What do you think?
Rate this book
Custody
Young, brilliant, and engaged to the perfect guy, Kelly Macleod feels ready to begin her new appointment as a Massachusetts judge. With all her dreams coming true, Kelly never envisions what might go wrong...
Then a chance meeting with a man at a cemetery awakens an unexpected passion in Kelly. Agreeing not to reveal their real names to each other, Kelly and the stranger begin an affair. But Kelly's lover is really Randall Madison, a doctor on the brink of divorcing his wife, Anne, a well-known political candidate who will stop at nothing to gain custody of their daughter. In the courtroom, as well as the bedroom, his life will unexpectedly dovetail with Kelly's. And as a secret from Kelly's own past re-emerges, she must make a life-changing decision, as a judge-and as a woman.
A spellbinding novel about betrayal and desire, Custody looks at today's families, children caught between warring parents, and the price men and women pay for love....
Then a chance meeting with a man at a cemetery awakens an unexpected passion in Kelly. Agreeing not to reveal their real names to each other, Kelly and the stranger begin an affair. But Kelly's lover is really Randall Madison, a doctor on the brink of divorcing his wife, Anne, a well-known political candidate who will stop at nothing to gain custody of their daughter. In the courtroom, as well as the bedroom, his life will unexpectedly dovetail with Kelly's. And as a secret from Kelly's own past re-emerges, she must make a life-changing decision, as a judge-and as a woman.
A spellbinding novel about betrayal and desire, Custody looks at today's families, children caught between warring parents, and the price men and women pay for love....
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2001
320 people are currently reading
1092 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Thayer
51 books4,039 followersNancy Thayer has published 35 novels, including Family Reunion and Secrets in Summer. She has lived on Nantucket Island year-round for 38 years with her husband Charley Walters. They have two children and five grandchildren.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
May 22, 2015
I've been enjoying reading Nancy Thayer's books. This is not a favorite for me. I found it to be very predictable, full of spelling errors, and too many loose ends.
September 8, 2020
This book is nearly 20 years old.
A doctor, early 40s, is divorcing his wife and this puts their 12 year old daughter in the middle. The wife has OCD to the point that she will not allow her daughter to spend the night with friends, is terrified of dirt etc.. Since OCD makes lives miserable I am not judging this woman on that. What Thayer did not do was allow any relief for the child ever. Even at the end of the book. The mother could barely manage sex and by the time the story began her husband had had lovers for years.
He meets a lawyer, who had just been appointed judge of family court, and they had an instant connection even though she was engaged.
There were too many loose ends. The doctor slept with another woman even though he and the h had made a physical and an emotional connection and the h blew it off. He admitted that he was questioning whether she would be the kind of step-mother his daughter needed but changed his mind when the h said all her traveling was to train with other judges and it had been temporary.
The h found she was the egg donor for the daughter, her half sister moved in with her, the mother got physical custody, everyone smiled and the book ended. Waaaay too many loose ends.
A doctor, early 40s, is divorcing his wife and this puts their 12 year old daughter in the middle. The wife has OCD to the point that she will not allow her daughter to spend the night with friends, is terrified of dirt etc.. Since OCD makes lives miserable I am not judging this woman on that. What Thayer did not do was allow any relief for the child ever. Even at the end of the book. The mother could barely manage sex and by the time the story began her husband had had lovers for years.
He meets a lawyer, who had just been appointed judge of family court, and they had an instant connection even though she was engaged.
There were too many loose ends. The doctor slept with another woman even though he and the h had made a physical and an emotional connection and the h blew it off. He admitted that he was questioning whether she would be the kind of step-mother his daughter needed but changed his mind when the h said all her traveling was to train with other judges and it had been temporary.
The h found she was the egg donor for the daughter, her half sister moved in with her, the mother got physical custody, everyone smiled and the book ended. Waaaay too many loose ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2020
Coincidences, Irony
I love so many things about this story. It paints a portrait of female empowerment that is outstanding. It also shows some of the bad that comes with divorce. I was disappointed that the court appointed psychologist recommended joint custody. In my opinion, Anne's , the mom, treatment of Tessa was a form of abuse. I also found it a bit too coincidental that Randall and Kelly meet over parental graves in a cemetery, become mutually attracted, and it ends up with Kelly being the female surrogate for Randall's sperm that creates Tessa. Still, it was a very enjoyable read.
I love so many things about this story. It paints a portrait of female empowerment that is outstanding. It also shows some of the bad that comes with divorce. I was disappointed that the court appointed psychologist recommended joint custody. In my opinion, Anne's , the mom, treatment of Tessa was a form of abuse. I also found it a bit too coincidental that Randall and Kelly meet over parental graves in a cemetery, become mutually attracted, and it ends up with Kelly being the female surrogate for Randall's sperm that creates Tessa. Still, it was a very enjoyable read.
October 13, 2016
"Custody," by Nancy Thayer is an older novel of Thayer's, which has been on my bookshelf for close to 15 years, but hadn't been read. It's always a treat for me to find I own a book by a beloved author, which I never got around to reading. "Custody" was totally predictable. I can deal with that. The book I am currently reading is predictable, but plausible. "Custody," had a plot that was so implausible, that it was nearly impossible to fathom things were as they were, and yet, I enjoyed the book! Thayer writes well. Her older books were meatier than her books of late, which tend to be more about women and beach vacations. I am simplifying when I say that, but if you are a fan, you will know what I mean. Not so with "Custody." This one could take place anywhere, as much of it took place in a graveyard and a courtroom. A young female judge, engaged to someone who really isn't right for her, visits her mother's grave every Sunday. It's important to note that she was shunned by her mother for years after making a controversial choice, and after her mother basically abandoned her in the name of love (for a louse). Every Sunday, there is also a man in the graveyard, a handsome man, mourning his own mother's death. They meet. They talk. They don't share names or anything about their careers. (He is a doctor, separated, with a little girl.) His marriage is over. He is fighting for custody of his daughter. You know where this is going, don't you? Beautiful judge, handsome doctor, custody battle.....but there is a twist that is even more ridiculous. I had that one figured out really early on, as well, BUT I STILL really liked the book! It's a "puzzlement" (to quote The King and I). For the most part, I was satisfied with the ending, though I would have liked to have seen a different custody decision. It's worth reading, but won't go on my "best books ever" list.
February 17, 2014
A bit disappointed with what happens with the mother considering who will need theraphy, but a good story.
August 15, 2015
That's the end? Really?
I cannot believe I was dropped like that. Never getting to wind down with the end we all expected. So let down. Not sure I'll continue with this author.
I cannot believe I was dropped like that. Never getting to wind down with the end we all expected. So let down. Not sure I'll continue with this author.
March 10, 2022
Custody was my first book by Nancy Thayer. It is a poignant, touching and thought provoking family drama. There are well drawn, realistic and interesting character descriptions. The setting is the Cambridge Massachusetts area where newly appointed Judge Kelly Macleod is excited to begin her career in family court.
The financial burden of passing the bar led Kelly to a decision that would later change her path.
She's mourning her mothers recent passing at the cemetery when she stumbles into Randall. That chance encounter leads to an affair and buried secrets are exposed.
Randall is married to Anne who is campaigning for the Democratic state primary election. They "adopted" Tessa when they couldn't conceive.
Anne has idiosyncrasies that will make you wring your hands and pull out your hair. She seriously needs professional help!
There is love, romance, heartbreak, old wounds and new beginnings. I just wish I'd read when it was originally published, would have liked more. The concept was no longer new to me, it was predictable and I guessed the plot too early. I appreciated the authors sensitivity and enjoyed her writing style.
The financial burden of passing the bar led Kelly to a decision that would later change her path.
She's mourning her mothers recent passing at the cemetery when she stumbles into Randall. That chance encounter leads to an affair and buried secrets are exposed.
Randall is married to Anne who is campaigning for the Democratic state primary election. They "adopted" Tessa when they couldn't conceive.
Anne has idiosyncrasies that will make you wring your hands and pull out your hair. She seriously needs professional help!
There is love, romance, heartbreak, old wounds and new beginnings. I just wish I'd read when it was originally published, would have liked more. The concept was no longer new to me, it was predictable and I guessed the plot too early. I appreciated the authors sensitivity and enjoyed her writing style.
June 10, 2022
I'm prejudiced.....I love Nancy Thayer's writing! Loved this book. I learned somewhat about what a lawyer has to go through to become a judge, and the responsibilities of being a courtroom judge.
Although from personal experience, I know all about getting the custody of your children, and arranging the visitations, I learned how different they could be from my own experiences.
Kelly MacLeod is the main character, and is a Massachusetts Family Court Judge. Anne Madison is also somewhat a main character. She is a state reformer that has hopes of one day being in the Senate. She has a 12 year old adopted daughter, Tessa. Tessa hates her and wants to live with her father, Randall, a doctor. Her parents are each very different kinds of people, and continually fight. Tessa is at the age where she is beginning to wonder who her birth mother is. She's also very worried about where she is going to live. She wants to live with her dad, and her grandfather, Mont, on his farm.
In the meantime, Randall randomly meets Kelly and they fall in love but....she doesn't disclose her occupation to him. The birth mother also appears. The book ended way before I wanted it to.
Although from personal experience, I know all about getting the custody of your children, and arranging the visitations, I learned how different they could be from my own experiences.
Kelly MacLeod is the main character, and is a Massachusetts Family Court Judge. Anne Madison is also somewhat a main character. She is a state reformer that has hopes of one day being in the Senate. She has a 12 year old adopted daughter, Tessa. Tessa hates her and wants to live with her father, Randall, a doctor. Her parents are each very different kinds of people, and continually fight. Tessa is at the age where she is beginning to wonder who her birth mother is. She's also very worried about where she is going to live. She wants to live with her dad, and her grandfather, Mont, on his farm.
In the meantime, Randall randomly meets Kelly and they fall in love but....she doesn't disclose her occupation to him. The birth mother also appears. The book ended way before I wanted it to.
July 23, 2019
I always enjoy reading a novel that is set in an area that I know, and that is true of this story. I am very familiar with the Boston area locations mentioned in this novel, even specific streets in Arlington, MA.
One huge coincidence, which is evident to the reader too soon, is at the center of this novel. It was hard for me to believe that this could possibly happen. Also, I think that the characters were described by the author in ways that were too "black or white." I am reading another Nancy Thayer now and hoping for more complex characterization.
One huge coincidence, which is evident to the reader too soon, is at the center of this novel. It was hard for me to believe that this could possibly happen. Also, I think that the characters were described by the author in ways that were too "black or white." I am reading another Nancy Thayer now and hoping for more complex characterization.
October 12, 2021
Read all of Nancy’s newer books and love them! Love the different relationships between women. Decide to read older books and not so interesting. Decided not to finish this one, but as I read along I liked it more and more although almost too much of a coincidence how it ended. In the end, it was a really good story!!
October 19, 2021
Great read!
Like all of Nancy Thayer's books, Custody did not disappoint! It was a little slow in the beginning, but then took off with a vengeance! I always feel when I read her books that I get to know these characters. Loved Kelly and Randall and am sorry this book is over! Would love to know if everything works out with Tessa!
Like all of Nancy Thayer's books, Custody did not disappoint! It was a little slow in the beginning, but then took off with a vengeance! I always feel when I read her books that I get to know these characters. Loved Kelly and Randall and am sorry this book is over! Would love to know if everything works out with Tessa!
February 3, 2024
Not a good book. I had to force myself to finish it. The plot was not believable and most of the characters were unlikeable. I also didn’t like how the authored flipped between characters in a chapter. You’d be reading about someone and in the next paragraph it would be about something totally different.
August 17, 2018
I love Nancy Thayer because she's a great storyteller and she fleshes out her characters so well that you feel as if you know them.
This topic is certainly relevant for many families today, but the added twist discovered at the end is a bonus. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
This topic is certainly relevant for many families today, but the added twist discovered at the end is a bonus. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
August 25, 2020
I'd rate this between a 2 and 3. I liked it but it was slow moving that I almost gave up on it. The ending was odd with Kelly being so understanding to Anne and Anne being very selfish. Also Anne had some serious issues that no one wanted to deal with.
June 18, 2017
Page Turner
I liked the characters and the storyline was fast paced. A very well written discourse about modern day life. Good clean read and very entertaining.
I liked the characters and the storyline was fast paced. A very well written discourse about modern day life. Good clean read and very entertaining.
August 24, 2017
An interesting story about the Family Court system in Massachusetts. Except the author is highly misinformed in what a GAL actually does. She thinks they are psychiatrists. ;o(
September 6, 2018
So many sides and issues to consider when deciding the fate of a child in a custody battle...
Kelly McLeod is the family court judge who faces these factors as she makes decisions.
Kelly McLeod is the family court judge who faces these factors as she makes decisions.
May 13, 2019
Great book! Custody, it's a sad, heart-wrenching matter for all involved. Throw in a few surprises and this became a real page turner.
It had me cheering at the end and lightened my heart.
It had me cheering at the end and lightened my heart.
July 31, 2019
One of my favorite authors. A book I didn’t want to put down with a surprising ending
December 29, 2019
Ended up as a DNF because I really just disliked the characters.
March 18, 2020
A few improbable twists but enjoyable characters.
July 31, 2020
I think Tessa should have had more of a say in the divorce matter. Also, did Anne’s scratching issues just go away? Great story but lots of plot holes towards the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
December 14, 2020Enjoyable, light, romantic read..
February 11, 2021
Many twists in this custody battle
This story has so many unexpected plots that somehow manage to all merge together for an unexpected outcome for everyone.
This story has so many unexpected plots that somehow manage to all merge together for an unexpected outcome for everyone.
April 15, 2021
I am reading all of Nancy’s books. I was dreading reading Custody, since I thought it would probably be sad at least for one parent. BUT, by far, one of her best stories! Loved it. Thank you Nancy
September 20, 2021
So far this is my favorite book of Thayer's, and I've read probably 20 of hers!
February 5, 2023
Nancy Thayer
She never disappoints. I have read a few of her books now, and this one taught me a few things. I'm on to another one of hers now.
Thank you
Nancy Thayer.
She never disappoints. I have read a few of her books now, and this one taught me a few things. I'm on to another one of hers now.
Thank you
Nancy Thayer.
May 26, 2023
I get some of my best quotes from Nancy Thayer - love the way she writes. Great story.
August 28, 2023
Although it did keep my interest, it was ridiculously predictable. Also, there seemed to be characters that seemed to serve no purpose.
May 8, 2014
When Kelly MacLeod becomes a Massachusetts Family Court judge, she is determined to do what is right. Young, brilliant, and engaged to the perfect guy, she feels truly ready to begin her new appointment. With all her dreams coming true, Kelly never envisions what might go wrong...
Then a chance meeting with a man in a cemetery awakens an unexpected passion in Kelly. Agreeing not to reveal their names to each other, Kelly and the stranger begin an illicit affair.
Anne Madison, a respected state reformer with political aspirations, wants custody of her twelve-year-old adopted daughter, Tessa. So does Anne's soon-to-be ex-husband Randall Madison - a prominent physician. Tessa is caught in the middle of her parents emotional tug-of-war.
On the brink of adolescence, Tessa is just beginning to discover her own sexuality. She also wonders who her birth mother is. Troubled by this and pulled in too many directions, she tries to please those she loves at a cost that just might be too high.
Kelly MacLeod gets drawn into this family's legal and personal tribulations. How does one effectively balance public service with private desires? What does it mean - legally and emotionally - to be a family? How does someone move past anger and sorrow toward compassion and wisdom? How do adults learn to temper their own wills with the best needs of the child? What is right when one's own deepest emotions clash with the law?
Kelly's involvement with this particular case leads her to question issues within her own personal life. In order to answer these myriad questions, Kelly must grapple with her career as a judge and assess her mysterious new lover, her own past, and the complications of many kinds of love.
In my opinion, this book was very well-written and the plot was certainly engrossing. However, while I enjoyed reading it, I found the story to be quite a stretch for the imagination. Overall, I give this book an A!
Then a chance meeting with a man in a cemetery awakens an unexpected passion in Kelly. Agreeing not to reveal their names to each other, Kelly and the stranger begin an illicit affair.
Anne Madison, a respected state reformer with political aspirations, wants custody of her twelve-year-old adopted daughter, Tessa. So does Anne's soon-to-be ex-husband Randall Madison - a prominent physician. Tessa is caught in the middle of her parents emotional tug-of-war.
On the brink of adolescence, Tessa is just beginning to discover her own sexuality. She also wonders who her birth mother is. Troubled by this and pulled in too many directions, she tries to please those she loves at a cost that just might be too high.
Kelly MacLeod gets drawn into this family's legal and personal tribulations. How does one effectively balance public service with private desires? What does it mean - legally and emotionally - to be a family? How does someone move past anger and sorrow toward compassion and wisdom? How do adults learn to temper their own wills with the best needs of the child? What is right when one's own deepest emotions clash with the law?
Kelly's involvement with this particular case leads her to question issues within her own personal life. In order to answer these myriad questions, Kelly must grapple with her career as a judge and assess her mysterious new lover, her own past, and the complications of many kinds of love.
In my opinion, this book was very well-written and the plot was certainly engrossing. However, while I enjoyed reading it, I found the story to be quite a stretch for the imagination. Overall, I give this book an A!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews