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The Widow
My husband was not a monster. No matter what they say…
The day my husband, Michael, stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police, my world fell apart. He was devoted to me and our six-year-old daughter. But they’d connected him to the disappearance of a young mother from our tiny village.
Now I stand at Michael’s funeral, clutching my little girl’s hand, with tears in my eyes as I insist to all our friends that he died an innocent man. Yet the questions have started, and nothing I say will stop them digging for the truth.
But none of them can read the secrets in my heart, or know about the phone I found hidden in his toolbox…
I’m determined that my daughter will not remember her father as a monster. I will erase any hint of wrongdoing in this house whatever the cost.
Because to keep my daughter safe, the last thing I need is for people to start looking at me…
The day my husband, Michael, stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police, my world fell apart. He was devoted to me and our six-year-old daughter. But they’d connected him to the disappearance of a young mother from our tiny village.
Now I stand at Michael’s funeral, clutching my little girl’s hand, with tears in my eyes as I insist to all our friends that he died an innocent man. Yet the questions have started, and nothing I say will stop them digging for the truth.
But none of them can read the secrets in my heart, or know about the phone I found hidden in his toolbox…
I’m determined that my daughter will not remember her father as a monster. I will erase any hint of wrongdoing in this house whatever the cost.
Because to keep my daughter safe, the last thing I need is for people to start looking at me…
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2021
3353 people are currently reading
5687 people want to read
About the author
K.L. Slater
47 books4,767 followersKim is the number one bestselling author of sixteen psychological crime thrillers. She has sold over two million copies of her books worldwide. She has also written four Carnegie-nominated Young Adult novels as Kim Slater for Macmillan Children’s Books. Kim has an MA in Creative Writing and lives with her husband in a small Nottinghamshire village.
Publishers: Bookouture, Sphere, Grand Central, Audible
Agent: Camilla Bolton at Darley Anderson
Author website: www.KLSlaterAuthor.com
Twitter: @KimLSlater
Facebook: KL Slater Author
Instagram: KLSlaterAuthor
Publishers: Bookouture, Sphere, Grand Central, Audible
Agent: Camilla Bolton at Darley Anderson
Author website: www.KLSlaterAuthor.com
Twitter: @KimLSlater
Facebook: KL Slater Author
Instagram: KLSlaterAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,037 reviews
November 15, 2021
EXCERPT: Helena stared at the row of cottages as they approached their vehicle. They were all empty now, the only movement being yellow police tape that fluttered in the light breeze, the breadth of fields serving as a barren backdrop to their damp, dark stone and shadowy vacant windows.
She shivered and got into the passenger seat of the car. She was a pragmatic woman, who unswervingly based all her theories and assumptions on fact. But she'd bet a year's salary that something bad had happened in this place.
She felt it in the chill on her face, in the eerie silence of the land.
She could swear she felt it in her very bones.
ABOUT 'THE WIDOW': My husband was not a monster. No matter what they say…
The day my husband, Michael, stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police, my world fell apart. He was devoted to me and our six-year-old daughter. But they’d connected him to the disappearance of a young mother from our tiny village.
Now I stand at Michael’s funeral, clutching my little girl’s hand, with tears in my eyes as I insist to all our friends that he died an innocent man. Yet the questions have started, and nothing I say will stop them digging for the truth.
But none of them can read the secrets in my heart, or know about the phone I found hidden in his toolbox…
I’m determined that my daughter will not remember her father as a monster. I will erase any hint of wrongdoing in this house whatever the cost.
Because to keep my daughter safe, the last thing I need is for people to start looking at me…
MY THOUGHTS: This was a fast read for me, as Slater's books mostly are. The Widow is a fast-paced story centred around two families in the small village of Lynwick, Nottinghamshire.
I love books set in small places where people mostly know or know of one another. Closed, insular communities where people care for one another. Until something goes wrong...
Full of twists and turns, lies and secrets, The Widow gripped me from the outset. Twenty-four years earlier, Donna's sister Melody went missing and was never seen again. Two years ago a Polish man went missing from the area, never to be seen nor heard from again. And now a woman from the village, a new resident, Suzy, has disappeared leaving behind her small son. Suspicion falls on Kate's husband Michael, and the villagers send Kate to Coventry.
I had no idea where Slater was taking this story. Every time I formed a theory, Slater turned it on its head - very adroitly, too! And I certainly never envisaged the outcome!
There are some wonderful characters in The Widow, all beautifully crafted and realistic. The pick of them for me were the son of the missing woman, Aleks, solitary and wise beyond his years, and the elderly Mrs Wadebridge. I don't think that I would ever play poker against her!
There are a couple of places where the story goes off the boil a little, but it wasn't enough for me to lose interest. Overall an intense and cleverly plotted read with plenty of surprises.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#TheWidow #NetGalley
I: @KLSlaterAuthor @bookouture
T: @KimLSlater @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #crime #domesticdram #mystery
THE AUTHOR: For many years, Kim sent her work out to literary agents and collected an impressive stack of rejection slips. At the age of 40 she went back to Nottingham Trent University and now has an MA in Creative Writing.
Before graduating in 2012, she gained literary agent representation and a book deal. As Kim says, ‘it was a fairytale … at the end of a very long road!’
Kim is a full-time writer and lives in Nottinghamshire with her husband.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Widow by K.L. Slater for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
She shivered and got into the passenger seat of the car. She was a pragmatic woman, who unswervingly based all her theories and assumptions on fact. But she'd bet a year's salary that something bad had happened in this place.
She felt it in the chill on her face, in the eerie silence of the land.
She could swear she felt it in her very bones.
ABOUT 'THE WIDOW': My husband was not a monster. No matter what they say…
The day my husband, Michael, stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police, my world fell apart. He was devoted to me and our six-year-old daughter. But they’d connected him to the disappearance of a young mother from our tiny village.
Now I stand at Michael’s funeral, clutching my little girl’s hand, with tears in my eyes as I insist to all our friends that he died an innocent man. Yet the questions have started, and nothing I say will stop them digging for the truth.
But none of them can read the secrets in my heart, or know about the phone I found hidden in his toolbox…
I’m determined that my daughter will not remember her father as a monster. I will erase any hint of wrongdoing in this house whatever the cost.
Because to keep my daughter safe, the last thing I need is for people to start looking at me…
MY THOUGHTS: This was a fast read for me, as Slater's books mostly are. The Widow is a fast-paced story centred around two families in the small village of Lynwick, Nottinghamshire.
I love books set in small places where people mostly know or know of one another. Closed, insular communities where people care for one another. Until something goes wrong...
Full of twists and turns, lies and secrets, The Widow gripped me from the outset. Twenty-four years earlier, Donna's sister Melody went missing and was never seen again. Two years ago a Polish man went missing from the area, never to be seen nor heard from again. And now a woman from the village, a new resident, Suzy, has disappeared leaving behind her small son. Suspicion falls on Kate's husband Michael, and the villagers send Kate to Coventry.
I had no idea where Slater was taking this story. Every time I formed a theory, Slater turned it on its head - very adroitly, too! And I certainly never envisaged the outcome!
There are some wonderful characters in The Widow, all beautifully crafted and realistic. The pick of them for me were the son of the missing woman, Aleks, solitary and wise beyond his years, and the elderly Mrs Wadebridge. I don't think that I would ever play poker against her!
There are a couple of places where the story goes off the boil a little, but it wasn't enough for me to lose interest. Overall an intense and cleverly plotted read with plenty of surprises.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#TheWidow #NetGalley
I: @KLSlaterAuthor @bookouture
T: @KimLSlater @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #crime #domesticdram #mystery
THE AUTHOR: For many years, Kim sent her work out to literary agents and collected an impressive stack of rejection slips. At the age of 40 she went back to Nottingham Trent University and now has an MA in Creative Writing.
Before graduating in 2012, she gained literary agent representation and a book deal. As Kim says, ‘it was a fairytale … at the end of a very long road!’
Kim is a full-time writer and lives in Nottinghamshire with her husband.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Widow by K.L. Slater for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
December 15, 2022
3.5⭐
I've always wanted to try this author and this title is about to leave Audible Plus so I didn't want to miss it.
The Widow hooked me in from the very beginning. The story follows Kate Shaw a part-time teacher and a mother to six-year-old Tansy. Her husband, Michael works at a large Wadebridge estate and died when he was hit by a lorry after being questioned by the local police about a missing beautiful Polish woman named Susie who also works at the estate. Rumors in the little village of Lynwick are that he was involved and committed suicide.
Kate always believed she married a good man and a loving father. Does she really know the real Michael?
Argh, how did I not see it? 🙈
This was a gripping read and fast pace. After a while, I couldn't stand Susie maybe because of the audio so I knock it down half a star, but this is a riveting mystery! You can bet that I'll be reading more from this author.
Note: The blurb for this audiobook edition belongs to a different book. not this book
I've always wanted to try this author and this title is about to leave Audible Plus so I didn't want to miss it.
The Widow hooked me in from the very beginning. The story follows Kate Shaw a part-time teacher and a mother to six-year-old Tansy. Her husband, Michael works at a large Wadebridge estate and died when he was hit by a lorry after being questioned by the local police about a missing beautiful Polish woman named Susie who also works at the estate. Rumors in the little village of Lynwick are that he was involved and committed suicide.
Kate always believed she married a good man and a loving father. Does she really know the real Michael?
Argh, how did I not see it? 🙈
This was a gripping read and fast pace. After a while, I couldn't stand Susie maybe because of the audio so I knock it down half a star, but this is a riveting mystery! You can bet that I'll be reading more from this author.
Note: The blurb for this audiobook edition belongs to a different book. not this book
February 21, 2022
I am a huge fan of author KL Slater. When I saw the freebee from Audible of “The Widow” I took it! Slater did not disappoint. Narrator Lucy Price-Lewis was perfect.
Kate and Michael Shaw live in a tiny village with their young daughter Tansy. The narrator, Kate, becomes a sleuth when a local woman goes missing and her husband becomes a prime suspect.
At first, I thought I knew who the culprit was. I was a bit disappointed in Slater because I usually don’t figure out her thrillers. But, I thought it was interesting and I wanted to see how it played out. I enjoy Slater’s writing and character development. Well, I was wrong wrong wrong. I’m so happy that Slater duped me.
Slater fans will enjoy this and if you have not had the opportunity to read/hear her work, this is a good one!
Kate and Michael Shaw live in a tiny village with their young daughter Tansy. The narrator, Kate, becomes a sleuth when a local woman goes missing and her husband becomes a prime suspect.
At first, I thought I knew who the culprit was. I was a bit disappointed in Slater because I usually don’t figure out her thrillers. But, I thought it was interesting and I wanted to see how it played out. I enjoy Slater’s writing and character development. Well, I was wrong wrong wrong. I’m so happy that Slater duped me.
Slater fans will enjoy this and if you have not had the opportunity to read/hear her work, this is a good one!
November 16, 2021
3.5 stars
Kate Shaw surveys the police activity on the Wadebridge Estate, Lynwick in Nottinghamshire where her husband Michael has worked for the last twenty years. Does it connect to several missing persons inquiries, the most recent being Suzy Baros who has recently moved to Lynwick from Poland with her son Aleks? The story is told from several perspectives including Kate’s.
KL Slater always writes a book with many twists and turns and this is no exception although this isn’t her best book in my opinion. The community of Lynwick is portrayed extremely well with all the petty rivalries, suspicions and tensions especially when there is an attractive newcomer like Suzy. There are several relationships under the spotlight here and these are conveyed well. There’s a growing and deepening mystery surrounding several characters which adds to the growing interest and intrigue. Towards the end there are some surprising revelations which make sense of strange, out of character behaviour where it’s clear there is a lot of strain.
However, I find the start to be convoluted, it’s clunky and disjointed and there’s some extraneous detail which although it gives the reader a clear sense of place it doesn’t add much to the plot. The pacing is uneven, we get some juicy nuggets and then it goes off the boil.
Overall, I enjoy it but I don’t love it like I do with other books by this author. It’s a decent read but I guess I’ve grown to expect a more pacy, exciting read from this talented writer.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Kate Shaw surveys the police activity on the Wadebridge Estate, Lynwick in Nottinghamshire where her husband Michael has worked for the last twenty years. Does it connect to several missing persons inquiries, the most recent being Suzy Baros who has recently moved to Lynwick from Poland with her son Aleks? The story is told from several perspectives including Kate’s.
KL Slater always writes a book with many twists and turns and this is no exception although this isn’t her best book in my opinion. The community of Lynwick is portrayed extremely well with all the petty rivalries, suspicions and tensions especially when there is an attractive newcomer like Suzy. There are several relationships under the spotlight here and these are conveyed well. There’s a growing and deepening mystery surrounding several characters which adds to the growing interest and intrigue. Towards the end there are some surprising revelations which make sense of strange, out of character behaviour where it’s clear there is a lot of strain.
However, I find the start to be convoluted, it’s clunky and disjointed and there’s some extraneous detail which although it gives the reader a clear sense of place it doesn’t add much to the plot. The pacing is uneven, we get some juicy nuggets and then it goes off the boil.
Overall, I enjoy it but I don’t love it like I do with other books by this author. It’s a decent read but I guess I’ve grown to expect a more pacy, exciting read from this talented writer.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bookouture for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
January 17, 2022
Go into this blind. It’s such a good place to be, automatic “click” to purchase, get a nice milky drink, some treats, snuggle with a blanket and cushion, open the book and…..breath, begin to read.
This authors books never cease to thrill me, delight me and make me think.
The back story to this and the unravelling and reveal of all this was exceptional. Was it only me who gulped and she’d a tear?
I’m not adding much to the story as there’s lots in the blurb and reviews, I just need you to trust me and read it.
This authors books never cease to thrill me, delight me and make me think.
The back story to this and the unravelling and reveal of all this was exceptional. Was it only me who gulped and she’d a tear?
I’m not adding much to the story as there’s lots in the blurb and reviews, I just need you to trust me and read it.
November 10, 2021
Kate Shaw's whole world changes when her husband, Michael stepped in front of a Lorry after being questioned by the police about a missing local woman. Now being tried in the court of public opinion, Kate insists that her husband was innocent. That he had nothing to do with the missing woman's disappearance.
Thankfully, Kate has her close friend, Donna to lean on when times get tough, but Donna is dealing with her own issues as well.
With everyone wanting to know the truth, jumping to conclusions, and laying blame, this book gets juicer and juicer.
This was another enjoyable read by K. L. Slater. It proved to be a fast read for me and I had my theories which changed throughout the book. This book is full of lies, secrets, twists and turns which helped it move along at a nice pace and keep me invested in the story. A couple of things took me by surprise which I loved.
Another solid read by Slater and I look forward to her next book!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Thankfully, Kate has her close friend, Donna to lean on when times get tough, but Donna is dealing with her own issues as well.
With everyone wanting to know the truth, jumping to conclusions, and laying blame, this book gets juicer and juicer.
This was another enjoyable read by K. L. Slater. It proved to be a fast read for me and I had my theories which changed throughout the book. This book is full of lies, secrets, twists and turns which helped it move along at a nice pace and keep me invested in the story. A couple of things took me by surprise which I loved.
Another solid read by Slater and I look forward to her next book!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
January 8, 2022
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed listening to the audio version.
It's told in multiple POVs, it has an intriguing plot, interesting characters and it's well-paced. The story is complex, but I found it very easy to follow. It unfolds gradually, there are some hints throughout that can help with guessing, and what I appreciated the most is that none of the twists come out of nowhere and everything clicks into place. I liked how the story ended, though I did find it a bit sad overall.
I'd like to include one detail about Michael's character, or rather the writing, that could be a trigger warning for some.
There are two different editions of the audiobook on Goodreads, and I've noticed that one of them has the wrong blurb – the one that was published in December.
It's told in multiple POVs, it has an intriguing plot, interesting characters and it's well-paced. The story is complex, but I found it very easy to follow. It unfolds gradually, there are some hints throughout that can help with guessing, and what I appreciated the most is that none of the twists come out of nowhere and everything clicks into place. I liked how the story ended, though I did find it a bit sad overall.
I'd like to include one detail about Michael's character, or rather the writing, that could be a trigger warning for some.
There are two different editions of the audiobook on Goodreads, and I've noticed that one of them has the wrong blurb – the one that was published in December.
October 25, 2021
This is the fourth book of K L Slater that I read and have come to like her writing. As with the other books I read, this has a good story, reasonable pace and twists. The twists are not pretentious / force fitted and I generally like that.
Kate and Michael are happily married, though not exactly rich, but are content. Michael manages property for Irene, now in her 70s, after her husband passed away. Kate is a part-time teacher at school. They have a young daughter Tansy. Donna, Paul and their daughter Ellie are their close family friends. Donna’s younger sister disappeared many years back, and her memory continues to haunt her. Donna & Paul have had challenges in their marriage but the worst seems to be over. A Polish immigrant Suzy and her son Aleks are new to the village. Suzy also works on Irene’s property. All of a sudden Suzy disappears, and there are insinuations that Michael might know something. Soon after, Michael dies in a truck accident; was the stress too much for him? Did he really have something to do with Suzy’s disappearance?
The pace is decent, though it does slack a little in the middle. I loved Kate’s character and how she copes with all that is thrown at her. It all comes together quite well at the end, though the last sections could have been better. This is a good story and well worth a read.
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture & the author for a free electronic review copy.
Kate and Michael are happily married, though not exactly rich, but are content. Michael manages property for Irene, now in her 70s, after her husband passed away. Kate is a part-time teacher at school. They have a young daughter Tansy. Donna, Paul and their daughter Ellie are their close family friends. Donna’s younger sister disappeared many years back, and her memory continues to haunt her. Donna & Paul have had challenges in their marriage but the worst seems to be over. A Polish immigrant Suzy and her son Aleks are new to the village. Suzy also works on Irene’s property. All of a sudden Suzy disappears, and there are insinuations that Michael might know something. Soon after, Michael dies in a truck accident; was the stress too much for him? Did he really have something to do with Suzy’s disappearance?
The pace is decent, though it does slack a little in the middle. I loved Kate’s character and how she copes with all that is thrown at her. It all comes together quite well at the end, though the last sections could have been better. This is a good story and well worth a read.
Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture & the author for a free electronic review copy.
January 10, 2022
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 4 Stars
Another riveting story by K.L. Slater.
Story - 4 Stars
Another riveting story by K.L. Slater.
October 18, 2021
This was my weekend read and OMG I got nothing else done. I absolutely LOVED The Widow and was engrossed from the very first page. There are some brilliantly drawn characters that simply jump off the page. As ever the author led me down a twisty, turny road of intrigue and suspense and spat me out right at the end. The writing was impeccable and every single chapter worked to construct a web of lies and deceit that drew me ever further into the story. Awesome characters, brilliant storyline, tense pacing and an ending that left me breathless. Highly recommended and a huge 5 stars from me.
October 27, 2021
I've made a promise to myself last night when I closed my book: no more domestic thrillers for the next few years. I'm afraid I'm just not the right reader for this genre. Give me an intelligent, capable and strong heroine any time, and I will just avoid any book with titles like "his secret", "her revenge" or "the breakup".
First, what is very noticeable is the fact that K.L. Slater is a good writer, there is no question about that. She clearly can compose a story, give individual voices to her characters and write fluent chapters. The storyline that starts in Poland goes back and forth in time and is written is such a way that you can easily follow the thread. Kudos for that.
What I didn't like were the characters, none of which are likeable at all, they are all selfish and rather obnoxious to say the least. Three woman with three very different lifestyles and yet none can provide an encouraging environment for their child. The Insta Christmas picture of homely bliss seems more important than a real warm nest. Also the plot is as thin as tobacco paper. It is much drama but very little substance, much ado about nothing really. If any of the characters would have had just a moment of good judgment, they would have gone to the police to send the cops in the right directions, and nothing would have happened.
The biggest issue I had with one of the plot twist is when Kate finds out who the direct cause is for her husband's death. That person just says "Sorry I didn't mean to", and Kate's response is basically "Let's have a cup of tea and talk about it". Really? If I found out the culprit responsible for my beloved husband's death I would go for a full suckerpunch first.
Anyway, just as I said it is a well written book, just not my cup of tea.
A sincere thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
First, what is very noticeable is the fact that K.L. Slater is a good writer, there is no question about that. She clearly can compose a story, give individual voices to her characters and write fluent chapters. The storyline that starts in Poland goes back and forth in time and is written is such a way that you can easily follow the thread. Kudos for that.
What I didn't like were the characters, none of which are likeable at all, they are all selfish and rather obnoxious to say the least. Three woman with three very different lifestyles and yet none can provide an encouraging environment for their child. The Insta Christmas picture of homely bliss seems more important than a real warm nest. Also the plot is as thin as tobacco paper. It is much drama but very little substance, much ado about nothing really. If any of the characters would have had just a moment of good judgment, they would have gone to the police to send the cops in the right directions, and nothing would have happened.
The biggest issue I had with one of the plot twist is when Kate finds out who the direct cause is for her husband's death. That person just says "Sorry I didn't mean to", and Kate's response is basically "Let's have a cup of tea and talk about it". Really? If I found out the culprit responsible for my beloved husband's death I would go for a full suckerpunch first.
Anyway, just as I said it is a well written book, just not my cup of tea.
A sincere thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2021
I am a K.L. Slater fan; I have read The Marriage as well as The Apartment and they were 5 star great!
When I picked up “The Marriage” I thought “Hmmm the cover sure is given a lot away”.
So knew when I saw this cover revealed that something bad was caused by the husband; I knew there was a lot more to it.
I am a big psychological thriller fan~ so I am sure these four things are going to happen:
> Be suspicious of everyone!
> Expect twists and twist and turns!
> The most obvious person didn’t do it!
> There will be many secrets!
Story alternates time period with several characters ~ our main characters and as well as chapters about Jakub Jasinski in Poland. I wasn’t real interested in these chapters but knew he surely had a connection to Suzy since she is also from Poland.
Our main characters;
Kate and Michael Shaw are happily married and have a six year old daughter Tansy.
They are friends with Paul and Donna. In fact, Donna and Kate have been friends for a long time and were even pregnant at the same time both having daughters. They often take care of the little girls Tansy and Ellie to let the parents go on a ‘Date Night’. Michael is aware that Paul is a womanizer. Donna is suspicious as well. Paul is handsome and very charismatic. Being flirtatious is something natural and easy for him.
Suzy Baros is a young beautiful single mother with a young son, Aleka who is the same age as Tansy and Ellie. Suzy seems to be escaping a troubled past as she states she is looking for a fresh start in the UK.
She is currently working as Irene Wadebridge’s Home Helper.
Michael Shaw is the property and land manager on the Wadebridge Estate. He first worked as Amos Wadebridge’s assistant. After he died Irene hired Michael to stay on and offered a generous salary.
Michael’s father Gus and Amos had been close business associates and now Irene is close to Michael young family.
Suzy goes missing and has everyone baffled as to where she went.
Everyone in the village is questioned regarding Suzy’s disappearance.
Michael is questioned again by the police as go they got a message from an anonymous caller who states if you are interested in finding Jakub Jasinski, ask Michael Shaw at Wadebridge.
When Michael is interviewed once again, it appears the interview didn’t go well as afterwards something terrible happens to him; and things turn upside down for Kate.
Awww Kim Slater does NOT disappoint. This was another GREAT read!
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookoutre for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for November 12, 2021.
When I picked up “The Marriage” I thought “Hmmm the cover sure is given a lot away”.
So knew when I saw this cover revealed that something bad was caused by the husband; I knew there was a lot more to it.
I am a big psychological thriller fan~ so I am sure these four things are going to happen:
> Be suspicious of everyone!
> Expect twists and twist and turns!
> The most obvious person didn’t do it!
> There will be many secrets!
Story alternates time period with several characters ~ our main characters and as well as chapters about Jakub Jasinski in Poland. I wasn’t real interested in these chapters but knew he surely had a connection to Suzy since she is also from Poland.
Our main characters;
Kate and Michael Shaw are happily married and have a six year old daughter Tansy.
They are friends with Paul and Donna. In fact, Donna and Kate have been friends for a long time and were even pregnant at the same time both having daughters. They often take care of the little girls Tansy and Ellie to let the parents go on a ‘Date Night’. Michael is aware that Paul is a womanizer. Donna is suspicious as well. Paul is handsome and very charismatic. Being flirtatious is something natural and easy for him.
Suzy Baros is a young beautiful single mother with a young son, Aleka who is the same age as Tansy and Ellie. Suzy seems to be escaping a troubled past as she states she is looking for a fresh start in the UK.
She is currently working as Irene Wadebridge’s Home Helper.
Michael Shaw is the property and land manager on the Wadebridge Estate. He first worked as Amos Wadebridge’s assistant. After he died Irene hired Michael to stay on and offered a generous salary.
Michael’s father Gus and Amos had been close business associates and now Irene is close to Michael young family.
Suzy goes missing and has everyone baffled as to where she went.
Everyone in the village is questioned regarding Suzy’s disappearance.
Michael is questioned again by the police as go they got a message from an anonymous caller who states if you are interested in finding Jakub Jasinski, ask Michael Shaw at Wadebridge.
When Michael is interviewed once again, it appears the interview didn’t go well as afterwards something terrible happens to him; and things turn upside down for Kate.
Awww Kim Slater does NOT disappoint. This was another GREAT read!
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookoutre for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for November 12, 2021.
November 15, 2021
Kate Shaw is the widow whose husband, Michael, appears to commit suicide by throwing himself into the path of an oncoming lorry, while under investigation for murder. Kate finds it hard to believe that her loving, hard-working husband could be responsible for the murder of missing Suzy Baros, a young Polish woman recently arrived in their village of Lynwick with her young son. However, all the evidence is pointing his way and Kate knows Michael has been keeping secrets from her.
Author K.L. Slater has written another intense suspense novel with plenty of her trademark twists and sudden revelations. The novel centres around relationships - the good, the bad and the ugly. The characters are well drawn, especially Kate and Michael, Michael’s boss Mrs Wadebridge and Suzy’s son Aleks, bewildered and just wanting his mother back. Although the pace is a bit jerky, speeding up and then slowing down again, it was a novel that kept me wondering what was really going on. The final revelations were unexpected and although I felt not all were quite in character for one of the people involved, it was overall an enjoyable, fast read with plenty of unexpected twists.
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
Author K.L. Slater has written another intense suspense novel with plenty of her trademark twists and sudden revelations. The novel centres around relationships - the good, the bad and the ugly. The characters are well drawn, especially Kate and Michael, Michael’s boss Mrs Wadebridge and Suzy’s son Aleks, bewildered and just wanting his mother back. Although the pace is a bit jerky, speeding up and then slowing down again, it was a novel that kept me wondering what was really going on. The final revelations were unexpected and although I felt not all were quite in character for one of the people involved, it was overall an enjoyable, fast read with plenty of unexpected twists.
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
October 28, 2021
I received a free e-copy of The Widow by K.L. Slater from NetGalley for my honest review.
I always look forward to anything from K.L. Slater. This was another great one. From page one I was drawn into this fast paced psychological thriller. Twists, turns and thrills up to the very end. Fantastic plot with absolutely amazing characters.
I always look forward to anything from K.L. Slater. This was another great one. From page one I was drawn into this fast paced psychological thriller. Twists, turns and thrills up to the very end. Fantastic plot with absolutely amazing characters.
November 3, 2021
I can hardly believe am saying this but this is my 15th Kim Slater book I have read and reviewed, it’s a no brainer I must enjoy them 😀 and this book is no different
To me ‘The Widow’ is more than a psychological thriller with elements of a ‘Whodunit’ and an all round proper ‘mystery needs solving’ book,all of this combined made for a really intriguing tale, so much so I wanted at times to rush on to further chapters to find out what had happened and solve the many puzzles that were constantly appearing ( I was good though and didn’t )
Some great characters to get involved with including a snack loving Policeman and a crafty arthritic pensioner mixed well with the village gossips ( who turned very nasty ) also we meet some Polish characters and it was interesting to read a little bit of their culture and how they view things before arriving in the UK versus the reality of some of their situations
This book has everything you could possibly want from a great read and I enjoyed every page right up to and including the exciting well done finish
Kim Slater writes a tense and gripping novel again and I probably always say this but this was one of my favourites to date!
10/10
5 Stars
To me ‘The Widow’ is more than a psychological thriller with elements of a ‘Whodunit’ and an all round proper ‘mystery needs solving’ book,all of this combined made for a really intriguing tale, so much so I wanted at times to rush on to further chapters to find out what had happened and solve the many puzzles that were constantly appearing ( I was good though and didn’t )
Some great characters to get involved with including a snack loving Policeman and a crafty arthritic pensioner mixed well with the village gossips ( who turned very nasty ) also we meet some Polish characters and it was interesting to read a little bit of their culture and how they view things before arriving in the UK versus the reality of some of their situations
This book has everything you could possibly want from a great read and I enjoyed every page right up to and including the exciting well done finish
Kim Slater writes a tense and gripping novel again and I probably always say this but this was one of my favourites to date!
10/10
5 Stars
September 14, 2022
So the synopsis really does not match the book here on Goodreads, so that is weird.
However, Kate is living a perfect life and within just a few short days life is far from perfect. A missing woman, her husband is keeping way too many secrets, and now the town is looking at her with suspicion. There is so much in this audiobook and I have really enjoyed listening to it. Started it on a road trip, with a bit of a listen on a short flight and had to finish so listened to it on my lunch break until I finished it. Definitely enjoyed guessing who was the bad guy with its plot twists and engaging characters. Tons of secrets and relationships with layers of trust and mistrust. Enjoyed this one!
However, Kate is living a perfect life and within just a few short days life is far from perfect. A missing woman, her husband is keeping way too many secrets, and now the town is looking at her with suspicion. There is so much in this audiobook and I have really enjoyed listening to it. Started it on a road trip, with a bit of a listen on a short flight and had to finish so listened to it on my lunch break until I finished it. Definitely enjoyed guessing who was the bad guy with its plot twists and engaging characters. Tons of secrets and relationships with layers of trust and mistrust. Enjoyed this one!
April 30, 2022
Audiobook - 5 stars
Story - 3.5 stars
Welp! There goes my plans of packing everything and moving to a small quiet town.😁🥲
It was entertaining and I ended up liking it alot.
Story - 3.5 stars
Welp! There goes my plans of packing everything and moving to a small quiet town.😁🥲
It was entertaining and I ended up liking it alot.
January 10, 2022
“The Widow” is so good! Intense, clever and heartbreaking! It really makes you realise that you can never really know a person no matter how long you think you know them.
The characters were all very well-written. I liked the pace of the story, the flashbacks and the different narrations. All my questions were answered and explained carefully. Although some parts left a hole in my heart because of their tragic nature, I was smiling through to the ending.
I have enjoyed the two days spent reading this, truly an awesome experience. I hope everyone could get a chance to read this book. Totally worth it.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy. Appreciate it so much.
The characters were all very well-written. I liked the pace of the story, the flashbacks and the different narrations. All my questions were answered and explained carefully. Although some parts left a hole in my heart because of their tragic nature, I was smiling through to the ending.
I have enjoyed the two days spent reading this, truly an awesome experience. I hope everyone could get a chance to read this book. Totally worth it.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the advanced copy. Appreciate it so much.
November 23, 2022
Absolutely gripping!
The day Donna's husband, Michael, stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police, her world fell apart. He was devoted to her and their six-year-old daughter (Tansy), but police connected him to the disappearance of a young mother from their tiny village.
Now Donna stands at Michael’s funeral, clutching her little girl’s hand, with tears in her eyes and insists to all her friends that he died an innocent man. Yet the questions have started, and nothing she says will stop them digging for the truth.
Donna is determined that her daughter will not remember her father as a monster. She will erase any hint of wrongdoing, whatever the cost.
Story: Five 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Narration: Five 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
👏 👏
The day Donna's husband, Michael, stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police, her world fell apart. He was devoted to her and their six-year-old daughter (Tansy), but police connected him to the disappearance of a young mother from their tiny village.
Now Donna stands at Michael’s funeral, clutching her little girl’s hand, with tears in her eyes and insists to all her friends that he died an innocent man. Yet the questions have started, and nothing she says will stop them digging for the truth.
Donna is determined that her daughter will not remember her father as a monster. She will erase any hint of wrongdoing, whatever the cost.
Story: Five 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Narration: Five 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
👏 👏
February 19, 2022
This is 2.5 stars because it is a good read/mystery overall but I did have problems with it personally.
It's a domestic drama with a multifaceted mystery. If you like this genre then go for it because it is engaging & well put together, but it just wasn't for me as listed below...
Feel free to avoid this part as slightly spoilery and well, negative, and frankly a bit more ranty than is probably necessary...😂
So, domestic drama/mysteries... I always like the mystery part but not the domestic drama part.
I am finding the dissection of other people's domestic relationships increasingly tedious.
Why can people not accept that there is no such thing as perfection and your partner will have flaws...as will you and you need to recognise and learn to live with them...or not if you can't, there is a choice...and a thing called honesty.
And the lack of communication in these situations winds me right up! I'm sorry but bad things will happen and you can't protect your loved ones by lying/covering up these things...it only makes it 100 times worse. The lies hurt people most so don't do it!
The small-minded bitchiness of the people in the village also really annoyed me. I know this is a sad reflection of real people but surely not EVERYONE is an arsehole??!
Oh the lies and treachery!
There was a lot of eye-rolling and sighing whilst reading this book. I cannot penalise the author because this is how (some) people behave...but I'm not sure I can read about it anymore as I'm reaching the end of my tether.
Just too many instances where I'm shouting 'JUST CALL THE POLICE NOW!' or 'STOP BEING A MORON PLEASE!'
My frustration levels were through the roof!
Sorry. I will avoid this genre for a little while to let the temper fires cool.
It's a domestic drama with a multifaceted mystery. If you like this genre then go for it because it is engaging & well put together, but it just wasn't for me as listed below...
Feel free to avoid this part as slightly spoilery and well, negative, and frankly a bit more ranty than is probably necessary...😂
So, domestic drama/mysteries... I always like the mystery part but not the domestic drama part.
I am finding the dissection of other people's domestic relationships increasingly tedious.
Why can people not accept that there is no such thing as perfection and your partner will have flaws...as will you and you need to recognise and learn to live with them...or not if you can't, there is a choice...and a thing called honesty.
And the lack of communication in these situations winds me right up! I'm sorry but bad things will happen and you can't protect your loved ones by lying/covering up these things...it only makes it 100 times worse. The lies hurt people most so don't do it!
The small-minded bitchiness of the people in the village also really annoyed me. I know this is a sad reflection of real people but surely not EVERYONE is an arsehole??!
Oh the lies and treachery!
There was a lot of eye-rolling and sighing whilst reading this book. I cannot penalise the author because this is how (some) people behave...but I'm not sure I can read about it anymore as I'm reaching the end of my tether.
Just too many instances where I'm shouting 'JUST CALL THE POLICE NOW!' or 'STOP BEING A MORON PLEASE!'
My frustration levels were through the roof!
Sorry. I will avoid this genre for a little while to let the temper fires cool.
April 5, 2022
Kate and Michael Shaw have been happily married for several years. Michael works as a property manager and Kate is a teacher's aide at a local elementary school. They have a six-year-old daughter named Tansy. A young mother and her son move into a home on one of the properties that Michael manages. One day the mother disappears without a trace. The police question everyone who knows this woman and saw her shortly before going missing. Suddenly everyone is looking at Michael, questioning if he had something to do with the missing woman. When Kate catches him in a lie, she begins to wonder how well she knows her husband.
This story started out slow. I had a hard time getting through the first couple of hours, waiting for something to happen. Finally, the pace picked up and the story got interesting. There were a couple good twists in this one that I didn't see coming. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Lucy Price-Lewis. She does a fantastic job with the voices. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
This story started out slow. I had a hard time getting through the first couple of hours, waiting for something to happen. Finally, the pace picked up and the story got interesting. There were a couple good twists in this one that I didn't see coming. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Lucy Price-Lewis. She does a fantastic job with the voices. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
October 20, 2021
K.L. Slater is back on top form, an addictive thriller that had me hooked from start to finish. Fast paced, great characters and a well written plot make this an entertaining read.
Kate Shaw’s world crumbled when her husband Michael stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police. Michael was spoken to by the police concerning the disappearance of a young woman named Suzy Baros.
Following Michael’s death Kate feels compelled to seek the truth and prove her husbands innocence, not only for her but their six year old daughter.
This novel is typical of K.L. Slater’s writing, fast paced, addictive and full of twists and turns.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Kate Shaw’s world crumbled when her husband Michael stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by the police. Michael was spoken to by the police concerning the disappearance of a young woman named Suzy Baros.
Following Michael’s death Kate feels compelled to seek the truth and prove her husbands innocence, not only for her but their six year old daughter.
This novel is typical of K.L. Slater’s writing, fast paced, addictive and full of twists and turns.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2024
It was captivating from beginning to the end!
January 9, 2022
THE WIDOW is the sixteenth psychological crime thrillers by bestselling author K.L. Slater, a gripping psychological thriller from the author of the number one bestseller The Marriage. This novel ticked all the boxes for me: a gripping plot, well-developed characters, and a fast-paced gripping read. Another winner!
Her Novels Include:
Safe With Me (2016)
Blink (2017)
Liar (2017)
The Mistake (2017)
The Visitor (2018)
The Secret (2018)
Closer (2018)
Finding Grace (2019)
The Silent Ones (2019)
Single (2019)
The Apartment (2020)
Little Whispers (2020)
The Girl She Wanted (2020)
The Marriage (2021)
The Evidence (2021)
The Widow (2021)
Kate and Michael and their 6-year-old daughter, Tansy; are best friends with Donna and Paul and their 6-year-old daughter, Ellie. Michael worked as the property and land manager for major landowner Irene up in Wadebridge. A polish immigrant, Suzy Baros, a single mom shows up in town with her son Aleks…and then soon disappears…
Everyone is convinced that Michael had something to do with Suzy’s disappearance.
Then one day, Michael was hit by a lorry, and sadly passed away in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Now at 34, Kate was a widow.
Michael's death was ruled a suicide, but why would he take his own life?
The local police, led by Detective Inspector Helena Price, through their investigation, find that Michael and Suzy had many secrets.
Kate is determined to find out the truth, and prove her husband’s innocence, so her young daughter won’t remember her dad as some kind of monster. But Suzy is still missing. What is going on? I had to keep reading to find out the truth.
This is a well-written, compelling thriller. The plot is complex with stand-out characters. This book was full of twists and turns and kept me guessing until the very end, which I absolutely love in a book. The ending was quite surprising, and totally unexpected.
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
Her Novels Include:
Safe With Me (2016)
Blink (2017)
Liar (2017)
The Mistake (2017)
The Visitor (2018)
The Secret (2018)
Closer (2018)
Finding Grace (2019)
The Silent Ones (2019)
Single (2019)
The Apartment (2020)
Little Whispers (2020)
The Girl She Wanted (2020)
The Marriage (2021)
The Evidence (2021)
The Widow (2021)
Kate and Michael and their 6-year-old daughter, Tansy; are best friends with Donna and Paul and their 6-year-old daughter, Ellie. Michael worked as the property and land manager for major landowner Irene up in Wadebridge. A polish immigrant, Suzy Baros, a single mom shows up in town with her son Aleks…and then soon disappears…
Everyone is convinced that Michael had something to do with Suzy’s disappearance.
Then one day, Michael was hit by a lorry, and sadly passed away in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Now at 34, Kate was a widow.
Michael's death was ruled a suicide, but why would he take his own life?
The local police, led by Detective Inspector Helena Price, through their investigation, find that Michael and Suzy had many secrets.
Kate is determined to find out the truth, and prove her husband’s innocence, so her young daughter won’t remember her dad as some kind of monster. But Suzy is still missing. What is going on? I had to keep reading to find out the truth.
This is a well-written, compelling thriller. The plot is complex with stand-out characters. This book was full of twists and turns and kept me guessing until the very end, which I absolutely love in a book. The ending was quite surprising, and totally unexpected.
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
March 5, 2023
Review coming soon.
November 21, 2021
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a pretty good mystery/thriller set in a tiny village in northern England. Kate Shaw's husband Michael stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by police in the disappearance of a young mother that lived on the estate he managed. To the outside world, it appears Michael committed suicide rather than be caught for the crime. But Kate knows her husband and doesn't believe he's done anything wrong.
But then questions arise about Michael's activities before the crime, and evidence pointing at his guilt have Kate starting to question everything she's ever known about her life. Trying to cope with the events, and shield her six-year-old daughter from what's going on, Kate has to decide if she will hide incriminating evidence against Michael that she finds, or turn it over to the police.
This book has a good pace and isn't overly bloated with irrelevant side issues or red herrings. I did get a little tired of Kate's constant inner dialogue going over the facts again and again, but that's probably just my bias against first person points of view. I'm not a fan.
The author does a great job of building tension and while parts of the book were predictable, others were not and that was refreshing. I don't think I would put this book in the same category of Gone Girl or The Girl on the Train, but it was a good book that held my attention.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Bookouture. All opinions are my own.
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a pretty good mystery/thriller set in a tiny village in northern England. Kate Shaw's husband Michael stepped in front of a lorry after being questioned by police in the disappearance of a young mother that lived on the estate he managed. To the outside world, it appears Michael committed suicide rather than be caught for the crime. But Kate knows her husband and doesn't believe he's done anything wrong.
But then questions arise about Michael's activities before the crime, and evidence pointing at his guilt have Kate starting to question everything she's ever known about her life. Trying to cope with the events, and shield her six-year-old daughter from what's going on, Kate has to decide if she will hide incriminating evidence against Michael that she finds, or turn it over to the police.
This book has a good pace and isn't overly bloated with irrelevant side issues or red herrings. I did get a little tired of Kate's constant inner dialogue going over the facts again and again, but that's probably just my bias against first person points of view. I'm not a fan.
The author does a great job of building tension and while parts of the book were predictable, others were not and that was refreshing. I don't think I would put this book in the same category of Gone Girl or The Girl on the Train, but it was a good book that held my attention.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Bookouture. All opinions are my own.
November 21, 2021
The Widow is a compelling psychological thriller that will keep you guessing and turning the page. The characters are well written, and the mystery is complex, with many twists and turns. The heartbreak of a young widow trying to protect her daughter and possibly clear her late husband is so real. The children, Tansy and Aleks, are captivating, and such a big part of the story. The author does a great job with character development and world building. The points of view change seamlessly between the various characters and the police department, and it does not disrupt the story. The reader will find themselves rooting for the widow as she tries to solve the mystery her husband left her. The final revelations in this multifaceted tale left me praising the author for a job well done. Fans of thrillers will be completely captivated by this enthralling mystery.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
December 5, 2021
I've long been a fan of Kim's work and am always eagerly anticipating her next. With psychological and domestic suspense entwined with a bit of a "whodunnit", THE WIDOW is a little bit different with a real mystery at the heart of this thriller. An intriguing tale, as readers we are left with wanting to know more as Kim skillfully dangles clues in our quest for the truth.
The story opens with an excavation of a field on the Wadebridge estate as Kate Shaw surveys the police activity in front of her. Behind her reporters bustle for her attention, calling out to her, but she ignores them. On the public footpath that cuts through the woods beside the estate, villagers gather and watch the foray whilst Kate can feel the weight of their icy glares in her direction. They blame her, she knows. Her husband Michael had worked this estate for over twenty years and as land and property manager knew the estate inside out. He was certainly in a position to dispose of anything or anyone under a blanket of darkness while the rest of the village slept. And now there are questions relating to the disappearance of a Polish woman with whom Michael had had daily contact. Kate knows the village believes she knows something. But what? She only knows that she has lost the love of her life to a tragic accident leaving her a widow and her 6 year old daughter fatherless.
Kate, Michael and their daughter Tansy live in the close-knit village of Lynwick in Nottinghamshire. And up until recently, their lives there had been happy. But then Suzy Baros moves into the village with her young son Aleks, taking up residence in one of the cottages on the Wadebridge estate thanks to Irene Wadebridge, owner and matriarch of the estate. Kate tries to befriend Suzy but the young Polish woman is skittish and appearingly afraid of her own shadow.
Things are not helped with Kate's best friend Donna's husband's roving eye is caught by the beautiful woman. Paul Thatcher is known for his infidelities and try and Kate might, Donna wouldn't have a cross word said about him, taking him back after each slight. But this time Paul is intent on gaining Suzy's attentions.
But then at the early Christmas lights event, Suzy Baros disappears leaving her young son scared and distraught. Kate immediately takes him in placating the young boy with the hope of finding his mother. But Suzy is not found...and then the police come knocking wanting to ask Michael some questions about the missing woman. Kate at once becomes suspicious when Michael lies to the police about knowing another missing person from Poland and she begins to wonder why. But her ponderings are cut short when she receives the devastating news that Michael has been killed after stepping out in front of a lorry on his way home from being questioned by the police. Was it an accident? Or was it suicide?
And then Kate receives a troubling letter. The villagers want her out. They want her to come clean about what she knows about her husband and then to leave their pristine village. Kate has seen this type of bullying tactic before by the village, hiding behind the facade of a letter or a legality or whatever, but in the end the result is always the same. The villagers get what they want...and ultimately win.
But what has Kate got to hide? Michael was innocent, surely? But the fact that Suzy was not the first person to go missing in Lynwick brings the one common denominator between them to the forefront of the police investigation. Michael. But that's just coincidence, surely? Or is it? Whatever the case may be, Kate finds herself the focus of blame by those she had once laughed and chatted with; those she had passed in the street and shared a smile; some of those she had called friends. Now she is ostracised and the only one on her side is Donna.
THE WIDOW is a thrilling tale as Kim takes us on a journey from Poland to Nottinghamshire through the eyes of various narrators, though primarily Kate. It certainly is a different story to those offered to us previously but still an enjoyable tale. There were a couple of unanswered questions by the end, most notably the discovery of two sets of remains found nearby but without an explanation as to why as neither story interconnected. The ending didn't pack that usual K.L. Slater punch, but it was still satisfactory.
I had my usual theories throughout, some of them often changing, but by the end I had guessed correctly...even the twist that was thrown in seemingly out of left field. But I couldn't be hoodwinked this time as I knew to look where others failed to...and pondered on my own suspicions. THE WIDOW is still full of secrets, lies, and twists to keep it moving along at a steady pace throughout. It is still a good solid read by Kim that was engaging and enjoyable.
The story is dominated with strong female characters, though not too strong. I liked the investigating officer, DI Helena Price and her offsider DS Brewster, who brought the whodunnit aspect to the forefront. I liked Kate but I did wonder why she was quick to defend Michael when she also found evidence that should have left her questioning him. Donna's denial of her husband's infidelities and disregard of her drove me mad. How could she not see her husband's blatant roving eye? Everyone else could and he shamelessly did it front of her!
Overall, THE WIDOW is an enjoyable and intriguing tale that will have you turning the pages in anticipation of the truth. What happened to Suzy Baros? To Jakub Jasinski? And is the disappearance of a teenage girl twenty three years ago connected? A thrilling read that does not disappoint even if some loose ends were left dangling by the end.
I would like to thank #KLSlater, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheWidow in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
The story opens with an excavation of a field on the Wadebridge estate as Kate Shaw surveys the police activity in front of her. Behind her reporters bustle for her attention, calling out to her, but she ignores them. On the public footpath that cuts through the woods beside the estate, villagers gather and watch the foray whilst Kate can feel the weight of their icy glares in her direction. They blame her, she knows. Her husband Michael had worked this estate for over twenty years and as land and property manager knew the estate inside out. He was certainly in a position to dispose of anything or anyone under a blanket of darkness while the rest of the village slept. And now there are questions relating to the disappearance of a Polish woman with whom Michael had had daily contact. Kate knows the village believes she knows something. But what? She only knows that she has lost the love of her life to a tragic accident leaving her a widow and her 6 year old daughter fatherless.
Kate, Michael and their daughter Tansy live in the close-knit village of Lynwick in Nottinghamshire. And up until recently, their lives there had been happy. But then Suzy Baros moves into the village with her young son Aleks, taking up residence in one of the cottages on the Wadebridge estate thanks to Irene Wadebridge, owner and matriarch of the estate. Kate tries to befriend Suzy but the young Polish woman is skittish and appearingly afraid of her own shadow.
Things are not helped with Kate's best friend Donna's husband's roving eye is caught by the beautiful woman. Paul Thatcher is known for his infidelities and try and Kate might, Donna wouldn't have a cross word said about him, taking him back after each slight. But this time Paul is intent on gaining Suzy's attentions.
But then at the early Christmas lights event, Suzy Baros disappears leaving her young son scared and distraught. Kate immediately takes him in placating the young boy with the hope of finding his mother. But Suzy is not found...and then the police come knocking wanting to ask Michael some questions about the missing woman. Kate at once becomes suspicious when Michael lies to the police about knowing another missing person from Poland and she begins to wonder why. But her ponderings are cut short when she receives the devastating news that Michael has been killed after stepping out in front of a lorry on his way home from being questioned by the police. Was it an accident? Or was it suicide?
And then Kate receives a troubling letter. The villagers want her out. They want her to come clean about what she knows about her husband and then to leave their pristine village. Kate has seen this type of bullying tactic before by the village, hiding behind the facade of a letter or a legality or whatever, but in the end the result is always the same. The villagers get what they want...and ultimately win.
But what has Kate got to hide? Michael was innocent, surely? But the fact that Suzy was not the first person to go missing in Lynwick brings the one common denominator between them to the forefront of the police investigation. Michael. But that's just coincidence, surely? Or is it? Whatever the case may be, Kate finds herself the focus of blame by those she had once laughed and chatted with; those she had passed in the street and shared a smile; some of those she had called friends. Now she is ostracised and the only one on her side is Donna.
THE WIDOW is a thrilling tale as Kim takes us on a journey from Poland to Nottinghamshire through the eyes of various narrators, though primarily Kate. It certainly is a different story to those offered to us previously but still an enjoyable tale. There were a couple of unanswered questions by the end, most notably the discovery of two sets of remains found nearby but without an explanation as to why as neither story interconnected. The ending didn't pack that usual K.L. Slater punch, but it was still satisfactory.
I had my usual theories throughout, some of them often changing, but by the end I had guessed correctly...even the twist that was thrown in seemingly out of left field. But I couldn't be hoodwinked this time as I knew to look where others failed to...and pondered on my own suspicions. THE WIDOW is still full of secrets, lies, and twists to keep it moving along at a steady pace throughout. It is still a good solid read by Kim that was engaging and enjoyable.
The story is dominated with strong female characters, though not too strong. I liked the investigating officer, DI Helena Price and her offsider DS Brewster, who brought the whodunnit aspect to the forefront. I liked Kate but I did wonder why she was quick to defend Michael when she also found evidence that should have left her questioning him. Donna's denial of her husband's infidelities and disregard of her drove me mad. How could she not see her husband's blatant roving eye? Everyone else could and he shamelessly did it front of her!
Overall, THE WIDOW is an enjoyable and intriguing tale that will have you turning the pages in anticipation of the truth. What happened to Suzy Baros? To Jakub Jasinski? And is the disappearance of a teenage girl twenty three years ago connected? A thrilling read that does not disappoint even if some loose ends were left dangling by the end.
I would like to thank #KLSlater, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #TheWidow in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
November 2, 2021
Another great thriller by K. L. Slater. Lots of twists and turns to keep one guessing till they get to the end. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. To be published November 2021.
October 20, 2021
A psychological thriller with some twist and turns that had me hooked from the first page.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
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