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Malignant
Friends for life after escaping their husbands, two women are about to forge a murderous bond in this domestic noir thriller.
Claudia and Heather have been friends and neighbors for years. Having commiserated for so long about their unhappy marriages, both women have decided it's finally time to leave their husbands. Renting an apartment together is the beginning of a new chapter for both of them--until Claudia is diagnosed with a terminal illness.
Heather is more than willing to care for Claudia through it all. But when a meeting with Claudia's ex-husband results in someone dying, the two women's new life begins to unravel even further. The solution to their problem becomes frighteningly clear . . . and Claudia has nothing to lose.
Claudia and Heather have been friends and neighbors for years. Having commiserated for so long about their unhappy marriages, both women have decided it's finally time to leave their husbands. Renting an apartment together is the beginning of a new chapter for both of them--until Claudia is diagnosed with a terminal illness.
Heather is more than willing to care for Claudia through it all. But when a meeting with Claudia's ex-husband results in someone dying, the two women's new life begins to unravel even further. The solution to their problem becomes frighteningly clear . . . and Claudia has nothing to lose.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2018
276 people are currently reading
699 people want to read
About the author
Anita Waller
48 books470 followersI live in Sheffield, UK. I am retired and have recently fulfilled my lifelong ambition of becoming a published author with Bloodhound Books.
I am married (almost 50 years to Dave) with three children and seven grandchildren.
I am a patchwork and quilting tutor as well as a writer.
My first book was Beautiful and my second, a sequel to Beautiful, is called Angel.
I am married (almost 50 years to Dave) with three children and seven grandchildren.
I am a patchwork and quilting tutor as well as a writer.
My first book was Beautiful and my second, a sequel to Beautiful, is called Angel.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 146 reviews
October 12, 2018
I know as soon as I pick one of this authors books up I won't be going anywhere soon. They are such addictive reads and Malignant was yet another one.
Claudia and Heather's friendship is one that I think many of us would envy. To be neighbours as well as good friends was so lovely to see. What wasn't though is the issues that both women are experiencing due their other halves. The story actually deals with quite a few tough subjects, which could make uncomfortable reading for some readers, but as always, the author handles it really well.
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the story so it's best that I don't delve to much into the actual story line itself. I think what the main winning ingredient in this novel though is, is the two women's friendship. It really stands out and makes for some compelling reading.
Malignant is a captivating and at times emotional read that will have you well and truly hooked. The authors writing feels so effortless and flows exceptionally well. It's the one thing that I have come to expect and love about her books. If you want a book that will draw you in right from the first page and not let you go until the very last, then you need to check out Anita Waller's books right now!
Claudia and Heather's friendship is one that I think many of us would envy. To be neighbours as well as good friends was so lovely to see. What wasn't though is the issues that both women are experiencing due their other halves. The story actually deals with quite a few tough subjects, which could make uncomfortable reading for some readers, but as always, the author handles it really well.
There are lots of twists and turns throughout the story so it's best that I don't delve to much into the actual story line itself. I think what the main winning ingredient in this novel though is, is the two women's friendship. It really stands out and makes for some compelling reading.
Malignant is a captivating and at times emotional read that will have you well and truly hooked. The authors writing feels so effortless and flows exceptionally well. It's the one thing that I have come to expect and love about her books. If you want a book that will draw you in right from the first page and not let you go until the very last, then you need to check out Anita Waller's books right now!
June 19, 2019
Oh my goodness.. that was so good! Twisty, funny and sad all in one. Loved it!
November 27, 2023
I listened to the audiobook. Not for me unfortunately.
October 11, 2018
OMG. Here she goes again… Anita has smashed it! What a gorgeous cover and brilliant story. A big five stars for this story from me. A must buy. A must read. Highly recommend!
If that prologue doesn’t grab the reader I don’t know what will! What an opening… From the start I felt sorry for poor Claudia and Heather both dealing with lifes problems! You can tell they are both strong, focused and determined women who won’t be walked all over by any man. But life just seems to get worse and worse for these ladies when they least deserve it… Will they ever have a happy ending? Good news? Happily ever after?
I also learnt something from this book… All about the word Malignant! I just thought it was a fancy book title, ooops. Thrilling, gripping and it had me hooked. A real page turner of a story. Loved it.
If that prologue doesn’t grab the reader I don’t know what will! What an opening… From the start I felt sorry for poor Claudia and Heather both dealing with lifes problems! You can tell they are both strong, focused and determined women who won’t be walked all over by any man. But life just seems to get worse and worse for these ladies when they least deserve it… Will they ever have a happy ending? Good news? Happily ever after?
I also learnt something from this book… All about the word Malignant! I just thought it was a fancy book title, ooops. Thrilling, gripping and it had me hooked. A real page turner of a story. Loved it.
October 15, 2018
Anita takes her reader on an emotional journey. The warmth of the friendship rises to the top in this book. Wonderful character development weaves through a terrific plotline. I don't like spoilers so you'll have to read it for yourself - you won't be sorry!
October 25, 2018
In this psychological suspense, Anita has yet again managed to create a great cast of characters. Some I routed for, others, I hoped they'd get what they deserved. All were perfect for the plot.
Friends Heather and Claudia plan and begin a new life together, enabling them to escape malignant relationships, little do they realise that life has other plans for them.
I've found that I can rely on Anita's books to put characters in situations that make me think 'what would I do?' With this story however, the question packs quite an emotional punch due to what the two women have been through.
This is an engrossing and emotive read that will be in my top reads of 2018.
Friends Heather and Claudia plan and begin a new life together, enabling them to escape malignant relationships, little do they realise that life has other plans for them.
I've found that I can rely on Anita's books to put characters in situations that make me think 'what would I do?' With this story however, the question packs quite an emotional punch due to what the two women have been through.
This is an engrossing and emotive read that will be in my top reads of 2018.
January 30, 2019
With friends like these...
I was enjoying the book immensely until the last couple of chapters. Hated the end. Can’t go into detail because I’d spoil it, but God! What a horrible pair of women (I’m not talking about hapless Heather who only had Claudia’s best interests at heart).
The reason I read this book was because I enjoyed another one by the same author - can’t remember the title, I’ve returned it - but thinking over it and comparing them both, the so-called heroines were both cold hearted b*****s.
I was enjoying the book immensely until the last couple of chapters. Hated the end. Can’t go into detail because I’d spoil it, but God! What a horrible pair of women (I’m not talking about hapless Heather who only had Claudia’s best interests at heart).
The reason I read this book was because I enjoyed another one by the same author - can’t remember the title, I’ve returned it - but thinking over it and comparing them both, the so-called heroines were both cold hearted b*****s.
October 25, 2018
Beautifully written book that takes you through the full range of emotions, this book will stay with me for a long time
October 11, 2018
Wow! This book has taken me on an emotional ride. I have been angry, rooted to my seat from excitement waiting for the next thing to happen, and I’ve been so sad. The writing by the author has been amazing and I have really felt like I am there a lot of the time. This is a very hard story to read but I couldn’t put it down, I was totally hooked. Make sure you have some tissues handy! I would highly recommend this book.
October 23, 2018
Let me start by saying I don’t regard myself as the target audience for this type of book. However, the writing and the characters are so compelling that I found myself drawn in by the plight of the three women who find themselves in the midst of numerous crises including failing relationships, treachery, death, murder, violence and dark, dreadful secrets.
Alongside all of this there is illness that threatens to rock the lives of two of the women to its very foundations. The emotional stakes are ratcheted up, and the tension is palpable. In the words after the story ends the author suggests why this was such a personal novel, but it is also a triumph for a writer who knows just how to tug at your heartstrings whilst also taking you along on a thrill ride.
Alongside all of this there is illness that threatens to rock the lives of two of the women to its very foundations. The emotional stakes are ratcheted up, and the tension is palpable. In the words after the story ends the author suggests why this was such a personal novel, but it is also a triumph for a writer who knows just how to tug at your heartstrings whilst also taking you along on a thrill ride.
July 14, 2023
I’m not sure if I enjoyed this or not to be honest. I don’t feel it’s a “gripping psychological thriller” but more of a farce, or comedy of errors. It was peculiar at times, sometimes sad, sometimes funny, sometimes ridiculous. I’m not sure I’d read anything by the same author either……
October 23, 2018
I had heard so much about this book I was very eager to read it. It hooked me from the start. The story of Claudia and Heather after they both decided to leave their husbands, came across so real to me and told in such a way that I felt as though I knew the characters. No spoilers, but this emotional gripping and devastating journey is a must read. Secrecy, illness, deaths,murder and missing persons made sure that I read this book in one sitting. Yet again a 5 star read from Anita Waller
March 1, 2024
Loved it! Quick easy read! Found it both sad and funny! You can't help but love Claudia and Heather!
September 25, 2024
Throughly enjoyed this read, there was alot of twist and turns, and unexpected twists. Even though there's a sadness to this story the storyline itself makes the book what it is.
Definitely recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Definitely recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 11, 2018
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I read this book the day it landed on my Kindle and I have to say thought it was fabulous!! I am a massive fan of this author’s books and I was delighted when I saw that Malignant was due to be released and it was definitely worth waiting for!
I loved the plot line and the ending was great, the characters work together brilliantly and they give the plot an added extra. It is very well written and flows brilliantly, I finished the book the day after I started it but it was a tough one to put down, I guessed a few of the twists but the ending was the brilliant and very well crafted wrapping everything up. I contacted the author when I finished the book and she said this was a one of a number of ending she had written for the book, this one suits it perfectly but I am very intrigued as to what might have happened with the others!
Another 5 star read for me from Anita Waller, really looking forward to what she releases next – this one was a complete treat to read – very highly recommended!!
I read this book the day it landed on my Kindle and I have to say thought it was fabulous!! I am a massive fan of this author’s books and I was delighted when I saw that Malignant was due to be released and it was definitely worth waiting for!
I loved the plot line and the ending was great, the characters work together brilliantly and they give the plot an added extra. It is very well written and flows brilliantly, I finished the book the day after I started it but it was a tough one to put down, I guessed a few of the twists but the ending was the brilliant and very well crafted wrapping everything up. I contacted the author when I finished the book and she said this was a one of a number of ending she had written for the book, this one suits it perfectly but I am very intrigued as to what might have happened with the others!
Another 5 star read for me from Anita Waller, really looking forward to what she releases next – this one was a complete treat to read – very highly recommended!!
February 15, 2024
This was my first Anita Waller book, but it definitely won't be my last. I listened to this as an audiobook, and I loved it. Some great storytelling and some twists and turns that kept it interesting to the end. Loved it
June 10, 2023
This was an enjoyable read about a couple of crazy broads and the men who got in their way. I really enjoyed it up until the last couple of chapters at which point I think it took a left turn into the semi-ridiculous.
December 30, 2018
This is possibly the worst book I have read in my life. Absolute rubbish!
September 29, 2025
Not really for me, but I appreciate the efforts.
October 10, 2018
Claudia and Heather have been friends and neighbours for years. They are each others support system and shoulder to cry on when life with their husbands gets too much. After one particular nasty event, both women decide that they have had enough and come to realise it is time to get out of their relationships. They rent a flat and finally they are free… but at what price…
Straight off I am going to say as much as I loved the crime element to this story, it takes a second place to they story of the women. Their friendship is one that has been their sanity over the years as they have listened and cried with each other. When they finally break away from the abusive husbands they have the chance to start again.
Claudia and Heather I absolutely adored, their tenacity, grit and determination is to be applauded, I am not going to applaud everything they have done, but I can see the reasoning… that’s all I’m saying!
The emotions run high with this book, from an emotional prologue right the way through the story to the moving Author Notes. This for me is where this author really excelled, the tone and feeling felt just right. When a terminal illness diagnosis made its appearance into the story, I was so angry as by this point I cared about the characters, I wanted to them to have a happy life. The author did such an amazing job of creating characters I could empathise with. By the end of the book the term “blown away” springs to mind for the journey that I had been taken on.
I suppose I should say a little something about the crime element of the book… the crimes work well and do feel plausible for those involved and that’s all I’m giving you! It does have a very real presence in this book and one that threw up some unexpected turns of events.
This is a fabulously brilliant book that deals with many emotions in various forms. It is a heartbreaking book in so many ways taking me from elation to despair as the characters take risks, form stronger bonds and deal with betrayal and loss and so many other things. If you are after a book that deals with family, relationships and friendship that takes dark turns and twists that will hook you from the very beginning then you really do need to read this. It is a book that falls into so many categories such as crime, thriller, suspense, family drama, family life, relationships, abuse…Oh and MURDER!!!
This is a book I would highly recommend for so many reasons, and as I read Malignant, the film Thelma and Louise came to mind… two women setting out to make a new start in their lives.
Straight off I am going to say as much as I loved the crime element to this story, it takes a second place to they story of the women. Their friendship is one that has been their sanity over the years as they have listened and cried with each other. When they finally break away from the abusive husbands they have the chance to start again.
Claudia and Heather I absolutely adored, their tenacity, grit and determination is to be applauded, I am not going to applaud everything they have done, but I can see the reasoning… that’s all I’m saying!
The emotions run high with this book, from an emotional prologue right the way through the story to the moving Author Notes. This for me is where this author really excelled, the tone and feeling felt just right. When a terminal illness diagnosis made its appearance into the story, I was so angry as by this point I cared about the characters, I wanted to them to have a happy life. The author did such an amazing job of creating characters I could empathise with. By the end of the book the term “blown away” springs to mind for the journey that I had been taken on.
I suppose I should say a little something about the crime element of the book… the crimes work well and do feel plausible for those involved and that’s all I’m giving you! It does have a very real presence in this book and one that threw up some unexpected turns of events.
This is a fabulously brilliant book that deals with many emotions in various forms. It is a heartbreaking book in so many ways taking me from elation to despair as the characters take risks, form stronger bonds and deal with betrayal and loss and so many other things. If you are after a book that deals with family, relationships and friendship that takes dark turns and twists that will hook you from the very beginning then you really do need to read this. It is a book that falls into so many categories such as crime, thriller, suspense, family drama, family life, relationships, abuse…Oh and MURDER!!!
This is a book I would highly recommend for so many reasons, and as I read Malignant, the film Thelma and Louise came to mind… two women setting out to make a new start in their lives.
May 5, 2024
Me thinks I’ve found a new favourite author!!
2 books in two days, and this one did not disappoint, sharp, funny, poignant. I’ve never thought of a terminal diagnosis as being a liberating thing until I met Claudia. What a woman, what a story.
Written brilliantly, beautifully narrated, I loved it, now shhhhh I’ve just downloaded another!
2 books in two days, and this one did not disappoint, sharp, funny, poignant. I’ve never thought of a terminal diagnosis as being a liberating thing until I met Claudia. What a woman, what a story.
Written brilliantly, beautifully narrated, I loved it, now shhhhh I’ve just downloaded another!
September 7, 2024
This was fun and entertainingly morbid. 👌
October 11, 2024
Didn't see that twist coming!
January 7, 2019
Really good read
I thoroughly enjoyed this book yet another from this author, I have not read a bad one and really look forward to the next .full of twists and turns and a clearly well ended plot.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book yet another from this author, I have not read a bad one and really look forward to the next .full of twists and turns and a clearly well ended plot.
October 12, 2018
I’ve read most of Anita Waller’s books and I’ve enjoyed them all, some more than others but they’ve all been good reads. I think that Malignant is one of my favourites.
I love a good murder in a book, but what I love about Waller is that she always gives reason for the murder, it isn’t random killings or psychopaths on a killing spree and this makes it all feel a bit more realistic. I can understand how the characters got themselves to where they are and why they take the actions that they take. Well, actually that second bit isn’t always true, especially in Malignant when one of the characters makes some decisions that don’t make a lot of sense to me.
But Waller’s books are still very different from the majority, and I really like that. Waller also creates great characters that are realistic and her writing is easy to read, I find myself immediately drawn into the story and compelled to keep reading.
I really do like Anita Waller and will now read her books without knowing a thing about them, she’s an author to add to your reading list, that’s for sure, and Malignant is a great place to start!
I love a good murder in a book, but what I love about Waller is that she always gives reason for the murder, it isn’t random killings or psychopaths on a killing spree and this makes it all feel a bit more realistic. I can understand how the characters got themselves to where they are and why they take the actions that they take. Well, actually that second bit isn’t always true, especially in Malignant when one of the characters makes some decisions that don’t make a lot of sense to me.
But Waller’s books are still very different from the majority, and I really like that. Waller also creates great characters that are realistic and her writing is easy to read, I find myself immediately drawn into the story and compelled to keep reading.
I really do like Anita Waller and will now read her books without knowing a thing about them, she’s an author to add to your reading list, that’s for sure, and Malignant is a great place to start!
October 31, 2018
Only people who are capable of loving strong can also suffer great sorrow...Leo Tolstoy
When baby Ella Mae dies just two days after Christmas...for her mother Claudia it is a grief that will wind itself forever in her heart.For Claudia something died in her that day as well.The overwhelming sense of loss never leaves her...But as the years pass , people change...and Claudia's husband is not the same person he once was.The only constant in Claudia's life is her best friend and neighbour Heather...but Heather is unhappy with her life as well.The two of them get a place together to start afresh.But sometimes new beginnings do not come easy...When something happens one has a secret burning inside her soul, and the only one she can trust is the person she trusts above all others...Just as the two women are planning new lives...one becomes very ill. As the bond between them deepens...something so very bad happens...and everything is about to come crashing down. Lives that were once whispered a promise will be broken, destroyed..Anita Wallers Malignant is a story of grief, betrayal...broken dreams.Lives shattered like glass into a million pieces.This is a book that will rip your heart out...In these pages are bonds so strong , so beautiful..that make you realise our lifetime is just a moment...And the ties that bind us can be blown apart in just an instant...An Unputdownable Heartwrencher...Spellbinding..❤
When baby Ella Mae dies just two days after Christmas...for her mother Claudia it is a grief that will wind itself forever in her heart.For Claudia something died in her that day as well.The overwhelming sense of loss never leaves her...But as the years pass , people change...and Claudia's husband is not the same person he once was.The only constant in Claudia's life is her best friend and neighbour Heather...but Heather is unhappy with her life as well.The two of them get a place together to start afresh.But sometimes new beginnings do not come easy...When something happens one has a secret burning inside her soul, and the only one she can trust is the person she trusts above all others...Just as the two women are planning new lives...one becomes very ill. As the bond between them deepens...something so very bad happens...and everything is about to come crashing down. Lives that were once whispered a promise will be broken, destroyed..Anita Wallers Malignant is a story of grief, betrayal...broken dreams.Lives shattered like glass into a million pieces.This is a book that will rip your heart out...In these pages are bonds so strong , so beautiful..that make you realise our lifetime is just a moment...And the ties that bind us can be blown apart in just an instant...An Unputdownable Heartwrencher...Spellbinding..❤
November 4, 2018
Well contrived plot
The secrets are finally revealed as Claudia and Heather share a boundless pledge to preserve their loyalty and friendship As these women suffer from unspeakable tragedy in their daily lives, they develop a bond that defies logic. Their story takes many unexpected twists and turns that leave you wondering: where is the next victim?
I gave 3 stars because Claudia's family were not as involved toward the end despite a fairly strong presence early on. Also, hard to fathom how two women have such like minds when it comes to problem solving ....
True soulmates, I guess.
The secrets are finally revealed as Claudia and Heather share a boundless pledge to preserve their loyalty and friendship As these women suffer from unspeakable tragedy in their daily lives, they develop a bond that defies logic. Their story takes many unexpected twists and turns that leave you wondering: where is the next victim?
I gave 3 stars because Claudia's family were not as involved toward the end despite a fairly strong presence early on. Also, hard to fathom how two women have such like minds when it comes to problem solving ....
True soulmates, I guess.
November 25, 2018
Awesome
Well what a book if you want a real corker then I suggest you read this book, I was hooked but never in my wildest dreams did I expect so many twist and turns, especially towards the end. I dong think anyone could have ever imagined the ending it certainly was a ending with a massive difference to any other book I have read, I am still trying to pick my jaw up off the floor this is a good few days after, every time think of the ending it’s actually ingenious. Definitely one you must must must read, one of the best book in a long time and let’s be honest lately there have been some absolutely amazing books out there. This one for me certainly well and above most YOU WILL NOT REGRET READING THIS BOOK IN A LONG TIME
Well what a book if you want a real corker then I suggest you read this book, I was hooked but never in my wildest dreams did I expect so many twist and turns, especially towards the end. I dong think anyone could have ever imagined the ending it certainly was a ending with a massive difference to any other book I have read, I am still trying to pick my jaw up off the floor this is a good few days after, every time think of the ending it’s actually ingenious. Definitely one you must must must read, one of the best book in a long time and let’s be honest lately there have been some absolutely amazing books out there. This one for me certainly well and above most YOU WILL NOT REGRET READING THIS BOOK IN A LONG TIME
November 3, 2018
An excellent read
Definitely worth your time and money. I love GOOD psychological thrillers and they are hard to come by. For once I was not disappointed. I found that I truly cared for these two women and I wanted them to ""win". They both deserved to. I don't want to give anything away so I will just close with this: Ms. Waller, I send you warm cyber hugs and will from here on say a special prayer for you on a certain winter day.
Definitely worth your time and money. I love GOOD psychological thrillers and they are hard to come by. For once I was not disappointed. I found that I truly cared for these two women and I wanted them to ""win". They both deserved to. I don't want to give anything away so I will just close with this: Ms. Waller, I send you warm cyber hugs and will from here on say a special prayer for you on a certain winter day.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 146 reviews