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The Man She Married
How well do you know your husband?
Since Alice’s fiancé walked out on her, she never thought she’d meet ‘The One’. But all that changes when she meets Dominic. Handsome, charming and kind, Alice can’t believe her luck when he proposes a few months later and moves into her West London home.
Three years on, Alice’s catering business is thriving and she is married to a man she adores. So when she sees that little blue line, it should be the happiest moment of her life: they’re going to have a baby. But then the police knock on her door and Alice’s whole world is turned upside down… Dominic is dead.
Distraught, Alice goes to identify the body. There’s no doubt that it’s her husband. Yet when his estranged brother comes to view the coffin, he insists the man lying there is not Dominic. Alice refuses to believe it at first, but when confronted with irrefutable proof, she finally has to face the truth:
The man she married is not the person he said he was. And if he lied about that, what else was he hiding from her?
Since Alice’s fiancé walked out on her, she never thought she’d meet ‘The One’. But all that changes when she meets Dominic. Handsome, charming and kind, Alice can’t believe her luck when he proposes a few months later and moves into her West London home.
Three years on, Alice’s catering business is thriving and she is married to a man she adores. So when she sees that little blue line, it should be the happiest moment of her life: they’re going to have a baby. But then the police knock on her door and Alice’s whole world is turned upside down… Dominic is dead.
Distraught, Alice goes to identify the body. There’s no doubt that it’s her husband. Yet when his estranged brother comes to view the coffin, he insists the man lying there is not Dominic. Alice refuses to believe it at first, but when confronted with irrefutable proof, she finally has to face the truth:
The man she married is not the person he said he was. And if he lied about that, what else was he hiding from her?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2020
4309 people are currently reading
4811 people want to read
About the author
Alison James
10 books348 followersI was born in the Cotswolds but spent most of my formative years abroad. I studied languages at Oxford, then became a journalist and author, returning to university after my two children to take a law degree. After a three-year stint as a criminal paralegal, I worked as a commercial copywriter and then a TV storyliner, before coming full circle to write fiction again.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 457 reviews
January 20, 2020
An okay psychological thriller that sees Alice caught up in a whirlwind romance with handsome Dominic Gill, and soon finds herself married to him, even though she felt rushed. Things are going okay, though there's a few times his behaviour has been a concern, then suddenly he's gone, killed in an accident. Alice confirms that yes, it's her husband that has died, however when Dom's estranged brother turns up to view the body, he's adamant it's not Dom. So just who has Alice been married to for the last 3 years?
I found The Man She Married to be an enjoyable, quick read, and I finished it in a day. My main concern with this book is things are revealed quickly, too early in the book, and after that it's a case of waiting for everything to come together at the end, thus taking the suspense out of it. There were some revelations later in the book however, and it's definitely one to consider reading for a rainy day.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I found The Man She Married to be an enjoyable, quick read, and I finished it in a day. My main concern with this book is things are revealed quickly, too early in the book, and after that it's a case of waiting for everything to come together at the end, thus taking the suspense out of it. There were some revelations later in the book however, and it's definitely one to consider reading for a rainy day.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2020
EXCERPT: I approach the open coffin, balanced on trestles at the centre of the silent room. Heavy velvet drapes are drawn discreetly over the window, and in the corner a lamp is lit, next to an arrangement of silk flowers on a tall stand.
As I draw closer, I glimpse the tip of his nose against the pleated white satin of the coffin lining. The sight is so odd and other-worldly, it makes my head swim and the carpeted floor feel unsteady under my feet. My heart is pounding as I get close enough to see him; all of him.
I have no idea who gave the undertaker the suit and tie he's wearing; I only know it wasn't me. I take in the curve of his mouth, the sweep of his hair from his forehead, the angles of his profile. On his left hand is a wedding ring. I remove my own wedding ring and drop it into the coffin.
The only thought in my mind is that this is like one of those riddles you find inside a Christmas cracker. Because the man lying inside my husband's coffin is not my husband. He's a total stranger.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Since Alice’s fiancé walked out on her, she never thought she’d meet ‘The One’. But all that changes when she meets Dominic. Handsome, charming and kind, Alice can’t believe her luck when he proposes a few months later and moves into her West London home.
Three years on, Alice’s catering business is thriving and she is married to a man she adores. So when she sees that little blue line, it should be the happiest moment of her life: they’re going to have a baby. But then the police knock on her door and Alice’s whole world is turned upside down… Dominic is dead.
Distraught, Alice goes to identify the body. There’s no doubt that it’s her husband. Yet when his estranged brother comes to view the coffin, he insists the man lying there is not Dominic. Alice refuses to believe it at first, but when confronted with irrefutable proof, she finally has to face the truth:
The man she married is not the person he said he was. And if he lied about that, what else was he hiding from her?
MY THOUGHTS: The Man She Married by Alison James is the second book I have read and enjoyed by this author. It is told from two perspectives - that of Alice, and that of Dominic - over two timelines, now and then. This works well and is not at all confusing. It is interesting to see how the perspectives of the same events differ.
James has portrayed her characters well. Alice is a successful businesswoman whose personal life is a disaster. She is an orphan, has been jilted almost at the altar, and just wants to be loved. Dominic is charming - good looking and charming. He is polished and plausible. He is dangerous. Very dangerous. And Alice is his perfect cover.
This is one of those books that just sneaks up on you....I was reading along, thinking 'Yeah, this is okay.' when suddenly I realized that I was totally immersed in the story, and I read the second half in one sitting.
😊😊😊😊
#TheManSheMarried #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Alison James. I was born in the Cotswolds but spent most of my formative years abroad. I studied languages at Oxford, then became a journalist and author, returning to university after my two children to take a law degree.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Man She Married by Alison James 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 Goodreads.com profile page 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/...
As I draw closer, I glimpse the tip of his nose against the pleated white satin of the coffin lining. The sight is so odd and other-worldly, it makes my head swim and the carpeted floor feel unsteady under my feet. My heart is pounding as I get close enough to see him; all of him.
I have no idea who gave the undertaker the suit and tie he's wearing; I only know it wasn't me. I take in the curve of his mouth, the sweep of his hair from his forehead, the angles of his profile. On his left hand is a wedding ring. I remove my own wedding ring and drop it into the coffin.
The only thought in my mind is that this is like one of those riddles you find inside a Christmas cracker. Because the man lying inside my husband's coffin is not my husband. He's a total stranger.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Since Alice’s fiancé walked out on her, she never thought she’d meet ‘The One’. But all that changes when she meets Dominic. Handsome, charming and kind, Alice can’t believe her luck when he proposes a few months later and moves into her West London home.
Three years on, Alice’s catering business is thriving and she is married to a man she adores. So when she sees that little blue line, it should be the happiest moment of her life: they’re going to have a baby. But then the police knock on her door and Alice’s whole world is turned upside down… Dominic is dead.
Distraught, Alice goes to identify the body. There’s no doubt that it’s her husband. Yet when his estranged brother comes to view the coffin, he insists the man lying there is not Dominic. Alice refuses to believe it at first, but when confronted with irrefutable proof, she finally has to face the truth:
The man she married is not the person he said he was. And if he lied about that, what else was he hiding from her?
MY THOUGHTS: The Man She Married by Alison James is the second book I have read and enjoyed by this author. It is told from two perspectives - that of Alice, and that of Dominic - over two timelines, now and then. This works well and is not at all confusing. It is interesting to see how the perspectives of the same events differ.
James has portrayed her characters well. Alice is a successful businesswoman whose personal life is a disaster. She is an orphan, has been jilted almost at the altar, and just wants to be loved. Dominic is charming - good looking and charming. He is polished and plausible. He is dangerous. Very dangerous. And Alice is his perfect cover.
This is one of those books that just sneaks up on you....I was reading along, thinking 'Yeah, this is okay.' when suddenly I realized that I was totally immersed in the story, and I read the second half in one sitting.
😊😊😊😊
#TheManSheMarried #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Alison James. I was born in the Cotswolds but spent most of my formative years abroad. I studied languages at Oxford, then became a journalist and author, returning to university after my two children to take a law degree.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Man She Married by Alison James 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 Goodreads.com profile page 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/...
March 2, 2020
2.5 Stars
The Man She Married was my first read by this author and unfortunately, it was a disappointment! It was very predictable. The plot wasn’t something strong or something new or unique! If you’re a Mystery/Thriller reader, I don’t think this would be a good choice for you! The pacing was slow (maybe because of the predictability of it I felt it slow-pace) and still the second half dragged a lot (considering there wasn’t really much to say at the second half because at the time the mystery was gone), at the point of 70% I started skimming. I even couldn’t like Alice, I wanted to bang my head to the wall repeatedly and shout out you really can’t see all these breadcrumbs or are you really so stupid and foolish!?! Come ON!!! She was so annoying and frustrating! Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novel. It contains short chapters and alternates between Now and Then. Overall, I can’t say if I enjoy this book but I hope you like it!
The Man She Married was my first read by this author and unfortunately, it was a disappointment! It was very predictable. The plot wasn’t something strong or something new or unique! If you’re a Mystery/Thriller reader, I don’t think this would be a good choice for you! The pacing was slow (maybe because of the predictability of it I felt it slow-pace) and still the second half dragged a lot (considering there wasn’t really much to say at the second half because at the time the mystery was gone), at the point of 70% I started skimming. I even couldn’t like Alice, I wanted to bang my head to the wall repeatedly and shout out you really can’t see all these breadcrumbs or are you really so stupid and foolish!?! Come ON!!! She was so annoying and frustrating! Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novel. It contains short chapters and alternates between Now and Then. Overall, I can’t say if I enjoy this book but I hope you like it!
January 10, 2020
Alice married Dominic after a whirlwind romance. But when tragedy befalls Alice, she soon realises she didn't really know Dominic at all.
The story is told in three parts, Alice, Dominic and the aftermath. Its narrated mostly by Alice and Dominic's point of view and told in the present and past. I was gripped by this story after reading just a few pages. Alice and Dominic seem to be living the ideal life. But a k Rock on the door soon changes that. I liked Alice's character but I also wanted to knock some sense into her. It's obvious to the reader that Dominic is too good to be true. Theres is a few twists along the way. The plotline kept my attention throughout the book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Alison James for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told in three parts, Alice, Dominic and the aftermath. Its narrated mostly by Alice and Dominic's point of view and told in the present and past. I was gripped by this story after reading just a few pages. Alice and Dominic seem to be living the ideal life. But a k Rock on the door soon changes that. I liked Alice's character but I also wanted to knock some sense into her. It's obvious to the reader that Dominic is too good to be true. Theres is a few twists along the way. The plotline kept my attention throughout the book.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Bookouture and the author Alison James for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2020
The Man She Married by Alison James is a psychological thriller that is told from two different points of view. At first the story starts with the wife then switches to the husband and finishes with the wife.
Alice met and married a man named Dominic Gill and thought they would be one of those happily ever after couples. Well, of course things rarely go as planned but despite a few red flags here and there over the course of their time together Alice thought things were OK and was ecstatic when she learned she was pregnant.
The very same night Alice thought her world was finally coming together when she learned of her pregnancy though Dominic failed to come home. Soon the bad news came, an accident out of nowhere and a body that needed identified. Alice quickly named the victim as her husband, his brother however said that is not the real Dominic Gill… so who was the man Alice married?
I have to admit that despite my own rating I could see that The Man She Married by Alison James may not be for every psychological thriller fan due to the fact that you go in knowing so much and get a lot solved early on. However, for someone like myself that reads a ton there was just something so addictive about this book that I could not put it down. It’s actual rather thought provoking when it came down to it and despite the twists being unveiled early the second half was still engaging making this one rather enjoyable to me.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Alice met and married a man named Dominic Gill and thought they would be one of those happily ever after couples. Well, of course things rarely go as planned but despite a few red flags here and there over the course of their time together Alice thought things were OK and was ecstatic when she learned she was pregnant.
The very same night Alice thought her world was finally coming together when she learned of her pregnancy though Dominic failed to come home. Soon the bad news came, an accident out of nowhere and a body that needed identified. Alice quickly named the victim as her husband, his brother however said that is not the real Dominic Gill… so who was the man Alice married?
I have to admit that despite my own rating I could see that The Man She Married by Alison James may not be for every psychological thriller fan due to the fact that you go in knowing so much and get a lot solved early on. However, for someone like myself that reads a ton there was just something so addictive about this book that I could not put it down. It’s actual rather thought provoking when it came down to it and despite the twists being unveiled early the second half was still engaging making this one rather enjoyable to me.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
December 23, 2019
This is a fine psychological thriller, all the elements we love are there and it reads well and is one of those books that builds your fury as you read and you want justice to be served
BUT I have to say it, I wonder if any of these female leads ever read?, do they not know its a massive no-no to marry someone who invites none of his family or life long friends to the wedding?? ( as readers we all know this )
That aside it really is a tale of evil for poor Alice ( who I did like even though she was very easily fooled ) who meets Dominic in a lift when it breaks down, a whirlwind romance and all the trimmings follow but there is something off.....she starts to follow him and try and work out just what is going on, but then she is shockingly called to identify his body after an accudent, its him.....but it’s not him!
The journey then eventually leads to Oz and a small but easy to like set of characters unearth just what and
who Dominic is, or isn’t, with devastating consequences as the real truth of this maniacal psychopath comes to light
Parts of the book, are quite shockingly dark and there are sections of sexual abuse as part of the story ( not a massive part but it is there )
Narrated by Alice and part by Dominic, in the style of each telling their own version of events, it really did hook me in and kept me there right until the very fast paced ending
910
5 Stars
BUT I have to say it, I wonder if any of these female leads ever read?, do they not know its a massive no-no to marry someone who invites none of his family or life long friends to the wedding?? ( as readers we all know this )
That aside it really is a tale of evil for poor Alice ( who I did like even though she was very easily fooled ) who meets Dominic in a lift when it breaks down, a whirlwind romance and all the trimmings follow but there is something off.....she starts to follow him and try and work out just what is going on, but then she is shockingly called to identify his body after an accudent, its him.....but it’s not him!
The journey then eventually leads to Oz and a small but easy to like set of characters unearth just what and
who Dominic is, or isn’t, with devastating consequences as the real truth of this maniacal psychopath comes to light
Parts of the book, are quite shockingly dark and there are sections of sexual abuse as part of the story ( not a massive part but it is there )
Narrated by Alice and part by Dominic, in the style of each telling their own version of events, it really did hook me in and kept me there right until the very fast paced ending
910
5 Stars
August 22, 2022
Heavyweight.
A few pages into The Man She Married, I envisioned the remainder as a fluffy beach read. Maybe because it started with two friends chatting about Valentine’s Day.
However, I WAS WRONG and I should've known better than to have judged so early about where the story was headed!
Without saying too much about the plot, this was an expertly told dark story. One that becomes more sinister as the pages flew by.
I think it worked better for me when I didn’t know more than the advertised premise. However, heads up for subject matter that includes rape for those triggered.
This was a first for me by this author and I’ll be sure to look for her other titles.
A few pages into The Man She Married, I envisioned the remainder as a fluffy beach read. Maybe because it started with two friends chatting about Valentine’s Day.
However, I WAS WRONG and I should've known better than to have judged so early about where the story was headed!
Without saying too much about the plot, this was an expertly told dark story. One that becomes more sinister as the pages flew by.
I think it worked better for me when I didn’t know more than the advertised premise. However, heads up for subject matter that includes rape for those triggered.
This was a first for me by this author and I’ll be sure to look for her other titles.
October 5, 2022
What happens when the man a woman marries,
isn't the man a woman married?
When police contact pregnant Alice to inform her that her husband was killed in a car accident, she is devastated.
But the real pain occurs when Alice's husband's estranged brother views the coffin and insists that the man in the coffin is not his brother.
Who was the man in the coffin?
Who did Alice really marry?
Although the book's premise was compelling, it fell flat and lacked the element of suspense and intrigue I was seeking.
I listened to the audiobook read by Jan Cramer. Although the narrator did a superb job with the narration, the book would have benefited from two narrators (female and male) since it unfolded from two POVs.
3.5 stars
isn't the man a woman married?
When police contact pregnant Alice to inform her that her husband was killed in a car accident, she is devastated.
But the real pain occurs when Alice's husband's estranged brother views the coffin and insists that the man in the coffin is not his brother.
Who was the man in the coffin?
Who did Alice really marry?
Although the book's premise was compelling, it fell flat and lacked the element of suspense and intrigue I was seeking.
I listened to the audiobook read by Jan Cramer. Although the narrator did a superb job with the narration, the book would have benefited from two narrators (female and male) since it unfolded from two POVs.
3.5 stars
December 14, 2019
Alice marries Dominick after few month whirlwind romance. Then after a couple years of marriage he dies suddenly and she finds out he’s not who he portrayed and she has no idea who her husband really is.
I liked how the book was written from the perspectives of Alice and her husband. It was enlightening to see the two views and the time hops between then and now.
Alice drove me crazy how oblivious she was and how often she excused her husband’s behavior. For the first 1/4 off the book I just see red flags popping up all over the place. It leaves you wanting to yell at the book, “Open your eyes woman!”
This book definitely had intense deception, twists and surprises. Exactly things I look for in a thriller. It was written well and I was completely engaged. There was a part of the book that was a bit too graphic and not to my personal taste which is all I’ll say so I don’t give any spoilers away. Other than that disclaimer, I found the book to be fast paced and gripping. A good detective story of putting together all the clues.
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
I liked how the book was written from the perspectives of Alice and her husband. It was enlightening to see the two views and the time hops between then and now.
Alice drove me crazy how oblivious she was and how often she excused her husband’s behavior. For the first 1/4 off the book I just see red flags popping up all over the place. It leaves you wanting to yell at the book, “Open your eyes woman!”
This book definitely had intense deception, twists and surprises. Exactly things I look for in a thriller. It was written well and I was completely engaged. There was a part of the book that was a bit too graphic and not to my personal taste which is all I’ll say so I don’t give any spoilers away. Other than that disclaimer, I found the book to be fast paced and gripping. A good detective story of putting together all the clues.
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
May 29, 2023
This was a great book written by a new-to-me author. It held my attention and the twists were jaw-dropping. I just couldn't imagine myself feeling THAT duped!
I dropped this book in the Skagway, Alaska Little Free Library.
I dropped this book in the Skagway, Alaska Little Free Library.
December 10, 2019
"Oh, what a tangled web we weave
When first we practise to deceive!"
--Sir Walter Scott
I've read, and enjoyed, two other books by this author. So when the publisher made an advance copy available for review, you bet your boots I jumped at the opportunity. And once again, I was not disappointed.
Chapters flash from "then" and "now" primarily for main character Alice, who runs her own successful catering business. Not one to trust relationships ever since a former fiance left her almost at the altar, she's a bit hesitant when she meets handsome and eligible Dominic. But not for long; early on, he convinces her of his love by proposing marriage - followed by asking to move into her beautiful home in London.
For the most part, happiness abounds for the first three years of their marriage - and Alice is overjoyed to learn she's pregnant. But just as she's planning the perfect Valentine's Day dinner to celebrate the news, she gets a knock at her door and it's not good news: Her husband has been in a terrible accident and is dead.
Alas, the news gets worse. Despite his plausible excuses, Alice has always been a little curious as to why Dominic has kept her from meeting his brother and mother. In fact, he may have had good reason. When said brother comes to identify the body, both he and Alice get the shocker of a lifetime: The body is the guy Alice married, but according to the brother, it's not the real Dominic.
Say what? At this point, "oops" is an understatement. Dominic's brother is certain it's not his brother, while Alice certainly knows it's the man she was married to for three years. So who is he, really? At this point, Alice realizes she's been living with some kind of liar - but he's also the father of her child. Now, the important thing is to determine who he really was.
In the end, the only option is to hire a private investigator - but a very busy and reluctant one at that. And it is at this point that I'll stop my review; if you want to learn more - and I hope you do - you'll just have to read it for yourself. Well done!
When first we practise to deceive!"
--Sir Walter Scott
I've read, and enjoyed, two other books by this author. So when the publisher made an advance copy available for review, you bet your boots I jumped at the opportunity. And once again, I was not disappointed.
Chapters flash from "then" and "now" primarily for main character Alice, who runs her own successful catering business. Not one to trust relationships ever since a former fiance left her almost at the altar, she's a bit hesitant when she meets handsome and eligible Dominic. But not for long; early on, he convinces her of his love by proposing marriage - followed by asking to move into her beautiful home in London.
For the most part, happiness abounds for the first three years of their marriage - and Alice is overjoyed to learn she's pregnant. But just as she's planning the perfect Valentine's Day dinner to celebrate the news, she gets a knock at her door and it's not good news: Her husband has been in a terrible accident and is dead.
Alas, the news gets worse. Despite his plausible excuses, Alice has always been a little curious as to why Dominic has kept her from meeting his brother and mother. In fact, he may have had good reason. When said brother comes to identify the body, both he and Alice get the shocker of a lifetime: The body is the guy Alice married, but according to the brother, it's not the real Dominic.
Say what? At this point, "oops" is an understatement. Dominic's brother is certain it's not his brother, while Alice certainly knows it's the man she was married to for three years. So who is he, really? At this point, Alice realizes she's been living with some kind of liar - but he's also the father of her child. Now, the important thing is to determine who he really was.
In the end, the only option is to hire a private investigator - but a very busy and reluctant one at that. And it is at this point that I'll stop my review; if you want to learn more - and I hope you do - you'll just have to read it for yourself. Well done!
November 30, 2025
Another good book by Alison James, Alice the main protagonist is put through the mill by her new husband in this one. He’s cunning a liar and devious, he has her in his grip. Highly recommend this book to thriller fans. Free on kindle app. Well worth reading.
December 26, 2019
I get excited when I see another book from Alison James comes out so, I jumped at the chance to read this. All her books are gripping psychological thrillers, and this is no exception.
Alice Palmer has a beautiful home and owns a catering company. The only downside of her life is when her fiancé walked out on her which left her devasted.
Then she meets Dominic Gill, after a three-month world wind romance, she marries him. But, from the wedding things doesn’t seem to add up. No one from Dominic’s family turn up and the work colleagues are not close friends and hardly know him. He starts to go away on long business trips which at first Alice becomes suspicious and she thinks he is having an affair but when there is an accident and Dominic ends up dead. Things start to unravel, and her husband’s life suddenly becomes clear with the help of a private detective.
This is another gripping thriller from this author. I couldn’t put this down. It also got me thinking how well we know someone and how much trust we put in others. Just one thing annoyed me a bit of the character Alice. How gullible she was? How can you live with a person if you do not trust them and then want a child with them? I was a bit miffed. But I what did like is that the author wrote the story both POV’s. So, you got a better picture of the story. Very clever by the author. I Highly recommend.
Alice Palmer has a beautiful home and owns a catering company. The only downside of her life is when her fiancé walked out on her which left her devasted.
Then she meets Dominic Gill, after a three-month world wind romance, she marries him. But, from the wedding things doesn’t seem to add up. No one from Dominic’s family turn up and the work colleagues are not close friends and hardly know him. He starts to go away on long business trips which at first Alice becomes suspicious and she thinks he is having an affair but when there is an accident and Dominic ends up dead. Things start to unravel, and her husband’s life suddenly becomes clear with the help of a private detective.
This is another gripping thriller from this author. I couldn’t put this down. It also got me thinking how well we know someone and how much trust we put in others. Just one thing annoyed me a bit of the character Alice. How gullible she was? How can you live with a person if you do not trust them and then want a child with them? I was a bit miffed. But I what did like is that the author wrote the story both POV’s. So, you got a better picture of the story. Very clever by the author. I Highly recommend.
July 4, 2020
4 star read for me overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I really enjoyed the first 2/3 of this book but found the last 1/3 a little slow going. I particularly enjoyed the chapters from Ben’s perspective - what a horrible man!! I also wanted to shake Alice at times as the signs were so clearly there that something wasn’t right with her new husband! Could she really be so naive?! Will definitely be looking out for more books by this author in the future 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2020
The day Alice discovers that she's pregnant, she sends a text to her husband. He never responds. Hours later police appear on her doorstep. Her husband was involved in a car accident and died at the scene. Her husband, Dominic, is dead.
When she's taken to the morgue to identify him, she's not the only one waiting. Her husband's brother, who she's never met, is also their. She identifies her husband, but his brother insists the man laying there is not his brother.
So who is the dead man? Who did Alice marry? What secrets was he keeping?
This psychological thriller is told in two parts .. past and present ... one part by Alice, the other by the man she married. Characters are deftly drawn and they all seem to have issues of one kind or another. There is page-turning action with twists and turns along the way.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
When she's taken to the morgue to identify him, she's not the only one waiting. Her husband's brother, who she's never met, is also their. She identifies her husband, but his brother insists the man laying there is not his brother.
So who is the dead man? Who did Alice marry? What secrets was he keeping?
This psychological thriller is told in two parts .. past and present ... one part by Alice, the other by the man she married. Characters are deftly drawn and they all seem to have issues of one kind or another. There is page-turning action with twists and turns along the way.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this psychological thriller. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 29, 2022
How well do you know your husband? I thought oh no not this old chest nut. Infidelity and the like, definitely not my type of reading matter. I am glad to say that this was so much more!!!! Hooked from the first page and read this book in one sitting. The intrigue, lies and depth he went to hide his real identity was staggering. A real page turner, a domestic noir but OMG so much more. This book is crying out to be made into a film!!!!!
March 1, 2020
WOW! This intriguing thriller is not only based on but also has us pondering the question
"Just how well do you know your husband?"
It also takes identity theft to such a frightening level that combined with everything else, makes THE MAN SHE MARRIED incredibly hard to put down.
Alice Palmer meets Dominic Gill in a lift. She's at Ellwood Archer to make arrangements for her catering company. He is there for a job interview. The first thing she notices are his eyes - warm topaz and mesmerising. But Alice is hesitant. After being jilted a week before her wedding once before, Alice never thought she would ever meet "the one". But Dominic is attractive, charismatic, kind and charming and despite all misgivings, she accepts his offer for coffee...which then turns into dinner...then dating...until he surprisingly proposes to her three months later.
Their wedding quickly follows on 1st April (I couldn't help but note the irony of the date) and, despite the absence of his family which is easily explained with his mother being ill with a heart condition while his estranged brother remains behind to care for her, Alice couldn't be happier. So what if she sees - and ignores - some serious red flags? They are happy, in love and life couldn't be better.
Even when Alice inadvertently discovers a bank statement with a mysterious reference to "Galea", even when he continues to make excuses as to why they can't meet his family, even when she catches him in a lie and he easily sways her with his charm, even when she follows him to a flat in North Acton, even when she finds a speeding ticket for somewhere he wasn't meant to be, even when their anniversary weekend turned into anything but romantic, even when he turned into someone she didn't recognise, even when she was approached by a mysterious woman with an accent who claimed to have information on who her husband really was...Dominic explained it all away and Alice dismissed any misgivings she may have momentarily had.
But now, it is Valentine's Day and Alice is preparing for a romantic evening for them both. With the fish prepared, the wine uncorked and a text from Dom to say he would be leaving the office in 30 minutes, Alice enjoyed a bath and prepared herself for her husband...and the amazing news she had for him. She was pregnant! Unable to contain her excitement, she snapped a photo of the positive test result and WhatsApp'ed it to Dom, eager for his response. But it never comes. So she calls her friend JoJo to tell her the news. Then an hour passes, two hours, three...something is wrong. She calls Dominic but there is no answer.
Furious with him for spoiling such a momentous occasion, she changes into sweat pants and is dozing when the doorbell rings. She opens the door to police and some devastating news. There's been an accident...and Dominic is dead.
Alice accompanies police to the hospital mortuary with JoJo by her side to see the man she married dead on a slab. There is no doubt it's him. With a small nod, she confirms that yes, it is her husband Dominic. Yet when his estranged brother Simon walks in, he insists "That isn't Dominic Gill. That isn't my brother."
So who was the man Alice married??
The journey then takes us to Australia where we meet a different set of characters in a different set of circumstances that become all too familiar as the deception and lies begin to unearth just what and who Dominic is, or isn't. The consequences are devastating as the truth is slowly revealed.
The man she married was not the person Alice thought he was. And if he lied about that, what else did he hide from her? And how can she find out the truth if all she has to go on is lie after lie?
I have to say, I could have shaken Alice at how completely oblivious she was to the red flags she saw - and ignored - to the many holes in Dominic's story. I could see them as plain as day and just felt like yelling at her "Open your eyes, woman!" But she accepted his plausible explanations and often excused his behaviour. But whatever his reasons, nothing prepared me for what lay beneath his lies and layers of deception.
Told from the alternating perspectives of Alice and Dominic in THEN and NOW chapters that give us, the reader, a clearer picture of things, THE MAN SHE MARRIED is a complete and complex tale filled with twist after twist along the way. Reading from Dominic's perspective gives us greater insight into his past and just who he really is. But who is he, really? Is he a conman? Is he a psychopath? But one thing is certain...despite his charm and his good looks, he is dangerous...very dangerous. And Alice is his perfect cover. This clever tale weaves together his story into Alice's and leaving behind nothing but questions.
Fast paced and gripping from the very first page, THE MAN SHE MARRIED is shockingly dark in parts with twists and the evil that one man does. I must add, that sexual assault features in a couple of small parts of the story for those that may be triggered. It is not a huge feature, but it is there.
After the author's previous thriller "The School Friend" (formerly "The Friendship Pact" ), of which I was half-hearted about, I wasn't sure what to expect from THE MAN SHE MARRIED. But this...this is a thriller on a whole other level! It is original, it is twisted but it is brilliant! Just when you think you know what's going on, something else happens to turn it all around again!
A definite recommendation for thriller fans!
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Alice Palmer meets Dominic Gill in a lift. She's at Ellwood Archer to make arrangements for her catering company. He is there for a job interview. The first thing she notices are his eyes - warm topaz and mesmerising. But Alice is hesitant. After being jilted a week before her wedding once before, Alice never thought she would ever meet "the one". But Dominic is attractive, charismatic, kind and charming and despite all misgivings, she accepts his offer for coffee...which then turns into dinner...then dating...until he surprisingly proposes to her three months later.
Their wedding quickly follows on 1st April (I couldn't help but note the irony of the date) and, despite the absence of his family which is easily explained with his mother being ill with a heart condition while his estranged brother remains behind to care for her, Alice couldn't be happier. So what if she sees - and ignores - some serious red flags? They are happy, in love and life couldn't be better.
Even when Alice inadvertently discovers a bank statement with a mysterious reference to "Galea", even when he continues to make excuses as to why they can't meet his family, even when she catches him in a lie and he easily sways her with his charm, even when she follows him to a flat in North Acton, even when she finds a speeding ticket for somewhere he wasn't meant to be, even when their anniversary weekend turned into anything but romantic, even when he turned into someone she didn't recognise, even when she was approached by a mysterious woman with an accent who claimed to have information on who her husband really was...Dominic explained it all away and Alice dismissed any misgivings she may have momentarily had.
But now, it is Valentine's Day and Alice is preparing for a romantic evening for them both. With the fish prepared, the wine uncorked and a text from Dom to say he would be leaving the office in 30 minutes, Alice enjoyed a bath and prepared herself for her husband...and the amazing news she had for him. She was pregnant! Unable to contain her excitement, she snapped a photo of the positive test result and WhatsApp'ed it to Dom, eager for his response. But it never comes. So she calls her friend JoJo to tell her the news. Then an hour passes, two hours, three...something is wrong. She calls Dominic but there is no answer.
Furious with him for spoiling such a momentous occasion, she changes into sweat pants and is dozing when the doorbell rings. She opens the door to police and some devastating news. There's been an accident...and Dominic is dead.
Alice accompanies police to the hospital mortuary with JoJo by her side to see the man she married dead on a slab. There is no doubt it's him. With a small nod, she confirms that yes, it is her husband Dominic. Yet when his estranged brother Simon walks in, he insists "That isn't Dominic Gill. That isn't my brother."
So who was the man Alice married??
The journey then takes us to Australia where we meet a different set of characters in a different set of circumstances that become all too familiar as the deception and lies begin to unearth just what and who Dominic is, or isn't. The consequences are devastating as the truth is slowly revealed.
The man she married was not the person Alice thought he was. And if he lied about that, what else did he hide from her? And how can she find out the truth if all she has to go on is lie after lie?
I have to say, I could have shaken Alice at how completely oblivious she was to the red flags she saw - and ignored - to the many holes in Dominic's story. I could see them as plain as day and just felt like yelling at her "Open your eyes, woman!" But she accepted his plausible explanations and often excused his behaviour. But whatever his reasons, nothing prepared me for what lay beneath his lies and layers of deception.
Told from the alternating perspectives of Alice and Dominic in THEN and NOW chapters that give us, the reader, a clearer picture of things, THE MAN SHE MARRIED is a complete and complex tale filled with twist after twist along the way. Reading from Dominic's perspective gives us greater insight into his past and just who he really is. But who is he, really? Is he a conman? Is he a psychopath? But one thing is certain...despite his charm and his good looks, he is dangerous...very dangerous. And Alice is his perfect cover. This clever tale weaves together his story into Alice's and leaving behind nothing but questions.
Fast paced and gripping from the very first page, THE MAN SHE MARRIED is shockingly dark in parts with twists and the evil that one man does. I must add, that sexual assault features in a couple of small parts of the story for those that may be triggered. It is not a huge feature, but it is there.
After the author's previous thriller "The School Friend" (formerly "The Friendship Pact" ), of which I was half-hearted about, I wasn't sure what to expect from THE MAN SHE MARRIED. But this...this is a thriller on a whole other level! It is original, it is twisted but it is brilliant! Just when you think you know what's going on, something else happens to turn it all around again!
A definite recommendation for thriller fans!
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
January 8, 2020
What do you call a book which is like a siren? What do you call a book where the writing holds you prisoner? What do you call a book when the evil acts makes you turn the pages faster? What do you call a book which makes you cringe and yet makes you read it? I call it – The Man She Married.
And what can I say? I loved it all. I knew marriage was about compromises, but author Alison James put her different spin to it and changed the way I looked at marriages.
Alice married Dominic. Dominic died in a car crash. His brother too came to identify the body. Alice said he is Dominic, her husband. Brother said he is not Dominic, the brother. Proof showed he is not the real Dominic, then who was he?
Having read a few books by this author, I knew I was in for a ride. The story was told in sections with dual POV. I was shown contrary reasons of the couple. There were twists and evil acts. The characters displayed all the right emotions, though I have to admit I felt like hitting Alice when she saw the obvious then turned a blind eye.
The writing was fast paced and pulled me deeper. The story had the right amount of suspense to keep me engaged throughout. Shocks didn’t bowl me over. But the human psyche written by the author sure did. Alison James could make a simple story complex and entertaining.
I liked Dominic. There was something so different in the way his dialogues and thoughts were written. His justifications were said in a matter of fact tone. Everything just happened for him. I remembered thinking – Damn he had all the luck!! I would have loved to hear his voice on Audible.
Did I not say the book loved me back? It did, it did. I was its loving prisoner. A fun read!!
And what can I say? I loved it all. I knew marriage was about compromises, but author Alison James put her different spin to it and changed the way I looked at marriages.
Alice married Dominic. Dominic died in a car crash. His brother too came to identify the body. Alice said he is Dominic, her husband. Brother said he is not Dominic, the brother. Proof showed he is not the real Dominic, then who was he?
Having read a few books by this author, I knew I was in for a ride. The story was told in sections with dual POV. I was shown contrary reasons of the couple. There were twists and evil acts. The characters displayed all the right emotions, though I have to admit I felt like hitting Alice when she saw the obvious then turned a blind eye.
The writing was fast paced and pulled me deeper. The story had the right amount of suspense to keep me engaged throughout. Shocks didn’t bowl me over. But the human psyche written by the author sure did. Alison James could make a simple story complex and entertaining.
I liked Dominic. There was something so different in the way his dialogues and thoughts were written. His justifications were said in a matter of fact tone. Everything just happened for him. I remembered thinking – Damn he had all the luck!! I would have loved to hear his voice on Audible.
Did I not say the book loved me back? It did, it did. I was its loving prisoner. A fun read!!
January 15, 2020
How can you get to the truth if all you have to go on is lie after lie?
This was a fast and entertaining domestic drama about a woman who marries a man and then comes to find that he was not at all who he said he was.
Alice Palmer meets Dominic Gill on an elevator. She's at Ellwood Archer in Silverton to make arrangements for lunches that her catering company, Comida, is planning to bid for. He's there for a job interview. Over coffee, they find mutual attraction which rapidly leads to a proposal and marriage. So what if she sees -- and ignores -- some serious red flags? Their relationship is fairly good, but Alice wants a baby and Dom won't give the go-ahead. Then comes Valentine's Day about 3 years into their marriage. Dominic is dead. The shock deepens when Dominic's estranged brother arrives to identify him. Simon says that the dead man is NOT his brother, Dominic Gill. If that's the case, then who is this man? Alice needs answers, not only for herself, but for the unborn baby she's recently learned she's carrying. NO SPOILERS.
Very fast paced with THEN and NOW chapters as well as alternating point of view narration between Alice and "Gill" that give the reader a clearer picture of their situation and his past. I enjoyed it and the twists and turns along the way. Of course the reader knows Gill is a horrible man and constantly admonishes Alice to open her eyes and see it, but she's always giving him the benefit of the doubt because she loves her husband and wants their marriage to work. I read this in a single sitting and though it is similar to other books in this genre, it was a fun couple of hours.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. 3.5 stars, rounded up.
This was a fast and entertaining domestic drama about a woman who marries a man and then comes to find that he was not at all who he said he was.
Alice Palmer meets Dominic Gill on an elevator. She's at Ellwood Archer in Silverton to make arrangements for lunches that her catering company, Comida, is planning to bid for. He's there for a job interview. Over coffee, they find mutual attraction which rapidly leads to a proposal and marriage. So what if she sees -- and ignores -- some serious red flags? Their relationship is fairly good, but Alice wants a baby and Dom won't give the go-ahead. Then comes Valentine's Day about 3 years into their marriage. Dominic is dead. The shock deepens when Dominic's estranged brother arrives to identify him. Simon says that the dead man is NOT his brother, Dominic Gill. If that's the case, then who is this man? Alice needs answers, not only for herself, but for the unborn baby she's recently learned she's carrying. NO SPOILERS.
Very fast paced with THEN and NOW chapters as well as alternating point of view narration between Alice and "Gill" that give the reader a clearer picture of their situation and his past. I enjoyed it and the twists and turns along the way. Of course the reader knows Gill is a horrible man and constantly admonishes Alice to open her eyes and see it, but she's always giving him the benefit of the doubt because she loves her husband and wants their marriage to work. I read this in a single sitting and though it is similar to other books in this genre, it was a fun couple of hours.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. 3.5 stars, rounded up.
January 16, 2020
This isn’t an easy review to write. I almost gave up on the book when I was reading the first half because it annoyed me to no end. Red flag after red flag after red flag, and yet Alice continues to ignore it. It’s not like she’s leaving it alone, she acknowledges it, questions Dom, he feeds her BS, she knows it’s BS but she eats it up anyway. I can’t understand people like this. How blind are you? Knowing that you married someone within 6-7 months of meeting them and you never met their family you still continue to be a fool? In today’s day and age I can’t imagine a smart businesswoman who is running multiple offices of her own catering service and yet is so foolish. That’s what I felt when reading Alice’s perspective. It was how the book opened so it frustrated me. When I read her husband’s narration I was more annoyed because it simply laid out his history in a matter of fact way. I understand the author wants to paint a picture but that would have been better served by shutting chapters between the husband and wife. Also the then and now subtitle for every chapter felt irrelevant because again the story wasn’t shuttling between timelines. It was a bunch of ‘Then’ chapters followed by ‘Now’ chapters. This makes me rate this book a star lower. Alice was not believable because of her naïveté and her background. Once we read the husbands side the mystery is gone. He says who he was and what he did. The next part of the book is focused on Alice’s story in the journey she takes to find out who he was.
The connection of the husband with someone else in Australia that we read about in part 3 was the only good twist at a point when I wondered what the next few pages would be filled with because everything was pretty much sorted. The plot has merit but the execution fails somehow. This could have been a far more thrilling twisty read of it was laid out correctly.
The connection of the husband with someone else in Australia that we read about in part 3 was the only good twist at a point when I wondered what the next few pages would be filled with because everything was pretty much sorted. The plot has merit but the execution fails somehow. This could have been a far more thrilling twisty read of it was laid out correctly.
June 5, 2020
Who did Alice marry? She met and fell for Dominic Gill and, before long, they were married. Having had a very bad experience with her ex before, Alice can hardly believe that she has met the love of her life. A few=- years pass and Alice is really happy, and her business is thriving. One day she thinks she may be pregnant. The excitement of that prospect is dimmed when the police arrive at her door and tell her that Dominic is dead.
Sadly, Alice must identify the body, and it is indeed Dominic. Someone else comes to view the body, and that is Dominic's brother. However, he tells Alice that this is not Dominic. The man in the coffin is not his brother.
Well, who is the man Alice has been married to for three years? Alice was blind to what was going on right in front of her and Dominic was thriving with his exploits.
The story is delivered in a fast-paced Then and Now fashion. Short chapters that kept me riveted as readers clearly see who Dominic WAS and why he is not the man Alice thought he was. Can Alice get to the bottom of things?
I won't spoil the book as to the proper identity, but suffice it to say the man is a real card. He is of the worst sort. This is a very well-written, often sneaky, psychological thriller. I was able to sit back and read this story as it evolved. I definitely would recommend this book for anyone who likes twists and turns while reading a book, as this one is certainly full of them. This is the sixth book that I have read by Alison James. When I see a book with her name on it, I grab it as soon as I can as I know I will be treated to a compelling read. as was the case with The Man She Married.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Sadly, Alice must identify the body, and it is indeed Dominic. Someone else comes to view the body, and that is Dominic's brother. However, he tells Alice that this is not Dominic. The man in the coffin is not his brother.
Well, who is the man Alice has been married to for three years? Alice was blind to what was going on right in front of her and Dominic was thriving with his exploits.
The story is delivered in a fast-paced Then and Now fashion. Short chapters that kept me riveted as readers clearly see who Dominic WAS and why he is not the man Alice thought he was. Can Alice get to the bottom of things?
I won't spoil the book as to the proper identity, but suffice it to say the man is a real card. He is of the worst sort. This is a very well-written, often sneaky, psychological thriller. I was able to sit back and read this story as it evolved. I definitely would recommend this book for anyone who likes twists and turns while reading a book, as this one is certainly full of them. This is the sixth book that I have read by Alison James. When I see a book with her name on it, I grab it as soon as I can as I know I will be treated to a compelling read. as was the case with The Man She Married.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 24, 2025
BEWARE of SPOILER
I was hoping the book wouldn’t be that bad, and truthfully, it wasn’t—just disappointing. There was no real suspense, only a thin layer of mystery, and even that barely qualified since everything was already spelled out in the summary. Alice loses her husband in an accident, only to discover that his identity was fake. None of this comes as a surprise.
The story focuses largely on Alice trying to come to terms with the truth, which quickly becomes frustrating. She comes across as painfully naïve. What bothered me most was that she seemed more afraid of being labeled a serial killer’s wife than of confronting the truth itself. When the reality was finally laid bare, she still had the nerve to lash out and accuse others of hiding it from her.
The book’s greatest failure is Alice herself. She is portrayed as someone who is constantly in need of love, as if she cannot function without it. I found myself wanting to shake her and force her to see the bigger picture. This is no longer just about her—it’s about her baby. Her decisions should have reflected that responsibility.
Instead, it’s one man after another, and she never seems to learn.
I was hoping the book wouldn’t be that bad, and truthfully, it wasn’t—just disappointing. There was no real suspense, only a thin layer of mystery, and even that barely qualified since everything was already spelled out in the summary. Alice loses her husband in an accident, only to discover that his identity was fake. None of this comes as a surprise.
The story focuses largely on Alice trying to come to terms with the truth, which quickly becomes frustrating. She comes across as painfully naïve. What bothered me most was that she seemed more afraid of being labeled a serial killer’s wife than of confronting the truth itself. When the reality was finally laid bare, she still had the nerve to lash out and accuse others of hiding it from her.
The book’s greatest failure is Alice herself. She is portrayed as someone who is constantly in need of love, as if she cannot function without it. I found myself wanting to shake her and force her to see the bigger picture. This is no longer just about her—it’s about her baby. Her decisions should have reflected that responsibility.
Instead, it’s one man after another, and she never seems to learn.
February 3, 2020
First time author for me, well written, engaging book, with enough mystery to keep you guessing, although it is not that hard to figure out. Creepy is probably a good description. Written from different times and angles but easy to follow. Alice and Dominic are great characters.
Alice is in a comfortable situation economically, due to an inheritance, she was able to buy a home and set up a business, Dominic on the other hand is very good at hiding stuff, almost right away you can see he is after a easier life due to Alice’s inheritance. Dominic is a little scary at times as the storyline goes on. This is a quick listen/read. One of thoses books that is easy to pick up and read and read and read until the end. Well done to the author.
Alice is in a comfortable situation economically, due to an inheritance, she was able to buy a home and set up a business, Dominic on the other hand is very good at hiding stuff, almost right away you can see he is after a easier life due to Alice’s inheritance. Dominic is a little scary at times as the storyline goes on. This is a quick listen/read. One of thoses books that is easy to pick up and read and read and read until the end. Well done to the author.
December 17, 2019
Alice Palmer has a beautiful home in an upscale neighborhood, her own catering business and no money worries. Alice meets a handsome successful man who, within a very short time, has moved into her home and has persuaded her to marry him. Alice is very naive and much too trusting so she fails to see all the red flags that keep popping up which makes this a book you can't put down. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC of this very exciting page-turner in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a really good psychological thriller.
December 23, 2019
Heartbreak and loneliness often make us do things we normally would not. Sometimes we end up with people we barely even know just to find some way to get over the pain.
The Man She Married is about a woman who did just that. Alice has been dumped by her fiance just before her wedding. Feeling inadequate and lonely, she meets Dominic who seems to be the answer to her prayers for a good man. After a brief romance, he proposes and shortly after they're married with him moving into her home. Three years later, she has just found out she's pregnant and is excited to tell him the good news. However, she opens the door to find policemen with the news that Dominic has been killed in a car accident. Her world is torn apart. What makes it worse, however, is when she goes to identify the body and Dominic's estranged brother appears insisting that isn't his brother in the morgue. Alice is now determined to find out who is really the father of her baby.
The first thing I noticed when I read this book was how completely oblivious Alice was to the obvious holes in Dominic's story. I understand she was hurting over her previous relationship but wow! It was completely unbelievable how dense she was.
I did like how the book jumped between the two times, then and now. It gave me an insight into exactly how Dominic was able to work the situation to suit him. For that same reason, I liked when I was able to read the book from his perspective. It answered a lot of questions I had throughout the book.
The pace throughout the story was good. I found myself interested from beginning to end and finished it quite quickly. I enjoyed this book immensely.
Violence: Some graphic scenes of murder and violence
Sexual Content: Some sexual violence which may be a trigger
Profanity: Many uses of the f-word as well as other obscenities
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Some social drinking
The Man She Married is about a woman who did just that. Alice has been dumped by her fiance just before her wedding. Feeling inadequate and lonely, she meets Dominic who seems to be the answer to her prayers for a good man. After a brief romance, he proposes and shortly after they're married with him moving into her home. Three years later, she has just found out she's pregnant and is excited to tell him the good news. However, she opens the door to find policemen with the news that Dominic has been killed in a car accident. Her world is torn apart. What makes it worse, however, is when she goes to identify the body and Dominic's estranged brother appears insisting that isn't his brother in the morgue. Alice is now determined to find out who is really the father of her baby.
The first thing I noticed when I read this book was how completely oblivious Alice was to the obvious holes in Dominic's story. I understand she was hurting over her previous relationship but wow! It was completely unbelievable how dense she was.
I did like how the book jumped between the two times, then and now. It gave me an insight into exactly how Dominic was able to work the situation to suit him. For that same reason, I liked when I was able to read the book from his perspective. It answered a lot of questions I had throughout the book.
The pace throughout the story was good. I found myself interested from beginning to end and finished it quite quickly. I enjoyed this book immensely.
Violence: Some graphic scenes of murder and violence
Sexual Content: Some sexual violence which may be a trigger
Profanity: Many uses of the f-word as well as other obscenities
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Some social drinking
January 5, 2020
This is a great read that had me hooked throughout the book.
Alice owns a lovely house, has a successful business but can’t seem to find a man to share it all with.
Then she meets Dominic and her life seems complete.
They marry very quickly but Alice couldn’t be happier.
Cracks start to appear when Alice isn’t able to meet his family and she spots him out with another woman. She’s also frightened when he suddenly rapes her one night.
This is only half the story as after Dominic is involved in an accident and she goes to identify the body, his brother states that this is not Dominic.
We then find out who he really is and what led him to make Alice part of his life, and why.
This is a gripping read that has lots of twists and turns you’ll not be expecting.
A great read that I highly recommend.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Alice owns a lovely house, has a successful business but can’t seem to find a man to share it all with.
Then she meets Dominic and her life seems complete.
They marry very quickly but Alice couldn’t be happier.
Cracks start to appear when Alice isn’t able to meet his family and she spots him out with another woman. She’s also frightened when he suddenly rapes her one night.
This is only half the story as after Dominic is involved in an accident and she goes to identify the body, his brother states that this is not Dominic.
We then find out who he really is and what led him to make Alice part of his life, and why.
This is a gripping read that has lots of twists and turns you’ll not be expecting.
A great read that I highly recommend.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 17, 2020
This is such an amazing book! I just adored it.
On the one hand, I wished I could read faster, because I wanted to get to the bottom of this story. On the other hand, I forced myself to read slower because I did not want the story to end.
In the beginning, the author gives Alice the chance to tell her side. In part 2 Dominic answers a lot of questions I had and filled the gaps. We also jump between ‘now’ and ‘then’ in order to complete the whole.
I was captivated from the start and I can only admire the author’s talent for writing this incredible good work of art.
It’s clear that love is blind. Even though you are almost convinced that someone is not truthful, you still find excuses for their behavior. Is it stupid? Yes, of course, but I think we might have all done it even if it’s only once and only for a small thing. You might also regret it afterwards, but by then it’s too late. 5 stars
Thank you, Alison James and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
On the one hand, I wished I could read faster, because I wanted to get to the bottom of this story. On the other hand, I forced myself to read slower because I did not want the story to end.
In the beginning, the author gives Alice the chance to tell her side. In part 2 Dominic answers a lot of questions I had and filled the gaps. We also jump between ‘now’ and ‘then’ in order to complete the whole.
I was captivated from the start and I can only admire the author’s talent for writing this incredible good work of art.
It’s clear that love is blind. Even though you are almost convinced that someone is not truthful, you still find excuses for their behavior. Is it stupid? Yes, of course, but I think we might have all done it even if it’s only once and only for a small thing. You might also regret it afterwards, but by then it’s too late. 5 stars
Thank you, Alison James and Bookouture
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January 18, 2020
Another 5 star read from Alison James. This was one of those books where you plan to read a couple of chapters and then realise it's 4am and you're so far into the story there's no point in stopping now. I love that this author realises that you don't need convoluted plots and 50 peripheral characters to keep the reader interested. She lets the quality of her writing speak for itself.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book
January 16, 2020
Didn't take me long to devour this book. Keeps you on your toes, twists I loved then! Worth the read.
Thanks to the publisher and net galley for an early release of this book.
Thanks to the publisher and net galley for an early release of this book.
October 7, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It was full of mysteries, and I didn’t know where it was heading. It was very satisfying! I’ll read more by this author!
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