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Good Husbands
Three wives, one letter, and an explosive secret that will change everything.
He said, she said. Who do you believe?
Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka are complete strangers, but they have one thing in common: they’ve each received a letter accusing their husbands of committing a sexual assault more than two decades prior. Is the accusation true or is there more to the story? It was a secret that remained buried for years.
With their worlds suddenly turned upside down, they don’t know who to trust—a complete stranger or the men they love and built their lives with. The three women come together to embark on a hunt for the truth, but they are hardly prepared for what they will discover. Who is the victim, and will justice ultimately be served?
He said, she said. Who do you believe?
Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka are complete strangers, but they have one thing in common: they’ve each received a letter accusing their husbands of committing a sexual assault more than two decades prior. Is the accusation true or is there more to the story? It was a secret that remained buried for years.
With their worlds suddenly turned upside down, they don’t know who to trust—a complete stranger or the men they love and built their lives with. The three women come together to embark on a hunt for the truth, but they are hardly prepared for what they will discover. Who is the victim, and will justice ultimately be served?
416 pages, Paperback
First published June 7, 2022
255 people are currently reading
8695 people want to read
About the author
Cate Ray
3 books134 followersCate Ray is a British author known for her emotionally charged thrillers. Her breakout U.S. debut, 'Good Husbands' was a Barnes & Noble Booksellers' Favourite. She is also the author of 4 novels published in the UK as Cath Weeks and was named an "Author to Watch" by ELLE magazine. You can find out more about Cate at her official website: CateRay.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 606 reviews
June 7, 2022
HAPPY PUB DAY TO ONE OF MY 2022 FAVES!!!
Btw I'm hosting a giveaway for THREE copies of this amazing novel from June 8-June 12 on my Instagram (@girlwiththepinkskimask).
Thank you Cate Ray and Park Row for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
BIG ASS TRIGGER WARNING sexual assault/violence
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 5/5 | Ending: 5/5
THE PLOT
Three wives, Jess, Stephanie, and Priyanka, receive the same letter accusing their husbands of gang raping and impregnating a woman 30 years ago, forever upturning their lives, marriages, and core beliefs.
MY OPINION
I WANT TO MAKE THIS VERY CLEAR: If you are looking for a beach read, cozy mystery, or your avg commercial/popcorn thriller, THIS IS NOT IT. This is a contemporary fiction novel with layers and strong messaging. If you want to explore society's core beliefs around sexual assault, women's issues, and marriage, this is the one.
I am giving this 5 stars because I consider the messaging extremely thoughtful, intelligent, and ON POINT. Cate Ray expertly incorporates many facts and figures about rape in the UK, making this an educational read as well. And beyond the main theme of the book, she NAILS the power imbalance in Stephanie and Dan's marriage. It really hit close to home for me.
The next reason for my 5 star endorsement is the characters. WOW. Each character is masterfully crafted and intentional with stellar development throughout the book. They each not only represent the three main viewpoints on rape (she deserved it, riding the fence/neutral, and the firm "I'm with her" believer) BUT they also represent the three phases of grief: denial, bargaining, and anger.
So, not only do you get a layered look at the WHY behind their beliefs (right back to their childhood) but you see their grief journey toward acceptance. I also appreciated that the author didn't make any of them sexual violence survivors, and therefore not creating an obvious alignment. You don't need to burn yourself to know fire is hot.
This book will certainly be polarizing in the same way as My Dark Vanessa. You will feel frustrated, sad, hopeless, and (hopefully) empowered. LET ME REPEAT MYSELF: If you do not want to get your "SJW" on, then this isn't the book for you. If you want to explore the complexities of society's beliefs about sexual assault and survivors, then this is the one.
I gave this book 4/5 on writing because the style is very particular. It isn't a Shakespearean masterpiece, but I appreciated the lack of closed caption details. The book really hit its stride in the last 50%.
I am so glad I read this. I was highlighting passages like a mf. Thank you Cate Ray for such a powerful book about sexual assault, marriage, and grief.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: character development, expert representation of the three core beliefs about sexual assault and survivors as well as the stages of grief, deep understanding of emotionally abusive relationships, great look at the WHY behind our beliefs, informative stats included
Cons: if I'm being picky, the writing quality wasn't bangerlicious but I don't consider it bad.
Btw I'm hosting a giveaway for THREE copies of this amazing novel from June 8-June 12 on my Instagram (@girlwiththepinkskimask).
Thank you Cate Ray and Park Row for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
BIG ASS TRIGGER WARNING sexual assault/violence
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 5/5 | Ending: 5/5
THE PLOT
Three wives, Jess, Stephanie, and Priyanka, receive the same letter accusing their husbands of gang raping and impregnating a woman 30 years ago, forever upturning their lives, marriages, and core beliefs.
MY OPINION
I WANT TO MAKE THIS VERY CLEAR: If you are looking for a beach read, cozy mystery, or your avg commercial/popcorn thriller, THIS IS NOT IT. This is a contemporary fiction novel with layers and strong messaging. If you want to explore society's core beliefs around sexual assault, women's issues, and marriage, this is the one.
I am giving this 5 stars because I consider the messaging extremely thoughtful, intelligent, and ON POINT. Cate Ray expertly incorporates many facts and figures about rape in the UK, making this an educational read as well. And beyond the main theme of the book, she NAILS the power imbalance in Stephanie and Dan's marriage. It really hit close to home for me.
The next reason for my 5 star endorsement is the characters. WOW. Each character is masterfully crafted and intentional with stellar development throughout the book. They each not only represent the three main viewpoints on rape (she deserved it, riding the fence/neutral, and the firm "I'm with her" believer) BUT they also represent the three phases of grief: denial, bargaining, and anger.
So, not only do you get a layered look at the WHY behind their beliefs (right back to their childhood) but you see their grief journey toward acceptance. I also appreciated that the author didn't make any of them sexual violence survivors, and therefore not creating an obvious alignment. You don't need to burn yourself to know fire is hot.
This book will certainly be polarizing in the same way as My Dark Vanessa. You will feel frustrated, sad, hopeless, and (hopefully) empowered. LET ME REPEAT MYSELF: If you do not want to get your "SJW" on, then this isn't the book for you. If you want to explore the complexities of society's beliefs about sexual assault and survivors, then this is the one.
I gave this book 4/5 on writing because the style is very particular. It isn't a Shakespearean masterpiece, but I appreciated the lack of closed caption details. The book really hit its stride in the last 50%.
I am so glad I read this. I was highlighting passages like a mf. Thank you Cate Ray for such a powerful book about sexual assault, marriage, and grief.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: character development, expert representation of the three core beliefs about sexual assault and survivors as well as the stages of grief, deep understanding of emotionally abusive relationships, great look at the WHY behind our beliefs, informative stats included
Cons: if I'm being picky, the writing quality wasn't bangerlicious but I don't consider it bad.
June 13, 2022
This rating is a case of--it's not the book, it's me. This book is described as a thriller and it is NOT. It's a domestic drama that is incredibly realistic when looking at the aftereffects of rape on the perpetrators, their victim, and the present day families of the perpetrators when their crime comes to light.
I could really relate to the wives and the lengths that their husbands reach to deny, defend, and cover up their actions. I did think that the narrative was a bit too drawn out at times with the women waffling about their participation in trying to find out what happened. I know it's realistic, but I thought it was tedious after a while.
The gaslighting is quite heavy here, but again, totally realistic to what would really happen. There was an excellent thread in this book about consent and clarifies that just because a woman doesn't say no does not mean she gives her consent.
Overall this is a rather heavy, but thoughtful and meaningful book. I think it will resonate with female readers as long as you know that it's not a thriller, but a domestic suspense novel.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I could really relate to the wives and the lengths that their husbands reach to deny, defend, and cover up their actions. I did think that the narrative was a bit too drawn out at times with the women waffling about their participation in trying to find out what happened. I know it's realistic, but I thought it was tedious after a while.
The gaslighting is quite heavy here, but again, totally realistic to what would really happen. There was an excellent thread in this book about consent and clarifies that just because a woman doesn't say no does not mean she gives her consent.
Overall this is a rather heavy, but thoughtful and meaningful book. I think it will resonate with female readers as long as you know that it's not a thriller, but a domestic suspense novel.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
March 29, 2022
3.5 STARS
Three wives, who are complete strangers receive a shocking letter. They team up together to seek the truth about the allegations in the letter. Team wives.
Are the accusations true? Their husbands are all named in the letter. They've read it now and each of them has a different motivation for wanting to follow through with investigating or to forget about the whole thing. This is where a lot of discussion about "the right thing" to do comes in. I think this would be a good book club pick with much to talk about. I can see many different opinions arising.
This was a slow-burn for me that had enough happening to hold my interest. I always wanted to pick it up and read more. The middle did get weighed down with all the secret meetings and such, but eventually moved on. I think fewer pages would have given it a boost. The ending was shocking, but also left me with more questions.
I read a physical arc / OUT on June 7, 2022
Three wives, who are complete strangers receive a shocking letter. They team up together to seek the truth about the allegations in the letter. Team wives.
Are the accusations true? Their husbands are all named in the letter. They've read it now and each of them has a different motivation for wanting to follow through with investigating or to forget about the whole thing. This is where a lot of discussion about "the right thing" to do comes in. I think this would be a good book club pick with much to talk about. I can see many different opinions arising.
This was a slow-burn for me that had enough happening to hold my interest. I always wanted to pick it up and read more. The middle did get weighed down with all the secret meetings and such, but eventually moved on. I think fewer pages would have given it a boost. The ending was shocking, but also left me with more questions.
I read a physical arc / OUT on June 7, 2022
June 1, 2022
The book has a brilliant and original plot; What would you do if you discovered that the person you loved might have raped somebody? We meet three wives who all get the same letter, where a dying woman confesses that her mother was raped by their three husbands. We follow them as they struggle to come to terms with it, trying to find their way in this new reality.
I loved this book. First of all it was very well-written. The writing style was perfect for me, and the author is gifted when it comes to using interesting metaphors and describing what happens. There wasn’t too much details, and when the author described what the characters thought, it felt authentic. The characters were interesting, especially Jess with her strong personality and moral compass. They all changed as the book progressed, and the author underlined that with physical changes that reflected Peer’s inner world changing. I found the story captivating and engrossing, and thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was also a major plus that I felt empowered by reading it, feeling proud by these brave woman who had to make hard choices. Even if there weren’t any big reveals, the story and what happened was enough.
Would warmly recommend this book to others. It will stay with you for a long time.
thanks to netgally and September publishing for this ARC.
I loved this book. First of all it was very well-written. The writing style was perfect for me, and the author is gifted when it comes to using interesting metaphors and describing what happens. There wasn’t too much details, and when the author described what the characters thought, it felt authentic. The characters were interesting, especially Jess with her strong personality and moral compass. They all changed as the book progressed, and the author underlined that with physical changes that reflected Peer’s inner world changing. I found the story captivating and engrossing, and thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was also a major plus that I felt empowered by reading it, feeling proud by these brave woman who had to make hard choices. Even if there weren’t any big reveals, the story and what happened was enough.
Would warmly recommend this book to others. It will stay with you for a long time.
thanks to netgally and September publishing for this ARC.
June 10, 2022
the setup…
Jessica Jackson works for a company representing members of the art community. Priyanka Lawley is a teacher. Stephanie Brooke is a receptionist for a high-end dental practice. They don’t know each other but soon will after they each receive a letter that states their husbands raped a college student over two decades ago. The sender is the daughter of that woman and each of these wives consider their husbands to be good men. Is it really possible that they could be this wrong about the men they’ve been with for years and fathered their children? These three strangers have to come together to seek the truth about their husbands and what really happened almost thirty years ago.
the heart of the story…
At first I approached this story as if it was a mystery but soon realized it is very much contemporary fiction, a case study about female and male attitudes regarding consent. Views about consensual sex, especially on college campuses and in associated fraternal clubs (the site in this story), differed significantly from what we know as truths today. But what was most fascinating were the three wives who, despite having been part of that era, embrace the modern perspectives…somewhat. They are distinctly different and synthesize the issues quite differently but also share a lot of common ground. Equally interesting is how they adopt a new lens in which to evaluate their spouses who are unaware of the letter and its assertions. One of the women has to go even further, needing to assess if her idea of a good marriage is flawed.
the narration
I liked that three narrators were used for the story, though they often sounded too similar. But, they were distinctive enough and all were good storytellers. The pacing was great.
the bottom line…
What makes this story work is the excellent characterizations of the three women, making the men more secondary elements, which I found unique and a strength. There’s not a bit of predictability here and the issues they struggled over rang authentic and relevant to the topic. The setting is Bath in the UK but could have easily fit in the US. Though the women were forced into a relationship because of this shared circumstance, it didn’t necessarily bond them neatly, another important aspect. I got a lot more than I’d expected and am glad it wasn’t the mystery I’d prepared for. This would make an ideal book club selection, as there is much to weigh.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Jessica Jackson works for a company representing members of the art community. Priyanka Lawley is a teacher. Stephanie Brooke is a receptionist for a high-end dental practice. They don’t know each other but soon will after they each receive a letter that states their husbands raped a college student over two decades ago. The sender is the daughter of that woman and each of these wives consider their husbands to be good men. Is it really possible that they could be this wrong about the men they’ve been with for years and fathered their children? These three strangers have to come together to seek the truth about their husbands and what really happened almost thirty years ago.
the heart of the story…
At first I approached this story as if it was a mystery but soon realized it is very much contemporary fiction, a case study about female and male attitudes regarding consent. Views about consensual sex, especially on college campuses and in associated fraternal clubs (the site in this story), differed significantly from what we know as truths today. But what was most fascinating were the three wives who, despite having been part of that era, embrace the modern perspectives…somewhat. They are distinctly different and synthesize the issues quite differently but also share a lot of common ground. Equally interesting is how they adopt a new lens in which to evaluate their spouses who are unaware of the letter and its assertions. One of the women has to go even further, needing to assess if her idea of a good marriage is flawed.
the narration
I liked that three narrators were used for the story, though they often sounded too similar. But, they were distinctive enough and all were good storytellers. The pacing was great.
the bottom line…
What makes this story work is the excellent characterizations of the three women, making the men more secondary elements, which I found unique and a strength. There’s not a bit of predictability here and the issues they struggled over rang authentic and relevant to the topic. The setting is Bath in the UK but could have easily fit in the US. Though the women were forced into a relationship because of this shared circumstance, it didn’t necessarily bond them neatly, another important aspect. I got a lot more than I’d expected and am glad it wasn’t the mystery I’d prepared for. This would make an ideal book club selection, as there is much to weigh.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
July 23, 2022
The story was good but I would have liked it to have some thriller aspects. Just a good ol' housewifes drama.
July 3, 2022
This is not a story. It is a debate in novel form.
Three women: They all had good husbands - hardworking men, good fathers, good citizens. They took care of their families, and especially their wives. Their children loved them. For decades. If ever they did something horrible in their pasts, their goodness afterwards were their way to repent or redeem for their sin. Wasn't that good enough? Shouldn't they be forgiven? Another question: did they deserve to be forgiven for the children's sake? Were all four participants able to forgive themselves for one night of sheer madness?
This novel, which is NOT A THRILLER, but more a domestic drama, is written around the issue of rape and sexual assault. One could say it is the actual protagonist in this drama, the characters being the necessary elements to fill out the theme.
The blurb: Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka are complete strangers, but they have one thing in common: they’ve each received a letter accusing their husbands of committing a sexual assault more than two decades prior. Is the accusation true or is there more to the story?
Four young people were inebriated, to the point where there were no moral brakes left, or personal control over their basic instincts, or their ability to remove themselves from a tragedy that was heading their way. Twenty years later a letter would rip everything apart.
The three women had to make a choice, even though, as it turned out later, not everything was factual.
The drawn-out plot did nothing to keep me excited. The characters were used to debate an issue. It should have, but did not, keep me riveted. The ending was totally confusing and disappointing. Lame. The characters were unlovable, sterile, puppets. I might change my mind if someone can explain the ending to me.
It can be a good choice for a book club read, since there are so many questions to be answered. One of the questions is: what if it was my daughter?
It is for the reader to decide.
Three women: They all had good husbands - hardworking men, good fathers, good citizens. They took care of their families, and especially their wives. Their children loved them. For decades. If ever they did something horrible in their pasts, their goodness afterwards were their way to repent or redeem for their sin. Wasn't that good enough? Shouldn't they be forgiven? Another question: did they deserve to be forgiven for the children's sake? Were all four participants able to forgive themselves for one night of sheer madness?
This novel, which is NOT A THRILLER, but more a domestic drama, is written around the issue of rape and sexual assault. One could say it is the actual protagonist in this drama, the characters being the necessary elements to fill out the theme.
The blurb: Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka are complete strangers, but they have one thing in common: they’ve each received a letter accusing their husbands of committing a sexual assault more than two decades prior. Is the accusation true or is there more to the story?
Four young people were inebriated, to the point where there were no moral brakes left, or personal control over their basic instincts, or their ability to remove themselves from a tragedy that was heading their way. Twenty years later a letter would rip everything apart.
The three women had to make a choice, even though, as it turned out later, not everything was factual.
The drawn-out plot did nothing to keep me excited. The characters were used to debate an issue. It should have, but did not, keep me riveted. The ending was totally confusing and disappointing. Lame. The characters were unlovable, sterile, puppets. I might change my mind if someone can explain the ending to me.
It can be a good choice for a book club read, since there are so many questions to be answered. One of the questions is: what if it was my daughter?
It is for the reader to decide.
May 11, 2022
Thank you to Cate Ray and Park Row Books for my copy of Good Husbands! HOWEVER, THIS BOOK IS NOT A THRILLER! Marketing departments, are you listening? Please please please stop marketing books as thrillers when they're not. It causes a huge letdown and is really frustrating for people who go in looking for a thriller to read.
Phew, now that my rant is out of the way, this book was about three wives who each receive a letter that lets them know their husbands were involved in a a rape 30 years ago. While the men covered up their act and moved on with their lives, the victim wasn't as lucky. Three wives, one letter, an explosive secret that will change everything.
Thoughts: This book is a contemporary fiction book. There are some good characters and many deep and complex themes the book explores. The story explores society's beliefs around sexual assault, women's issues, and marriage. It talks about victims rights and who can be a victim in different situations. The setup was good, but the execution was lacking. 3-stars.
Phew, now that my rant is out of the way, this book was about three wives who each receive a letter that lets them know their husbands were involved in a a rape 30 years ago. While the men covered up their act and moved on with their lives, the victim wasn't as lucky. Three wives, one letter, an explosive secret that will change everything.
Thoughts: This book is a contemporary fiction book. There are some good characters and many deep and complex themes the book explores. The story explores society's beliefs around sexual assault, women's issues, and marriage. It talks about victims rights and who can be a victim in different situations. The setup was good, but the execution was lacking. 3-stars.
January 6, 2023
This book will take you for ride. Wives receive a mysterious letter stating that their husbands were involved in a sexual assault many years ago. These wives get together to try to find out the truth of what really happened that night. The book follows each wife until the truth comes out. Enjoy!
July 28, 2022
you know that feeling when you're about to have an orgasm and it just kind of disappears and you're left there frustrated and confused as fuck?
that about sums up how i feel about this book
that about sums up how i feel about this book
June 6, 2022
Review coming soon.
May 22, 2022
My Rating System: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ticked most boxes ALMOST LOVED IT!!!
A 30 year old secret that is going to change everything… What do you? You would like to think you would do the right thing…. Wouldn’t you????
Would you confront it head on no matter the consequence? Think it through consider all the options before deciding? Or Ignore it completely and pretend you never found out?
Jessica, Priyanka and Stephanie are complete strangers who are about to be thrown together in the worst of circumstances. On the same day each woman receives a letter stating that their beloved husband was involved in the gang rape of a women 30 years earlier. Their worlds are thrown into turmoil and each woman handles the initial news differently and the subsequent actions of each of the other wives in glaringly different ways.
The three women eventually come together (somewhat reluctantly) to hunt for the truth, are they going to be able to live with what they find out and what will be consequences be for their husbands, families and for themselves??
Firstly, I want to congratulate the author on tackling this controversial topic with the grace and candour that I think it deserved. The author told a story that was interlaced with facts and figures and took the reader on a journey. There was no slamming an agenda down your throat you were able to read the story, (and while it was fiction) and it allowed you to very much feel the emotion, anguish and devastation for each of the characters allowing you to draw conclusions and opinions for yourself. 😪
I also felt that the story of the victim was really well handled - it was done through a series of diary entries that was read over each of the women’s POVs I loved that. You read the actual entries as they were written with all the emotion and suffering on the page but you read it through three different POVs who had various opinions, reactions and emotions about those words. It was extremely thoughtful and insightful - showing the reader how various people will interpret the same set of words and if they will in fact blindly believe or blindly disregard the words based on their own opinions and sets of beliefs. OR will they be courageous and search for the truth and fight for it. 🙌
Each of the characters (Jess, Pree and Stef) were a representation of three different points of view on this topic and how much or little a person is willing to believe if faced with potentially losing it all. Their instincts to believe or disbelieve a sexual assault victim on face value were a very real concept in today’s society and I thought that really highlighted the brilliance of the writing and how this is a poignant reminder of how these allegations are quite often not taken seriously based on how it will look in the eye of the law and how it will affect another individual, group or society at large. 🫶💖
I enjoyed the novel however, you will note that I have only given it 4 stars, there are two reasons for that - I found it got of to a really slow start with far too many details of the mundane and day to day things happening. There was a bit of hand holding throughout (not so much in the middle as I found this the strongest part of the novel) where I felt myself feeling that I wanted the author to get to the point. 🔁⏱
The second reason I scored this down is there are a couple of twists in this book to allow it to fit into the ‘thriller’ genre and while I was completely fine with one of them I felt the second and the ending were a little much. 🤯
There was a point where this story had been told and a line could have been drawn in the sand but to get it over the thriller line it kept going with an extra twist. I just found that it wasn’t needed. The story had everything it needed and if there were 100 less pages and one less twist I think this would have been a 5 star read for me. 🙅♀️💯
I want to thank my good friend GirlWithThePinkSkiMask for drawing my attention to this book and for encouraging me to read it - top stars to you Pink!! 💓🌺
Thank you to BooksGoSocial, NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
A 30 year old secret that is going to change everything… What do you? You would like to think you would do the right thing…. Wouldn’t you????
Would you confront it head on no matter the consequence? Think it through consider all the options before deciding? Or Ignore it completely and pretend you never found out?
Jessica, Priyanka and Stephanie are complete strangers who are about to be thrown together in the worst of circumstances. On the same day each woman receives a letter stating that their beloved husband was involved in the gang rape of a women 30 years earlier. Their worlds are thrown into turmoil and each woman handles the initial news differently and the subsequent actions of each of the other wives in glaringly different ways.
The three women eventually come together (somewhat reluctantly) to hunt for the truth, are they going to be able to live with what they find out and what will be consequences be for their husbands, families and for themselves??
Firstly, I want to congratulate the author on tackling this controversial topic with the grace and candour that I think it deserved. The author told a story that was interlaced with facts and figures and took the reader on a journey. There was no slamming an agenda down your throat you were able to read the story, (and while it was fiction) and it allowed you to very much feel the emotion, anguish and devastation for each of the characters allowing you to draw conclusions and opinions for yourself. 😪
I also felt that the story of the victim was really well handled - it was done through a series of diary entries that was read over each of the women’s POVs I loved that. You read the actual entries as they were written with all the emotion and suffering on the page but you read it through three different POVs who had various opinions, reactions and emotions about those words. It was extremely thoughtful and insightful - showing the reader how various people will interpret the same set of words and if they will in fact blindly believe or blindly disregard the words based on their own opinions and sets of beliefs. OR will they be courageous and search for the truth and fight for it. 🙌
Each of the characters (Jess, Pree and Stef) were a representation of three different points of view on this topic and how much or little a person is willing to believe if faced with potentially losing it all. Their instincts to believe or disbelieve a sexual assault victim on face value were a very real concept in today’s society and I thought that really highlighted the brilliance of the writing and how this is a poignant reminder of how these allegations are quite often not taken seriously based on how it will look in the eye of the law and how it will affect another individual, group or society at large. 🫶💖
I enjoyed the novel however, you will note that I have only given it 4 stars, there are two reasons for that - I found it got of to a really slow start with far too many details of the mundane and day to day things happening. There was a bit of hand holding throughout (not so much in the middle as I found this the strongest part of the novel) where I felt myself feeling that I wanted the author to get to the point. 🔁⏱
The second reason I scored this down is there are a couple of twists in this book to allow it to fit into the ‘thriller’ genre and while I was completely fine with one of them I felt the second and the ending were a little much. 🤯
There was a point where this story had been told and a line could have been drawn in the sand but to get it over the thriller line it kept going with an extra twist. I just found that it wasn’t needed. The story had everything it needed and if there were 100 less pages and one less twist I think this would have been a 5 star read for me. 🙅♀️💯
I want to thank my good friend GirlWithThePinkSkiMask for drawing my attention to this book and for encouraging me to read it - top stars to you Pink!! 💓🌺
Thank you to BooksGoSocial, NetGalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
June 5, 2022
Not the easiest of books to read. Lots and lots of content warnings including rape and domestic abuse. It was a hard one to read at times.
This is more a character driven story than a thriller in my mind. It was certainly a slow burn and felt a bit too long for me. It had a great premise, the 3 wives receiving a letter from a woman claiming that their husbands had raped her mother many years ago. The 3 women were all very different and the way that they handled this news was interesting.
I just don't feel that this was the right book for me. I have read very mixed reviews on it so I think alot of it is a personal choice.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy of this book to read.
This is more a character driven story than a thriller in my mind. It was certainly a slow burn and felt a bit too long for me. It had a great premise, the 3 wives receiving a letter from a woman claiming that their husbands had raped her mother many years ago. The 3 women were all very different and the way that they handled this news was interesting.
I just don't feel that this was the right book for me. I have read very mixed reviews on it so I think alot of it is a personal choice.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy of this book to read.
August 19, 2022
Maybe it’s late. Maybe I’m dumb. Maybe this isn’t the same brain that got a 34 on the ACT….but I didn’t understand this stories ending. Is Holly still alive? Did she write the letters with the intention of getting her art in the club? I’m lost and it isn’t clarified that Holly is whose narrative is ending the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2022
Story of 3 women: Jess, 46, markets artists, married to Max. Priyanka, 35, teacher, married to Andy. Stephanie, 50, receptionist for dentist, married to Dan. All three receive a letter from a dying woman saying that their husbands raped her mother almost 30 years ago and she is the product. These women don't know each other and didn't know that their husbands knew each other. Some happy marriages are in jeopardy.
I was drawn to the cover. Be prepared for slowness as the story reveals the women's thoughts and interactions with each other. I think I understand the ending but, as always, I prefer for an author to spell it out for me.
I was drawn to the cover. Be prepared for slowness as the story reveals the women's thoughts and interactions with each other. I think I understand the ending but, as always, I prefer for an author to spell it out for me.
February 19, 2022
This from the very first few pages had me hooked in completely and I could not put this down. A great mix of women and a shocking letter sends 3 relationships in a spin. I felt an urgent need to try and work this all out.
Loved the different points of view, gave an all round perspective. I found it interesting how each woman handled it differently and what developed from there.
Edge of seat reading, twisty, surprise.
An addictive read.
Loved the different points of view, gave an all round perspective. I found it interesting how each woman handled it differently and what developed from there.
Edge of seat reading, twisty, surprise.
An addictive read.
May 20, 2022
As of now that synopsis is short and sweet and I honestly assumed based off of that this one would be a thriller and I was wrong. Which is fine, this is waaaaayyyy deeper than a thriller and has huge triggers for sexual assault, so if you’re looking for a lighter domestic suspense this isn’t it. But if you’re looking for a deeper read that is emotionally charged this may be for you.
There is a lot about this one that is uncomfortable and hard to read but it’s also incredibly powerful at the same time. It’s very much a slow burn and sometimes it was frustratingly so but I believe the payoff was worth it in the end. Each of the three women who narrates is very well developed and grappling with so many varying issues. I could empathize with each one at some point and can see this leading to some great discussions if chosen as a book club read. If you can handle difficult subject matter and know this is fiction with some suspense and disturbing themes this was a solid and thought provoking read.
There is a lot about this one that is uncomfortable and hard to read but it’s also incredibly powerful at the same time. It’s very much a slow burn and sometimes it was frustratingly so but I believe the payoff was worth it in the end. Each of the three women who narrates is very well developed and grappling with so many varying issues. I could empathize with each one at some point and can see this leading to some great discussions if chosen as a book club read. If you can handle difficult subject matter and know this is fiction with some suspense and disturbing themes this was a solid and thought provoking read.
September 17, 2022
I didn't get the ending 🥺
May 18, 2022
Wholy Calamity Cakes! 😳😯🤯😳🤯
What the actual fluckin' fluff?! Skidding skittles! First! Don't let the length of this book fool you! It goes by so quickly & sucks you in like a vacuum on the hunt for dust bunnies! I'm absolutely gobsmacked by this debut novel of a domestic suspenseful thriller that I was dying to get my paws on for the ARC and it was everything & more I hoped for! The three character views made this so much more juicy, delish & outright lush.
Mყ 𝐒ყɴ𝐨ρѕιѕ: Three woman, married with their own family's, live in Bath, UK. Jess, Priyanka, and Stephanie don't know each other, have never met, but their lives are about to turn upside down and inside out. They each get an identical letter from a woman none of them have ever known, saying that she's about to die and claiming that each of their husbands were involved in the sexual assault of her mother. Jess sets things in motion by contacting and setting up a meeting with the other two women. But as they start to investigate and uncover the past, will they be able to handle what they're about to face with a truth that none of them ever expected or could foresee?
Wow! Wooooow! Wholy heavenly heck! That ending was insane! The whole story was intense. The layers are like a trifle you're dying to dig into and experience and I gobbled it up! The last half really amps up even more somehow and the thrilling suspense will have you suspended from daring to put it down! Tink, come give your mother cuddles... STAT!
🔴 Trigger Warnings: Sexual Assault; Violence
Thank you to NetGalley & BooksGoSocial for this ARC.
Release Date: June 7, 2022
𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭: Strong 4.5 / 5 Lily's! 🪷
What the actual fluckin' fluff?! Skidding skittles! First! Don't let the length of this book fool you! It goes by so quickly & sucks you in like a vacuum on the hunt for dust bunnies! I'm absolutely gobsmacked by this debut novel of a domestic suspenseful thriller that I was dying to get my paws on for the ARC and it was everything & more I hoped for! The three character views made this so much more juicy, delish & outright lush.
Mყ 𝐒ყɴ𝐨ρѕιѕ: Three woman, married with their own family's, live in Bath, UK. Jess, Priyanka, and Stephanie don't know each other, have never met, but their lives are about to turn upside down and inside out. They each get an identical letter from a woman none of them have ever known, saying that she's about to die and claiming that each of their husbands were involved in the sexual assault of her mother. Jess sets things in motion by contacting and setting up a meeting with the other two women. But as they start to investigate and uncover the past, will they be able to handle what they're about to face with a truth that none of them ever expected or could foresee?
Wow! Wooooow! Wholy heavenly heck! That ending was insane! The whole story was intense. The layers are like a trifle you're dying to dig into and experience and I gobbled it up! The last half really amps up even more somehow and the thrilling suspense will have you suspended from daring to put it down! Tink, come give your mother cuddles... STAT!
🔴 Trigger Warnings: Sexual Assault; Violence
Thank you to NetGalley & BooksGoSocial for this ARC.
Release Date: June 7, 2022
𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭: Strong 4.5 / 5 Lily's! 🪷
June 10, 2022
Cate Ray offers up a page turner with Good Husbands and asks the question do we ever really know the people closest to us.
Three women face the prospect of losing their ingrained trust in their Husbands when a letter arrives accusing the men of a terrible deed from the past. The story follows the three women as they come together in a search for the truth.
The strength of Good Husbands comes from this relationship, the characters are engaging and could be any one of us. There are plenty of twists along the way and this is a classic and well told version of a familiar central theme.
A good read.
Three women face the prospect of losing their ingrained trust in their Husbands when a letter arrives accusing the men of a terrible deed from the past. The story follows the three women as they come together in a search for the truth.
The strength of Good Husbands comes from this relationship, the characters are engaging and could be any one of us. There are plenty of twists along the way and this is a classic and well told version of a familiar central theme.
A good read.
May 30, 2022
Good Husbands
By Cate Ray
Release date 06/07/2022
Jessica, Stephanie, and Priyanka are complete strangers, but they have one thing in common: more than two decades ago, unbeknownst to them, their husbands committed a sexual assault. Or was it something else—a night of drunken regrets, just a horrible misunderstanding? It was a secret that remained buried for years.
Some of these ladies are on board to seek the truth, and one takes a minute to come around. The undeniable bond between the three is there right away, and they’re forever bonded over the heinous acts of their husbands. These three women uncover a stockpile of lies that have been hidden for 20 years. And OMG, THE END. LAWD 🫣🫣🫣🫣
Jaw on the floor. Follow these women on a thrilling ride of uncovering the past and forming their futures. It’s so so so good. Just. Wow. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 S҉҉T҉҉A҉҉R҉҉S҉҉
#bookstagram #booklover #bookworm #bookstagrammer #reading #bookish #bookaddict #booknerd #bibliophile #instabook #booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #booksbooksbooks #bookshelf #booklove #bookreview #bookcommunity #bookblogger #instabooks #booklovers #reader #igreads #bookrecommendations
#netgalley #netgalleyreader #cateray #goodhusbands #parkrowbooks
By Cate Ray
Release date 06/07/2022
Jessica, Stephanie, and Priyanka are complete strangers, but they have one thing in common: more than two decades ago, unbeknownst to them, their husbands committed a sexual assault. Or was it something else—a night of drunken regrets, just a horrible misunderstanding? It was a secret that remained buried for years.
Some of these ladies are on board to seek the truth, and one takes a minute to come around. The undeniable bond between the three is there right away, and they’re forever bonded over the heinous acts of their husbands. These three women uncover a stockpile of lies that have been hidden for 20 years. And OMG, THE END. LAWD 🫣🫣🫣🫣
Jaw on the floor. Follow these women on a thrilling ride of uncovering the past and forming their futures. It’s so so so good. Just. Wow. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 S҉҉T҉҉A҉҉R҉҉S҉҉
#bookstagram #booklover #bookworm #bookstagrammer #reading #bookish #bookaddict #booknerd #bibliophile #instabook #booksofinstagram #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #booksbooksbooks #bookshelf #booklove #bookreview #bookcommunity #bookblogger #instabooks #booklovers #reader #igreads #bookrecommendations
#netgalley #netgalleyreader #cateray #goodhusbands #parkrowbooks
May 23, 2023
Updated May 23, 2023: I originally gave this a one-star out of anger. Thank you to everyone who explained the ending of this book to me. Being a woman of my word, I've happily updated my rating to a five! However, I've left my original review in case someone felt the way I did at the end.
I was really liking this book... I thought the letter about a rape decades ago tying the women and their husbands together was a great one. I liked the tension felt by the wives and their POVs. I liked how the kids were made important, the women's jobs played a role too, and, I even liked their lifestyles. I was digging every aspect of the story... Until the end.
WTF! I am so angry I could just hit something. I want to hit something until it feels as bad as I do (I get you Sally Field). The part I understood irritated me and the part I didn't... well I still don't. So someone reach out to me here and explain the ending to me because it is the first time I've read a mystery (not a thriller really) that I couldn't find spoilers online for. I'm guessing not many people got the ending either???
Once someone explains the ending to me, I might change my review.
I was really liking this book... I thought the letter about a rape decades ago tying the women and their husbands together was a great one. I liked the tension felt by the wives and their POVs. I liked how the kids were made important, the women's jobs played a role too, and, I even liked their lifestyles. I was digging every aspect of the story... Until the end.
WTF! I am so angry I could just hit something. I want to hit something until it feels as bad as I do (I get you Sally Field). The part I understood irritated me and the part I didn't... well I still don't. So someone reach out to me here and explain the ending to me because it is the first time I've read a mystery (not a thriller really) that I couldn't find spoilers online for. I'm guessing not many people got the ending either???
Once someone explains the ending to me, I might change my review.
June 25, 2022
What woud you do if you received a random letter from a girl claiming her mother was raped by your husband over 20 years ago... and he wasn't alone. Do you disrupt your own life for something that could possibly not even be true? Or do you have to look into this because it woud be a unforgivable act from someone you *thought* you knew and now see differently? What a predicament.
This book touches on the subject of sexual assault, what that can mean across the board, the consequences that ripped throughout the lives of the victims and assaulters and those around them. It was interesting to get to know the very different three women - Jess, Stephanie and Priyanka. The author does a great job in showing how differently people can react to disastrous news and how doing the "right" thing can take on so many layers. Is the ripple effect worth a 'they said, she said' situation? OH how the moral compass turns.
If this were to be appropriately categorized in the "thriller" genre then it would be a very light domestic suspense mystery-ish one that reads more like a contemporary novel of did they or didn't they. I appreciate the themes laden within but at times I felt like I was getting statistical facts that didn't feel seamless within the storyline.
I was intrugued from the get go but felt the middle got a bit muddled down, losing my interest a bit. Was the ending worth it? The mind boggles. While someone is a "very clever girl", it most certainly isn't me because I'm not sure I got it, tbh. Entertaining? Sure. Worth it? I'm torn straight down the middle.
This book touches on the subject of sexual assault, what that can mean across the board, the consequences that ripped throughout the lives of the victims and assaulters and those around them. It was interesting to get to know the very different three women - Jess, Stephanie and Priyanka. The author does a great job in showing how differently people can react to disastrous news and how doing the "right" thing can take on so many layers. Is the ripple effect worth a 'they said, she said' situation? OH how the moral compass turns.
If this were to be appropriately categorized in the "thriller" genre then it would be a very light domestic suspense mystery-ish one that reads more like a contemporary novel of did they or didn't they. I appreciate the themes laden within but at times I felt like I was getting statistical facts that didn't feel seamless within the storyline.
I was intrugued from the get go but felt the middle got a bit muddled down, losing my interest a bit. Was the ending worth it? The mind boggles. While someone is a "very clever girl", it most certainly isn't me because I'm not sure I got it, tbh. Entertaining? Sure. Worth it? I'm torn straight down the middle.
June 6, 2022
Thank you to the publisher, Park Row, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Good Husbands in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The Gist
I began reading Good Husbands not knowing anything about it and was hooked by the time I had finished reading the dedication.
Seems a little quick and impulsive, I know, but the start was very promising. If it had only stayed that way.
Let me explain.
Just a little trigger warning. The story deals with sexual assault, specifically rape, overdosing, alcoholism and dementia.
The Details
Three women. One letter. A copy of it sent to each, accusing their husbands of sexual assault.
We read the story alternatively from each woman’s point of view, which is very interesting, since it shows how different personalities would act under such circumstances.
The reader gets a glimpse into the thought process and emotional development that occurs while the three women work through the possibility of having married a potential rapist.
The story begins highly intriguing and really captured my attention, but it began to fall a little flat towards the halfway point.
At that point I was hoping the story is setting up for a great twist or enlightening explanation that could make the ending really pop. Sadly, the ending was so abrupt and far fetched that I still kind of feel cheated.
I also had some trouble with the formatting, which inevitably influenced my reading experience. There are abrupt paragraph breaks and at times it is very difficult to figure out who is talking during the dialogue sections.
The ending should have also been better formatted, if not elaborated on a great deal more.
The plot itself was good. It just gets quite a bit lost towards the end.
The Verdict
Overall, I enjoyed the first half of the book a lot more than the rest. It’s unfortunate that it kind of lost its way at the end.
At the moment I’m torn, if I would suggest it.
March 25, 2022
Bath, England strangers Priyanka, Stephanie, and Jess each receive the same letter telling them that their husbands together raped a woman decades before, with the letter writer, Holly, claiming to be the daughter of one of the men. The women think that confronting their husbands will be the end of the story. (That’s if they decide it’s true and if they can bring themselves to tell the men that they know about the rape, neither of which they find a given at all.) The husbands, too, think their troubles are over. They’re still members of the same upmarket social club where Holly says the crime took place, and still lead fine lives, unlike the victim and her daughter, with the mother now dead and the daughter near death from alcoholism.
As the women meet one another and move from emotional paralysis to action, we’re brought to what seems like a definitive showdown. But it’s not the end at all. Ray’s U.S. debut reminds readers, through her storytelling and her portrayal of the women’s undulating emotions, that sometimes what we think will be the end might not even be the most significant part of the story; these women make their own ending, and it includes a startling closing twist.
The sadness of lives destroyed is palpable here, but so is the healing force of friendship, not to mention determination. Psychological thriller fans who enjoy strong women characters should add this to their reading plans.—Henrietta Verma
For more reviews of new crime fiction, subscribe to our weekly newsletter, First Clue: https://www.getrevue.co/profile/First...
As the women meet one another and move from emotional paralysis to action, we’re brought to what seems like a definitive showdown. But it’s not the end at all. Ray’s U.S. debut reminds readers, through her storytelling and her portrayal of the women’s undulating emotions, that sometimes what we think will be the end might not even be the most significant part of the story; these women make their own ending, and it includes a startling closing twist.
The sadness of lives destroyed is palpable here, but so is the healing force of friendship, not to mention determination. Psychological thriller fans who enjoy strong women characters should add this to their reading plans.—Henrietta Verma
For more reviews of new crime fiction, subscribe to our weekly newsletter, First Clue: https://www.getrevue.co/profile/First...
July 7, 2022
I really did not enjoy this book. I got to the end and felt as if I wasted my time. None of the characters were likable to me. Especially Jess, who claims to be all about telling the truth, but lies when it serves her. I was also angry when I found out Holly lied. It brought the whole story into question. I didn’t like that the novel didn’t offer a chance for second chances or redemption for some of the characters. And I didn’t like that at the end, the author seems to think that hard work never results in anything, that you have to know someone to give you a chance to become wealthy or famous or elite. Maybe that’s true in some cases, but definitely not all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2022
This was my first book by Ray and I could not put it down very well executed. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I am so happy I got the chance to read it. I love adding new authors to my shelf.
July 11, 2022
The blurb of this book really appealed to me and when I was arranging the blogtour on behalf of Random Things Tours I couldn’t resist popping myself down for a spot.
Three women, complete strangers, all in different stages of their lives, married and seemingly happy receive a letter on the same day, accusing their husbands of rape over twenty years ago. These three women have to face up to some horrifying truths and look very closely at their husbands and their lives right now and ask themselves are they willing to give up everything they have for the justice of a young woman they don’t know?
How well do you really know your husband? Should his past remain in his past? Can you live with yourself knowing he may have been involved in a violent sexual attack in his youth? Who are the other men accused of this crime? These are only some of the questions Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka are facing and once the women meet up, their lives are now entangled and nothing will ever be the same again.
Initially I thought this would be more of a thriller, however it veers towards dark domestic drama and some of the scenes are harrowing and upsetting to read, so please be aware that the main subject matter centres around a young girls rape and the consequences on those around her.
Overall, although an uncomfortable read, I did enjoy (not the right word) following Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka’s journey and seeing how each women dealt with their emotions and feelings throughout the story. My only issue was the ending which I didn’t fully understand and felt it detracted from the important issues of the story.
Three women, complete strangers, all in different stages of their lives, married and seemingly happy receive a letter on the same day, accusing their husbands of rape over twenty years ago. These three women have to face up to some horrifying truths and look very closely at their husbands and their lives right now and ask themselves are they willing to give up everything they have for the justice of a young woman they don’t know?
How well do you really know your husband? Should his past remain in his past? Can you live with yourself knowing he may have been involved in a violent sexual attack in his youth? Who are the other men accused of this crime? These are only some of the questions Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka are facing and once the women meet up, their lives are now entangled and nothing will ever be the same again.
Initially I thought this would be more of a thriller, however it veers towards dark domestic drama and some of the scenes are harrowing and upsetting to read, so please be aware that the main subject matter centres around a young girls rape and the consequences on those around her.
Overall, although an uncomfortable read, I did enjoy (not the right word) following Jessica, Stephanie and Priyanka’s journey and seeing how each women dealt with their emotions and feelings throughout the story. My only issue was the ending which I didn’t fully understand and felt it detracted from the important issues of the story.
June 11, 2022
What will Stephanie, Jess and Priyanka do when each of them get the exact same letter? What are the contents of this letter? Each of their husbands are being accused of gang raping someone three decades previously. In fact, apparently one of them got the woman pregnant at the time. How horrific, especially when the truth of the matter must be made clear, even if it means upsetting three happy marriages.
Readers get multiple points in this book. Many questions come up, like the validity of the accusation. Also, what must be considered is what will the wives do. Values come into play. Time isn't really a factor because if indeed the husbands committed this horrific crime then just must be found.
Quite naturally, trigger warnings for sexual assault and even violence are appropriate. Also, each of the wives have different stories so a feeling of connection to each of them was easy to be had. Considering their feelings, their choices, and most importantly, the woman who was assaulted, makes it easy to fit oneself into this book. Feelings of anger come up. Feelings of sadness come up. Thirty years can seem like one day when it comes to a woman who suffered such a terrible experience.
Good Husbands was a compelling read from the beginning to the shocking ending. This is most definitely a book that makes one think.
Many thanks to Park Row Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/YUDjTJYXoYM
Readers get multiple points in this book. Many questions come up, like the validity of the accusation. Also, what must be considered is what will the wives do. Values come into play. Time isn't really a factor because if indeed the husbands committed this horrific crime then just must be found.
Quite naturally, trigger warnings for sexual assault and even violence are appropriate. Also, each of the wives have different stories so a feeling of connection to each of them was easy to be had. Considering their feelings, their choices, and most importantly, the woman who was assaulted, makes it easy to fit oneself into this book. Feelings of anger come up. Feelings of sadness come up. Thirty years can seem like one day when it comes to a woman who suffered such a terrible experience.
Good Husbands was a compelling read from the beginning to the shocking ending. This is most definitely a book that makes one think.
Many thanks to Park Row Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/YUDjTJYXoYM
May 12, 2023
Ugh, I'm actually super disappointed with how this book turned out. When I first started it, I loved how it sucked you in right away, but the ending literally ruined it all 😒. I also found that there was just so much going on the entire time and it kind of distracted from the main story line. I'm really annoyed with how this book ended and honestly, I don't even understand it, like did I miss something?
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