several mentions of rape and what stopped me from continuing was Marlena getting strapped down and whipped with a belt.
I did skip to the end of the book and read the last chapter and epilogue and I was intrigued, but I refuse to read any escalating scenes.
**Huge thanks to Midnight Ink for providing the arc free of charge**
I was all in for this story. The synopsis, the cover, and the fact that it was written by Ann. I was excited for so much of this. Sadly, the content made it impossible for me to continue.
In the section that I did read, there were several mentions of rape and what stopped me from continuing was Marlena getting strapped down and whipped with a belt.
I did skip to the end of the book and read the last chapter and epilogue and I was intrigued, but I refuse to read any escalating scenes.
**Huge thanks to Midnight Ink for providing the arc free of charge**
March 30, 2019
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Marlena grew up in a redneck backwoods country to a mother who likes to have male acquaintances and sometimes neglected her children. Her older sister Dee made it out, and now it's Marlena's turn as it's now or never. Marlena buys a bus ticket and hightails it out of the country to New York. World of opportunities. Here she meets a friend Jenny, and the two become close. At the cafe they work at, they heard of a guy who scouts for talent and models. Marlena gets herself noticed by him, and along with Jenny as they are a twofer, their lives start to change . Marlena being the more attractive finds her career soaring and fast too. This leads her to go overseas and to become a big name and to put her in the eye of Michael Durst. He is the one everyone wants, the big cheese and being with Michael for models is a dream come true. The thing though is the Cinderella fairytale life comes with a hefty price tag that no money can buy as Marlena is about to discover in the form of complete control and abuse. During the book, Marlena does research and finds that the previous two Mrs. Durst's died after a short time being married to Marlena and when it looks like someone else has Michael's interest, Marlena knows it's only a matter of time for her. With the help of Vince and Jenny and a newfound friend, Marlena will try to bring Michael down once and for all before she ends up being another casualty. I did like the twist of this book when we discovered the workings of Marlena's brain and her connection to the previous Mrs. Durst.
This was also a new step for Ann Aguirre as she is more known for her YA Dystopian books and I have to admit as a thriller/mystery fan she did an excellent job with The Third Mrs. Durst.
Marlena grew up in a redneck backwoods country to a mother who likes to have male acquaintances and sometimes neglected her children. Her older sister Dee made it out, and now it's Marlena's turn as it's now or never. Marlena buys a bus ticket and hightails it out of the country to New York. World of opportunities. Here she meets a friend Jenny, and the two become close. At the cafe they work at, they heard of a guy who scouts for talent and models. Marlena gets herself noticed by him, and along with Jenny as they are a twofer, their lives start to change . Marlena being the more attractive finds her career soaring and fast too. This leads her to go overseas and to become a big name and to put her in the eye of Michael Durst. He is the one everyone wants, the big cheese and being with Michael for models is a dream come true. The thing though is the Cinderella fairytale life comes with a hefty price tag that no money can buy as Marlena is about to discover in the form of complete control and abuse. During the book, Marlena does research and finds that the previous two Mrs. Durst's died after a short time being married to Marlena and when it looks like someone else has Michael's interest, Marlena knows it's only a matter of time for her. With the help of Vince and Jenny and a newfound friend, Marlena will try to bring Michael down once and for all before she ends up being another casualty. I did like the twist of this book when we discovered the workings of Marlena's brain and her connection to the previous Mrs. Durst.
This was also a new step for Ann Aguirre as she is more known for her YA Dystopian books and I have to admit as a thriller/mystery fan she did an excellent job with The Third Mrs. Durst.
November 21, 2019
3.5 ⭐️ Although not original or ground breaking, I had a lot of fun listening to this one! I needed a fast paced quickie after reading a few historical fiction novels and this hit the spot nicely. It’s definitely a page turner...I binged all but one hour of it in a day.
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