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My Perfect Wife
I finally have everything I ever wanted. A home with floor-to-ceiling windows, a devoted husband who dazzles everyone he meets, and two angelic children I adore. But as I watch my husband chatting with the girl next door, I wonder if anyone can see the sadness in my pretty pink smile, or hear the scream behind my straight white teeth?
I know I’m crazy to think there’s a hint of desire in his eyes.
I know it's madness to see a flicker of fear in hers.
I know all this, because I’ve been wrong before.
And if I’m wrong again, he’ll try to take my children away.
The party is my last chance to prove to my husband that I’m on the mend, that I can handle something as simple as a drinks reception without snapping under the pressure. It’s all going perfectly, until I see something in the swimming pool that changes everything. But if I can’t trust myself to believe it’s real, who will?
A totally unputdownable page-turner about the darker side of love and what really goes on under the surface of perfect-looking lives. Clever and unexpected, this book will have you gripped from the very first page until the dramatic final twist. Fans of The Wife Between Us and The Mother-in-Law will be hooked.
I know I’m crazy to think there’s a hint of desire in his eyes.
I know it's madness to see a flicker of fear in hers.
I know all this, because I’ve been wrong before.
And if I’m wrong again, he’ll try to take my children away.
The party is my last chance to prove to my husband that I’m on the mend, that I can handle something as simple as a drinks reception without snapping under the pressure. It’s all going perfectly, until I see something in the swimming pool that changes everything. But if I can’t trust myself to believe it’s real, who will?
A totally unputdownable page-turner about the darker side of love and what really goes on under the surface of perfect-looking lives. Clever and unexpected, this book will have you gripped from the very first page until the dramatic final twist. Fans of The Wife Between Us and The Mother-in-Law will be hooked.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 4, 2020
2600 people are currently reading
2233 people want to read
About the author
Clare Boyd
10 books138 followersClare Boyd lives with her husband and their two daughters in Surrey, where her little green shed at the bottom of the garden provides a haven for her writing life.
Before becoming a writer, she enjoyed a career in television, as a researcher in documentaries and then as a script editor in drama at the BBC and Channel Four, where her love of storytelling took hold.
Before becoming a writer, she enjoyed a career in television, as a researcher in documentaries and then as a script editor in drama at the BBC and Channel Four, where her love of storytelling took hold.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
March 10, 2020
Well... that was nuts! I’m not even quite certain how to process it all quite yet. Clare Boyd you sure do know how to spin a wild crazy ass story. A book filled with unreliable, unlikable, unhinged characters. This book kept me on the edge as my loyalties bounced between characters. I had no idea who to trust and if I’m being honest I still don’t! Told in third person from the alternating perspectives of wife Elizabeth and girl next-door Heather. Elizabeth is living her life walking on eggshells trying to prove to her husband Lucas that she is a worthy mother and wife. Heather has returned home to help out her parents and seeing Lucas Sparks her childhood crush. What follows is a story of miss direction, miss trust, deception, manipulation, secrets, and lies.
Neither Elizabeth or Heather were tremendously likable or sympathetic characters. Elizabeth clearly has major issues in her marriage to Lucas, but is it real or is it all in her head? Is Heather a femme fatale or a naïve girl? And is Lucas really a good guy or a manipulative predator? Not to mention Heather‘s father, what is up with him? My head was spinning throughout the story I didn’t know what was what. The story kept zigging and zagging twisting and turning until it came to a satisfying conclusion.
This book in emojis 🌼 🏊♀️ 🌸 👨👩👧👦
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Neither Elizabeth or Heather were tremendously likable or sympathetic characters. Elizabeth clearly has major issues in her marriage to Lucas, but is it real or is it all in her head? Is Heather a femme fatale or a naïve girl? And is Lucas really a good guy or a manipulative predator? Not to mention Heather‘s father, what is up with him? My head was spinning throughout the story I didn’t know what was what. The story kept zigging and zagging twisting and turning until it came to a satisfying conclusion.
This book in emojis 🌼 🏊♀️ 🌸 👨👩👧👦
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
March 1, 2020
Meet Lucas and Elizabeth Huxley - they are wealthy, attractive, and have two adorable children. They have it all, or so Heather thinks. Heather is the daughter of the Huxley's gardeners and had fallen in love with Lucas when she was a teenager. She has returned home for the summer to help her parents with the garden. But as the days go by, She begins to suspect that something is not quite right with the Huxleys.
Elizabeth Huxley is a devoted wife and does everything that she can to keep her husband happy. She is working hard to make their summer party a success and is desperate to prove to Lucas that she's not sick anymore and will not snap under pressure. But everything changes when she begins to suspect that Lucas is a liar and not who he pretends to be. Lucas reassures her that she is just ill and imagining things. But Elizabeth knows what she saw, or does she? Can we trust Elizabeth, a woman who has a history of not being able to tell fact from fiction?
I enjoyed this domestic thriller by Clare Boyd. Although slow at times, it did manage to keep me guessing until the end. Told from the perspectives of Heather and Elizabeth, this story has one of my favorite thriller tropes- the unreliable narrator. Elizabeth paints herself as a victim of her controlling husband but is she really? I thought her character was well-developed and the author did a great job of making the reader question whether they should believe her or not. Heather's character fell a bit flat for me and I found it hard to connect or care about her. But I was proud of her for the decision she made in the end. This story had many twists and turns and will keep you on the edge of your seat until the reveal. The culprit was not a surprise but I thought the conclusion was satisfying. If you enjoy thrillers centered around family drama and dysfunctional families, then I definitely recommend checking out this book.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Elizabeth Huxley is a devoted wife and does everything that she can to keep her husband happy. She is working hard to make their summer party a success and is desperate to prove to Lucas that she's not sick anymore and will not snap under pressure. But everything changes when she begins to suspect that Lucas is a liar and not who he pretends to be. Lucas reassures her that she is just ill and imagining things. But Elizabeth knows what she saw, or does she? Can we trust Elizabeth, a woman who has a history of not being able to tell fact from fiction?
I enjoyed this domestic thriller by Clare Boyd. Although slow at times, it did manage to keep me guessing until the end. Told from the perspectives of Heather and Elizabeth, this story has one of my favorite thriller tropes- the unreliable narrator. Elizabeth paints herself as a victim of her controlling husband but is she really? I thought her character was well-developed and the author did a great job of making the reader question whether they should believe her or not. Heather's character fell a bit flat for me and I found it hard to connect or care about her. But I was proud of her for the decision she made in the end. This story had many twists and turns and will keep you on the edge of your seat until the reveal. The culprit was not a surprise but I thought the conclusion was satisfying. If you enjoy thrillers centered around family drama and dysfunctional families, then I definitely recommend checking out this book.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 23, 2020
My Perfect Wife by Clare Boyd is a thriller full of twists and turns. The author knows how to present a idea and keep the readers guessing. Till the very end, it is really tough to be sure who the real antagonist is. The idea that not everyone is all good, and that there is always a little bad in everyone, is presented really well. The characters are believable one moment, and I found myself doubting them the next.
The book is a slow read though. The setting of the scene itself spans around half the book, which can be a real deterrent for the impatient readers.
All in all, this book left the reader in me in a conflicting state of mind. It has a slow beginning, but once you get through it, the twists and turns are worth the while.
I'll definitely be picking up more books by Clare.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the ARC.
Verdict: One time read
The book is a slow read though. The setting of the scene itself spans around half the book, which can be a real deterrent for the impatient readers.
All in all, this book left the reader in me in a conflicting state of mind. It has a slow beginning, but once you get through it, the twists and turns are worth the while.
I'll definitely be picking up more books by Clare.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the ARC.
Verdict: One time read
March 18, 2020
I usually read a book in 2-3 days.... I started this book 2 weeks ago and I’m only 35% in..... Iva had to make myself pick it up.... maybe the good stuff happens past this point but I can’t get there. Unfortunately this is the slowest book ever and this is a DNF for me
April 5, 2022
It’s loosely based around the preparations for a party and its aftermath. The party is being hosted by handsome, charming Lucas who presents a successful persona to the outside world though in reality his finances are stretched to breaking point. Two women obsess over Lucas. Elizabeth is his beautiful wife. She’s always immaculately turned out, works hard to keep their home looking perfect and tries to please him in everything she does. Only Lucas knows of her mental health issues which she keeps hidden from the world. Elizabeth is full of insecurities and worries that Lucas may be having a fling with Agata their Polish au pair, or Heather, or maybe both.
Heather grew up next door to Lucas and returns home to help her father prepare Lucas extensive garden for the party. Although Heather is initially presented as being happily settled with her long-term boyfriend, her old attraction to Lucas soon resurfaces. Heather wonders just how secure Lucas marriage is. She’s unsure how to interpret Lucas behaviour towards her. Is he being friendly or is it something more? She shares Elizabeth’s concerns about Agata and Lucas.
As the party approaches uncertainties over Lucas intensify. Is he a good guy or is he bad? Of course, life is never that simple and Lucas is finally revealed to be both good and bad, a flawed human being just like the rest of us. Ultimately, the novel deals with the different identities we all adopt and how we attempt to see beyond the outward persona to the true character of others. The characters strive to present a good image to the outside world but some are hiding dark secrets and being downright deceptive. Heather even deceives herself, clinging to the idea that her father is loving and caring despite his physical abuse of her as a child and adult.
Heather grew up next door to Lucas and returns home to help her father prepare Lucas extensive garden for the party. Although Heather is initially presented as being happily settled with her long-term boyfriend, her old attraction to Lucas soon resurfaces. Heather wonders just how secure Lucas marriage is. She’s unsure how to interpret Lucas behaviour towards her. Is he being friendly or is it something more? She shares Elizabeth’s concerns about Agata and Lucas.
As the party approaches uncertainties over Lucas intensify. Is he a good guy or is he bad? Of course, life is never that simple and Lucas is finally revealed to be both good and bad, a flawed human being just like the rest of us. Ultimately, the novel deals with the different identities we all adopt and how we attempt to see beyond the outward persona to the true character of others. The characters strive to present a good image to the outside world but some are hiding dark secrets and being downright deceptive. Heather even deceives herself, clinging to the idea that her father is loving and caring despite his physical abuse of her as a child and adult.
February 18, 2020
This was one crazy ass book. Imagine the contents of a dark witch's cauldron with everything evil put in it, and just a dash of goodness, and you'd get this swirling tale where nothing was real, but nothing was imaginary too. Everything lay in the twilight zone, and I sincerely couldn't believe my eyes at what I was reading. Clare Boyd is one crazy ass chick!! All complimentary!! Writing this review while thrown on my ass by the twists in the story which had me still wondering - what had I just read?
Three main characters Elizabeth, Lucas, Heather, two were married and the third was the help. Many side characters a Polish couple and Heather's parents. They were all stuck in a strange dance in the flowing mist where the steps were known only to them and to the author. I could just part my way through them and get a glimpse of what was happening in their lives.
Told primarily from the wife Elizabeth's POV, whereby she spoke of many things, false and real, this book rocked the roots of my storytelling foundation. I had this weird feeling in my stomach even minutes after reading the book. Clare Boyd sure made my insides roil with doubt about all the characters as I read down the pages.
Each character presented me with many statements which had me trusting them one moment, then disbelieving all that I read the other. Everything the author wrote was like the wood smoke; they burned my eyes yet gave me clarity. Until the last line of the book, I genuinely didn't know who was telling me the truth.
With the last line, everything else fell wayward, and I could take a deep breath to cleanse the air of doubts within me and write this review. You have to read it to believe this author's tale. Wow!!
Three main characters Elizabeth, Lucas, Heather, two were married and the third was the help. Many side characters a Polish couple and Heather's parents. They were all stuck in a strange dance in the flowing mist where the steps were known only to them and to the author. I could just part my way through them and get a glimpse of what was happening in their lives.
Told primarily from the wife Elizabeth's POV, whereby she spoke of many things, false and real, this book rocked the roots of my storytelling foundation. I had this weird feeling in my stomach even minutes after reading the book. Clare Boyd sure made my insides roil with doubt about all the characters as I read down the pages.
Each character presented me with many statements which had me trusting them one moment, then disbelieving all that I read the other. Everything the author wrote was like the wood smoke; they burned my eyes yet gave me clarity. Until the last line of the book, I genuinely didn't know who was telling me the truth.
With the last line, everything else fell wayward, and I could take a deep breath to cleanse the air of doubts within me and write this review. You have to read it to believe this author's tale. Wow!!
March 14, 2022
1.5-2. This was not the book for me! I’m actually surprised at some of the reviews/ratings on good reads!
There was not much I liked about this story. It was a SLOW and CONFUSING start. I honestly thought I was reading the wrong book at first because the title and synopsis didn’t mesh with the story line. I didn’t fully understand who the characters were until about a quarter of the way through and I was not invested in the story line until more than half way through.
I did not like ANY of the characters (with a small exception for Agata and Piotr). Heather was incredibly annoying to me, Elizabeth was too hot/cold, Lucas was a horrible man, as were Heathers mother and father, in my opinion. Jude had too small of a role and I wanted more of him!
A few of the reviews said there were twists/turns that they didn’t expect, but I honestly don’t even think this book had any twists. They portrayed Lucas exactly how he was from the start and I never doubted the type of man he was, I didn’t think Heather would actually end up with him and I do think Elizabeth had mental health issues even though she might not have been exactly what Lucas portrayed her as.
I’m honestly not even sure what this story was about, how it all ended (it left a lot of loose ends) and if it’s in your to be read list I would remove it 😁.
There was not much I liked about this story. It was a SLOW and CONFUSING start. I honestly thought I was reading the wrong book at first because the title and synopsis didn’t mesh with the story line. I didn’t fully understand who the characters were until about a quarter of the way through and I was not invested in the story line until more than half way through.
I did not like ANY of the characters (with a small exception for Agata and Piotr). Heather was incredibly annoying to me, Elizabeth was too hot/cold, Lucas was a horrible man, as were Heathers mother and father, in my opinion. Jude had too small of a role and I wanted more of him!
A few of the reviews said there were twists/turns that they didn’t expect, but I honestly don’t even think this book had any twists. They portrayed Lucas exactly how he was from the start and I never doubted the type of man he was, I didn’t think Heather would actually end up with him and I do think Elizabeth had mental health issues even though she might not have been exactly what Lucas portrayed her as.
I’m honestly not even sure what this story was about, how it all ended (it left a lot of loose ends) and if it’s in your to be read list I would remove it 😁.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2020
I found this book extremely boring. I think it was the plot. I didnt like the pompous attitude of the "rich" characters. Out of the whole character list I only connected with one and that was Heather. I really struggled reading this book and couldnt wait till it was finished. There was no thrill in this book for me whatsoever. I was still confused at the end of what actually happened and who really was the evil one.
April 1, 2022
What. Did. I. Just. Read. .. I literally could not tell you. What was the point? Who was speaking? Why did all the characters suck? If I could give it a negative rating, I would.
March 2, 2020
I'm going to step away a bit from my usual review style as starting by giving my own synopsis of the plot would actually be a disservice as it's much too complicated to reduce to a paragraph. Simply pick this one up and read what is essentially a slow simmer tale of domestic suspense that builds tension with every chapter. I thought I had this pretty much all figured out after the first couple of chapters. In a way I did -- but the way this author breaks it all out is quite masterful.
The characters -- well, I'm not going to lie -- I didn't care for any of them really. Emotional, unstable, indecisive, trusting, naive, willful, obstinate, weak, and strong. Definitely unreliable narrators who alternate chapters telling their version of the story and the reader is unable to figure out whose is accurate. Lots of secrets and lying going on of course as usual in psychological thrillers and both Heather Shaw and Elizabeth Huxley are complex packages of longing and desire. Whose version of Lucas Huxley bears out after all? NO SPOILERS.
Did I mention that it's a slow burner? That bears repeating because it seemed to take forever to get to the rising action with lots of what appeared to be irrelevant detail and description. But, hang in there as the last third of the book brings all the drama to the forefront and it's quite hard to guess what will happen next. I found it all quite satisfying and read it all in basically a single sitting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend.
The characters -- well, I'm not going to lie -- I didn't care for any of them really. Emotional, unstable, indecisive, trusting, naive, willful, obstinate, weak, and strong. Definitely unreliable narrators who alternate chapters telling their version of the story and the reader is unable to figure out whose is accurate. Lots of secrets and lying going on of course as usual in psychological thrillers and both Heather Shaw and Elizabeth Huxley are complex packages of longing and desire. Whose version of Lucas Huxley bears out after all? NO SPOILERS.
Did I mention that it's a slow burner? That bears repeating because it seemed to take forever to get to the rising action with lots of what appeared to be irrelevant detail and description. But, hang in there as the last third of the book brings all the drama to the forefront and it's quite hard to guess what will happen next. I found it all quite satisfying and read it all in basically a single sitting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend.
March 2, 2020
3.5 stars
This is a good thriller that kept me guessing until the end.
It’s a bit of a slow burner as at least half the book is scene setting. I would have liked more happening during the first half of the book as it all seemed to develop in the second half of the book.
Heather is asked to help her Dad with the gardening at their neighbour’s home when her Mum is called away to help a sick relative.
Elizabeth and Lucas lead a complicated life and with Heather and her Dad working there each day it soon comes to light that Heather and Lucas have a past together.
Elizabeth is made to feel inadequate by Lucas but how much of what he says about her is the truth?
Another good read from Claire Boyd.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a good thriller that kept me guessing until the end.
It’s a bit of a slow burner as at least half the book is scene setting. I would have liked more happening during the first half of the book as it all seemed to develop in the second half of the book.
Heather is asked to help her Dad with the gardening at their neighbour’s home when her Mum is called away to help a sick relative.
Elizabeth and Lucas lead a complicated life and with Heather and her Dad working there each day it soon comes to light that Heather and Lucas have a past together.
Elizabeth is made to feel inadequate by Lucas but how much of what he says about her is the truth?
Another good read from Claire Boyd.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
March 4, 2020
This is my first novel by bestseller author
Clare Boyd,
though I have had all three of her previous books on my e-reader for some time. I have to say I was completely and thoroughly hooked by
My Perfect Wife
right from the start.
Elizabeth is married to Lucas Huxley and they appear to the the proverbial perfect couple; they have a lovely home, two wonderful children, as well as housekeeping and gardening help. Heather Shaw is the gardener's daughter and the Huxley's help. The chapters alternate between Elizabeth's and Heather's perspectives and as the novel progresses, the inequalities of wealth and entitlement contrasting with poverty and lack of privilege gradually emerge, as things begin to fall apart at the seams.
The characters were at best unappealing, and in some cases, downright obnoxious, though this complemented the story and was probably intentional. Highly emotional, unstable, wilful, highly-strung, obstinate, and definitely unreliable, were some of narrators' personality traits, leaving me unable to decipher whose version of events à propos Lucas Huxley was most accurate. With the inevitable abundance of lies and secrets that befit a high calibre psychological thriller such as this one, I was gripped by this slow simmering tale of domestic suspense and the darker side of love until the dramatic final twist.
Clare Boyd's writing-style was impressive and noteworthy. With its polished pacing and plotting, I found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable novel. Evidently the author is a gifted storyteller who can provide readers with thrills, sophistication and a story packed with substance. A very highly recommended five star read and an exciting story that will be of interest to many readers.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my request, from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
Elizabeth is married to Lucas Huxley and they appear to the the proverbial perfect couple; they have a lovely home, two wonderful children, as well as housekeeping and gardening help. Heather Shaw is the gardener's daughter and the Huxley's help. The chapters alternate between Elizabeth's and Heather's perspectives and as the novel progresses, the inequalities of wealth and entitlement contrasting with poverty and lack of privilege gradually emerge, as things begin to fall apart at the seams.
The characters were at best unappealing, and in some cases, downright obnoxious, though this complemented the story and was probably intentional. Highly emotional, unstable, wilful, highly-strung, obstinate, and definitely unreliable, were some of narrators' personality traits, leaving me unable to decipher whose version of events à propos Lucas Huxley was most accurate. With the inevitable abundance of lies and secrets that befit a high calibre psychological thriller such as this one, I was gripped by this slow simmering tale of domestic suspense and the darker side of love until the dramatic final twist.
Clare Boyd's writing-style was impressive and noteworthy. With its polished pacing and plotting, I found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable novel. Evidently the author is a gifted storyteller who can provide readers with thrills, sophistication and a story packed with substance. A very highly recommended five star read and an exciting story that will be of interest to many readers.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my request, from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 23, 2020
I am still not sure what to think about this book. It has left me with quite conflicted feelings. I enjoyed it but also felt a bit disappointed too.
It is a domestic thriller about a well off married couple called Elizabeth and Lucas Huxley who have in their employment, staff for the maintenance of their designer house and grounds and also for help to look after their two children. Their life appears to be picture perfect, but is it? Elizabeth has a history of mental illness and worries her husband will take her children away from her. The book is written in her POV as well as Heather’s.
Heather is the daughter of the Huxleys’ gardeners and she has history with Lucas. She returns temporarily to help her parents with their work.
Eventually a story comes together based on lies, secrets and betrayal and you try to work out who is telling the truth.
The book was very well written and so detailed that you could picture the house and its garden so clearly in your mind. It also had brilliant character development and there were many times towards the end when you keep changing your mind as to who the person is lying. I found however, a lot did not really happen until about 70%-80% in. Previously to that point I kept losing interest at times.
Overall it was just an ok read for me but I do think this will appeal to lots of readers who may appreciate it more than I did. I think I just need to read more gritty domestic thrillers than the likes of this one maybe.
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for letting me read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It is a domestic thriller about a well off married couple called Elizabeth and Lucas Huxley who have in their employment, staff for the maintenance of their designer house and grounds and also for help to look after their two children. Their life appears to be picture perfect, but is it? Elizabeth has a history of mental illness and worries her husband will take her children away from her. The book is written in her POV as well as Heather’s.
Heather is the daughter of the Huxleys’ gardeners and she has history with Lucas. She returns temporarily to help her parents with their work.
Eventually a story comes together based on lies, secrets and betrayal and you try to work out who is telling the truth.
The book was very well written and so detailed that you could picture the house and its garden so clearly in your mind. It also had brilliant character development and there were many times towards the end when you keep changing your mind as to who the person is lying. I found however, a lot did not really happen until about 70%-80% in. Previously to that point I kept losing interest at times.
Overall it was just an ok read for me but I do think this will appeal to lots of readers who may appreciate it more than I did. I think I just need to read more gritty domestic thrillers than the likes of this one maybe.
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for letting me read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2022
Yet again, my book club has selected a book that WAS NOT in line with the synopsis. Yes there was a party, yes the wife was seemingly together, but the party was over by the halfway point in the book. This book has so much more to do with the gardeners and swimming. Honestly, I was confused and on character overload until halfway through the book.
I also think that listening to this was not a good ideal because the female is the same and she was supposed to be both heather and Elizabeth. So it was really tough for me to even tell there were 2 different story lines.
I’m happy with the decision at the end and I did get interested in the story but it was 2/3 of the way through the book. I was torn between characters and doubting them between chapters. That had me bought in. Otherwise, super confusing plot that really didn’t pull me in. Lucas is also a POS. I didn’t like many of the characters but he was the absolute worst so I’m glad he got what he had coming.
I also think that listening to this was not a good ideal because the female is the same and she was supposed to be both heather and Elizabeth. So it was really tough for me to even tell there were 2 different story lines.
I’m happy with the decision at the end and I did get interested in the story but it was 2/3 of the way through the book. I was torn between characters and doubting them between chapters. That had me bought in. Otherwise, super confusing plot that really didn’t pull me in. Lucas is also a POS. I didn’t like many of the characters but he was the absolute worst so I’m glad he got what he had coming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2020
wow, this was unputtdownable! There was deceit, paranoia, toxic relationships, lies and a twist! Highly recommend. Not only was the plot delicious but the writing was so detailed that I could picture the house and the pool perfectly.
Thank you Netgalley, the author and the publisher - Bookcouture - for my free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 stars!
Thank you Netgalley, the author and the publisher - Bookcouture - for my free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 stars!
March 4, 2020
Um, what a book.
This is a rare occasion when I feel I need to write a review while it's fresh in my mind, otherwise this is going to be pushed out of my mind by other books.
I've learned that when I want to start a book off with the cons, but didn't actually hate the book, I should give it 2.5 stars - it was good. I don't regret reading it but also probably won't be recommending it to anyone.
So here are my cons: it took me a while to get into the book. Within the first quarter of the book, I had checked the synopsis a handful of times because I could've sworn the book I was reading wasn't the same one. I also don't think the synopsis is fitting. It covers the book okay, but it's a different tone than the book.
Here are the pros: There was great character development. Heather seemed down to earth and was truly trying to better her life. There were times I found myself thinking that Elizabeth had grown as a character as well. This book also gave you feelings. Mostly anger, but I've come to respect books that get me invested in the characters. Another pro is that I truly didn't know where this book was going. I was constantly going back and forth on who to believe - Heather, Elizabeth, or Lucas and just when I thought I knew, I was wrong.
I actually think I've figured out why the synopsis bugs me - it's written in first person. You're made to believe that the book will be told through Elizabeth, but it's not. It's written in third person and the chapters switch off between Elizabeth, "the perfect wife," and Heather, the girl next door. The book also starts off on Heather, not Elizabeth, which is honestly probably the biggest reason why I was thrown off. And the whole 'I was wrong before and if I'm wrong again my kids will be taken away' is not really true. This is a very mental health heavy book and it should be something more like 'I've been unwell and if I'm wrong, my kids will be taken away.' Also, I thought there would be an emphasis on the house, but it's more actually on the pool - I felt like the entire book happened around the pool.
Here is the synopsis I'd give this book:
From the outside, Elizabeth looks like she has the perfect life - a devoted husband who dazzles everyone, two children she adores, and a beautiful house overlooking their garden and pool. But
Elizabeth begins to notice that everything isn't what it seems.
The success of the summer party is her last chance to prove to her husband that she's on the mend. But she can't help but notice a hint of desire in her husband's eye when Heather, the girl next door, returns home to help her father. And is what she saw in the pool a delusion? She can't be wrong about this, otherwise she may lose her kids.
This is a rare occasion when I feel I need to write a review while it's fresh in my mind, otherwise this is going to be pushed out of my mind by other books.
I've learned that when I want to start a book off with the cons, but didn't actually hate the book, I should give it 2.5 stars - it was good. I don't regret reading it but also probably won't be recommending it to anyone.
So here are my cons: it took me a while to get into the book. Within the first quarter of the book, I had checked the synopsis a handful of times because I could've sworn the book I was reading wasn't the same one. I also don't think the synopsis is fitting. It covers the book okay, but it's a different tone than the book.
Here are the pros: There was great character development. Heather seemed down to earth and was truly trying to better her life. There were times I found myself thinking that Elizabeth had grown as a character as well. This book also gave you feelings. Mostly anger, but I've come to respect books that get me invested in the characters. Another pro is that I truly didn't know where this book was going. I was constantly going back and forth on who to believe - Heather, Elizabeth, or Lucas and just when I thought I knew, I was wrong.
I actually think I've figured out why the synopsis bugs me - it's written in first person. You're made to believe that the book will be told through Elizabeth, but it's not. It's written in third person and the chapters switch off between Elizabeth, "the perfect wife," and Heather, the girl next door. The book also starts off on Heather, not Elizabeth, which is honestly probably the biggest reason why I was thrown off. And the whole 'I was wrong before and if I'm wrong again my kids will be taken away' is not really true. This is a very mental health heavy book and it should be something more like 'I've been unwell and if I'm wrong, my kids will be taken away.' Also, I thought there would be an emphasis on the house, but it's more actually on the pool - I felt like the entire book happened around the pool.
Here is the synopsis I'd give this book:
From the outside, Elizabeth looks like she has the perfect life - a devoted husband who dazzles everyone, two children she adores, and a beautiful house overlooking their garden and pool. But
Elizabeth begins to notice that everything isn't what it seems.
The success of the summer party is her last chance to prove to her husband that she's on the mend. But she can't help but notice a hint of desire in her husband's eye when Heather, the girl next door, returns home to help her father. And is what she saw in the pool a delusion? She can't be wrong about this, otherwise she may lose her kids.
April 9, 2020
Not what was claimed
I probably have read close to 1000 “psychological thrillers” and this was not that. This didn’t make me bite my nails in anticipation of the twists and turns that I could sense were just a few pages away. I didn’t catch myself thinking about the characters, plot or possible ending throughout the day as I usually do when I am in the throes of a great book. And, I didn’t have any desire to seek other books written by this author ,which I always do at the conclusion of a great read. This truly felt as if it was based on a reality show with a dash of drama. I read because I prefer it over what can be found on a television.
I probably have read close to 1000 “psychological thrillers” and this was not that. This didn’t make me bite my nails in anticipation of the twists and turns that I could sense were just a few pages away. I didn’t catch myself thinking about the characters, plot or possible ending throughout the day as I usually do when I am in the throes of a great book. And, I didn’t have any desire to seek other books written by this author ,which I always do at the conclusion of a great read. This truly felt as if it was based on a reality show with a dash of drama. I read because I prefer it over what can be found on a television.
February 22, 2020
Just an ok read for me. Couldn't keep my attention. Had to make myself pick it up. I usually like this author fell a little short for me.
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.
March 5, 2020
I don't know how I feel about this book. On the one hand, it was an easy read with interesting characters. On the other hand I found it kind of predictable and the ending was super convoluted and confusing. Was anybody in this book a good person? I have no idea. Three stars.
March 5, 2020
I'm not going to tell you anything specific about this book because it could easily be a spoiler. As this is a psychological thriller, the main question is who do you trust, and while the plot had a slow start, after about 20% in the mind games kept me guessing and switching sides till the very end. The truth turned out to be more complicated than you would think.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a quick suspenseful domestic thriller!
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for this eARC!
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a quick suspenseful domestic thriller!
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for this eARC!
July 7, 2020
Five star rollercoaster cray!
May 4, 2020
Gripping, a page turner!
The perfect balance of suspense & intrigue! I couldn’t put this novel down- I’ll definitely be binge reading this author’s other works!
The perfect balance of suspense & intrigue! I couldn’t put this novel down- I’ll definitely be binge reading this author’s other works!
April 22, 2020
i loathed this power tussle between me and my father: his ruthlessness, his sporadic violence, that old-fashioned side of him that believed in a short, sharp shock of pain to knock some sense into me, to keep me in line.
i would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for an arc, and i would also like to thank our sponsor for this read, covid-19, for providing the necessary conditions for me to read this book. after all, only a quarantine would give me no possible excuse not to finish this, but, boy, is this a slow read. and, when it comes to books, what's worse than a slow thriller? not much.
so, it's been a couple days since i've finished this book and while i don't think i've landed on how i feel about it exactly, the emotion that comes quickest to mind, when i think about this book, is disappointment.
don't get me wrong: it's still a thriller in the way that it constant flips around on itself, leaving you unsure about what to believe and full of twists. in that regard, my sincerest congratulations to boyd because i was left guessing until the very end.
however, and as well as this was executed, it is still no excuse for how unbelievably slow this book was.
overall, i just can't get over the fact that i was having to make myself pick this up and read it. and that's just not how i want to feel about reading any book.
i would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for an arc, and i would also like to thank our sponsor for this read, covid-19, for providing the necessary conditions for me to read this book. after all, only a quarantine would give me no possible excuse not to finish this, but, boy, is this a slow read. and, when it comes to books, what's worse than a slow thriller? not much.
so, it's been a couple days since i've finished this book and while i don't think i've landed on how i feel about it exactly, the emotion that comes quickest to mind, when i think about this book, is disappointment.
don't get me wrong: it's still a thriller in the way that it constant flips around on itself, leaving you unsure about what to believe and full of twists. in that regard, my sincerest congratulations to boyd because i was left guessing until the very end.
however, and as well as this was executed, it is still no excuse for how unbelievably slow this book was.
overall, i just can't get over the fact that i was having to make myself pick this up and read it. and that's just not how i want to feel about reading any book.
February 27, 2020
Elizabeth Huxley has the perfect life. The perfect husband, the perfect kids and the perfect home set in the perfect scenery. Sure she's had few problems keeping it together in the past, but that's all done with now and all she has to do is prove it to everyone.
Elizabeth's husband Lucas has it pretty good too. A beautiful wife who's only tried to kill herself in front of the children once, a careful balance of financial chicanery which wholly depend on getting that one key signature and a couple lovers (victims?) to juggle.
Thrown into this picture of marital bliss is Heather, former lover of Lucas and daughter of the Huxley's gardeners. Heather's own life is a bit of a jumble including a fiancé she's not sure she wants to marry and a father who may be mixed up in some shady dealings.
Y'all this crazy cast of characters kept me confused the entire book! Is Elizabeth crazy or is Lucas evil. And will Heather ever get her head out of her butt and lose the losers? Listen, I got to the end of the book and I still couldn't tell ya! All I know is that I was glad to get out of the madhouse.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Elizabeth's husband Lucas has it pretty good too. A beautiful wife who's only tried to kill herself in front of the children once, a careful balance of financial chicanery which wholly depend on getting that one key signature and a couple lovers (victims?) to juggle.
Thrown into this picture of marital bliss is Heather, former lover of Lucas and daughter of the Huxley's gardeners. Heather's own life is a bit of a jumble including a fiancé she's not sure she wants to marry and a father who may be mixed up in some shady dealings.
Y'all this crazy cast of characters kept me confused the entire book! Is Elizabeth crazy or is Lucas evil. And will Heather ever get her head out of her butt and lose the losers? Listen, I got to the end of the book and I still couldn't tell ya! All I know is that I was glad to get out of the madhouse.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 7, 2021
Boom Review: My Perfect Wife by Clare Boyd ⭐️
I very rarely give one star reviews, but I was very underwhelmed with this book. I have a thing about finishing books I’ve started, but this one was hard to get through. It is advertised as a thriller book, but reads more like a twisted romance book. Everything was predictable from the start. I was excited to read this one based on the reviews on goodreads, but was not impressed at all...
#bookreview #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookaddict #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #bookishbounds #myperfectwife #clareboyd #bookreader #booklover #booknerd #bookreviewer #currentlyreading #readingtime #readersofinsta #goodreads #goodreadschallenge2021 #bookshelf #booksbooksbooks #kindlereads #bibliophile #bookstagramcommunity
I very rarely give one star reviews, but I was very underwhelmed with this book. I have a thing about finishing books I’ve started, but this one was hard to get through. It is advertised as a thriller book, but reads more like a twisted romance book. Everything was predictable from the start. I was excited to read this one based on the reviews on goodreads, but was not impressed at all...
#bookreview #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookaddict #booksofinstagram #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #bookishbounds #myperfectwife #clareboyd #bookreader #booklover #booknerd #bookreviewer #currentlyreading #readingtime #readersofinsta #goodreads #goodreadschallenge2021 #bookshelf #booksbooksbooks #kindlereads #bibliophile #bookstagramcommunity
July 17, 2020
I don’t know how to feel about this book. It took me a long time to get into it. And at then end, not sure it was worth it.
March 29, 2022
I trudged through 20% of this train wreck and still didn’t know what the book was about. run far far away from this book
March 5, 2020
I got a free advance reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. Thanks NetGalley and Bookouture!
Many times the less fortunate look at the lives of the wealthy with envy. I remember the saying “not all that glitters is gold.” My Perfect Wife by Clare Boyd is a perfect embodiment of that saying.
Elizabeth is married to Lucas Huxley and leads a seemingly charmed life. They have a beautiful house with an even more beautiful garden cared for by horticulturist couple, Gordon and Sally. Sally has been called away unexpectedly to care for her ailing sister. Her replacement while gone is their daughter, Heather. Heather and Lucas have a history. Elizabeth is responsible for planning a party to woo a potential investor for Lucas’ company. A lot rides on that investment. If Elizabeth does well, Lucas would not send their daughter, Isla, to boarding school because it will mean her mental health has improved. While Heather is jealous of the life Elizabeth leads, I soon realized the relationship was not as perfect as it seemed to be.
The story was written from two perspectives, Elizabeth and Heather. I found Elizabeth’s own was more fascinating than Heather’s. This may have been because she was actually involved in the events which took part in the household. Heather was basically an outsider looking in.
I found Lucas to be so charming. He had a way of twisting everything to look like he was the hero in every situation, something which must have been extremely frustrating for Elizabeth. No matter what, Heather believed he was perfect and could do no wrong.
I felt the most pity for Agata, the children’s au pair, and her boyfriend, Poitr, the handyman of the house at the end, particularly Agata. They dealt with a lot in a strange country.
This book was full of twists. I found myself doubting what I thought was true many times during the book. Most times, just as I settled on what I thought was happening, a piece of evidence appeared which made me doubt myself. I rather enjoyed this book and my only complaint is I would have loved to get a little more information about what happened to the characters after the story ended.
Suitable audience: This is a book which should be read by adults who like domestic thrillers. This is not suitable for young readers because there is mention of sexual violence.
Recurrent themes: Gaslighting. Narcissism. Mental illness. Financial abuse. Physical abuse.
Violence: An attempted suicide is mentioned. Physical abuse happens in some places throughout the book.
Sexual Content: Sexual violence is mentioned within this book
Profanity:
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Alcohol is drank a lot by some of the characters. Weed as well as prescription medicine is used as well.
Many times the less fortunate look at the lives of the wealthy with envy. I remember the saying “not all that glitters is gold.” My Perfect Wife by Clare Boyd is a perfect embodiment of that saying.
Elizabeth is married to Lucas Huxley and leads a seemingly charmed life. They have a beautiful house with an even more beautiful garden cared for by horticulturist couple, Gordon and Sally. Sally has been called away unexpectedly to care for her ailing sister. Her replacement while gone is their daughter, Heather. Heather and Lucas have a history. Elizabeth is responsible for planning a party to woo a potential investor for Lucas’ company. A lot rides on that investment. If Elizabeth does well, Lucas would not send their daughter, Isla, to boarding school because it will mean her mental health has improved. While Heather is jealous of the life Elizabeth leads, I soon realized the relationship was not as perfect as it seemed to be.
The story was written from two perspectives, Elizabeth and Heather. I found Elizabeth’s own was more fascinating than Heather’s. This may have been because she was actually involved in the events which took part in the household. Heather was basically an outsider looking in.
I found Lucas to be so charming. He had a way of twisting everything to look like he was the hero in every situation, something which must have been extremely frustrating for Elizabeth. No matter what, Heather believed he was perfect and could do no wrong.
I felt the most pity for Agata, the children’s au pair, and her boyfriend, Poitr, the handyman of the house at the end, particularly Agata. They dealt with a lot in a strange country.
This book was full of twists. I found myself doubting what I thought was true many times during the book. Most times, just as I settled on what I thought was happening, a piece of evidence appeared which made me doubt myself. I rather enjoyed this book and my only complaint is I would have loved to get a little more information about what happened to the characters after the story ended.
Suitable audience: This is a book which should be read by adults who like domestic thrillers. This is not suitable for young readers because there is mention of sexual violence.
Recurrent themes: Gaslighting. Narcissism. Mental illness. Financial abuse. Physical abuse.
Violence: An attempted suicide is mentioned. Physical abuse happens in some places throughout the book.
Sexual Content: Sexual violence is mentioned within this book
Profanity:
Religious Themes: None
Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: Alcohol is drank a lot by some of the characters. Weed as well as prescription medicine is used as well.
March 8, 2020
Rating: 3 🔪
Author: Clare Boyd
Publisher: Bookouture
Release Date: Out Now!
(Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the free copy!)
Synopsis:
I finally have everything I ever wanted. A home with floor-to-ceiling windows, a devoted husband who dazzles everyone he meets, and two angelic children I adore. But as I watch my husband chatting with the girl next door, I wonder if anyone can see the sadness in my pretty pink smile, or hear the scream behind my straight white teeth?
I know I’m crazy to think there’s a hint of desire in his eyes.
I know it's madness to see a flicker of fear in hers.
I know all this, because I’ve been wrong before.
And if I’m wrong again, he’ll try to take my children away.
The party is my last chance to prove to my husband that I’m on the mend, that I can handle something as simple as a drinks reception without snapping under the pressure. It’s all going perfectly, until I see something in the swimming pool that changes everything. But if I can’t trust myself to believe it’s real, who will?
A totally unputdownable page-turner about the darker side of love and what really goes on under the surface of perfect-looking lives. Clever and unexpected, this book will have you gripped from the very first page until the dramatic final twist. Fans of The Wife Between Us and The Mother-in-Law will be hooked.
My Thoughts:
This book is one of those books that I pick up out of boredom and the next minute I know I've finished the whole book. It was literally unputdownable, as in once I'd started it I quickly found I'd finished it. It wasn't though, by any means one of those books where I don't want to put it down. For me, this book was simply enjoyable. It was interesting enough to hold my attention for a few hours on a windy, stormy night when sleep evaded, but it wasn't a book that I'd rave about. Good but not great. Interesting but not gripping.
Essentially a book with a personality to match its leading lady - interesting but empty inside. Does that make sense?
Now, I wouldn't by ANY means say this was a bad book, if a book can keep you turning the pages for several undisturbed hours then it's GOT to be good, and it did and it certainly is. Unfortunately, I wouldn't rush out to my friends and family and insist they read it, I probably won't think much about it again and I am unlikely to reread it.
I'd recommend it, as a good quick read that keeps you interested especially if you like a domestic suspense. Which is in fact very popular right now. It's a good book with an interesting few twists and turns.
March 19, 2020
My Perfect Wife by Clare Boyd was a book that caught my interest, but the execution fell flat. The two women in My Perfect Wife couldn't be more different. Elizabeth lives in a beautiful house, she's rich (maybe), has a loving husband, a semi-live in au pair and more. But she isn't happy.
Heather grew up next door to that beautiful house as the child of the gardeners. Now she has returned to help her father, their relationship is quiet and judgmental, she left her flaky bar-owning boyfriend and she needs the money. She'll work in the garden of the man who was her lover - when she was a very young teenager - and envy his wife and question every decision she has made.
Both women want Lucas - Elizabeth's husband and Heather's former lover. It would seem one of them has to win in the end. Walk away with Lucas as the prize. But maybe Lucas isn't such a prize after all.
My Perfect Wife was an enjoyable read, but not an earth-shaking thriller. The writing was good, but at times I felt like I was missing too much knowledge of the characters. Like I was reading the second book and we knew Elizabeth and Heather in the first book - so no introductions needed. I needed more info about these women. There was too much left unwritten that left a reader open to confusion.
Heather grew up next door to that beautiful house as the child of the gardeners. Now she has returned to help her father, their relationship is quiet and judgmental, she left her flaky bar-owning boyfriend and she needs the money. She'll work in the garden of the man who was her lover - when she was a very young teenager - and envy his wife and question every decision she has made.
Both women want Lucas - Elizabeth's husband and Heather's former lover. It would seem one of them has to win in the end. Walk away with Lucas as the prize. But maybe Lucas isn't such a prize after all.
My Perfect Wife was an enjoyable read, but not an earth-shaking thriller. The writing was good, but at times I felt like I was missing too much knowledge of the characters. Like I was reading the second book and we knew Elizabeth and Heather in the first book - so no introductions needed. I needed more info about these women. There was too much left unwritten that left a reader open to confusion.
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