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Madeline Dawkins Mystery #1
Spouse Trap
Madeline Ridley had all she’d ever dreamed of: a handsome, successful husband, a place at the top of Santa Barbara society, every luxury money could buy. In all respects, her world was perfect…until she awoke in the early morning hours in a strange hotel room, alone, unclothed, with a splitting headache and no clue how she had gotten there.
When Steven Ridley comes home in the middle of a weekday and throws a sheaf of damning photos at her, Madeline’s comfortable world collapses in a swirl of blackmail, sabotage and deceit. Hoping to convince Steven of her innocence, Madeline drives to his office and unwittingly stumbles onto a scene that makes her realize who the real enemy is.
From that point on, Madeline Ridley deconstructs herself, reverting back to Madeline Dawkins in order to salvage what’s left of her life. In the process, she discovers where her true strengths lay, and with those, she steels herself for the battle of a lifetime.
When Steven Ridley comes home in the middle of a weekday and throws a sheaf of damning photos at her, Madeline’s comfortable world collapses in a swirl of blackmail, sabotage and deceit. Hoping to convince Steven of her innocence, Madeline drives to his office and unwittingly stumbles onto a scene that makes her realize who the real enemy is.
From that point on, Madeline Ridley deconstructs herself, reverting back to Madeline Dawkins in order to salvage what’s left of her life. In the process, she discovers where her true strengths lay, and with those, she steels herself for the battle of a lifetime.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2013
About the author
Cynthia Hamilton
17 books232 followersCynthia Hamilton started writing 2000 as a means of coping with a debilitating illness. Writing gave her lifeline and a way to channel her overly-active imagination. Late-stage Lyme disease turned out to be a blessing in disguise, giving her a career she never imagined for herself, one that constantly inspires her.
Cynthia writes in a variety of genres: mysteries/general fiction/memoir. She is currently working on the 10th book in the Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series, and is still finding tremendous inspiration from her protagonist.
FINDING RUTH, the book she wrote to understand her mother's life from her POV, was the 1st Place Winner in the Firebird Book Awards in the Women's Fiction and Relationships categories.
Cynthia recently attended a book signing Q & A at Chaucer's Bookstore in Santa Barbara. You can click on the link below to watch the interview:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEaLu...
During an interview on SPEAK UP TALK RADIO hosted by Pat Rullo, she spoke about her books and the role writing has played in her life:
https://www.speakuptalkradio.com/cynt...
Cynthia lives in Santa Barbara, California with her husband and their extended family. She loves reading, writing, discussing books with other book lovers, and walking for hours, especially on the beach. She considers herself immensely fortunate.
You can also find her at http://cynthiahamiltonbooks.com or on Twitter (@AuthorCynthiaH
Cynthia writes in a variety of genres: mysteries/general fiction/memoir. She is currently working on the 10th book in the Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series, and is still finding tremendous inspiration from her protagonist.
FINDING RUTH, the book she wrote to understand her mother's life from her POV, was the 1st Place Winner in the Firebird Book Awards in the Women's Fiction and Relationships categories.
Cynthia recently attended a book signing Q & A at Chaucer's Bookstore in Santa Barbara. You can click on the link below to watch the interview:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEaLu...
During an interview on SPEAK UP TALK RADIO hosted by Pat Rullo, she spoke about her books and the role writing has played in her life:
https://www.speakuptalkradio.com/cynt...
Cynthia lives in Santa Barbara, California with her husband and their extended family. She loves reading, writing, discussing books with other book lovers, and walking for hours, especially on the beach. She considers herself immensely fortunate.
You can also find her at http://cynthiahamiltonbooks.com or on Twitter (@AuthorCynthiaH
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
February 3, 2019
Spouse Trap kept me on the edge of my seat from the first line to the last. It’s teeming with fantastic characters, and the thrilling storyline moves along at the perfect pace.
Steven and Madeline Ridley are the power couple of Santa Barbara. Madeline has just spent a year planning the perfect charity ball. She has procured most gorgeous Valentino dress add to that a hunk of an investment banker husband to escort her, and it is sure to be a memorable night.
Steven’s mood takes a turn the night of the ball, and his stunned wife must hold herself together. After all, she is the chairwoman, and the show must go on. The event is wildly successful despite her personal drama. The rub is, Madeline can’t remember a thing from the moment her husband stormed out until she wakes up in what feels like a compromised position in a strange hotel room the next morning.
Madeline’s life explodes with a ferocity that would take down even the strongest person, but this woman is not the delicate flower one might imagine. Cynthia Hamilton has written a sharp, heroine that I absolutely love! My heart broke as this poor woman is dealt some of the most vicious blows imaginable. I cheered as she worked through every one of the horrors with grace and resilience.
I highly recommend Spouse Trap. I have already downloaded the next in the series, A High Price to Pay, because I am HOOKED!
Steven and Madeline Ridley are the power couple of Santa Barbara. Madeline has just spent a year planning the perfect charity ball. She has procured most gorgeous Valentino dress add to that a hunk of an investment banker husband to escort her, and it is sure to be a memorable night.
Steven’s mood takes a turn the night of the ball, and his stunned wife must hold herself together. After all, she is the chairwoman, and the show must go on. The event is wildly successful despite her personal drama. The rub is, Madeline can’t remember a thing from the moment her husband stormed out until she wakes up in what feels like a compromised position in a strange hotel room the next morning.
Madeline’s life explodes with a ferocity that would take down even the strongest person, but this woman is not the delicate flower one might imagine. Cynthia Hamilton has written a sharp, heroine that I absolutely love! My heart broke as this poor woman is dealt some of the most vicious blows imaginable. I cheered as she worked through every one of the horrors with grace and resilience.
I highly recommend Spouse Trap. I have already downloaded the next in the series, A High Price to Pay, because I am HOOKED!
January 17, 2018
Heavens but this was a hard story to put down. I think I read half the book in one day. I really enjoyed the strength of the main character as she was hit with one volley after another from her soon-to-be-ex-husband. Her ability to hold things together; strategize and then fall apart was worth seeing as it allowed me to let her be 'human' as a character and accept someone's frailties in the midst of their lives' destruction at the hands of someone else. I enjoyed how things worked out for her even though I was left with a few questions about how easily she wrapped things up.
January 3, 2015
Wonderful book
This book was a very pleasant surprise. I loved it from beginning to the end. The characters were wonderful. The author kept me reading way into the night. A book I could not put down for very long.
This book was a very pleasant surprise. I loved it from beginning to the end. The characters were wonderful. The author kept me reading way into the night. A book I could not put down for very long.
September 11, 2017
Intriguing story line and I read in two sittings. Easy to read, but enjoyable. I recommend.
April 11, 2018
Madeline is a woman appearing to have it all. She lives in an upscale Santa Barbara neighborhood. Her home is luxurious, well-maintained by professional servants, and her husband is a successful businessman. With freedom to do as she pleases, Madeline works as an event-planner and is experienced in ballroom celebrations hosting for high-society clients.
During one such ceremony, Madeline spends time dancing with a handsome stranger. This catches the attention of her husband, who angrily leaves her at the ballroom. Upset and confused over her husband's strange behavior, she remains at the ceremony she put together to ensure guests are well-treated. This decision changes her life forever.
When Madeline awakens next morning in the hotel room associated with the ballroom, she is disoriented, drowsy even, disheveled----and naked! Finding her clothes, she dresses and leaves the strange room wondering what happened. She returns home and is confronted by her husband, Steve, who hands her an envelope with pictures of her having sex with the handsome stranger from the ball.
Madeline denies knowledge of the scenes in the photos, but the evidence is clear and Steve wants her out of their posh home, lock-stock-and barrel. He quickly pushes for a divorce, and Madeline has no idea what is going on, and what to do. After swearing her love to her husband, she follows him through Santa Barbara's streets by pure chance and witnesses a scene that rocks her to her core.
As Madeline digs into what may have happened that fateful night, she realizes who may have been behind this terrible treachery. With nerves of steel, she swears to get to the bottom of things and find out why her life has been turned upside down. But she needs help, and knows it. When she hires Burt Latham, private investigator, things seem to go in the right direction. Burt knows what he is doing and soon pieces to the puzzle fall in place. But time is not on Madeline's side. In her marital prenuptial there is a clause stating that adultery will cost her everything, and those pictures are irrefutable evidence for her husband to use against her.
As Madeline and Burt come closer to finding out who planned this treacherous act, and why, Madeline realizes getting to the truth may cost her life!
This is my first book by Cynthia Hamilton I've had the pleasure of reading. I mention pleasure because it's not the typical thriller I read, which is why I enjoyed it all the more. It's the kind of book which makes readers of specific genres learn there are plenty of other good stories out there. One only needs to open the cover of a new, different genre book. The author's description of Santa Barbara makes the reader feel like you're right there. Her details of Madeline losing her mind over what happens are vivid, and one cannot help wonder if this sort of thing has happened before. I love reading books where the author has done the required research, and this book indicates Ms. Hamilton has done precisely that. It's full of mind-numbing suspense, and a real page-turner. I'm glad to see this character, Madeline 'Mad Dog' Dawkins is in a series written by Cynthia Hamilton. I look forward to learning more about her.
During one such ceremony, Madeline spends time dancing with a handsome stranger. This catches the attention of her husband, who angrily leaves her at the ballroom. Upset and confused over her husband's strange behavior, she remains at the ceremony she put together to ensure guests are well-treated. This decision changes her life forever.
When Madeline awakens next morning in the hotel room associated with the ballroom, she is disoriented, drowsy even, disheveled----and naked! Finding her clothes, she dresses and leaves the strange room wondering what happened. She returns home and is confronted by her husband, Steve, who hands her an envelope with pictures of her having sex with the handsome stranger from the ball.
Madeline denies knowledge of the scenes in the photos, but the evidence is clear and Steve wants her out of their posh home, lock-stock-and barrel. He quickly pushes for a divorce, and Madeline has no idea what is going on, and what to do. After swearing her love to her husband, she follows him through Santa Barbara's streets by pure chance and witnesses a scene that rocks her to her core.
As Madeline digs into what may have happened that fateful night, she realizes who may have been behind this terrible treachery. With nerves of steel, she swears to get to the bottom of things and find out why her life has been turned upside down. But she needs help, and knows it. When she hires Burt Latham, private investigator, things seem to go in the right direction. Burt knows what he is doing and soon pieces to the puzzle fall in place. But time is not on Madeline's side. In her marital prenuptial there is a clause stating that adultery will cost her everything, and those pictures are irrefutable evidence for her husband to use against her.
As Madeline and Burt come closer to finding out who planned this treacherous act, and why, Madeline realizes getting to the truth may cost her life!
This is my first book by Cynthia Hamilton I've had the pleasure of reading. I mention pleasure because it's not the typical thriller I read, which is why I enjoyed it all the more. It's the kind of book which makes readers of specific genres learn there are plenty of other good stories out there. One only needs to open the cover of a new, different genre book. The author's description of Santa Barbara makes the reader feel like you're right there. Her details of Madeline losing her mind over what happens are vivid, and one cannot help wonder if this sort of thing has happened before. I love reading books where the author has done the required research, and this book indicates Ms. Hamilton has done precisely that. It's full of mind-numbing suspense, and a real page-turner. I'm glad to see this character, Madeline 'Mad Dog' Dawkins is in a series written by Cynthia Hamilton. I look forward to learning more about her.
April 2, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I really liked this book. Yes, it was far fetched, but it was a fun read. I found it hard to put down. The characters were likable minus the evil doer. A good story, wonderful characters, and lots of entertainment. I can't wait for the next Madeline Dawkins novel.
I really liked this book. Yes, it was far fetched, but it was a fun read. I found it hard to put down. The characters were likable minus the evil doer. A good story, wonderful characters, and lots of entertainment. I can't wait for the next Madeline Dawkins novel.
November 30, 2018
Madeline Dawkins has a big problem … and one she might not be able to handle.
‘Spouse Trap’ opens thrillingly, and once it has you in its grip it never eases off. Author Cynthia Hamilton has crafted an addictive narrative - psychologically credible and cunningly constructed. Much more than a cozy mystery tale, the first book in Ms. Hamilton’s Madeline Dawkins series is a thoughtful study of the disintegration of a marriage and its chilling aftermath. The novel has plenty of pace and twists (but no spoilers here),and the author’s prose is smooth and engaging. You will almost certainly want to read more of Ms. Dawkins’ adventures.
Highly recommended for lovers of good ‘I-wonder-how-she-gets-out-of-this’ stories.
‘Spouse Trap’ opens thrillingly, and once it has you in its grip it never eases off. Author Cynthia Hamilton has crafted an addictive narrative - psychologically credible and cunningly constructed. Much more than a cozy mystery tale, the first book in Ms. Hamilton’s Madeline Dawkins series is a thoughtful study of the disintegration of a marriage and its chilling aftermath. The novel has plenty of pace and twists (but no spoilers here),and the author’s prose is smooth and engaging. You will almost certainly want to read more of Ms. Dawkins’ adventures.
Highly recommended for lovers of good ‘I-wonder-how-she-gets-out-of-this’ stories.
January 25, 2017
Could you imagine waking up in a hotel room (not knowing where you are), naked but don't know how you got there nor remember much from the night before?
Here was a woman who had life by the tail. She and her husband had lots of money and were well respected in Santa Barbara. Her life was perfect...until it wasn't. When her husband threw photos at her of her having sex with another man and demanding a divorce, her life went down the drain.
What an incredible story. I've never read anything like it. Following Madeline along while she at first tries to make her husband believe she was innocent and later when she investigates who set her up and why kept me fully absorbed in the story. At first I though I wouldn't be interested in this story because of the setting in such wealth but I loved Madeline. She's smart, competent and determined to find the truth.
I enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read more of her adventures.
Here was a woman who had life by the tail. She and her husband had lots of money and were well respected in Santa Barbara. Her life was perfect...until it wasn't. When her husband threw photos at her of her having sex with another man and demanding a divorce, her life went down the drain.
What an incredible story. I've never read anything like it. Following Madeline along while she at first tries to make her husband believe she was innocent and later when she investigates who set her up and why kept me fully absorbed in the story. At first I though I wouldn't be interested in this story because of the setting in such wealth but I loved Madeline. She's smart, competent and determined to find the truth.
I enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read more of her adventures.
June 27, 2015
When Lover Michelle messaged me that she thought this book had my name all over it, she was so right! Spouse Trap is my first book by Cynthia Hamilton and I'm sure it won't be my last. I do love a good mystery and this book is definitely a good mystery. Can you imagine anything more terrifying than awakening in a strange hotel room with no knowledge of how you got there? But even more terrifying is coming to realize that the whole thing was a set-up perpetrated by your husband, a man with whom you've lived an almost fairy tale existence. I have to say I was sucked in immediately by this opening. As Madeline Ridley's world unravels she finds herself in the position of being guilty until she proves herself innocent. And the cost, if she doesn't prove herself innocent, will be everything! What was once a safe and predictable life is now populated with people who have become veritable strangers.
She felt as though she were in a strange movie where odd characters kept popping out of the shadows, saying things that made absolutely no sense.
I think readers will love Madeline's character. She goes from being a pampered socialite to a woman who must call upon all her cleverness and inner strength to stay one step ahead of a man who plummets from being her world to an evil person who is determined to destroy her. Readers will love to hate Madeline's husband Steven and will love to love her old friend Mike and her dogged detective Burt. In the course of trying to regain her life, Madeline proves herself courageous and resourceful even though she must continually overcome moments of self-pity and down right terror. She is able to win over her old friend Mike, her faithful detective and an attorney who believes in her to assist her with what, at times, seems to be not just a hopeless cause, but a dangerous cause laced with tragedy. Although there is never any doubt who the bad guys are and what they are up to, I think readers will question whether Madeline can get herself out of this mess and hang on to some semblance of a decent life. As we read, we not only get to take Madeline's journey as she rescues herself from her husband's treachery, but we get to see her morph into Madeline Dawkins, the strong and likable character who will be the focus of a new series, so hang on to your seats and prepare for the ride!
October 16, 2020
In a word: fabulous! If you enjoy reading mysteries, SPOUSE TRAP is the crème de la crème. Cynthia Hamilton has created riveting, memorable characters to follow for 409 pages. I didn’t want the book to end. I'm a slow reader as I’ve said in some of my reviews, but I finished reading this novel in four days. It kept me up at night and when I finally had to put it and myself to rest, I couldn’t sleep thinking of the machinations and intrigues of Steven Ridley keeping Madeline, the main character, off kilter and completely imbalanced constantly.
Madeline is not just a mere trophy wife--she has a good brain, and her thinking processes aid her in numerous ways. I am grateful for a bit of comic relief and normality from the character Mike—a quiet hero in sheep’s clothing! And her PI is well-rounded. I don’t want to give away the plot with spoilers.
I can only say if you are an ardent fan of mysteries, I implore you to purchase this book—hop on this wild ride that will simultaneously thrill you, and exasperate you, frighten you, and keep you turning pages from the first sentence.
Kudos! Brava! Hamilton, you’ve created a marvel and I heartily commend you. If I could, I'd rate this 10 STARS!
Madeline is not just a mere trophy wife--she has a good brain, and her thinking processes aid her in numerous ways. I am grateful for a bit of comic relief and normality from the character Mike—a quiet hero in sheep’s clothing! And her PI is well-rounded. I don’t want to give away the plot with spoilers.
I can only say if you are an ardent fan of mysteries, I implore you to purchase this book—hop on this wild ride that will simultaneously thrill you, and exasperate you, frighten you, and keep you turning pages from the first sentence.
Kudos! Brava! Hamilton, you’ve created a marvel and I heartily commend you. If I could, I'd rate this 10 STARS!
April 4, 2014
Disclaimer: won this book through Goodreads.com.
Pros: This is a very good, pretty quick read; maybe quick because it’s hard to put down. I even tried reading it at work before everyone else got in, with the book on my lap under the desk just to see where this was going and ultimately winds up! I don’t take that chance with too many books.
The plot is written kind of like an episode of “Columbo” in the sense that you know at least one of the antagonists pretty early on, and that the immensely wronged Madeline Ridley (Dawkins) will probably ultimately prevail. But you still go along for the ride to see how she’ll prove it.
Unfortunately, there are a few cons. But as you can tell from the pros, they’re certainly not deal breakers. And let me say up front, some readers may not find these cons, reading a book is partially subjective. First there – again for me – was just too much designer name-dropping. I understand initially it helps define Madeline – and the life she had before it all fell apart. But it needlessly goes on throughout the whole novel. Second, we get a description of every meal she orders over the course of 291 pages. We get it: she was used to the best clothes, accessories and foods life had to offer. No need to carry this through the whole book.
Lastly and this is the biggest flaw. Madeline vacillates – often within the same paragraph! – between a resigned-to-be-strong, independent, newly-single woman – out to avenge being unjustly wronged - and a whiny, blubbering mess. No one will question that what happened to her is totally unjustified and I’m not discounting the seriousness of her initial ordeal, nor that her husband is a total sleaze-bag. And to her credit – and that of the author – you get the feeling she really did love this guy – it was not about his money – and she did all she could to help his career along. But you should get those shocked and feeling-sorry-for-yourself feelings out of the way relatively early on and then move into the anger/revenge phases for the rest of her journey. Maybe I’m being unreasonable; emotions are tricky things. But this kind of stood out more than it probably should have, and it got tiring.
I haven’t read the next novel in the series, and I plan to. Maybe it’s not so personal for Madeline next time out, and she kicks more butt and sheds less tears. And oh yeah, lose Mike.
Pros: This is a very good, pretty quick read; maybe quick because it’s hard to put down. I even tried reading it at work before everyone else got in, with the book on my lap under the desk just to see where this was going and ultimately winds up! I don’t take that chance with too many books.
The plot is written kind of like an episode of “Columbo” in the sense that you know at least one of the antagonists pretty early on, and that the immensely wronged Madeline Ridley (Dawkins) will probably ultimately prevail. But you still go along for the ride to see how she’ll prove it.
Unfortunately, there are a few cons. But as you can tell from the pros, they’re certainly not deal breakers. And let me say up front, some readers may not find these cons, reading a book is partially subjective. First there – again for me – was just too much designer name-dropping. I understand initially it helps define Madeline – and the life she had before it all fell apart. But it needlessly goes on throughout the whole novel. Second, we get a description of every meal she orders over the course of 291 pages. We get it: she was used to the best clothes, accessories and foods life had to offer. No need to carry this through the whole book.
Lastly and this is the biggest flaw. Madeline vacillates – often within the same paragraph! – between a resigned-to-be-strong, independent, newly-single woman – out to avenge being unjustly wronged - and a whiny, blubbering mess. No one will question that what happened to her is totally unjustified and I’m not discounting the seriousness of her initial ordeal, nor that her husband is a total sleaze-bag. And to her credit – and that of the author – you get the feeling she really did love this guy – it was not about his money – and she did all she could to help his career along. But you should get those shocked and feeling-sorry-for-yourself feelings out of the way relatively early on and then move into the anger/revenge phases for the rest of her journey. Maybe I’m being unreasonable; emotions are tricky things. But this kind of stood out more than it probably should have, and it got tiring.
I haven’t read the next novel in the series, and I plan to. Maybe it’s not so personal for Madeline next time out, and she kicks more butt and sheds less tears. And oh yeah, lose Mike.
July 28, 2014
Get ready for a wild ride in Cynthia Hamilton's Spouse Trap. Madeline Ridley ended up raped by a mysterious man at a fundraiser event one night. From there, it went downhill from there. Her husband Steven came home and accused her of adultery while asking her for divorce. Flabbergasted, she was cast out of her home with a tarnished reputation in Santa Barbara. Madeline vowed revenge, when she tailed a private eye meeting with her husband. She decided to get herself a divorce lawyer and a private eye on her case. She learned what evil plots her husband had against her with one dropped bombshell after another piling against her. Therefore, he sent her to a quickie divorce in Guam, when she went into a tailspin after learning about her PI's death. Madeline transformed herself and did her own sleuthing against her husband to slam him, while she had the upperhand in the end and went into another career of her own.
April 6, 2019
I spent a good time reading this book.
Madeline's character is well developed and it seems realistic.
As you go throughout the story, characters and places will be like familiar.
I recommend it.
Read: March, 2019
Published: February 2013
Format: kindle
Madeline's character is well developed and it seems realistic.
As you go throughout the story, characters and places will be like familiar.
I recommend it.
Read: March, 2019
Published: February 2013
Format: kindle
May 13, 2020
5 Stars
Spouse Trap is the first book in the Madeline Dawkins series by Cynthia Hamilton. I really enjoyed reading this exciting mystery- Ms. Hamilton’s cleverly crafted story had me avidly reading along trying to piece everything together- whilst rooting for Madeline to find the justice she deserved and win out in the end.
I loved all the tension, drama, intrigue, and suspense that Ms. Hamilton was able to instil in her story- it definitely made for an exciting read. I love when a story captivates me like this- where I lose all sense of time and place because I am so invested in the story, desperately wanting to know how things turn out in the end but also not wanting the story to end because I am enjoying it so much.
This first book certainly sets the whole series off to a fantastic start- leaving me with an addiction and needing my next ‘fix’. So, I have already been on a hunting mission and snapped up the other three books in the series just so I can see what else Madeline gets up to.
Cleverly woven with lots of interconnected elements and complex layers that made this story all the more enthralling. Highly recommended reading!!
Thank you, Cynthia Hamilton!
Spouse Trap is the first book in the Madeline Dawkins series by Cynthia Hamilton. I really enjoyed reading this exciting mystery- Ms. Hamilton’s cleverly crafted story had me avidly reading along trying to piece everything together- whilst rooting for Madeline to find the justice she deserved and win out in the end.
I loved all the tension, drama, intrigue, and suspense that Ms. Hamilton was able to instil in her story- it definitely made for an exciting read. I love when a story captivates me like this- where I lose all sense of time and place because I am so invested in the story, desperately wanting to know how things turn out in the end but also not wanting the story to end because I am enjoying it so much.
This first book certainly sets the whole series off to a fantastic start- leaving me with an addiction and needing my next ‘fix’. So, I have already been on a hunting mission and snapped up the other three books in the series just so I can see what else Madeline gets up to.
Cleverly woven with lots of interconnected elements and complex layers that made this story all the more enthralling. Highly recommended reading!!
Thank you, Cynthia Hamilton!
December 16, 2016
**spoiler alert** How does a former society woman end up with dual professions as event planner and private investigator? In this prequel to the Madeline Dawkins mystery series, author Cynthia Hamilton explains all. The sordid saga begins when Dawkins, a faithful wife and sincere philanthropist, awakens naked and hungover in a strange hotel room. As she sorts through clues about her abduction and rape, she turns to a former love and dear friend for help. Together, she and Mike uncover the improbable truths of her situation, barely in time to save her. Although this is the prequel to the series, it would be just as fun to read it after or during the series itself. Dawkins is an optimistic and deeply likable character; it's easy and fun to walk with her through her adventures.
April 18, 2014
This storyline kept me guessing. What's a wealthy Montecito wife to do when her world is turned upside down and everything she took for granted is pulled out from underneath her? Madeline Ridley/Dawkins has to figure out the answer to so many questions in this book, which is what I found intriguing.
One downside for me was that the scope of this book is very narrow, in that we are kept with the protagonist throughout, which made it tough sometimes to get a clear read on just how terrible her ex-husband was (we only hear about his deeds, but do not witness them, so he came off a bit one-dimensional at times). I think this is because while this book is a prequel to the series, it was written after the other books, so should probably be read 2nd or 3rd, rather than 1st.
Sometimes I also found it difficult to understand why Madeline was not more of a basket case over certain issues (don't want to give any spoilers here!) but again, I think that was affected by the fact that we mainly only get her point of view, so she can be an unreliable narrator. I imagine the nature of he ex-husband is explored more later on in the series too.
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking to get into a new mystery series that has travel and adventure, and a strong central heroine.
One downside for me was that the scope of this book is very narrow, in that we are kept with the protagonist throughout, which made it tough sometimes to get a clear read on just how terrible her ex-husband was (we only hear about his deeds, but do not witness them, so he came off a bit one-dimensional at times). I think this is because while this book is a prequel to the series, it was written after the other books, so should probably be read 2nd or 3rd, rather than 1st.
Sometimes I also found it difficult to understand why Madeline was not more of a basket case over certain issues (don't want to give any spoilers here!) but again, I think that was affected by the fact that we mainly only get her point of view, so she can be an unreliable narrator. I imagine the nature of he ex-husband is explored more later on in the series too.
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking to get into a new mystery series that has travel and adventure, and a strong central heroine.
December 21, 2017
I wasn't enjoying this, I'm afraid, so deleted at 7%. For a lead character, I was finding that Madeline was too insipid for my liking. She came across as one of the "Real Housewives" types that flit from charity lunch to dinner and does pretty much nothing all day. Then wonders why hubby is fed up with her. She had a nice car but even that she had to have a driver for !! It's like some women marry into money and subsequently, they regress to childhood !
I had to Google NHDF and I'm not convinced the Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts is right but that is listed right up there. So I'm none the wiser. This sentence is wrong-"...she was instantly filled a white-hot hatred." I reached a page where "The thought that he was even capable of such acts of cruelty and abuse made her start crying again" was written referring to hubby's reaction to photos of her having it off with someone else. He hadn't bashed her or anything, just told her she was a slut, which I'd think was to be expected under the circumstances. If she couldn't see that, then she was stupid as well.
I prefer my leading ladies to be a bit more ballsy, I'm afraid.
I had to Google NHDF and I'm not convinced the Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts is right but that is listed right up there. So I'm none the wiser. This sentence is wrong-"...she was instantly filled a white-hot hatred." I reached a page where "The thought that he was even capable of such acts of cruelty and abuse made her start crying again" was written referring to hubby's reaction to photos of her having it off with someone else. He hadn't bashed her or anything, just told her she was a slut, which I'd think was to be expected under the circumstances. If she couldn't see that, then she was stupid as well.
I prefer my leading ladies to be a bit more ballsy, I'm afraid.
March 4, 2017
Great read..Sometimes you see how greed will consume a person. Madelines' husband of 12 years went so far as to have her raped. Her husband had someone murdered. The stupid mans stole from her on so many levels. Thank God for a certain PI and a lifetime friend that kept her going.
I loved that there was mystery and intrigue in these pages.
At times Madeline was a bit dizzy, but trauma can make you do strange things. Planning was her forte and she made it work..
First time reading this author but will read again..
I loved that there was mystery and intrigue in these pages.
At times Madeline was a bit dizzy, but trauma can make you do strange things. Planning was her forte and she made it work..
First time reading this author but will read again..
April 18, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads Firstreads drawing.
A woman wakes up in a hotel room. Her husband presents her with pictures of her with another man, and sues for divorce, taking away her house, and all of her money.
From there she hires a PI and tries to go on the offensive.
Reads very much like a TV Show pilot for a Lifetime Channel series.
A woman wakes up in a hotel room. Her husband presents her with pictures of her with another man, and sues for divorce, taking away her house, and all of her money.
From there she hires a PI and tries to go on the offensive.
Reads very much like a TV Show pilot for a Lifetime Channel series.
August 3, 2019
So you think you’re having a bad day?? What happens to the heroine in this first book of the Madeline Dawkins Mystery series seems hardly believable, yet author Cynthia Hamilton reels us in and keeps us turning pages right from the opening chapter. A rich, privileged and somewhat frivolous Santa Barbara society wife becomes, overnight, a homeless fugitive and victim of a terrible crime. Set in Santa Barbara, the story takes off at a pounding ‘24’-style pace and just when you think there’s a break in the clouds and that Maddie is getting a grip on a nightmarish situation, along comes another curve ball in this totally absorbing mystery/thriller.
Initially Maddie seems a most unlikely candidate to take over the baton from some of America’s favourite female sleuths (Vic Warshawski and Kinsey Millhone spring to mind, with Kinsey also from the Santa Barbara area), but she soon starts to impress. Her terrible ordeal sets in motion a coming-of-age experience as she begins to question her life so far: “Had she really developed any skills, other than how to schmooze and delegate?” and more importantly, to realise that she has the resourcefulness and strength of character to change:
“This was the day the old Madeline Dawkins was re-baptized. All she had to do now was decide what she wanted her life to consist of now and figure out how to achieve it.”
Helping Maddie on her journey are two other engaging characters, ex-boyfriend Mike and local PI Burt Latham, but as the true extent of her husband’s treachery is revealed, it will be Madeline’s own grit and willingness to reinvent herself which will enable her to outwit her enemies and live to star in further adventures. A wonderful start to the series, Book 2 already downloaded!
Initially Maddie seems a most unlikely candidate to take over the baton from some of America’s favourite female sleuths (Vic Warshawski and Kinsey Millhone spring to mind, with Kinsey also from the Santa Barbara area), but she soon starts to impress. Her terrible ordeal sets in motion a coming-of-age experience as she begins to question her life so far: “Had she really developed any skills, other than how to schmooze and delegate?” and more importantly, to realise that she has the resourcefulness and strength of character to change:
“This was the day the old Madeline Dawkins was re-baptized. All she had to do now was decide what she wanted her life to consist of now and figure out how to achieve it.”
Helping Maddie on her journey are two other engaging characters, ex-boyfriend Mike and local PI Burt Latham, but as the true extent of her husband’s treachery is revealed, it will be Madeline’s own grit and willingness to reinvent herself which will enable her to outwit her enemies and live to star in further adventures. A wonderful start to the series, Book 2 already downloaded!
May 28, 2019
3.5 stars
This is the first book I have read by this author and the first in a new PI series. I had images of it being a "Stephanie Plum" type character, but that is not the case at all.
This is a well plotted story with a very distinct beginning, middle and end but, for me, there was way to much detail in some instances and yet I am left with so many questions because other things are just left hanging. I did find myself frequently skimming and skipping over some of the finer details to move the story along quicker.
The cover of the book gives nothing away about the story and there were definitely twists and turns as the book wound its way to the conclusion.
Overall it is an enjoyable read.
This is the first book I have read by this author and the first in a new PI series. I had images of it being a "Stephanie Plum" type character, but that is not the case at all.
This is a well plotted story with a very distinct beginning, middle and end but, for me, there was way to much detail in some instances and yet I am left with so many questions because other things are just left hanging. I did find myself frequently skimming and skipping over some of the finer details to move the story along quicker.
The cover of the book gives nothing away about the story and there were definitely twists and turns as the book wound its way to the conclusion.
Overall it is an enjoyable read.
February 27, 2024
Review
This book started off as a slow read for me, but then I quickly got into it. Madeline’s husband did her wrong and the hits just kept coming back to back. I was shocked by Burt. I did feel like Madeline was a little materialistic. Good book and I will probably continue reading the series.
This book started off as a slow read for me, but then I quickly got into it. Madeline’s husband did her wrong and the hits just kept coming back to back. I was shocked by Burt. I did feel like Madeline was a little materialistic. Good book and I will probably continue reading the series.
January 10, 2020
Just an ok read.
May 13, 2020
Spouse Trap by Cynthia Hamilton a thrilling four-star read. This is number one in the Madeline Dawkins series and my first read by this author, a High Price to pay can’t come soon enough for me as it looks like this series goes from strength to strength. This one will keep you on your toes, and have you second guessing everything, but what made this story for me was Madeline Dawkins herself she was a great character and really made the story, she is so much stronger than she realises and will astound you with her character.
April 6, 2014
I won this book through Goodreads First-Reads.
I couldn't decide whether to give this book one or two stars. I really liked the beginning; the mysterious hotel room, the unknown man; it was almost enchanting, but that tone didn't remain much longer Honestly, there was not one part in the book where I sincerely sympathized with Madeline Ridley.
She claimed to love her husband but when push came to shove she was all about money.
This was a superficial mystery. I really didn't find it realistic that Madeline could end up as resourceful as she became.
I couldn't relate to a high society woman who walked into the most expensive stores and bought anything, and I mean anything that she wanted.
So yes, Madeline had undergone major emotional, financial, and psychological upheavals in a very short amount of time, but she was still getting pampered with massages and mani/pedi's. She wasn't a believable character, nor was her character really in depth. She kept saying she would stop splurging; apparently she didn't know the definition of the word.
Madeline's relationship with Mike got repetitive and very annoying. She knew he still had feelings for her and called him anyway, knowing he'd get worried and demand that he stay with her or vice versa. It would take a while to calm him down and convince him she's safe, but for some reason she kept calling him, having the same conversation over and over.
My other gripe is the ending. It is almost a joke that Madeline forgave Russell Barnett. She didn't act like a true victim.
Ultimately the story was too far-fetched and unrealistic. Not to mention, the reader doesn't find out who the dark haired man Madeline danced with and was drugged by. I gave the extra star because it was interesting to live vicariously through someone who has money to spend on anything at any given time no matter how frivolous.
I couldn't decide whether to give this book one or two stars. I really liked the beginning; the mysterious hotel room, the unknown man; it was almost enchanting, but that tone didn't remain much longer Honestly, there was not one part in the book where I sincerely sympathized with Madeline Ridley.
She claimed to love her husband but when push came to shove she was all about money.
This was a superficial mystery. I really didn't find it realistic that Madeline could end up as resourceful as she became.
I couldn't relate to a high society woman who walked into the most expensive stores and bought anything, and I mean anything that she wanted.
So yes, Madeline had undergone major emotional, financial, and psychological upheavals in a very short amount of time, but she was still getting pampered with massages and mani/pedi's. She wasn't a believable character, nor was her character really in depth. She kept saying she would stop splurging; apparently she didn't know the definition of the word.
Madeline's relationship with Mike got repetitive and very annoying. She knew he still had feelings for her and called him anyway, knowing he'd get worried and demand that he stay with her or vice versa. It would take a while to calm him down and convince him she's safe, but for some reason she kept calling him, having the same conversation over and over.
My other gripe is the ending. It is almost a joke that Madeline forgave Russell Barnett. She didn't act like a true victim.
Ultimately the story was too far-fetched and unrealistic. Not to mention, the reader doesn't find out who the dark haired man Madeline danced with and was drugged by. I gave the extra star because it was interesting to live vicariously through someone who has money to spend on anything at any given time no matter how frivolous.
August 4, 2013
Cynthia Hamilton writes character-driven novels. Her protagonists balance their flaws with their strengths and earn whatever happiness they achieve. In Spouse Trap, Hamilton subjects Madeline Dawkins to a horror no woman should have to endure, and then offers her a path toward vengeance, redemption and triumph. The voice of this mystery-suspense novel is unique and memorable. The author intends Madeline to be the main character of a series of novels, and we readers will be the richer for that. The metamorphosis of Madeline Dawkins is masterful...Hamilton's skill as a writer is in full bloom in this book. As impressive as her earlier works have been, Spouse Trap takes her writing to a higher level. For regular readers and fans of her books, this novel is a tease! But a beautiful tease.
Mystery, suspense, intrigue...tragedy, hopelessness and redemption. Hamilton deftly weaves these elements through her story, never with a heavy hand. Twists and turns abound. A happy resolution is never certain, and Madeline dips and rises below and above waves that threaten to overwhelm her. She's a wonderful character. On the surface, a spoiled Santa Barbara socialite, but also a resilient woman who discovers depths of strength she never imagined she possessed. She's not the hapless, weak woman her husband judges her to be. Good for her. Madeline confronts adversity in a very human way: fearful it will swamp her, she eventually finds the resolve to battle it.
I admit I have become captivated by Cynthia Hamilton's writing. I'm a fan. If you read her works, especially Spouse Trap, I think you'll become a fan, too.
John M. McNamara
Mystery, suspense, intrigue...tragedy, hopelessness and redemption. Hamilton deftly weaves these elements through her story, never with a heavy hand. Twists and turns abound. A happy resolution is never certain, and Madeline dips and rises below and above waves that threaten to overwhelm her. She's a wonderful character. On the surface, a spoiled Santa Barbara socialite, but also a resilient woman who discovers depths of strength she never imagined she possessed. She's not the hapless, weak woman her husband judges her to be. Good for her. Madeline confronts adversity in a very human way: fearful it will swamp her, she eventually finds the resolve to battle it.
I admit I have become captivated by Cynthia Hamilton's writing. I'm a fan. If you read her works, especially Spouse Trap, I think you'll become a fan, too.
John M. McNamara
July 26, 2015
I first discovered Cynthia Hamilton by reading her novel "A High Price To Pay." I enjoyed it so much that I decided I needed to purchase the first book in the series 'Spouse Trap." I am very glad that I did. What makes Ms. Hamilton stand out is the way she immerses herself in her stories. If she wants to write about something, she just doesn't do research, she experiences it firsthand so she can make her stories so wonderfully realistic. Her writing makes me think of Robert De Niro in the movie "Raging Bull" and how he not only portrayed boxer Jake LaMatta, he became Jake LaMatta by submersing himself into his life.
It's so easy just to let yourself go and get caught up in all the excitement that is the life of Madeline Dawkins, a socialite and event planner that gets swept up into a mess of deceit and blackmail. I don't want to give away too much of the story, but things go downhill very quickly for Madeline after she waked up alone and naked in a hotel room with no idea how she got there. Something went on in that room, and someone took pictures and Madeline's life got turned upside down.
If it sounds like great story-telling, it is. "Spouse Trap" is intelligently written, fast paced, and delicious. Ms. Hamilton is a master at character development. None of her characters seem two dimensional. It feels like you are reading about real people and it's easy to become emotionally vested in them.
I really enjoyed "Spouse Trap" and I am sure you will too.
It's so easy just to let yourself go and get caught up in all the excitement that is the life of Madeline Dawkins, a socialite and event planner that gets swept up into a mess of deceit and blackmail. I don't want to give away too much of the story, but things go downhill very quickly for Madeline after she waked up alone and naked in a hotel room with no idea how she got there. Something went on in that room, and someone took pictures and Madeline's life got turned upside down.
If it sounds like great story-telling, it is. "Spouse Trap" is intelligently written, fast paced, and delicious. Ms. Hamilton is a master at character development. None of her characters seem two dimensional. It feels like you are reading about real people and it's easy to become emotionally vested in them.
I really enjoyed "Spouse Trap" and I am sure you will too.
Read
January 2, 2017Spouse Trap was a light, fun read of a nouveau rich woman whose husband devises an evil way to divorce her with the intent to leave her penniless. She is the center of the social circle in her town and, as you can expect, once a hint of scandal touches her, she becomes person non grata, which is why she goes to unbelieveable lengths to keep her problems from her acquaintances. After the PI she hired can no longer assist her, she takes on the task of becoming her own PI. Her antics take her to places we wouldn't even imagine but this is the charm of the book. It is totally unreal and this is why I enjoyed it so much. It is just a fun filled book with a lot of "Oh no, she's doing it again." and "How will she get out of this one?" spots.
August 12, 2014
Couldn't put this down- great feel good mystery
Couldn't put this down- great feel good mystery
I was pleasantly surprised by this book!
it started out a bit slow, then after a few chapters - I couldn't wait to see what happened next! I couldn't go to sleep until I finished it.
I loved the heroine and can't wait to read book 2
Couldn't put this down- great feel good mystery
I was pleasantly surprised by this book!
it started out a bit slow, then after a few chapters - I couldn't wait to see what happened next! I couldn't go to sleep until I finished it.
I loved the heroine and can't wait to read book 2
August 31, 2014
Great reading mystery, danger,suspense and sadness
I love the story line. This book has it all. It is a great mystery,good storyline, betrayal of a loving husband. and sadness a woman who finds she can make a life after being betrayed by the man she loved an trusted. loses a good friend at the hands of her husband. Couldn't put it down but was sad when it ended
I love the story line. This book has it all. It is a great mystery,good storyline, betrayal of a loving husband. and sadness a woman who finds she can make a life after being betrayed by the man she loved an trusted. loses a good friend at the hands of her husband. Couldn't put it down but was sad when it ended
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