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The Marriage Lie
Fourteen years ago Stella did something she has regretted ever since. But she did it for her daughter. Now, that mistake could mean she loses her precious girl forever… Stella follows her handsome husband Rob to the beautifully laid-out table in the restaurant he’s chosen specially for her fortieth birthday lunch. As the waiter pops the champagne, Rob proposes a toast and their crystal glasses clink together in celebration. Stella knows how they must look to anyone watching. Two people very much in love, with the perfect marriage and the perfect life. But Rob is about to drop a bombshell on Stella. He wants a divorce. If she doesn’t agree to his plan – to sell the house, divide the money and award him full custody of fourteen-year-old Georgie – he will tell their innocent daughter the one secret he promised to keep and that Stella has worked so hard to protect her from. Stella has a choice to make. To fight for her daughter, there is only one person she can turn to for help. A woman she hasn’t spoken to in over a decade. But to do it means facing up to her biggest regret, and risks losing Georgie forever, once she learns the truth… An absolutely heart-breaking and gripping novel about the price of keeping a secret. Fans of Amanda Prowse, Kate Hewitt and Susan Lewis will be gripped by this emotional family drama from the very first page. ‘ You’ve got to read this "on the edge of your seat" novel … Absolutely fantastic … It’s like one of those tea-cup rides at the amusement park… you end up with bruises after being slammed from side to side as it whirls you all over the place… But you still smile and say the ride was awesome!… Will make you smile, yell out in frustration and gasp in disbelief … There’s so much going on in this spectacular book… A must read .’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Ali Mercer is one of my favourite authors, she writes with such tenderness yet is also able to shock in an instant . This is another excellent sorry of those who aren’t what they seem and the lengths we might go to protect those we love. A real thrill ride that I thoroughly enjoyed .’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘ Will pull you in, and you will not want to put it down … This book about the importance of relationships within a family will keep you guessing until the end .’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘ I mean really... how could you not get hooked in the first chapter … Ali Mercer takes the concept of marriage and throws in every possible monkey wrench you could think of… Keeps you intrigued throughout the entire book and has you thinking that not one character is innocent… I highly recommend you read this book to find out this and so much more!!! ’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘ I love a book that keeps you guessing until the end . Ali Mercer did a fantastic job… LOVED it! ’ Two Girls and a Book Obsession , ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I would wholeheartedly recommend this novel to all… Heartbreaking but also uplifting at the same time . How is that possible? I guess you will just have to read it to find out!’ Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘ A huge twist that I definitely didn't see coming … Spectacular… Great plot that keeps you guessing throughout and lots to think about.’ Bobs and Books ‘ An excellent and emotional drama . I loved its characters. All were awesome.’ NetGalley reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘A textured and satisfying family drama … Highly believable and very finely observed… Uplifting and deeply humane. An excellent read .’ Goodreads reviewer
- GenresContemporaryFiction
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2021
1145 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
About the author
Ali Mercer
6 books79 followersAli decided she wanted to be a writer early on and wrote her first novel when she was at primary school. She did an English degree and spent her early twenties working in various jobs in journalism, including as a reporter for the showbusiness newspaper The Stage. She started writing fiction in earnest after getting married, moving out of London to the Oxfordshire market town of Abingdon and starting a family. She has two children, a daughter and a son who is autistic and was diagnosed when he was four years old.
Ali is fascinated by families, their myths and secrets, and the forces that hold them together, split them up and (sometimes) bring them back together again. She always travels with tissues and a book and has been known to cry over a good story, but is also a big fan of the hopeful ending.
For updates and pictures, follow Ali on Twitter (@AlisonLMercer) or Instagram (@alimercerwriter), or on her Facebook page (AliMercerwriter).
Ali is fascinated by families, their myths and secrets, and the forces that hold them together, split them up and (sometimes) bring them back together again. She always travels with tissues and a book and has been known to cry over a good story, but is also a big fan of the hopeful ending.
For updates and pictures, follow Ali on Twitter (@AlisonLMercer) or Instagram (@alimercerwriter), or on her Facebook page (AliMercerwriter).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 17, 2021
I have loved all of this writer’s books and this is no exception.
A shocking opener left me , and the main character Stella, reeling. I was tempted to rush through this book to find out what happens but it is so beautifully written I took it slowly to savour it. There are twists and turns that take you by surprise but they are very cleverly set up. I loved the character of Molly and as her story unfolds I was so impressed with the sensitive handling of her story. Highly recommend. A great read.
A shocking opener left me , and the main character Stella, reeling. I was tempted to rush through this book to find out what happens but it is so beautifully written I took it slowly to savour it. There are twists and turns that take you by surprise but they are very cleverly set up. I loved the character of Molly and as her story unfolds I was so impressed with the sensitive handling of her story. Highly recommend. A great read.
May 5, 2021
It all begins in a swish, swanky restaurant and relations between Stella and Rob seem perfect - before Stella’s life begins to unravel in spectacular ways.
Instead of driving home from the restaurant afterwards, Stella is taken to somewhere very different ...
Many turns and twists in Stella’s strange family life push the plot forwards until the box of secrets bursts open at the end.
Thanks to Ali Mercer for providing a review copy of her novel.
Instead of driving home from the restaurant afterwards, Stella is taken to somewhere very different ...
Many turns and twists in Stella’s strange family life push the plot forwards until the box of secrets bursts open at the end.
Thanks to Ali Mercer for providing a review copy of her novel.
July 21, 2021
A beautiful lunch, just the two of them. Their daughter is away on a school trip for a couple of days. Stella is happy. Everything is going well in her life. Then her husband Rob takes her to show her a beautiful house in a gated community. But...wait. Rob has a plan and he is not about to compromise. In short. The marriage is over, and he is taking primary custody of their teen daughter Georgie. If Stella balks, Rob will share a secret she has been hiding for years. Blackmail, and not a gentle one by any stretch of the imagination.
Stella is reeling. While it is true that the secret that Stella is hiding will devastate Georgie, she looks for a way to get around Rob and his ideas. However, Stella is plagued with concern when she worries about Georgie discovering the secret she has been hiding. Will Stella accept a divorce from Rob and accept the conditions he is pressing on her?
What is this secret? What actually happened in Stella's past? What about now? What is more is that Stella has a strained relationship with her mother, stepfather, and especially her sister. Considering that her mother is Rob's #1 fan certainly doesn't make things any easier for Stella. Then, considering the fact that her stepfather is terminally ill doesn't make anything going on right now any easier. What about Stella's sister Molly? Will the two of them ever be able to deal with the incredible amount of tension and distance between them?
What a story! A domestic drama at its best. So many relationships in this book. All of them filled with tension beyond belief. Stella might have one person in her corner, and that is new neighbor Tony, but even that seems iffy. Then, faced with an unexpected loss, Stella hardly has anywhere to turn. Then when we factor in Rob's agenda and Stella is forced to take matters into her own hands. The Marriage Lie was an intriguing story and I enjoyed and watching things unfold as they led to a satisfying conclusion.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Stella is reeling. While it is true that the secret that Stella is hiding will devastate Georgie, she looks for a way to get around Rob and his ideas. However, Stella is plagued with concern when she worries about Georgie discovering the secret she has been hiding. Will Stella accept a divorce from Rob and accept the conditions he is pressing on her?
What is this secret? What actually happened in Stella's past? What about now? What is more is that Stella has a strained relationship with her mother, stepfather, and especially her sister. Considering that her mother is Rob's #1 fan certainly doesn't make things any easier for Stella. Then, considering the fact that her stepfather is terminally ill doesn't make anything going on right now any easier. What about Stella's sister Molly? Will the two of them ever be able to deal with the incredible amount of tension and distance between them?
What a story! A domestic drama at its best. So many relationships in this book. All of them filled with tension beyond belief. Stella might have one person in her corner, and that is new neighbor Tony, but even that seems iffy. Then, faced with an unexpected loss, Stella hardly has anywhere to turn. Then when we factor in Rob's agenda and Stella is forced to take matters into her own hands. The Marriage Lie was an intriguing story and I enjoyed and watching things unfold as they led to a satisfying conclusion.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
October 11, 2021
Meh… I’m on a run of mediocre books. This wasn’t gripping or heartbreaking. The secret wasn’t remotely shocking. The husband is a d!ck from the first to last page, though life didn’t actually work out as he planned.
June 15, 2021
Stella has everything in her life, a handsome and rich husband, a lovely daughter and a beautiful home. But it doesn't necessarily mean everything is going fine in her life. Her husband takes her out for dinner on her 40th birthday and gifts her a brand new home and has arranged everything that she needs in advance.
In short, he wants her to move out of his house and agree to the divorce. If she rejects or questions any of it he will reveal the secret she is hiding all these years to their daughter. Will Stella agree to his terms? What's the secret she is hiding from her daughter?
I thought this would be a good thriller but was very disappointed at the end. It started with an interesting and mysterious circumstance but it was just for a few chapters. As the story progressed I lost my interest and found it very hard not to DNF it.
It wasn't a thriller but rather it was just a family drama with a bit of mystery. And the secret when revealed did not surprise me even for a bit and there was no thrill whatsoever. The main character was very weak at the beginning but gradually she became confident and strong but it's hard to like her character in the story. If you like family dramas and women's fiction with only a bit of mystery then you can give this a read.
In short, he wants her to move out of his house and agree to the divorce. If she rejects or questions any of it he will reveal the secret she is hiding all these years to their daughter. Will Stella agree to his terms? What's the secret she is hiding from her daughter?
I thought this would be a good thriller but was very disappointed at the end. It started with an interesting and mysterious circumstance but it was just for a few chapters. As the story progressed I lost my interest and found it very hard not to DNF it.
It wasn't a thriller but rather it was just a family drama with a bit of mystery. And the secret when revealed did not surprise me even for a bit and there was no thrill whatsoever. The main character was very weak at the beginning but gradually she became confident and strong but it's hard to like her character in the story. If you like family dramas and women's fiction with only a bit of mystery then you can give this a read.
May 2, 2021
A great read with good characters that held my interest throughout.
A very worthy five stars from me.
A very worthy five stars from me.
April 8, 2021
“It was the best of times; it was the worst of times….”
Anxious excitement. You know the feeling. You strut into the very expensive low-lit restaurant in your killer heels and little black dress. You’ve made it. Happy marriage. Great kid. Lovely home. Gorgeous, successful husband. This is your 40th birthday lunch. You can afford to relax and enjoy it. Can life really get any better? The present must be at home, you think. Your anticipation is killing you on the way home. Only….wait. Where is he going now? Well, this weird. He pulls up to a gated, secluded mansion, punches in a code and as the gate slides open, encourages you to step out of the car and to come have a look. He’s got a key to the home! Your heart pounds. The home is gorgeous. He gives you a tour. Then….he throws the keys at you and tells you it’s yours. Not ours. Yours. He wants a divorce he tells you before he drives off and leaves you all alone. Happy Birthday.
The best birthday present ever or the worst one imaginable?
You’ve got to read this ‘on the edge of your seat’ novel to find out! This is one of the most compelling novels I’ve read in a long time. The author throws you into a situation that shocks you because it is so utterly unexpected and you know that there’s more to the story so you have to keep reading to find out. Mercer’s characters are absolutely fantastic; each is crafted with a flaw and struggling to appear perfect. The birthday girl is the one who experiences the most growth. It’s forced upon her. I cheered so loudly for her as I read, anxiously flipping pages. My favourite character was the husband. I know, I know. WHAT?! I think what appealed to me was that I couldn’t figure out how someone could be so calculatingly cruel yet so accommodating and seemingly thoughtful at the same time. Mercer describes him as “one of the most insidious and intrusive characters” she’s ever put into a story. Perhaps there’s a desire deep down in all of us to not worry what others think of us; her husband doesn’t. The plot – well, it’s like one of those tea cup rides at the amusement park that seems innocuous but you end up with bruises after being slammed from side to side as it whirls you all over the place….but you still smile and say the ride was awesome!
The theme of gift giving in all its forms will make you smile, yell out in frustration and gasp in disbelief.
I’ll share a secret with you. I hate surprises and especially surprise gifts. Birthdays are anxiety ridden. I truly felt the emotion emanating from the wife. The author deftly explores the unexpected consequences for the giver as well as for the person on the receiving end of a surprise gift.
There’s so much going on in this spectacular book; so many different gifts to open. The 40th birthday present is just one of them….
A must read come May 28, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Ali Mercer, Bookouture and Netgalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Anxious excitement. You know the feeling. You strut into the very expensive low-lit restaurant in your killer heels and little black dress. You’ve made it. Happy marriage. Great kid. Lovely home. Gorgeous, successful husband. This is your 40th birthday lunch. You can afford to relax and enjoy it. Can life really get any better? The present must be at home, you think. Your anticipation is killing you on the way home. Only….wait. Where is he going now? Well, this weird. He pulls up to a gated, secluded mansion, punches in a code and as the gate slides open, encourages you to step out of the car and to come have a look. He’s got a key to the home! Your heart pounds. The home is gorgeous. He gives you a tour. Then….he throws the keys at you and tells you it’s yours. Not ours. Yours. He wants a divorce he tells you before he drives off and leaves you all alone. Happy Birthday.
The best birthday present ever or the worst one imaginable?
You’ve got to read this ‘on the edge of your seat’ novel to find out! This is one of the most compelling novels I’ve read in a long time. The author throws you into a situation that shocks you because it is so utterly unexpected and you know that there’s more to the story so you have to keep reading to find out. Mercer’s characters are absolutely fantastic; each is crafted with a flaw and struggling to appear perfect. The birthday girl is the one who experiences the most growth. It’s forced upon her. I cheered so loudly for her as I read, anxiously flipping pages. My favourite character was the husband. I know, I know. WHAT?! I think what appealed to me was that I couldn’t figure out how someone could be so calculatingly cruel yet so accommodating and seemingly thoughtful at the same time. Mercer describes him as “one of the most insidious and intrusive characters” she’s ever put into a story. Perhaps there’s a desire deep down in all of us to not worry what others think of us; her husband doesn’t. The plot – well, it’s like one of those tea cup rides at the amusement park that seems innocuous but you end up with bruises after being slammed from side to side as it whirls you all over the place….but you still smile and say the ride was awesome!
The theme of gift giving in all its forms will make you smile, yell out in frustration and gasp in disbelief.
I’ll share a secret with you. I hate surprises and especially surprise gifts. Birthdays are anxiety ridden. I truly felt the emotion emanating from the wife. The author deftly explores the unexpected consequences for the giver as well as for the person on the receiving end of a surprise gift.
There’s so much going on in this spectacular book; so many different gifts to open. The 40th birthday present is just one of them….
A must read come May 28, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Ali Mercer, Bookouture and Netgalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 30, 2021
Just beautiful. A stunning, astounding story that will stay with me. Written with heart. Wow. A book to savour. Just wonderful.
June 9, 2021
I'm disappointed to say that I am in the minority with those that rated this a 5 star book. And I wish I could even give it a 4 but I don't feel I would be honest if I did.
Originally I was drawn to this book by the well done cover and the enticing synopsis. It is a well written book and an easy read but with a slow start and not much excitement throughout. I wouldn't classify it as a thriller. It is more of a women's fiction with domestic/family drama and little bit of mystery thrown in. The twist wasn't really a twist and I wasn't surprised by it so no "thrill" for me.
Unfortunately, I was not able to connect with any of the characters. I did not really like any of them especially Stella, the main character. During the first part of the book I couldn't stand her and almost gave up on reading because of how weak she was. I hated Rob all the way through... what a jerk! and was really happy to see him get what he did in the end.
The story was told all from Stella's perspective with flashbacks to the past. I like that through the story Stella grew stronger and more confident. I especially liked that she "won" in the end.
If you like family dramas, women's fiction with a little bit of suspense then I recommend you check this book out for yourself. If you are looking for a thriller, you may be disappointed too.
Thank very much to Bookouture and NetGalley for giving the opportunity to read and review this book.
Originally I was drawn to this book by the well done cover and the enticing synopsis. It is a well written book and an easy read but with a slow start and not much excitement throughout. I wouldn't classify it as a thriller. It is more of a women's fiction with domestic/family drama and little bit of mystery thrown in. The twist wasn't really a twist and I wasn't surprised by it so no "thrill" for me.
Unfortunately, I was not able to connect with any of the characters. I did not really like any of them especially Stella, the main character. During the first part of the book I couldn't stand her and almost gave up on reading because of how weak she was. I hated Rob all the way through... what a jerk! and was really happy to see him get what he did in the end.
The story was told all from Stella's perspective with flashbacks to the past. I like that through the story Stella grew stronger and more confident. I especially liked that she "won" in the end.
If you like family dramas, women's fiction with a little bit of suspense then I recommend you check this book out for yourself. If you are looking for a thriller, you may be disappointed too.
Thank very much to Bookouture and NetGalley for giving the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 29, 2021
A book of suspense and secrets in a failing marriage. The writing was smooth though the tension could be ramped up. The plot twists though predictable were fun to read. This was enjoyable.
May 26, 2021
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Ali Mercer's THE MARRIAGE LIE.
I'm not sure how to categorise Ali Mercer...it's not thriller but it's not just contemporary fiction either. It's a bit of domestic drama, a bit of suspense and plenty of surprises. I found it slow to begin with but that just could have been me because I was dealing with my senior dog, who has a bit of dementia, getting up every two minutes in the middle of the night whilst trying to read. Once she finally settled after a couple of hours I also settled more into the book.
The story begins with Stella, excited for her 40th birthday her husband Rob is taking her on. Then he drives her to an isolated house at the end of a lane and she wonders what are they doing here? He assured her it would only take a minute to have a look around as he was eager for her feedback on the place. Rob is a kind of property developer, buying houses and doing them up and then selling them for a profit. He doesn't normally share them with her so she was surprised he wanted her feedback on this one. As soon as she walks in she is hit with traces of Rob all over. The interior is stark white with a minimalist touch throughout. It was sparsely furnished with just a small table and two chairs in the kitchen, a sofa and flat screen TV in the sitting room and although there were three bedrooms upstairs there was a single bed in only one of them.
When he had finished showing her around, he asked what did she think. Stella was at a loss for words...what could she say that wouldn't offend him and spark a row? He assured her he could take her criticism. When she said that she was sure it would be someone's dream home but it wasn't her's, he answered her with "I'm sure you'll get used to it" and placed a set of keys in her hand. She looked at them and asked what was going on? He informed her that this was her birthday surprise, that he wanted a divorce and she would comply...or else he would reveal her biggest secret. Thus losing the greatest love of her life - her daughter Georgie - who he apparently would allow her to have on weekends though she would live with him throughout the week. And she would agree to his terms. If she didn't, she would be sorry.
Without a backward glance, Rob leaves Stella standing dumbfounded in her new house with instructions that she would be at the mediator's the following morning to begin the process of their divorce. Almost at once I thought how the hell did he expect her to get there when she was in the middle of nowhere with no car, since he drove her and left her there? But Stella was nothing if nor resourceful. She began trudging down the lane looking for a bus stop to take her back to Kettlebridge and their house in an affluent neighbourhood. However she was in heels that weren't made for walking and after taking a tumble, her kindly neighbour called her a taxi which took her back home. And there, she got another nasty surprise. Suddenly it was clear why Rob wanted this divorce.
Her world crumbling around her, Stella needed a voice of reason as well as comfort so she went to the only other person she could turn to - her mother. Unfortunately, her mother was a fully paid up member of the Rob Castle fan club and in her eyes he could do no wrong. She told her what had happened and as expected her mum really had no sympathy and pretty much hustled her out the door as soon as her terminally ill husband awoke from his nap. She had one other person to call...who she hadn't seen in years and who had turned their back on not only her, but all of them. Her younger sister Molly. But the reception she received was cold and dispassionate.
Stella suddenly realised she was in this on her own and if she was to get through this she could only rely on herself. After spending the first 30% feeling a little sorry for herself, Stella finally got her bitch face on and started to fight back and when she walked into that mediator's office the next morning, Rob didn't know what hit him. Yes, Stella knew there was no going back for them but they had a daughter whom they both adored and for her they needed to do this amicably with as little fallout as possible. But on one thing she was clear - Georgie was living with her and he could see her weekends.
But when they were in the midst of a war of words at the mediator's Stella's phone rang, her mum's name flashing on the screen. She took the call and everything changed. Even Rob sat up and asked if everything was alright. No, it wasn't. Her mother was dead. I have to hand it to Rob. As dastardly as he was, he showed some compassion for the woman he was tearing apart by jumping up and being with her through the difficult time. But when she mentioned contacting Molly to let her know, he became agitated and tried to dissuade her. But Molly had a right to know her mother had died. As her phone calls were going unanswered, Stella had only one option left - to go to London and tell Molly in person. And the reception she received upon arrival was anything but warm. She thanked her for letting her know and asked her to leave.
She wasn't surprised by Molly's coldness but Stella had other things to worry about...like how she was going to break the news to Georgie when she returned from her school trip the following morning. At least she had convinced Rob to allow her to stay at the house while they worked out how to tell their daughter they were separating. But Georgie was more perceptive than they gave her credit for.
And yet the secret of Stella's past still haunted her. The one that Rob had dangled in front of her that if Georgie were to find out she would hate her. But Stella reminded Rob that he was just as complicit as she though she had to agree...she could lose her daughter if the truth ever came out.
Throughout the book, readers are teased with "the secret" that threatened to tear Stella's world apart should people, particularly Georgie, were to find out. Which has everyone guessing as to what it possibly was. I figured out fairly early on what I thought it was, and I was proved correct, but the manner in which it happened wasn't really any great drama I thought. As it was hinted as being something so terrible, I had envisioned a much darker playout. But I was hoodwinked by one aspect that I never saw coming...and that made everything else fall into place and why the family was so estranged.
THE MARRIAGE LIE is a domestic drama filled with suspense but it is not a thriller. It pulls you in from the beginning as you turn the pages wanting to uncover Stella's dirty little secret and why she should be so ashamed. The family dynamics between them all are strange to say the least. And then I had to laugh...Rob got what he wanted and when he did, he realised it wasn't what he wanted after all. But by then it was too late.
The characters weren't all that likeable honestly. Stella drove me nuts at times and Rob was a complete jerk from the beginning. His arrogance was astounding that I was surprised Stella fell for it at all. He is manipulative, controlling and pretentious. I don't know what any woman saw in him, to be honest.
The story is told solely from Stella's perspective, mainly in the present but also with flashbacks to the past. And through her narrative we see her grow from strength to strength as she fights to keep her equilibrium and her some of comebacks had me chuckling and wishing I had her balls.
THE MARRIAGE LIE is not a fast paced tale but it's not a slow one either. Still it's not as fast as I like my stories but I enjoyed it just the same. I do recommend it for those who like family dramas and contemporary fiction with a little bit of suspense thrown in.
I would like to thank #AliMercer, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheMarriageLie in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
I'm not sure how to categorise Ali Mercer...it's not thriller but it's not just contemporary fiction either. It's a bit of domestic drama, a bit of suspense and plenty of surprises. I found it slow to begin with but that just could have been me because I was dealing with my senior dog, who has a bit of dementia, getting up every two minutes in the middle of the night whilst trying to read. Once she finally settled after a couple of hours I also settled more into the book.
The story begins with Stella, excited for her 40th birthday her husband Rob is taking her on. Then he drives her to an isolated house at the end of a lane and she wonders what are they doing here? He assured her it would only take a minute to have a look around as he was eager for her feedback on the place. Rob is a kind of property developer, buying houses and doing them up and then selling them for a profit. He doesn't normally share them with her so she was surprised he wanted her feedback on this one. As soon as she walks in she is hit with traces of Rob all over. The interior is stark white with a minimalist touch throughout. It was sparsely furnished with just a small table and two chairs in the kitchen, a sofa and flat screen TV in the sitting room and although there were three bedrooms upstairs there was a single bed in only one of them.
When he had finished showing her around, he asked what did she think. Stella was at a loss for words...what could she say that wouldn't offend him and spark a row? He assured her he could take her criticism. When she said that she was sure it would be someone's dream home but it wasn't her's, he answered her with "I'm sure you'll get used to it" and placed a set of keys in her hand. She looked at them and asked what was going on? He informed her that this was her birthday surprise, that he wanted a divorce and she would comply...or else he would reveal her biggest secret. Thus losing the greatest love of her life - her daughter Georgie - who he apparently would allow her to have on weekends though she would live with him throughout the week. And she would agree to his terms. If she didn't, she would be sorry.
Without a backward glance, Rob leaves Stella standing dumbfounded in her new house with instructions that she would be at the mediator's the following morning to begin the process of their divorce. Almost at once I thought how the hell did he expect her to get there when she was in the middle of nowhere with no car, since he drove her and left her there? But Stella was nothing if nor resourceful. She began trudging down the lane looking for a bus stop to take her back to Kettlebridge and their house in an affluent neighbourhood. However she was in heels that weren't made for walking and after taking a tumble, her kindly neighbour called her a taxi which took her back home. And there, she got another nasty surprise. Suddenly it was clear why Rob wanted this divorce.
Her world crumbling around her, Stella needed a voice of reason as well as comfort so she went to the only other person she could turn to - her mother. Unfortunately, her mother was a fully paid up member of the Rob Castle fan club and in her eyes he could do no wrong. She told her what had happened and as expected her mum really had no sympathy and pretty much hustled her out the door as soon as her terminally ill husband awoke from his nap. She had one other person to call...who she hadn't seen in years and who had turned their back on not only her, but all of them. Her younger sister Molly. But the reception she received was cold and dispassionate.
Stella suddenly realised she was in this on her own and if she was to get through this she could only rely on herself. After spending the first 30% feeling a little sorry for herself, Stella finally got her bitch face on and started to fight back and when she walked into that mediator's office the next morning, Rob didn't know what hit him. Yes, Stella knew there was no going back for them but they had a daughter whom they both adored and for her they needed to do this amicably with as little fallout as possible. But on one thing she was clear - Georgie was living with her and he could see her weekends.
But when they were in the midst of a war of words at the mediator's Stella's phone rang, her mum's name flashing on the screen. She took the call and everything changed. Even Rob sat up and asked if everything was alright. No, it wasn't. Her mother was dead. I have to hand it to Rob. As dastardly as he was, he showed some compassion for the woman he was tearing apart by jumping up and being with her through the difficult time. But when she mentioned contacting Molly to let her know, he became agitated and tried to dissuade her. But Molly had a right to know her mother had died. As her phone calls were going unanswered, Stella had only one option left - to go to London and tell Molly in person. And the reception she received upon arrival was anything but warm. She thanked her for letting her know and asked her to leave.
She wasn't surprised by Molly's coldness but Stella had other things to worry about...like how she was going to break the news to Georgie when she returned from her school trip the following morning. At least she had convinced Rob to allow her to stay at the house while they worked out how to tell their daughter they were separating. But Georgie was more perceptive than they gave her credit for.
And yet the secret of Stella's past still haunted her. The one that Rob had dangled in front of her that if Georgie were to find out she would hate her. But Stella reminded Rob that he was just as complicit as she though she had to agree...she could lose her daughter if the truth ever came out.
Throughout the book, readers are teased with "the secret" that threatened to tear Stella's world apart should people, particularly Georgie, were to find out. Which has everyone guessing as to what it possibly was. I figured out fairly early on what I thought it was, and I was proved correct, but the manner in which it happened wasn't really any great drama I thought. As it was hinted as being something so terrible, I had envisioned a much darker playout. But I was hoodwinked by one aspect that I never saw coming...and that made everything else fall into place and why the family was so estranged.
THE MARRIAGE LIE is a domestic drama filled with suspense but it is not a thriller. It pulls you in from the beginning as you turn the pages wanting to uncover Stella's dirty little secret and why she should be so ashamed. The family dynamics between them all are strange to say the least. And then I had to laugh...Rob got what he wanted and when he did, he realised it wasn't what he wanted after all. But by then it was too late.
The characters weren't all that likeable honestly. Stella drove me nuts at times and Rob was a complete jerk from the beginning. His arrogance was astounding that I was surprised Stella fell for it at all. He is manipulative, controlling and pretentious. I don't know what any woman saw in him, to be honest.
The story is told solely from Stella's perspective, mainly in the present but also with flashbacks to the past. And through her narrative we see her grow from strength to strength as she fights to keep her equilibrium and her some of comebacks had me chuckling and wishing I had her balls.
THE MARRIAGE LIE is not a fast paced tale but it's not a slow one either. Still it's not as fast as I like my stories but I enjoyed it just the same. I do recommend it for those who like family dramas and contemporary fiction with a little bit of suspense thrown in.
I would like to thank #AliMercer, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheMarriageLie in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
May 30, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stella has the perfect life. Hot husband. Beautiful daughter. Gorgeous home. Money. Only we quickly realize that she's hiding a massive secret. On her 40th birthday, her husband takes her out to a fancy lunch. And informs her that they're over. He's already bought her a new home and had her.things moved in. Oh, and if she questions any of this he'll tell her secret to their teenage daughter.
I'm on the edge of three and four stars with this book because I have such mixed feelings. The book as a whole was very well written. It kept me interested from beginning to end so that wasnt an issue. The characters were so well written as well. However, poor Stella had absolutely no backbone and it drove me up the wall. The story wouldn't have worked as well if she did I suppose, but the way she let Rob run all over her was admittedly awful. This is also in my opinion not a thriller. If you're picking this up for thrills you'll probably be disappointed. Women's fiction or domestic fiction yes, but thrilling she is not.
Granted, by the end Stella has found herself and genuinely become much more likeable. The ending did shock me a bit as honestly I was not expecting the turn it took towards the end. All in all, this is a genuinely good read. The growth of Stella was beautiful to see and the whole the truth shall set you free cliche definitely happened here.
Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley, and Ali Mercer for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Stella has the perfect life. Hot husband. Beautiful daughter. Gorgeous home. Money. Only we quickly realize that she's hiding a massive secret. On her 40th birthday, her husband takes her out to a fancy lunch. And informs her that they're over. He's already bought her a new home and had her.things moved in. Oh, and if she questions any of this he'll tell her secret to their teenage daughter.
I'm on the edge of three and four stars with this book because I have such mixed feelings. The book as a whole was very well written. It kept me interested from beginning to end so that wasnt an issue. The characters were so well written as well. However, poor Stella had absolutely no backbone and it drove me up the wall. The story wouldn't have worked as well if she did I suppose, but the way she let Rob run all over her was admittedly awful. This is also in my opinion not a thriller. If you're picking this up for thrills you'll probably be disappointed. Women's fiction or domestic fiction yes, but thrilling she is not.
Granted, by the end Stella has found herself and genuinely become much more likeable. The ending did shock me a bit as honestly I was not expecting the turn it took towards the end. All in all, this is a genuinely good read. The growth of Stella was beautiful to see and the whole the truth shall set you free cliche definitely happened here.
Thank you to Bookouture, NetGalley, and Ali Mercer for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
August 20, 2021
In Ali Mercer's the Marriage Lie, this riveting domestic suspense novel will leave you at the edge of your seat and hold your breath. What do you do when someone holds something over you? It all started for Stella Castle's 40th birthday when her husband treated her to a special dinner and gifted her to a home for where she lived alone. It caught her off guard when her husband wanted a divorce from her. If she didn't do what he wanted, he would reveal a terrible secret about their daughter's birth. With no where to turn, she went to her mother for advice. But she later learned that Rob was having an affair with someone else and carried his child. Was this some part of his midlife crisis to ditch her in the ditch? To protect this terrible secret, she would have to reach out to her younger sister Molly, who have been estranged from her family for years. When her mother passed away, she reached out to her sister before she left the funeral service. It only made her more determined to reconnect to her and to break free from Rob's dominating hold on her. Then, when her stepfather passed away shortly after her mother's death, she connected to Molly again and didn't show up for the service. In the end, Stella learned the shocking truth about her daughter and promised to protect her to the end, when they've both told Georgie a partial truth to satisfy her daughter's curiosity, and made their bond stronger than ever and better than before.
April 25, 2021
I mean really...how could you not get hooked in the first chapter. “The only way to stay sane - as I often reminded myself - was to be grateful for what you had. I had been lucky. I had got what I wanted. It was just that, one way or another, there was a price to be paid. But then, you couldn’t expect to gain your heart’s desire for free…”
Ali Mercer takes the concept of marriage and throws in every possible monkey wrench you could think of. Secrets and lies are at the forefront of this book. The beginning chapters are a bit long but as the book continues they get a little shorter and this book becomes a quick read. Ali Mercer keeps you intrigued throughout the entire book and has you thinking that not one character is innocent. What did Stella do to make her husband Rob hate her so much and fall into the arms of another woman? What is the deal with her baby sister Molly and why is she the outcast of the family? I highly recommend you read this book to find out this and so much more!!!
Ali Mercer takes the concept of marriage and throws in every possible monkey wrench you could think of. Secrets and lies are at the forefront of this book. The beginning chapters are a bit long but as the book continues they get a little shorter and this book becomes a quick read. Ali Mercer keeps you intrigued throughout the entire book and has you thinking that not one character is innocent. What did Stella do to make her husband Rob hate her so much and fall into the arms of another woman? What is the deal with her baby sister Molly and why is she the outcast of the family? I highly recommend you read this book to find out this and so much more!!!
April 19, 2021
The Marriage Lie by Ali Mercer is a very good novel that revolves around a marriage that is suddenly ended by the husband in a shocking and cruel manner. How could a person be so mean to someone he once loved? ‘What does it mean to be so controlled by your partner? As I read this novel I wondered what it would be like to suddenly learn that you are no longer wanted by your husband after many years of marriage. How could this happen so suddenly and what is the secret that he is threatening to reveal? Although this novel was not a mystery it did have many parts that left the reader wondering what was really happening and why was it happening? As the story progresses we learn about the wife’s dysfunctional family and the harm that this causes her as her life journey progresses. This novel is one that I thought about long after it was completed. I would wholeheartedly recommend this novel to all. It was heartbreaking but also uplifting as the same time. How is that possible? I guess you will just have to read it to find out! Thank you to Ali Mercer, Bookouture, and netgalley for allowing me to read this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review
June 21, 2021
Holy plot twists!!!!! I never saw that ending coming at all. This is one of the best psychological thrillers that I have read. This was my first book by Ali Mercer, and certainly not my last
April 17, 2021
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for this early copy of The Marriage Lie. I will say this started out with a BANG!!! What a way to celebrate your fortieth birthday. I was anxious the first few chapters but then it wasn’t as interesting. Mind you, it was well written but I figured out the main plot pretty fast. The ending was a good one, where you would want everyone to end up they way they did. I was hoping that the rest of the book would be as anxiety ridden as the first few chapters but I’m glad I stayed with it.
April 13, 2021
This is a gripping story and the cover asks, how well do you really know the ones you love? Stella had to ask herself that question because on her 40th birthday her husband completely blindsided her. As the story unfolds, we learn all that happened to get to this point, and what Stella does to save herself and her daughter. We see Stella picking herself up off the kitchen floor to finding the strength within herself to fight for herself. Finding that strength also helped her find herself. Sometimes the worst thing that can ever happen to you can turn out to be the best thing that could happen to you.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley for an honest review.
I received an ARC from Bookouture through NetGalley for an honest review.
June 6, 2021
As Stella sits in a swanky restaurant with her husband Rob to celebrate her 40th birthday she cannot begin to imagine what's going to happen to change her life around. He takes her to a newly renovated house, hands her the keys and tells her it now belongs to her. She's puzzled until he then tells her he wants a divorce and if she doesn't agree with his terms he will tell their teenage daughter a secret that's been kept from her.
A family drama, where everyone seems to have secrets from each other.
I received this ARC from Netgalley and publishers in exchange for an honest review, my opinions are my own
A family drama, where everyone seems to have secrets from each other.
I received this ARC from Netgalley and publishers in exchange for an honest review, my opinions are my own
May 30, 2021
Great start, laboured ending
I loved the sample that I had downloaded and bought the book via Kindle only to find that the story dragged on and on with the same old theme throughout. Disappointing and very repetitive.
I loved the sample that I had downloaded and bought the book via Kindle only to find that the story dragged on and on with the same old theme throughout. Disappointing and very repetitive.
May 27, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Marriage Lie' by Ali Mercer.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ali Mercer, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th May 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching beaitiful cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated 'Fans of Amanda Prowse, Kate Hewitt and Susan Lewis will be gripped by this emotional family drama from the very first page'. I am a huge fan of Kate Hewitt so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 33 chapters and an Afterword. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Oxfordshire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Oxfordshire on several occasions so am looking forward to see if I recognise anywhere.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonist is Stella. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
This book is very well written and the insights into the past let's the reader piece together what is going on. The descriptiona are vivid and help to set the scene. The cover and synopsis worked well with the storyline.
The storyline itself is intriguing and keeps the reader guessing what the big secret is. Unfortunately I managed to work it out pretty quickly but I was thrown by the explosive revelation which I was not expecting. Although I worked it out please don't let this out you off as I read loads of psychological thrillers and it's getting harder and harder to be surprised. It definitely shows how quickly things can change when you least expecting it. Although I had figured out what the big secret was it was still an enjoyable read which had me on the edge of my seat on a few occasions. The storyline was filled with deceit, lies and secrets.
The characters are strong and realistic. Unfortunately I just didn't click with any of the characters. I felt like screaming at Stella on several occasions and just felt that she was very weak but she did pull through in the end and I am glad how it ended. I couldn't stand Rob from the start no idea what she saw in him and her mother absolutely disgusted me with her attitude. On several occasions I did feel sorry for Stella. I did like Tony and would have liked to see more of him. I also really liked George and thought she was very mature for her age and a very likable character.
Overall a suspense filled novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat guessing.
Some of my favourite quotes in this book include the following:
Genres covered in this book include Saga and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of
364 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4 /5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheMarriageLie #Bookouture #AliMercer #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@AliMercer @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'The Marriage Lie' by Ali Mercer.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Ali Mercer, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th May 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching beaitiful cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated 'Fans of Amanda Prowse, Kate Hewitt and Susan Lewis will be gripped by this emotional family drama from the very first page'. I am a huge fan of Kate Hewitt so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 33 chapters and an Afterword. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Oxfordshire, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Oxfordshire on several occasions so am looking forward to see if I recognise anywhere.
This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonist is Stella. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
This book is very well written and the insights into the past let's the reader piece together what is going on. The descriptiona are vivid and help to set the scene. The cover and synopsis worked well with the storyline.
The storyline itself is intriguing and keeps the reader guessing what the big secret is. Unfortunately I managed to work it out pretty quickly but I was thrown by the explosive revelation which I was not expecting. Although I worked it out please don't let this out you off as I read loads of psychological thrillers and it's getting harder and harder to be surprised. It definitely shows how quickly things can change when you least expecting it. Although I had figured out what the big secret was it was still an enjoyable read which had me on the edge of my seat on a few occasions. The storyline was filled with deceit, lies and secrets.
The characters are strong and realistic. Unfortunately I just didn't click with any of the characters. I felt like screaming at Stella on several occasions and just felt that she was very weak but she did pull through in the end and I am glad how it ended. I couldn't stand Rob from the start no idea what she saw in him and her mother absolutely disgusted me with her attitude. On several occasions I did feel sorry for Stella. I did like Tony and would have liked to see more of him. I also really liked George and thought she was very mature for her age and a very likable character.
Overall a suspense filled novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat guessing.
Some of my favourite quotes in this book include the following:
Genres covered in this book include Saga and Psychological Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of
364 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 4 /5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheMarriageLie #Bookouture #AliMercer #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@AliMercer @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
July 12, 2021
For me, Ali Mercer's novels always start off a bit slowly but then hook me in before I know it, and The Marriage Lie was no exception.
Roughly the first two thirds are set over just a couple of days, which I love: it gives a real sense of being inside Stella's mind from one hour to the next, plus a lot happens in that time! If anything, I might have preferred it if the whole book was set during a short time span. The pacing gets a lot looser towards the end so you lose some of the tension... apart from one final, shocking twist.
I would like to have seen more of Tony in the later part, as originally it looked as if he was going to be more significant. However, as the story goes on you meet Georgie and increasingly get to know Stella's sister Molly. I absolutely loathed Rob with his cold and calculating ways; at the beginning he thinks he can manipulate Stella into doing whatever he wants, and he has been scheming for months without her knowing. Buying a house to keep her out of his way and showing her around before saying he wants a divorce is very extreme and it's no wonder that Stella is in shock at first.
While this wasn't a genre I'd usually choose to read, I'd definitely recommend if you love psychological thrillers. It was compelling and had me constantly guessing what had happened from the combination of flashbacks and present-day references. I also enjoyed seeing Stella's character develop as she gradually comes to terms with the crushing blow Rob has given her and sees the kind of person he is once she is no longer under his spell.
Roughly the first two thirds are set over just a couple of days, which I love: it gives a real sense of being inside Stella's mind from one hour to the next, plus a lot happens in that time! If anything, I might have preferred it if the whole book was set during a short time span. The pacing gets a lot looser towards the end so you lose some of the tension... apart from one final, shocking twist.
I would like to have seen more of Tony in the later part, as originally it looked as if he was going to be more significant. However, as the story goes on you meet Georgie and increasingly get to know Stella's sister Molly. I absolutely loathed Rob with his cold and calculating ways; at the beginning he thinks he can manipulate Stella into doing whatever he wants, and he has been scheming for months without her knowing. Buying a house to keep her out of his way and showing her around before saying he wants a divorce is very extreme and it's no wonder that Stella is in shock at first.
While this wasn't a genre I'd usually choose to read, I'd definitely recommend if you love psychological thrillers. It was compelling and had me constantly guessing what had happened from the combination of flashbacks and present-day references. I also enjoyed seeing Stella's character develop as she gradually comes to terms with the crushing blow Rob has given her and sees the kind of person he is once she is no longer under his spell.
June 16, 2021
On her 40th birthday, Stella is shocked when her husband announces that he wants to separate. He drops her off at a new house but Stella refuses to accept that the marriage is over. There are secrets the couple have kept for 15 years and her husband now threatens to reveal them...
OK, so I am actually reviewing this on my own 40th birthday which is kind of weird: I can't imagine my day turning out in the same way! OMG the shock that Stella faces after lunch on her special day!
The Marriage Lie is a tense domestic thriller with a psychogical edge. It's about the disintegration of Stella and Rob's marriage in tandem with the revelations of the past they share and have concealed. From the start, there is an edginess to their interactions and it is clear that Rob has been controlling the relationship from the start.
Stella is confused and scared about the past, present and future. Added to this is the emotional dimension of wanting to protect their daughter, her stepdad's cancer, and the tangled relationship with her sister and mother. There are clues throughout the first half of the book as Rob makes thinly veiled threats. I think it was pretty obvious what the big twist would be and I also guessed another secret.
The first person narrative allows us to identify with Stella as her disbelief overwhelms her. There are chapters to show events in the past and how she has allowed Rob to control all aspects of her life. I wanted to shout at her to stand up to him but when she does respond in anger he threatens her with allegations of abuse to force her compliance. Rob is cruel and selfish and had me mad at him from the first page!
The Marriage Lie is a compelling and emotional read that will have you rooting for the lead character
OK, so I am actually reviewing this on my own 40th birthday which is kind of weird: I can't imagine my day turning out in the same way! OMG the shock that Stella faces after lunch on her special day!
The Marriage Lie is a tense domestic thriller with a psychogical edge. It's about the disintegration of Stella and Rob's marriage in tandem with the revelations of the past they share and have concealed. From the start, there is an edginess to their interactions and it is clear that Rob has been controlling the relationship from the start.
Stella is confused and scared about the past, present and future. Added to this is the emotional dimension of wanting to protect their daughter, her stepdad's cancer, and the tangled relationship with her sister and mother. There are clues throughout the first half of the book as Rob makes thinly veiled threats. I think it was pretty obvious what the big twist would be and I also guessed another secret.
The first person narrative allows us to identify with Stella as her disbelief overwhelms her. There are chapters to show events in the past and how she has allowed Rob to control all aspects of her life. I wanted to shout at her to stand up to him but when she does respond in anger he threatens her with allegations of abuse to force her compliance. Rob is cruel and selfish and had me mad at him from the first page!
The Marriage Lie is a compelling and emotional read that will have you rooting for the lead character
April 12, 2021
This was a book where the first impressions of characters were changed by the end of the book. When I turned the last page, I was angered and had sympathies for the heart-breaking situations they were forced into and left alone in the world to face the repercussions and irreversible fate impacted everyone in the family. This was the story of a family, whose destinies altered by one cruel divine act.
On her fortieth birthday, Stella’s husband Rob dropped a bombshell on her, threatening to reveal a secret to their teenage daughter Georgie if she doesn’t yield to his wishes. Stella has worked hard to protect the secret in her whole life.
I was confounded by the main characters as their behavior changes faster than the speed of light. One minute, Stella acts as defiant, confident but the next minute like a damsel in distress. Rob is also fickle as he is charming, protective and ruthless, cruel, selfish to the core in the next breath. I was amazed by the way he can compartmentalize. I know humans change over the time but haven't prepared for this degree of volatility.
I had a hunch about what Stella has been hiding and proved right. The reveal at the end made me go through multitude of emotions: flabbergasted, creeped me out, and I was appalled.
Overall, it was a great tale of family drama that has sacrifices, trauma, secrets, and devastation.
On her fortieth birthday, Stella’s husband Rob dropped a bombshell on her, threatening to reveal a secret to their teenage daughter Georgie if she doesn’t yield to his wishes. Stella has worked hard to protect the secret in her whole life.
I was confounded by the main characters as their behavior changes faster than the speed of light. One minute, Stella acts as defiant, confident but the next minute like a damsel in distress. Rob is also fickle as he is charming, protective and ruthless, cruel, selfish to the core in the next breath. I was amazed by the way he can compartmentalize. I know humans change over the time but haven't prepared for this degree of volatility.
I had a hunch about what Stella has been hiding and proved right. The reveal at the end made me go through multitude of emotions: flabbergasted, creeped me out, and I was appalled.
Overall, it was a great tale of family drama that has sacrifices, trauma, secrets, and devastation.
June 2, 2021
Rob and Stella Castle are having lunch at an expensive restaurant to celebrate her 40th birthday. Rob works in property development and Stella is a teacher. They are the parents of Georgie, age 14, who is currently on a school trip.
After lunch, Rob takes Stella to show her a remote home telling her that she will live there and Georgie will live with him. He plans to divorce her and she has nothing to say about it because she has a secret that he knows Stella does not want Georgie to find out about.
I really thought that this “secret” was going to be truly explosive, but it’s really not. Stella’s mother, stepfather and sister are all people I would want nothing to do with. Rod needs to be shot off into space somewhere. What a hateful, arrogant, conceited, and downright mean jerk. Stella needed to learn to stand up to bad people Why didn’t she head straight to a solicitor and file for divorce from Rod? Georgie is the only character with any class. I kept reading thinking there was going to be some big ending but it just didn’t happen. I’ve read two other books by this author but neither of them were what I would call spectacular. However, I am willing to try another of her books and hope that it is more appealing.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
After lunch, Rob takes Stella to show her a remote home telling her that she will live there and Georgie will live with him. He plans to divorce her and she has nothing to say about it because she has a secret that he knows Stella does not want Georgie to find out about.
I really thought that this “secret” was going to be truly explosive, but it’s really not. Stella’s mother, stepfather and sister are all people I would want nothing to do with. Rod needs to be shot off into space somewhere. What a hateful, arrogant, conceited, and downright mean jerk. Stella needed to learn to stand up to bad people Why didn’t she head straight to a solicitor and file for divorce from Rod? Georgie is the only character with any class. I kept reading thinking there was going to be some big ending but it just didn’t happen. I’ve read two other books by this author but neither of them were what I would call spectacular. However, I am willing to try another of her books and hope that it is more appealing.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 28, 2022
The Marriage Lie is truly a heartbreaking and heartwarming story all rolled into one. The author, Ali Mercer, has done an excellent jobe developing the perfect characters for this story. There are so many secrets being kept throughout this story and it seems that the biggest one will shatter so many lives. The husband in this story has so many layers that need to be pealed away and for most of the story I really didn't like him as a human being. He was a liar, a chest, and controlling. When he springs the biggest secret on his wife on her 40th birthday I thought he was so insensitive and then to place demands on his soon to be ex-wife I was really wanting to do him bodily harm. As this story plays out I am not sure how it all will end but I found myself praying for the right outcome. This story kept me spellbound and wanting to finish reading it so I could find out all the secrets. As this dysfunctional family tries to muddle through so many lies I was really wondering if they would find healing and forgiveness.
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. This is my first story by this author but I look forward to more
I was not given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not approached to post a favorable response and all opinions are my own. I have rated this story with five stars for meeting my expectations of a wonderful story that I can highly recommend to others. This is my first story by this author but I look forward to more
May 8, 2021
This is a hard review to write as I had mixed feelings about this book.
It took me a while to read as I was not totally gripped and kept getting distracted and putting it down.
I also found the main characters very unlikeable - to the point it put me off reading.
The way Stella is treated and that she puts up with it just made me cross. You know there is a reason why, but even then I found it a bit unrealistic as it was not consistent with her general personality/character in other areas of the book to put up with this.
Unfortunately this really affected my overall enjoyment of the book and I just didn’t click with this one at all.
On a positive, the book is well written, the storyline/plot is well thought out with some good twists. The characters certainly stay with you and make you think.
I do accept that many readers would enjoy this, so it’s well worth a try if you generally enjoy tense family drama with a secret.
I have certainly enjoyed other books by this author so although this particular book didn’t grab me, it won’t put me off trying her next one.
I rated it 3.5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
It took me a while to read as I was not totally gripped and kept getting distracted and putting it down.
I also found the main characters very unlikeable - to the point it put me off reading.
The way Stella is treated and that she puts up with it just made me cross. You know there is a reason why, but even then I found it a bit unrealistic as it was not consistent with her general personality/character in other areas of the book to put up with this.
Unfortunately this really affected my overall enjoyment of the book and I just didn’t click with this one at all.
On a positive, the book is well written, the storyline/plot is well thought out with some good twists. The characters certainly stay with you and make you think.
I do accept that many readers would enjoy this, so it’s well worth a try if you generally enjoy tense family drama with a secret.
I have certainly enjoyed other books by this author so although this particular book didn’t grab me, it won’t put me off trying her next one.
I rated it 3.5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
May 31, 2021
Celebrating her 40th in a fancy restaurant with her handsome husband, didn’t end up how Stella had imagined. Driving to a strange house, instead of a surprise cheesecake, her husband announces he wants a divorce and hands her a set of keys.
Stunned and shocked, Stella listens to his list of conditions and demands. Realization takes some time to dawn on Stella but the one thing that is clear immediately is how she is being threatened to stay away from their daughter, Georgie. And if she doesn’t, he’s going to rip the lid off her secret.
With much to lose, Stella slowly finds her voice and her way around the mess he has dumped her in.
A fundamental loose thread is introduced by way of Stella and her dissolving marriage, but once that thread starts to unravel, you find an intriguing, compelling story of a broken family riddled with years of dysfunctional relationships and damaging secrecy.
Another remarkable, must-read from the extraordinary Ali Mercer.
Highly recommend The Marriage Lie.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the read of Ali Mercer’s, The Marriage Lie.
Opinions expressed are my own.
Stunned and shocked, Stella listens to his list of conditions and demands. Realization takes some time to dawn on Stella but the one thing that is clear immediately is how she is being threatened to stay away from their daughter, Georgie. And if she doesn’t, he’s going to rip the lid off her secret.
With much to lose, Stella slowly finds her voice and her way around the mess he has dumped her in.
A fundamental loose thread is introduced by way of Stella and her dissolving marriage, but once that thread starts to unravel, you find an intriguing, compelling story of a broken family riddled with years of dysfunctional relationships and damaging secrecy.
Another remarkable, must-read from the extraordinary Ali Mercer.
Highly recommend The Marriage Lie.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the read of Ali Mercer’s, The Marriage Lie.
Opinions expressed are my own.
June 1, 2021
First, I want to thank Ali Mercer, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
OH SNAP!!! The Marriage Lie is the best written book with the most shocking storyline written by Ali Mercer!! Trust me I have been a fan of hers for a while and loved many of her books. However, this one had a different feel to it! Ohh it was so good and must be added to your must read list!!
Ali has you hooked right from the first chapter from then on it is completely fast paced!
Ohh right off the bat and into the story there was one character that I totally despised-Rob! Oh he was such an evil and heartless man to shock the heck out of his wife on her Birthday. She didn’t deserve to be blind sighted by any of that! Oh the more I learned about him in the book the more I hated him. Oh I know hate is a strong word.
My heart went out to so many characters in the losses that they suffered.
One of the things I loved about the book was there was a hidden secret: why Molly would have nothing to do with Georgie or the Mom. It intrigued me to know what happened.
OH SNAP!!! The Marriage Lie is the best written book with the most shocking storyline written by Ali Mercer!! Trust me I have been a fan of hers for a while and loved many of her books. However, this one had a different feel to it! Ohh it was so good and must be added to your must read list!!
Ali has you hooked right from the first chapter from then on it is completely fast paced!
Ohh right off the bat and into the story there was one character that I totally despised-Rob! Oh he was such an evil and heartless man to shock the heck out of his wife on her Birthday. She didn’t deserve to be blind sighted by any of that! Oh the more I learned about him in the book the more I hated him. Oh I know hate is a strong word.
My heart went out to so many characters in the losses that they suffered.
One of the things I loved about the book was there was a hidden secret: why Molly would have nothing to do with Georgie or the Mom. It intrigued me to know what happened.
July 4, 2024
Talking about dropping a bombshell... I can only imagine it must have felt like a bolt form the blue for Stella.
Shame on you, Rob for bringing up the matter of divorce like this and for believing you are the one to decide everything, for putting Stella with her back against the wall.
Good on Stella, though for fighting back. She is loving and caring, but does not get much in return except for her darling daughter. What is she hiding and who does she not want to find out the truth?
Shame on Rob for wanting to play both sides.
Shame on Lee for being so harsh, selfish. and feeling so high and mighty
And then there is Molly, the sister does not want to have anything to do with anyone. The big question is why?
Lots of questions arise and I had a great time seeing them being answered one by one.
This is a story about broken relationships between different people and second chances for some of them. Unfortunately some were ruptured beyond repair. One way or the other karma deals with those who thought their behaviour was totally acceptable. Karma clearly protects the wronged ones and I can only applaud this. :) 5 stars
Thank you
Shame on you, Rob for bringing up the matter of divorce like this and for believing you are the one to decide everything, for putting Stella with her back against the wall.
Good on Stella, though for fighting back. She is loving and caring, but does not get much in return except for her darling daughter. What is she hiding and who does she not want to find out the truth?
Shame on Rob for wanting to play both sides.
Shame on Lee for being so harsh, selfish. and feeling so high and mighty
And then there is Molly, the sister does not want to have anything to do with anyone. The big question is why?
Lots of questions arise and I had a great time seeing them being answered one by one.
This is a story about broken relationships between different people and second chances for some of them. Unfortunately some were ruptured beyond repair. One way or the other karma deals with those who thought their behaviour was totally acceptable. Karma clearly protects the wronged ones and I can only applaud this. :) 5 stars
Thank you
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